Newsletter - Term 3 - Week 8 - Issue 110

From the Principal

Dear Parents, Carers and Students

Social Justice Sunday

Last Sunday was Social Justice Sunday and during Sunday morning’s Mass Bishop Ken spoke on how the Bishops are striving to focus on creating better engagement between our First Nation’s peoples and the Church. The Bishop’s Social Justice Statement, ‘Listen, Learn, Love. A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples,’ can be accessed at this link https://www.stignatiustoowong.org.au/acbc-social-justice-statement-2023-24/

A worthwhile read.

SJC Towards 2024 Strategic Plan

As I have in the last two newsletters I again this fortnight provide an update on how we are progressing toward achieving the strategic intents of the St Joseph’s College Towards 2024 Strategic Plan.

The intent of sharing this information is to provide the community with appropriate information on the growth that we have achieved over the last three years and areas for further development. This information also celebrates and acknowledges the outstanding efforts of the students, teachers, ancillary staff, and wider community who have led, engaged with, and contributed to this growth over the last three years.

Continuing on from our previous two newsletters this week I share with you our Mission and Identity strategic intents and improvement strategies from our St Joseph’s College Towards 2024 Strategic Plan.

Domain - Mission and Identity – Religion Curriculum 

Strategic Intent: St Joseph’s College has begun to embed research-based religious pedagogy and curriculum aligned praxis to improve our learners engagement as critical thinking religious citizens. 

Key Improvement Strategies: 

To promote the role Religious Education plays within the St Joseph’s College community the College has: 

• Successfully engaged with best practice teaching pedagogy in Religious Education through the Illuminate Project.
• Supported staff to acquire the relevant knowledge to engage with scripture and the pedagogy of encounter.
• Supported staff to use high impact teaching strategies in Religious Education.
• Used student voice to inform the development of curriculum and classroom teaching.
• Supported staff to increase involvement in mission activities.
• Began to implement praxis experiences and connect service learning to the curriculum and key content descriptors.

Domain - Mission and Identity – Religious Life of the School 

Strategic Intent: As part of the life and mission of the Catholic Church, St Joseph’s College deeply commits to the formation of staff and students in the Jesus story and Edmund Rice charism. The St Joseph’s College community is empowered to critically inquire and explore faith in action for a lifelong engagement. 

Key Improvement Strategies: 

To develop and implement a clear, relevant, and meaningful staff formation plan aligned to our strategic goals and staff voice, St Joseph’s College has: 

• Begun to educate staff and students in the Edmund Rice Charism.
• Begun the process engaging more with the Edmund Rice Education Australia association to make connections and take advantage of opportunities from the wider network.
• Responded to staff needs in empowering them with the skills to engage with the Pedagogy of Encounter and Dialogue. 

To nurture a distinctive and contemporary Catholic Identity, the College has: 

• Led the way in recontextualising our faith through the Joey’s Way so that our students and staff can engage individually with their faith.
• Clearly focused on the Edmund Rice Charism through prayer and celebration, assembly, classroom prayer and reflection, and Joey’s Way lessons.

To provide for the formation of students in the Joey’s Way, our way of living out faith and the Edmund Rice charism, the College has: 

• Introduced explicit formation lessons within the Joey’s Way curriculum.
• Embedded scripture and the story of Edmund Rice in the Joey’s Way elaborations.
• Educated staff and students on the process of restorative practices and its alignment with our Catholic Identity and Edmund Rice charism.

Strategic Intent: As part of the life and mission of the Catholic Church, St Joseph’s College deeply commits to the formation of staff and students in the Jesus story and Edmund Rice charism. The St Joseph’s College community is empowered to critically inquire and explore faith in action for a lifelong engagement. 

Key Improvement Strategies: 

To provide further opportunities for students and staff to be involved in service, justice and peace, and advocacy projects, the College has: 

• Continued to strengthen links between Religious Education and the Religious Life of the School.
• Further engaged students and staff in leading and participating in prayer and liturgy.
• Begun the process of reviewing the College retreat program to ensure its relevance and validity in the context of RE, welfare, social justice, and faith development.
• Started to provide further opportunities for students and staff to be involved in social justice activities in the community.

A copy of the strategic plan is available to all families at the front office of the College, or on our St Joseph’s College website.

As you can see through the review of domain two, we have come a long way over the last three years and we have a lot to celebrate in our growth towards achieving our strategic intents across this domain. Congratulations again to all community members who have contributed, we look forward to continuing to engage with and embed these intents over the next twelve months and into the 2024 – 2028 SJC Strategic Plan.

Respectful Relationships

Fostering a nurturing environment of respectful relationships within your family holds the key to not only harmonious living, but also improved academic outcomes for your children. As parents and caregivers, embracing the art of teaching children about respect at a young age sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy interactions and empathetic understanding. It will help cultivate a positive environment where communication flourishes, conflicts are resolved constructively, and bonds are fortified.

Teaching children to respect themselves and others will open up avenues for both personal growth and academic achievement. Fostering an environment where respect is not just a word, but a practiced behaviour, will empower young people with essential life skills. Effective communication, active listening, and the art of compromise, will provide your child with a solid foundation that will transcend family interactions and help them collaborate effectively with peers, teachers and the broader community.

Equipping children with an understanding of healthy versus unhealthy relationships is an important aspect of their development. It will guide them to make informed choices, foster positive connections, and set boundaries that contribute to their emotional wellbeing. Understanding the nuances between healthy and unhealthy relationships provides children with the essential tools to navigate their social world, build self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful relationships.

In this edition of SchoolTV, learn how to empower young people in healthy interactions to embrace differences and forge connections that honour their self-worth. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to this month's edition https://sjc.qld.schooltv.me/newsletter/respectful-relationships

New smoke and vape-free public places and school carparks

As of 1 September 2023, smoking and vaping is prohibited in all school carparks. Smoking and vaping is already prohibited at public and private school facilities and in a 5-metre buffer zone extending from the boundary of the school. The new law extends the smoke and vape-free protection to include all carparks provided for school communities. This includes carparks located on council land that are intended for school community use. The smoke and vape-free requirements for schools always apply. This means school carparks are also smoke and vape-free areas outside of school hours, on weekends and in school holiday periods. The laws apply to all persons using a school carpark including students, teaching staff, parents and guardians of students, other employees of the school, visitors and persons providing a service or volunteering, clubs and organisations accessing school facilities. Thank you for your compliance with these laws.

Kort Goodman - Principal - KGoodman@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Deputy Principal

Transition Afternoons

Last week we held two afternoons to welcome our new Year 7 students in 2024. The purpose of the Transition afternoon is to:

• support and ease our new learners transition into our College;
• meet their House Leaders, Student Leaders, Curriculum Leaders, and other College staff;
• begin to develop a familiarity with the College; and
• meet and begin to build relationships with other new students.

Thanks to all the students who assisted to facilitate the afternoon sessions and to the teachers for organising this opportunity for new students and parents.

Ace Your Assessments with Determination

As the term reaches its peak with an array of assessments, it's essential for students to harness their inner determination and focus on their academic goals. The path to success is paved with hard work and dedication, and now is the time to showcase your potential. Remember, each assignment and exam is an opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and growth. Set achievable study goals, create a well-structured study plan, and maintain a healthy integration between school work and family time. While the road might seem challenging, your commitment and perseverance will undoubtedly lead you to triumph. Stay motivated, believe in your abilities, and watch as your efforts culminate into success.

Celebrate Father's Day

Amid the hustle and bustle of academic pursuits, let's not forget to honour a special figure in our lives. Father's Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the invaluable role of fathers and father figures, is just around the corner. Take a moment to express your gratitude and appreciation for the support and guidance they provide. Whether it's through a heartfelt message, a thoughtful gift, or spending quality time together, this day serves as a reminder of the love and bond shared with these remarkable individuals. On Thursday we held our Father’s Day Celebration event and we would like to thank everyone who attending this enjoyable evening.

Upcoming Events

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

From the Assistant Principal - Curriculum

Year 12 External Examinations

All year 12’s have received information from the College and QCAA about the upcoming External Examinations.

The external assessment timetable for 2023 is located here.

QCAA external assessment timetable 2023

QCAA has an excellent resource on the myQCE website called the “External Assessment Guide for students”.   This is found on the website https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au/external-assessment.html 

How can I prepare?

Senior syllabuses

General senior syllabuses provide information about external assessment for each subject.

Sample papers

View the sample papers for the subjects you study, to get an idea of what external assessment will be like. You can find them in the Assessment tab on each General syllabus page on the QCAA website.

Equipment

Each syllabus details the equipment you will need for the external assessment. It may include:

• Blue or black pens
• Pencils (2B)
• A sharpener
• A clear plastic ruler
• An eraser
• Approved calculator
• Specific equipment

On the day, students may bring your equipment in a clear container or zip-lock bag.  Students may also bring water in a clear unlabelled bottle.

Mobile phones, smart watches and/or other electronic devices will not be permitted in the examination room.

The External assessment equipment list (PDF, 175.3 KB) contains information about the approved equipment for all assessments, including calculators, student devices, subject-specific equipment and prohibited items.

The 2023 external assessments will be held from Monday 23 October to Tuesday 14 November.

Directions for students

External assessments are administered by schools in line with the QCAA’s requirements. Students must also follow the requirements outlined in the Directions for students (PDF, 243.1 KB).

Year 7 – 10 Report Cards

Interim reports will be emailed to families at the end of the term.

Please discuss with your son or daughter the overall grade and learning behaviours listed on the report card. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the classroom teacher.

Year 11

Students will receive an end of Unit 2 report card indicating whether they have successfully completed Unit 2 (satisfactory or unsatisfactory) in Week 4, Term 4.  Successful completion enables students to bank 1 credit point towards their QCE.  Students need to bank 20 points with 12 coming from completed core.  Academic care interviews for Year 11’s will occur early in 2023. For further information please refer to the QCAA website : https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/downloads/senior/snr_new_qce_system_parent_guide.pdf

Kerrie-Anne Fellenberg - Assistant Principal - Curriculum - KFellenberg@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Assistant Principal - Student Engagement

 What Does it Mean to Speak and Act Safely? 

 Each Imperative in The Joey’s Way is attached to two things: i) a piece of scripture and ii) The Personal and Social Capabilities as identified by the Australian Curriculum and Reporting Authority (ACARA). We connect our imperatives to scripture because they are an essential expression of our Catholic Identity in the Edmund Rice tradition. We also connect our imperatives to the Australian Curriculum because we know that if we live out our imperatives to the best of our ability, we’ll be great learners.  

The gospel of Matthew (6:8) calls us to speak and act safely: 

33 ‘Either make the tree good, and its fruit good; or make the tree bad, and its fruit bad; for the tree is known by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers! How can you speak good things, when you are evil? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. 35 The good person brings good things out of a good treasure, and the evil person brings evil things out of an evil treasure. 36 I tell you, on the day of judgement you will have to give an account for every careless word you utter; 37 for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.’ 

The proverb ‘a tree is known by its fruit’ means that our character or worth is determined by our actions and deeds. What we present to the world will reflect the strength of our values and who we are deep within. Quite simply, what is in our heart becomes our actions. 

If we are to judge a person, we must judge them by what we see in their actions and words. Jesus is teaching here of the connection between character and conduct. What we do is determined by what we are. We are being called in this passage to live out who we are and to work on being people of dignity and love. Our love for our community must be shown through how we speak and act and ensuring the safety of others in how we do so.  

Edmund Rice was known for his good communication. He clearly communicated his vision of education to the Christian Brothers, which spread from Ireland across the globe. His actions were also motivated by his value of the dignity of all human persons.  

Like Edmund, we must both act on our values and speak clearly. We wish to show all our community that they are welcome and valued. To do this we must value their safety through how we speak and act.  

Importantly, though, we must always remember that our actions and words should reflect the values of Joey’s Way. If we take these values to heart, we will find our actions align with the imperative of speaking and acting safely. Doing is the second step, being is the first. 

Speaking and Acting Safely Looks Like: 

• Safe conduct in the classroom 
• Keeping our hands to ourselves 
• Respecting other people’s boundaries and personal space 
• Wearing necessary protective clothing, including our hats 
• Safe use of technology  
• Following procedures and instructions 

Speaking and Acting Safely Sounds Like: 

• Respectful and polite manners 
• Calling teachers by their title and last name 
• Avoiding language that marginalises others on the basis of gender, race, religion or sexuality. 
• Speaking at the appropriate times 
• No swearing or derogatory remarks 
• Positive language  

Speaking and Acting Safely Feels Like: 

• Thoughtful decision making 
• Considering others  
• Considering other’s points of view 
• Knowing the procedures and rules 

Joseph Cryle - Assistant Principal - Student Engagement -  JCryle@sjc.qld.edu.au 

From the Assistant Principal - Religious Education

Fathers’ Day 

On Father’s Day, we honour and thank all the fathers/father figures in our lives.   

Each of us will have different stories to tell about what our fathers have meant to us. Sometimes it’s only when we look back that we see just how much they have done, how much they have given, and how much we can learn from their lives. 

Jesus had both a heavenly Father and an earthly father, Joseph.  Jesus called God ‘Father’ because Joseph was such a good example.  Through the love and care of Joseph, he got to know about the love and care of God. 

But maybe Jesus also had to look back to remember what Joseph had meant to him. 

He could say, ‘Because of my father, I was loved from the start; 

because of my father, my mother Mary was not shamed; 

because of my father, I learned a trade’ 

and many other things. 

So to all of our students, I encourage you to take a moment to look back and recognize all that your fathers and father figures have done. Sunday is the perfect opportunity to show your appreciation and gratitude for all that they do. 

Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful fathers in our school community, and thank you for all that you do. 

Prayer 

God our loving Father, 

You give more to us than we will ever know. 

Make us grateful for all your gifts and for all the fathers in our lives. 

Fatherhood does not come with a manual, and fathers learn and grow on the job.  
We ask for Your blessings for them all and forgiveness where it is needed. 
 
This Father's Day we remember the many sacrifices fathers make for their children and families, and the ways--both big and small--they lift children to achieve dreams thought beyond reach. 
 
So too, we remember all those who have helped fill the void when fathers pass early or are absent; grandfathers and uncles, brothers and cousins, teachers, mentors and coaches and the women of our families. 
 
For those who are fathers, we ask for wisdom and humility in the face of the task of parenting. Fill their hearts with love, humility, and openness. Give them the strength to do well by their children and by You. 

In Your Holy name, we pray. 
 
Amen. 

Kellie-Marie Ford - Assistant Principal - Religious Education  -  KFord@sjc.qld.edu.au 

Highly Accomplished Teacher - Maree Harman

Congratulations to Maree Harman, Economics Teacher and Career Development Practitioner at St Joseph's College, who has recently been certified by the Queensland College of Teachers as a Highly Accomplished Teacher.

Certification at this level formally recognises the abilities, experience, knowledge and skills of teachers and recognises and promotes quality teaching. It is designed to benefit all involved in the process, including the teacher, school leaders, education systems and, most importantly, students.

Maree would strongly recommend others undertake the HALT certification process as it is a rigorous, extensive and reflective professional development.  

"The certification process definitely supported my professional aspirations, both personally and professionally, validating and affirming my practice and impact. I have developed self-efficacy and confidence, which has enhanced my relational impact on students, colleagues, parents/carers, networks and the wider community. I have developed confidence in promoting the Career Pathways program, further embedding Career Education across the curriculum to align with the College’s Strategic Intent. The certification process has empowered me to lead a Career Education Program across the College and has affirmed my contribution to the learning culture of the College," said Maree. 

"It is a celebration and recognition of my accomplishments and I want to thank the St Joseph’s College community for supporting my Highly Accomplished Teacher Certification application."

Murphy Captains

Hello students, teachers, and parents! We are Olivia and Charlie, the 2023 Murphy House Captains.

A lot has happened for Murphy House in Term 3. We have achieved great success so far this year and would love to share this with the St Joseph’s College community.

At the beginning of the year, we had our college swimming carnival. After a grueling day of swimming and lots of cheering, Murphy House came out victorious. It was amazing to see the stands covered in blue and see everyone bring out their house spirit, even if we were robbed of the spirit award. It was even better seeing the new Year 7s getting involved in the war cries, showing what Murphy is all about. There are definitely some great future leaders. As always, it was entertaining to see the Grade 12 students get dressed up and bring the floaties out at their last ever swimming carnival.

Skipping over the athletics carnival, we had our cross country in Week 5. After a fantastic shave for a cure event that morning, our Murphy students put their endurance to the test and yet again brought home the win for the house, narrowly beating Brennan. Our participation as a house really brought us over the line which was very great to see after a lackluster performance at the athletics carnival.

We are both very proud of what we have achieved as a house and there are still many more things to come. On the 31st of August, Murphy House hosted our first ever annual Beyond Blue Day. This day focussed on mental health and the available support networks available. There was a sausage sizzle and fairy floss sold on the day alongside some gold coin games where you had the chance to win some prizes and merch. We were fortunate enough to have Headspace, Child Youth Mental Health and Inclusive Counselling come to the school and be able to provide insight into the importance of mental health along with providing support to any students who had any questions regarding mental health and wellbeing. The day ran alongside the St Joseph’s College Father’s Day celebration which meant there was a special focus on men’s mental health.

At the start of the year, we came up with a set of goals to challenge the house and encourage participation and attendance. As a house, we set 3 goals for the year: Win 2 carnivals, have an average attendance as a house of over 90% and the majority of JW’s have less than 15 uniform referrals per term. We are both very proud to say that with our recent cross country win we have ticked off our first goal and are well on track to knock off our other two goals.

We are both extremely honoured to have been the 2023 Murphy house captains and are immensely proud of what the house has achieved in the past school year. We look forward to seeing what else the house can achieve not only this year but also in the years to come. 

2023 Murphy Captains - Charlie Kruger and Olivia Reynolds

Rice House

We are now just past the three-quarter mark of the College year. Three quarters of the way through Term 3. A time where the weather is getting warmer, the holidays are getting closer, but the whips are cracking in terms of schoolwork. Year 12’s are sitting their trial external exams next week and the Year 7-11 exam calendar looks more packed than my suitcase on the way home from holidays.

We have seen some major successes in Rice House, with students participating in the College Musical, Athletics and Cross-Country. These days are a great opportunity for the students in Rice house to showcase their talents, but also is an opportunity for those who may not take the ‘centre stage’ to support their peers, by being an audience member or cheering from the sidelines.

This week at our Rice House meeting, we explored the concept of Compassion. Using the Edmund Rice Icon as a guide, we narrowed in on the ‘Heart of Christ’ which sits on the right-hand side of the icon and is represented through a dynamic heart which epitomised the source and outflow of the compassionate energy that Nano Nagle and Edmund Rice worked out of.

Being compassionate is sometimes very difficult, as a core value of the College, our imperatives call us to Use Empathy, Celebrate Diversity and Lead Through Service. Using Empathy and seeing something from another person’s perspective is a skill that we are always working on. After watching the short film ‘Snack Attack’ at our meeting, students have been challenged to work hard on being compassionate to those around them, especially during this incredibly busy time. Hoping that we don’t regret any of our actions like the old lady in the short film.

Waterford Challenge Update

Rice House JW’s have been fighting for the Waterford Challenge through their engagement in both House and College activities throughout 2023. The final winner will be announced at our last house assembly before we farewell our Year 12 students in Term 4.

See below for a points update from the activities in Term 3.  

Attendance

A key component of the Waterford Challenge is attendance, data is collected on specific days such as College Feast Days, Athletics Carnival etc. As well as the last day of each term. A 90% attendance rate over 13 years of schooling will result in a full year of missed learning.

Staff within the Student Engagement Team have been working hard with JW teachers and students to improve students’ attendance rates to our College goal of 95%. You may also receive an email from the College offering the opportunity to meet with your child’s House Leader to discuss a plan to support their increased attendance.

Should you have any questions or be concerned about your child’s attendance please contact the relevant house leader.

Further information and support for parents regarding attendance can be found below.

School Refusal | St Joseph's College - Toowoomba (schooltv.me)

For parents and the community (education.qld.gov.au)

Thomas Moore - Student Engagement Middle Leader - Rice House  - tmoore@sjc.qld.edu.au

Sport

Final of SSI Red Lions for Boys

We had an exciting and closely contested football match in the final of the SSI Red Lion competition at Centenary Heights.

After the regular 30-minute halves, the score was tied at 1 all. To determine a winner, the game went into extra time, with 5 minutes played in each direction. However, during this extra time, the score remained 1-1, with both team defending well and neither able to break the tie.

Since neither team could secure a victory during this extra time, the game was ultimately decided through a penalty shootout. This puts immense pressure on the goal keepers and shooters. Unfortunately, it didn’t go our way and we lost 3 goals to 1.

It was so disappointing for the boys to lose in this manner, but they put up a strong effort throughout the match and deserve so much credit for a brilliant effort.

We had one win though, as Kaden Willmot was awarded the ‘man of the match’ for his outstanding effort and sportsmanship throughout the game. A true credit to him.

Darling Downs Trials Athletics

After the recent track and field trials held at Glennie (Track) and O’Quinn Street (Field), congratulations to Rheanna Hart who has qualified in the 15 years girls long and triple jump events. She finished first in the long jump with a jump of 4.94m and second in the triple jump with a 10.05m jump. She also competed in the javelin and finished a commendable 4^th.

Dusty Mathews also competed at the track trials finishing in 3^rd place in the 400m but unfortunately, he missed the qualifying time and missed out on making the team.

Joey’s Eagles U15 Boys Basketball Team

The boys have been competing in the TBA U15 Boys competition in Term 3 and 4, and finished 5^th, with a record of 7 wins and 6 losses.

It has been great to see their skills improve, their teamwork develop and their sportsmanship on the court shine through.

Back: Jasper Pack, Tobi Willey, Oliver Foley, Aiden Carroll, Xavier Byrne (Coach)

Front: Jarrod Hayes, Lucan Byrne, Mitch Ryan

Absent: Rocco Feurer

Of course, we must thank Xavier Byrne for his time and effort

in coaching the boys as well as a big thank you to Ms Morrison

for attending on behalf of the college to allow the boys to

play in this competition.

Ms Morrison

Queenslander – 12 years Softball

We have been informed that Maddow Jackson has just been announced in the Under 12 years Queensland Softball team for school sport after competing in the State Championships at the Sunshine Coast last week. He will now travel to Adelaide in November to attend the National Championships.

Maddox and his team also bought home the silver medal which is also very impressive. Maddox has a very proud mum and dad.

Wednesday Night Netball

During terms 2 and 3, three of our netball teams have been developing their skills and playing competitively in the Wednesday Competition at Glennie. We have one team left in the competition and they will play in the grand final next week after defeating Ninja’s in the major semifinal on Wednesday night. Times will be posted on notices once it is released but we hope we can get support for the girls from fellow students here at the College.

Upcoming Events and Trials

Toowoomba trials for DD 15 boys cricket trials - DUE DATE: 3pm Friday, September 15, 2023

Darling Downs Trial 13 – 14 years boys and girls futsal trials – due date: September 15.

Darling Downs 2024 Triathlon trials – nominations close October 24.

Futsal Competition - in Term 4 (and Term 1), school Futsal at Glennie will be moving to Monday afternoons/evenings.

If you are interested in registering a team to play, please let Miss Newton know. 

This comp is open to girls from grades 7 - 12 and will run for 6 weeks starting on the second week back in term 4. Cost and divisions TBC., but there will be a social element to the season.

Toowoomba Anglican School will be hosting a five-week Boys Inter School 5-A-Side Netball Competition for schools and individual students in Term Four. This competition is an opportunity for both experienced and beginner players to learn to play netball while developing new and transferable skills and having fun. The College would really like to put a team in as part of the development of a boys’ team in the QISSN netball competition for Townsville in 2024. Cost $20.00 for individual players or $100.00 for a team.

Debbie Newtown - Program Leader - Sport - DNewton@sjc.qld.edu.au

Connecting with Careers

Saturday 9 September 2023

Toowoomba Jobs, Careers & Skills Expo, 12 October 2023

• Date: 12 October 2023
• Time: Between 9.00am-3.00pm
• Venue: The Goods Shed, 3 Victoria Street.
• Reason: This jobs expo is open to all job seekers across the Toowoomba Region.

Open to students who are looking to secure employment either after graduation this year or those looking for after school hours work. McDonalds and Hungry Jacks have confirmed they are conducting interviews on the day so please ensure students bring along a resume if possible.

Click here for more information

Studying Economics

Year 11 and 12 Student Webinar

If you are studying, or even just interested in Economics, register for the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) Year 11 and 12 student webinar at 4pm on Wednesday, 13 September 2023.

An RBA economist will discuss monetary policy and share the latest developments in Australian and global economies.  You will also have the opportunity to ask questions.

Register directly here.  The webinar will also be recorded for students unable to attend on the day.

New video:  Summary of Current Economic Conditions

The RBA has also just released their latest ‘Summary of Current Economic Conditions’ video, which presents an update on the Australian economy for high school students.

It draws on key data from the RBA’s August Statement on Monetary Policy, and presents it in a digestible format featuring annotations on key graphs.

Young ChangeMakers program – Applications closing soon

Year 11 students are invited to apply for the UQ Young ChangeMakers program, an immersive four-day on-campus experience for students with big ideas. Students will engage in an interactive program of faculty experiences, inspirational presenters and leadership workshops whilst getting a taste of university life.

Fee waivers and travel bursaries are available for students experiencing financial hardship.

Date: Sunday 26 - Wednesday 29 November

Applications close: Sunday 3 September

Register now

Trust me, I'm an Engineer - online presentation

The 'Trust Me, I'm an Engineer' online presentation series has been developed for high school students, parents, guardians, and current UQ engineering students to offer insights into the diverse opportunities in engineering. Throughout the presentation we talk to engineers making an impact in industry and students sharing their university experiences and journey so far. 

Date: Monday 9 October
Time: 4:00pm - 5:30pm
Register now

Invitation to Parent Information Evening at Southern Cross University

SCU are pleased to invite students and their parents to our upcoming Parents Information Evening at Southern Cross University.

With online and in person sessions across their campuses, attendees will gain valuable insights into our programs, campus facilities, and support services.

It's an excellent opportunity for parents to gather information and ask about their child's educational journey with us.

Online Webinar: Wednesday 6th September, 6pm - 7pm

Register now

Career quiz to give you some ideas

Career quizzes are not designed to give you a definite answer about what you should do but they can give you some fresh ideas to research. Explore Careers free quiz will help you discover the Australian industries and careers that you can research. The quiz results will tell you about companies that you could work for. Click here to start the quiz.  

Hard Skills vs. Soft Skills

In job descriptions, employers often ask for a combination of hard and soft skills. Hard skills are related to specific technical knowledge and training while soft skills are personality traits such as leadership, communication, or time management. Both types of skills are necessary to successfully perform and advance in most jobs. Click here to read the indeed article including:  

• What’s the difference between hard skills and soft skills?
• What are hard skills?
• Hard skills list
• What are soft skills?
• Soft skills list
• How to include hard and soft skills on a resume
• How to highlight your skills throughout the interview process

Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance 2024 - Open

Enrolments for the 2024 Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance program are now open.

Important information to consider when enrolling:

• The Certificate II in ALM is a fully government funded course.
• The course is available to year 10 and 11 students only.
• Students can gain up to 4 QCE points.
• Additional course information can be found here.
  

Contact the Career Pathways Team if you’re interested in this opportunity.

2024 TAFE at School program Applications are now open! 

Eligible courses include: 

More information can be found here: Darling Downs and South West Course Guide 

How to Apply 

To apply for the 2024 TAFE at School Programs, students will need to: 

• Go to com
• Enter the application code TQSW2401 
   

Please note: TAFE are expecting a very high level of interest in this program, and they cannot guarantee that all applicants will receive an offer of place. 

What happens next? 

Offers of Place will be sent to eligible students, parents, and guardians in Term 4. You are encouraged to accept by the deadline. 

 School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship Vacancies
Certificate III in Health Administration – Middle Ridge Family Practice – Year 10, 11, 12 students

• Certificate III in Business – Blooming Gorgeous, and Middle Ridge Family Practice – Year 10 & 11
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery – Lily’s Artisan – Year 11 & 12
• Certificate III Commercial in Cookery or SIT30622 Certificate III in Hospitality – Rak Thai Kitchen
• Certificate III in Business – Max & Betty - Year 10, 11, 12
• Certificate III in Business – Subway, Patty smiths, Noodle Box, Pacific Fuels, Bakery Cakery – Year 10, 11 students

Check out the latest School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship vacancies here: https://www.sjccareers.com.au/for-students/current-opportunities & https://www.sjccareers.com.au/for-students/current-opportunities

Year 12 opportunities

• Full time Apprenticeship Opportunity – TMR/RoadTek Toowoomba Based - Certificate III in Engineering – Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic.
• Apprentice Motor Mechanic – Ultra Tune Toowoomba West
• QBuild Apprentice Positions –Carpentry, refrigeration mechanic, electrical, painting, and plumbing
• Certificate III in Engineering - Fixed and Mobile Plant Mechanic - Programmed Skilled Workforce.pdf
• Bizgro Accounting Career Opportunity
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery – Lily’s Artisan Crow’s News
• Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade – Resto Beat
• Certificate III in Cabinet Making – Weston Kitchens

For all current Year 12 opportunities, click here:  https://sjc.instructure.com/courses/4228

A reminder that you can visit sjccareers to signup for the newsletter, Connecting with Careers.  To keep up-to-date with upcoming career events, click here.  To subscribe to newsfeeds, click here.

For more information please contact the Careers Team.

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

Charlotte Penner - Careers Support Officer  -  cpenner@sjc.qld.edu.au

Cultural

CO-CURRICULAR ENSEMBLES and CHOIRS:

It is never too late to join in one of our ensembles or choirs. Now is a particularly great time to join a choir to be a part of our end of year performances. I’d encourage any student, even if they are unsure at this stage, to come along and have a sing at a rehearsal to test it out. Miss Scott, Mr Maskell and Mrs Michael are working on some fun repertoire. Students are welcome to just come along to rehearsal to see what it’s all about. Music rehearsal times are published weekly in Sentral notices.

There are also places available in the instrumental tuition program with the use of College instruments for Term 4. Please see me in the music office or e-mail if you would like further information or have any questions.

MUSIC RECITAL – WEEK 10

The Music Department will be hosting its Term 3 Music Recital on Wednesday 13 September, 5pm, (Week 10). These concerts are open to all music students who wish to take the opportunity to perform a solo for a friendly and supportive audience and show what they have been working on this term. Students do not have to be learning their instrument or voice from a tutor at the College to take part. Sign-ups are available on the music noticeboard and music office.

MUSIC OPPORTUNITIES

We have received information for 2 upcoming opportunities through the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. Contact open-conservatorium@griffith.edu.au for more information.

1. Jazz Weekend 2023 - Friday 15 September - Sunday 17 September

Jazz Weekend is open to primary, secondary and tertiary students - who have at least 2 years of experience (AMEB 2 and above) up to advanced performance levels.

The weekend focuses on Jazz Ensembles and Big Band, along with instrument tutorials, an open rehearsal (plus Q & A) with The Con Artists and Dr Stephen Newcomb plus a Jazz Elective Session including improvisation, sight-reading and rhythm sections.

1. Young Con 2024 applications are now open.

Based at Queensland Conservatorium's Southbank campus, young conservatorium offers both one-to-one programs and also the opportunity to join one of their larger ensembles.

You can choose from the following offerings: 
Guitar. Piano. Woodwind. Music Technology.
Brass. Strings. Percussion. Choir. Early Childhood Music.
First round of applications will close on Monday 2 October 2023.

Rosanne Pietsch - Program Middle Leader - Cultural  - RPietsch@sjc.qld.edu.au

Library

Happy Book Week! Our library this year was transformed by the Year 12 VAP students whose awesome artwork was displayed in the library to celebrate our selected texts. A huge thank you to everyone who participated in our JW code cracker challenge and our lunchtime activities to make the week a fun celebration of literacy and reading!

We also had our lunchtime activities running throughout the week. Students could participate in creating invisible ink messages, lamington making and our art activity, run by Mrs Dwyer, where students added their favourite book to the display at the front entrance of the library. Our Book-in-a-jar competition stumped students with many very close but not 100%, good luck next year! Finally, congratulations to our bookmark competition winners and highly commended for their artwork!

The week was brought to a close on Thursday with our annual dress up day and Book Week Parade. Staff and students donned an amazing array of costumes to transform into their favourite characters. The outfits this year were wonderful and made for fierce competition at the parade as the judges struggled to decide who had the best costume! Congratulations to our winners below.

Staff Category:

Middle School Category (Years 7-9)

Senior Category (Years 10-12)

Group Costume (Staff or student):

Bookmark Competition:

Rebecca Bastion - Curriculum Leader - Literacy Improvement  - RBastion@sjc.qld.edu.au

SJC - Community News

Our Parent Business Directory has begun and you may see some of our parents business in our column beside our newsletter! We would like to include more businesses. If you would like to be featured please send through any deatils and/or business graphics to: marketing@sjc.qld.edu.au

Uniform Shop

EFTPOS only - No Cash accepted until further notice.

Spring is here and what beautiful weather we are having.

The shop will be open on the holidays on Friday 29^th September 9am – 1pm.

All summer uniform items are available in store

The new All Purpose Weather Jacket is now available in store for $99.00

Missing your hat band $12.00

Hair Accessories $10-12

Orders can be made online, paid for over the phone and all orders can be delivered to student entrance for your child to collect from there.

Online orders can also be delivered to your home for a fee.

Online ordering is available at all times and will only be packed during shop trading hours.

Out of stock:

Senior White Boys Shirt Sz 16

Please contact the uniform shop on the below details:

Phone:           07 4631 8514

Email:             sjct@midford.com.au

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.