Newsletter - Term 4 - Week 6 - Issue 114

From the Acting Principal

Communication Protocols

We would like to take a moment to explain the importance of our communication guidelines. As educators, we believe in fostering a healthy balance for our dedicated teachers, while ensuring effective and timely communication with parents and students alike. By setting a 2-business day turnaround for communication, we aim to provide thorough and thoughtful responses to inquiries. This timeframe allows teachers to provide careful consideration to queries and provide well-rounded solutions. Additionally, we have established the hours of 6am to 6pm as the designated communication window for staff to respond to queries. We have requested that teachers refrain from emailing students and parents outside of these hours to foster a sustainable and healthy teaching environment. Thank you for your understanding and support in upholding these communication expectations. Together, we can create an environment where effective communication thrives, while respecting the personal boundaries of our dedicated educators.

Year 12 Final Week

Next week the spotlight will be firmly on the Seniors of 2023 who will conclude their time at the College. Over the week they have many farewells including their Celebration Day with their cohort, their Joey’s Way group farewells, Presentation Night for 2023 and they conclude the week with their Graduation Assembly and Valedictory Mass and Dinner.

These farewells are a sign, that over the time that each of the students of the 2023 senior cohort spent at St Joseph’s College, they became a part of a community and their departure creates a sense of loss for us and quite possibly for them. We would hope that all the senior cohort would acknowledge that their time at the College has had a positive impact on their lives to date and will assist them in the future. An important role all of us can fulfil is to hold these young people in our prayers. They all have such huge potential to make a difference to our society.

Finally, I want to wish the Year 12 students every possible blessing in their lives and ask them to remember that their loving God is walking every step of the way with them. Best wishes Year 12 students take care and remember that no matter what challenges lay ahead of you into the future, you are always a past student of St Joseph’s College, and you are always welcome.

Art Show

On Thursday 9 November we held our annual Art Show. The evening was a great celebration of a variety of the cultural pursuits of our St Joseph’s College students from Yr 7-12. Congratulations to all students who had works featured in the annual Art Show. We thank the Arts and Hospitality Teams for their co-ordinated efforts, in particular, Mrs Chrissy Dwyer, Miss Aleesha Deagon, Ms Rosanne Pietch, Ms Megan Scott, Miss Jess Skinner and Mrs Nina Marshall.

Congratulations to the below students on their awards from the Art Show:

• Judge’s Choice Junior (Yr 7-10) –  __Yr 10 student Layla Kuehnemann
• Judge’s Choice Senior (Yr 11/12)–  Yr 11 Visual Art student Isabel O'DEMPSEY
• Principal’s Choice -Junior –  Yr 10 student Eva Madden
• Principal’s Choice -Senior –  Yr 12 Visual Arts student Erlan Paulo Mirabueno
• People’s Choice - Yr 7 Ashley McKenzie

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Teacher Showcase

St Joseph’s College has a rigorous and robust Professional Learning Framework. Staff participate in weekly professional learning teams, engaging with impact cycles to improve student outcomes and build self and collective efficacy. In 2023, our professional learning journey culminated in a Twilight Sharing Showcase (Tuesday 7 November), which celebrated our successes as a community of learners. Thanks to all the SJC teachers for your collegiality and sharing the learning journey.

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Remembrance Day

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month marks the moment the guns fell silent on the Western Front after the bloodshed of World War I. Over the past century, this moment has been adopted across the globe as a time to remember those who served and sacrificed in all wars and conflicts. St Joseph’s College students will engage in a reflection during their Joey’s Way lessons in recognition of those who have served, died, or suffered in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. We give thanks, remember and show respect for those who lost their lives at war so that we can enjoy the peace and freedom that exists in Australia today. 

Year 7-11 Final Assignments and Examinations

I wish all learners at the College the best of luck as they complete their final assignments for 2023 over the coming weeks. I trust that all students are studying hard to complete final assignments and to prepare thoroughly for these examinations. For Year 7-10, grades received for Semester 2 assessments will be communicated on their final end of year reports for 2023. 

Schoolies and Safe Parties

At this time every year parties and school leaver activities can be an important part of a teenager’s social life. Some school leavers will be attending Schoolies events and it is a good idea for parents and young people to talk about alcohol, drugs, and parties.

Schoolies

Whilst Schoolies is about fun, drugs and alcohol can result in diminished fun and potential harm to young people during this time. Ideally school leavers will avoid alcohol and drugs to create good memories instead of bad ones. Much fun and celebration can still be had without any influence of drugs and alcohol.

To support school leavers to make good choices at Schoolies parents are encouraged to discuss with their young people:

• The plan for the week - find out about activities before leaving home.  
• An activity plan that doesn’t have a focus on alcohol and drugs.
• The legal ramifications of alcohol and drug use - legally, young people could face fines for possessions and/or trafficking if found in possession of a ‘trafficable quantity’ of drugs.
• Future safeguarding - having a criminal record can restrict future opportunities in life.
• Driving - young people on their learners or probationary driving licences must maintain a zero blood-alcohol level. Never travel with a drinker.
• Drugs - during Schoolies young people may come across synthetic drugs which mimic the effects of common illegal drugs. These are often ‘pushed’ to young people as ‘herbal’, ‘party pills’, ‘bath salts’. Far from being benign, these are often more unpredictable than the illegal drugs and should be strenuously avoided, as should illegal drugs.
• Drink Spiking – avoid sharing drinks and vigilantly watch drinks to avoid the risk of spiking. If there is a suspicion that a drink is spiked just leave it.
• Physical safety - report all threats of violence to police and trust your instincts about physical safety.   
• Energy drinks - don’t mix energy drinks and alcohol.
• Water safety - don’t drink and swim.
• Being an upstander - plan for the safety of self and friends. Don’t hesitate to call an ambulance if anyone looks like they have had a bad reaction to any substance – call 000.
• Help friends make good decisions and avoid risky situations. Plan activities that can be done together.
• Mental health – drugs and alcohol can exacerbate mood disturbances. Have a plan to support your Schoolie’s mental health while away.
• Stay hydrated with water.
• Consent – pressuring someone into having non-consensual sexual activity is sexual assault and illegal.  

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

From the Acting 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: 13 November 2023. 5:30pm arrivals for 6:30pm start  

Where: Empire Theatre Toowoomba  

Tickets: Free.  

Orientation Day 

On Thursday 2 November we welcomed our 2024 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 had 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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Drop Off/Pick Up Zone - Friday 17 November  

Please note that due to the ongoing works to upgrade the Car Park and Bus Shelter the student Drop Off/Pick Up zone on Friday 17 November will be closed in the morning 

We ask that you please find an alternative sport to drop your student/s off this day. 

The Drop Off/Pick Up zone will be reopened the same day for afternoon pick ups. 

Upcoming Events  

Kellie-Marie Ford - Acting Deputy Principal  -  kford@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Assistant Principal - Student Engagement

Lockers and Locks in 2024 

Next year, the process for providing students with lockers and locks will be slightly different. Please note the following points: 

• New Year 7 students will be provided with a lock. This will remain their lock for the duration of their time at St Joseph’s. 
• Current Year 7 to 11 students will be asked to take their lock home for the holidays and return with it for the commencement of the 2024 school year. 
• All students will be required to clean out their locker at the conclusion of this year. All lockers will be reallocated in 2024. 
• Once a student has been allocated their locker number, they are welcome to access that locker and lock it with their own lock.  
• Any material found in lockers before locker number notification will be removed. Please do not place your belongings in any locker other than your own.  
• Year 7 students will have their own process for ‘moving in’ to their lockers during Orientation Week. There is no requirement for 2024 Year 7 students to access their locker before the first day of the year.  

Process for Leaving Class 

Our primary reason for coming to school each day is to learn. Nobody in our community would disagree with this statement. Sometimes, our students may be challenged by a desire to leave the classroom. In many cases, there are good reasons for this. Nonetheless, it’s important that all students, staff, parents and guardians have clarity on the process for leaving class. 

In order to minimise time out of class, all students should: 

1. Have a water bottle. This prevents them leaving the classroom if they are thirsty 
2. Using facilities such as toilets at break times. That is, before the bell rings.  
3. Remaining mindful that the main role of student at the College is to be in class, every lesson, for the whole lesson.  

If a student has a genuine and urgent reason for leaving the classroom, they should take the following steps: 

1. Raise their hand and respectfully request to leave the room. Students with a red card may use their red card to communicate this request to their teacher.  
2. Present their diary for signing by the teacher, this enables appropriate record keeping which maximises student supervision and safety. 
3. Students must leave their phone on the teacher’s desk; this drastically reduces the possibility of a student becoming further distracted while out of class. 
4. Students should use the bathroom as quickly as possible and ask their teacher to sign the diary upon returning.  
5. Students should then plan to catch up on missed work. 
6. Students must remain mindful that regular exits from class erode trust and negatively impact learning. Teachers may wish to have a follow up conversation with students if they become concerned about frequent exits from class. 

Please also note that the Ignatius Room no-longer accepts self-referrals. If students do not believe they can be in class, they need to go the sick bay. 

Thank you in anticipation of your support as we work to maximise safety and learning at St Joseph’s College.  

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

From the Acting Assistant Principal - Religious Education

The Significance of Rituals 

In Week 7, we will celebrate the journey and achievements of our 2023 Year 12 cohort. This week is an opportunity for our College to thank our Year 12s for all they have contributed during their time at St Joseph’s. It is also an opportunity to farewell them as they embark on the next part of their journeys. 

Rituals help us to recognise the changes in our lives and mark occasions when our role in the community is changing. 

Currently, our Year 12s are in a liminal stage. Liminal stages are times when a person or a group is in the process of transition.  

Our Year 12s stand on the threshold. They are almost ready to transition to the next stage of their journey. Next week, we will celebrate in our ritual as they cross the threshold from school student to graduate. 

In Joey’s Way lessons this week, students are learning about the power of rituals like Graduation and the many symbols we use to create meaning. 

Some of the significant symbols are: 

• Hands of Blessing – We raise our hands over the seniors as we pray for them. 

• Guard of Honour – A tunnel of the community that our seniors walk through at the end of their farewell assembly. 

• College Candle & House Candles 

• Senior Tie 

• The School Song 

Prayer for our Graduating Students 

Father God, 

 We thank you for these graduating students. 

 We pray that you will give them 

 direction, purpose, and perseverance 

 as they enter the next phase of their lives. 

 Give them clearness of mind to move forward 

 into the plans and purposes that You have for them. 

 May these young people gain wisdom from You 

 and have discernment for proper behaviour. 

 Raise up mentors for these graduates 

 so they have someone who 

 holds them accountable for their actions. 

 We pray that they will have the boldness 

 to stand up for what is right 

 wherever they work, study, or socialize. 

 Give them wisdom to spend their time and money wisely. 

 Grant them success for their efforts at every turn 

 and guide their feet to follow Your ways. 

 May they be eager to do good and not evil 

 all the days of their lives. 

 Use them in mighty ways. 

 In Jesus name, 

 Amen. 

Presentation Night – An Opportunity to Live the Joey’s Way 

In Week 7, we will also symbolically recognise students’ achievements in our Presentation Night on Monday 13 November, 6:30pm at the Empire Theatre. 

Within the structure of the evening, the College will recognise students who have demonstrated our Joey’s Way imperatives, particularly ‘Aspire to Excellence’. The awards cover all aspects of College life and we will also have special awards across each of these areas. 

• Engagement and Leadership 

• Cultural 

• Sport 

• Spiritual 

• Academic 

This event is an opportunity for students to demonstrate the Joey’s Way imperatives. 

Be Proud, Be Humble 

• Uniform: Full academic uniform (with the blazer if you have one). 

• Attend the event to show my pride in my peers and St Joseph’s College. 

Be Punctual and Prepared 

• Arrive at all the events on time. 

• Stay until dismissal. 

Celebrate Diversity 

• Celebrate the many achievements by clapping at the end of each section. 

Leave it Better than you Found it 

• Ensure you take all your belongings and any rubbish with you as you leave the events. 

• Help to tidy up by doing your small part. 

I look forward to this wonderful evening celebrating how our community has lived our Edmund Rice charism through endeavour, compassion, respect and dignity. 

Thomas Moore - Acting Assistant Principal - Religious Education  -  tmoore@sjc.qld.edu.au

Rice House

This term has been filled with lots of emotions as we farewell the Year 12 students of SJC for 2023. During Week 3, Rice House acknowledged and celebrated our Year 12 students by presenting them with small gift on behalf of their Joey's Way classes. We touched on the past six years and the journey they have ahead. We wished them the very best in their endeavours and thanked them for their contributions to Rice House and for upholding our motto of a ‘Gentle Strength’. Blaise and Eliza did a wonderful job as House leaders this year, as they embraced the Rice House spirit and led by example.

During our House Assembly, Blaise and Eliza had the privilege of handing over the Rice Symbols and leadership to Emily Grey and Liam Teakle – our 2024 Rice Captains. Emily and Liam have made an enthusiastic start, being a massive help during Orientation Day last week. I look forward to seeing how they progress as leaders and guide Rice House to a successful 2024 year.  

Lastly, I want to emphasise how important it is to finish the 2023 year strong. As we near the end of term 4, I encourage you all to embrace these last few weeks with a positive mindset. This term, like the others, has had its share of challenges, but your resilience and determination have carried you through. Let’s conclude the term with a commitment to excellence in our attendance, grades, and behaviour. 

Elle Moss - Acting Student Engagement Middle Leader - Brennan House  - EMoss@sjc.qld.edu.au

Sport

Year 7/8 AAG Basketball Competition

The final sporting competition was conducted on the weekend when three of our teams competed in the AAG Year 7/8 basketball tournament.

It was a challenging competition at The Glennie School but a great day for all teams involved. Despite facing tough competition, the players displayed determination and sportsmanship throughout the games.

The boys’ teams, coached by Xavier Byrne and Hayden Maripa, faced challenges in Division 2 and Division 1 respectively.

The Division 2 team, despite their efforts, struggles against taller opponents in their games against TAS (lost 40 to 12) and Mary MacKillop College (lost 39 to 11).

The Division 1 team also faced formidable opponents in Mary MacKillop College (lost 47 to 23) and St Mary’s College (lost 52 – 15), making it clear that they have some work ahead to prepare for the Friday Night competition in Term 1, 2024.

On the other hand, the girls’ team had a mixed performance, with a close loss against Fairholme College (13 – 5) and Glennie (lost 18 – 13). They managed to secure a victory against Mary MacKillop College, ending the day on a positive note.

It is evident that the players and their coaches put in a lot of effort and dedication, and it is great to see the acknowledgment of the support from Xavier Byrne, Hayden Maripa and Mrs Lawrence, highlighting the importance of teamwork and collaboration with the sports community. With the experience gained from these games, the teams have valuable lessons to carry into their future competitions.

Darling Downs Congratulations

The triathlon and aquathon events have been run and students have been selected in the 2024 teams.

After competing at the trials at Kawana a couple of weeks ago, we congratulate Riley Bryant on his successful achievement in being selected in the Darling Downs 13 – 19 years triathlon team to compete in Harvey Bay in February next year.

Congratulations also to his brother Samuel who was successful in being selected in the 10 – 12 years aquathlon team for 2024. Samuel will also compete in Harvey Bay in February next year. Samuel will join us as a member of our College next year as a year 7 student and wish them both the best of luck.

Teams for 2024

At the commencement of 2024 some competitions get off the ground very quickly.

Futsal 

• Wednesday nights at USQ – 13 years, 15 years, and open boys
• Wednesday night at Glennie – 13 years, 15 years, and open girls.

Cricket

The competition to run first 6 – 7 weeks of Term 1 – open team and u14/15 team. Games would probably be on a Wednesday commencing at 2.30pm and conclude around 5.30pm.

Students interested in these competitions should email Miss Newton as soon as possible to confirm team nominations.

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

Connecting with Careers

As we approach the end of the year, many of our students are considering their post-school pathways.

In this newsletter, we are focusing on:

• 2024 Work Experience
• UniSQ Year 10 Discovery Day
• Financial Literacy
• ADF Information Sessions
• SBA vacancies
• Financial Assistance and Scholarships
• QTAC and Tertiary Entry

As a reminder, St Joseph’s College has a careers website, sjccareers, that has resources available, not just for students’ career planning, but for parents/carers to help support their child’s career development. 

2024 Year 10 Work Experience Information Evening

Thank you to students and families who attended the 2024 Year 10 Work Experience Information Evening.  For those students who were unable to attend, you can collect your Work Experience Information pack from your JW teacher.

UniSQ Year 10 Discovery Day

The UniSQ Year 10 Discovery Day is being held on Tuesday, 14 November 2023.  This event will provide students with an opportunity to explore the variety of career pathways available to them.

Thank you to the Year 10 students who have expressed interest in participating in this upcoming event.  

Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is an important life skill.  By working in partnership with students and parents/carers our aim is to educate students about financial matters, so that they can make informed decisions, set goals and build a strong foundation for their future financial wellbeing.

Financial literacy might sound boring, but it’s an essential enterprise skill that empowers you to access opportunities, navigate financial complexities, and reach your financial goals.

What exactly is financial literacy?

Financial literacy is the combination of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and confidence that equips you to make informed financial decisions, manage money effectively, and cultivate positive financial behaviours.

Why does it matter?

Financial literacy is a life skill that enhances your overall wellbeing and confidence as you transition to life beyond school, and it matters to young people:

Australia's financial literacy declined between 2016 to 2020, and is lowest among 15-24-year-olds, according to the 2022 HILDA survey.

A Year13 audience survey found that 87% of young people felt they lacked financial literacy, with 91% wanting assistance, and the Gen Z Wellbeing  Check found that 38% felt money negatively impacted their sense of wellbeing.

How can I improve my financial literacy?

Financial literacy isn’t something we’re born with, it’s something we must be taught and make the effort to learn. Luckily, there are great free resources to it make easier:

Australian Taxation Office

The ATO has a suite of resources called Tax, Super + You and they even run an annual competition for Year 7-12s! To access the student zone, you’ll need a class code from a teacher.

Money Smart website

The moneysmart website is a trusted source of easy-to-understand information about banking and budgeting; loans, credit and debt; investing and planning; super and retirement, insurance, and scams and online safety. If you’re not sure where to start, the student life and money section has relevant advice.

Australian Defence Force (ADF)

For details about the following events and more information on Army Reserve Information Sessions, visit the Defence Jobs Australia Facebook site. or visit the ADF's Upcoming Events page.

31/10/2023        Townsville: Army Careers Information Session

01/11/2023        Monto: Defence Careers Information Session

                             Gold Coast: Defence Careers Information Session

02/11/2023        Gayndah: Defence Careers Information Session

04/11/2023        Southport: Army Reserve Open Day

08/11/2023        Cairns: Defence Careers Information Session

09/11/2023        Aviation Careers Information Session

                              Toowoomba: Defence Careers Information Session

15/11/2023        Townsville: Defence Careers Information Session

Year 12 job opportunities

Year 12 job opportunities are listed on our website and the Career Pathways Canvas course.

If you are interested in an apprenticeship or traineeship, please apply to Golden West here https://www.goldenwest.org.au/ or contact Amanda Ruhle at aruhle@goldenwest.org.au to schedule work experience or an interview. 
 
If you have any questions or want to search for positions, please contact the Career Pathways Team today!

School Based Apprenticeship Opportunities

• Certificate III in Hairdressing - Lavya Hair Design and Minx
• Certificate III Hospitality - Piccolo Papa
• Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanic- Southern Stars Air Conditioning and Electrical
• Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care - Grow Early Education
• Certificate III in Cylinder Head Reconditioning - Tonka Engines
• Certificate III in Meat Processing – Millers Gourmet Meats
• Certificate III in Business – Year 10 & 11
  • Zarraffa’s coffee
  • Blooming Gorgeous
  • Subway
  • Pattysmith’s
  • IGA
  • Bakery Cakery
  • Noodle Box
  • Pacific Fuels
  • Red Rooster
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery – Lily’s Artisan – Year 11 & 12
• Certificate III Commercial in Cookery & Certificate III in Hospitality – Rak Thai Kitchen
• Certificate II Wall and Ceiling Lining – BBC Construction
• Certificate III in Carpentry – BBC Construction
• Certificate III in Carpentry – ADW Carpentry – in 2024

For more information about the latest School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship vacancies click here.

Financial Assistance and Scholarships

ACU Scholarships and fee information

ACU offers a range of scholarships and fee information for commencing students ranging from academic achievement to supporting equality. There are nearly 400 scholarships on offer. Some scholarships contribute a one-off payment, while others provide support for each year of your degree. You can apply for as many scholarships as you want. View the available scholarships and fees structure here. Make sure you submit applications by the due date as some scholarships have already closed.

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Uni Scholarship for rural and regional students

2024 applications for scholarships open on 1 December 2023 and successful recipients will be notified early in 2024. What you need to know:

• This Scholarship is for students living in rural and regional Australia.
• Any subject can be studied under this scholarship provided that it is at undergraduate bachelor’s degree level in an approved Australian course.
• You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
• Only first-time, first year university students wishing to study full-time in 2024 can apply.
• You can demonstrate your passion and desire to supporting rural communities both now and into the future.
• You can demonstrate community involvement

Click here to find more information.

Griffith University Adam Scott Foundation Sports Business Scholarship

The Adam Scott Foundation Business Scholarship is for students who have overcome adversities in their life, are passionate about business and may also have an interest in sport.

The scholarship is for payment of the student contribution charges (CSP/HECS).

Applicants must apply and gain entry to one of the following Griffith courses in 2024:

• B Business
• B International Tourism and Hotel Management
• B Sport Development
• B Business/B Government and International Relations
• B International Tourism and Hotel Management/B Business
• B of Advanced Business (Honours)

Visit the website for more information. Applications close on 29 January 2024.

QUT Adrian Scott Rural Journalism Scholarship

The Adrian Scott Rural Journalism Scholarship supports a student from a regional, rural or remote location to study in a Bachelor of Communication at QUT. This scholarship offers financial assistance to relocate, valued at $8,000 for two years, paid in four instalments to help with your study. Applications close 1 March 2024. Visit the QUT website to find out more.

QUT tips for applying for scholarships

Click here to read more about some tips for applying for scholarships at QUT including:

• What is a scholarship
• Who can apply
• What are the benefits
• How to apply

The QUT Dalwood-Wylie Foundation Scholarship now open

The Dalwood-Wylie Foundation Scholarship assists students from regional and remote areas requiring financial support to study acting or drama at QUT. You will receive a $5,000 payment to support your transition to university to be used towards relocation, accommodation or education expenses. Applications close 1 March 2024. Visit the QUT website to find out more. 

Torrens University faculty scholarships

Are you planning to study Business and Technology, Creative Technology, Design, Education, Health or Hospitality, or study at the Blue Mountains International Hotel School? Torrens University may have a 2024 scholarship for you. If you're motivated, future-focused and keen to fast-track your career, you are encouraged to apply for one of their scholarships. Successful students get up to 20% off their course fees and access to a range of exclusive opportunities.

UQ Kathy Hirschfeld AM Scholarship Endowment for Women in Engineering

The purpose of this scholarship is to encourage and support first year female students who are currently experiencing financial barriers to undertake studies in engineering at The University of Queensland . The award is valued at $4,500 for one year. See the website for details. Applications close on 3 March 2024.

UQ key scholarships

Here are a few key scholarships that are currently open and accepting applications. All information about scholarships can be found on UQ's Scholarships website.

2024 Academic Scholarships
Applications close 24 November 2023. Click here for more information.

Macoun Family Scholarship in Finance
Female students from non-metropolitan Brisbane state schools in Bachelor of Advanced Finance and Economics (BAFE). Applications close 26 January 2024. Click here for more information.

Schools of Business and Economics Indigenous Student Scholarship
Indigenous students in Economics. Click here for more information. Schools of Business and Economics Indigenous Student Scholarship - closes March 2024

HUB24 Regional QLD Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Scholarship
Students experiencing financial hardship and wanting to study:

• B of Computer Science
• B of Information Technology
• B of Engineering (Honours)

Applications close 3 March 2024. Click here for more information.

Calboonya Legacy Information Technology and Computer Science Scholarship
For students experiencing financial hardship and enrolled in:

• Bachelor of Computer Science
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)
• Bachelor of Information Technology
• Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours)
• Bachelor of Science (Computer Science Major)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) (Computer Science Major)
• any dual program including the above programs.

Applications close 03 March 2024. Click here for more information. 

UniSQ Academic Excellence scholarships

The USQ Academic Excellence Scholarships are automatically awarded to eligible Year 12 Students who put USQ as #1 on their QTAC application for 2024 and achieve the required ATAR. You do not have to put in an application. 

UniSQ Residential College Scholarships

Residential College Scholarships are for those looking to live on campus. Each scholarship will have a maximum value of:

• $6000 (for students studying in Trimesters), or
• $7500 (for students studying in Semesters).

Scholarships to be paid as a reduction in Residential College fees across each semester/trimester of 2024. Click here for more information.

QTAC and Tertiary Entry

Avoid relying on online ATAR calculators

Some Year 10 and 12 students are using ATAR calculators found online to help them choose either their senior subjects or tertiary pathway for 2024. You should avoid using these calculators because they cannot accurately predict a Queensland student’s ATAR or how Queensland Senior subjects will scale. No one (including QTAC and university experts) are able to produce a calculator that can accurately predict Queensland ATARs to be awarded from 2024. As always, it is recommended that you choose subjects and undergraduate degrees based on what:

• you enjoy
• you think you will achieve well in
• subject prerequisites for tertiary courses Year 10 students need for tertiary courses after leaving school

You can read about QTAC subject scaling on their website and subject scaling outcomes for students completing Year 12 in 2023 become available in 2024.

QTAC FAQs

Q         Will I get an offer for all the courses I applied for through QTAC?

A         No. You will only receive one offer for your highest eligible course that you are competitive for. Therefore, it is essential to order your courses according to your preference, putting the course you most want first and having a ‘safety net’ course as your 6th option.

Q         Will I get a letter in the mail from QTAC with my offer on it?

A         No. If you have an offer, QTAC will notify you by email or SMS. You need to log on to your application on the QTAC website for details of your offer and to respond to your offer. Because there are numerous offer-round dates (see Course offer dates), you must check your emails regularly (including your Junk folder).

Q         Is there anything I can do if I don’t respond to an offer by the due date?

A         Yes.  Contact QTAC immediately. QTAC may be able to reinstate your offer.

Q         What happens after I have accepted an offer of a course place?

A         You enrol at your institution by the due date. Most institutions will have an ‘Enrol here’ link on the QTAC website. If there's no enrolment link, your university will contact you directly.

Q         I have applied for courses that start in Semester One and Semester Two 2024 on my QTAC application. Is this OK?

A         Yes, if the Semester One courses are listed before the Semester Two courses. However, a better strategy is to put only Semester One courses on your application in the first instance. After the major offer-round for Semester One courses on 11 January 2024 (see page 18 in the QTAC book), you can put Semester Two courses on your application if you have not received your preferred offer. 

Q         What should I do if I don’t get an offer?

A         First check your application on the QTAC website. You may be ineligible for the courses you applied for. This will be indicated on the Preferences page of your application beside each course preference. Reasons for not receiving an offer may include:

• Quota restrictions (that is, your ATAR/rank did not meet the minimum threshold)
• Failure to satisfy minimum entry requirements (prerequisite subjects, audition, etc.)
• Failure to pay QTAC processing/application fee
• Preferencing your courses incorrectly (e.g. putting semester two courses before semester one courses; not including a ‘good’ pathways option for your 5th and 6th preferences)
• Applying after the due date for the offer-round
• Not submitting required documents
• Not responding to an earlier offer.

If you don’t get an offer and none of the above points apply, contact QTAC immediately. 

Q         What do I have to do when I receive an offer?

A         You must respond to QTAC by the due date. You usually have four days to respond. If you don’t respond by the due date, your offer will lapse and your application will become inactive. When you respond to your offer, you have two main options:

• Make an outright acceptance, deferment or rejection OR
• Conditionally accept your offer so you can be considered for higher preferences in future offer rounds. If you choose this option, you must go back into your QTAC application and put your preferences back into your application.

See more information about responding on the Offers page on the QTAC website.

If you were ineligible for the courses you applied for, you can change your course preferences for consideration in any subsequent offer-round if further offers are made. QTAC usually publishes remaining course vacancies on its website after a major offer-round. You can also contact QTAC by phone, email or Facebook for advice.

Tertiary application reminders

Have you put important dates in your phone or diary?  Including:

• Scholarship application due dates (see the scholarship page on the institution websites)
• QTAC offer-round dates (check the Course Offer Dates on the QTAC website)
• When Year 12 results are uploaded to your Student Portal account so you can access them through your myQCE Student Portal
• When QTAC will be emailing you or you can log into your QTAC ATAR account to find out your ATAR
• The last date you can change preferences for the offer rounds on 17 November, 21 December 2023 and 11 January 2024 (see  Key Dates and Fees on the QTAC website or Page 18 in your QTAC book).
• Date that you must have submitted any required documentation for each offer round (Page 18 in you QTAC book)

Do you have all your QTAC documents and numbers in a safe place?  

Including:

• Your 2024 Year 12 Guide
• A copy of your QTAC preferences
• Your QTAC password
• Your QTAC reference number
• Your LUI, Learning Account password and USI.

If you are going on holidays over Christmas, especially overseas, you should take these with you.

Future Doctors Australia - Career Insight Programs

The Future Doctors Australia (FDA) program is developed and managed by NIE Careers, a leading provider of career development programs for prospective future medical students.

Their mission is to inspire, guide and support the future generation of healthcare professionals to succeed in their studies and beyond. This 4-day program run will be held during school holidays.

• Brisbane - 9 to 12 December 2023 (Taringa) 
• Melbourne - 19 to 22 January 2024 (Richmond) 
• Sydney - 18 to 21 July 2024 (Chatswood) 
• Sydney - 11 to 13 October 2024 (Chatswood)
  

If any studentts are interested in a medical career, please refer to the brochure below. 

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

ORIENTATION DAY

Last week our Junior Band with the help of our Year 10 instrumental mentors performed for our new incoming Year 7s on Orientation Day. They produced a great sound together, having five pieces to a high performance standard and represented the music department to our new incoming students with distinction. A wonderful achievement to end our year of Junior Band.

Several students also volunteered their time to chat with our new students and demonstrate their instruments. Many thanks to these students for their generosity: Isobel Bertram, Henrietta Cullin-Willy, Sarah Ellis, Johann Ferrer, Mitchell Hunt, Christian Lanzafame, Oliver Maughan, Ben McNamara, Lilly Wiemers and Piper Wiemers.

ART SHOW MUSIC PERFORMANCES

On Thursday evening, our Chamber Ensembles: Strings, Flutes, Clarinets, Saxophones and Brass, enhanced the enjoyment of the evening for guests by providing some musical performances. Thank you to these students for their dedication and to their tutors for their continued support of such performance opportunities, Ms Laura Davies, Mrs Lauren Crighton, Mr Connor Sharpe and Mr Andrew Will.

MUSIC UNIFORMS

Any student finishing Year 12 or no longer continuing in an ensemble for 2024 is asked to please return their music uniform (laundered) to the music office by Friday 24 November, end of week 8.

AUSTRALIAN (AHEP) AND QUEENSLAND STATE HONOURS ENSEMBLE PROGRAM (SHEP) NOMINATIONS 2024

Nominations are now open for AHEP and SHEP QLD for 2024. SHEP recommends students at AMEB 7 and above be nominated for AHEP.

The State Honours Ensemble Programs (SHEP) are run by the Queensland Conservatorium of Music, Griffith University and provide an opportunity for students to work in an intensive environment of musical excellence with their peers, under the leadership of a team of eminent conductors.

Please see Mrs Pietsch for more information or to express interest to be nominated for these high-level programs. rpietsch@sjc.qld.edu.au

DATE CLAIMERS

Upcoming performance dates and events of note for our ensembles and choirs:

Music Ensembles Break-Up Celebration: Sunday 12 November - All Co-Curricular Ensembles, Choir and Dance

SJC Presentation Night: Monday 13 November - Chamber Ensembles, Senior Concert Band, Jazz Ensemble and Combined Choir

Music Recital: Monday 20 November 5pm

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

Japanese Host Family Needed

Host Family, Term 1

We are looking for a suitable host family for a female Japanese student who will be joining our Year 10 cohort for Term 1 2024. Rino Tanigawa currently studies at our sister school, Shijonawate Gakuen, in Osaka.

Rino is 15 years old. She is interested in K-pop, shopping, camping and working with children. She describes herself as friendly, outgoing, happy and relaxed.

Rino’s goal is to improve her English, so no host family Japanese experience is necessary and her stay falls purely during term time – no holidays to factor in. There is also weekly payment made to the host family to cover the extra living costs involved.

If you think Rino would fit in well with your family, please contact me via email and I will forward more details. Ideally, we would like to send host information to Shijonawate in the next few weeks so preparations can be made at both ends.

Many thanks,

Maree Nunn - Japanese Teacher - mnunn@sjc.qld.edu.au

St Vinnies Christmas Hamper Appeal

This Christmas, St Joseph's College is continuing its support for St Vincent De Paul through the annual Christmas Hamper Appeal.

The Christmas Hamper Appeal is an important tradition at SJC and we are grateful for any help the College community is able to offer.

This year, SJC is raising donations for 46 families - Australian families in crisis and refugee families who have been forced to leave their homelands due to terrible conflict.

Through this Appeal, our students are learning that their generosity and empathy can make a world of difference to a family who may be struggling within our broader community during this holiday season.

Each Joey's Way class has been assigned a family, and will be given more specific information such as how many family members there are, where the family comes from, and what unique challenges this family may be facing.

Gifts and non-perishable food can be donated to each family during your Joey’s Way classes in the baskets provided.

Ideas for items could be…

• 1L drink (e.g., cordial)
• Baked beans
• Biscuits (not small)
• Can of fruit
• Cereal
• Chips
• Christmas cake
• Coffee
• Custard
• Fruit containers
• Gravy powder tin
• Jelly powder
• Lollies
• Long-life milk
• Pasta sauce
• Plum puddings
• Spaghetti
• Tea
• Tin vegetables
• Tinned ham (not small; no spam)
• Tuna
• Soap
• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant

Thank you so much for all your amazing donations in this time! Let's make a difference this Christmas, SJC.  

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.

The uniform shop is stocked up and is ready for all your summer needs and Back to school uniforms.

Have you purchased your new All Purpose Jacket, they are available in store for $99.00 and are selling fast?

Items you might not know we sell:

• Female Bike Shorts
• Black leather school shoes
• Water bottles
• Hair Accessories
• Hat bands
• Scarves
• Second hand clothing

We will be opening on Saturday 9^th December 2023  and 13^th January 2024 9am – 1pm, for your back to school needs if you can’t make it in during the weekly opening hours.

Appointments greatly appreciated

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.

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.