Newsletter - Term 3 - Week 10 - Issue 130

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Friends of St Joseph’s College,

Last Sunday’s Gospel from Mark told the story of how Jesus restored the hearing of a deaf man. He took the man away from the crowd, put his divine finger into the man’s ears, touched the man’s tongue with his own sacred saliva and the man was cured. Doing so reveals to us that Jesus’ humanity became the source of unity between God and man. Even his finger and his saliva unite us to God. Everything about the Son of God in his human form dispensed grace, healing, and mercy. He desires to continue using the members of his body to distribute his grace. By baptism, we are members of Christ’s body, the Church. We are his hands and feet, his eyes and voice, his heart and finger, and even his saliva. In the last newsletter, I spoke of the many service activities that our students are involved in. By serving God in others, we allow his voice to be heard.

Last week I had the delight of attending the Year 8 Resilience Camp at Camp Kokoda, located near Boonah. This experience engaged students and staff in a range of experiences ranging from abseiling and canoeing to group problem-solving. Each activity challenged the students individually and required them to work as a collective to push beyond what they thought were their limits. Camp Kokoda’s learning program is based on the values of courage, endurance, mateship, and sacrifice. Each evening during debriefs conducted by camp facilitators, students heard the stories of how the diggers involved in the Kokoda campaign displayed these values in the face of insurmountable odds and how they were enacting the same values in their activities. I was impressed at how our students demonstrated personal growth and look forward to witnessing this group apply their learnings whilst at the college. I also acknowledge Mr Luke Logan who coordinated the camp and the fifteen staff who attended, to support the seven student groups. Each staff member volunteered their time outside of school hours to allow students to have such a rich experience. I am grateful for their generosity.

Recently St Joseph’s College celebrated Child Protection Week which focused on the importance of having conversations about keeping children safe. St Joseph’s College has designated officers who students can approach if they feel unsafe either at school or outside. These staff are displayed on posters around the school and on the college website. Whilst students engaged in conversations about safety through the Joey’s Way curriculum, I encourage all parents to talk with their children about how to maintain their safety in a variety of environments including the digital world.

At the end of this term, we farewell Ms Angela Harris who is taking up the position of Acting Principal Curriculum at St Mary’s College for term four of this year and 2025. The college congratulates Angela on her appointment and looks forward to her return in 2026. Ms Pam Pedernal replaces Ms Harris during her secondment.

St Joseph’s College farewells Ms Grace Bunch (Grounds Team) who will conclude her service at the College on the 20th September. She is moving to Brisbane to be closer to her partner and I thank Grace for her service and contributions to the maintenance of the College and its grounds beautification. A recruitment process is currently underway to fill Grace’s position.

Thank you to Mr Jason Beasley who has covered classes for Mr Bruce Cook whilst he has been on long service leave in the latter part of this term. Jason will continue to undertake further casual work at the college.

This Thursday we farewelled our students and staff who are travelling to Japan along with students and staff from St Saviours College. Immersive experiences such as this trip are highly valuable, and I thank Ms Maree Nunn and Mr Adam Watts for making such an experience possible.

Finally, I take this opportunity to thank our staff, students, and families for your efforts during term 3. Our students have grown holistically through academic, faith, sport, cultural and service experiences and the upcoming two- week vacation is an appropriate time to recharge the batteries. For our Year 12 students this will be the last time that they will return to school after vacation, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements with you.

I look forward to seeing everyone when school commences on Monday 30th September. 

God Bless
Jim Brennan

Jim Brennan - Principal - jbrennan@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Deputy Principal

2024 Presentation Night – Save the Date

All students and families are welcome to the 2024 Presentation Night!  The evening will acknowledge the student’s academic, mission, sporting, cultural and engagement & leadership achievements.  As in previous years, we look forward to a range of performances.  We invite all members of the College community to join us for a night of celebration and entertainment as we acknowledge the achievements of our students across SJC in all areas of college life. Tickets will be available shortly via a link from the Empire Theatre – stay tuned and save this date.

Congratulations

Congratulations to all on a very successful Term 3. There have been many activities and opportunities for the students to be involved in, from excursions, SET Plans, Academic Care interviews, Grandparents Day Mass, Retreats, Athletics Carnival, Student Leadership voting, Book Week, Science Week, cultural performances and concerts, many sporting competitions all the way through to RUOK Day. Just to mention a few.

The challenge for students is to get the most out of schooling is to be involved in as many activities and opportunities as possible. 

Year 12

The Year 12 students are currently preparing for their final external exams or assessments in Term 4. Many students in General subjects are involved in the External Exam Preparation Program (EEPP) over the holidays. Our full support is with our Year 12 students as they enter their final passage of studies leading up to the external ATAR exams which commence early in Term 4. Good luck as you approach these important exams.

Preparation for Term 4

Over the holidays your child is encouraged to empty their school bag and pencil case to make note of items they need to replenish before the final school term for 2024.

Students should return to school with an equipped pencil case and workbooks with enough space for Term 4 work.

Upcoming Events

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

Vehicle movement at the College

A reminder to our parents and guardians to please not drive up the internal road of the College (Coronet Street) as per the signage on the traffic barriers.

Students regularly cross this road and do not expect vehicles to be operating past this point. For the College, student safety is of paramount concern each and every day, and we hope reiterating this message can contribute to creating a safer space for our students.

If you are unable to stop in the designated drop-off/pick-up zones or in the car park, then please contact Student Entrance on 46318500 to make additional arrangements.

Thank you for your compliance.

From the Assistant Principal - Curriculum

Year 11 and 12 - Medical report requirements for Absences for Exams or Extensions.

If students are absent for Senior Assessment (Year 11 and 12) the College requires supporting evidence to enable the College to organise comparable assessment or extensions.

Please note that Illness and misadventure applications require strong supporting evidence. Medical information provided must be more detailed than a certificate stating that the student has a medical condition and is unfit for duty.

Medical reports may be completed by a registered general practitioner (GP), medical specialist, psychologist, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, optometrist, certified practicing speech pathologist or speech pathologist who is eligible for membership of Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) as a certified practicing member. The practitioner must not be related to the student or employed by the school.

Details of diagnosis should be provided by the practitioner who is best placed professionally to make the diagnosis. If an update is provided after diagnosis of disability and/or medical condition, it may be provided by any of the health professionals listed above, as relevant to the student’s condition and circumstances.

The QCAA provides a medical report template with separate sections to complete for AARA and illness and misadventure, and although it is optional, the College strongly suggests using this template.

Reports must include the date the report was completed and the practitioner’s details and signature and provide the following information.

Illness and misadventure — external assessment

• diagnosis of temporary medical condition or   deterioration/complication in a chronic condition
• dates of diagnosis and occurrence/onset
• the duration of effect
• whether the student is/was considered disadvantaged in   assessment performance or unable to participate
• information about the likely impacts on the student’s ability to undertake scheduled external assessment.

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs Karen Tobin (Senior Years Learning Leader) or Mrs Fellenberg (AP Curriculum).  We are here to support students, but we need to follow QCAA guidelines closely.

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

From the Assistant Principal - Student Engagement

Dear Parents and Guardians,

This is intended to provide families with clarity around the College position on students using bathrooms and our underlying reasons for taking that position. Please note the following:

• It is completely acceptable for students to use the bathroom when they to. Students who use the bathroom during class should use the process for exiting class (hat on, diary signed, phone on desk).
• It is essential that the College is able to provide bathroom facilities for students that are safe, clean and dignified.
• In the past, we have been concerned by incidents where students have engaged in dangerous, destructive or illegal behaviour in bathrooms.
• Incidents of this nature are extremely difficult to investigate given that, quite rightly, we do not place surveillance cameras in toilets.
• We also know that the risk of students engaging in dangerous, destructive or illegal behaviour in toilets is greatly reduced when they use bathrooms alone.

As such, the College has taken the position that students are not permitted to use bathrooms in groups (more than 2) or congregate in bathrooms. This expectation has been communicated extensively to our students throughout the year.

If a student is found to be congregating in the bathroom in groups, the College takes the following action:

• In the first instance, the student will be required to complete a lunch detention. Parents will be notified via an automated letter.
• In the second instance, the student will be suspended from the College. Parents will also be notified of this via by a member of the Student Engagement Team.

Please also note the following:

• If, by coincidence, a student is in the bathroom at the same time as a friend. The College will not take action because the student has not made a deliberate choice to contravene our expectations.
• This strategy has been effective. We are pleased to report a significant reduction in incidents of dangerous, destructive or illegal behaviour in bathrooms.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership as work to ensure all our students have a safe, clean and dignified bathroom to use when they need it.

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

From the Assistant Principal - Mission & Identity

This week, our 2024 Year 12 cohort headed off for an action-packed three-day Retreat at Redland Bay.

So close to the end of their high school journey, this Retreat provided the perfect opportunity for the students to pause and reflect before heading off into the world.

Together, they are able to focus on where they have been, where they are now and their short-term future.

In the past, Year 12s have found this Retreat to be one of the highlights of their College life.

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Kellie-Marie Ford - Assistant Principal - Mission & Identity - kford@sjc.qld.edu.au

McAuley House

Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and it is also a time when honeybees come out of their winter hibernation to begin the process of pollination. Honeybees are essential to our ecosystem, and their role in the pollination of plants is crucial for the survival of many species. Just as honeybees play an important role in the natural world, the work of Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, continues to inspire us to play an important role in the world of compassion and service.

Catherine McAuley, like the honeybee, was a symbol of hard work and dedication. She dedicated her life to helping those in need and her tireless efforts to improve the lives of the poor and marginalised reflect her compassion and resilience. She believed that every person, regardless of their social status, deserved to be treated with dignity and respect.
Honeybees, like Catherine McAuley, are also a symbol of resilience. They can survive in a variety of conditions and are able to adapt to changes in their environment. Honeybees can withstand harsh winters and still be able to pollinate in the spring. Similarly, Catherine McAuley faced many challenges and hardships in her life, but she never let them defeat her. Her determination and perseverance were remarkable, and they helped her to overcome many obstacles.

Spring is also a time of hope and renewal. As the flowers begin to bloom, we can't help but feel optimistic about the future. Catherine McAuley's hope is another quality that continues to inspire us today. Despite the difficulties and hardships she faced, she never gave up. Her hope was contagious, and it inspired many others to keep going, even in the face of adversity. Just as spring brings new life and growth, Catherine McAuley's hope brings a new light to those who are facing difficult situations.

Just like the honeybees, Catherine McAuley's role in society was vital for the survival and well-being of many. Honeybees play an important role in the pollination of plants, which in turn, provides us with the food we need to survive. Catherine McAuley's role in society was vital for the survival and well-being of many. Her tireless efforts to improve the lives of the poor and marginalised have left an indelible mark on society.

Catherine McAuley's life and work remain a source of inspiration for individuals committed to effecting positive change in our world. As she aptly put it, 'The simplest and most practical lesson I know is to resolve to be good today, but better tomorrow.' Let us draw inspiration from Catherine McAuley's wisdom and the honeybees as we embark on our journey to leave a positive imprint on the world. Just as the bees tirelessly gather nectar to produce honey, may we cultivate compassion, resilience, and hope in our hearts, igniting a determination to make a meaningful difference.

Melissa Zenke - Student Engagement Middle Leader - McAuley House - mzenke@sjc.qld.edu.au

Sport

SSI GIRLS Final

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the ten girls who travelled to Highlands on Monday afternoon to participate in the SSI Red LION competition.

Due to the four Year 12 girls being on camp and two other players unavailable, we faced the challenge of competing with just 10 players. Despite this, the team showcased remarkable determination and skill, ultimately securing a victory in extra time with a score of 1-0.

The winning goal, a spectacular shot, came within the first three minutes of extra time. From there, the girls focused on maintaining their lead, successfully defending against a well-drilled and fast-paced opponent until the final whistle.
Marly's outstanding performance earned her the title of Player of the Match, as awarded by the centre referee and linesperson.

A special thank you goes out to those who travelled to support the team, and to Mrs. Jackwitz for providing the girls with delicious food and watermelon. We also appreciate Mr. Hansen for his invaluable assistance in the coaching box.
Once again, congratulations to our team for their impressive achievement!

Equestrian

We wish Summer Lindgren the best of luck as she travels to Tamworth during the holidays as part of the Queensland Interschool Equestrian team to compete in the Australian Interschool Equestrian Championships.

Summer will compete on both of her horses, Bindi in the combined training 80cm and Eventing 80cm on Kingston.

This is a great achievement, and we hope they all travel safely and both horses behave themselves for Summer.

Rugby Union

During Term 3 the Darling Downs Schools Cup was played in Rugby Union.

In the 13 boys Nate Standeaven and Ari Biernoff played with the St Mary’s team. St Mary’s and our boys won the grand final 21 to 12 with Ari scoring won of the tries for the night.

In the Open boys, Dylan Stephens, Oliver Gregson, Thomas Kelly and Harry O’Neill were part of a Barbarian team that competed. They made the grand final but unfortunately were defeated at the final hurdle.

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

Connecting with Careers

Something to think about  

Something to think about: “None of us is as smart as all of us.” —Ken Blanchard

In this newsletter, we are focusing on: 

• Apprenticeships
• School leavers support
• Study Options
• QTAC and Tertiary Entry
• External  Assessment Resources for Year 12 Students

To access career information, upcoming events and learning opportunities, you can go to St Joseph’s College Careers website. 

Apprenticeships

Australian Apprenticeships offer a world of opportunities Did you know that more than 500 occupations across Australia offer apprenticeships? You can learn a traditional trade or an emerging occupation. Most sectors of business and industry offer apprenticeships at various certificate levels. With an Australian Apprenticeship, you can earn a wage while completing a nationally recognised qualification. It's a great way to get a head start in your chosen occupation. myfuture has put together an article explaining the benefits of apprenticeships including information on:

• Find an apprenticeship that suits you (with links)
• Improve your chances

School leavers support 

The Australian Government's Your Career has developed a School Leavers Support package to assist Year 12 school leavers to make a smooth transition to their new life. Click here to find more information on: 

• Life after school – what will you do next?
• Choose a pathway that's right for you
• Explore different journeys for school leavers
• Resources - School leavers information kit

Your Study options 

With so many options available to you, you may be feeling a little overwhelmed. But don't worry - there are plenty of ways to narrow down your course options. At the end of the day, the most important things are that you choose a course that you enjoy, suits you and your lifestyle and will help you achieve the outcomes you want - whether that be a career or simply skills and knowledge in an area of interest. Click here to read The Good Universities Guide's article which includes information on: 

• Course selection and regulation
• Qualification types
• Study options
• Links to:  
• Search universities
• Search TAFE Institutes
• Search by Field of Work

QTAC and Tertiary Entry

Educational Access Scheme (EAS) 

EAS can assist if you have faced challenging circumstances that have affected your most recent schooling or study experience. It supports you by levelling the playing field to give you a better chance to compete for tertiary study. All applicant information is treated with strict confidentiality and care. EAS can assist you if: 

• You have qualifications that provide a QTAC selection rank. This includes completing senior secondary schooling (years 11 and 12) or other equivalent studies.
• You are applying for an institution or course that accepts EAS.
• You meet entry requirements even if you changed school subjects, as long as the new subjects align with the course requirements.
• You have missed school due to circumstances beyond your control, not including personal choice activities like sports, music, or cultural events.

If your EAS application is successful, you may receive adjustments to your QTAC selection rank. This can help you compete for tertiary study on a more equal basis. If you are eligible for the Financial Hardship category, you may also get financial assistance from institutions, such as scholarships or bursaries. Click here (scroll down) for more information and individual category cover sheets which need to be completed and uploaded into your QTAC application. 

External assessment resources for Year 12 students 

If you are in Year 12, your final exams are quickly approaching. Click here to access External assessment information that will help you prepare for your external exams including: 

• External assessment
• How do they contribute to results?
• What do they test?
• How are they developed and marked?
• Key dates and details  
• External assessment timetable
• Equipment 
• Directions for students
• Resources to help you prepare  
• Sample papers and past papers 
• Tips to help you study and stay motivated
• What to do if you are unwell
• How can I stay updated about changes to external assessment?
• Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments
• Understanding AARA

For more information please contact the Careers Team.

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

Cate Jackman - Careers Support Officer  -  cjackman@sjc.qld.edu.au

St Pat's Cathedral Carnival of Flowers displays

This week, Ms Leigh Price and student Layla Kuehnemann created a fantastic floral display for St Joseph's College at St Patrick’s Cathedral as part of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

You can visit the Cathedral to see the floral displays over this weekend - check out the details below!

Technology

Last Thursday, 20 Year 10 students attended a ‘Try a Trade’ day at ‘Hutchies’ Builders in Toowoomba. The day was organised by Construction Skills Queensland. Students were divided into 4 groups and rotated through the following activities.

• Tiling
• Painting
• Carpentry
• Site tour of ‘Hutchies’

All of the students were willing participants in all of the activities and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Thanks to Construction Skills Queensland for organising the day and allowing St Joseph’s College students the opportunity to ‘Try a Trade’. The experience allows them to investigate further, what options they may have in the future.

Brian Cantwell - Curriculum Middle Leader - Technology - bcantwell@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.

Enjoy your Spring Holiday and look forward to seeing everyone after their break.

We will be open in the holidays on Friday 27^th September 9am – 1pm for any of your uniform needs.

All summer uniform stock is available in store.

All-purpose jackets now available in store in all sizes.

Out of stock:

• Tracksuit pants S, M, L, and XL
• Junior Girls blouse Sz 8

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.

Pass Phrase StJC1956

Second hand items and Football items not available to order online, but are available in store or payment over the phone.

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.