Weekly
news
Term 3, Week 10
MISSION STATEMENT
To serve in a Christ-centred community, connected with families, nurturing students to grow in a love of learning and flourish in every part of life.
VIsion
Shaping faithful hearts and curious minds for a life of purpose.
Principal’s Report
What a fast term this has been! It is hard to believe that this is our final newsletter for Term 3, with the end of the school year already beginning to appear on the horizon.
As I reflect on the term, I am incredibly grateful for the many opportunities we have shared as a school community. Some highlights for me have included:
- Having our Year 1 and 2 students enjoy their refreshed learning spaces. The natural light that the sliding glass doors onto the oval provide, fills me with joy!
- Classes leading us in worship during our Chapel services
- Celebrating 100 Days of Kindergarten and seeing our youngest students dressed as “older people”
- Book Week and our Book Parade, celebrating the joy and wonder that books bring
- Staff meetings focused on strengthening Teaching and Learning
- Having our school represented at the Eisteddfod in both Choir and Dance
- Students developing new skills through Red Ball Tennis lessons
- Our K-1 Athletics Carnival, which was a wonderful celebration of participation and community
As always, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve in this community and am continually reminded of the generosity, commitment and support of our families and staff. Together, we create a place where students are known, valued and encouraged to thrive.
As we head into the holiday break, I encourage everyone to make time for rest and renewal. In a world that is often busy and demanding, God reminds us of the importance of slowing down and finding rest in Him. Rest is not simply about stopping our work; it is about creating space to reconnect with God, spend time with those we love and be refreshed for the season ahead.
Jesus offers this invitation in Matthew 11:28:
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
My prayer is that these holidays provide an opportunity for your family to experience that rest, whether through spending time together, enjoying the outdoors or simply taking a slower pace for a little while.
Working Bee
If you have not already done so, please save the date for our upcoming Working Bee on Friday 30 October from 4:15pm to 6:30pm. A light dinner of sausages in bread and refreshments will be provided for our wonderful volunteers. We would love to see as many families as possible come along and help support our school.
Staffing Announcements
At the end of this year, we will be saying farewell to two valued members of our staff team, Miss Emma-Lee Guymer and Mrs Robyn Richards. Emma-Lee has felt God calling her in a new direction and will be pursuing other opportunities, while Robyn has decided to step away from full-time teaching and will continue her connection with our school in a casual teaching capacity. We are incredibly grateful for the contribution both have made to our school community. Their dedication, care and service have enriched the lives of students, families and colleagues, and they will be greatly missed. We will have the opportunity to formally acknowledge and thank Emma-Lee, Robyn and Darren Wright for their service as part of our end-of-year celebrations.
We look forward to welcoming students back for the final term of 2026 on Tuesday 13 October. I will be on leave at the commencement of Term 4 and look forward to returning to school on Thursday 22 October following a special family trip to the UK to celebrate my sister-in-law’s wedding.
Thank you again for your partnership throughout the term. I pray that you enjoy a safe, restful and refreshing break with family and friends, and that you return ready for all that God has planned for the final term of the year.
Blessings,
Hollie Kinning
Principal
Deputy Principal’s Report
Pupil Free Day – Friday 25th September & Monday 12th October
A reminder that Friday is a pupil free day due to the Parent Teacher Interviews being held all day. We look forward to seeing everyone back on Tuesday 13th October.
Wagga Show results
This year it was wonderful to enter so many of our students into either the handwriting or art section of the show. The following students received recognition for their entries;
Handwriting
Year 2 Sophie Riordan 1st place
Year 2 Archie Groth 3rd place
Year 3 Amelia Fowler 3rd place
Year 4 Leah Jeong 1st place
Year 4 Rivaan Khatri Highly Commended
Year 4 Isabelle Groth 2nd place
Year 5 Jack Nicholas Highly Commended
Year 5 Mia Jith 1st place and Champion
Year 6 Pippa Clark 2nd place
Artwork
Year 3 Skylar Keemink 3rd place
Grandparents Day
Grandparents’ Day is coming!
We can’t wait to celebrate our wonderful grandparents and special elderly friends! On Friday 16 October from 9am -11am, our school will be buzzing with excitement as we honour the love, wisdom and steady encouragement our older generations bring to our lives.
We’ll begin the morning with a special Chapel service, followed by classroom activities. Afterwards, our special elderly friends will enjoy a delicious morning tea.
Please complete this form to RSVP for the event by Tuesday 13th October.
Grandparents’ Day – Friday 16 October 2026 (fill out form)
Lost Property
Claim Your Items!
Have you lost a water bottle, hoodie, or other personal items recently? Our Lost & Found is overflowing! Students are encouraged to check the Lost & Found area in the office and claim any missing belongings. Items not claimed by Week 2 Term 4 will be taken to the Uniform Shop. Don’t miss your chance to be reunited with your items!
Footy/Sports Colour Day
Last Friday was a sea of sporty jerseys, jackets, shorts and even socks! Thank you for the great effort and generous donations. We raised $394 for the Fight Cancer Foundation which supports children with cancer.
Donations of old magazines
If you have any magazines at home that you no longer need, we would greatly appreciate if you could send them into the office.
Emma Davenport
Deputy Principal
Curriculum Corner
State Finals - Tournament of Minds 2026
Last weekend, our two Tournament of Minds teams travelled to Sydney to represent Lutheran School Wagga Wagga at the 2026 Tournament of Minds State Finals, held at the University of New South Wales.
It was an exciting, challenging and extremely busy weekend for our students. On Sunday morning, the teams began their three-hour State Finals challenge at 9.00 am, working collaboratively under significant time pressure to develop a creative solution to a completely new challenge. After three intense hours of planning, problem-solving and preparation, the students then had several hours before taking to the stage to present their solutions to the judges. During this time, both teams also completed their Spontaneous Challenge, which required them to think quickly, communicate effectively and work together under pressure.
Throughout the entire experience, our students were outstanding representatives of our school. They demonstrated remarkable perseverance, creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills, while supporting and encouraging one another through the many demands of the competition.
We were especially thrilled when our Social Sciences team (TOMtastics) was awarded Honours, placing second at the NSW State Final. This is an exceptional achievement at this level of competition and a wonderful recognition of the team’s creativity, commitment and hard work.
While the result was certainly worth celebrating, we were equally proud of both teams for the way they conducted themselves throughout the three days. Their behaviour, resilience and positive attitude were exemplary. They approached every challenge with maturity and determination and represented Lutheran School Wagga Wagga with pride.
A heartfelt thank you must go to our Tournament of Minds families, who have so generously supported our teams throughout their entire TOM journey. From practices and preparation to travelling to Sydney for the State Finals, your encouragement, flexibility and commitment have been greatly appreciated. This experience would not have been possible without your wonderful support.
Thank you also to Ms Davenport for her invaluable support throughout the three days. Her assistance, encouragement and commitment to our students helped make an extremely busy weekend such a positive and memorable experience.
It was a massive weekend for both teams and a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary Tournament of Minds journey. We could not be prouder of their performances, their behaviour and, most importantly, the way they handled themselves throughout the entire State Finals experience.
Congratulations to all our Tournament of Minds students on an outstanding 2026 season. What a wonderful way to finish our TOM journey!
Helen Whatmuff
Inclusive Learning Lens
Understanding Dyslexia: What It Is - and Isn't
Dyslexia is a Specific Learning Disorder with impairment in reading. It can make it harder for children to read words accurately and fluently and to spell. Dyslexia affects children in different ways and to different degrees. It is not related to intelligence, effort or motivation. A child with dyslexia may have strong speaking, thinking, creative and problem-solving skills while finding reading and spelling more challenging. Dyslexia is also not simply about seeing letters backwards or having a vision problem. Australian research and clinical guidance describe dyslexia as a persistent difficulty with learning and using accurate and fluent word reading and spelling skills, despite appropriate learning opportunities and instruction. (Australian Psychological Society, Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care)
Dyslexia is not caused by laziness, poor parenting or not reading enough at home, and children do not simply grow out of it. However, not every child who experiences reading difficulty has a Specific Learning Disorder. Identification involves considering a child’s reading and spelling development, the teaching and support they have received, their response to effective instruction and other relevant factors. Dyslexia can occur alongside other learning or developmental differences, although these are separate conditions. Australian research highlights the importance of recognising reading difficulties early and providing evidence-based support promptly, rather than waiting for children to fall further behind. (Australian Education Research Organisation, Australian Psychological Society)
In the classroom, teachers support students with dyslexia through clear, carefully planned and explicit literacy teaching. This includes teaching children how sounds link to letters, how to read unfamiliar words, how to spell and how to develop vocabulary, reading fluency and comprehension. Teachers regularly monitor each child’s progress and adjust instruction and practice activities as needed. This approach is often called Structured Literacy, which involves teaching reading and spelling skills in a systematic, cumulative and organised way. Australian guidance and research support explicit, systematic phonics and structured approaches, particularly for students who continue to experience difficulties with reading and spelling. (Australian Education Research Organisation, Tasmanian Government)
Teachers may also make reasonable adjustments so students can show what they know without reading and writing difficulties creating unnecessary barriers. These adjustments might include extra time, audiobooks, text-to-speech tools, speech-to-text tools, reduced copying from the board, alternative ways to record ideas and opportunities to practise in a small group. These supports do not lower expectations. Instead, they provide fair access to learning while students continue to receive focused literacy instruction. With effective teaching, encouragement and appropriate support, students with dyslexia can make progress and grow in confidence as learners. (Australian Government Department of Education, Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care)
Lauren Forsyth
Learning Enhancement Coordinator
Wellbeing Window
Wellbeing During the School Holidays
The school holidays are a wonderful opportunity for families to slow down, reconnect and recharge together. While routines may look a little different over the break, maintaining a balance of rest, physical activity and family connection can have a positive impact on everyone’s wellbeing.
Simple activities such as visiting a local park, going for a family walk, playing board games, cooking together or sharing a daily highlight can help strengthen relationships and create positive memories. Encouraging children to spend time outdoors, be active and take breaks from screens can also support their emotional and physical wellbeing.
The holidays are also a great time to practise gratitude and mindfulness. Taking a few moments each day to notice something you’ve enjoyed, appreciated or learned can help children develop positive wellbeing habits that last beyond the school break.
Importantly, remember that wellbeing doesn’t require elaborate plans. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give our children is our time, attention and presence. We hope all families enjoy a safe, restful and joyful holiday period and return feeling refreshed for the term ahead.
Callum Gardner
Pastoral Care Leader
Chaplain's Chatter
Philippians 4 - Turn your worries into prayers
The Resilience Project reminds us of something that spiritual leaders have told us for thousands of years: “When we practise something consistently, it becomes a habit.” Just as practising reading helps us become better readers, and practising sport helps us improve our skills, Paul reminds us that practising turning our worries into prayers can help us grow stronger on the inside.
Everybody worries, but no one needs to carry those worries alone. In Philippians 4, Paul encourages us to talk to God about our worries. We can share with God exactly how we are feeling, the good things in our lives as well as the difficult things. When we do that, God’s peace can fill our hearts and minds, bringing comfort and support when life feels challenging.
Paul also writes that when we turn our worries into prayers, we become people who focus on “the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.” Choosing to notice kindness, celebrate what is good, and look for moments of beauty becomes another habit that can help our hearts and minds grow.
As families, we can help each other build these habits. Turning our worries into prayers and choosing to notice kindness and beauty can begin with simple questions at mealtimes or bedtime, such as: “What is one worry we can share with God today?”, “What was your favourite part of today?”, or “What kind or thoughtful acts did you notice today?” These small conversations can make a big difference.
The Resilience Project website has a Family Hub https://theresilienceproject.com.au/family-hub-1/ with simple activities and practices that can help families build healthy habits, notice acts of kindness, practise empathy, and grow in gratitude. Small daily practices of prayer and conversation create opportunities to build habits that can support us every day.
When we become well practised at turning our worries into prayers and noticing kindness and beauty around us, we grow in resilience. Over time, prayer becomes a habit, and we learn to trust that God is always listening, always caring, and always walking alongside us.
Finance
School Fees
Please Note: Term 3 fees are now due (for families not on a current direct debit).
September – direct debit dates:
Weekly: Thursday: 3, 10, 17 & 24th September
Fortnightly: Thursday: 10 & 24th September
Monthly/Term: Wednesday 30th September (monthly debit)
October – direct debit dates:
Weekly: Thursday: 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29th October
Fortnightly: Thursday: 8 & 22nd October
Monthly: Wednesday 28th October
Any changes to bank accounts or credit cards please let me know as this could result in a payment being declined.
If a payment is declined this can be paid either through direct deposit, credit card over the phone, or in person at the office.
Statements can be found on Parent lounge.
Any queries can be email to jhausfeld@lpsww.nsw.edu.au call 69238100 or pop into the office and see me Monday – Friday between 8am – 2pm.
Jenny Hausfeld
Payroll/Finance Administrator
P&F News
What a HUGE term it has been and with Spring Fair just around the corner, Term 4 is ramping up to be the same.
We are always grateful for our school community and the support it gives to our fundraising events so that P&F can put back into the school. Term 3 saw P&F purchase two Chromebook charging dock carts for the new Year 2 classrooms and we’re told they have arrived and the classrooms are complete.
🌸 SPRING FAIR 🌸
🎉 ONLY 6 WEEKS TO GO! 🎉
When: Saturday, 7 November 2026
The countdown is officially on to our Spring Fair and we can’t wait for a fantastic day of fun, food, games and entertainment for the whole school community!
There’s plenty happening behind the scenes to bring the Fair to life, but we still need YOU! 🙌
If you haven’t put your hand up 🙋to volunteer yet, now is the time. Whether you can spare an hour or want to donate some items, every little bit makes a huge difference.
Six weeks to go… let’s make this our biggest and best Spring Fair yet! 🎈🎟️
🥭🥭MANGOES 🥭🥭
It’s mango time again!
Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to kick it off than with a tray of delicious, juicy mangoes!
For just $30 per 7kg tray, you can stock up on a summer favourite while supporting our school.
Orders can be placed through the Flexischools app, or pop into the school office.
Get your orders in before 22 October to make sure you don’t miss out! Delivery expected late November/early December.
SPRING FAIR MEETING
Our next Spring Fair meeting will take place on Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 7pm via Zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82422056459. The link can be found in the School Calendar and will also be posted in both the P&F and Spring Fair WhatsApp group chats. All are welcome to join.
WhatsApp – if you would like to join our dedicated Spring Fair WhatsApp group, please send a text to 0421 442 218.
NEXT P&F MEETING
Our next P&F meeting will take place on Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 7pm in the Staffroom.
We would love to see as many parents and carers as possible. If you cannot attend in person, please feel free to join in via Zoom, https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84976157037
the link can also be found in the School Calendar. We will also follow the P&F meeting with a Spring Fair update.
We wish all families and the wider school community a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. If you do find yourself stuck for holiday ideas, why not take some time to start planning your child’s Agricultural Show creation? Photographers, green thumbs, bakers and Lego masters unite! The Ag Show is waiting for you!
Safe holidays to all.
Jodie Graham
Chair
Library
Library Books
If your child still has Lutheran School Library books at home please return them as soon as possible so the library can be reshelved and stocked ready for Term 4 borrowing.
Borrowing next term will finish in Week 7 so that stock take can be undertaken.
Sports Desk
Year 4 Touch Gala Day
On Tuesday 8th September, Year 4 competed at the Touch Gala Day at Jubilee Park. All students had a fantastic day improving their skills and demonstrating great sportsmanship. Thank you to the staff and parent volunteers for assisting on the day.
Year 2 Boys T-Ball Gala Day
On Friday 11th September, Year 2 boys competed at the T-Ball Boys Gala Day held at French Fields. Students participated positively throughout the day and enjoyed developing their skills and confidence in T-Ball.
K-1 Athletics Carnival
On Thursday 17th September, we held our K-1 Athletics Carnival at school. Students completed 8 rotational activities, ball games, running races, and relays. The students had a great day competing in their houses. Thank you to all staff for their help and the Year 6 house captains for assisting throughout the day.
2026 Athletics House Champions
After adding the house points from the K-1 Athletics Carnival and the 2-6 Carnival held earlier this year, the overall House Champions for the Athletics Carnival is Red Hill. Congratulations to all who contributed and participated.
Year 6 Cricket Gala Day
On Monday 21st September, we sent 3 mixed Year 6 cricket teams to the Wagga Schools Gala Day. Students enjoyed the day competing against other schools and strengthening their skills. Lutheran performed very well, placing 2nd, 4th, and 5th overall.
Eliza Smith
PE Teacher/Sports Coordinator
Stage In The Spotlight
Kindergarten Wiradjuri Walking Tour
On Thursday 10 September, Kindergarten enjoyed a memorable day of learning beyond the classroom. Guided by Mark Sadler, students participated in a Wiradjuri walking tour, deepening their understanding of local culture, history and the importance of caring for Country.
Following the walk, students enjoyed a picnic lunch and play at the Wagga Beach playground, making the most of the beautiful spring sunshine.
On our journey back to school, we also visited the Lutheran Church, where Pastor Dave welcomed us and helped students identify features of a church that we have been exploring in Christian Studies.
It was a wonderful day of learning, discovery and connection with our local community. The bus ride home was noticeably quieter than the trip there, with many happy and tired Kindergarten students reflecting on a fantastic day out!
OSHC
Other Information
Families leaving the school
Please note that one full term’s written notice is required if you are withdrawing your child from Lutheran School. We purchase learning materials based on projected enrolment numbers at least one term in advance.
Uniform Shop Orders
If you would like to purchase uniforms from the Uniform Shop, please email admin@lpsww.nsw.edu.au
We will email you once the order is ready to be picked up from the office. Thank you.
Final Notices
