8 November 2024 - Newsletter (Vol 41 No 17)

Michael Carniato
Principal

Last week’s Crazy Sock Day and Cake Stall fundraising efforts have successfully raised $1,185.15 to support disadvantaged children in Mongolia, in partnership with Catholic Mission. These funds will go directly to the Don Bosco Caring Centre, providing essential resources like nutritious meals, school supplies, and warm winter clothing. This support helps children grow up healthy, continue their education, and endure the harsh Mongolian winters. Our community’s generous donations of cakes, biscuits, and brownies showcased our collective commitment to Catholic social teaching, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and the preferential option for the poor. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all staff, students, and families who contributed to making a real difference in the lives of those in need.

Leanne Gennat
Assistant Principal - Mission

As adults we may have already established ways in which we can practise self-care however adolescents are still navigating their way through this. They are in a time where they are trying to figure out who they are, who the best friends are for them and experiencing increased independence from their parents. In these busy years our young people can sometimes neglect their own self-care. As parents we can be good models for them while also allowing this independence. 

There are many things that adolescents can do to live well. Simply put, this is really just about the things that feel good for them. So for some it is sport, for others gaming, or art or music just as some examples. Adolescents should be encouraged as part of this development process, to find out what feels good for them and what helps them to manage the stresses that they’re under. Many adolescents struggle with negative or harsh self-critical thoughts. One practice that a lot of people have started to use is something called mindfulness. 

Mindfulness is an approach that is really just about looking at your thoughts or observing your thoughts, rather than getting hooked or caught up in them. Many young people have found this practice to be really helpful - particularly using some smartphone apps, such as one that's called Smiling Mind:

Smiling Mind App

The advantage of this tool is that it allows a teenager to step back a little from those thoughts - and not try to avoid thinking about them. Most young people find when they try to avoid a thought that it tends to make them focus on it more. 

As parents we can help our child that is struggling with these kinds of thoughts by initially connecting with them on how hard it is to have these experiences, rather than jumping in and trying to fix it or solve it. So making that young person feel really heard is a big part of supporting them through that process. It's important for parents to connect with their adolescent to understand that it is difficult and that together you can work through whatever problems they might be facing. 

The Australian parenting website Raising Children suggests some tips of how we can remain connected with our child:

1. Stop what you’re doing and focus on the moment. For example, put down your phone or shut your computer screen. Even for just a few seconds, give your child your full attention. Connecting works best when you send the message that right now, your child is the most important thing to you.
2. Look at your child while they’re talking to you. Really listen to what they’re saying. This sends the message that what your child has to say is important to you.
3. Show interest. Encourage your child to expand on what they’re saying, and explore their views, opinions, feelings, expectations or plans.
4. Listen without interrupting, judging or correcting. Your aim is to be with your child, not to give advice or help unless they ask for it.
5. Just be there. For example, you might be in the kitchen when your child is studying at the table. Teenagers benefit just from knowing that you’re available.
6. Keep in touch. For example, send daily text messages if you don’t live with your child full time or you’re away from home for a while. But try not to ask too many questions, because this might feel intrusive to your child. https://raisingchildren.net.au/

Until next time:

PAT Assessments and PAT Data

Over the past week, students in Years 7-10 have been sitting ACER Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) in reading, maths and science. These assessments, including PAT R (Reading), PAT M (Mathematics), and PAT S (Science), play a crucial role in tailoring education to meet the needs of our students.

The PAT assessments are designed to provide valuable insights into your child's progress and achievements in specific subject areas. They offer a comprehensive view of their strengths and areas for growth, allowing teachers to greater personalise their learning experience.

Here are some examples of how teachers have begun to use PAT data to differentiate instruction for our students:

Targeted Instructional Planning:

After administering the PAT assessments, teachers can access detailed reports that highlight individual student performance in specific skill areas. This information enables them to identify areas where students excel and pinpoint areas that may require additional support.

Customised Learning Pathways

With the data from PAT R, PAT M, and PAT S, teachers can create customised learning pathways for each student. For instance, if a student excels in mathematics but requires additional support in reading, teachers can adjust their lesson plans accordingly.

Grouping Strategies

PAT data allows teachers to form groups based on similar learning needs and abilities. This ensures that students receive instruction that is appropriately challenging and aligned with their current skill levels.

Enrichment Opportunities

For students who demonstrate advanced proficiency in specific areas, PAT data enables teachers to offer enrichment activities and extension projects. This ensures that every child is continually challenged and engaged.

Intervention Strategies

For students who may benefit from additional support, PAT data guides the implementation of targeted intervention strategies. These may include one-on-one sessions, small group activities, or specialised resources to address specific learning needs such as MacqLit or EMU. 

Progress Monitoring

By regularly assessing students with PAT tests, teachers can track their progress over time. This allows for ongoing adjustments to instruction and ensures that students are consistently moving forward in their learning journey.

Parent-Teacher Collaboration

PAT data also serves as a valuable tool for parent-teacher conferences. It provides concrete evidence of your child's progress and areas for improvement, facilitating meaningful discussions about their academic development.

At St John Paul College, we seek to provide a supportive and enriching learning environment that caters to the individual needs of students. The insights gained from PAT assessments empower our staff to deliver education that is more personalised, effective, and geared towards success.

Study Skills

Learn more about the ‘managing stress’ resources through the units on www.studyskillshandbook.com.au . Our College access details are:

School’s Username – stjohnpaul

School’s password – 89success

In addition, our subscription to Elevate Education may assist in this area.

This online platform contains resources and useful study tips that all SJPC students will find effective. We encourage them to access this Student Portal and try some of the strategies. Students have the password to this site. The password can also be found on the Curriculum Noticeboard.

AMDG

James Furey
Assistant Principal
Learning and Teaching

Merit Awards

Below are our current Distinction Award recipients so as to recognise student efforts not just at Assemblies but also within our Community throughout the year.

SJPC Merit Award Recipients Term 4 - Week 2 and 3

Year 7

Ivy Newton - Year 7 Distinction Award	Jack Priest - Year 7 Distinction Award	Luca Mansell - Year 7 Distinction Award
Tanner Gillespie - Year 7 Distinction Award	Pheonix Evans - Year 7 Distinction Award	Poppy McGilvray - Year 7 Distinction Award
Maddox Herbert - Year 7 Distinction Award	Ruby Flintoft - Year 7 Distinction Award	Thomas Corsalini - Year 7 Distinction Award
Bayley Green - Year 7 Distinction Award	Max Pinder - Year 7 Distinction Award	Maya Schmetzer - Year 7 Distinction Award

William Backhouse - Year 7 Distinction Award

Year 8

Bonnie Hunter - Year 8 Distinction Award	Alexis Silvy - Year 8 Distinction Award	India Parkin - Year 8 Distinction Award
Sophia McPherson - Year 8 Distinction Award	Victoria Chojnowski - Year 8 Distinction Award	Banjo Dworjanyn - Year 8 Distinction Award

Claire O'Rorke - Year 8 Distinction Award

Year 9

Lexi Heron - Year 9 Distinction Award

Darcy Ryan - Year 9 Distinction Award

Alexia Smith - Year 9 Distinction Award

Year 10

Kyle Chapman - Year 10 Distinction Award

Remy Goudge - Year 10 Distinction Award

Jack Harrison - Year 10 Distinction Award

AMDG

James Furey
Acting Principal

“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10)

While the weeks are flying by, it’s important to STOP and take a breath. 

Our lives are busy, sometimes chaotic and always filled with the next list of things we need to do. Households are noisy, sometimes hectic places and it’s difficult to slow down the avalanche of jobs and commitments.

But Jesus tells us, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while,” (Mark 6:31) instructing us to find space and silence in order to rest. 

Some may find it nearly impossible to find space in their daily lives, while others often find solitude too hard to handle: it can take some getting used to.

But silence is essential to our spiritual growth: it’s in the silence that we can truly hear God. 

Take a moment of silence and reflection in your day today. 

St Teresa of Avila: Prayer of Quiet

Janine Sawtell
Leader of School Evangelisation

Don't miss out on the last few Elevate Education webinars for 2024. The FREE webinars run live online from 6:30pm to 7:30pm. The presenter will share key research and skills and will conduct a live Q and A so that you can ask questions directly.

Next Webinar

How To Help Your Child Alleviate Stress 

13 November 2024

In this webinar Elevate will show parents how to:

• • Strategies for improving your child’s study process

  • Learn the “behind-the-scenes” secrets

  • Access the parent community

Register for free using the link below, 

Elevate seminar registration link 

Year 12

HSC written examinations are now finished. Congratulations to the class of 2024 for completing this part of your life journey!

Staff are looking forward to celebrating with you at the formal next week.

Year 11

All students should now have their assessment schedules for their first HSC assessments up in their study area at home.

If students have yet to pick up or print their Term 4 assessment planner, I suggest they do so as soon as possible.

It is wonderful to see Year 11 students already using the study centre in the afternoons to prepare for their assessments, working collaboratively to support each other and deepen their understanding of their course work.

A reminder that students need to refer to the Year 12 assessment policy to ensure they are meeting NESA and College requirements. Completing a Variation of Assessment form does not guarantee it will be approved so please check with the Leader of Learning or Curriculum Office if in doubt.

Year 10

Now that Year 10 students have finalised their pathway for 2025, it is vital that they practice those skills they will require for successful transition into Stage 6, TAFE or the work force in 2025.

This is not a time to wind down, but an important time to gear up for the challenges that will come their way in just a few months.

Year 7 - 9

Research has shown that when parents are engaged in their children’s learning and build strong connections with their children’s school, there can be significant benefits for children:

• They are more likely to enjoy learning and be motivated to do well
• They have stronger relationships with other children
• They have greater confidence and social skills
• They do better at school and have increased wellbeing
• They are less likely to miss days at school

You can let your child know that you value education by showing an interest and asking them questions like the ones listed below.

A reminder

If you have any questions about Curriculum, NESA requirements or College Assessment Policies please feel free to contact the Curriculum Office.

Claudia Brown
Leader of Curriculum

All things Literacy, because Literacy matters in all things

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE 

The Golden Key to Sparkling Conversations

I have recently had the privilege of observing senior classes across several subjects and I’ve been astounded with the level of general knowledge, engagement in learning and interest in making an impact. And yes, the confidence to engage in meaningful conversations and the drive to make a difference comes from having general knowledge.

Broadening our horizons, making connections and engaging in a bigger world are possible when we have the general knowledge ticket to captivate others with our wit. 

General knowledge is a superpower when it comes to making informed decisions. Whether it's healthy food choices, investment opportunities or budgeting strategies, being informed is our best guide in life.

When we are faced with a problem that requires a fast, effective solution, knowledge of history, science, geography and mathematics provides us with a toolkit of insight, enabling critical thinking and informed problem solving.

And general knowledge isn’t static - it grows with us, enabling growth, transformation and curiosity. It helps us adapt. It brings us joy. It enables us to add value to conversations and interactions.

So how do we cultivate general knowledge?

• First and foremost, we READ!!! Read widely. Mix it up. Stay curious. Have fun.
• Engage in conversations. Debate. Exchange ideas. This helps sharpen our ideas and develop our critical thinking skills.
• Experience different cultures however we can.
• Access technology - there’s almost an APP for everything.
• Stay curious and always wonder and question. 

General knowledge enriches us, enabling us to lead a curious, informed and connected full life.   

Maree McKelvie

Exchange Program

Last weekend, Tully Gennat (Year 10) headed off on his 3-month exchange to our sister school, Reitaku Mizunami in Japan. After a 2-month delay, due to a broken leg, he finally found himself navigating through international airports to arrive safely. Tully was met by his brother, Noah, who has been on exchange since September.

Tully told us that the one thing he has learned from this injury and delay, is that overcoming obstacles is a part of life and the true test is how you pick yourself up and soldier on - even when you don’t feel like it.

We hope Tully gains a lot from his time over in Japan and he enjoys catching up with his classmates - Rubee Shaw, Isabel Sparrius, Luca Mighell, Noah Gennat and Maya Farmer who have been immersing themselves in the Japanese culture and school life over the past two months.

They have been able to experience classes, after school clubs as well as school trips with hosts at Reitaku Mizunami.

They are all having a wonderful time and being able to learn about life in a dormitory at school but also life in a Japanese home with their homestay families.

Year 9 Excursion

Our Year 9 Japanese class escaped the heat today with a trip to the Botanic Gardens, where they enjoyed authentic Japanese Bento Box lunches under the shade of the trees. A gentle breeze made the experience even more refreshing – a perfect way to relax, learn, and savor Japanese culture together!  

Kirsten Binnie
Leader of Learning - Languages

SJPC Year 9 students were treated to a visit from Starr’s Planetarium as they were taken on a journey to explore our universe. Students were given an understanding of what Scientists are looking for when discovering other planets that might have water or life on them. They explored exoplanets in regions of space known as ‘The Goldilocks Zone’ - Planets that are not too hot and not too cold! A Fantastic experience for all involved.

Sally Poidevin
Teacher/Assistant Leader of Learning - Science

Year 9 PASS, SPES & Outdoor Education Elective Camp Recap: A Week of Fun, Fitness, and Team Building

The Camp Overview

Last week, the PE elective camp saw an enthusiastic group of 20 girls arrive for an action-packed Monday to Wednesday, followed by a second group of 50 boys who followed the same program from Wednesday to Friday. Hosted at the stunning South West Rocks, the camp focused on teamwork, resilience, and outdoor skills, setting up exciting challenges that tested each student’s endurance and spirit of collaboration.

Day 1: Setting Up Camp and Beach Activities

Upon arrival, the girls immediately showed off their teamwork by setting up our 9-man tents. With guidance, they completed the setup in record time, getting the campsite ready for a relaxing evening and activities.

After settling in, students were ready for their first set of activities at the beach. This included a round of beach games designed to bring out their competitive spirit and give everyone a chance to unwind while getting active. Following the games, the girls faced a series of physical challenges requiring agility, strength, and problem-solving. These activities set the stage for the final task of the day: a raft-building challenge, where students were tasked with constructing a seaworthy raft that could carry two team members through a marked course. The group’s creativity and resourcefulness shone as each team devised unique strategies and celebrated their successful completion of the challenge.

Day 2:  Tuesday for Girls & Thursday for boys  - Hiking from South West Rocks Jail to the Lighthouse

Day two’s agenda was set to test endurance and resilience with a hike from the historic South West Rocks Jail to the Lighthouse and back. As part of our resilience-building efforts, students tackled the scenic yet challenging trails. The hike offered a fantastic view of the area’s coastal beauty while pushing participants to overcome fatigue and support one another along the way. Team leaders rotated, ensuring that every student experienced a sense of responsibility and camaraderie.

Day 3: Wrapping Up and Farewell

The boys’ groups final day took on the responsibility of packing up, working as a unit to efficiently dismantle and clean up the campsite. The final activity was a casual stroll along the beach into South West Rocks for a burger and ice cream which gave the boys a chance to share their favorite moments, the skills they learned, and their thoughts on the importance of resilience and teamwork. 

Overall, the PE elective camp was a fantastic opportunity for students to develop physical fitness, resilience, and collaborative skills in a real-world setting. This camp will undoubtedly leave lasting memories for each participant and serve as a foundation for many of the life skills they will continue to build upon in their PE elective journey. A big thankyou to Mr Gregson who took on the role of camp organizer and instructor. Thanks also to Lex Caruthers, Mark Coster, Kurt Marle, Trish Furey, Brad Poidevin and Matt Cornelius for sharing their expertise and experience. 

Kurt Marle
Leader of Learning - PDHPE

NSWCCC 9/10 Girls Basketball

Our 9/10 girls represented the Diocese at the recent NSWCCC Basketball tournament in Sydney. Congratulations to the girls on their outstanding efforts and thank you to Tahlia Amos (Year 11) and Mr John Philip for coaching the girls.

The girls started their two-day tournament in high spirits. Despite being one player down the team was confident and determined. Day 1 went to plan with the girls defeating St Mary’s Gunnedah 66 - 6, St Charbel’s Punchbowl 80 - 40, and Monte North Sydney 54 - 30. Day 2 had the girls play their final round game against St Mary’s Woolongong and while the tussle was close on the court, they got away from us winning 57 - 38. This sat us in 2nd position in our pool and brought us up against Nagle, Blacktown in our quarterfinal. The game was unusual in that our girls won comfortably 73 - 51, however, one athlete scored 47 of the opposition's points! 

Our girls then came up against long-time rivals Xavier from Albury. Our last 3 encounters have had us take the advantage and run away with the win. Unfortunately, on this occasion, it was Xavier's turn to come up trumps winning 53 - 41. The girls tried their hardest but were dead on their feet unable to keep up with the opposition bench rotation. St Mary’s Wollongong were the eventual winners defeating Xavier in the Grandfinal.

The girls finished third in the state, a feat for which they should be proud. More importantly, the ladies displayed exceptional sportspersonship, generosity, compassion, and humility in all they did. They were a true credit to both the College and their families. 

Team List: Kira Juffermans, Tully Jarvis, Claudia Simpson, Ciara Murphy, Abbie Schmetzer, Chloe Griffin, Aribelle Dawes, Tahlia Amos (Coach) and Mr John Philip (Co-Coach)

Squash

Congratulations

Coming Up - Term 4 2024

Danielle McAra
Leader of Sport

NSW Department of Communities and Justice offer Youth Development Scholarships annually which you may be eligible to apply for. If you will be in Year 10, 11 or 12 in 2025 and are living in public housing, or are on the public housing waiting list, you are invited to apply. Students living in out-of-home care (regardless of whether you are living in public housing or not) are also eligible to receive this $1000 scholarship. 

Brad Poidevin & Kate Roberts

School Counsellors 

Compass - Reminder

Arriving Late or Returning from an Appointment

Students MUST sign in at the College Office if they are arriving late to school or if students are returning to school after an appointment.

If you are unable to contact the Office or provide a written note for a Late Arrival, once the student has signed into the Office, a notification will appear on your Compass Dashboard to prompt you to explain the partial absence with an attendance note.

Medical Information

Head Injuries

All Head Injuries to anyone in the school or associated with a School Activity are treated seriously.

Any students who receive a concussion or with a suspected concussion should be seen by a doctor with experience in managing concussion.

Students who have been diagnosed with a concussion, must have medical clearance before returning to School.

Parents, Carers and/or Guardians are strongly encouraged to advise the school when a student suffers a head injury when in their care, out of school time.

A five-day activity restriction will be recommended for any students who have suffered a head injury.

Finance

For fee related enquiries and payment plan assistance, please contact the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools by email: cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au

Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools - Fee Enquiry

Ph: 6653 1655

Office Hours: 8:30am to 4:00pm
Email: cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au

SJPC Communication - Facebook

Do you follow SJPC's Facebook page? This is where you will find reminders of upcoming social events, sporting updates, transport delays, job advertisements and photos of SJPC students participating in everyday life at the College.

To start following St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour please click on this link

Uniform Shop

Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am - 9:00am

Homework Centre

Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:20pm - 5:00pm

Planning is underway for the 2025 Ski Trip to Perisher Smiggins which will take place in the first week of winter school holidays next year (Depart SJPC Saturday 5 July – Return Saturday 12 July). It is available to students who will be in Year 11 and 12 2025. The cost of the Ski Trip is still being determined but will be approximately $2000. All transport is via long distance coach, and the accommodation will be in Jindabyne.

The cost will include:

i)    Lift passes and daily lessons for 5days for beginners and experienced skiers and snow-boarders.

ii)    Accommodation for 5 nights –Sunday to Friday 

iii)   5 breakfasts and 5 dinners

iv)    All transport

v)    Ski/ snow-board equipment hire including helmets, ski pants and ski jacket   

vi)    6 days entry pass to the National Park

Once the planning and the cost has been finalised, information will be distributed via Compass and a non-refundable deposit will be required prior to the end of year holiday break. 

If you have any questions regarding the Ski Trip please contact Mr Paul Corsalini at the College.

Mr Paul Corsalini
Teacher/Careers Adviser