24 October 2025 - Newsletter (Vol 42 No 16)
- Principal's Message
- Urgent Action Required: Help Us Get a Safe Crossing on Hogbin Drive!
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- School Evangelisation
- Wellbeing Matters
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- SJPC Merit Award Recipients
- Languages
- Visual Arts
- Literacy Coach
- Sports Corner
- St Augustine's Parish Luncheon
- SJPC Support Dog - Dolly
- Library Matters
- What's On!
- Office News
- Youth Led Pilgrimage
- Family Connect in Schools
- The Vinnies Van
- Blood Donation
- School Reunion - Class of 2015
- All One Under the Sun Festival
- Life Without Barriers
- St Francis Xavier School Community Fete
Leadership
It is always a time of excitement for both the staff and students as those who have been elected are announced to the community. The College Captains were inducted at the Graduation ceremony at the end of Term 3, while the SRC and House Captains received their badges at the Student Leadership induction assembly last week.
Student voice is very important in any successful school and as a college we continue to find legitimate and genuine opportunities for student voice to have an impact and influence. It is vital that students are afforded the opportunity to contribute to the workings of the very place they spend most of their time. They must feel comfortable in making suggestions for the greater good and feel that at the very least, due consideration is given to their ideas.
In John’s gospel we are reminded of the importance of servant leadership and that no matter the position, the essence of leading is to serve those same people who you lead.
John (13: 2-6; 12-17)
Jesus and His disciples were at Supper. Jesus knew that the Father had given Him complete power; He knew that He had come from God and was going to God. So he rose from the table, took off his outer garment, and tied a towel around his waist. Then he poured some water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and dry them with the towel around his waist.
After Jesus had washed their feet, he put his outer garment back on, and returned to his place at the table. ‘Do you understand what I have just done for you?’ he asked. ‘You call me Teacher and Lord, and it is right that you do so, because that is what I am. I, your Lord and Teacher have just washed your feet.
You, then, should wash one another’s feet. I have set an example for you, so that you will do just what I have done for you. I am telling you the truth: no slave is greater than his master, and no messenger is greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know this truth, how happy you will be if you put it into practice!’
God Bless
Michael Carniato
Principal
Urgent Action Required: Help Us Get a Safe Crossing on Hogbin Drive!
Cyclists & Walkers: Sign Up to Demand a Safe Hogbin Drive Crossing!
We need your help immediately to push the Coffs Harbour City Council to install a safe pedestrian crossing over Hogbin Drive in front of St John Paul College.
With over 1,100 students, our school is on a major, increasingly busy arterial road. Hundreds of students walking or cycling to school must cross Hogbin Drive during the most congested and dangerous times of the day. Even with a reduced speed limit, the sheer volume of traffic makes crossing a near-impossible, life-threatening gamble. I am gravely concerned that it is only a matter of time before a serious injury or fatality occurs.
I have submitted a detailed letter to the Council as part of the Draft Active Transport Plan advocating for a dedicated zebra crossing with safety barriers, a pedestrian overpass, or a tunnel.
Your voice is crucial. Please click here to have your say before Tuesday, 11 November 2025.God Bless
Michael Carniato
Principal
The Gift of Prayer
In the Gospel last Sunday, Jesus reminds us of the importance of prayer - to “pray continually and never lose heart.” (Luke 18:1-8) Like the persistent widow, we are invited to bring our hopes, struggles, and gratitude to God with trust and perseverance.
Over the past few months, I’ve been intentionally working on my own prayer life through the Ignatian First Spiritual Exercises. This has been a powerful journey of noticing where God is present in my everyday life - not just in moments of formal prayer, but in conversations, challenges, and quiet pauses throughout the day.
A key part of this practice is the Daily Examen, and I’d love to invite you to give it a try. It’s a simple reflection at the end of the day that helps you notice where God has been present.
Begin by taking a few deep breaths and becoming aware of God’s presence. As you breathe in, pray silently, “You are here.” As you breathe out, pray, “And I am with You.”
Then, move through these five gentle steps:
- Ask God for light - to see your day as God sees it.
- Give thanks - for the blessings and moments of grace.
- Review the day - when did you feel close to God? When was it hard?
- Ask forgiveness - for where you fell short or turned away.
- Look ahead - entrust tomorrow to God with hope.
This ten-minute reflection has helped me see God’s hand in the ordinary - in a student’s kindness, a colleague’s support, or even a difficult decision. It reminds me that prayer isn’t just about words; it’s about awareness and relationship.
If prayer feels hard to fit in, start small: a quiet moment in the morning, a short “thank you” at lunchtime, or an Examen before bed. What matters is not the length of time, but the openness of heart.
May we, as a school community, be people who “pray always and never lose heart,” trusting that God listens and walks with us in every moment.
Assistant Principal - Mission
Welcome back to Term 4 and I trust you had a chance to have some family time and rest over the spring break. In the last week of Term 3 we saw our 2025 Year 12 students graduate in a wonderful celebration of their time at the College. We wish them well during their exam period and remind them they have prepared as best as they could and to take care of themselves at this time.
It’s difficult to believe that we are nearly at the end of another year. It’s also a great opportunity to embrace what is ahead and finish the year strongly.
The following are some suggestions of how to help our young people have a positive start to the term:
- Establish a positive mindset: Encourage optimism by discussing new opportunities and help your child set clear, achievable goals for the term.
- Create structured routines: Gradually reintroduce consistent schedules, especially for sleep, to help the body clock adapt. Develop clear morning and evening routines to reduce stress.
- Set academic goals: Help students set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals and break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
- Prepare physically: Ensure all necessary items like uniforms, stationery, etc. Ensure that uniforms are in accordance with the College uniform policy, including jewellery, makeup and hairstyles.
- Focus on wellbeing: Encourage healthy habits like nutritious meals, exercise, rest and managing stress. A good diet, in particular, improves energy levels, mood, and concentration.
It is also very important that all communication lines are kept open in an attempt to allow our students to have the very best Term 4 experience.
HSC Written Exams 2025
Our Year 12 students have begun their HSC written exams with an impressive sense of focus and maturity. The NESA Returning Officer, commenting to me earlier this week, commended the cohort for their calm approach and professional attitude in the exam environment. Their preparation, commitment, and mutual support have been outstanding, reflecting the strong learning culture developed over the past year.
What I have noticed is that our Year 12 teachers have been eager to encourage our students as they enter their exams and often beat me to greet their students as they come out of their exams to discuss how they went.
Our staff are incredibly proud of their efforts and the positive tone they have set for our senior students of the future. We wish all our Year 12s continued success as they complete their remaining exams.
Year 11s Starting their HSC Journey
As Year 11 students begin their HSC courses this term, it’s essential they establish strong study habits and consistent routines now—not later in the year. Developing focus, organisation, and balance early will set the foundation for success and reduce pressure as assessments and exams approach.
I have been lucky enough to address this cohort twice this term and I expressed my desire for them to focus on the next 10 weeks and how they will prepare for assessments beginning in Week 6; and the need to have a solid foundation of study habits and preparedness.
Study Skills
Visit www.studyskillshandbook.com.au to learn more about how you can create sound study habits for the beginning of the HSC journey:
School’s Username – stjohnpaul
School’s password – 89success
AMDG
Acting Principal
Feast Day Mass for St John Paul II – A Celebration of Faith and Identity
On Wednesday, 22nd October, the St John Paul College community gathered to celebrate a very special occasion – the Feast Day of our patron saint, St John Paul II. This Mass holds deep significance for our College, as we honour the life, faith, and enduring legacy of a saint whose name we proudly bear.
St John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła in Poland, served as Pope from 1978 to 2005 and was canonised a saint in 2014. He was known for his strong advocacy for young people, peace, and the dignity of every human life. His legacy continues to inspire millions around the world – especially in schools like ours that seek to live out his call to “be not afraid” and to follow Christ boldly and joyfully.
This year’s Feast Day was made even more special by the official launch of our College’s new Praise and Worship band. The talented group of students led the school community in vibrant and spirit-filled music during the Mass, setting a beautiful tone of praise and unity. Their leadership in music ministry added a new dimension to our celebration and marked an exciting chapter in the spiritual life of our College.
Celebrating our patron saint is more than a tradition – it is a reminder of the values that shape our identity as a Catholic school: faith, service, courage, and love. St John Paul II continues to be a powerful role model for our students as they grow in faith and seek to make a difference in the world.
We thank all staff and students involved in the preparation and celebration of the Mass, particularly Fr Joe, the Ministry team, and our new Worship band. May St John Paul II continue to guide and bless our College community.
St John Paul II, pray for us.
Leader of School Evangelisation
Engaging with Goals: Years 7-10 Pastoral Session
Last Wednesday, students in Years 7 to 10 took part in a highly valuable pastoral session focused on the engagement continuum and personal goal setting. This session is a cornerstone of our commitment to helping students understand and take ownership of their learning journey.
Reflecting and Re-evaluating
During the session, students revisited the individual learning goals they set back in Term Two. This reflective step is crucial for understanding progress. They were asked to consider: Did I achieve my goal? What helped me, and what were the obstacles? This honest self-assessment provides the foundation for future success.
The Power of Setting New Goals
The main focus of the session was the process of setting new, meaningful goals. Students explored how to move along the engagement continuum—from simply complying to becoming truly committed and self-regulated learners. They analysed the steps required to set a goal that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
A key takeaway for students was understanding that a goal isn't just a wish; it's a process. They learned to identify the small, actionable steps and necessary resources needed to better meet their individual learning needs in the classroom. This could involve developing better study habits, seeking specific feedback from teachers, or dedicating more time to challenging subjects.
A Valuable Life Skill
This process equips students with the ability to clearly define what they need to improve upon to achieve their best outcomes, fostering self-awareness, resilience, and personal accountability.
We encourage you to discuss these new goals with your child and support them in implementing the strategies they have developed. This partnership between home and school is vital for ensuring every student can reach their full potential.
Mark Coster
Leader of Student Engagement
Year 8
Year 8 have returned energised and enthusiastic for Term 4. It has been wonderful to see students reconnecting and sharing stories from their holiday break with one another.
I’d like to warmly welcome Mr Matthew Quinton, who has joined our team as the Assistant Leader of Student Wellbeing for the next 12 months. Matthew brings a wealth of pastoral experience to this role, and we look forward to his contributions and support of our Year 8 cohort during this time.
Last Wednesday, we also acknowledged our newly appointed Student Leaders for 2026. We recognise and congratulate Ekamdeep Kaur, Leila Perdicaro, Justine Vana Bataclan and Archie Walker on this wonderful achievement. We look forward to seeing their leadership and positive influence as they guide their peers over the next 12 months.
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Looking ahead, Term 4 is shaping up to be a meaningful and engaging one for our Year 8 students. Throughout the term, students will take part in four pastoral lessons focused on our College theme of Resilience. Resilience is the ability to recover from or adapt to challenges, demonstrating emotional strength and a healthy response to change. These lessons will help students explore what it means to be resilient and how they can continue to grow in this important aspect of their personal development.
In Week 5, Year 8 will participate in the “ Make Bulling History” program. This evidence informed program shares real life stories of how individuals and school communities can overcome bullying.
In Week 8, we will celebrate the end of the school year with our Year 8 trip to Wet’n’Wild on the Gold Coast. Details for this event are available on Compass, and consent and payment are due by Wednesday, 12 November.
I’m genuinely excited about the term ahead and the many opportunities to continue working with you to support and guide your children as they prepare for their transition into Year 9 in 2026.
Matt Currie & Matthew Quinton
Year 8 Leaders of Student Wellbeing
Year 9
Welcome back to Term 4! This term is all about bringing everything together, consolidating your knowledge, and getting ready for the next chapter.
We're thrilled to announce and congratulate several outstanding students who have been honored with College Commendation Awards for their remarkable academic achievements, dedication, and contributions to the college community. These awards recognise students who have gone above and beyond, setting a high standard for their peers.
Congratulations to Our Award Recipients
Please join us in celebrating the hard work and success of the following individuals:
| College Commendation Awards |
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Each of these students have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to excellence in their studies and various college endeavours. Their achievements are a source of great pride for their families, faculty, and the entire institution.
Our Best All rounder for this week is Kristen Hansen so well done on a fine achievement!
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The key to a successful Term 4 is balance and planning. Don't let the end-of-year rush catch you off guard.
- Plan Ahead: Look at your subject outlines and create a study timetable. Know when your major due dates and final assessments are. Breaking down big tasks into smaller, manageable chunks will help you from feeling overwhelmed.
- Use Your Teachers: Your teachers are your biggest resource. If you're confused about a topic, unsure about an assignment, or just need a little extra help, ask! The sooner you seek help, the better prepared you'll be.
- Prioritise Wellbeing: With all the activity, it's easy to burn out. Make time for the things you enjoy—whether it's sport, music, seeing friends, or just relaxing. A fresh mind learns better than a tired one.
- Finish Strong: This is your last chance to lift your results for the year. Commit to putting in your best effort right up until the last day. The foundation you build in Year 9 will make Year 10 so much easier.
Let's make this final term your most successful one yet.
Year 10
Finishing Strong and Building Resilience
Welcome back to the final, crucial term of Year 10. The year has flown by, and now is the time for every student to commit to finishing strong, not just academically, but as members of our school community.
For Year 10 students, maintaining a sharp focus over this final term is paramount. These assessments don't just contribute to this semester's results; they are vital practice for what awaits them in the senior years or the vocation they choose to pursue.
This term, we are asking all students to:
- Prioritise Attendance: Every lesson counts. Missing even one class at this stage can mean missing crucial revision or instructions for final tasks.
- Commit to Revision: Start planning revision for final exams and submitting high-quality work for all assignments. Use the time in class wisely.
- Display Respect: Show courtesy to all teachers and staff, and maintain a respectful learning environment for all peers.
- Wear the correct school uniform each day.
These ideas tie directly into this term's pastoral theme of resilience. In Week 1, we discussed with the students what resilience means: the ability to bounce back from challenges, setbacks, and disappointments.
Resilience is not just about individual strength; it’s also about the strength of the community. We discussed how we can build our own resilience by:
- Taking responsibility: for our learning and actions.
- Practicing self-care: sleep, exercise, and balance.
- Developing a growth mindset: seeing mistakes as opportunities to learn.
Equally important is how we support the resilience of our peers. We encouraged students to be active, supportive members of the year group, reaching out to those who might be struggling and ensuring our year group is a place of genuine connection and kindness.
Our Gospel Theme: Who is the Greatest?
This focus on resilience and support directly connects to our Year Group Gospel Theme from Mark 9:33-37. In this passage, Jesus asks his disciples what they were arguing about on the road, and they were silent because they had been debating "who was the greatest."
Jesus then sits down and says: "If anyone wants to be first, they must be the very last, and the servant of all." (Mark 9:35)
This message reminds our Year 10 students that true strength, leadership, and greatness in our community come not from seeking power or status, but from humble service and support for others. As we enter the home stretch, please reinforce these key messages with your child. We thank you for your support as we work together to ensure a successful and respectful finish to Year 10.
Year 11
A big thank you to all the parents and families who joined us for the recent Year 11 into Year 12 Information Night. The evening was a fantastic opportunity to prepare for the important year ahead, offering valuable insights and support for our students as they embark on their final chapter at St John Paul College.
Hosted wonderfully by our College Student Leaders, the night began with a beautiful musical performance from talented Year 11 students, Kayla and Charena.
Expert Guidance for the Journey
We were privileged to hear from a range of speakers who shared their expertise on navigating the challenges and opportunities of the HSC year.
Tony Abbotts, Leader of Student Wellbeing for the year group, opened with a passionate address on the profound value of education and the significant, yet rewarding, challenge our students are about to undertake. It was clear to see that this group is in good hands for the year to come.
A very welcome addition to the evening was Senior Constable Phillip Geurs, a local Youth Engagement Officer. It was fantastic to see him mingling so openly and chatting with students and families before the formal presentations began. He then delivered a frank talk on safety and responsibility, focusing on policing issues affecting young people, with a strong emphasis on road safety risks like speeding and mobile phone use.
Academic, Career, and Personal Support
Parents then received an overview of the academic landscape from Claudia Brown, who demystified all things HSC and NESA. She outlined what lies ahead for the cohort and detailed the various avenues for academic help available at the college.
Looking beyond graduation, Careers Advisor Paul Corsalini provided a look at TAFE and university pathways, assuring families of the extensive support the college offers to help students make informed decisions and what things have been put in place to assist with these big decisions.
Finally, College Counsellor Brad Poidevin addressed the critical topic of wellbeing, offering practical strategies for managing the stress of the HSC and balancing personal situations to help students achieve their best.
To cap off a wonderful evening, each family left with a small gift pack to help them ‘cope’ with the year ahead. It included items such as a paperclip, to help hold it all together; a stress ball, to absorb their concerns; and a mint, to be an 'encourage-mint' for the year ahead among other things.
Thank you again to our wonderful speakers and families for making the night a great success. We are committed to supporting the Class of 2026 every step of the way.
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. Congratulations students.
Week 1
Week 2
In the September holidays, 22 students and 3 staff enjoyed a 14-day tour of Japan including visits to Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Osaka. This year, the students were also able to experience Japanese school life up close, spending 4 days at our sister school, Reitaku Mizunami, in Gifu prefecture.
In Tokyo, students were able to enjoy Disneyland and Teamlab Planets as well as visit famous areas including Asakusa, Odaiba, Shibuya and Harajuku. Hiroshima’s highlights included a visit to Miyajima Island where we saw the famous torii gate in the water, made momiji manju treats and pat some deer. The group also visited the Peace Park and Museum and were reminded of the importance of peace in the world. In Kyoto we were given a real taste of Japan’s traditions and history as we participated in a tea ceremony with a Maiko and saw various temples and shrines including Kinkakuji (golden temple), Kiyomizudera and Nijo Castle.
While at our sister school the highlight was the “undoukai” – Sports Carnival. Our students had a blast taking part in different sports such as tug-o-war, skipping, the centipede race and more. SJPC was also the winner of the Junior High school section for the ball-toss game, throwing more than 40 balls into a net in the allotted time.
Here is what some of the students thought of their trip:
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My favourite part was spending four days at our sister school. Everyone was so friendly. I made many new friends and became close with the girls in my dorm. The best experience I had was participating in their school athletics carnival. It was great to see the differences in how our school hosts the carnival compared to how they do it. Spending time at the school was so fun, I didn't want to leave. |
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The Japan trip was such an amazing experience. I created so many memories and friendships with everyone and I learned so much about Japanese culture, explored beautiful temples, shrines and famous places. I’m so grateful that I got to experience Japan with my favourite people; this was a trip I’ll never forget. |
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Going to Japan was a great opportunity to advance my Japanese skills. The best experience I had was meeting new people both from SJPC and Reitaku. My hardest experience from this trip was trying to communicate to the other Japanese students using my Japanese skills. The relationships and memories made from this trip are ones that I’ll hold onto for my entire life. |
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Going to Japan was a really cool experience as someone who selected Japanese as an elective. I met a heap of nice people at our sister school and got to see Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Dontonbori in Osaka. It was such a fun trip, I got to practise my Japanese language skills, hang out with amazing people as well as meeting new people and seeing things I’ll never forget. |
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This trip was so much fun. I made so many memories with old and new friends that I will never forget! |
Last semester, Year 11 Visual Arts students undertook a deep investigation into Modernism, a revolutionary art movement spanning the late 1800s to the mid-1950s. In doing so, the students explored the era's revolutionary spirit through practice, culminating in a single, large-scale modernist painting which appropriated and recontextualized fragments from three different, iconic Modernist masterpieces, to create a new image. To ensure cohesion, students had to emulate the painting style and technique of their chosen original artists, resulting in vibrant and engaging works of art.
LITERACY MATTERS
ALL THINGS LITERACY, BECAUSE LITERACY MATTERS IN ALL THINGS
Words matter in the most fundamental ways
When we shift our focus from external outcomes to the internal process, writing our words down can be a powerful and transformative process.
Know the purpose of your writing
While most of our academic writing is for an audience and an outcome, expressive writing is primarily for the writer. It’s an opportunity to focus on the benefit of the writing process rather than the product AND we can pursue this process for our own fulfillment, whenever we like.
Focus on the process, not the product
The consistent daily practice of putting thoughts on paper, even for just five to twenty minutes a day, can yield significant physical and mental health benefits. We learn to understand ourselves more deeply, helping us make better life choices. Additionally, contextualising life’s setbacks and daily challenges helps relieve anxiety and curb depression. It helps us create new neural pathways toward better habits and a more intentional life.
The benefits of the process
Expressive writing has no judgement and is not bound by accuracy requirements, helping us to dismantle self-limiting beliefs. Everyone is a writer and the story of each life is immensely valuable. Expressive writing allows us to tell our own story to ourselves on our terms - this is a powerful step toward living a more confident, balanced and empowered life.
TRY IT!
GET YOURSELF A CLEAN PAGE AND PAINT IT WITH WORDS OF YOUR CHOICE.
IT’S THERAPEUTIC
Word of the Week
Week 1
Magnanimous - adj
generous or forgiving, especially to a rival.
He is humble in victory and magnanimous in defeat.
Week 2
Quotidian - adj
everyday, ordinary.
‘She found beauty in the most quotidian moments.’
‘He longed for the quotidian rituals, like shopping and cups of tea, that the end of the war would bring.’
Literacy Coach
NSWCCC 9/10 Boys Basketball
The 9/10 Boys Basketball Team competed in the NSWCCC Intermediate Boys Championships and competed strongly to continue their basketball development. After some agonisingly close losses on Tuesday, the team went two from two wins on Wednesday against Casimir Catholic College, Marrickville as well as MacKillop College, Port Macquarie. Well done boys! Thanks to super coach John Philip and Josh Portelli for accompanying the team to Sydney.
SJPC Squash Teams Shine at North Coast Schools Tournament
St John Paul College was proudly represented at the recent North Coast Schools Squash Tournament last week, with five teams showcasing their talent, determination, and outstanding sportsmanship.
Huge congratulations are in order for our Under 15s Division 2 team, who played exceptionally well throughout the day and were crowned champions of their division! Their hard work and focus paid off, resulting in a well-deserved victory.
In the highly competitive Open Boys Division 1, our two teams demonstrated incredible skill and resilience against tough opposition. Their efforts saw them secure both second and fourth place, a fantastic achievement in the top division.
We also had two girls' teams compete in the Division 3 Girls competition. For many of these players, it was their first time participating in a tournament. They embraced the challenge with wonderful enthusiasm and a positive attitude, finishing in third and fourth place. Most importantly, they had a great time and learned a lot.
Across the board, all our players represented the College with pride. They played fair, supported each other, and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Well done to everyone involved!
Year 8 Ocean Safety Surfer Award (OSSA)
Year 8 students will have the opportunity to complete their OSSA (Ocean Safety Surfer Award) at the end of this Term. Students who wish to complete this course MUST meet the criteria. You must be competent in the surf, be able to swim 200m in under 5 minutes and submit a signed declaration that you can do this, and have completed the theory component of the course. Some students completed the Theory component at the start of the year. The theory must be completed before signing up for the mission. The mission will be run by the Coffs City Council lifeguards on Tuesday, 9 December. This is a full-day event, and the lifeguards will teach students many aspects of surf safety before completing the mission. It is a requirement to participate in water activities in Year 9 and 10 that you have completed your OSSA. Students can access the theory form and sign up for the mission on the Sport Google Classroom. The nomination form to participate in this event must be completed by 7 November. Any questions, please see Mrs Slaviero in the Palace.
Coming Up
Term 4, 2025 |
| Thursday 6 November | Open Boys & Girls Water Polo, Alstonville |
| Monday 10 November |
Southern Diocesan Golf Championships, SWR |
| Thursday 13 November | 15’s Boys & Girls Water Polo, Alstonville |
| Tuesday 25 November | 3 x 3 Basketball, Coffs Harbour |
| Wednesday 26 November | Girls League Tag, Coffs Harbour |
| Friday 28 November | Netball State Finals, Sydney |
* events require students to sign up directly on the Diocesan Sport website
Acting Leader of Sport
Student Leaders Build Bridges at St Augustine's Parish Luncheon
We are delighted to share a highlight of our newly elected Year 12 Student Council Representatives for 2025-2026, Ziggy Munokoa and Mia Armytage, who recently demonstrated their commitment to community engagement. On Wednesday, 15 October, Ziggy and Mia attended the St Augustine's Parish Luncheon, an excellent opportunity for our student leaders to contribute to building community, fostering fellowship, and supporting vibrant parish life.
Ziggy and Mia truly embraced the spirit of service by taking the time to serve the attendees before sitting down to share a delicious meal. They appreciated the insightful and warm conversations with parishioners, strengthening the vital bond between the school and the wider parish community. These interactions are invaluable for helping our students develop a deeper appreciation for the role of community support.
Due to the Kindergarten students' recent return from the holidays and the importance of establishing their classroom routines during this initial settling period, they were unable to attend the luncheon. As proud St Augustine's Primary School alumni, Ziggy and Mia showed their dedication to the younger members of our community by making a special visit to their classroom. Their impromptu 'hello' and words of encouragement were a wonderful way to inspire the young learners, reminding them of the potential that lies ahead and the continuous connection within the St Augustine's family. We applaud Ziggy and Mia for their excellent representation and initiative!
Ngahine Munokoa
Support Dog Questionnaire
Bringing a support dog to our college campus will be a wonderful opportunity to promote well-being and provide assistance to students who need it. However, to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone in our community, we need to gather some essential information before bringing Dolly into the school in the coming weeks.
A brief survey was sent out to all parents and carers last week to complete on behalf of each student, to provide details on:
- Allergies: We need to know about any allergies to dogs, from low-level reactions to severe anaphylaxis risk.
- Fear or Phobia: Let us know if you have a fear or phobia of dogs, or a past trauma related to dogs.
- Cultural or Religious Considerations: We want to be mindful of any cultural or religious beliefs that may limit contact with dogs.
- No issues with dogs: We can tick you off as being okay.
Your feedback is crucial for making an informed decision about this program and managing concerns. Please click here to complete the survey.
Leader of Learning Technologies
Applications are now open for 2026 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel
Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2026.
Students progressing from Year 2 to Year 3 and from Year 6 to Year 7 need to re-apply.
Where a student meets the new distance eligibility, the system will automatically update their entitlement. If they do not meet the new distance requirements, they will receive an expiry notification.
Students who change address, school, campus location, have repeated a year or received an expiry notification for their school travel entitlement need to renew or update their details before the end of term 4. This will ensure that schools can endorse applications before the end of the year, so students travel entitlement can remain valid for the start of the 2026 school year.
Students who have an entitlement approved under a medical condition that is due to expire will receive a notification advising them to re-apply.
Term Bus Pass holders will receive a notification to re-apply.
Rural and Regional Students
Students living in rural and regional (R&R) areas should receive their travel pass at the start of the new school year from their nominated transport operator. It may come via the school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some R&R operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
Senior Secondary Student Concession Entitlement Card
Delivery of the Senior Secondary Student Concession Entitlement Card will be paused from Friday, 12 December 2025 and will recommence from 27 January 2026 (inclusive).
Applications will need to be submitted by 5 December 2025 to ensure cards are delivered by or prior to 12 December 2025.
SJPC Virtual Tour
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
Finance
If you have any questions or require further information, please email:
cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au
Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools
cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au
Ph: 6653 1655 Office Hours: 8:30am to 4:00pm
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
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 student who receives a concussion or 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.
The Coffs Harbour Vinnies Van has been named as one of 3 finalists in the Toormina Gardens Kickstart Grant promotion.
Voting is now Open!
The organisation with the most votes will win and we need your vote!
This information has been posted on the Vinnies facebook page and if you haven’t already, please like and share our page.
How to Vote:
Visit the Toormina Gardens' website and click on the voting page- :
Vote for Our Community Kickstart Recipient & Win! - Toormina Gardens
Learn more about each finalist, and cast your vote. Voting is also available in Toormina Gardens, shopping centre via a QR CODE displayed on the Kickstart posters.
Voting closes Sunday, 9 November.
To encourage participation, everyone who votes will go in the running to win a $1,000 Gift Card.
Leanne Gennat and Brett Bujeya
SJPC Vinnies Conference
Life Without Barriers is a not for profit, non-government organisation supporting children in Out of Home Care experience a family-based environment. We are looking for anyone willing to open their homes and lives to our amazing children. Fostering can come in many forms and can provide a safe space for a child for a couple of nights, a weekend each month or long term.
Grant Meredith
Area Manager
Family Based Care – North Coast NSW
St Francis Xavier Primary School is holding a Fete on Saturday 25 October from 12pm - 4pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy an afternoon of fun rides, food trucks, great stalls, and entertainment.
We would like to invite any past SFX students who are interested in volunteering for an hour on the day to run the Crazy Hair, Facepaint and Tattoo Stall to fill out this Google Form.