Newsletter #3 2025: Friday 11 April 2025

Principal's Message

Dear Members of the St Joseph’s College Family,

Let us journey together in hope

These were the opening remarks of the Pope’s Lenten message this year and with it an invitation to begin our annual pilgrimage of Lent in faith and hope, starting as we did on Ash Wednesday with the penitential rite of the imposition of ashes.  This is a celebration of our being companions on the journey.

Pope Francis went on to say in his message: This Lent, as we share in the grace of the Jubilee Year, I would like to propose a few reflections on what it means to journey together in hope, and on the summons to conversion that God in his mercy addresses to all of us, as individuals and as a community.

Indeed, Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, is the heart of our faith and the pledge of our hope in the Father’s great promise, already fulfilled in his beloved Son: life eternal.

The Jubilee motto, “Pilgrims of Hope”, evokes the lengthy journey of the people of Israel to the Promised Land, as recounted in the Book of Exodus…It is hard to think of the biblical exodus without also thinking of those of our brothers and sisters who in our own day are fleeing situations of misery and violence in search of a better life for themselves and their loved ones.  A first call to conversion thus comes from the realisation that all of us are pilgrims in this life; each of us is invited to stop and ask how our lives reflect this fact.

The Pope invites us to examine this threefold: To journey, to journey together, and to journey together in hope.  May the hope that does not disappoint, the central message of the Jubilee,be the focus of our Lenten journey towards the victory of Easter.  Christ, my hope, has risen!  He lives and reigns in glory.  Death has been transformed into triumph, and the faith and great hope of Christians rests in this: the resurrection of Christ! 

This, then, is the third call to conversion: a call to hope, to trust in God and his great promise of eternal life.

As Pope St John Paul II said in his papal trip to Australia in 1986:

We do not pretend that life is all beauty.  We are aware of darkness and sin, of poverty and pain.  But we know Jesus has conquered sin and passed through his own pain to the glory of the Resurrection.  And we live in the light of his Paschal Mystery - the mystery of his Death and Resurrection.  “We are an Easter People and Alleluia is our song!”  We are not looking for a shallow joy but rather a joy that comes from faith, that grows through unselfish love, that respects the “fundamental duty of love of neighbour, without which it would be unbecoming to speak of Joy”.  We realise that joy is demanding; it demands unselfishness; it demands a readiness to say with Mary: “Be it done unto me according to thy word”.

Lent is a time for deep reflection.  Use this time - in hope - to look around you, in this school community, at home, in the greater area in which you live.  If you need an idea on which to base your reflection, our four house patrons each have a message for you:

Dalton House: “See a need, act”

Hanly House: “Others before self”

Hoade House: “Keep the faith”

Reynolds House: “Actions speak louder”

As Easter this year falls in the school holidays, our Easter Liturgy celebration will take place on the last day of this school term.  As is standard protocol, all students are expected to attend every school mass and liturgy, and I seek the support of our parents and carers in ensuring their child/ren's, attendance at school that day.

St Joseph’s Day 2025 – 19 March

A prayer dedicated to Saint Joseph:

To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust; with you Christ became man.
Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life.
Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage, and defend us from every evil.

Amen.

Please join with me in congratulating the commitment of the following staff, celebrated as part of this year’s St Joseph’s Day Liturgy:

10 Years (2015-2025):    Mrs Jo Burnett, Mr Mark Klein & Ms Suzane Predi

20 Years (2005-2025):    Mr Matthew Hall

30 years (1995-2025):    Mrs Wendy Kenny, Mrs Louise McLaughlin, Mr Mark Williams & Mrs Sue Wilson

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 10

Next

Thank you for all you have contributed to the College and to our school community.  There are no doubt many wonderful memories for these long-standing members of staff, many changes to the area, many challenges faced and met, and done so together. 

On behalf of the College community, I thank you for your service.

Thank you also to Fr Michael Brady, our Parish Priest, for joining us on our Feast Day of Saint Joseph to celebrate the College Liturgy.

Saint Joseph.  Pray for us.

Applications for Year 7 2026 will close on Friday, 11 April

📨 Enrolment interviews will be held on the following dates:

📍 Monday, 19 May
📍 Tuesday, 20 May
📍 Wednesday, 21 May

To submit your application, please visit our Enrolment Page.
To book your Enrolment Interview please visit our Booking Portal.

🖱️ If you require assistance with your application, please contact Enrolment Officer, Ms Holland via email bps-enrolments@lism.catholic.edu.au

📨 Applications for the Sports Excellence Program can be emailed to damien.quinn@lism.catholic.edu.au see our Sports Excellence page for more information.

🙂 We look forward to new families joining the SJC Community.

ANZAC Day – Friday 25 April 2025

ANZAC Day (25 April) this year falls during the second week of the school holidays.  For more than 30 years, our school has participated in ANZAC Day marches and, this year, the College will be supporting two ANZAC Day marches and ceremonies, with one taking place in Tweed Heads and the other in Pottsville.

Students are welcome to attend either event, and staff supervision will be provided at both venues.

There is an expectation that all members of the STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL will attend and represent the College, however, all students are warmly invited to represent the College at either event.

Please refer to the recent Compass alert for more information.  If you wish for your child to attend and participate in either march, please opt into the ANZAC Day March 2025 Event in Compass.  All students are reminded that they are to assemble at the time and location stipulated, wearing full winter formal uniform.

SAVE THE DATE!
Term 2 Parent /Teacher/Student Interviews:

• Stage 4 and 5 - Monday 5 May 2025 (Week 2, Term 2)
• Stage 6 - Monday 2 June 2025 (Week 6, Term 2)

This year we are looking at splitting the parent-teacher-student conferences into a junior event and senior event, so meetings with students in Year 7-10 will take place on one night, and Year 11 & 12 will take place on a separate night.

The first round of these conferences will begin with students in Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8) and Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10), in Week 2 of Term 2, on Monday 5 May. 

The event for Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12) will be taking place in Week 6 of Term 2, on Monday 2 June.

Bookings are to be made through Compass and Year 7-10 families should expect to receive notifications by the end of the week.  Bookings for Year 11 and 12 will open prior to that event next term.

We ask that at least one parent be in attendance, and that your child accompanies you in full school uniform.

SAVE THE DATE!
Parent Assembly Annual Conference - 14 June 2025: “Thrive in 2025”

The annual Parent Assembly Conference will be held on Saturday 14 June this year in Coffs Harbour.

Please see the Save the Date flyer for more information about this coming event. 

A registration flyer will be sent out closer to the event.

May is the month of Mary

I know we’ve only just started April, but by the time our next newsletter is published, we will be well into May and also past the time of celebrating Mother’s Day.

So today I’d like to ask you to reflect on all mothers, including those who are no longer with us. We give thanks to our own mothers, grandmothers, aunts, great-aunts, older sisters, extended family, family friends, and anyone in your life who has nurtured you or given you refuge, as a mother would.  In the Catholic Church, the month of May is “Mary's Month”.  It's the month we honour Blessed Mary as the Mother of Jesus and our Heavenly Mother.

We reflect with gratitude on all mothers, and let us also pray for mothers who have gone to heaven.
We entrust mothers to the protection of Mary, our heavenly mother.

Australia has its special own connection with Mary as we chose her, under the title of Help of Christians, as principal Patroness.  I also share with you today a special prayer to her:

Prayer to Mary, Help of Christians: Australia’s Patroness
Lord, you place deep in our hearts the love of Mary, Help of Christians. Through her prayers grant wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our Citizens.  Under her protection, may Australia be granted harmony, justice and peace.  We ask this through Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Term 1 College Assemblies

Our fortnightly assemblies are held every second Tuesday (Week B Tuesdays) - notwithstanding any other events, including closing the school due to TC Alfred!  These assemblies are an opportunity to bring the school together, as well as to recognise the efforts of our students in academic, sporting and community activities. 

We continue to acknowledge the efforts of our students with the special End of Year Awards presentation, however, the encouragement of being recognised as things happen is also worthwhile.

So far this year, we have held four assemblies and I am happy to share the following student acknowledgements:

Term 1 Week 2 College Assembly

At our assembly on 11 February, we recognised the following students for their efforts and achievements:

• College House Award:

Term 1 Week 4 College Assembly

At our assembly on 25 February, we recognised the following students for their efforts and achievements:

• Curriculum Award (High Achiever and Learning Gain in 2024 HSC):

During our College Assembly on Tuesday 25 February, the SJC Community celebrated 2024 HSC Excellence.  Traditionally, this assembly celebrates high academic achievements that includes Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks (ATAR), scores of 90+ (out of 100); our College Dux; and highest learning gains across six years of secondary education.

We celebrated the following students and their excellent achievements:

Abbey Olsen, Jasmine Hunter, Alyssa Marshall and Charlize Merrin, current Year 12 students, achieved very pleasing results in Accelerated HSC Biology, whilst in Year 11 last year.  These students were also celebrated at the assembly.

Our high achievers answered questions relating to their successes.  Our current students received valuable tips and tricks from our high achievers through the Q&A session.

• College House Award:

Term 1 Week 8 College Assembly

At our assembly on 25 March, we recognised the following students for their efforts and achievements:

• College Values Award:

‘Sincerity – Humility – Courage – Wisdom’:

🥇       Grace Culpitt - for Courage

• College Sports Award:

• College House Award:

Term 1 Week 10 College Assembly

At our assembly on 8 April, we recognised the following students for their efforts and achievements:

• College House Award:

 Outstanding achievements across the board - Congratulations to you all!

Information for families

I ask that you please take the time to read through this newsletter, as you will find more important information that will help you navigate your way through to the end of this term, and on to the commencement of the new term.

I would like to thank you all for your continued support for all that we do here.

May this Easter be for you and your family a time of togetherness and renewal.  I hope that it will be a time of reflection that strengthens the bonds that unite us and that it also reaffirms our shared values and beliefs.

I hope you all enjoy the holiday break, that you have time together with your family, friends or loved ones, and that everyone returns safely to the College on 28 April.

Saint Joseph.  Pray for us.

God Bless

Mr Ryan Campbell
Principal

Principal's Notes

Term 2 Dates

Following the completion of Term 1 on Friday (11 April), we wish all families a restful and happy holiday break.  We look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Monday 28 April for Term 2.  Please note that we commence Term 2 in an ‘A’ week - this will be Day 1 of the timetable.

To assist families with forward planning throughout the upcoming term, please take note of the scheduled student-free days below:

• Monday 9 June:  King’s Birthday (all NSW schools closed for the Public Holiday)
• Tuesday 10 June:  Staff Professional Learning Day
• Thursday 3 July:  Staff Professional Learning Day
• Friday 4 July:  Staff Spirituality Day

Therefore, Term 2 lessons conclude on Wednesday 2 July.

Uniform Expectations - Terms 2 and 3 ‘Winter Uniform’

As Term 1 draws to a close, we would like to provide some timely reminders regarding uniform for the commencement of Term 2.

We will be welcoming our students back in full ‘Winter uniform for the commencement of Term 2 on Monday 28 April.  This includes our boys wearing ties for Term 2 and 3.

Please note that only the College jumper or College jacket can be worn as outer garments.  No other jumpers, hoodies, jackets, etc can be worn.

For further information, the College Uniform Policy can be found on the College website.  Parents and carers are asked to positively encourage correct uniform and grooming at all times.  Students should leave home and travel to the College dressed as per expectations here at the College.  Uniform or grooming concerns may result in punitive actions taken until the matter is resolved.

A reminder that we do have our School Photo Day on the Friday of the first week back, so the coming school holidays are the perfect opportunity to rectify any issues regarding dress standards and personal grooming habits.  [Refer to today’s article by the Assistant Principal-Mission, Mr Brown, for more information on Photo Day.]

Afternoon Learning Hub

Our Afternoon Learning Hub has returned to the Library!

A reminder of the dates and times:  Tuesday to Thursday from 3:15pm to 5pm.

Duty of Care and Early Departures Through the School Day

It is our Duty of Care to provide a safe and supportive environment, and this also includes being able to identify any adult who comes to our Parent Reception to collect a student.  If we do not follow procedure, potentially a student could leave our school grounds with an unidentified adult, for which we are not prepared to take that risk for safety and legal reasons.

Therefore, we ask our families to follow the procedure:

1. Provide your child with a note (separate from the diary), briefly indicating the reason and stating the time you as parent/carer will be collecting your child from the Parent Reception (This note should be presented by the student to the Student Reception at their earliest convenience upon their arrival to school).
2. Remind your child to be at the Parent Reception at the time stated in your note. (We don't interrupt learning for reminder calls)
3. Meet your child at the Parent Reception to sign them out from the College.

Please allow enough time to park and walk up to the Parent Reception to collect your child/ren.  Please also be mindful that this process is done in the best interest of our students, your child/ren, to ensure they get to where they need to go as safely as possible.  Please be patient with our staff assisting at Parent Reception to ensure these processes are followed.

Please also be aware that should you have another person collecting your child on your behalf, you should write these details in your note.  If you do not make this clear, our office staff will need to verify the identity of the person who is collecting the student, and they will be asked to provide proof of identity.

We ask all visitors to please remain calm and speak with respect to our staff.  They are simply following our procedure and we are doing our best to ensure the safety of our students.

A last-minute phone request for a student to leave College grounds puts the safety of a student at risk and places undue pressure on our Administration Staff.  We simply ask families to follow this procedure.

The King of Kings

Angel Studios, the creators of impactful Christian stories The Chosen and Sound of Freedom, is set to release THE KING OF KINGS in cinemas Thursday, 10 April, in Australia.

This animated film, featuring an all-star cast including Kenneth Branagh, Uma Thurman, Mark Hamill, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Forest Whitaker, and Oscar Isaac, brings to life the story of Jesus Christ through the imaginative lens of Charles Dickens narrating to his son, Walter.  Watch the trailer here.

THE KING OF KINGS is more than just a movie—it’s a powerful tool for faith formation and moral reflection.  This heartfelt retelling of Christ’s journey emphasises His love, sacrifice, and triumph, making it especially relevant for children as they grow in their understanding of faith.  Through its engaging storytelling and stunning animation, the film connects timeless Christian values—compassion, courage, and hope—to the challenges of our modern world.  It’s an opportunity to inspire young hearts and minds while offering families a shared experience that reinforces the Gospel in a fresh, relatable way. 

Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Term 2 is always busy, so below are a few dates and events for you to mark on your calendar:

Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences

• Stage 4 and 5 (Year 7-10) P/T/S interviews will be on Monday May 5.  Although you will not yet have a semester report for your child, this is a great chance to meet their teacher, discuss the first term of work and make plans and goals for Term 2. 
• Stage 6 (Year 11 and 12) P/T/S interviews are on Monday June 2.  These interviews will be after the reports have been released, so it is a great time to assess results and set goals for the remainder of the year. 
• Please bring your child to the interviews so they can be part of the learning conversation. 
• Bookings for Year 7 - 10 P/T/S are OPEN and can be made through Compass.  Bookings for Year 11 and 12 will open prior to that event next term.

Stage 4 and 5 Assessment Block: Wednesday 25 June 25 to Wednesday 2 July 2025

Whilst it seems a long way off now, our junior assessment block is in Week 9 and 10.  For Year 7 students, this will be their first formal assessment block.  Many of these tasks will not be formal examinations, but they will definitely have a busy few weeks of showing what they know and can do.  As above, Parent/Teacher/Student interviews are an important part of the preparation for these tasks. 

Literacy - Year 8 Writing Goals

Literacy continues to be a focus at the College.  In Term 2, all Year 8 students will review their own written work and set a writing goal.  Parents will receive a Compass notification telling you what goal your child has nominated and how you can help us help them to achieve it. 

As always, thank you for your communication, support and interest in your child’s learning.  If you have any concerns or ideas, please do contact your child’s teachers, or me at the College to discuss their learning.

Wishing you a safe and happy Easter.

God bless

Mr Chris Mason
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Facebook posts from Ben Franklin, President of the NSW Legislative Council:

Grafton Regional Roadshow a hit!

It’s not every day that you get to hear 17 young leaders from so many different parts of the North Coast participating in a public speaking competition against their peers.

Yesterday saw the first round of the Parliament of NSW’s Regional School Public Speaking Competition.  It was great to have my mate, the local member for Clarence, Richie Williamson MP help me adjudicate what was a very difficult competition with so many outstanding speeches.

Congratulations to Ben from Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School on winning the region’s heat.  He will now compete in the state final in Parliament House December.

I would also like to commend the joint runners up, Eva from Toormina High School and Caleb from St Joseph's College Banora Point and all the other competitors on performing so well.

Next stop, Queanbeyan!

Grafton High School Trinity Catholic College Lismore Woolgoolga High School McAuley Catholic College Grafton Casino High School Dorrigo High School Maclean High School Clarence Valley Anglican School St John's College, Woodlawn Xavier Catholic College Ballina Byron Bay High School Official Bishop Druitt College Coffs Harbour Christian Community School Geoff Provest MP NSW Legislative Council

This week, it was great to be joined by fellow MPs, Richie Williamson MP, Geoff Provest MP and Sue Higginson MLC to hear from young North Coast leaders in what was a raw and honest conversation about what they and their peers are experiencing in their schools, friendship groups and communities.

A variety of topics were discussed ranging from climate change, the challenges of social media, the need to address the ongoing homelessness crisis in the Northern Rivers, and even the expectation for us (politicians) to set a higher standard in Parliament and public life.

These bright young people have so much going for them in their futures and we will now take their experiences, suggestions and solutions back the Parliament of NSW and the NSW Government.

Next week the Regional Roadshow is off to Queanbeyan!

Casino High School McAuley Catholic College Grafton St Joseph's College Banora Point St John's College, Woodlawn Xavier Catholic College Ballina Bishop Druitt College Clarence Valley Anglican School Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School Grafton High School headspace Grafton

Work Readiness Pathway Students

Congratulations to our Year 11 Work Ready students on completing their mock job interviews! 

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 9

Next

A huge thank you to Mrs May for organising this invaluable experience and to our volunteer interviewers for their time and support:  John Keating, Keating Law; Karen Kercselics, Connect Northern Rivers; Chris Holt, McGrath Coolangatta/Tweed Heads/Tweed Coast; Karen Arnold, Effective Workplace Solutions; Carlee Smith, Medical Rescue; Chris May, and Karen Reagan.

Rosies visit - Term 1: Thanks to all the students who support this initiative by giving up their free time!

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 29

Next

Assistant Principal - Mission

You Have a Friend

You Have a Friend (YHAF) is a local charity run by volunteers who support the homeless, marginalised and single parents and their children.  Further information about YHAF can be found here.

YHAF is in need of food and drink donations, in particular the items listed below.  Any donations of non-perishable food would be most welcome and greatly appreciated. Donations can be made to the College office .

• Instant noodles
• Canned soups
• Tinned tuna
• Cordial
• Orange juice
• Baked beans (small tins)
• Tinned spaghetti (small tins)
• Tinned vegetables

During the Lenten Season in particular, we are called to prayer, fasting and almsgiving.  Please support this worthy cause if you are able to.

College Photo Day: Friday 2 May

As previously advised, our College Photo Day will be taking place on Friday 2 May (Week 1, Term 2), with the Photo Catch up day held on Wednesday 7 May (Week 2, Term 2).  I repeat today  all the information our families need to know about our photo day requirements:

Group and portrait photographs can be purchased by following the link below or by returning the order envelope with your payment to our photographer on school photo day.  Order envelopes will be distributed in AWC.

Two easy ways to purchase:

1. Visa, MasterCard or PayPal
2. Cash – complete the envelope supplied and return it to our photographer on photo day (correct money please - no change given)

Order school photos here

Or visit: www.advancedlife.com.au
And enter online order code: QD5 7H5 CW3

School photography information:

• Online orders - do not require an envelope returned to your school.
• Sibling Photos - Don’t forget to pre-order your sibling photos online up to 24 hours before photo day.  We provide your school with a list of sibling orders right up to the day of photography, so no one misses out. If you miss the online order deadline, you can submit a completed sibling order envelope first thing in the morning of the day of photography, so your school is aware you want the photo taken and can bring your children together in time for it. Sibling photographs only apply to children enrolled at St Joseph’s College.
• Late fees - a late fee will be applied to each package purchased after photo day due to the additional cost of producing these packages separately.
• Package delivery - School photographs will be returned approximately six (6) weeks after the day of photography. Please note this delivery timeframe is dependent on proofing and additional photography days at your school.
• Previous Years’ photos - Past years’ photographs including sports, co-curricular and representative groups are also available to order under the “previous years or group photo” tabs at your school’s advancedorder site when you click on the “Order School Photos Here” button above.  You can also order past packages, portrait images and gifts from your child’s unique, individual and secure advancedyou image archive site using the unique 9-digit image code found on packages you have ordered in the past.

advancedlife would like to express our appreciation to St Joseph's College for placing your trust in us.  Please remember we offer a 100% money back guarantee on our products to ensure your peace of mind.  We would also love to receive your feedback or resolve any issues you may experience as fast as possible, to ensure your satisfaction.  If you have any questions, comments or feedback relating to your advancedlife experience please contact us at: www.advancedlife.com.au/contact

All students are to wear the College's full school uniform.

As is the case for any school photo day, please also ensure that your child/ren comes to school appropriately groomed and dressed according to the College Uniform Policy.  In particular, please note that boys need to be clean-shaven and wearing their belt.  All students are required to wear their College tie for school photos, and long hair (on the collar) needs to be tied up.  Students are required to take their photos without jumpers, jackets or the senior jersey. 

If your child(ren) has a practical PE/Sport lesson on Photo Day, please ensure they come to school dressed in their full school uniform and that they bring their sports uniform with them to get changed.

Mr Eamon Brown
Assistant Principal - Mission

Leader of School Evangelisation

Project Compassion 2025 - Unite Against Poverty this Lent

Thank you to everyone for supporting Caritas Australia’s annual Project Compassion Appeal this Lent.  The work of Caritas Australia is only possible with the dedication, passion and tenacity of their local partners who implement the programs.  They are the heroes on the ground, working tirelessly behind-the-scenes every day to create a better future for their communities.  This year’s featured partners include Caritas Samoa in Samoa, Catholic Relief Services in Vietnam and Caritas Kongolo in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Prior to Holy Week, we continue to reflect on the lives of people vulnerable to extreme poverty and injustice and how we can respond by supporting Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion Appeal. 

Together, we are creating a better tomorrow, helping vulnerable communities build stronger futures for themselves and empowering them to break free from the cycle of poverty.  Thank you for standing with us!

I leave you today with the Lenten Prayer provided by Project Compassion.

Mrs Hannah Ardrey
Leader of School Evangelisation

Project Compassion Lenten Prayer

God of our journey
we are all pilgrims of hope
brought together by your love
and your wish that we may all be one.

We pray that in this Year of Jubilee
when we are called to greater justice
and care for our common home
that we may Unite Against Poverty.

May we work in unity for the freedom
 of the oppressed and the renewal of creation.
may our compassionate minds
and generous hearts help bring about a
world where all can live in peace.

May our Lenten pilgrimage of
fasting, almsgiving and prayer
bring us closer to your loving heart.

We ask this in the name of Jesus.

Amen.

Indigenous Yarns

👣Jingi Walla - Hello to our St Joey’s community👣 

According to our traditional Bundjalung knowledge of seasons, at this time of year we are coming out of Yirrimbu (wet season) with our weather slowly changing into Guyumbu (Mullet season).  This time signifies our winds will change to mostly from the west and the rain of the past months will end. 

A part of our rich heritage, it is important for us to understand the seasons and their cycles and their connection to land and sea.  The mullet (fishing) season is fast approaching, which coincidentally aligns with our Liturgical Calendar season of Lent, where we are called to sacrifice our wants and seek gratitude for the things we have.  

It seems fitting that during this time, many Catholic communities give up red meat, and look to alternatives, such as fish! 

Throughout history, mullet season has been a community event for our local Aboriginal families, as it is a time for celebrating ‘Country’  and what it provides for us.  It is a time for gathering, connecting and coming together as one. 

Similarly to our time of Lent, where we gather together to celebrate the life, death and resurrection of Jesus with prayer, sharing meals and gathering together to celebrate with and cherish the ones we love most. 

Hence, the mullet season is perfect for this time of year, as God and Mother Earth are aware of our needs and provide for us in ways which we sometimes neglect or fail to see. 

Welcome back to our returning families this year and a warm welcome to our new Year 7 students and families, as well as to those new to us in other grades.  We trust that your sons and daughters have settled in well to the new year at SJC and are embracing the fun, experiences and challenges that this brings. 

The start of the school year has been quite busy, with some unexpected impacts on learning and school time with ex-TC Alfred, however, we sincerely hope that everyone was able to get through this time relatively unscathed and are returning to some normality after this event. 

We will endeavour to send correspondence to parents/carers throughout this year to inform you of different cultural activities and opportunities for our students to get involved in.  We would also love parent input into the Goori career action plans for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students which will be happening next term with more information coming soon. 

In other news we warmly welcome to staff, Thomas Busbridge filling the position vacated by Mr Nicholls.  Congratulations, Tom, we look forward to a fantastic year of sharing culture with you. Here are some words from Tom:  ‘For those that don’t know me my name is Thomas Busbridge, I am a local Bundjalung/ Wiradjuri young man.  Many of you may remember me from last year being in a student leadership role in our College.  I am currently studying Marine Science at Griffith University on the Gold Coast which I am enjoying so far.  I look forward to continuing to support your sons and daughters over the coming year.  Please don't hesitate to reach out if I can help in any way.’

This year we are available Monday to Friday, and can be contacted on the below emails  thomas.busbridge@lism.catholic.edu.au  and lexene.busbridge@lism.catholic.edu.au  please feel free to email any questions or concerns you may have in regard to your son/daughter’s learning, wellbeing or school operations.

We have had many students participate in loads of activities this term and absolutely excelled at being great representatives of SJC.  A special mention today: recently a few selected young Aboriginal students in our school were given the opportunity to attend the Ngalawaa Bulaan Gii (hunting, gathering together) Camp.  

This camp entailed four jam-packed days of cultural experiences: the boys learnt from many community leaders and elders including Uncle Kris Cook, Aunty Delta Kay, Mindy Woods, Uncle Lowey, Uncle Kyle Slabb and the Gudjinburra Dancers and, of course, the Country as Teacher Team which run the camp.  Over the course of the gathering, the boys participated in various activities and learning experiences including spear making, language workshops, bush tucker tastings, movement workshops, sand art activity and cultural dance practice. 

I would like to commend Jordan, Darcy, Sunny, Reef and Finn for their enthusiasm, respect and participation in these activities.  It was great to see all the boys grow in their cultural knowledge and leadership skills and can’t wait to see what they do with these new found skills back in our school community.  

A huge Thank you (Bugalbeh) also to Ms Fiona Murray in accompanying us on camp all week, we hope she enjoyed the experience as much as we did.

If you would like to find out more information about the work of Culture College and Country as Teacher feel free to follow this link - https://www.countryasteacher.org/ 

We wish everyone a safe and blessed Easter break and look forward to connecting with you all in Term 2.

Many Thanks
Bugalbeh

Mrs Lexe Busbridge and Mr Thomas Busbridge
St Joseph’s College Indigenous Education Workers

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 13

Next

Leader of Pastoral Care

ANZAC Day 2025

ANZAC Day (25 April) this year falls during the second week of the school holidays.  For more than 30 years, St Joseph’s College has participated in ANZAC Day marches.  We march to remember those who have served our country and acknowledge those who continue to do so.  This is an opportunity for students to demonstrate and experience the values of citizenship, community awareness and school spirit.  There is an expectation that all members of the STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL will attend and represent the College at the march on the day, however, all student are warmly invited to attend to represent the College.

This year the College will be supporting two ANZAC Day marches and ceremonies: One in Tweed Heads and another in Pottsville. Students are welcome to attend either event, staff supervision will be provided at both venues.
  
Tweed Heads - Jack Evans Boat Harbour (next to the Children’s Playground) Boundary Street, Tweed Heads, by 9:45am
Students from the College who wish to participate, are required to meet at Jack Evans Boat Harbour (next to the Children’s Playground) Boundary Street, Tweed Heads, by 9:45am.  Students are to report to attending staff members so height order can be arranged prior to 10:10am.  The assistance of senior students in this organisation would be greatly appreciated.  At the conclusion of the service, all students attending are invited to have a light snack and soft drink in the Twin Towns Services Carpark courtesy of the Twin Towns RSL.  Students will need to organise their own transport to and from the ANZAC March. Students are free to leave at the end of the service (approx 11:30am).

Pottsville - Cnr of Coronation Ave and Berkleys Lane from 7:15am
Students from the College who wish to participate are to meet Cnr of Coronation Ave and Berkleys Lane from 7:15am.  Students are to report to attending staff members so height order can be arranged prior to 7:30am.  The assistance of senior students in this organisation would be greatly appreciated.  Students will need to organise their own transport to and from the ANZAC March. Students are free to leave at the end of the service (approx 9:00am)

For both events:

• Students must wear their full school uniform, including their school cap and ties for boys.  It is important that students make every effort to look their best and are groomed in the manner required by the College uniform policy (hair tied back, no excess jewellery/make-up, boys clean shaven, etc).  We will be marching to the Cenotaph in Wharf Street as usual for the main service.

If you wish for your child to attend and participate in the march, please opt into the ANZAC Day March 2025 Event in Compass.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at the College.

Mr Mathew Lynch
Leader of Pastoral Care

Leader of Curriculum

Refer to the link below to view the updated Assessment Handbooks and Assessment Calendars on the College website:

https://sjcbanorapoint.schoolzineplus.com/

Mr Matthew Hall
Leader of Curriculum

Leader of Pedagogy

Study Skills Tips for April:  Creating a Study Playlist

As outlined in my last newsletter article, through our subscription, all College students have free access to the Study Skills Handbook website, www.studyskillshandbook.com.au.  We believe that this website will help your child develop essential skills for academic success.  

Attached is a flyer for this month's Study Skills Tips on Creating a Study Playlist, with ideas on How Music Can Transform Your Study Sessions (click on the link provided, or see the flyer below). 

As always, your child can access all the wonderful resources the Study Skills Handbook website has to offer.  To access the handbook, go to www.studyskillshandbook.com.au and login with these details:

username:  sjc
password:  24results

Mr Carlo Trimboli
Leader of Pedagogy

Leader of Learning - Creative Arts

St Joseph’s College Regional Art Gallery Tour
Visual Arts Students Year 10, 11 12

On Thursday, 27 March, Visual Arts students from Years 10, 11, and 12 embarked on an educational excursion to the Lismore Regional Art Gallery to attend the 2024 HSC ARTEXPRESS Exhibition.

This annual exhibition, a prominent event in New South Wales, showcases exceptional student artworks created for the art-making component of the Higher School Certificate (HSC) examination in Visual Arts.  By viewing this exhibition, our students gained valuable insights into the creative talents of their peers, which served as a source of inspiration and motivation for their own artistic endeavours.

During the return journey, the group visited the Tweed Regional Gallery, where they had the opportunity to engage with the works of Margaret Olley, one of Australia's most distinguished artists.  The students were able to view an extensive collection of Olley's renowned still life and interior paintings, which facilitated connections with their in-class art historical studies on this artist.  This experience not only deepened their understanding of Olley's artistic style but also provided a tangible link between theoretical knowledge and practical observation.

Mrs Nicole Taylor
Leader of Learning - Creative Arts

Acting Leader of Learning - HSIE

This term, our Year 10 students have been engaged in learning experiences outside the classroom.  The Geography cohort participated in a fieldwork excursion, exploring local coastal environments while learning about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander connection to land, the importance of their stories and culture, and their role as custodians caring for the land.  Meanwhile, the History class had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal history, focusing on pre-colonisation, colonisation, and the changing rights and freedoms of Aboriginal people.  Both experiences allowed students to connect their classroom learning with real-world contexts, strengthening their understanding of these important topics.

Mrs Georgia James
Acting Leader of Learning - Human Society and Its Environment

Geography Excursion

On Friday of Week 7, Year 10 Geography students embarked on a field trip to investigate coastal functioning, change, and management.  The journey took them to several key locations, providing firsthand experience with the dynamics of these vital environments.

The students were fortunate to hear from Indigenous cultural educators, who highlighted the critical importance of sustainable coastal management.  Thank you to Mr and Mrs Busbridge, who shared insights into the deep spiritual and physical connections between Indigenous people and the land.

The students explored the practical management strategies implemented along the headland at Fingal, particularly the significance of vegetation replanting in strengthening dunes and combating coastal erosion, which is especially crucial after Cyclone Alfred.

At Kingscliff North Caravan Park, students explored the recreational uses of the area, examining both its economic and environmental impacts.

The final stop was Point Danger, overlooking Duranbah Beach. Here, the students analysed a coastal landscape and observed the Tweed River Entrance Sand Bypass Project (TRESBP). Informative plaques detailed the project's evolution and function. Students also used this time to consolidate their field notes, preparing for an upcoming assessment on coastal processes and management strategies.

This excursion provided an engaging and practical learning experience, allowing students to witness coastal issues firsthand and understand the human efforts involved in their management.

Some insights from students:

"I learnt how the sand pump jetty works and how much it costs to run." – Ethan 10D

"There are many volunteers keeping the beach and coastal areas intact and accessible." – Lalita 10D

"I learnt that Fingal was mined for precious minerals, devastating the local Aboriginal community's connection with the land, as well as the habitat of plants and animals." – Jack 10D

"I didn’t realise that the river and creek rock walls block the movement of sand to nearby beaches." – Joshua 10D

"I learnt that vegetation behind beaches protects the buildings and other amenities behind them." – Tadgh 10D

"The scenic area of our coastline was very beautiful. I really enjoyed learning about how we manage our local environment." – Maia 10E

"I really liked how we investigated the damage to the coastline after Cyclone Alfred." – Israel 10E

History Incursion

Written by Blake Senti Year 10

On Friday, the 21st of March, the Year 10 History cohort attended a History Incursion with Mr and Mrs Busbridge.  This was an eye-opening experience, to say the least!  During the term, our focus has been on broadening our knowledge of Australian history, including learning about Aboriginal rights and freedoms.  It was very insightful to have the Busbridges come in and teach us about Aboriginal history.  We covered the Aborigines Protection Act, the Stolen Generations, how it still affects Indigenous families today, and their culture and traditions.  The incursion was not only informative, but it also motivated us to think more deeply about history and how we can close the gap.  We would like to thank Mr and Mrs Busbridge for coming and sharing their knowledge with us.

Leader of Learning - Mathematics

This term has offered some exciting opportunities for our budding mathematicians to put their skills to the test!

One of the highlights has been the introduction of the SJC Olympiad, a new challenge where weekly math problems are posted on Google Classroom, and students submit their solutions.  These problems are designed to inspire a love for maths and help students sharpen their problem-solving abilities.  Congratulations to Georgia Moffat, Jessida Wilcox, Kayla Ward, Kodi Mason, and Sean Saunders for taking on this challenge, and a special mention to Matthew Elias for his outstanding performance across all problem sets. We look forward to seeing even more students participate next term!

In addition, last week, we hosted the Kangourou sans Frontières (KSF) Maths Competition, the world’s largest maths competition, with over 6 million participants globally.  This event offered our students a fantastic opportunity to experience math in a competitive setting and further develop their problem-solving skills.

Congratulations to the students that participated and took on the challenge:

Marli Powell, Edward Stanton, Claire Knowler, Lola Parkinson, Clifford Connolly, Georgia Moffat, Paniah Dinham, Charlie Gamble, Levi Burns, Sean Saunders, Mason Maynard, Ella Reid, Audrey Siscar, Grace O’Connor, Jesse Brown, Shay Johnstone, and Nathan Matthew.

Special mention to William Renwick, Thomas Haig-Greenwood, Phoenix Spry, Jessica Wilcox and Byron Oehlmann who received a Credit, and Matthew Elias who achieved a Distinction. Great effort!

We are excited to continue offering such challenges and can’t wait to see what our students accomplish next!

Mrs Leanne Ward
Leader of Learning - Mathematics

Resource Centre News

ANZAC Day

Remembering ANZAC Day has always been an important tradition at St Joseph’s College Resource Centre. ANZAC Day, originally a commemoration of the landing of Australian and New Zealand forces at Gallipoli on the 25th of April 1915, has grown to become the most important national day in Australia. In addition to acknowledging the service and sacrifice of all Australians who have served in war or on peacekeeping operations, ANZAC Day has become core to the identity of Australia itself. A day on which Australians reflect on the ANZAC spirit and the qualities we as a nation value and believe in.

Other Library news:
The senior study sessions continue to be productive and well utilised by our senior students.

Also, the games sessions have returned, and the students are loving the challenge of the Chess Tournaments.

Happy Easter to all and have a safe holiday!

Ms Mary Green
Teacher Librarian

Sports Academy

Sports Academy Student Success

1. Lachy M on being awarded club champ for under 12's 24/25 SLS season

2. Lachy M & Jackson N and their team for winning their GF for South Tweed touch football

3. Indigo D for being awarded Club Champion at  Tallebudgera Pony Club

Outstanding achievements! 

On & UP!

Sports Academy Student Success

1. Autumn S + Kiara S recent swims at NSWCCC State Swimming trials. Kiara learnt a lot from her participation in her events and Autumn came away with a PB swim placing her 5th in the 50m Butterfly. 

2. Eva L for her selection in the Opens Dio Netball team and Lily B for her selection as a reserve on the same team.

3. Elodie C and her U16 QLD State hockey team.  They have returned from National Championships with some great playing experiences and a lot of enjoyment. 

On & UP!

Sports Academy Olympics Term 1

This term the Sports Academy students have been involved in the Sports Academy Olympics.  Students are placed into 4 teams which they remain in all year and compete against each other in a variety of sports.  It's been a great way to see their natural sporting ability, competitive sportsmanship and teamwork shine across different skill sets. 

Term 1 has seen students participate in Netball and Oztag. 

The Ladder as it currently stands:

Team 1 - 7pts
Team 2 - 11pts
Team 3 - 14pts
Team 4 - 1pt 

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 27

Next

Sports Academy & PhysioPlace Tweed Heads

This year the Sports Academy is lucky enough to be partnering with PhysioPlace Tweed Heads.  We are very grateful for Carly Jennar, head physio and owner of PhysioPlace, for providing her time on a weekly basis to work with our Sports Academy students on injury prevention and management. 

Mrs Nicola Tutt
Sports Academy Coordinator

Canteen

A reminder that our school canteen operates during term time, opening at 8:00am for recess and/or lunch orders before the school day commences.  Both cash transactions and EFTPOS facilities are available at the canteen during recess and lunchtime.

Meals are freshly prepared every day, and the choices are diverse and healthy so you can be assured that your child has access to a nutritious lunch whilst at school.  The canteen also offers a variety of gluten-free and other special menu options, so please do not hesitate to contact the canteen staff to discuss these alternatives.

We ask you to please ensure your child places their LUNCH AND/OR RECESS ORDER by 9:00am.

Canteen Price List 2025

The Canteen Ladies

Lowes On-Campus Uniform Shop

The uniform shop hours are as follows: 

Every Tuesday during the school term: 12:00pm – 3:30pm
Every Thursday during the school term: 8:00am – 12:00pm

During shop hours: (07) 5523 9300
This shop is managed by Lowes staff only

Click on the link to see the new price list that came into effect this term (as previously provided).

Payments: Cash and EFTPOS Only
NO CHEQUES ACCEPTED

Or, if you'd like to make an online purchase, you can use this handy link. 

Community News

Thank you to the following sponsors for their support of this year's Vietnam Immersion: