28 February 2025 - Newsletter (Vol 42 No 2)
- Principal's Message
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- School Evangelisation
- School Catechesis
- Leader of Student Engagement
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- Year 7 Belonging Night
- NAPLAN 2025
- Drama Excursion
- Encore Music Excursion
- Year 8 Students - Forensic Science Camp
- Sports Corner
- TAS
- Literacy Coach
- Office News
- Year 7 Vaccinations - Friday 28 March 2025
- Parent Representative Body
- Family Advocacy
- Study Skills Handbook - From "To Do" to "Done": Task Prioritisation
As part of our ongoing commitment to the safety and dignity of every child entrusted to our care, I would like to highlight the importance of the NSW Child Safeguarding Standards. Rooted in our Catholic values, these standards guide us to ensure that all children, including secondary students, are protected from harm and their rights are respected.
In alignment with our faith, we see child safeguarding not just as a duty, but as a moral imperative that reflects our mission to uphold the dignity of every child, created in the image and likeness of God.
What Are the NSW Child Safeguarding Standards?
The NSW Child Safeguarding Standards have been introduced to foster safe and nurturing environments for children and young people in schools and organizations. These standards provide a framework for creating a culture of safety, care, and respect within our communities, emphasizing the prevention of harm and the active engagement of children in their own protection.
As a Catholic school, we are guided by the teachings of the Church, which uphold the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. These standards are not only aligned with government policy but resonate deeply with our faith’s commitment to protect and promote the well-being of all God’s children.
Key Areas of Focus
- Leadership, Governance, and Culture: In keeping with Catholic teaching on stewardship and responsibility, we ensure that child safeguarding is integrated into all levels of school leadership, fostering an environment of care that reflects Christ’s love for all His children.
- Child Participation: Reflecting our belief in the inherent value of each child, we encourage students to speak up and actively participate in matters that affect them. We believe that children’s voices, as part of God’s creation, should be heard and respected.
- Child Protection: Following the example of Jesus, who welcomed and protected the vulnerable, we have clear and transparent processes in place to identify and respond to any concerns about a child’s safety, both at school and in the wider community.
- Risk Management: In accordance with the principles of justice and responsibility, we regularly assess and mitigate risks, ensuring that both physical and online environments are safe places where our students can grow and thrive.
- Training and Education: As a school committed to faith, we ensure that our staff, students, and parents are equipped with the knowledge and skills to protect children, just as we are called to educate them not only in academics but also in living the values of the Gospel.
- Collaboration with Families and Communities: Rooted in the Catholic understanding of community, we recognize that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility. We encourage strong partnerships between the school, parents, and the broader faith community to ensure the safety and well-being of every child.
What Does This Mean for Your Child?
For parents and caregivers, the NSW Child Safeguarding Standards reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure that our children are safe, nurtured, and supported in all areas of life. The safety and dignity of each student is central to our Catholic ethos, and we are committed to fostering an environment where all students are respected, valued, and given the opportunity to grow in faith and knowledge.
As we continue to implement these standards, we invite you to join us in supporting your child’s journey towards becoming a responsible, compassionate, and faith-filled young person. Together, we can help ensure that our school remains a place where every child is treated with love, respect, and the dignity that comes with being a child of God.
How Can You Get Involved?
As active members of our school community, your role in safeguarding is invaluable. Here are a few ways you can support the implementation of these standards:
- Stay informed: Take time to familiarize yourself with the standards and how they are being integrated into the life of the school.
- Encourage open communication: Talk with your child about their experiences at school, and encourage them to always share their feelings. Remind them that they are loved by God and by us.
- Know your rights and responsibilities: Understand the policies and procedures in place for safeguarding, and be an advocate for your child’s well-being.
Our Commitment to Safety
At SJPC we are committed to fostering a safe, faith-filled environment where all children are protected from harm and nurtured in their growth. The NSW Child Safeguarding Standards guide us as we strive to live out the values of our Catholic faith. Together, with your support and collaboration, we will continue to work to ensure that every child can experience the fullness of life that God desires for them.
Should you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out. Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in safeguarding our children’s well-being.
God bless.
Michael Carniato
Principal
As we embark on our 2025 College Mission Goal - To strengthen our Catholic identity and culture with a focus on the Charism of Pope St. John Paul II - it is important to begin with an understanding of the gifts that the Holy Spirit freely gives us to guide our lives.
Scripture tells us: “The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of counsel and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord.” (Isaiah 11:2). These gifts are not meant just for a chosen few; they are for all of us, helping us to navigate daily challenges and grow in faith.
For example, wisdom helps a student decide how to handle peer pressure, while fortitude gives parents strength to guide their children with love even in difficult moments. Understanding allows us to see the struggles of our friends and offer genuine support, and counsel helps us make choices that align with our faith when facing tough decisions.
This year, as we focus on strengthening our Catholic identity, let us reflect on how we can use these gifts in our daily lives - within our school, families, and communities. The Holy Spirit calls each of us to live with faith and purpose, embracing our mission as followers of Christ.
In the next newsletter, we will explore how these gifts manifest in the life of the Church as charisms - special graces that shape our identity, mission, and distinct Catholic culture.
Finally, please join me and millions around the world in praying for the health and recovery of Pope Francis as he receives care in hospital.
Loving God, we entrust Pope Francis into Your hands.
Grant him strength, healing, and peace.
Guide those caring for him
and fill his heart with Your grace.
Amen.
Assistant Principal - Mission
One of the items on the agenda for Tuesday’s SJPC Parent Representative Body Meeting is a discussion around parenting teens. In light of this I have borrowed some information that recently appeared in the St Augustine’s newsletter that might be of use.
Adolescence is a time of huge change, physically, emotionally and socially. Teenagers are developing their own sense of identity while navigating through all the influences of family, friends and society. It is perfectly normal, and necessary, for teenagers to develop their independence and own ideas of where they fit into the world. It is almost a right of passage for teenagers to push boundaries in the form of challenging beliefs and rules that they readily accepted as a younger child. This is their way of establishing independence but can, however, lead to difficult behaviours. Teenager’s emotions often appear to be on a roller coaster as they attempt to find ways of dealing with peers and other adults. This may surface as conflicts and disagreements with parents, teachers and other authority figures. It is important for us to remember teenager’s brains are still developing. It is also important to allow teenagers to understand you are there to support them, even when they make mistakes. Some ways we can do this are by:
- Respecting their privacy and supporting them in developing their own unique identity.
- Letting them know you are willing to listen and assist them to solve problems or difficulties they may be having.
- Showing interest in their ideas, feelings, and friends.
- Showing them that you are willing to understand their need for independence.
Blue Sky Community Services in Coffs Harbour is facilitating a range of upcoming parenting programs. These are free programs with refreshments provided and lunch provided for the Tuning Into Teens all-day session. There are online and face-to-face sessions available for the Teen Tactics, #Addicted, School Avoidance and the Age of Rage Programs.
The Blue Sky course linked below may be of interest to you:
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| Tuning into Teens (All Day Session) | Thursday, 27 Feb, 9am - 3pm |
| Tuning into Teens (3 x 2 hourly sessions) | Thursday, 6 March, 10am - 12pm Thursday, 13 March, 10am - 12pm Thursday, 20 March, 10am - 12pm |
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| School Avoidance: Overcoming school-related stress and anxiety | Monday, 7 Apr, 10am - 12pm AEST Monday, 7 Apr, 4:30pm - 6:30pm AEST Monday, 12 May, 10am - 12pm AEST Monday, 12 May, 4:30pm - 6:30pm AEST |
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| Age of Rage: Responding to your teen's anger and aggression | Monday, 3 March, 10am - 12pm AEDT Monday, 3 Mar, 4:30pm - 6:30pm AEDT Monday, 26 May, 10am - 12pm AEST Monday, 26 May, 4:30pm - 6:30pm AEST |
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Raising Children Network – Teens development |
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Headspace – Understanding adolescence: for families |
Compass Assessment Information
Some parents may not be aware but SJPC has its assessment calendars for each Year Level on Compass. Parents will need to log into the Compass website (not the Phone App) and click on the “favourites” tab and then click on the “assessment” link. This will take families to the SJPC Assessment & Curriculum Google Site.
The graphics below shows this link on a parent’s Compass webpage:
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
Let's get ready for Lent!
Ash Wednesday will be celebrated at the college on Wednesday, 5 March, marking the beginning of Lent. This will also be the launch of Project Compassion, an important initiative promoting almsgiving and helping those in need.
To kick off fundraising efforts, the Year 10 Ministry team will be leading activities, starting with a Pancake Breakfast on Shrove Tuesday (4 March). Students are encouraged to bring cash to purchase pancakes for breakfast in the bus bay, supporting a great cause while enjoying a delicious treat.
Students will also be invited to take part in a Mufti Day & Bake Sale (Friday 4 April) where students will be asked to wear Project Compassion colors and take part in a bake sale at lunch to raise funds for charity.
Ways Parents Can Support Their Teen During Lent
Lent is a meaningful time for reflection, prayer, and growth, and as a parent, you have a unique opportunity to support your high schooler in deepening their faith. While fasting and sacrifice are key aspects of Lent, it can also be a time of joyful connection and spiritual renewal as a family. Here are some engaging ways to walk alongside your teen during this season.
1. Create a Lenten Challenge Together
Encourage your teen to set a personal Lenten challenge, whether it’s giving up social media for an hour a day, doing a daily act of kindness, or reading a chapter of the Bible each night. To make it fun, create a family challenge where everyone participates and keeps each other accountable.
2. Cook a Simple Meal Together on Fridays
Since Lent emphasises fasting and abstaining from meat on Fridays, take this as an opportunity to cook a simple meal together. Try making a meatless dish, like homemade veggie pizza or pasta, and reflect on the meaning of sacrifice over dinner.
3. Volunteer as a Family
Service is a great way to embrace the Lenten spirit. Find a local charity, food pantry, or community service project and volunteer together. It’s a powerful way to bond while living out the values of compassion and selflessness.
4. Start a Gratitude or Prayer Journal
Encourage your teen to keep a Lent journal where they can reflect on their faith journey, write prayers, or list things they’re grateful for. Parents can join in and make it a shared habit by discussing their entries over a weekly family meal.
5. Go on a Prayer Walk
Instead of giving up something, consider adding a new habit—such as a weekly prayer walk. Take a stroll in your neighbourhood or a nearby park while reflecting on Scripture or discussing meaningful topics. This not only strengthens faith but also allows for quality parent-teen time.
6. Encourage Digital Fasting with a Twist
Instead of just "giving up" social media, encourage your teen to use their digital time for positive impact—like sharing uplifting messages, engaging in online Bible studies, or sending kind notes to friends.
7. Celebrate Sundays with a Special Tradition
Sundays in Lent are not counted as fasting days, so use them as a time to celebrate together. Have a special family breakfast, attend Mass or church together, and reflect on how the week went in terms of Lenten commitments.
By actively engaging in Lent with your high schooler, you’re not only fostering their spiritual growth but also strengthening your relationship. The key is to make it meaningful, fun, and reflective—helping them see Lent as a time of renewal rather than just sacrifice.
Transitus Retreat – 27-28 March 2025
Location: Yarrahapinni Adventist Youth Centre, Grassy Head
Transitus is a special retreat designed for Year 7 students to deepen their discipleship with Jesus Christ, strengthen their connection to His Church, and support their transition into Catholic secondary school.
Transitus Retreat - Expression of Interest Google Form have been shared on Year 7 Catholic Studies Google Classrooms.
Applications close: Wednesday 5 March 2025
LEAD – Senior Student Leadership Event
Date: Thursday 20 – Friday 21 March 2025
Location: McAuley Catholic College, Grafton
LEAD is a two-day Catholic leadership event for senior students engaged in Youth Ministry who want to grow closer to God, strengthen their faith, and become better equipped for mission. Inspired by Christus Vivit, the vision of LEAD is for each student to know that they are good, loved, created for more, and empowered for mission.
LEAD - Expression of Interest Google Form has been shared on Year 11 and 12 Catholic Faith in Action and Studies of Religion Google Classrooms.
Applications close: Friday 28 February 2025
Ignite Launch – 17 May 2025
Location: Dreamworld, Gold Coast
Ignite Launch is an exciting, drug and alcohol-free event filled with fun, friendship and faith. Open to high schoolers, young adults, and families, the day will feature thrilling activities, competitions and opportunities to deepen your faith in a vibrant atmosphere.
If there is enough interest, we will arrange a school bus for the event.
Cost: $130 per ticket (bus cost additional tbc).
Expression of Interest Google Forms have been shared on Year 7-12 Catholic Studies Google Classrooms.
Applications close: Friday 25 April 2025.
For more information about any of these events, speak with Sarah de Byl (Leader of School Evangelisation), Oliver Dwyer (College Youth Minister), or Leanne Gennat (Assistant Principal Mission).
As you can see, a lot is happening in the Evangelisation space, and we are looking forward to an incredible year ahead! Let’s embrace the spirit of faith, leadership, and community together.
Leader of School Evangelisation
In the Catholic Studies’ classroom we aim to guide our students through rich classroom content and spiritual guidance.
We hope that EVERY student graduates with a closer connection to the person of Jesus Christ and a strong connection to the tenets of the Catholic faith. We aim to help students become good humans, based on the model of Jesus Christ.
From Bishop Greg Homeming:
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Lismore are committed to offering families a quality education that provides opportunities for students to come to know the depth of God’s merciful love which is offered to each of us individually. Our Catholic schools seek to provide students with an education that inspires them to become good citizens within Australian society who live out their lives with meaningful purpose, compassion for others and care for creation.
As we approach the Season of Lent, students will be encouraged to contemplate the meaning of this holy season , undertaking Lenten activities in the classroom and understanding the importance of Project Compassion. Pope Francis also reminds us to:
Janine Sawtell
Leader of Catechesis
A Month of Growth and Grace
The first month of the school year has flown by, and what a wonderful start it's been! As we settle into routines and build new friendships, we've been reflecting on the importance of creating a nurturing and supportive environment for all our students.
Pastoral care is at the heart of our mission at St John Paul College, and this month homeroom teachers and staff have focused on three key virtues that underpin a strong and compassionate community: trustworthiness, thoughtfulness, and commitment.
We’ve seen countless examples of trustworthiness and encourage students to be reliable and dependable, knowing that trust is the foundation of a healthy community.
Thoughtfulness has also been a central virtue. We’ve emphasised the importance of empathy and kindness, encouraging students to consider the feelings and needs of others.
Finally, we’ve highlighted the commitment shown by students and staff alike. Allowing students to embrace new challenges with enthusiasm.
Last Wednesday all our year groups engaged in their first pastoral assemblies for the year and covered a range of topics including inclusive language (Year 9), discovering values central to the year group Year 12), and looking at stewardship and its importance (Year 10) just to name a few.
Our Leaders of Student Wellbeing and Assistants, along with their homeroom teaching team, do a fantastic job to present relevant and topical presentations on issues faced by their respective year groups. All of this occurs under the banner of this term's pastoral topic - Belonging.
As we move into the months ahead, it is always a fantastic opportunity to continue to cultivate these virtues and more, by asking questions and starting conversations at home about the topics. Trying to find out about what your child has been learning in these pastoral assemblies will continue to build a community where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Mark Coster
Leader of Student Engagement
Year 8
A Positive Start to the Year
We are incredibly proud of the way our Year 8 students have started the year, demonstrating a strong sense of community and kindness in their daily interactions. Throughout the term, our message has focused on the importance of showing everyday kindness to those we encounter, whether that be through a simple smile, a thoughtful gesture, or offering support to a peer in need.
This week, Mark Coster, our Leader of Student Engagement, visited Year 8 to speak about our behaviour management system, particularly the level system and the expectations required within the college. His presentation aimed to ensure that all students understand their role in contributing to a positive and respectful school environment.
In addition to this, Mr Coster delivered an engaging session on the importance of inclusive language, reinforcing the message that our words matter. He encouraged students to be mindful of how language can impact others and to foster an environment of acceptance and respect. We encourage parents to continue these conversations at home, helping their children appreciate the value of diversity and recognising the unique, God-given talents of every individual in our community.
This week Year 8 had their first pastoral lesson for the term. The students explored their Emmaus scripture focus of "knowing your value" (Matthew 6:25-26).
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
The lesson emphasised that our worth is not determined by material possessions, social status, or external achievements, but by the fact that we are created in God’s image. Year 8 were challenged to reflect on what they truly value in life, encouraging them to recognise and focus on lasting treasures—such as faith, kindness, compassion and belonging—rather than temporary, worldly measures of success and material possessions.
The students were reminded that they are deeply valued and should recognise the worth in themselves and others. Year 8 were encouraged to seek opportunities this year where they can grow themselves and each other, by recognising and valuing their true worth.
It has been fruitful to acknowledge year 8 and their achievements and discussing ways to continue making a positive impact. We look forward to seeing this cohort grow in confidence, leadership, and kindness throughout the year.
Year 9
It’s been a busy time for Year 9 with over 200 merits being issued in the first couple of weeks so congratulations to those students on making a great start to the year. Just a reminder to check your emails, Compass and the Pastoral Google Classroom every morning before the day starts to ensure you don’t miss anything important. Some students have been testing the system wearing their PE uniform all day and not getting changed into their school uniform. Teachers do spot checks and if you get caught you will receive a lunch detention!
Best All Rounder
Congratulations to Sophia Mcpherson on being this week's Best All Rounder winner! Sophia receives a certificate and a $5 canteen voucher. Well done Sophia!
Congratulations to all our Commendation and Distinction award winners thus far and we look forward to recognising your achievements throughout the year.
Student Spotlight - Tazmyn White
Tazmyn was selected into the Wanderers Australia Junior Netball team to play & tour UK & France. She left Australia on New Years Day heading firstly to Japan (as a stopover) visiting Shibuya crossing; busiest & largest pedestrian crossing in the world where a part of Tokyo drift was filmed & Hachiko memorial statue. Then she flew to Heathrow London where the tour group hit the ground running to avoid jet lag. They visited St Paul’s Cathedral, Buckingham Palace, Legoland, Gringott’s bank & Trafalgar square. She then spent the next 13 days playing a total of 10 junior matches against strong county & college teams & club representative teams where they won 8 of these matches. The netball was of a high standard with Tazmyn playing predominantly in GD, some GK & even a game in GA. Tazmyn also had the honour of playing an extra match with the older Wanderers team as well as umpiring one of their games while in London. The teams would play of a night (being billeted out on several occasions with their hosts) & continue touring of a day, seeing sights such as the Natural History Museum, Big Ben, London Bridge, Tower Bridge, Tower of London, Greenwich & Borough markets, visited Shakespeare’s birth home in Statford upon Avon, places like Oxford, & attended a Manchester city premier league football game at Etihad Stadium. They were lucky to encounter a large amount of snowfall while in Cheshire, the largest amount of snow fallen in the past two years, many a snow man was built.
The last three days were spent touring France; The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Luxembourg gardens, La Opera & battlefields from WWI in the Somme region. The final night was an awards ceremony where Tazmyn was named as the Junior Koala teams’ best & fairest silver recipient. A wonderful 20 days abroad was spent with great experiences, friendships formed & memories made.
Next Monday night sees the traditional opportunity to experience the true essence of St John Paul College at our upcoming, Year 7 Belonging Night.
This annual event is designed to foster meaningful relationships, celebrate our diverse community, and strengthen the bonds that unite us. Jon Baldwin and Mikayla Hannaford (Year 7 Leaders of Student Wellbeing) have been working hard to create an evening where everyone can feel at home, connect with other families, and experience the supportive and nurturing environment that defines our College.
Join us for a night of engaging activities, heartfelt conversations, and the opportunity to build lasting connections within our wonderful Year 7 community. We encourage all families to bring along a plate of food to share and to also see firsthand how St John Paul College fosters a sense of belonging for all.
Instead of our traditional formal Parent-Student-Teacher Conference. This evening will provide an opportunity to meet your child’s teachers and have informal conversations about their learning journey.
Rather than a traditional Parent-Student-Teacher Conference, all our Year 7 class teachers will be mingling with families throughout the evening, giving you the chance to meet them over a cuppa or a shared plate of food. This approach will allow for some meaningful conversations without the formality of scheduled appointments.
If you have specific academic concerns or issues that require a more in-depth discussion, follow-up meetings or phone calls can be arranged.
We value your feedback and will be surveying parents after the event to refine and enhance our parent engagement approach. We look forward to seeing you there and getting to know your Year 7 Teachers.
We invite all Year 7 students and their families to come and discover what makes St John Paul College such a special place.
Mark Coster
Leader of Student Engagement
Each year the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is sat by students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. Students will participate in tests for writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.
Testing Schedule
NAPLAN 2025 will take place from Wednesday 12 March to Monday 24 March.
Students in years 7 and 9 will sit the NAPLAN tests following the schedule below:
Wednesday, March 12 – Writing
Thursday, March 13 – Reading
Friday, March 14 – Conventions of Language
Monday, March 17 – Numeracy
NAPLAN is just one part of our College’s learning assessment program. The tests assess literacy and numeracy skills your child is already learning at school, so the best preparation is their everyday classroom learning. Our school will also undertake activities to help students become familiar with the types of questions and tools available in the online tests.
NAPLAN LockDown Browser
All Year 7 & 9 students must have the NAPLAN lockdown browser installed on their devices. Instructions for downloading were sent directly to students. Please ensure your child has successfully installed the software.
Public Demonstration Site
The public demonstration site available for you to see the format of the online tests.
Further Information
Further information about NAPLAN is available on the NESA website and the NAP website.
To ensure the testing goes smoothly it is crucial that all students come to school prepared on the testing days with a fully charged device and headphones.
If you have any questions about NAPLAN, please contact the College.
Jessi Reeves
Leader of Numeracy
Curtain Call: Reflecting on an Incredible Drama Excursion to Sydney
Over three incredible days, our Drama students embarked on an unforgettable journey filled with theatre, creativity, and inspiration. It all began with the spectacular musical Hadestown at the Theatre Royal Sydney, where students were captivated by the stunning visuals, powerful storytelling, and mesmerising music. Meeting the talented cast was the perfect finale to an unforgettable night.
The excitement continued with performances of the HSC Drama plays Fangirls and Neighbourhood Watch, followed by a high-energy musical workshop that sparked creativity and new friendships. Behind-the-scenes tours of the Sydney Theatre Company and Bell Shakespeare provided exclusive insights into the world of professional theatre. The day concluded with the inspiring HSC OnSTAGE showcase at the Seymour Centre, featuring some of the best 2024 HSC Drama performances and projects.
The adventure wrapped up with a scenic ferry ride across Sydney Harbour before a playbuilding workshop at the Australian Theatre for Young People, where students showcased their enthusiasm and creativity through engaging and playful performances. A huge thank you to our dedicated staff Melissa Cotton, Markus Muschall, and Craig Bertwistle for making this experience possible. Finally, a massive round of applause to all the students who attended, representing St John Paul College with creativity, maturity, and flair. Their passion and enthusiasm made this an experience to remember, and we look forward to many more Drama adventures ahead!
Teacher - Drama/English
This week our Senior Music students enjoyed a trip to Sydney Opera House to watch the Encore concert for 2025 - a showcase of the best and most interesting performances from 2024 HSC Music courses. This year was even more amazing as the showcase featured four of our 2024 HSC Music class students performing "The greatest Love of All" led by Bryce Wallace and accompanied by Joss Cowling, Michael Symmonds, and Jack Piontek.
 Bryce Wallace |
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The thousands of viewers erupted in applause and cheering and our SJPC students, teachers and parents were bursting with excitement. A thrilling, safe and inspirational trip. Extra thanks for Mikayla Hannaford and Dan Burbidge for their leadership on the trip.
Leader of Learning - Science
College Swimming Carnival
What a wonderful day for our school community! We had a positive turn-out from students and the weather held nicely so we could enjoy the whole day. Participation was at an all time high in the novelty events and the introduction of a House point swim in the 50m freestyle was a hit. McAuley worked hard to keep their winning run going, aiming for a 4th Championship in a row. Unfortunately, that was not to be with Casey coming in to smash the opposition! The point score is below. Congratulations Casey House!
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Casey House 1st place 1254 |
McAuley House 2nd place 866 |
Hargraves 3rd place 864 |
Kelly House 4th place 703 |
Three records were broken on the day, with the Hargraves 17+ boys relay team comprising of Carlo Eiler (Year 11), Tristan Shih (Year 11), Angus Harris (Year 12) and Mateusz Miazio (Year 12) breaking the 2018 Casey team record by 1 sec. Tristan Shih (Year 11) smashed the 17+ 200m IM record set in 2002 while Coco Becker (Year 8 ) broke the 13 years 50m Butterfly record that was set in 2001! Congratulations to all these amazing swimmers!
Swimming Age Champions
Congratulations to the following swimmers who displayed individual excellence during the carnival to take out the Age Champion awards.
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12 years |
12 years |
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13 years |
13 years |
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14 years |
14 years |
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15 years |
15 years |
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16 years |
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17+ years |
17+ years |
Congratulations
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent the Diocese at CCC level or CCC at NSW All Schools.
NSW All Schools Golf - Ashton Herbert (Year 12).
CCC Tennis Trials - Madison Jones (Year 12), Noah Baylis (Year 10), Oakley Baylis (Year 8) - Tennis.
Diocesan Open Boys Football Team - Dominic Omtha (Year 11), Anthony Omtha (Year 12), Taylor Clark (Year 10) and Lachlan Montgomery (Year 12).
Diocesan Open Girls Football Team - Lauren Harris (Year 11), Evie Gibson (Year 10), Pippa Dodd (Year 8), Eva Corsalini (Year 8).
Coming Up - Term 1 2025
2025 |
| Tuesday 4 March |
Diocesan Touch Individual Trials, Toormina |
| Thursday 6 March |
Diocesan Swimming Championships, Lismore |
| Thursday 13 March |
Diocesan Open Basketball Championships, Coffs Harbour |
| Wednesday 26 March |
NSW Netball Schools Cup Rd 1, Coffs |
| Wednesday 2 April |
AFL Senior Schools Cup, Coffs |
| Friday 4 April |
Diocesan Netball Individual Trials, Coffs |
| Wednesday 9 April |
SJPC Cross Country |
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Thursday 10 April *moved to 12 June |
Diocesan (South) Open Football, Coffs |
* events require students to sign up directly on the Diocesan Sport website
Leader of Sport
LITERACY MATTERS
ALL THINGS LITERACY, BECAUSE LITERACY MATTERS IN ALL THINGS
Word Consciousness
Word Consciousness refers to ‘awareness and interest in words and their meaning’ Graves & Watts-Taffe, 2008. Teachers and family members who share their love for words (logophilia) and who provide engaging opportunities for children to interact with words both in conversation, reading, writing and research and creative opportunities, help to ignite this passion for words. It is a very effective way to motivate students to read and continue to build vocabulary and embrace the gift of words.
‘Vocabulary is more than words. It is knowledge. To know a word’s meaning is to know what that word represents and to begin to understand the network of concepts that go with it.’ Neuman and Darger 2009
Playing word games in the home invites children to become animated and motivated learners and can help struggling readers. Shared curiosity about words, word origins and word history, poetry, puns, proverbs and idioms and exposure to a variety of reading materials in the home can engage children in a thirst for new, rich vocabulary and a journey toward word consciousness. Vocabulary knowledge is one of the best predictors of reading achievement.
Word of the Week
Week 4
Timorously(adv) In a shy and nervous manner.
He spoke timorously at the meeting.
Week 5
Subrident (adj) - smiling slightly or showing a faint smile
She had a subrident expression during the conversation.
Mrs Maree McKelvie
Literacy Coach
Finance
2025 Annual Tuition Fee and Foundation Levy Billing Notice
Tuition Fees:
Your 2025 School Fee Statement was issued this week. It includes your annual tuition fees, levies and any balances carried forward from last year.
This statement also confirms your chosen payment plan and scheduled due dates gathered in a survey in Term 4, 2024. If you missed the survey, or no payment preference was indicated we have set your plan to quarterly payments as the default option. If you wish to make a change to the payment plan, please email cofhs-finance@lism.catholic.edu.au or cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au, thank you.
Please note, the statement does not include fees for elective subjects - these will be billed separately in Term 2, 2025. Payments for events and excursions that are not part of annual fees will continue to be processed through the Compass app.
First Instalment due – 01.03.25
How to pay
Bpay:
Preferred payment method is by BPay and your BPay reference number is shown on your Statement.
Please set up your nominated instalments in BPay as a recurring payment with your banking institution.
Compass:
To view your balance and make a payment online please log in to the Compass Parent Portal.
If you have any questions, please email cofhs-finance@lism.catholic.edu.au or cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au, or phone 6653 3155 (St John Paul College) / 6653 1655 (DLCS Regional Fee Support Team)
2024 Yearbook
For families who have not received their 2024 Yearbook, please remind your child to collect from the College Office. One yearbook per family.
School Buses
Bus timetables
Busways is the school bus operator that runs your school's bus services. To find your child’s school bus timetable visit the Busways website by using the following steps:
- 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.
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.
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 - 9:30am
Homework Centre
Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:20pm - 5:00pm
You can now provide online consent for your child's routine school vaccinations.
In Year 7 and 10 students are offered free vaccines for diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa) and human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccination will only be provided at School if consent has been received.
Term 1 - Year 7 Vaccinations - Friday, 28 March 2025
Save the date: Term 2 - Year 10 Vaccinations - Tuesday, 17 June 2025
How to provide consent:
1. To complete online consent for your child’s school vaccinations, visit: https://nswhealth.
2. Click the login with ‘Service NSW Account’ button and log in using your Service NSW details. This is the same account you may already use to renew your driver’s license. If you don’t have a Service NSW account, refer to Service NSW to create one.
3. Update or confirm your personal details in Service NSW as required.
4. Complete the School Vaccination Consent Form for your child. You will need to:
a) Enter your child’s personal details
b) Provide the Medicare card details for you and your child
c) Read the linked Parent Information Sheet and Privacy Statement
d) Provide consent
If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper-based consent form directly from the College Office.
For more information on routine school vaccinations, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/
Translated information about school vaccination is available in 27 languages, please visit
www.health.nsw.gov.au/
You are warmly invited to attend the first SJPC Parent Representative Body meeting for 2025. This meeting will be hosted in the College Library and via zoom. Please click on the link to RSVP. A zoom link will be sent on Monday 3 March 2025.
Topics:
- Parenting Teens - We'll share some of the key points from Maggie Dent's book "Help Me Help My Teen"
- Girls Sports Shorts
- 2025 Goals
- Student Engagement
- Q&A - click on the link to write your questions to be answered on the night
For parents who attend the meeting in person at SJPC will receive a copy of Maggie Dent's book "Help Me Help My Teen!"