Channel Newsletter | 10 September

From the Principal

Unconditional Love

Last Sunday we celebrated Father’s Day, and the theme at my church was unconditional love.

Our pastor spoke on the parable of the prodigal son. In the story, the father shows unconditional love to both his children. He welcomed back the son who left, no matter what he had done, and he continued to love the son who stayed home, even though that son felt he deserved his father’s love more because of his consistent hard work. The message was clear: God’s love isn’t earned; it is freely given.

At church, the pastor invited a few people to share their own experiences of unconditional love. One little girl simply said, “When my grandparent came to visit.” What a beautiful picture of love in action.

Grandparents bring something truly special into the lives of children. They share a unique wisdom, patience, encouragement, and love that is often unconditional. They help create cherished memories, pass on a legacy of faith, and strengthen family bonds. They are indeed a blessing from God.

That’s why we are so excited to celebrate Grandparents’ Day, which this year falls just a few days after our school production. You may wonder why it is scheduled so close together. The reason is simple: we want to give all grandparents, many of whom travel long distances, even interstate, the chance to share in both of these special moments with their grandchildren. They will be able to see them shine on stage and also enjoy time with them in the classroom.

Of course, we recognise that not every child has grandparents who can be physically present. Distance, illness, death, or broken relationships can sometimes make this difficult. Yet, in God’s kindness, He often provides others who step into that role. That may be family members, friends, or members of your church community who show the same unconditional love.

As we prepare to celebrate, we warmly invite not only grandparents but also those special friends in your child’s life who embody the love and care of a grandparent. Together, let’s give thanks for these precious relationships and for the unconditional love of our Heavenly Father, who welcomes each of us into His family.

Margaret Louw - Principal

Removal of Trees

Over the next few days, you may notice the removal of several large gum trees from the front oval, along the footpath between the school and the church.

There are two main reasons for this:

Safety: Gum trees can drop large limbs without warning, which makes them unsuitable for a school environment. We are gradually removing these trees and will replace them with more appropriate species in the future.
Planning for a staff car park: We are working towards creating a gravel car park along this boundary. This will help reduce the number of staff cars parked on the street and free up more spaces in the church car park for families.

Once the car park is complete and the oval has been fenced, new trees will be planted to provide both shade and climbing opportunities for students.

The Kingborough Council has approved the removal of four gum trees, which we anticipate will take place later this week, possibly on Friday. We will do our best to avoid disruption to school drop-off and pick-up times, but please be mindful that some work may still be in progress.

Prep News

In Science this term, the Prep class has been exploring the properties of different materials and how they are used in our world. We began by sorting materials based on how they feel (light or heavy, soft or hard, stretchy or pliable) before investigating with hands-on activities.

We tested the strength of different materials by conducting a science experiment using marbles and buckets. The children also enjoyed linking their learning to the story of The Three Little Pigs, where we used natural materials to build small shelters and houses.

We also explored which materials are most effective for providing shade and keeping us cool. Through these experiences, children have become more aware of the materials in their everyday lives and have enjoyed noticing what different things are made from.

We have also reflected on how God has created all materials with a purpose, and we are learning how to be good stewards of these resources.

Mikaela Schenk - Prep Teacher

A few weeks ago, thirty talented Year 3 - 6 students from Channel Christian School proudly participated in the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee, joining tens of thousands of students from across Australia in this exciting challenge. Our students demonstrated outstanding spelling ability, quick thinking, and perseverance under pressure. Their collective results reflect not only their individual dedication but also the strength of our school’s literacy program, which continues to nurture confident and capable learners.

We are especially proud to celebrate Louie V and Amira D, who achieved exceptional results and represented our school at the Tasmanian State Finals on Tuesday. Their commitment, determination, and enthusiasm are an inspiration to their peers and a credit to themselves, their families, and the Channel Christian School community.

Sean Bint - Year 3/4 Teacher

Oliebollen Festival - THIS Saturday

Due to a busy week with the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Performances, there will be NO Channel Rhythm Jumpers on Tuesday 16 September.

CST Employment Opportunity

Applications are invited from suitably qualified practising Christians for the position of Administration Officer (currently located at the Christian Schools Tasmania Office in Hobart).

This is a part-time to full-time position for 30.4 - 38 hours per week (0.8 FTE - 1.0 FTE).

For further information or to apply for this position or other current positions within CST schools, please refer to the Christian Schools Tasmania website.

Prayer Wall

As the performance days are coming closer, we continue to pray for the students. The intensity of rehearsals is increasing, the pressure is building and sometimes the children need to make changes and adaptations quickly. That’s show business. Please pray for stamina to the end, good health and a continued joy and excitement for this opportunity.
Pray for expecting mums and their families waiting for the gift of new life.
Be thankful for the unconditional love God shows us continuously. May this love shine through us to all people God places on our path.

School Calendar

SEPTEMBER
16 | NO Channel Rhythm Jumpers
17 - 18 | School Production
22 | Grandparents’ Day
26 Footy Fun Day
26 | End of Term 3

OCTOBER
13 | First Day of Term 4
15 - 17 | Year 3/4 Camp at Blue Lagoon
23 | Show Day Public Holiday
24 | Student Free Day

SCHOOL CALENDAR

School Reminders

Soccer Tops

All soccer tops need to be returned, clean and in good order, to the school office. A fee may be charged for a no return or damaged top.

Updated Handbooks

We have updated our Handbooks. You can download and read a copy via the Parents page on our website.

Facebook Page

To see all the latest photos and updates in the life of the school please visit and like our Facebook page.

Your Feedback is Welcome

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