From the Principal

Dear Parents and Friends of St Joseph’s College,

As we draw towards the mid-year holiday break, I draw on the biblical concept of heart. The word “heart” is referenced over a thousand times in the bible. In the context of scripture, the meaning of heart is a metaphor of “inner self.”

An open heart, compassion and passion for justice go together. An open heart feels the suffering of others and responds to it and draws out the fruit of the Holy Spirit. The purpose of the Christian life is to become more compassionate beings. I trust that the time we spend with family this break allows us time to reflect on the importance of expressing our hearts within our families and communities.

On Monday we celebrated our First Nations people and cultures at our assembly in anticipation of NAIDOC week (July 7-14). Our guest speakers Paul Carmody (UniSQ) and Tawana Carmody (Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office) shared stories of the significance of native plants and animals but also the pathways that their family members have pursued. Their stories brought to life this year’s NAIDOC theme of “'Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud,” which encourages all to stand tall in their heritage. Staff and students were then treated to Nguluwa dhiyaan Aboriginal Arts dancers who depicted significant cultural stories.

This week we farewell staff members Joel Farrell and Greg Webb. Both staff members were replacing existing staff on leave, and I am pleased that they have secured teaching positions within the Toowoomba area. I thank Joel and Greg for their respective contributions this year and the College wishes them well in their new positions. We also farewell Ms Jacinta Morriss who commences maternity leave at the conclusion of this term, and we look forward to news of her family’s new arrival next semester.

We also welcome returning staff members Candice Brazier and Angela Harris to the St Joseph’s College Team for semester 2. Both staff members are well known to our community for their professional expertise and manner. Candice resumes her position as Curriculum Leader of the Mathematics Faculty, whilst Angela will also join the Mathematics and Science Teams. I also thank Mr Peter Keightley for his leadership as Curriculum Leader of Mathematics whilst Candice was on leave. Peter remains with us in a teaching capacity.

Last week we acknowledged the contributions our school officers and non-teaching staff make towards supporting student learning at St Joseph’s College. Whether it is the wonderful presentation of our school facilities, care for parents and students at reception or the support of students and teachers in classrooms, these staff embrace the Joey’s Way. It was a delight to share lunch with them, whilst our student leaders presented gratitude cards to each member acknowledging their valued contributions.

Parent/Student/ Teacher interviews will be held on Wednesday 10th July. This day provides an opportunity for parents to discuss their child/ children’s progress with respective teachers. The interviews provide a more detailed and personalised report of Semester 1 report cards which will be released (Year 7-10) to parents this Friday 25th June through the Sentral Parent Portal. Year 11 and 12 reports were issued earlier this term. Additionally, Year 12 academic care interviews are scheduled for Monday 15th July and Tuesday 16th July.

I encourage all parents to take the opportunity to meet with staff especially if your child has not experience educational success. Additionally, I encourage parents to bring their children to the interviews.
Interviews for Year 7 (2025) undertaken by members of the Senior Leadership Team concluded this week. Applications have well exceeded the number of positions that we are able to offer, which is a wonderful endorsement of the collective work of the school community. Offers for enrolment will occur at the conclusion of the semester.

Finally, I wish our Open Years Confraternity (Rugby League) and QISSAN (Netball) teams the absolute best in their respective carnivals which will be held in Townsville during the first week of the holidays. Many staff, parents and businesses have contributed to facilitating this wonderful opportunity which has developed a rich tradition within the St Joseph’s Community. I thank everyone involved for your efforts and look forward to witnessing the students in action next week. I make special of our staff who give willingly of their time during the holiday period including Col Speed, Ashley Steel, Mitch Koina, Cam Love, Bridget Kenny, Kellie Marie Ford, Deb Newton, and Mark Fells.

On behalf of all staff, I take this opportunity to wish all families and enjoyable time with your children over the mid-year break and look forward to seeing you for the commencement of school on Tuesday 9th July.

God Bless

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