Remembrance is about honouring and holding in our hearts those who have given of themselves for others. On Remembrance Day, we pause in gratitude for those who sacrificed for peace. As Fire Carriers, we remember and walk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the ongoing journey of reconciliation. On the World Day of the Poor, we remember those living with hardship and are called to respond with compassion and action. And during World Kindness Day, we remember the power of small, everyday acts of care that bring hope and healing to our world.
We say an Acknowledgement of Country to show respect to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples—the First Peoples of Australia.
Before our school, houses, or roads were built, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people cared for this land for a very long time.
It’s a way of remembering that we all share the land and that we want to take care of it and each other.
We would like to acknowledge the Jaara people, the traditional custodians of the land on which we are meeting today, we acknowledge ancestors and elders past, present and emerging and commit ourselves to work actively for reconciliation and justice.
All: May we all stand tall, stand firm, grounded in truth, together as one.
We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land we are on today, the Dja Dja Wurrung people.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and future.
We thank them for ______________________________________.
Today, we promise to ____________________________________.
We are grateful to walk, learn, and play on this ______________________ land.
Here are some examples you might use:
Thanking them for: sharing their knowledge, caring for Country, welcoming us
Promise to: care for the land, learn about culture, treat nature with respect, invite all with open arms, help others who come to this country/land
Describe the land as: special, sacred, strong, beautiful, ancient, peaceful, friendly, open
Junior Acknowledgement of Country
Here is the Land, here is the Sky, here are my friends, and here am I.
We play today on traditional Land, Our First Nation people, we walk hand in hand.
We’d like to say thank you for letting us share the Land that you love. We promise to take care.
We pray to talk to God. Just like we speak with our family or friends, prayer is our way of staying connected to God. We might pray to say thank you, to ask for help, to say sorry, or simply to spend time with Him.
A quiet moment to pause, breathe, and bring our hearts and minds into God’s presence, preparing ourselves to pray with focus, gratitude, and openness.
Take a moment to settle your thoughts.
Close your eyes if you wish, and slow your breathing.
Breathe in peace.
Breathe out gratitude.
Think of those who have given something of themselves so that others may live with freedom, dignity, and hope — soldiers, carers, teachers, family, and friends.
Remember their courage, their love, their faithfulness.
Now think of the First Peoples of this land — whose culture and stories carry deep remembrance.
They remember the land, the ancestors, and the Creator Spirit who breathes life into all.
As Fire Carriers, we are invited to walk gently, to listen, and to remember together.
Think of those who struggle today — the poor, the lonely, the forgotten.
On this World Day of the Poor, we remember that every person is sacred and deserves compassion.
We carry them in our hearts.
And finally, remember kindness — the small, quiet moments that bring light to another person’s day.
Each act of kindness is a way of saying, “I remember you. You matter.”
Pause now in silence.
Let your heart rest in gratitude.
May remembrance lead us not only to reflection but also to action —
to live with peace, to walk with justice, and to act with kindness.
Benedictus by 2CELLOS
Benedictus is a peaceful and emotional piece of music performed by 2CELLOS.
The music starts softly and slowly builds, creating a feeling of calm, hope, and reflection. It's often used in moments of quiet thinking, meditation, or prayer because it helps people feel peaceful and connected.
It’s a beautiful reminder to pause, be grateful, and notice the special moments in our lives.
A quiet moment to pause, listen, and open our hearts to God, allowing His presence to guide our thoughts, deepen our faith, and inspire us to live with love and kindness.
Remembrance is more than recalling the past — it’s about keeping love and compassion alive in the present. The Bible teaches that to remember is to act: to notice, to care, and to respond. In the story of The Good Samaritan, Jesus shows us what true remembrance looks like. The Samaritan doesn’t just remember that someone is hurt — he stops, helps, and restores. This story reminds us that remembrance leads to mercy, kindness, and justice. Whether we’re honouring those who served on Remembrance Day, walking with First Nations peoples as Fire Carriers, standing with the poor, or practising kindness, we are living out the heart of what it means to remember.
Remembrance Day – Like the Samaritan, we remember the cost of courage and compassion. We honour those who gave their lives by continuing their legacy of peace.
Fire Carriers – The Samaritan crosses cultural boundaries; he remembers the shared humanity in every person, just as reconciliation invites us to remember our shared story and walk together.
World Day of the Poor – The Samaritan remembers the poor man by seeing him, not passing by. He reminds us that remembrance is action—lifting up the forgotten.
World Kindness Day – His simple, genuine kindness heals. Jesus calls us to remember others through small, merciful acts that restore dignity and hope.
A man was travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. He was beaten and left half dead on the side of the road. A priest passed by and didn’t stop. A Levite did the same. But a Samaritan—a person from a group often looked down upon—saw him, was moved with compassion, and stopped to help. He cleaned and bandaged his wounds, took him to an inn, and paid for his care.
Jesus ends by asking, “Which of these was a neighbour to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?”
The expert in the law replied, “The one who showed him mercy.”
Jesus said, “Go and do the same.”
Who do I sometimes “walk past” in my daily life?
What does it mean for me to “remember” others through my choices and actions?
How can remembrance become a living act of love?
A moment to open our hearts to God, whether in asking for guidance, strength, and help or in giving thanks for His blessings, love, and presence in our lives.
Thanksgiving prompts
Thank You, God, for giving me…
Thank You, God, for helping me…
Thank You, God, for the people who…
Thank You, God, for the beauty of…
Thank You, God, for the lessons I learn when…
Thank You, God, for always…
Thank You, God, for the moments when…
Thank You, God, for the strength to…
Thank You, God, for Your love that…
Thank You, God, for the joy of…
Asking prompts
Please, God, help me to…
Please, God, give me the courage to…
Please, God, guide me when…
Please, God, help me to be more…
Please, God, show me how to…
Please, God, help me to forgive…
Please, God, remind me to…
Please, God, be with me when…
Please, God, give me the wisdom to…
Please, God, teach me to…
Regular prayers
God, please watch over and heal those who are sick, especially…
I am thankful for the love and support of my family and friends, especially…
Lord, help those who are feeling lonely or sad to know they are loved, including…
God, please give strength and courage to people who are facing difficult times, such as…
Thank you for the beauty of creation and the many blessings in my life, like…
Hail Mary,
Full of Grace,
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit
of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary,
Mother of God,
pray for us sinners now,
and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
Dear God,
Thank You for giving me gifts I can use to help others.
Teach me to be a kind and brave leader—
to listen well, to include others, and to do what is right.
Help me to lead like Jesus, with love and care.
Amen.
The Aboriginal Our Father is a version of the traditional Christian Lord’s Prayer expressed through the language, imagery, and spirituality of Aboriginal culture.
The Aboriginal Our Father reminds us that:
God is close – like the land we walk on and the sky above us.
Forgiveness and peace are part of walking together.
We are called to live in respect, balance, and care for one another and the earth.
Father,
We believe that St Kilian’s School is a great place to learn and have fun.
We trust our school community will continue to welcome new members and will always help
and care for each other.
We thank you for the love and respect of our families, teachers and friends.
With Jesus as our model, may we grow to be the best people we can.
Amen.
Remembrance Day is a special day when we stop to think about and thank the people who have served in wars or peacekeeping missions to help keep our country and the world safe.
At 11 o’clock on the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause for one minute of silence. We do this to remember those who were brave, who helped others, and who gave their lives so that we could live in peace and freedom.
We wear red poppies as a symbol of remembrance — they grew on the battlefields after the First World War, showing that even in hard times, new life and hope can grow.
We have Remembrance Day because it’s important to remember the sacrifices people made, to pray for peace, and to learn how we can be peacemakers in our own lives — through kindness, respect, and love for others.
The Poppy Story
A long time ago, there was a big war. When the fighting finally stopped, people looked around and saw that the land was quiet and still. Then, something amazing happened — bright red poppies began to grow on the fields where the soldiers had fought.
A lady named Moina saw the poppies and thought they were a beautiful way to remember the people who had been brave and helped to keep others safe. She started wearing a red poppy to show she would never forget them.
Soon, lots of other people began wearing poppies too. Every year, around the same time in November, people wear poppies to remember and say thank you to all the men and women who have helped to make the world a safer, kinder place.
The poppy reminds us that even after something sad or hard, new life and hope can grow — just like the poppies did.
What do you think the red poppy reminds people of?
How do you think the soldiers and their families might have felt during the war?
Why is it important to stop and remember people who helped others in the past?
What are some ways you can help bring peace and kindness to others today?
The poppy grew even after the fighting — what does that tell us about hope?
Learn About Remembrance Day
In this video, we learn that Remembrance Day is a special day when people stop to remember all the men and women who worked hard, helped others, and sometimes even gave their lives to keep us safe.
On the 11th day of the 11th month, at 11 o’clock, people everywhere pause for one minute of silence. During that minute, we think about those who were brave in wars and thank them for helping to bring peace.
We see people wearing red poppies, because poppies grew on the fields after the First World War ended. The poppy reminds us of hope, love, and new life — even after something sad.
The video shows how people remember in different ways — by being quiet, laying wreaths, praying, or showing kindness to others. It reminds us that remembering isn’t just about the past — it’s also about trying to make the world peaceful and kind today.
Why do people stop for a minute of silence on Remembrance Day?
What do the red poppies remind us of?
How can we show kindness and peace like the people we remember?
Who are some people in your life you’re thankful for today?
Remembrance Day Colour-by-Number Pack
A calming and engaging activity where students colour Remembrance Day-themed pictures, such as poppies and “Lest We Forget” designs, by following a number key. It reinforces the symbols of remembrance while promoting mindfulness and fine motor skills.
Remembrance Day Soldier Craft
Students colour, cut, and assemble a soldier with a fold-up section where they can write a message of thanks or reflection. This craft combines art, writing, and history, helping children connect personally to the theme of remembrance and service.
“Lest We Forget” Poppy Writing Activity
Students complete short reflective sentences written on the petals of a poppy, such as “Today, I will remember…” and “Thank you veterans for…”. This activity encourages children to think about the meaning of remembrance and express gratitude in their own words.
Poppy Template Cutouts
A creative cutting and colouring activity where students make their own poppies. It can be used to decorate the classroom, create a remembrance wall, or wear as a symbol of peace and gratitude on Remembrance Day.
Here are some child-friendly writing prompts to help students reflect meaningfully during their Remembrance Day activities.
I remember the soldiers because…
Remembrance Day is important to me because…
When I hear the words “Lest We Forget,” I think about…
We wear poppies to remind us that…
I feel thankful for…
I can help make peace in my school by…
When I see someone who is sad or lonely, I can…
Being kind and respectful helps our world because…
Peace feels like…
A peaceful world would look like…
Being brave means…
People who help others are…
I can be brave by…
I am thankful for people who…
The word “hero” makes me think of…
Here is a prayer you might like to use for Remembrance Day.
Centering
Let us take a moment to be still.
Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and feel your feet on the ground.
Remember that we are in the presence of God, who loves us and is always with us.
Breathe in peace.
Breathe out gratitude.
We gather today to remember — to remember those who gave their lives for others,
to remember those who still serve today,
and to remember that peace begins with us.
(Pause for a moment of silence.)
Opening Prayer
Loving God,
You are the source of peace and hope.
Today, we remember all those who have shown courage, love, and sacrifice
so that others might live in safety and freedom.
Help us to keep their memory alive in our hearts,
and teach us to be people of peace in our homes, our school, and our world.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Throughout the Bible, God reminds us that peace and love are at the heart of who we are called to be.
Jesus often spoke about forgiveness, compassion, and caring for others — even when it’s difficult.
Today’s reading reminds us that those who bring peace and kindness into the world are truly living as God’s children.
Let us listen carefully to God’s Word.
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
— Matthew 5:9
Jesus calls us to be peacemakers — people who bring calm, kindness, and hope wherever we go.
Today we remember those who worked for peace, even when it was hard, and those who gave their lives so that others could live freely.
The poppy reminds us of their bravery and of the new life that can grow even after something sad or difficult. It is a sign of hope and love.
Reflection Questions:
Who are people you want to remember and thank today?
What are some ways you can bring peace and kindness into the world around you?
How can you remember others — not just with words, but through your actions?
(Pause for silent reflection.)
Leader: Let us bring our prayers before God, who listens with love.
1. We pray for all who have served in times of war and peace.
May we never forget their courage and sacrifice.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
2. We pray for peace in our world, especially where people are hurt or afraid.
May leaders choose kindness and justice over anger and power.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
3. We pray for those who are poor, lonely, or struggling.
May we remember them with compassion and act with love.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
4. We pray for the First Peoples of our land.
May we remember their stories, walk together with respect, and build a future of healing and unity.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
5. We pray for ourselves and our school community.
May we be people of peace — gentle in our words, strong in our kindness, and ready to help others.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
Loving God,
Thank You for all those who have given their lives for peace.
Help us to remember them not only today but every day,
by living with kindness, courage, and hope.
May Your peace live in our hearts and guide our words and actions.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace.
Amen.
The World Day of the Poor is a special day when the Church asks everyone to remember people who don’t have enough — enough food, money, love, or friendship.
It reminds us that Jesus cared deeply for the poor and those who were left out. He often helped people who were sick, hungry, or lonely.
On this day, we are encouraged to look around our own world and think about how we can help others — by sharing, being kind, and making sure everyone is treated fairly.
It’s a day to see others with love and to remember that every person is special to God.
The video helps us understand what poverty really means. It shows that poverty is not just about not having enough money — it’s about not having the things we all need to live well, like clean water, food, a safe home, medicine, and education.
We learn that children living in poverty often face big challenges every day. Some don’t have enough to eat, can’t go to school, or don’t have clean water to drink. But the video also shares stories of hope and change — how kindness, education, and support from others can make a big difference.
It reminds us that God calls us to care for others, to share what we have, and to help everyone live with dignity. Even small acts of kindness — like giving, praying, or speaking kindly — can help fight poverty and bring hope.
Understanding Poverty
What do you think it means to live in poverty?
What are some things that everyone should have to live a healthy, happy life?
Thinking About Fairness and Compassion
How would you feel if you didn’t have enough food or a safe place to sleep?
How can we show compassion to people who are struggling?
Making a Difference
What are some small ways you can help others at school, at home, or in your community?
Jesus cared deeply for people who were poor — how can we follow His example today?
Leader:
As followers of Jesus, who loved and cared for the poor, we bring our prayers to God, who listens to the cries of all people.
1. For the Church:
That we may always be a Church of welcome and compassion, walking with those who are poor, lonely, or struggling.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
2. For our world:
That leaders of nations will work for justice and peace, and make choices that help all people live with dignity and hope.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
3. For those who are poor or in need:
That all who are hungry, homeless, or afraid will find comfort, kindness, and the help they need.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
4. For our community:
That we will see the face of Jesus in every person, and reach out with open hearts to share what we have with others.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
5. For young people:
That children and students everywhere will grow up to be caring and generous, using their gifts to make the world a fairer and kinder place.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
6. For all who have died:
That they may rest in the peace and light of God’s love, especially those who suffered in poverty or isolation during their lives.
Lord, hear us.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
Leader:
Loving God,
You hear the prayers of all your children, especially those who are poor and forgotten.
Fill our hearts with compassion and courage so that we may work for a world where no one is left behind.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
World Kindness Day is an international day held each year on 13 November. The day was introduced in 1998 by the World Kindness Movement, a global coalition of kindness-organisations, to celebrate and promote good deeds and the power of kindness worldwide.
We celebrate World Kindness Day to remind ourselves of the power that simple, genuine kindness has to change lives. It’s a day that encourages everyone — children and adults alike — to look for ways to show care, generosity, and compassion. By celebrating kindness, we highlight the good deeds that already happen in our communities and inspire others to join in. The day also reminds us that kindness connects us all, no matter our background, beliefs, or culture. When we choose kindness, we help to build a more peaceful, understanding, and hopeful world — one small act at a time.
Below are some different activities that explore joy, in particularly being thankful and sharing kindness. You might encourage students to explore how they could do some of these in their week this week.
Help a classmate who is struggling with their work.
Hold the door open for someone.
Say something nice to a friend or family member.
Help tidy up a shared space at home or school.
Share their snacks or lunch with someone who forgot theirs.
Invite someone to join in a game or activity.
Write a kind note or letter to someone who might need cheering up.
Draw a picture for someone to make them smile.
Compliment someone on their efforts or achievements.
Help a younger sibling or friend with a task or chore.
Share a toy or item with someone who doesn’t have one.
Thank a teacher or adult helper for their hard work.
Pick up litter and help keep their environment clean.
Say "good morning" or greet people with a smile.
Spend time with someone who looks lonely or sad.
Let someone go first in a line or game.
Make a homemade gift for someone special.
Help an elderly neighbour or relative with something they need.
Encourage someone who feels nervous or unsure.
Leave a kind note for someone to find.
Which act of kindness do you feel most excited to try? Why?
Can you think of someone in your life who could really use kindness today?
How do you think you’ll feel after doing something kind for someone else?
Have you ever had someone do something kind for you? How did it make you feel?
How do you think the person receiving your kindness will feel?
What might happen if we all tried to share kindness with people around us?
What’s a small act of kindness you can do every day?
How can your family or class make kindness something you practise together?
This week, our Positive Behaviour Blitz at school is all about “Leave No Trace.” We are learning the importance of being respectful, responsible, and safe in how we treat our belongings in the classroom and on the yard.
Leave No Trace means showing care for our environment, shared spaces, and each other by making sure we don’t leave mess, damage, or harm behind. It reminds us to respect the places we learn and play in and leave them as we found them—or even better.
This connects to our school values:
Respectful – We treat all spaces with care.
Example: We walk around plants and artworks instead of stepping on or over them.
Safe – We keep areas clean and clear so everyone can use them safely.
Example: We put away sports equipment and pick up rubbish so others don’t trip or slip.
Responsible – We take ownership of our own mess and help others do the same.
Example: We tidy our workspace, push in our chairs, and pack up shared materials even if we didn’t use them.
By living these values, we show that we care for our school, our environment, and our community.
This week we have a particular focus on picking up our belongings when the music plays at the end of break. Our PBIS focus of “Leave No Trace” reminds us to take responsibility for our things and leave the yard tidy for everyone.
When the bell rings, grab your things!
Here’s a simple social script to remember:
When I hear the music, I know break time is finished.
I look around for my hat, jumper, drink bottle, or sports equipment.
I pick up my belongings and take them with me.
That way, I leave no trace and I’m ready for learning.
These are the routines that our school know well! Let's continue to focus on these.
This routine is used anytime students need to move around within the classroom (e.g., from mat to table, or into groups).
It keeps the classroom calm and safe, helps everyone know what to do, and stops confusion or rushing.
Ready in Five
Listen for when, what, and who will move
Move silently and safely when told
Stay focused and listen for the next instruction
This routine is for times when students move out of the classroom (e.g., to specialists, Mass, assembly).
It shows respect to others, keeps everyone together and safe, and helps the class arrive at places calmly and on time.
Ready in Five
Line up in two quiet lines
Stay with the person in front of you
Walk quietly and respectfully
Stop when asked and listen carefully
Respectful:
How can we show respect to others while moving inside or outside the classroom?
What does respectful movement look and sound like?
How does being respectful help everyone focus and feel calm during transitions?
Responsible:
What is your responsibility when you hear “Ready in Five”?
How can you make sure you are following the teacher’s instructions during movement time?
What should you do if you notice a friend is not sure where to go or what to do?
Safe:
How can we keep ourselves and others safe when we move as a class?
What could happen if we don’t follow the movement routine properly?
How can you use your body and space to make sure everyone stays safe?
This routine teaches students how to use their mini whiteboards properly during lessons.
It helps everyone stay focused, answer quickly without shouting, and gives the teacher a fast way to see what everyone understands.
‘Ready in Five’ is a consistent teacher prompt used to gain students' full attention before giving instructions or starting a lesson.
The teacher stands in a central position, counts down from five while scanning the room, and waits for 100% of students to respond and make eye contact. It teaches students to stop, look, and listen, creating a calm and focused transition into learning.
The Classroom Entry Routine sets clear expectations for how students enter the room after breaks or transitions.
Students line up in pairs, enter quietly, stand or sit in their spot, and wait with eyes on the teacher before being greeted and seated. It promotes calm, safe, and respectful beginnings to lessons, helping students settle quickly for learning.
The Classroom Exit Routine guides students in leaving the room calmly and respectfully at the end of a lesson or day.
Students pack up quietly, stand behind their desks, respond to the teacher's farewell, and are dismissed row by row. It ensures a smooth and safe transition, reinforcing gratitude, order, and readiness for what comes next.
At our school, every student has the right to feel safe, respected, included, and supported. You should always be treated fairly and listened to, and if something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s bullying, feeling unsafe, or being worried—you can and should speak up to a trusted adult, because it’s your right. We all share the responsibility to make school a safe place by being kind, respectful, honest, and following school rules. Child Safety Officers and teachers are here to listen and help, and together we can make sure school is a place where everyone belongs and can learn and grow.
Every student has the right to feel safe, accepted, valued, heard, and supported.
You can talk to a trusted person if you’re being bullied, feel scared, worried, or sad.
The school has Child Safeguarding Officers trained to listen and help.
The whole community works together to keep children safe and ensure their voices are heard.
The Child Safe Standards were created to make sure children are protected in schools, sports clubs, and other organisations.
Adults must be carefully chosen, listen to what makes you feel safe, and act if something is wrong.
You have the right to be safe everywhere—and if you ever don’t feel safe, you can and should tell an adult, and they must help you.
You have the right to be safe, respected, treated fairly, and included at school.
You also have responsibilities: be kind, follow rules, be honest, include others, and help make school safe for everyone.
Bullying, harassment, and ignoring teachers’ directions are not okay.
If you feel unsafe, talk to a trusted adult (teacher, parent, carer, or Child Safety Officer).
Consequences happen if rules are broken, but the aim is to make school safe for all.
What does it mean to feel safe at school? Can you share a time you felt safe?
Why do you think it’s important that everyone has the right to be heard and believed?
Who are the trusted adults you could talk to if something didn’t feel right?
How can students help make school a kind and respectful place?
What’s one small action you could take to include someone who feels left out?
Why do rules exist, and how do they keep us safe?
Sometimes it’s hard to tell an adult if you’re worried. What might make it easier?
Why do you think the posters say “Speak up—it’s your right”?
How can we support each other if a friend is scared to speak up?