From the Principal

Dear Parents and Friends of St Joseph’s College,

Last Sunday the Gospel of John described how a young boy provided Jesus with seven loaves and two fish which Jesus used to feed a multitude of followers. Often, we reflect on the miracle that Jesus fed the masses, however there is an equally significant message resulting from the generosity of the boy. It is one thing to be generous and still have enough for ourselves, but another be generous and go without because of generosity. In a world where so many go without the basics of life such as shelter, food, access to medicine and education we are reminded of the importance of charity towards our fellow man. We must not turn our backs on people and retreat from the world, but rather face up to the reality we find and do what we can. At St Joseph’s College many of our young people engage in service activities such as Breakfast Club, Rosies, Just Joey’s, Interact, Knitting Club and Vinnies Youth Program. These initiatives seek to enact the values of compassion and dignity and by doing so, make Jesus known to the beneficiaries of these service groups.

Last Friday, Toowoomba Catholic Education staff from the surrounding area attended the annual Bishop’s Inservice Day. This year St Joseph’s College facilitated the event. Such days are critical in providing spiritual formation and embracing our Catholic Identity which promotes our schools as places where students and staff can flourish and reach their potential. A large contingent of St Joseph’s students gave willingly of their time to enrich the day through participation in our choir, college band and liturgical team. I specifically wish to acknowledge Sophie Skuse and Tyler Warrener who were our Masters of Ceremony for the day. Special thanks go to Ms Kellie Marie Ford, Ms Madeline Minns, Ms Roseanne Pietch and Ms Megan Scott for their organisation and preparation of students.

As part of our recent Catholic Week celebrations, we acknowledged the significant service and contributions of a number of staff members including Mr Brian Cantwell and Ms Nicole Davies who have dedicated thirty-five and forty-five years of service, respectively. Both staff members have made enriching contributions to the college community in curriculum and extra- curricular activities and many students and staff have been the beneficiaries of their skills, professionalism, and collegial manner. Nicole has recently announced her retirement from teaching and will be farewelled by staff later this term.

St Joseph’s College also acknowledges Mr Brendon Willocks who was a finalist in the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Excellence Awards for the Excellence in Leadership category which were held at Picnic Point. Brendon was acknowledged for his outstanding contributions to enhancing student learning outcomes for all students over the last four years. Well done, Brendon.

This week we farewelled Deb Morris who has worked in College Reception over the last two years. She has made a wonderful contribution to the college culture through her professionalism and warm and caring nature. Deb is going to enjoy retirement and we wish her well with her future plans. We welcome Kylie van der Linden to the St Joseph’s Team this term. She brings a wealth of school experience to our community and will step into the reception role.

After the completion of our School Review and Improvement Process (SRIP) I invite interested parents to attend a Parent Engagement Evening on Wednesday 21st August at 6:00pm at the college to offer feedback on the strategic direction of St Joseph’s College for the next four years. Parents and Carers will be able to engage with the significant findings and recommendations of the SRIP which will inform future plans. 

God Bless

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