31 July 2020 - Newsletter (Vol 37 No 12)
‘10 Lessons I want to instill in my kids’
In the last few months I have read a lot of entries in various forums which talk about how to raise children, advice on what to do and what not to do and so on. It is interesting to see just how varied the advice and opinions are from a tight grip to an almost let them be attitude. One entry in particular caught my attention and had me asking, is this what I’d like to see in a graduate from SJPC? - YES! YES! YES! was my reaction.
If you made a mistake, apologise.
If you’re thankful, show it.
If you’re confused, ask questions.
If you learn something, teach others.
If you’re stuck, ask for help.
If you’re wrong, fess up.
If you love someone, tell them.
If you trip, get back up.
If someone needs help, help them.
If you see wrong, take a stance.
Taken from ‘Raising Teens Today’ – Facebook
After all is said and done, we want our children to be well rounded individuals who we can all be proud of. Too often, it has been my experience that some of our children don’t necessarily tick all the boxes above and it is our job as parents and teachers together to ensure we cover them.
I want to say thank you to all the families who continue to support the College in ensuring their child follows the rules and expectations set down in our code of conduct, from wearing the correct uniform every day through to meeting all obligations around teaching and learning, it is vital that we deliver the same message.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAYS 2020
Due to the lockdown at the end of Term 1 and beginning of Term 2, we have had to adjust these days. Please add the new dates to your planning calendars.
Term 3 - Friday 7th August – Staff Spirituality and Literacy Policy implementation.
Term 3 - Friday 25th September – Staff Spirituality and Teaching and Learning Focus
Term 4 - Monday 12th October – Literacy and Teaching and Learning Focus
Term 4 - Friday 13th November – Staff Spirituality and Teaching and Learning Focus.
COLLEGE CANCELLATIONS
Due to Covid-19 restrictions the following Term 3 Week 4 events have been cancelled:
- Student Social
- Parent & Family meeting
PRINCIPAL APPRAISAL – 17th September
Every five years, Principals undergo an appraisal as part of our contract of employment. Can I please draw your attention to the following letter outlining the process and encourage you to be involved.
God bless
Michael Carniato
Principal
Welcome back to what we all hope will be a more normal term than the past, but who knows? At SJPC I can assure parents we are continually changing and evolving to be ready for whatever the future may throw our way.
Over the next two weeks members of the College community will be completing the Diocese of Lismore School Improvement Survey (DOLSIS). Many thanks to the parents, who were randomly selected, to complete and return the survey. Your time is very much appreciated and help contribute to the various improvements we see around the school.
At last week’s College Assembly, Mr Furey and I discussed the importance of the College uniform and how it is worn. A summary of the presentation is below with much of the information coming from “What are good reasons for wearing uniforms?”:
- School uniforms promote learning. Just like a switch turns the light on, the College uniform lets the brain know it is ‘go time’ and performance is encouraged. Students can concentrate on what to learn not what they should wear.
- School uniforms nourish a sense of equality. To some extent, uniforms avoids ‘the have and the have not’ theory.
- School uniforms promote a sense of community. Each and every SJPC student should be proud of their school. Wearing their uniform well displays this fact.
- School uniforms make it easy to get ready for school.
- School uniforms improve safety around the school. Whether it be in the kitchen, wood tech room or science lab, a well-worn uniform promotes safety.
- School uniforms do not eliminate individuality. Individuality is witnessed every day in the different personality characteristics students put on show.
- School uniforms are durable and cost effective. The College Uniform shop operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 7:30am and 9:00am staffed by very friendly staff.
As with all areas of school life, the relationship between home and school needs to be positive if the student is to realise their potential. The College’s uniform guidelines clearly outline the expectations of its students. This can be found on page 10 then 18 and 19 of the College diary. Parents are encouraged to play their role by expecting their child to be organised the night before school to avoid jumpers being lost or shoes taken by the dog. Other areas that must be mentioned and regularly checked by parents include the correct length of the girl’s skirt, hats that are graffiti/colour free, extreme haircuts and colours. Come on, together (staff, students and parents) we can make a difference.
Should you have any questions or concerns regarding uniform, please do not hesitate to contact your respective Year Coordinator or one of the Assistant Principals.
Until next time:
Dear Young People
Do not bury your talents, the gifts God has given you!
Do not be afraid to dream of great things.
Pope Francis.
Assistant Principal - Mission
Staff and Student Wellbeing
Parent Student Teacher Conferences Term 3
Due to CSO advice and current COVID-19 social distancing requirements, Yr 11 PST Conferences are being conducted via a Google Classroom booking process. The conferences are currently underway over a two week period (T3 W2-3) through Q&A emails, ZOOM or phone calls.
The College will review this process and determine the best approach for PST Conferences for Yr 7-10, scheduled for dates later in Term 3. More information will be sent to parents as each event draws closer as the College is following CSO and NSW Health directives.
Yr 7 & 8 Semester Reports
Yr 7 and Yr 8 Semester 1 Reports will be available on Sentral this week with parents being emailed directly at the time of their release. Yr 7 and Yr 8 Parent Student Teacher nights have been scheduled for later in the term but a decision as to format will be advised closer to these dates.
Stage 6 Subject Selections (Yr 10 into Yr 11 2021)
Our Yr 10s are currently undertaking the process of looking at pathways and Stage 6 options for 2020. For most of our students, this will result in subject selection decisions and I encourage all families to engage in this discernment and ask questions for clarification on NESA requirements, SJPC processes and on HSC specific subjects.
Considering the current social distancing requirements and limited parental access, I would strongly encourage Yr 10 students to speak with either Mr Corsalini (Careers Advisor), Ms Brown (LOL Curriculum) or any relevant subject teachers for advice.
HSC Trial Examinations
Yr 12 will begin their Trial HSC Examinations from T3 W5. Students will need to follow all examination procedures and protocols not only for these assessments but also as a ‘trial run’ for the HSC Written Examinations from the 20th October 2020. Students accessing Disability Provisions need to be familiar with these requirements and the relevant SJPC Student Services processes.
Study Skills
Visit www.studyskillshandbook.com.au to learn more about how you can make your life easier by being a more effective and efficient learner:
Username: stjohnpaul
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.
James Furey
Assistant Principal
Learning and Teaching
A Time for Reflection
It is great to see students and staff back in class, sharing the experiences from their break, and ready to take on the challenges Term 3 presents. This is always an extremely busy term for a number of reasons, some of which are;- Year 10 into Year 11 Subject Selection process is finalised, with counselling/confirmation sessions conducted.
- Year 8 into Year 9 Elective Selection process begins.
- Year 12 are preparing for their HSC Trial exams, completing course work and organising final social, graduation and charity events.
- Year 11 are completing coursework ready to begin HSC courses in Term 4, and aiming to achieve the best RoSA grade they can in each of their subjects.
- Year 7 – 11 student/parent/teacher conferences are conducted.
This year we are also trying to adapt to the ever changing educational landscape that the emergence of COVID-19 is necessitating. Formats and platforms traditionally used to complete activities, like those listed above, are being modified, and innovation and clear communication is proving to be key to success. Our new College website and newsletter attest to this, as is the use of Google Classroom and Google Sites as course delivery platforms.
The College community has been amazing at continually adapting and innovating on a daily basis. However, the processes of reflection and evaluation are also key to success at all levels, and in all situations.
This term we ask all members of our community to reflect on their learning and behavior in an effort to improve. Reflection questions have been provided to Stage 6 students in an effort to focus their attention on evaluating their goals and the strategies they have available in order to achieve them. 
Year 10 will be provided with questions to not only help them prepare for their Interviews in Week 6, but to also assist them in setting goals for the rest of 2020 as they prepare for the challenges of Stage 6 study or the workforce.
Staff and students use surveys, quizzes and numerous other tools to reflect not only on their learning and behaviour, but also on what systems are working, and what can be improved. Reflection and evaluation, although ideally ongoing, are particularly important at the moment. Students need to be able to reflect on their classroom experiences, their own learning journeys, their strengths and challenges, setting new goals and employing effective strategies that will help them achieve these goals. Educators, as adult learners, are continually striving to update, develop, expand, and deepen their professional perspectives of both their subject area and on their goals and roles as educators.
It is with this perspective we are diving into the term. Please join us on this journey!
Claudia Brown
Leader of Curriculum
NEW! Creative Arts Special Admissions Scheme
This new scheme offers talented Year 12 students a chance to enter music and visual arts degrees based on audition and portfolio prior to getting their ATAR. Exceptionally talented students in music and visual arts can now apply for courses at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and Sydney College of Arts prior to receiving an ATAR. Students can receive an early offer based on an audition and interview or by submitting a portfolio of art works and undertaking an interview. The offer applies to domestic students wishing to apply for studies in 2021.
Follow this link to find out more: Sydney Uni - Early offers Talented Students in Music and Visual Arts
ACU Guarantee Program
Guarantee your place at ACU, even before your Year 12 exams. The ACU Guarantee program offers eligible Year 12 students a place at ACU based on your Year 11 results. Offers may be made as early as September. While successful applicants must still complete their Year 12 exams, you can do so secure in the knowledge that your marks from Year 11 meet ACU entry requirements. You may also enhance your entry score by including a short personal statement that gives ACU an insight into your personal circumstances and motivation for university study. Applications open 3 August 2020. You can register your interest here:
You’re More Than Your ATAR
The UOW Early Admission program, assesses four key criteria that demonstrate that you're ready to succeed at university. They look beyond your ATAR, and ask how you've demonstrated:
- Academic readiness
- Motivation and passion
- Communication and collaboration
- Planning and persistence
UOW also look at the results you've earned so far in subjects relevant to your chosen course. Applications for the UOW are now open and will close on August 14 2020.
Find out more here: UOW - Early Admission
RAS Foundation Rural Scholarship
The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW Foundation invites budding students of any age across a diverse range of tertiary courses (including university, TAFE or college) who require financial aid to complete their studies to submit an application. More so than ever, rural and regional NSW has the necessity for driven individuals with an interest in community involvement and strengthening the sustainability of the future of rural and regional NSW.
Scholarships of up to $6,000 for full-time or $3,000 for part-time study are available, along with opportunities to build exclusive professional networks through participation in a range of events.
Scholarships include:
- RAS Foundation Rural Scholarships
- RAS Foundation VET Scholarship
- JB Fairfax Award for Rural & Regional Journalism and Communications
Applications close September 7 2020.
NSW TAFE Careers Guide 2021
NSW TAFE is the largest RTO in NSW and offers a wide range of vocational courses. Students who undertake a vocational credential are work ready and highly sort after by employers.
Download a copy of the 2021 TAFE Career Guide
Available courses include:
Paul Corsalini
Careers Adviser
Year 9
Congratulations and blessings to Alana Johnson who welcomed a beautiful baby boy.
"The last piece of our family puzzle couldn’t wait any longer to enter the world".
Year 12
It goes without saying that Year 12 are in the middle of a very important period in their school life. Term 3 is always jam packed with ‘the good, the bad, and the ugly’ of finishing off their time here at the College. For some it can’t come quick enough, but for the majority it’s a time to relish and soak up all the experiences that are their ‘lasts’.
Mr Paul Corsalini conducted an ‘Entry To University’ talk this week during period 1 of Super Wednesday. This was very beneficial for the students that are already trying to find their way through this complex process and hopefully everyone left with their questions answered and their path a little clearer.
Starting with Drama and Music towards the end of week three is the Trial exam period. This is always a hectic time with exams packed into two weeks. One of the best messages for our students is to ‘Be Prepared’. Being prepared through study and balanced life commitments then they will hopefully make this period not necessarily easy, but easier to manage.
Feeling good about upcoming exams and results is realising that, as the poet A.B. Paterson said - “A man who's done his best, has done enough". Just do your best!
The NSW Education Standards Authority has produced online material - #Stay Healthy HSC. #StayHealthyHSC is a social media partnership between NESA and mental health organisation ReachOut to support students on their journey to this year’s HSC.
Stay Healthy in Term 3 - This term it’s planning to help lighten the mental load in the lead up to the performance, practical and written exams. Visit it for practical tips for staying active, connected and in charge of your wellbeing, with a focus on managing exam stress.
One student that stood out above all others in her fundraising efforts was Zahli Pell of Year 7. Zahli and her family's effort were fantastic, ordering and organising over $300 worth of products. The organising committee visited Zahli in class earlier this week to present her with a certificate and a box of chocolates in appreciation of her efforts.
Year 12 students would like to thank all staff, students and families who placed orders and for their continued fundraising support and efforts.
Mark Coster
Year 12 Coordinator
School Sport
It was wonderful to see school sport up and running on Wednesdays and Thursdays again. With strict social distancing and hygiene processes, the students who venture off campus are involved in a wide range of sports including Tennis, Beach games, Ten pin bowling, Archery and Gymnastics this term. Some of the students on-campus are lucky enough to receive expert coaching across 3 sports - Rugby League, Cricket and Volleyball. Development Officers are leading our students through skills and drills to further develop their game play this term. All students look to be enjoying their sessions and are no doubt looking forward to pitting their skills against other schools next term.
Please note due to Covid-19, there have been changes to Year 7 and 8 sport allocation for Term 3. Some are now participating in off-campus activities such as Beach Games and Fishing instead of Golf and Aquatics as indicated on the permission note sent home at the start of the year. If you have any concerns about your child undertaking these new activities in place of the old for this term, please email the school.
College Athletics Carnival
Unfortunately after much deliberation, we had to cancel this year’s College Athletics Carnival. A number of issues became problematic including the fact that the stadium was unable to accommodate us and we had no alternative venue. We considered holding the carnival at the College and considered a variety of options. In the end, however, we were unable to ensure the level of safety, equity, and viability across the many elements that an event like this requires. With advice including Government directives and legislation, those of the CSNSW Sport and CSO Lismore, we had no other choice than to cancel. We understand many students and families were disappointed by this decision, however, this decision was not made lightly.
Diocesan Sport
Once again, this is a reminder that the following Diocesan sports have been cancelled this term:
- Diocesan Touch
- Diocesan Athletics
- Diocesan Junior Basketball
- Diocesan Netball
Decisions regarding Diocesan sport in Term 4 have yet to be confirmed.
Representative News
Zara Temesi (Year 9) competed in the NSW Cadet (U17) fencing championships over the school holidays and was once again outstanding, finishing second in the state! Congratulations Zara on this wonderful result!
Coming up
9/10 Sport Selection Process
Week 4 - 9 & 10 Sports for Term 4 released to students
Week 5 - Students select sport online
Week 6 - Payment and permission form notes are sent home
Week 8 - All permission notes and money is to be returned by the end of the week.
Week 9 - Sport for Term 4 confirmed - no changes to be made after this week.
Danielle McAra
Leader of Learning - Sport
Artist in Residence
This term the TAS department were very fortunate to host Nicole Slater from Sweet Love Cake Couture as our guest Artist in Residence. Nicole worked generously with our Yr 9 and 10 Food Technology elective classes, and Yr 11 and 12 Hospitality VET students, to produce an abundance of amazing cake creations over the week.
Nicole demonstrated the popular and trendy technique of layering cakes with ganache and then covering in buttercream to produce a ‘Semi Naked’ finish. The students used specialist equipment to develop and refine their techniques in order to achieve the desired straight lines and clean coatings.
Decorations were then applied to the cakes in the students individual designs. Nicole gave advice and direction on how to place items in order to achieve maximum impact, with each design becoming its own masterpiece. Precision piping techniques were used skilfully by the students, and colour combinations explored for visual effect.
The students are to be commended for their enthusiasm, interaction, and positivity towards the workshops, with many trying these skills for the very first time. There were plenty of smiling faces at the end of each group lesson, and an abundance of pride as the students collected their cakes at the end of each day. The concepts and abilities that the students have taken away from the classes will hopefully be put to very good use at home!
To simply say ‘thank you’ to Nicole does not seem enough. Not only has she imparted excellent skills on our students and teachers, she also spent many hours in the preparation and organising of the Artist in Residence program.
Please be sure to visit Nicole’s website to see her amazing works of art Sweet Love Cake Couture
One winner was selected by Nicole from each class, with the criteria for selection being:
- Mastering the level top, smooth sides and sharp corners
- Presenting a cake with good design principles
These 10 finalists were then narrowed to five overall winning designs representing the different Year levels. Our winning cake decorators will each be receiving a prize pack containing cake decorating equipment and links to Nicole’s online workshops so they can further their already amazing skills.
Year 12 - James Pappalardo, Year 11 - Nicholas Bullock, Year 10 - Celeste Barker & Year 9 - Ella Robinson & Stefanie Battaglia
Even though there were five overall winners, each student should be exceptionally proud of the work they produced and the skills that they came away with from the workshops!
Susan Haley
TAS/Hospitality Teacher
Year 8 Drama Enrichment Day
At the end of Term Two Mr Muschal and Mrs Cotton were blessed to introduce 34 creative and talented Year 8 students to the world of Drama at St John Paul College. The day explored teamwork, trust, focus, movement, vocals, characterisation, and playbuilding. Students utilised problem solving, team work, higher order thinking and creativity skills to devise original pieces of theatre. Characters in the performances cried, screamed, breathed life into ‘clay’ and fought for survival.
It was a fun filled day packed with games, workshops and performances. Students overcame personal fears and insecurities, and believed in themselves; they took creative risks and they amazed themselves and others.
Drama is one of the many subjects on offer for Stage 5 and it is open to everyone (regardless of your previous Drama experience). Students who missed out on attending the Drama Enrichment Day are still able to choose the subject and are encouraged to chat to Mr Muschal or Mrs Cotton at school if they have any questions.
A huge round of applause to everyone who participated at the Enrichment Day and we look forward to many more entertaining and empowering lessons in Drama.
Melissa Cotton & Markus Muschal
Teacher
If you have ever wondered how you could change the world then you should contact the St John Paul College’s Public Speaking team as the students have plenty of great ideas to make the world a better place.
The students competed for the chance to enter the Legacy Junior Public Speaking Award run by the NSW Arts Unit. Each student prepared a five minute speech and then presented a two minute impromptu on the topic, ‘To be grown up is a state of mind’.
Samara Satyanand, Lilly Gleeson, Josephine Armstrong, Payton Lawler and Matisse Allen demonstrated their full rhetorical versatility in their prepared speeches covering topics as diverse as ‘Carpe Diem’, ‘Did the older generation really have it that bad?’ and ‘Performing Arts in schools’.
Congratulations to Samara Satyan and and Lilly Gleeson who will be representing the school in the regional championships. The students had their performances filmed to meet Covid compliance.
If they are successful and progress into the State championship they will also have to perform an impromptu speech through live streaming.
Thank you to Louise Maybury, Janine Sawtell and Sharon Brennan who helped organise and adjudicate the 2020 Public Speaking Challenge.
Photo: Lilly Gleeson and Samara Satyanand are the 2020 St John Paul College Public Speaking finalists.
Linda Gleeson
Public Speaking facilitator
During these unprecedented times Earth Club has been meeting each week on Tuesdays in S3, second half of lunch and we have had some new members join us this term.
Our planned activities have been shelved for the time being because of restrictions but we have been discussing new initiatives to implement within the school.
With the Federal Government announcing funding for recycling of plastics within Australia, Local Government projects are being proposed to increase reuse of material that was previously sent offshore, so we are looking forward to seeing what changes will be made within our community.
This Sunday is National Tree Day. Normally a day for planting new trees- but due to Covid- 19, Planet Ark is asking everyone to hug a tree, have a look at their website- Planet Ark - Hug a tree day
Yours in Sustainability
Belinda Hickson
Science
Finance
Top End 2021
