Term 1 March Newsletter
-
Principal Message
-
Vice Principal Message
-
HADITH
-
Primary News
-
ELC News
-
7 Fun Maths Facts (Yes, Maths Can be Fun Too!)
-
Restorative Practices for Secondary Students
-
EPIC Martial Arts
-
EPIC Careers Newsletter- News, Events and Resources
-
EPIC Pastoral Care and Wellbeing News
-
ELC Learning and Development
-
ELC Learning and Development
-
Students of the Week
Principal Message
END OF TERM 1 – 2024
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Term 1 of the 2024 Academic Year is slowly coming to a close. As usual it has been an extremely busy 10 weeks of schooling with the students involved in a wide array of learning, both in and outside of the classroom. Some of the learning that has taken place outside the classroom has involved the following:
· Grade 1 & 2 Swimming
· Opening of the Breakfast Club
· Year 7 - 10 Self Defence classes
· MAT Life Skills Program
· Himilo Homework club
· Lunchtime soccer games
· No Bull lunchtime activities
· International Women’s Day Staff & Senior Girls High Tea
· Year 6 District Summer Sports
· Islamic Book & Gift fair
· Victorian Careers and Employment Expo
· Healthy Harold – Primary
· Year 9 & 10 Sports Carnival
· 14th Quran Memorisation Competition
· Year 7 Humanities Excursion
Term 1 Interim - Reports
The staff are currently working on completing their feedback for the children in their classes, and all parents will have access to these as we come to the end the term. An interim report will provide our parents/guardians with a brief overview on how their child/ren have been coping with school life throughout this term.
As a parent it is important that you reflect on your child’s effort for this term, and that you acknowledge any successes and discuss areas of concern and improvement that can occur from the beginning of Term two. Remember, learning starts in the home and then as teachers we are there to educate your children to become successful and cooperative community members.
Ramadan Mubarak
Ramadan is a beautiful and special month here at East Preston Islamic College. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar, as it is the month when the Holy Qur’an has been revealed. At EPIC, this is no different, and the holy month is observed with reduced timings as well as being cognisant of the faith-based requirements of our college community.
Ramadan is when our entire community comes to better themselves whether it is by keeping the fasts or helping the poor. During Ramadan, our students and their families are required to abstain from eating and drinking between the hours of sunrise and sunset. It is traditional to break the fast by eating dates, a proven healthy snack, at Iftar (evening meal) which is normally eaten with friends and family. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam; basic acts considered mandatory for Muslims. It teaches our students and their families to put themselves in the shoes of those less fortunate and encourages participation in charitable activities. Laylatul Qadr falls during the last ten days of the Holy Month, and this is the time when prayers are equivalent to 1,000 months of worship.
Besides reduced school hours for the special timings during Ramadan, EPIC provides an environment ensuring the well-being of students, especially one where they can feel safe to practice their religion.
As Ramadan has close relationship with the Quran, at EPIC students revive their connection with the Quran whether through reading or contemplating. During Islamic Studies lessons over the Holy Month, students are encouraged to research how Ramadan is celebrated in different cultures and students practice their Quran recitation and participate in a recitation competition. In Arabic lessons students are encouraged to talk about how Ramadan is marked within their own cultures and communities.
We wish you all “Ramadan Mubarak.”
Harmony Week:
Monday 18 March to Sunday 24 March is known as “Harmony Week” and orange is the colour chosen to represent the week. The theme for this year is “Everyone Belongs.”
Thursday 21 March marks annual Harmony Day. Harmony Day is an Australian Commonwealth Government program and coincides with the United Nations International Day for the elimination of Racial Discrimination. It is a day to celebrate Australia’s diversity. It is a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home, from the traditional owners of this land
to those who have come from many countries around the world. We are extremely lucky to live together in the greatest country on earth.
By participating in Harmony Day activities, EPIC students learn and understand how all Australians from diverse backgrounds equally belong to this nation and make it a better place.
Instagram:
It is imperative that parents are aware of their child’s internet usage at home. As a parent and educator, I am always amazed with how advancements in technology have helped around the house and with student learning. Technology is a wonderful tool but there are legalities to which students should adhere. I have attached a flyer on “Instagram” from our new safeguarding partner “National Online Safety,” I hope that you take the time to read it and familiarise yourself with the risks involved with this digital platform.
Student Bus Travel:
It is important to remind students who travel by bus to and from school that safety and sensible behaviour are a must at all times. Unacceptable behaviour whilst travelling on the bus may lead to the driver being distracted and be the cause of a serious accident. I am asking all parents to remind their children of the importance of appropriate behaviour on the bus and report any unsafe conduct. This also includes crossing roads at bus stops. Thank you in anticipation of your support in this matter.
National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN)
Our Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students have been participating in the Australia wide Literacy and numeracy assessment program. NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that students are learning through their regular school curriculum.
Students sit assessments in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar, and punctuation) and numeracy. The questions assess content linked to the Australian Curriculum: English and Mathematics.
All government and non-government education authorities contribute to the development of NAPLAN test materials.
The students at EPIC began their NAPLAN program on Wednesday 13 March and they will conclude on Tuesday 19 March.
Set Times for Home Learning:
Our Parents:
Many students come home from school and end up just waiting until they might ‘feel’ like doing schoolwork. Or else they drag everything out over the whole night. A much better way is each night have set allocated times for home learning. Many students find that learning in 20–30-minute blocks work well for them.
During this time students should do homework first, then work on any assignments or upcoming tests, then use the rest of the time allocated for schoolwork to complete independent learning activities such as reviewing work they find difficult, making study notes or doing practice questions to build their skills. All distractions should be removed during this time, so students learn to focus for 20–30-minute blocks of time. It is a great idea to make a timetable of the home learning and place it on the fridge, so everyone is clear when students are focusing and when they are doing other activities or having free time.
Our Students:
Some of the benefits for students of having set times allocated for home learning are:
· You are more likely to learn at home if you know when to start and when to end.
· You will be more effective when you remove distractions and learn to focus for 20–30-minute blocks.
· In all the times NOT allocated to schoolwork you can do whatever you like without feeling guilty about it.
· Having set times stops arguments between students and parents as everyone has agreed when the timeslots allocated to students will be.
· You know that you are definitely doing enough work for school.
· Keeping your home learning and personal life separate means you will be able to manage all of the distractions in your life and still complete your work for school.
Thank you to all our students, families and staff for a successful term and I hope that you all have an enjoyable and safe holiday break. It is a time to relax, wind down and spend some time with family and friends.
We look forward to seeing everyone back at school for the first day of TERM 2 – MONDAY 15 April 2024.
Mr Guy Cassarchis
Principal
Vice Principal Message
EXCITING RAMADAN ACTIVITIES AT EPIC
Assalamu Alaikum Dear EPIC Community,
It brings me immense joy to witness the beginning of Ramadan with all its blessings and opportunities for spiritual growth within our school community. As we immerse ourselves in this holy month, I'm delighted to share some of the highlights and activities that have been unfolding at East Preston Islamic College.
As we journey through the blessed month of Ramadan, I am delighted to witness the enthusiasm and engagement of our students and teachers in various activities that deepen our connection to this sacred time. Among these activities, the Quran Competition stands out as a shining example of dedication and commitment to our faith.
Our students have been diligently preparing to showcase their memorisation and recitation skills, pouring their hearts and souls into mastering the holy verses of the Quran. It is truly heartwarming to witness their devotion to this noble cause, as they strive to embody the teachings of our faith. I am happy to announce that the winners of the Quran Competition will be bestowed with truly remarkable prizes, symbolising our appreciation for their tireless efforts and devotion.
In addition to our students' dedication, I extend my deepest gratitude to the parents for their unwavering support and guidance throughout the preparation process. Your encouragement, involvement, and prayers are invaluable contributions to the holistic development and success of our students, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.
Furthermore, our school has been adorned with the vibrant colours and decorations of the Ramadan season, courtesy of the Ramadan Class Decoration Competition. Students and teachers have come together to transform our classrooms and corridors into beautiful reflections of the spirit of Ramadan. The creativity and effort poured into these decorations are truly inspiring.
Last Friday, we had the pleasure of hosting the Teachers’ Ramadan Competition, which provided a delightful opportunity for our teachers to showcase their talents and competitive spirit. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Farhat Masood for her well-deserved victory, and I commend all participants for their enthusiasm and sportsmanship.
The secondary students had a wonderful time participating in an enriching Islamic Art and Calligraphy incursion. Led by a renowned calligraphy artist, they had the opportunity to delve into the intricate world of calligraphy and refine their skills in this timeless art form. The event provided students with a unique and hands-on experience, fostering an appreciation for Islamic culture and artistic expression.
I would like to seize this moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated Quran and Islamic Studies team for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in organising all the Ramadan activities.
Amidst the Ramadan activities, we have also been diligently carrying out the Year 3, 5, 7, and 9 NAPLAN tests. I express my sincere gratitude to our hardworking teachers, the teacher support team, and the IT team for their unwavering dedication in ensuring the smooth conduct of these assessments.
In our ongoing quest for excellence, I'm pleased to announce the addition of new teachers to our esteemed College. Despite the challenges posed by the current teacher shortage, we continue to attract highly experienced and passionate educators who share our vision for academic and moral excellence. With each passing day, we are taking significant strides towards achieving our goal of becoming the School of Choice in the broader Islamic community.
We are excited to showcase your children's memorable moments at school on our official social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. To do so, we kindly request your permission by signing the parental consent form, which will be sent to you via Compass. Your participation enables us to celebrate and share your child's achievements and experiences within our school community. Thank you for your ongoing cooperation and support.
With warm regards,
Hatice Mohamed
Vice Principal
HADITH
Virtue of Ramadan
مَنْ قَامَ رَمَضَانَ إِيمَانًا وَاحْتِسَابًا, غُفِرَ لَهُ مَا تَقَدَّمَ مِنْ ذَنْبِهِ
Whoever stands [for night prayer] in Ramadan out of faith and hope for reward will be forgiven his past sins.
Explanation:
In this hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) is encouraging us to offer prayers during the nights of Ramadan, commonly known as the Taraweeh prayers, and the great reward waiting for those who choose to do so.
Ramadan is a month full of blessings in which the doors of paradise are opened and the gates of hell are closed. One of the great blessings of this month is the opportunity to pray the Taraweeh prayers, which are offered between the Isha and Witr prayers. The Prophet (ﷺ) mentioned two things as conditions to obtain the reward attached to offering these prayers:
- The person must have faith – Meaning the person is a Muslim who believes in all of Islam’s tenets.
- Hope for reward – Meaning the person is hoping for reward from Allah for performing the Taraweeh prayers. The person is not doing it to be seen or rewarded by the people, rather, he/she is sincerely doing it for only Allah’s pleasure.
Then the Prophet (ﷺ) mentioned the result of those who fulfill the previous two conditions that all of their previous sins will be forgiven. It should be noted that this is in reference to only those types of sins which violate the rights of Allah and not other individuals. If the sins are of latter nature, then the person must seek forgiveness from Allah and right the wrongs committed against others by either compensating them for their lost rights or seeking their forgiveness. For example, if a person stole another’s wealth, then he/she must return it back to its rightful owner unless the victim forgoes the right and chooses instead to forgive the perpetrator.
The main lesson from this hadith is to take full advantage of the night prayers in Ramadan.
Primary News
Welcome the month of Ramadan with the heart filled with peace, harmony and joy. May the divine blessings of Allah protect and guide you all. The school is abuzz with the preparations of Ramadan as classes are beginning to be decorated and the upcoming Quran competition has all the students excited.
A reminder that during the month of Ramadan the college has shortened days. The school still begins at 8:30am and finishes at 2:10pm daily. Please ensure that you are there to pick up your children promptly at 2:10pm as the college also closes early on these days as well.
Upcoming events in the Primary School. Healthy Harold will come to our school during March and be running programs about friendships, respect and feelings with the students. The students from Years 3 to 6 will be having these sessions on one of the following days; 12th, 18th, 19th, 26th and 27th of March. Please make sure all forms and money are handed in before the due date. On March 18th to March 22nd, it is Harmony Week. On Thursday 21st March we will be having an assembly to celebrate Harmony Day where all parents are welcome. The students can dress in their Cultural Clothes or wear orange on the day.
Week 7 sees the beginning of NAPLAN where all students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 will be participating in writing, reading, language conventions and numeracy over four days starting on Wednesday. Please ensure that your child/ren have eaten and had water during Suhoor so that they will be able to concentrate during these assessments. Getting to school on time is important so that the students are not stressed before beginning these NAPLAN assessments. Thank you for your assistance and considerations during this time.
The Year 1s and Year 2s have been involved in a swimming program at Ivanhoe Aquatic Centre during Term 1 on Mondays and Tuesdays. The students have been engaged in developing their skills with swimming as well as involved in water safety activities. Term 2 the Year 3s, Year 4s and Year 5s will begin their 6 week swimming program. All forms and money MUST be handed in by Monday 25th March and no forms or money will be accepted after this date.
The Year 6 students have been involved in the District Summer Sports Program where they have had eight different schools come to our school or we have gone to their school to compete in Bat Tennis, Kanga Cricket, Rounders and Tee Ball. The students have been participating well and after week 6 these are where our teams are on the respective ladders.
Bat Tennis boys/Mixed – 7th Place
Bat Tennis Girls – 6th Place
Kanga Cricket 1 Boys/Mixed – 7th Place
Kanga Cricket 2 Boys/Mixed – 4th Place
Rounders Boys/Mixed – 2nd Place
Rounders Girls – 3rd Place
Tee Ball Boys/Mixed – 8th Place
Tee Ball Girls – 7th Place
Week 7 EPIC will be playing against St. John's Greek Orthodox College.
Ms Coryn Bretag(Head of Primary)
ELC News
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are thrilled to see how well our little ones are settling into kindergarten! As we embark on week 6, our focus remains on nurturing those important relationships and friendships that are forming within our classroom community.
It's been heartwarming to witness the growing confidence and comfort of each child as they become more familiar with our routines and classroom environment. We encourage you to continue supporting this process at home by discussing your child's experiences and reassuring them of your love and support.You can find many daily snapshots of your child's day at kindergarten on Class Dojo. Please use this as a tool to communicate with your children about their day.
Friendships are blossoming as the children spend more time together. Through various group activities and play, they are learning important social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and showing empathy towards one another. As educators, we are guiding them in navigating these interactions positively and fostering a sense of inclusivity and kindness.This week we have introduced our Kindergarten Values- each class is discussing the expectations we have of one another as we endeavour to show kindness, respect and Islamic manners to one another through out everything we do.
Reminders
Sunsmart The ELC now has hat pockets for every child. Please ensure you leave a hat labelled in your child's hat pocket each day to ensure they are safely meeting the ELC's sun safe requirements.
Water bottlesPlease ensure you pack a labelled water bottle for your child each day this ensures they have independent access to hydration throughout out the day.
Together, we will continue to create a nurturing and supportive environment where every child can thrive.
Warm regards,
Sally Whitbread(Head of ELC )
7 Fun Maths Facts (Yes, Maths Can be Fun Too!)
Did you know that Mathematics is not just all about boring numbers? Check these fun and interesting Maths facts here.
Mathematics is a subject dreaded by the majority of students (even adults). However, it is an irreplaceable part of academics because it is an intricate part of our lives, no matter which profession we are in or the kind of lifestyle we have. Maths involves understanding and working with numbers, shapes, and patterns. It helps in problem-solving and comprehending the world.
Math is applied in everyday tasks such as counting money, telling time, and measuring cloth sizes, etc. Maths consists of different operations. There are some basic ones like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, forming the foundation of arithmetic. Geometry focuses on shapes and their attributes, while algebra employs letters and symbols to represent numbers and solve equations. Then there’s the advanced Maths which also has a widespread presence, from constructing buildings to creating video games. It functions as a universal language, used by scientists, engineers, doctors, etc. Maths also serves as a tool for forecasting phenomena, like weather patterns and object movements. In this article, we have compiled together 10 FUN Maths facts for you to blow your minds.
Yes, Maths can be fun too. Just because it appears scary and boring does not mean that it actually is Complex. It is fun and easy once you get the concept right.
- Roman number zero
There is no Roman numeral for zero! Check the roman numerals of 10, 20, 30, 100, 500… you do not have a zero in roman numerals!
- The first ‘B’ is in 1 Billion
Yes, that’s right. When spelling down the numbers, it is not until we spell 1,000,000,000. 1 billion is the first time that the alphabet letter B appears.
- The first ‘A’ appears in 1000
The alphabet A does not appear anywhere from 0 until we reach the spelling of 1000. A much smaller surprise than the fact 1, right?
- Fun Number FOUR
FOUR is the only number which has the same number of alphabets in its spelling as the value of the digit i.e. FOUR.
- FORTY - The Alphabetical Number
If you check the spelling of 40 with attention, you will notice that the letters are arranged alphabetically. It is also the only number that has this feature!
- ONE - The Anti-Alphabetic Number
On the other hand of 40, is the number One. It is the polar opposite because it is the only number which spells in the descending Alphabetical order o-n-e.
- 2520 - The Smallest Divisible Number by Digits 1 to 10
Yes, 2520 is the first and hence, the smallest number that is divisible by all numbers from 1 to 10. Think of it, 2520 is a multiple of all 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10.
41 is prime
41+2 is prime
41+2+4 is prime
41+2+4+6 is prime
41+2+4+6+8 is prime
41+2+4+6+8+10 is prime
41+2+4+6+8+10+12 is prime
41+2+4+6+8+10+12+14 is prime
41+2+4+6+8+10+12+14+16 is prime
41+2+4+6+8+10+12+14+16+18 is prime
41+2+4+6+8+10+12+14+16+18+20 is prime
However, this pattern eventually fails. Do you know when?
Enjoy your Mid way of Term ONE
Emad Mehanni
Year 7 & 8 Coordinator(Acting head of Mathematics)
Restorative Practices for Secondary Students
SA
Dear Parents/Guardians,
I hope this message finds you well. As we navigate the journey of supporting our children's growth and development, it's essential to continually explore and implement strategies that foster their well-being and positive behavior. Today, I wanted to introduce you to the concept of restorative practices, which we believe can significantly contribute to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for our children.
Restorative practices are rooted in building and maintaining healthy relationships within our community. Rather than focusing solely on punitive measures for wrongdoing, restorative practices emphasize repairing relationships, and promoting accountability and empathy. These practices not only address conflicts and misconduct but also cultivate a culture of respect, empathy, and responsibility among our children.
Here are a few key principles of restorative practices that we aim to integrate into our community:
Community Building: We strive to create a sense of belonging and interconnectedness among students, parents, teachers, and staff. By fostering strong relationships and open communication, we create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.
Conflict Resolution: When conflicts arise, we encourage open dialogue and active listening to understand each other's perspectives. Rather than imposing punishments, we seek to find solutions collaboratively, focusing on repairing harm and restoring relationships.
Responsibility and Accountability: Restorative practices encourage individuals to take ownership of their actions and understand the impact they have on others. By holding ourselves accountable in a supportive environment, we promote personal growth and development.
Empathy and Understanding: Central to restorative practices is the cultivation of empathy and understanding. We encourage our children to consider the feelings and experiences of others, fostering compassion and empathy in their interactions.
As we embark on this journey of integrating restorative practices into our community, we invite your support and participation. Your involvement is crucial in creating a culture where our children feel safe, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Thank you for your continued partnership in creating a positive and nurturing environment for our children. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in their lives.
Warm regards,
Mr Selim Kayikci(Head of Secondary)
EPIC Martial Arts
Salamu Alaykum,
Term 1 has started, and we started it strong with enthusiasm and strength 💪 .
We have partnered with Siraj's Mixed Martial Arts to hold weekly classes for our students and Allahuma Barik, our students are impressing.
To equip them with the necessary skills and techniques, our students are learning how to protect themselves from in a range of combat scenarios. This will instil the confidence within our students to protect themselves in the real world and be as our prophet encouraged, 'a strong Muslim'.
This workshop also fosters the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood. Students engage in shared learning and create memories they will cherish for the years to come.
EPIC Careers Newsletter- News, Events and Resources
EPIC Careers Newsletter- News, Events and Resources
Dear Parents/Guardians,
Welcome to term 1! I’m honoured and delighted to support our senior school students in choosing their career pathways. Please read through the following important careers information, if you need further clarification, please drop into the Career’s Hub (Green Room) located in the EPIC Wellbeing HUB or book a time with me via TEAMS or send me an email via careers@epic.vic.edu.au
Year 12
Explore a Career
What is a Fintech Engineer?
‘Fintech’ is a portmanteau of ‘financial’ and ‘technology’, meaning these engineers blend expertise in programming and finance to create cutting-edge solutions for banking, investing, and digital payments.
What skills and strengths are needed?
Successful Fintech Engineers have a strong foundation in computer science and a range of programming languages. They use analytical thinking to understand complex financial systems; creativity to develop new software applications to improve the way we handle money digitally, and adaptability to keep pace with rapidly advancing technologies and changes in the finance industry.
What are the pathways?
University degrees in computer science, software engineering and related fields are a starting place. Double degrees combining engineering and commerce/finance are also an option.
Year 11
Attend the 2024 BiG Day In
BiG Day In events are for you if you’re in Year 9-12 . They give you the opportunity to explore careers in technology. Held on University campuses, you gain insight into ‘university life’ so you can make better informed decisions about your future.
Learn about courses, degrees, work experience, internships, apprenticeships and engage with hands-on demonstrations of awesome technology!
You’ll attend 7-8 sessions covering career paths, career opportunities, the latest developments, and the future of technology. In the breaks, you’ll visit exhibitor stands to speak with company and university representatives.
Victoria
RMIT Melbourne, 30 May 2024 www.thebigdayin.com.au/events
Year 10
Micro Mathematicians
Micro Mathematicians is an enrichment program for advanced Year 5 to 10 students with an interest in maths beyond the classroom. The program offers a range of free virtual and in-person workshops throughout the year and new workshops are continually being added.
Workshop information
The majority of in-person workshops are at the University of Melbourne Parkville Campus. Applicants from outside Melbourne metropolitan areas (e.g. regional Victoria or interstate) are given priority for virtual workshops. A mix of virtual and in-person workshops for students in years 7 to 10 (hybrid option not available).
Applications for term 1 workshops are now open and close 6 March 2024.
The program is:
- Virtual and in-person
- Free to attend
- Limited availability
- Applications required
- Hans-on and team-based
- Learner-centered and inquiry-based
What will I do?
You’ll not only extend your maths skills, but you’ll also develop skills in communication, collaboration, and literacy.
- Explore concepts beyond the classroom Learn about possible pathways and careers
- Work with passionate mathematicians and statisticians
Defence Work Experience Program
About the Defence Work Experience Program
The Defence Work Experience Program provides young Australians interested in Defence as a future career, the opportunity to sample life in Defence and learn more about the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the Australian Public Service (APS).
Defence work experience activities are designed to be hands on and interactive so that you can make informed career decisions.
Participants must be 15 years of age or over at the time of the placement.
How to Apply
Placements are advertised through the Defence Work Experience Program Jobs List. Each placement includes an information pack that provides details of the activities you may participate in, any special conditions of the placement, and the eligibility/assessment criteria.
Changes can be made to the application until the closing date for placements. Note that there are usually more applications than available spots, so you should approach the application process as you would a job application. Ensure all questions are answered and provide as much detail as possible.
https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers/student-pathways/defence-work-experience-program
Natasha De Cruze(Head of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing)
EPIC Pastoral Care and Wellbeing News
EPIC Pastoral Care and Wellbeing News
Building a Wellbeing Culture at EPIC with KOMODO Wellbeing
Komodo Wellbeing is the school-wide wellbeing platform that empowers students and enables schools to make positive and effective interventions. This year, we have teamed up with Komodo Wellbeing. Our students will be using the Komodo Wellbeing app to check in and engage with our school community. Komodo wellbeing provides our college with psychologist-built survey questions to measure the areas of wellbeing that matter most for our school.
Komodo Wellbeing will help EPIC, establish a wellbeing-first approach, and will leave no student behind. Our staff have access to classroom visibility from an intelligent check-in system, enabling meaningful conversation with students who need support or ask for help. I encourage, all our Secondary students to login to Komodo and complete the check in survey, please use the Student Login Instruction Guide to help you get started. If you have any questions regarding the Komodo Wellbeing app, I encourage you to contact me via TEAMS or email me, natashad@epic.vic.edu.au
Please see the following information sheets attached:
- Komodo Parent information
- KOMODO Student login Information
Exploring Spirituality (DEEN) and Wellbeing: Five ways to good mental wellbeing & Islam
Connect with Allah & with people.
- Be physically active.
- Learn something new each day.
- Give to others.
- Pay attention to the present moment.
This has been adapted by Dr Imrana Siddiqui; GP, Mental Health Lead -WEL CCGs, Wellbeing Hub Lead- Newham Training Hub, in collaboration with the London Borough of Newham Public Health Team. For more information visit www.good-thinking.uk
YEARS 7-10
SECONDARY PASTORAL CARE PROGRAM
STUDENT EMPOWERMENT
The Pastoral Care Program at EPIC, comprises of a 40-minute Pastoral Care class each fortnight, for students in years 7-10. The program is aimed at fostering relationships, spirituality, connection, personal growth, and skills to support their learning journey. Social and emotional skills will be taught with increasing complexity as children develop into adulthood. Our Pastoral Care program aims to explore the following themes:
Build relationships, spirituality, and connection.
To foster spirituality (Deen), connectedness and belonging to the school community by nurturing strong interpersonal relationships between teachers, students and families, and by providing opportunities for students to feel part of a group that encourages cross age support, friendship, inclusivity and community involvement.
Personal growth and Development
To provide opportunities for each student at EPIC to mature as a unique, holistic individual equipped with the life skills, emotional resilience, and confidence to develop their potential and share their gifts.
Learning journey
To support students as reflective lifelong learners through explicit teaching of goal setting, time management, establishing a homework routine and effective use of a daily planner, and by encouraging engagement, motivation, and the pursuit of excellence.
If you have any questions regarding the EPIC Pastoral Care Program, I encourage you to contact me via TEAMS or email me, natashad@epic.vic.edu.au
EPIC Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Team
ELC Learning and Development
We are presently prioritizing the establishment of children's settlements and fostering connections with their peers and teachers. Additionally, the children are showcasing their confidence and teamwork abilities while becoming acquainted with their daily routines and surroundings.
Our focus extends to play-based learning activities, including pasting and cutting exercises, alongside exploring the significance of Ramadan moon sighting. Furthermore, the children are actively engaging in meditation sessions and participating in music and movement activities.
Sawda Rumman(ELC Teacher)
ELC Learning and Development
Al-Sakeena and Al-Houda groups
In the three-year-old groups, for Islamic studies, we will be focusing on the five pillars of Islam throughout the year. The first pillar that we focused on is Sawm (Ramadan).
This week we have been focusing on Ramadan from decorating the room, to explaining to children what Ramadan is, why we fast, and what is expected of us during Ramadan.
Children made Ramadan cards, lanterns, and Ramadan moon. We also made a Ramadan calendar where children take turns in placing a star on each day of Ramadan, which will help children understand the Holly month of Ramadan better.
Our three-year-old groups have also been practicing (Salah), praying in our Islamic Spiritual corner. This allows children to learn to pray in a calm and unrushed manner to experience the beauty of Salah, and the peace it brings.
Zenav Hammouche(ELC Teacher)
Students of the Week
Week 3 | |||||
GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT |
FRM | Mahmoud Saleh | 2NS | 5AF | ||
FAB | Iman Ahmed | 3ZJ | Aisha Ajmeri | 5DA | Maryam Ibrahim |
FSS | Omar Al-basir | 3SP | Ayaa Ahmed | 5SA | Muhannad Sungkar |
FSR | Asli Hussein | 3CB | 6HF | Bilal Addaqeil | |
1SB | N/A | 4PS | Yusuf Abdi | 6HH | |
1AM | Malik Ahmed | 4BA | Narjes Al Rahmawee | 6RK | Ikhlaas Abdullahi |
1TB | Muna Abdi | 4FJ | Hiba Hassan | ||
1SH | 4KS | Hanya Alfeky | 5/6HZ | Muhammad Merhi | |
2AD | Aya Khodr | ||||
2SM | Furtu Lencho Sani | 3/4HZ | |||
2RI | |||||
Week 4 | |||||
GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT |
FRM | Mohamed Khodr | 5AF | |||
FAB | Mazen Hussein | 3ZJ | Omar Hussein | 5DA | Mustafa Muhidin |
FSS | Asma Hassan | 3SP | Yusuf Omar | 5SA | Waris Ghairat |
FSR | Ahmed Ahmed | 3CB | 6HF | Osman Calyton | |
1SB | Maryam Abdi | 6HH | |||
1AM | Khaled Ali | 4PS | Dina Said | 6RK | Maryama Abdullahi |
1TB | Sumayyah Korane | 4BA | Hamza Hassan | ||
1SH | 4KS | Abdulaziz Hassan | 5/6HZ | Zuhayb Abdi | |
2AD | Omar Elkharchaoui | 4FJ | Isra Soleman | ||
2SM | Ali Hussein Osman | 3/4HZ | |||
2RI | |||||
2NS |
Week 5 | |||||
GRADE | GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT | |
FRM | Ayah Mohammed | 2SM | Sahal Jama | 5SA | Ahmad Al-Abed |
FAB | Mohamed Abdulah | 2NS | 5AF | ||
FSR | 3ZJ | Ayah Chakli | 5DA | Laila Hassan | |
FSS | Abdinasir Ahmed Hassan | 3SP | Salma Issak | 6HF | Hussein Alsaeedi |
1SB | Adam Khan | 3CB | 6HH | ||
1AM | Youmna Mohamad | 4KS | Anisah Minawiyeh | 6RK | Aiza Ajmeri |
1TB | Hafsa Mahamud | 4PS | |||
1SH | 4FJ | Manar Musa | 5/6HZ | Zakariya Mohamed | |
2AD | Maryam Tabassum | 4BA | Zakariyah Dawson | ||
2RI | 3/4 HIFZ | ||||
Week 6 | |||||
GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT | GRADE | STUDENT |
FRM | Daniyah Osman | 2SM | Rahma Ahmed | 5SA | Salma Mohamed |
FAB | Husna Abdulahi | 2NS | 5AF | ||
FSR | 3ZJ | Abubakar Maalim | 5DA | Asha Ali | |
FSS | Kerat Tumsa | 3SP | Suhayl Osman | 6HF | Fariah Amzad |
1SB | Mona Chbib | 3CB | 6RK | Ibrahim Alruthaya | |
1AM | Fathi Hassan Farah | 4KS | Issa Samie | 6HH | |
1TB | Mosab Hassan | 4PS | 6SM | ||
1SH | 4FJ | Sadiq Mohamed | 5/6HIFZ | Sarah saiyed | |
2AD | 4BA | Mariam Mohamed | |||
2RI | 3/4 HIFZ |