Assistant Principal - Mission - Staff and Student Wellbeing

Welcome back to what we all hope will be a more normal term than the past, but who knows? At SJPC I can assure parents we are continually changing and evolving to be ready for whatever the future may throw our way.

Over the next two weeks members of the College community will be completing the Diocese of Lismore School Improvement Survey (DOLSIS). Many thanks to the parents, who were randomly selected, to complete and return the survey. Your time is very much appreciated and help contribute to the various improvements we see around the school.

At last week’s College Assembly, Mr Furey and I discussed the importance of the College uniform and how it is worn. A summary of the presentation is below with much of the information coming from “What are good reasons for wearing uniforms?”:

• School uniforms promote learning. Just like a switch turns the light on, the College uniform lets the brain know it is ‘go time’ and performance is encouraged. Students can concentrate on what to learn not what they should wear.
• School uniforms nourish a sense of equality. To some extent, uniforms avoids ‘the have and the have not’ theory.
• School uniforms promote a sense of community. Each and every SJPC student should be proud of their school. Wearing their uniform well displays this fact.
• School uniforms make it easy to get ready for school.
• School uniforms improve safety around the school. Whether it be in the kitchen, wood tech room or science lab, a well-worn uniform promotes safety.
• School uniforms do not eliminate individuality. Individuality is witnessed every day in the different personality characteristics students put on show.
• School uniforms are durable and cost effective. The College Uniform shop operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7:30am and 9:00am staffed by very friendly staff.

As with all areas of school life, the relationship between home and school needs to be positive if the student is to realise their potential. The College’s uniform guidelines clearly outline the expectations of its students. This can be found on page 10 then 18 and 19 of the College diary. Parents are encouraged to play their role by expecting their child to be organised the night before school to avoid jumpers being lost or shoes taken by the dog. Other areas that must be mentioned and regularly checked by parents include the correct length of the girl’s skirt, hats that are graffiti/colour free, extreme haircuts and colours. Come on, together (staff, students and parents) we can make a difference.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding uniform, please do not hesitate to contact your respective Year Coordinator or one of the Assistant Principals.

Until next time: 

Dear Young People

Do not bury your talents, the gifts God has given you!

Do not be afraid to dream of great things.

Pope Francis.