22 November 2024 - Newsletter (Vol 41 No 18)
- Principal's Message
- SJPC - Introducing the RiTE Initiative: Investing in the Future of Teaching and Learning
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- SJPC Merit Award Recipients
- Curriculum Matters
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- G.O.A.T Retreat Inspires Year 10 Students
- HSIE - Year 11 Legal Studies
- HSIE - Year 9 Commerce
- Textiles and Design
- Drama
- Literacy Matters
- Sports Corner
- Visual Arts
- Library Matters
- Office News
- Study Skills Handbook - Overcoming Roadblocks
- Fundraising - Redkite
- Parish BBQ
- Christmas Markets & Parish Community Christimas Carols and Mass
The Letter and The Spirit
Just recently I was looking through some old newsletter items from colleague Principals and I want to share with you this wonderful piece written about relationships and dealing with people, particularly young people around rules and regulations. It is timely for us as a school as we start to look at our planning for 2025.
In short, the letter of the law is important but the spirit of the law is more so.
- The tennis principle – follow through
Thou shalt do as you say you will. Children know where they stand when you are consistent and follow through.
- The small mercies principle
Expect children to help but don’t expect them to do so graciously all the time. Work comes after play in most children’s dictionaries.
- The Vince Lombardi (NFL coach) principle
Remember that encouragement and praise will get children further than criticism and punishment, so be your child’s best encourager rather than their fiercest critic.
- The get what you ask for principle
Treat children as you want them to be. If you want responsible capable children then treat them as they are responsible.
- The elephant principle – have a thick hide
Thou shalt take everything they say with a large grain of salt. Not that children lie, but they have been know to exaggerate or see facts only from their side.
- The don’t miss the obvious principle
Thou shalt say you love each of your children once a day. Knowing they are loveable is the basis of self-worth.
- The Lord Nelson principle
Thou shalt pay attention to your children’s positive behaviour more than their negative behaviour. What you focus on expands so if you focus on the positive behaviour that is what you generally get.
- The self-imposed slavery principle
Thou shalt never regularly do for a child the things he or she can do for themselves. Remember your job is to make yourself redundant.
- The reality principle
Thou shalt set limits and boundaries for children and expect that they will push against them. Making life hard for parents in in many children’s job descriptions.
- The mirror principle
Thou shalt keep a sense of humour when dealing with children, as this will help you keep things in perspective. It may seem improbable but they will soon grow up and be out of your hair and be a living, breathing reflection of YOU.
God Bless
Michael Carniato
Principal
Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,
In mid-2023, Southern Cross University and Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools announced a significant research agreement to transform teacher education.
St John Paul College is excited to share that our school has been selected to join the innovative RiTE Initiative, aimed at creating world-class learning environments for students and revolutionising how teachers are prepared for their careers. Through this program, we welcome Master of Teaching students from SCU into our classrooms, where they will work closely with our experienced educators, gaining valuable, hands-on experience throughout the year.
You might wonder what this means for your child’s learning experience. The RiTE Initiative is designed to add value to our classrooms, bringing in fresh ideas and approaches that not only help to develop future teachers but also provide growth opportunities for our current teachers. Every student will benefit from enhanced teaching methods, more tailored support, and an even stronger focus on each child’s needs.
Our commitment to high-quality education remains as strong as ever. We’re thrilled to be part of this journey and to share these benefits with you and your family.
For further information about the RiTE Initiative and what it means for our school, please visit https://www.cofhslism.
Thank you for being part of our school community, where together, we are helping to shape the future of education.
Michael Carniato
Principal
At the heart of Catholic Social Teaching is a commitment to the preferential treatment of the poor, the inherent dignity of each person, and the call to compassion. These principles inspire us to act with kindness and generosity, ensuring that no one in our community is left behind. Our recent second-hand uniform drive is a beautiful example of these teachings in action, providing much-needed support to families within our school community. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed so far and encourage those who can, to continue donating. We are specifically looking to collect junior boys uniforms that are in good condition.Your donations of pre-loved uniforms not only ease the financial burden on families but also reflect the caring and supportive spirit of our community, fostering a stronger connection through the shared act of giving.
As we approach the festive season, our focus now turns to the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. This initiative aims to bring joy and hope to families experiencing hardship during this special time of year. We invite you to donate non-perishable Christmas food items or new children’s toys, which will be distributed to families in need. Together, let us continue to live out our mission of compassion and generosity, embodying the spirit of Christ this Christmas. Thank you for your continued support of these initiatives, which truly make a difference in the lives of others.
Assistant Principal - Mission
Student leadership helps young people find their voices, participate in decision-making, and understand their rights and responsibilities as active citizens. It helps students have a real impact on their learning and school environment and prepares them to participate meaningfully in their community. Students can be leaders in the classroom, through their actions in the playground, through their support for others, or their involvement in academic, sporting, cultural or local community events or projects.
Earlier this term a group of College leaders had the opportunity to attend the GRIP Student Leadership Conference. This workshop offered an unique experience in that it concentrates specifically on training student leaders for their role as school leaders. The style, topics, and content of this conference all focus on what the students can do right now.
https://www.gripleadership.com.au/content/secondary
This group that consists of Charlie Oates, Finn Benson, Will Buckley and Fletcher Wilby will make a presentation to the College Assembly in Week 7.
Recently the College held its annual Leadership Development Day for our Student College Leaders for 2025. The day began with an address from our guest speaker Mrs Denise Knight. Denise served on the Coffs Harbour Council for 13 years. She was first elected to the Council in 2008, before being elected mayor four years later. Denise began her second term as mayor after a conclusive re-election in 2016. She shared many stories of challenges and triumphs in her time in this leadership role and the link she made to her occupation as an ER Nurse. Denise made a particular point of saying how privileged she felt to have been able to serve the people of Coffs Harbour and how the role enabled her to grow as a person.
The itinerary for the day also involved a workshop on public speaking with Ms Cherie O’Brien. Ms O’Brien highlighted the need to take time when you speak publicly and how posture plays an important role.
Our day concluded with a team building and ‘facing your fears’ activities at Coffs Coast Adventure Centre under the guidance of the local staff and Mrs McCosker.
The experience of spending this day with our new College Leaders only helped confirm that the student body is in good hands as we head into 2025.
I take this opportunity to thank Cherie and Siobhan for their support on the day but most of all the students for the enthusiasm they displayed in the different activities throughout the day.
Until next time:
Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
ICAS Competition 2024
Last week during the College Assembly, we took the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of those who participated in the International Competition & Assessment for Schools - ICAS 2024.
These challenging tests were completed by thousands of students across the country every year, including the biggest cohort in SJPC’s history. They competed against 16,000 students in 41 different countries.
The questions in Maths, Science and English encouraged students to solve complex problems, think critically, apply their knowledge to new concepts, and use a variety of other higher order thinking skills that are crucial to your future success. This is why it is supported by the University of Sydney.
Life is a series of challenges, and putting these skills to the test is one of the best ways for you to tackle them, constantly improving and giving yourself the chance to achieve great things in life - a form of resilience. This is where academic care meets pastoral care.
I hope that our ICAS participants found the tests both mentally stimulating and challenging at this elite level. Students should be extremely proud of what they have achieved.
Firstly, I would like to celebrate our Merit Award recipients:
Merit Winners
 Harsaaj Lehl Year 7 Mathematics |
 Henry Foy Year 7 Mathematics |
 Archie Foy Year 9 Mathematics |
 Andria Maria Jaison Year 7 Science |
Henry Foy Year 7 Science |
 Mannat Dhariwal Year 9 Science |
 Lani Robinsen Year 9 English |
Archie Foy Year 9 English |
To our Credit Award recipients, these students received a Credit as they represent the next 10% of students worldwide above Merit recipients.
Credit Winners
 Eva Maguire Year 7 English |
Nate Stephenson
Year 7 English |
 Sophia McPherson Year 8 English |
 Jazlynn Donohue
Year 7
Mathematics |
 Polly Salter Year 7
Mathematics |
 Flynn Tsang Year 8
Mathematics |
 Madelyn Van Der Walt Year 10
Mathematics |
|
Nate Stephenson
Year 7 Science |
Archie Foy Year 9 Science |
Finally, we acknowledged our Distinction Award recipients. Students receiving a Distinction Award, represent the top 10% internationally. Their ICAS score places them in an elite group of higher order thinkers within Australia and the world.
Distinction Winners
|
Science |
Science |
Science |
|
English |
English |
 Finn Bishop Year 8
Mathematics |
 Banjo Dworjanyn Year 8
Mathematics |
I would also like to make special mention of Banjo Dworjanyn as he was one mark in his ICAS score off being an international medal winner…that is the top 1% of students internationally.
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Banjo Dworjanyn |
So to all students who were presented awards last week, your achievements are incredible, and we publicly honour your outstanding higher order thinking skills and the efforts you have made to develop them.
Well done on your fantastic achievements!
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
Assistant Principal
Learning and Teaching
Merit Awards
Below are our current Distinction Award recipients. We recognise student efforts not just at Assemblies but also within our Community throughout the year.
SJPC Merit Award Recipients
|
Year 7 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Year 7 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Year 8 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Year 8 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Year 9 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Year 10 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
AMDG
Acting Principal
There was a fantastic turnout for the last Elevate webinar, which was on stress and wellbeing, with over 1500 parents attending and taking part in the live Q&A segment!
Elevate Education webinars continue next week. 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 YOU CAN BUILD RESILIENCE IN YOUR CHILD
Wednesday 27 November 2024 @ 6:30pm (AEDT)
In this webinar Elevate will show parents how to:
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Practical strategies to help your child manage their response to setbacks
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Building your child’s resilience both in and out of school
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How ‘fear of failure’ can impact your child’s resilience
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Register for free using the link below,
Year 11
Over the next few weeks Year 11 students will be sitting and submitting their first HSC tasks for most of their courses. It is imperative they approach their study with an organised and balanced approach, using the effective study techniques which they have been encouraged to practice over the last 10 months.
Remember to continue to ask lots of questions in class and act on feedback from your teachers
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
Over the next few weeks Year 10 students will be sitting and submitting what will be their last formal assessment tasks for most of their Stage 5 courses. This is an opportunity to put into place some of the learning and study behaviours which are vital for success in Stage 6. Many students have self-identified what they need to be able to do for them to be well prepared for this transition and the workload and rigor that accompanies it. As always, the staff at SJPC are there to support and advise students and we encourage all students to seek out this support as needed.
Year 8
On Wednesday 20th November, Year 8 had their Pastoral Day which consisted of some beachwalking, Mass, swimming, playing and eating! The weather to begin with was not the best however, it improved throughout the day. Students were dropped off at 18th Ave in Sawtell and from there they walked along the beach to MHOC Catholic Church in Sawtell. A beautiful Mass was celebrated and led by Fr Joy and all students were exemplary! Following Mass we commenced our trek to Boambee Bay once again taking the beach route. Yours truly struggled up that headland but we all managed to get to the Bay safe and sound. Once there, the keen swimmers braved the cooler temperature of the water whilst others enjoyed structured games on the beach and at the reserve. However, once our BBQ lunch of sausage sandwiches arrived (courtesy of our maintenance staff) it was like a flock of seagulls darting to the shelter area for a well deserved feed. A great day was had by all and I would like to thank all teaching, TA and maintenance staff and especially the students for making the day such a great event!! Bring on Wet n Wild I say!
Year 8 Leader of Student Wellbeing
Year 11
Year 12 2025 Jersey
Year 11 have completed the planning process and have decided on a Indigenous design created by Aunty Vicki for their 2025 Jersey. The 2025 Jersey artwork symbolises each student’s educational journey, drawing inspiration from the ocean. The blue river represents a connection to the ocean. The blue and yellow colours reflecting the meeting of water and sand. These colours also tie students to their primary schools, St John Paul College, and the broader journey of life. The yellow and blue circles symbolise unity and diversity. The first circle represents their early journey in primary school, where some paths had already crossed while others had not. The central circle signifies their coming together in high school, united in learning and growth. The final circle represents their faith and life journey, echoing the ocean’s vastness and the endless learning that continues beyond school.
The Year 12 Jersey is a tradition at St John Paul College. It is a special piece of the college uniform intended to recognise each student’s achievement in reaching Year 12 and completing their secondary education. It also becomes a souvenir of the student’s time at the College. However, the purchase of the jersey is not compulsory.
The students can have their preferred version of their Christian name on the front of the jersey and can nominate to have their surname on the back of the jersey. No nicknames will be allowed on the jersey as per College policy. The cost of the Jersey will be $103.40 (including GST).
We have organised for payments to be made online directly to the manufacturer and an online shop has been set up to purchase the jerseys for the 2025 student orders. Please go to the following link where you will be able to complete the process online:
Year 12 2025 Jersey - click here to order via Team Spirit Sports
Password: SJPC25
The online shop will be open from Tuesday 19 November 2024 until Friday 29 November 2024.
Please contact me at the College if you have any questions.
Year 11 Leader of Student Wellbeing
The G.O.A.T Retreat was a transformative three-day experience, bringing together Year 10 male students from across the diocese for team building, friendship, and faith formation. Sonny Colyer, Jonathan Chojnowski, Jack Hartmann and Brodie Coster proudly represented St John Paul College.
Throughout the retreat, participants tackled both physical and spiritual challenges, reflecting on what it truly means to be a young Catholic man in today’s society. They explored their unique gifts and talents, developed practical skills, and built a toolkit to help navigate the transition into adulthood.
The retreat also focused on the importance of leadership and service, encouraging the students to take on their responsibility to inspire and support others in their communities.
We applaud Sonny, Jonathan, Jack and Brodie for their enthusiasm, engagement, and dedication to this program. They have shown themselves to be outstanding representatives of our school and young men ready to make a difference.
Matt Currie and Tim Davis
Year 11 Legal Studies and Year 10 future Legal Studies students recently participated in a dynamic workshop delivered by Crime Story, an organisation renowned for its immersive and educational approach to understanding the criminal justice system. Through real-world case studies and interactive activities, students gained valuable insights into legal processes, the complexities of criminal investigations, and the importance of critical thinking in the pursuit of justice.
The workshop was a resounding success, sparking meaningful discussions and enriching the students' understanding of legal concepts.
Leader of Learning - HSIE
Our Year 9 Commerce students have spent this term exploring the exciting world of innovation and entrepreneurship, showcasing their creativity and problem-solving skills. Through this project, they’ve developed unique products, services, and solutions aimed at addressing real-world challenges.
Students have worked diligently to create prototypes, design promotional materials, and produce development videos that highlight their innovative ideas. This hands-on experience has allowed them to combine critical thinking with practical skills, fostering a deeper understanding of business concepts and entrepreneurial strategies.
The culmination of their efforts is the Innovation Expo, where their hard work will be on display in the library. The event serves as a platform for students to present their projects, share their visions, and celebrate their achievements with peers, teachers, and families.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday, 28 November 2024
Time: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: College Library
This is an opportunity to see your child’s ideas come to life and celebrate their achievements. We look forward to welcoming you and sharing in the success of our young innovators.
Leader of Learning - HSIE
The Year 9 Textiles class had an engaging and enriching experience this semester. The unit on synthetic fibres and knit fabrics has provided them with a comprehensive understanding of how synthetic fibres are produced, and their properties and uses. Knit fabric construction was also explored, with students exposed to a vast range of different knits and their possible end purposes. Fabric embellishments were also investigated, with a focus on applique and embroidery. Students practiced different techniques, exploring their applications in the textile world.
For the practical component of the unit the "Toy World" theme is an excellent way to inspire creativity and allow students to see a project through from concept to completion. Students refined their ideas through design drawings, followed by the creation of a pattern, complete with pattern envelope, pieces, and instructions. They then used their own patterns to construct their own soft toys from knit fabric, featuring applique and embroidery embellishments.
The students documented their processes and ideas in a supporting documentation folio, discussing and justifying their choices along the way.
All students thoroughly enjoyed the unit and were encouraging of each other with their different designs and end products. They have each made a soft toy that they can be proud of!
Textiles Teacher
Drama Achievements Shine
What an incredible term it has been for our Drama students! We are beyond excited to celebrate the outstanding achievements of two of our talented students, Ava Harrison and Ruby Lawlor, who have both received remarkable recognition for their hard work and dedication to their craft.
Ava Harrison: HSC Drama OnStage Nomination
A huge congratulations to Ava Harrison, who has been nominated for the possible inclusion of her HSC Video project to be showcased at the NSW HSC Drama OnStage showcase!
This is an extraordinary achievement—only a select number of students are chosen for nomination from across New South Wales. If successful, Ava could have her video played to audiences at the HSC Drama showcase at the Seymour Centre in February next year. Congratulations Ava and we hope that you continue impressing audiences with your creative flair, innovative storytelling and love of film and theatre.
Ruby Lawlor: Shortlisted for the 2024 Bell Shakespeare Scholarship
Another round of applause goes to Ruby Lawlor, who has been shortlisted for the prestigious 2024 Bell Shakespeare Scholarship! Out of a highly competitive field of 90 students from across Australia, Ruby's talent has shone through, earning her a place in the next round of this incredible opportunity.
As part of the audition process, Ruby worked closely with Bell Shakespeare artists, engaging in a performance workshop, discussing her ambitions, and receiving valuable feedback on her craft. She now moves forward to the callback stage, where she will submit a video for further consideration by Bell Shakespeare’s artistic panel, including Founding Artistic Director John Bell, Artistic Director Peter Evans, Associate Director James Evans, and Head of Education Joanna Erskine.
The winners of the scholarship will be announced in December, and should Ruby be successful, she will embark on a journey filled with acting masterclasses, rehearsal observations, live theatre experiences, and the opportunity to receive mentorship from some of the finest in the field. This is a truly exciting prospect for Ruby, and we are so proud of her achievements so far.
We wish Ruby all the best in the next stage of the process and look forward to hearing more about her journey with Bell Shakespeare in the coming months.
Drama Excursion
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce that our Drama students will be travelling to Sydney on an exciting Drama excursion in Week 2 of Term 1 next year! This will be an incredible opportunity to further develop their skills and engage with the industry’s finest professionals.
The excursion will include a series of workshops with industry experts, allowing students to hone their craft, ask questions, and gain invaluable insights into the world of professional theatre. We are also lucky enough to have tickets to the acclaimed musical hit "Hadestown", which will provide our students with a unique opportunity to experience one of the most talked-about productions on the global stage.
Additionally, students will attend the HSC Drama Showcase, where they will be able to witness the outstanding work of other HSC students, and enjoy a performance of one of our HSC texts, "FanGirls", which promises to be both inspiring and insightful for those studying Drama.
We are all excited for this amazing learning opportunity, and can’t wait to see how it inspires our Drama students in their ongoing creative journeys.
Year 10 Drama – Musical Production in the Works!
In other exciting news, we are excited to invite you to our Year 10 Musical Performance directed by Year 11 Students on Thursday, 5 December 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM in the College Theatre. Our Year 10 Drama students have been working tirelessly on their musical production, and the results are looking spectacular! This project has been a wonderful chance for our Year 10s to stretch their creative muscles, collaborate with peers, and showcase their talent.
Congratulations to all of the Drama students and staff this term and we look forward to an exciting year with you all in 2025.
All things Literacy, because Literacy matters in all things
JOURNALING
“I think the reason we turn to journaling is to try and find answers that are already there,” explains Smiling Mind psychologist, Therese Sheedy.
“We don't know that we have the power within, to heal ourselves. But, when we start to journal, we realise we do.”
Journaling is a fantastic tool that anyone can use to encourage self expression and improve mental and physical wellbeing. While there is no one standard way to journal, it should be purpose driven. Identifying our motivation for journaling helps us focus our thoughts and get started with ease.
Achieve goals - keep close track of specific intentions and stay accountable.
Track progress and growth - as we revisit previous entries.
Gain self-confidence - and practise the beautiful art of writing. Using a journal to express thoughts and ideas helps overall communication skills.
Reduce stress and anxiety - as we stop and write down our emotions we release negative thoughts from the mind and this can help us find solutions. Expression journaling helps when we're faced with confusing or stressful events and need to sort the chaos.
Gratitude journaling is about shifting our mindset to be more present by actively focusing on good things that have happened and acknowledging where it came from and the impact. We become more adaptable and harmonious and more present.
Find inspiration - as we brainstorm and let the imagination run wild.
Strengthen memory - as we revisit and recall.
When we have multiple conflicting situations, journaling can help us to prioritise and determine the most important focus.
If you have never journalled it can be difficult to know exactly how to get started or what to write. The beauty of journaling is that it is very personal and there is no right or wrong.
Drawing Collaging Painting Sewing Making music Writing etc
Research has shown that the process of handwriting actually activates neural pathways in the brain that go near or through the parts of the brain that manage emotion.
Make your journal as creative and artistic as you like. Start journaling today.
Make journaling part of your holiday routine.
Maree McKelvie
Australasian Schools Futsal Champions!!
On Thursday 7 November, two very excited Futsal teams traveled to Brisbane to prepare for the Australasian Schools Futsal Championships. Our girls were against some big-name sports academy high schools from QLD, ACT, and Victoria in their divisions. Some of the teams the girls played were so professional they had sponsored uniforms with the player's names on them! Despite this, both teams dominated day 1 play, with the girls determined to exceed all expectations over the three-day tournament.
At the end of day 2 the 14s were still going strong and sat in equal 4th position, needing a win on Day 3 to move into 3rd place and the finals. While this did not eventuate, the girls should be proud of their efforts, finishing 5th overall.
The 13’s finished day 2 still on top of the ladder with an undefeated day again. This led them to a top-of-the-ladder clash on the morning of Day 3, a battle they conquered and which moved them into the final series. Congratulations to our 13’s girls Futsal team who were crowned Australasian Champions, soundly defeating Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School in the grand final, to remain undefeated for the entire tournament.
Jayda Crocker (14's), Eva Corsalini (13's) and Pippa Dodd (13's) were selected to represent Australia in the Australian All-Stars team in their respective age divisions at the World Championships in Japan in 2025. This is an amazing achievement and a well-deserved acknowledgment of the talent and skill that they demonstrated during the tournament.
Well done to all the players ladies, we are so proud!
A massive thank you to our coaches and managers who accompanied the girls, providing them with this special opportunity. Thank you to Louis Van Dartel, Tanya Slaviero and Mark Sultana. Without the dedication of our staff, events like this would not be possible.
Diocesan Golf
St John Paul College students showcased their golfing talents at the recent Diocesan Golf Tournament at South West Rocks Golf Club. The event brought together promising young golfers from across the diocese, all competing on the beautiful yet challenging course.
Our students demonstrated exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and determination throughout the tournament, facing varying conditions on the course. This annual event provided a fantastic opportunity for students to connect and play with their peers from other schools, all while enjoying a day of healthy competition and personal growth.
The tournament involved Gross, Net and Stableford events and although all the SJPC students had their chance to win, It was Harper McIntosh who was able to play consistently throughout the day posting an impressive 46pts to take out the Stableford event. Other notable results by our students included Ashton Herbert coming second in the Gross event, and Tomas Lupinski coming second behind Harper in the Net event.
We congratulate all participants and it was great to see so many players starting out on their golf career and representation of SJPC at this event. I’d also like to thank senior students Louis White and Ashton Herbert for their contribution to St John Paul's teams over the past few years and we look forward to seeing the younger players’ continued progress in future tournaments.
Mark Coster
Golf Coach
NSW Schools Cup State Finals
Diocesan Waterpolo Champions
With the Diocesan Waterpolo Championships being held over two days, our teams involvement was nothing short of exceptional.
On Thursday 14 November, the Senior teams ventured to the Alstonville pool to open our account with two gold medals! In the words of coach, Kirsten Binnie “What a fantastic day in the pool!” Both teams were amazing. The girls won many close games throughout the pool matches, including the Grand Final against Xavier where they pulled out a 2-1. Unlike the girls, our boys were undefeated the whole day and went on to dominate the Grand Final winning 7-1 again against Xavier. Gold all round!
The bus went back up the highway to Alstonville on Thursday 21 November but this time with our Junior teams. It was a great day, with both teams playing well despite not quite getting the quadruple gold.
The Junior boys had to play an extra game as they tied at the top of their pool. This hurt them in the Grand final when they just didn't have the petrol to match Woodlawn. They lost 5-0 but should be so proud of how they played all day.
The Girls made the Grand final too and it was a very tight game. They had extra time after being even at the end of normal time. Then the score was once again even after extra time, meaning the girls went to penalty shootout. After 10 attempts, our valiant girls lost to MacKillop. It was a heartbreaking loss as the teams were so evenly matched, however, the silver medal is still an amazing achievement.
The results of all four teams put SJPC firmly at the top of the Diocesan Championship ladder in Waterpolo once again. Well done to all our teams, the dedicated and devoted coaching of Kirsten Binnie, the sterling assistance of Trish Furey, and the amazing generosity of Jesse Druzinec.
Diocesan Netball Champions
Grafton welcomed our Netball teams on Tuesday 19 November for the annual Diocesan Netball Championships. Despite some drizzle at the start of the day, the weather cleared up and some fast-paced skilled netball was played.
Our Senior girls produced an amazing result in what was a challenging event. The girls went through the pool games undefeated and came from behind to win a very tough semi-final game. In the grand final against Trinity, the team was not able to replicate the semifinal but should be very proud of achieving Diocesan Runner-Up Champions!
Our 9/10 girls had a fun day in Grafton. The team was an enthusiastic bunch of girls who improved greatly over their four games. Unfortunately, they had limited success on the day but enjoyed themselves none-the-less. Well done girls.
The 7/8 netball team had a very successful day, comfortably winning all games in the rounds, and progressing to the finals. After successfully winning against Mackillop Port Macquarie they progressed to the grand final against Trinity College, Lismore. With the goal of completing the day undefeated Champions, the girls outplayed Trinity with a 14-10 win, crowning them the Diocesean Champions.
League Tag
Our League tag teams competed in the Coffs Region League Tag Gala day hosted by the NRL at Geoff King Motors Oval on Thursday 21 November. All teams had a wonderful day, competing against schools such as Bellingen High, Melville High, Nambucca High, Woolgoogla High, Orara High, South Grafton High, Toormina High, Coffs High and Dorrigo High. Our students were outstanding in both attitude and performance with some impressive results.
13’s girls - undefeated (for and against the result of 20 -1!!!)
15s girls - undefeated
13’s boys- undefeated
15’s boys - undefeated
The SJPC Opens Boys teams competed in the recent NRL Rugby League Tag Carnival, playing four games against Toormina High, Coffs Harbour High, Orara High, and South Grafton High schools. Both teams secured two hard-fought victories, showcasing excellent teamwork and gameplay.
Highlights included strong progressive running by Huon McDermott and Ollie Fitzgerald, dynamic attacking plays from Nate Dawes and James Watson, and the disciplined defense from Connor Ryan, Louis White and Sonny Burrell. Riley Patten was a notable mention showcasing some crafty dummy half-play to score, with all players demonstrating impressive skill and effort across all matches. Equally notable was the outstanding sportsmanship displayed by the teams, who represented SJPC with respect and integrity both on and off the field.
Congratulations to the boys on a successful day, embodying the values of teamwork and fair play!
Will Gregson
Coach
Year 8 and 9 Sport reminders
Sports selections for Term 1 2025 are well underway. Please remember to make a note of these key dates:
22 November: Compass events pushed to parents for paying sports
10 December: Sport payment closing date (no late payment will be accepted. Please contact the Finance department directly if you require an extension for payment).
11 December > Timetables for Term 1 2025 finalised.
2025 Representative Sport
The calendar for most sports has now been set. The first sports for 2025 are the Diocesan trials for Touch football, Rugby League (male and female) and Football.
The Lismore Diocese will be holding trials for 15 Boys, 15 Girls, Open Boys & Open Girls Touch Teams on Tuesday 4 March in Toormina. The start time of these trials is 9am. To nominate for these teams, please fill out the form below. Students will then be selected to trial for each squad and a team will be chosen at the trials. NOT ALL STUDENTS WHO NOMINATE WILL BE SELECTED TO TRIAL.
Diocesan Teams will compete at the NSWCCC Touch Football Selection Trials at Tuggerah, Central Coast, on the Tuesday 29 and Wednesday 30th April (tournament also doubles as the NSWCCC Diocesan Championships).
Closing date for nominations is the Friday 21 February 2025. Students selected to trial will be published on the Lismore Diocesan Sport Website and Sport Coordinators will be informed.
*The cost of the trial will be $12 plus any applicable travel costs to be paid to your school's coordinator upon selection to trial. Your school's sports coordinator will provide information to you regarding the total cost of the excursion if you are selected to trial.
** PLEASE NOTE: IN NOMINATING FOR THESE TRIALS, YOU ARE COMMITTING TO TRAVEL TO THE TUGGERAH, CENTRAL COAST IF SELECTED. THIS WILL REQUIRE PRIVATE TRANSPORT TO THE VENUE AT THE ATHLETE'S EXPENSE.
Lismore Diocese Touch Football Nomination form
Congratulations
Coming Up - Term 4 2024
Term 4 |
| Wednesday 27 November |
3 x 3 Coffs Schools Basketball Tournament, Sportz Central |
2025 |
| Friday 21 February |
SJPC Swimming carnival, Coffs Harbour |
| Tuesday 24 February |
Diocesan League Individual Trials, Woodlawn |
|
Diocesan Football Individual Trials, Coffs (TBC) |
|
| Tuesday 4 March |
Diocesan Touch Individual Trials, Toormina |
| Thursday 6 March |
Diocesan Swimming Championships, Lismore |
| Thursday 13 March |
Diocesan Open Basketball Championships, Coffs Harbour |
Leader of Sport
Our students unleashed their creativity by crafting "crazy monster critters" inspired by the imaginative works of artist James De Rosso! They brought their imaginative creatures to life using newly learned clay-building techniques such as pinch pots and coiling. Adding interesting textures and whimsical details, each student gave their critter a personality and contributed to a collection of fantastical, one-of-a-kind creations that showcase their developing skills and boundless imagination.
Vicki Foggiato
Leader of Learning - Visual Arts
Overdue Resources
We've noticed many resources from Terms 2 and 3 are overdue. Please encourage your child to locate and return these items as soon as possible. You will have received reminder emails.
All library resources borrowed this year are due back by Monday, 2nd December. This will allow library staff time to return, clear and repair the resources.
Responsibility for Borrowed Items
Please remember that students are responsible for any resources borrowed in their name. If a resource cannot be found, you will need to pay for its replacement through the Compass app.
Borrowing Restrictions for 2025
To ensure smooth borrowing for the new school year, please ensure all 2024 resources are returned before the end of the year. Students with outstanding resources will not be able to borrow until their records are clear.
Holiday Borrowing
Starting Wednesday, 11 December, returning students may borrow resources for the holidays, provided they have returned all 2024 items.
Sharon Brennan
Teacher Librarian
Apply now for 2025 school bus travel passes
Bus passes
- All students catching the bus in 2025 will need a school travel pass.
- Under the School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS), eligible students can apply for free or subsided travel between home and school.
- For more information about the School Student Transport Scheme and how to apply for a school travel pass, visit https://apps.transport.nsw.
gov.au/ssts/#/ from a desktop computer.
- Go to busways.com.au/nsw
- Click on ‘school services’ in the navigation bar and then proceed to ‘school timetables’
- Enter the school’s name in the field that says ‘enter a school name’
- Select the school’s name and the timetable should open on your device. If you are unable to find or search for the school’s name, use the drop-down menus on the same web page to find the school.
- Once the timetable is opened, you will be able to identify which school bus services are available in your area for your child to use.
2025 Uniform Shop - Holiday Trading Hours
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.catholi
Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools - Fee EnquiryPh: 6653 1655Office Hours: 8:30am to 4:00pm
Email: cofhs-fees@lism.
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
Student Diary
Helpful information is found in the student diary regarding daily college procedures. Please take the time to go through the student diary with your child.
Lost Property
Please encourage your child to visit the Office if they have lost any school items. Please mark your child's name on all school items, including airpods, pencil cases, drink bottles, sport bags and school uniform.
Uniform Shop
Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am - 9:00am
Homework Centre
Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:20pm - 5:00pm
Teacher's Aide
