Newsletter - Term 4 - Week 4 - Issue 75

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Caregivers

2021 - 2022 Student Leader Handover

Congratulations to all involved in last Friday’s student leadership handover. Our 2021 student leaders have certainly set a very high benchmark for our newly appointed student leaders which the 2022 leaders themselves have acknowledged and are excited to engage with this challenge. Both groups of leaders are to be congratulated.

Congratulations also to all Year 11 students who applied for a position and were not successful in attaining one of the 18 positions. The deliberation and discernment process was extremely rigorous and challenging given the outstanding group of applicants. We do hope that those students who were not successful will continue to lead the College as outstanding seniors in 2022.

St Joseph’s College 2022 Student Leaders

Finally, I would like to share with you the speech that our 2022 College Captains, Tahlia Utz and Riley Furse presented as part of the leadership handover. I think that you will agree that our student body is in good hands with these two outstanding young people leading them.

Riley: On my third day of grade seven, there was some confusion and I found myself accused of teasing another boy, which isn’t exactly what happened. I remember sitting in the old science block, shaking in my chair as I watched Mr Edwards walking down the stairs near student entrance, knowing I was about to get in big trouble. He took me outside and you can imagine my fear; a tiny, innocent boy in grade seven standing next to the behemoth Mr Edwards, but much to my surprise he didn’t yell or even get angry. He treated me with respect and kindness and instead encouraged me to be better. He had high expectations of me, but I also knew he that he would support me in good and bad times. Fast forward four years and here I stand on the stage delivering my first address as school captain for 2022.

Tahlia: Students are often asked if they like school. Personally, I’ve always loved school. However, when I tell people this, it’s usually followed by a 2-year old’s favourite word… why? For me, the why is simple.  On the surface school is a place you come every day, see your friends, indulge in new experiences and learn things that will set you on valuable and fulfilling path in life. When we take a step back, we realise what an incredible privilege it is to be a learner, let alone a learner at a school like this one. While this is not a persuasive speech, I am hoping that you will be able to grasp how my love for school will reflect my intended endeavours as your college captain for next year.

Riley: The thing about Joey’s is that it’s the community that makes us great. While you might feel insignificant sitting here in a sea of 900 other faces, the reality is that we wouldn’t be the same without you. St Joseph’s, we are a community of incredible individuals who all encompass different strengths and talents. We are really excited to be school captains for next year because we get to represent this school and all its amazing achievements by all you amazing people. We get to stand for everything you believe in, all that you’ve done, are doing, and will continue to do. Whether it’s competing in sport or music, advocating for people on the margins, simply greeting a guest, or just doing what you love, you all enhance our culture. St Joseph’s, this is why we are unmeasurably proud to be your captains for 2022.

Tahlia: Earlier this year I battled with cancer, and I missed weeks of school for treatment. Initially, I was worried that my studies would be impacted, and the goals I had for the future would be interrupted. I am absolutely gratified to tell you today, that one of the reasons none of these things happened was due to the tremendous support and guidance I received from the staff, students and leadership team. Mrs Fellenberg and Miss Moloney told me that I could continue my learning journey the way I always had, because everyone was backing me and would continue to assist me for as long as I needed. These attributes are exactly what I want to reflect in my leadership. 

Tahlia: We have all heard this one before, but it is important to remember that, as students, we have a maximum of six years to make our mark on Joey’s. If you’re a staff member, you might have a little bit longer, but all of us are drops in the ocean compared to the collective history of all the stories that have been written here. We stand before you today particularly aware of the impact of our 2021 College Captains. They have taken an idea- The Joey’s Way- and bought it to life. Now, it’s totally unmissable and a central idea to who we are. To Nick, Keely, Emily, Xander, Matt, Tahni, Miriama, Emma, Danicka, Prue, Dan, Emily, Darby, Jordan, Saxon, Claire, Mitch and Jemma, thank you for what you have done for this community in the last twelve months. “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of Giants”

Riley: As leaders, there are things we’ve built ourselves and our personal and professional successes on, things we’d like to reflect in our leadership. Firstly, just be kind. We talk about the Joey’s way a lot here, but a lot of it is simply saying: be kind. Even when you’re having a bad day, be kind. Even when someone else is not, be kind. Even when the underpaid, overwhelmed, underage kid working at the understaffed McDonalds at peak hour forgets your 10 pack of chicken nuggets: be kind. Always, always, always be kind. If in doubt double down and be kinder. It’s free and it will get you further than anything else will, just be kind. It costs us nothing and the rewards, both to us as individuals and to our community is practically infinite. Kindness is the best superpower anyone could ever have and, guess what, you’ve all got it. It’s the least you could do but even that will make you more successful than you might imagine. One of the reasons I'm so excited to be working alongside the student leadership team is because they are all genuinely lovely people who are kind and proud and passionate. 

Riley: Recently, I read that passion is the number one reason behind success. I don’t know if this is proven, but if you look at anyone you find successful, keeping in mind success is entirely subjective, I guarantee that they are passionate about what they do. Almost as a consequence of passion, pride will follow because when you are passionate you care about something and when you care about something you are proud. Without passion what are you doing? Without pride why do anything? Maybe it’s the perfectionist in me but I could not stand to put my name on something that I have not done as best as possible. There will always be the assignment you don’t want to do or the exam you don’t want to sit because it's too boring or hard or it seems useless. But don’t try to make it your passion, bring your passion into it. Make it yours, put your own unique spin on things. If nothing else, be passionate about being someone who does the best they possibly can at all times, as soon as you do that everything will become easier. Trust me.

Tahlia: We know for a fact that there were plenty of people, amazing, talented, brilliant people that put their name down for the position that we are in today. Plenty of people that would do an outstanding job. We are both proud and humble that we have been given the opportunity to take this role and be able to work with you all.  Together, we will work to ensure you feel welcomed and valued because this is a place where every single one of you are a piece to the puzzle. We cannot promise that we will always know what to do, but we will never give less than our best. We are so very excited to be working alongside such an incredible group of students, I know that each and every single one of the leaders that we induct today will support you in any and every way. St Joseph’s, you are in good hands.

Tahlia: We aspire to make this school not only a community, but a team, by not always standing up the front and telling you what to do, but rather leading from the heart of this group, to be present and inclusive and to live out the Joey’s Way. Our job is not to work above you but to work with you; to generate ideas together that will benefit everyone. Please never ever be afraid to ask us a question, bring us an idea or just say hello. We’d like to challenge you today, to make someone's day a little brighter, say something positive or encouraging, take that step toward our best future.

Riley: So that’s what you can expect from us, and that’s what you can expect us to expect from you.  Live with passion and pride, be friendly and kind, and you will not believe the heights you will climb or the success you will find. In other words, let’s bring on The Joey’s Way, bigger and better in 2022!

Due to the pandemic, the world we now live in is a very different place. The hyperconnected nature of our current environment means that we are constantly being reminded of the challenges we face via numerous media and social media channels. Our connectivity to the digital world exposes us to a barrage of messages that can leave us feeling overwhelmed. As a result, many children and their parents are reporting higher levels of stress and anxiety.

Unfortunately, our brains have not evolved fast enough to adapt to this digital landscape. The combination of constant access to information and having little control over the situations presented, can be stressful and overwhelming. It is therefore important for adult carers to check in with their children and be aware of what information they may have been exposed to. It may not necessarily be the information itself that is harmful, but more their inability to process and make sense of it. Providing children with the skills and strategies to cope will enable them to flourish and thrive, socially, emotionally and academically.

The blueprint for parenting, based on our own experiences, is no longer fit for purpose in raising kids as citizens of tomorrow. This can be inherently stressful and overwhelming, not only for parents and carers, but children alike. If left untreated or unmanaged, constant stress and anxiety can lead to a number of behavioural issues or health consequences.

SchoolTV has created this special report which suggests a number of strategies to help manage the feeling of being overwhelmed  that you or your child may be experiencing. I am hoping that you can take a moment to reflect on the information offered. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the special report https://sjc.qld.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-managing-overwhelm

Kort Goodman - Principal

From the Deputy Principal

Presentation Night

All of the St Joseph’s College community is invited to our upcoming Presentation Night. This evening is an opportunity to celebrate the culture and spirit of the College and recognise the achievements of students in all domains of schooling – Academic, Cultural, Sporting, Engagement & Leadership, Faith & Social Justice.

When: 16 November 2021. 6:15pm arrivals for 7:00pm start

Where: Empire Theatre Toowoomba

Tickets: Free. (Given COVID safe practices bookings are essential via the Empire Theatre website.)

Book your tickets to 2021 Presentation Night here - https://www.empiretheatre.com.au/event/985/St%20Joseph's%20College%20Presentation%20Night

Orientation Day

On Thursday 21 October we welcomed our 2022 Year 7 students to St Joseph’s College. We welcome new students and their families to the College and trust that this day provided them some insight into this amazing spirit and activities that pervade St Joseph’s College. During the day, the students engaged in various activities, classes, lunch together and meet teachers and their future peers. Thanks is extended to the numerous Junior and Senior student leaders who assisted with making the day a memorable experience for our new Year 7 students.

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ICAS

Last week, we commended students who achieved merit, credit, distinction and high distinction in the ICAS assessments for English and Mathematics. The globally renowned examinations allow students to apply their higher-order thinking skills and gain recognition for their efforts. As a College, we are proud of the students who participated in these assessments.  

Standardised Testing

As part of our strong commitment to improving literacy and numeracy levels of our students, all students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have participated in the Progressive Achievement Test for Reading Comprehension (PAT-R) and Mathematics (PAT-M). These tests are conducted annually for students in Years 7 to 9 in order to assist the school in measuring and tracking student achievement. These tests are used to:

• Highlight individual student needs and abilities to be addressed and supported
• Guiding the classes students are in 2022 and beyond
• Improving whole school literacy and numeracy levels
• Providing teachers with objective information for setting realistic learning goals and planning effective programs

Year 12 External Examinations and Masterclasses

This week the Year 12 students commenced their External Examinations and Masterclass lessons. We wish this students well in these final assessments.

Year 11 General Subjects Study Skills and Networking Day

Today Year 11 students enrolled in General Subjects attending a study skills and networking day with other schools from across the Diocese. The day was a great success and was a timely opportunity to develop positive and proven study habits, key advice about the demands of Units 3 and 4 directly from the General syllabuses, development of peer networks, and the chance to hear from high achieving ATAR students from across the Diocese.

Upcoming Events

Friday 29 October is World Teachers Day. On behalf of the St Joseph's College community, we thank our amazing teachers for everything they do for the students.

Brendon Willocks - Deputy Principal  -  bwillocks@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Assistant Principal - Religious Education

Vinnies Appeal

The work of SVDP

Everyday thousands of people turn to Vinnies in their time of need. Some only need a little help and can then continue with their lives, a crisis averted while some may need assistance over a longer time. Others may require professional assistance from our more specialised services.  It is only through the generosity of donors that members, volunteers and staff can continue to offer the right support at the right time.

Joey’s Vinnies Christmas Hamper Appeal

The Just Joeys Social Justice Group has again launched the  Vinnies Christmas Hamper Appeal. They ask that each JW group fill a basket with food and gifts for families in our local community.

The hampers will be collected on the 26 November during our Advent Liturgy.

Secondary Schools’ Citizenship Awards

The Secondary School’s Citizenship Awards – are intended to recognise those young people who contribute broadly through voluntary service to school and/or general communities. They exemplify the Association's objective: “To celebrate and promote outstanding Australian citizenship”.

This year we had a nomination come from within our community for a student who has dedicated much of her time in service of our community and the wider Toowoomba community. Through her work in Interact, fundraising for Caritas and Shave for a Cure, and her work in her local community, Prue Gardner is recognised with a Certificate of Community Service, from the Order of Australia Association – Queensland Branch.

Edmund Rice Awards

This year we are introducing two major awards that recognise a student in both Junior and Senior school who demonstrate the values and charism of Edmund Rice.

Edmund suffered great tragedy in his life, but in his grief was still moved with COMPASSION to recognise the needs of those around him.

He saw that the DIGNITY of others was threatened by the unjust social structures that forces many into oppression and poverty.

He found in the story of Jesus the call to liberation that is at the heart of what Jesus preached. And he set a free school to provide boys living in poverty with the opportunity to ENDEAVOUR to make their way to a better situation through liberating education.

Through providing education, food and new clothes, he enabled them to rise from a demeaning poverty and sense of hopelessness and feel RESPECTED.

The core values of Edmund Rice are embedded in our life here at St Joseph’s. The College values of Compassion, Dignity, Respect and Endeavour are reflected across the Edmund Rice touchstones of Gospel Spirituality, Liberating Education, Inclusive Community and Justice and Solidarity.

The Junior and Senior Edmund Rice awards will recognise students to show dedication to upholding these values and living a life modelled on that of Blessed Edmund Rice. These awards will be presented in the special award section at the end of our Presentation night on the 16 November.  Please come along and celebrate the wonderful examples of our Charism in our Presentation night.

Kellie-Maree Ford - Assistant Principal - Religious Education  -  kford@sjc.qld.edu.au 

From the Assistant Principal - Student Engagement

Seting Goals to Improve Your Attendance 

At St Joseph’s College, we are privileged to be able to dedicate time and other resources to the teaching of our Joey’s Way curriculum from 8:30am until 9:00am. These lessons focus on a range of topics, all of which help us to become learners. They include, but are not limited to: 

• Nutrition and Sleep 
• Right Relationships 
• Cyber Safety 
• Information and Technology Skills and 
• Executive Functioning and Organisational Skills
  

In addition, each Monday we focus on goal setting. This is a process by which students review their previous term’s report, examine areas of strength and areas for growth and develop a week-by-week plan to achieve these goals. We use the SMART goal framework whereby goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely. Joey’s Way teachers use this goal setting process as the basis for their reporting at the end of each semester. 

An essential part of setting any achievable goal is specifically knowing my current achievement level. If I set a goal of completing parkrun in twenty-five minutes, it’s important I know what my current parkrun time is. If I can already run the course in twenty-two minutes, a goal of twenty-five minutes is irrelevant. If I struggle to run the course in under one hour, a goal of twenty-five minutes is not achievable.  

The same principle applies to attendance. Broadly, the College attendance goal is ninety-five percent. That means ninety-five percent of students attending ninety-five percent of the time. We continue to strive towards this goal. For individual students and their families that goal may be too low as their attendance is already well above ninety-five percent. For others, their attendance percentage might be quite low and a goal of ninety-five percent attendance is not achievable in the foreseeable future. It’s essential that students and their families know their current attendance percentage, which can be accessed via the student portal. This will enable productive, low-threat and future-focussed conversation that supports the great learning already happening at St Joseph’s College. 

If you believe that the College can support you or your child in boosting their attendance, please reach out to your child’s JW teacher. 

Joe Cryle - Assistant Principal - Student Engagement  -  jcryle@sjc.qld.edu.au 

Missions - Breakfast Club

This term sees the Year 11 helpers train up the Year 10 volunteers for 2022 and they were assisted by the JW groups of B1 and B2 this week.  This term sees Brennan House helping out at Breakfast Club. 

Week 3 Photos

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Week 4 Photos

Cathie Barton - Program Middle Leader - Mission & Identity  -  cbarton@sjc.qld.edu.au 

Department Tutorials

Library News

Week three saw our Year 12s finishing up timetabled classes so that they could prepare for and sit their external examinations. In recognition of their achievements thus far and to come over the coming weeks, the Library honoured them in a congratulatory display:

It has been wonderful to see the Seniors using our space to hold collaborative study sessions in preparation for their examinations. Many have enjoyed using the space and our wonderful white board tables to work through ideas and equations.

It was particularly nice to see our Year 11 and 12 students engaging in discussions about mathematics problem solving, supporting one another in their studies.

The Library staff would like to take this opportunity to wish the Year 12 students all the best in their examinations.

Halloween:

With Halloween occurring this Sunday 31^st October, the Library staff embraced their spooky sides, creating a display of some of our horror, mystery, crime, and supernatural texts.

For those students who needed an EYE-dea of what to read, we also put together an interactive way to select a popular book to read using some replica eyeballs marked with text recommendations.

End of year returns:

Please be aware of the following deadlines for the return of library and textbooks:

As per the Textbook Hire Scheme that parents agree to prior to their son/daughter being provided access to our resources, any texts not returned or returned in damaged condition, will be charged to family accounts so that the College can replace these items for future student learning.

Kirstie Andrews - Teacher Librarian & Literacy Improvement Leader  -  kandrews@sjc.qld.edu.au 

Sports

DD Triathlon

Sienna travelled to the Sunshine Coast over the weekend to compete in the Darling Downs 2022 triathlon selection event.

Sienna won the DD trials for the Senior Girls Triathlon race at these All School trials and in doing so becomes our first DD Team member for 2022.

Sienna had the fastest swim leg for the day overall and had a good race. She will now compete at the Queensland Championship in Hervey Bay on the 17-19 February 2022.

Sienna also competed in the Queensland Open Water Swimming Championships at Coolum on the previous weekend. Sienna competed in the Girls 16 years 5km event and placed first which gave her the title of State Champion. This has now qualified her for the Australian Open Water Swimming Championships to be held in Adelaide in January next year. She is also preparing for the Long Course Championships in December.

This brings Sienna’s medal haul to 5 medals this year. At the Australian Age Swimming Championships, she claimed bronze in the 15 years 1500m freestyle and place 4^th in the 800m. At the short course championships, she won silver medals in the 15 years 1500m freestyle and 400m individual medley and a bronze in the 800m freestyle.

As a result of her performances Sienna has been selected in the Queensland Swimming Bronze Squad for 2021/2022.

These are brilliant results for Sienna who certainly works and trains hard both physically and academically.

Volleyball

Another season has come to an end with the Junior girls playing off against the senior girls for 5^th and 6^th place in Division C on Tuesday night. The senior girls won the first set, so the junior girls had to come back strong and take the second set off them or they were out of the competition. The game was on in the third, to see who would win. I am happy to report that the senior girls went down, (well not that happy) and the junior girls were victorious, gloating in the win over the Year 12 girls that included our school captain. I had to sit neutral at the halfway line as I coached both teams. It didn’t really matter who won as long as they had an enjoyable season and learnt new skills.

Our third team (coached by Ms Jannusch) competing on a Tuesday night were in the B division of the competition. They had a strong two set win to set up their place in the grand final next Tuesday night. They will play the grand final against Harristown Hawks Junior Girls at 6.40pm on Court 1.

A huge thank you to Miss Jannusch who has been coaching the girls each week and giving up her time to improve our volleyball skills around the College. If you would be interested in being part of a volleyball team in 2022 please send me an email.

Junior CBSQ

Like the senior CBSQ the two teams travelled each day down to Brisbane to play in this state-wide competition.

Boys Results

Game 1 St Joseph’s V’s Alexandra Hills SHS lost 22 to 100

Game 2 St Joseph’s V’s North Lakes State College lost 31 to 50

Game 3 St Joseph’s V’s Mueller College lost 16 to 77.

Cross over finals St Joseph’s V’s St Columban’s College lost 31 to 89

Semi-final St Joseph’s V’s St Mary’s College lost 51 to 19

Play off 15^th/16^th St Joseph’s V’s North Lakes State College lost 47 to 66

Girls Results

Game 1 St Joseph’s V’s Chisholm Catholic College lost 27 to 47

Game 2 St Joseph’s V’s Dakabin SHS lost 28 to 52

Game 3 St Joseph’s V’s St Columban’s lost 21 to 39

Game 4 St Joseph’s V’s Sheldon College lost 22 to 31

Game 5 St Joseph’s V’s Redlands College won 32 to 13 Played off for 9/10

Even though our results were not what we expected, it was a learning experience for them and an opportunity to know that we can strive for better and need to be better to compete at this level. Most of these students will step up to the next age group in 2022 leaving us with plenty of promise and ability.

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South West Touch

Only two of our teams competed in the Toowoomba and South West Touch competition that had been postponed due to the lock down earlier in the year.

The under 13 and 15 girls did themselves and the College proud. Both teams made it through to the semi-final rounds playing exciting touch, coming off the back of the All-Schools Touch in Brisbane.

Again, we owe our gratitude and thanks to Mr Kelly, Mrs Ranford and Mrs Whiting for coaching these teams on the weekend and giving up a Sunday away from their families.

We would also like to thank the strong presence of parents who were there to support the girls playing.

Deb Newton - Program Leader - Sports  -  dnewton@sjc.qld.edu.au

Art Department

“Arts Opportunities” 

Build your students' confidence in front of the camera with Mashed Theatre & Films' Acting For Camera short course starting this November. This course is an amalgamation of acting, filmmaking, scripting and editing - created to keep young people engaged and entertained in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Actors will benefit from working alongside industry professionals to advance their acting skills for the screen, express their creative ideas in collaboration with likeminded peers and explore how film production works. By the end of this fast-paced course, actors will be equipped with their very own showreel and have a chance to showcase all their hard-work at our ‘Movie Night Gala’!

ACTING FOR CAMERA 
AGES: 12-18
LOCATION: Canvas Coworking - 1/625 Ruthven St, Toowoomba City QLD 4350 (Access to building via Mann Street).
PRICE: $385 per person (GST included).

Here's what they will receive:
• Acting for Camera training
• Will learn an acting process transferable to any work they do in film or theatre
• Will receive expert mentorship and advice from industry professionals working in cinema
• Will receive training and practical exercises in operations behind camera
• Will engage in a collaborative process in how to bring a film together
• Will learn about visual storytelling, screenwriting, camera operation, shot selection, lighting, production design and sound
• Will receive a professional 2-minute showreel valued at $600 for their portfolio
• Will be able to attend, along with family and friends, a Movie Night Gala where they will dress up like a movie premiere and their work will be showcased in front of a live audience

Scheduled dates and times for this course are as follows:

Monday - November 1, 2021.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Monday - November 8, 2021.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Monday - November 15, 2021.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Monday - November 22, 2021.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Monday - November 29, 2021.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Monday - December 6, 2021.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Friday - December 10, 2021.
'Movie Night Gala'
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

For further information, bookings and inquiries, please contact info@mashedtheatre.com.

Chrissy Dwyer - Curriculum Leader - Arts  -  cdwyer@sjc.qld.edu.au

Murphy House

We welcome the Murphy students back to Term 3 with our handover of leadership in week 2. On befhalf of Murphy House, I would like to thank Emily Lewis and Xander Jackwitz for their student leadership over the past 12 months. Both Emily and Xander have lead from the front supporting staff and students. 

We welcomed our new 2022 house captains, Savannah Toohey and Baxter Smith into their roles with both students officially taking the lead from Emily and Xander now. Both Savannah and Baxter have already begun to engage with the students in putting plans in place for 2022. I look forward to celebrating with all of Murphy the achievements in 2022, it is going to be an exciting year.

With Term 4 moving at a hectic pace, students missing classes can impact of their ability to keep up with classwork and assessment. Our Joey’s Way teachers have been monitoring attendance and reaching out to those families where students have been absent to offer our support.

Last term a group of our year 11 and 12 students worked together to create our house prayer. This will become part of who we are in Murphy with all students reflecting on this during Joey’s Way time.

We wish all our students success this term and a special mention to our year 12 students as they commence their external exam.

Rodney Spain - Student Engagement Middle Leader - Murphy House  -  rspain@sjc.qld.edu.au

HPE Department

Energy has been buzzing through the HPE department in 2021. See below for some talking points from each year level.

Year 7 and 8
The Year 7 and 8 students engaged in a range of learning opportunities which aimed to introduce and teach students the importance of life long health and physical education. Students studied units that focused on healthy eating and food labels, analysing human movement, and analysing community connection through green spaces within Toowoomba which offer physical activity opportunities to all locals, young and old alike. With this, students were able to appreciate the wide range of benefits to investing in their health can bring as they move through life.

Year 9 and 10
The Year 9 and 10 students had the opportunity to develop their understanding of how the body moves through units focused on Motor Learning, Biomechanics, Functional Anatomy and First Aid. These challenging units were largely built on Project Based Learning (PBL) and required students to collect assessment data of a full semester. This engaging teaching and assessment style ensured students got the best out of these units. The Year 9 and 10 students course focuses on ensuring are truly prepared for their senior years of learning.

Senior Years
2021 was an interesting year as the HPE department offered a VET course within our department for the first time. The Certificate II & III in Sport & Recreation saw a large cohort of 40 students enrol and engage in learning experiences based on industry practices within coaching, training and officiating. This course now runs parallel to the general subject – Physical Education which continues to engage student’s critical thinking, communication, and personal and social skills. As a HPE team we are proud to offer students at St Joseph’s College a range of subject matter which best aligns with the students goals and aspirations.

Mitchell Kilgour - Curriculum Middle Leader - Health & Physical Education  -  mkilgour@sjc.qld.edu.au

Debating

Leigh Price - Program Middle Leader - elearning  -  lprice@sjc.qld.edu.au

Year 7 Field Trip - Flood Mitigation

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The Year 7 Cohort as part of their course requirements participated in a field trip to analyse Flood Mitigation along Gowrie Creek last Thursday 21 October. This excursion allowed students to take photos, ask questions and bring the classroom to life by visiting a couple of key locations impacted by flooding. The students will then write up a Field Report as their major assessment piece for the Term. In this report, they will analyse/evaluate what the Toowoomba City Council implemented as a result of the 2011 Floods that devastated the region and caused over 3 billion dollars’ worth of damage to the city.  The students will also need to critically analyse the Toowoomba 'Stronger, safer, and more resilient' campaign, and comment on how the council not only improved flood mitigation throughout the city, but how they added to the liveability of the city. Finally, the students will present a proposal on what further measures the Toowoomba Regional Council could possibly implement in the future.

Andrew Fellenberg - Curriculum Middle Leader - Humanities and Commerce  -  afellenberg@sjc.qld.edu.au

Career Pathways

This term we have been very busy working with the Year 12 students in preparation for their QTAC application process.  Students who are ATAR eligible have met with Mrs Harman to discuss their preferences for QTAC and their future pathways.  Mrs Harman has met with all Year 12 students to discuss their future pathways. 

Some QTAC Q & As

1. I applied for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) when I applied to QTAC. What do I need to do now?
2. If you didn’t download an Educational Access Scheme cover sheet/s for the category/categories you are applying for, click here, scroll down to cover sheets, then click on the relevant EAS category. The cover sheet/sheets provide a list of all documentation that you will need to submit to QTAC by the due date.
3. I didn’t apply for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) when I applied to QTAC. Can I still apply for EAS?
4. Yes. You can go back into your application and apply for EAS. Then you need to download the relevant cover sheet (or sheets) from the EAS page on the QTAC website. Complete all the requirements listed on the cover sheet. Attach any required supporting documents. You then upload or post your completed EAS application to QTAC. Some cover sheets may require a school statement. QTAC would like Year 12 students to submit their EAS applications by the end of October.
5. I am totally confused about offer rounds. According to the 2022 Year 12 Guide, the offer-round for my courses is 13 January 2022. Now I hear that I could get an earlier offer.
6. Institutions can give offers to eligible applicants (i.e. applicants who have met all the entry requirements) at different times. Visit the Course Offer Dates page on the QTAC website for dates when institutions might give offers. Offers will be made on all offer-round dates. It is essential that you keep checking your emails as this is how QTAC will let you know you have an offer. This is critical as you must respond to an offer by the due date (often within 4 days) or your offer will lapse and you will not be considered for any other courses in future offer rounds.
7. I applied for a university course that requires an audition but didn’t do the audition. Will I still be considered for entry to this course?
8. You should contact the university. However, the answer will probably be ‘No’.
9. I am not sure what my ATAR will be. The Pathways (preferences 5 and 6) courses on my QTAC application have previous minimum thresholds of ATAR 78. Is this a good enough safety net?
10. No.  It is advisable to select pathways courses (especially your 6th preference) which indicate that all applicants received an offer in 2021. Remember, you can always go back into your QTAC application AFTER you receive your ATAR and make any changes to your preferences that will see you competitive in gaining a place in a course in 2022.
11. Where can I get help with my QTAC application after I leave school?
12. Your best source of help at that time of the year is QTAC. You can ring QTAC on 1300 467 822 or email QTAC. Email is probably best, as the QTAC phone is very busy at this time of year and you need to be patient as you will be on a queue.

Last Wednesday, 20 October 2021, Year 12 students attended a presentation by DISCO where they received the DISCO School Leavers Guide. 

This term, the Career Dropin started with a presentation from USQ on the Tips and Tricks for Writing a Scholarship application. In Week 2, the ADF, Laura and Ace, visited the college to give our students a presentation about the career opportunities in the Australian Defence Force. 

The schedule for the Career Dropins for this term:

All students are welcome to attend the Career Dropin which is held every Thursday in Seminar Room 1. 

As the term is becoming busy with assessment, it is timely to remind ourselves of the importance of self-care when times are stressful.

Study Skills

Managing stress

Healthdirect has put together a list of body, mind and behavioural stress symptoms. Knowing what to look for and getting on top of your stress can make you life manageable, successful and happy. Some of the signs of stress that they identify are:

Body  -  The symptoms of stress and changes with your body that you may notice include:

• headaches
• other aches and pains
• sleep disturbance
• fatigue
• upset stomach, diarrhoea
• muscle tension

Mind  -  The symptoms of stress affecting your mind, thoughts and feelings include:

• anxiety, worry
• anger, irritability
• depression or sadness
• feeling overwhelmed and out of control
• feeling restless
• feeling moody, tearful
• difficulty concentrating
• low self-esteem, lack of confidence

Behaviour  -  The symptoms of stress that impact your behaviour include:

• overeating or undereating
• outbursts of anger
• relationship problems
• alcohol, smoking or drug abuse
• avoiding people

If you are experiencing any of these signs of stress or just not feeling yourself you need to speak with someone - parents, family doctor, psychologist. Don't try to manage excess stress by yourself.

OH NO! Exam stress

For those who are starting to feel their exam stress is becoming a legitimate obstacle, ReachOut.com has set out a handy list of resources from their website that can help smooth the period over:

Stress swaps – Simple ways to swap the worst forms of procrastination for more productive forms of procrastination

Apps – Five apps to help remove the stress factors through digital diaries, motivation, meditation and more.

Brain food – Eating healthy can lead to healthy results. Read about the best brain food for the exam period.

For more stress-reducing tips, visit the ReachOut website. If you are not coping it is best to talk with your parents, Guidance Officer/School Counsellor or family doctor.

Some study skills to consider

ANU have put together some new ideas to help with your academic work. There are a range of resources, tips and ideas to help you make the transition into university study. There is something here for everyone no matter your College or your level of study. Find out about:

• Becoming a scholar
• Time management
• Researching
• Reading strategies
• Note-taking
• Participating in classes
• English language
• Group work Sills workshops

Successful study skills

Class tests, yearly exams and essays are all frequent aspects of life as a high school student and they rely on preparation, more commonly known as “studying”. Although students know (and are told frequently) they should go to their room and study, the act of studying and building the right study skills can be quite elusive. Read this article that will provide some practical tips and strategies for high school students to study and be greater prepared for the class tests, yearly exams and essays they face on a regular basis.

The end of year exam period is almost here! De-stress with Mental Stillness

This is the time of the year when our stress levels soar. Unfortunately, stress not only affects mental and physical health but can also impact on exam performance. To help us manage our stress, Generation Next and Sydney University's Department of Psychiatry have developed a free, evidence based, easy-to-use app. The Mental Stillness App provides simple guided-meditation sequences on video that can be used on demand. It can be downloaded for iPhones/iPads and Android devices.

Working better under stress

Stress affects everyone. All the people you meet in life will have a certain task, situation or thought that causes them to experience stress. The way they experience and deal with that stress will be unique to them, and may be completely different to how you would experience and cope with the same situation. In these moments of stress, particularly in the context of study, we need to be able to continue to perform and meet deadlines, no matter the intensity of our stress levels or how we react to being under pressure. Click here to read an article from USQ' social hub that provides information on the following tips:

1. Change your space
2. Recognise your stress triggers
3. Test which skills function best when you’re stressed
4. Find the thing that helps you relax or regroup
5. Map out your assessment or study timelines to align with other life events

Videos about jobs

If you don't know anyone working in a job that you are interested in, then watch a video about the job. Visit the myfuture YouTube channel to view over 45 videos on a broad range of jobs.

Year 12 School based Apprentice and Trainee Employer thank you breakfast

On Wednesday 13^th October we celebrated our Year 12 students that have undertaken or completing a School Based Traineeship or Apprenticeship.

This was a wonderful opportunity for the students to thank their employers for providing them this opportunity.

Thank you to the Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office: SBA Program for hosting the event and our SJC Hospitality students for their service on the morning.

New School Based Trainees and Apprentices

Congratulations to our new school based trainees and apprentices recently signed up:

• Aimee Wilson – Children’s Educare Centre, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care
• Hamish Brassington – Graham Nielsen Construction, Certificate III in Carpentry
• Daniel Robinson – McNab Constructions, Certificate III in Carpentry
• Nicholas Manthey – McNab Constructions, Certificate III in Carpentry
• Marley Tunstead – St Thomas More’s, Certificate III in Education Support
• Cathan Buckley – Toowoomba Plumbing Solutions, Certificate III in Plumbing

Gessner School Leaver Job Opportunity 

https://www.gessner.com.au/

Gessner are looking for School Leavers with welding experience for an Apprenticeship in Boiler making or Fabrication.

If you are interested in applying please see Mrs Stafford, Careers Support Officer.

Wendy's Grand Central - Job Opportunity

Wendy’s in Grand Central are looking for a Year 9 or 10 student for a potential School Based Traineeship - Certificate III in Business.

Year 9 students would not commence traineeship until the end of School year.

Please see Mrs Stafford – Career Support Officer for more information on Traineeships and if you would like to apply.

Golden West Apprenticeships - 2022 Apprentice Intake

With a range of apprenticeships on offer for 2022, Golden West Apprenticeships are encouraging Year 12 school leavers and local jobseekers to register their interest now.

Golden West Apprenticeships have apprenticeship positions on offer for a range of roles including:

• Carpentry
• Engineering
• Administration
• Electrical
• Automotive
• Hospitality
• Health

Golden West Apprenticeships are accepting applications until 14 January 2022, however jobseekers are encouraged to register as soon as possible for the 2022 Apprenticeship Intake through Golden West’s Applicant Portal - http://apply.goldenwest.org.au/.  If you have any questions, please call 4688 9000 or 0428 889 028.

SBA Vacancies

Flyers for Certificate III in Individual Support, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care school-based traineeships:

• 62-21 Certificate III in Individual Support – Ozcare, Glenvale – 10 and 11
• 63-21 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care – Imagine Childcare, Toowoomba – 10, 11 and 12
• 64-21 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care – Grow Early Education Centre, Darling Heights – 10 and 11
• Flyer for Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care – Applicants must have completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care to be eligible for this position
• Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care – Grow Early Education Centre, Darling Heights – 12
• Flyer for Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher) apprenticeship:
• Certificate III in Meat Processing (Retail Butcher – Allora Butchery, Allora – 12

Please forward Resume (and SBA Referral Form, if not already on file) to Isabella.travers@twb.catholic.edu.au by the close dates of the 27 and 28 October 2021

For more information please contact the Careers Team

Angela Stafford - Vocational Education Co-Ordinator  -  astafford@sjc.qld.edu.au

Leah Millett - Careers Support Officer  -  lmillett@sjc.qld.edu.au

Maree Harman - Career Development Practitioner  -  mharman@sjc.qld.edu.au

New Staff Welcome

We welcome Sam Simpson to the College, Sam will be assisting students learning in the Design Technology Department.

Kerry Hodgson will be working in the maintenance team by driving the bus for excursions.

P & F Association

NEXT MEETING
November 9  -  Library - 5.30pm start

Canteen

We need your help!

Please contact the College if you have some time to volunteer.  Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Deb Ditchmen and Michelle Tully - Canteen Convenors

E: dditchmen@sjc.qld.edu.au

E: mtully@sjc.qld.edu.au 

Uniform Shop

EFTPOS only - No Cash accepted until further notice.

Please follow Queensland Government guidelines and check-in when visiting the uniform shop.

Navy Face Masks  - reusable/washable – Small and Large sizes - $5 each

Summer stock is now available.

Blazers are available for the cold weather - all sizes available.

Female Bike Pants are now available in sizes – Girls 10 & 12, Ladies XS – XL

JUMPERS - have finally arrived into stock, all sizes available.

The uniform shop is currently out of stock of the following and waiting on orders to arrive:-

Girls Formal Hat Size 54

Ordering Online Process

www.midford.com.au     pass phrase StJC1956

Second hand uniforms are also available at the Uniform Shop.

If you have used uniform items that would like to donate, please drop off to the Uniform Shop during opening hours.  Donations are greatly appreciated.

If you have used uniform items that you would like us to sell for you, please call into the uniform shop and collect a “Used Clothing” form. Used uniforms items MUST be in good condition, hems intact, no holes, stains or missing buttons. They also need to washed, ironed and be the current uniform. 

If you have any questions, please call us on 4631 8514 during opening hours.