Leaders of Student Wellbeing
Year 8
Dear Parents and Year 8 Students,
As I prepare to step away for a short time to focus on the arrival of our newest addition to the family, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the journey we have shared together.
Over the past two years, it has been a privilege to walk alongside Year 8, supporting and celebrating the growth of this wonderful group of students from their first days in Year 7 through to the confident and capable Year 8s they are today. I have had the joy of witnessing friendships form, challenges overcome, and the incredible resilience and kindness that so many of our students bring into our College each day.
For me, this role has never been just about wellbeing—it has been about connection, trust, and the small but powerful moments where students feel seen, heard, and supported. I am so grateful for the countless conversations, the laughter, and even the hard times, because they have all been part of shaping the strong, vibrant group we see now.
Parents, thank you for entrusting me with your children’s care and for the partnership we have built together. And to Year 8 - thank you for letting me be part of your journey. I carry with me so many memories that I’ll hold onto until I see you again.
Although I will be away on maternity leave for a time, please know that my thoughts and heart remain with this wonderful year group. I am excited to see all that you will continue to achieve, both as individuals and as a community.
I thank both Matt Currie, acting Leader of Student Wellbeing and Matthew Quinton, acting assistant Leader of Student Wellbeing in advance for their hard work and support that I know will extend to all Year 8 students in my absence.
I’ll miss you all,
Alana Johnson
Year 8 Leader of Student Wellbeing
Year 9
Year 9 Awards
We are proud to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of our students who received College Commendation and Distinction Awards this term:
| College Commendation Awards |
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 Scarlett Thomas |
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| College Distinction Award |
 Danika Denner
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Term 3 Highlights
As Term 3 comes to a close, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on the exciting opportunities and experiences our Year 9 students have been part of:
- Poetry in Action workshops
- Artist in Residence – Joel Moore (“Mulga”)
- Year 9 Pastoral Day at the racecourse
- Catch the Wave program
- History excursion
- Selection of our new SRC representatives
Holiday Wishes
We wish all students and families a safe and enjoyable holiday break. Take the time to rest, recharge, and return refreshed for another exciting term ahead.
See you in Term 4!
Year 10
The past few months of a very busy and productive Term 3 have been a whirlwind of activity, and the dedication and hard work shown throughout by our young people have been truly inspiring.
Academic and Spiritual Growth
A significant milestone for students this term has been the careful consideration and selection of subjects and pathways for 2026, with students showing great maturity in their approach to senior schooling. On the academic front, students have been diligently working through assessments and completing their Term 3 exams. Congratulations to all the students who have worked incredibly hard this term and who have received Commendation Awards: Aidan Skimmings, Archer Moore, Ava Potter, Bo Dodd, Brock Fardell, Cami Graham, Charlotte Stewart, Chloe Griffin, Cooper Gunther, Daniela Recinos Garcia, Emily Mossman, Eva Pronesti, Evan Jacobs, Finn Willoughby, Hope Cassidy, Lexie Heron, Lila Webb, Lilianna Ratcliffe, Madeline Suokallio, Malila Soper-Flick, Matilda Keoller, Matthew Kearns, Matthew Killey, Mia Littler, Noah Baylis, Oliver Bath, Oliver Smith, Paula Gutierrez Santana, Riley Duff, Rowdy Bonus, Sophie Dunn, William Bickle-Smallwood and Yaminn Aarts.
Beyond the classroom, our students have continued to grow spiritually. Through our pastoral lessons, they have strengthened their connection to our school values. The recent Retreat and the Shine program were powerful experiences that provided a space for reflection and personal growth. The commitment of our students to making a difference is truly remarkable. This term saw significant involvement in important initiatives, such as RUOK and the Winter Sleepout, raising awareness and support for crucial causes. The students’ willingness to give back was also evident on SJPC Day, where they lent a helping hand at many of the stores.
Extracurricular Success and Community Impact
Our students have also excelled in a wide range of extracurricular activities. Once again, our musicians shared their talents at different times throughout the term. We’ve seen incredible participation and success in various sporting events, with many students representing our school with pride, both in school competitions and as part of the wider community including The Rocky Trail Academy North Coast Schools MTB championship, Bill Turner Cup, NSW CCC Soccer, Rugby Union, League, AFL and Athletics, to name a few, highlighting the many unique skills and talents within this group.
Leadership and Gratitude
I would like to acknowledge all the students who attended the retreat and graduation this term—rare and meaningful moments that leave a lasting impact. Those who took part experienced the power of stepping away from the everyday to reflect, connect, and gain a fresh perspective. Through shared stories and insights—especially from our inspiring keynote speaker Andre Holmes (Class 2004) at Graduation—they were reminded of the strength in vulnerability and the value of being present. These experiences don’t just mark an occasion—they shape the journey ahead.
Special congratulations go out to the students who have been selected as school leaders for 2026. This is a testament to their character and their commitment to our school community. I also extend a heartfelt thank you to our current Student Representative Council (SRC) Jacob Chappell, Paula Gutierrez Santana, Adelaide Keating, and Lucas Cung Tho. It’s wonderful to know that your leadership will continue to benefit the school in different capacities next year.
As we look forward to a well-deserved break, it's a great time to reflect on our achievements and set new personal and academic goals for Term 4. I wish all of our students a safe and restful holiday. You’ve earned it.
