Newsletter 12: Wednesday 18 December 2024
Principal's Message
Dear Members of the St Joseph’s College Family,
As the school year draws to a close, this is both an exciting time and a time for reflection.
I’d like to acknowledge the support of the whole school community in making this year, my first year as principal, an amazing experience. There have been many challenges we have overcome together, and there have been many times I have been deeply touched when witnessing the kindness, generosity and humanity shown throughout our community. May that spirit continue to grow at St Joseph’s.
I recently read this prayer from an overseas school, and find it holds true for us as well:
Teachers' prayer for the end of the school year
Christ, Teacher and Lord,
Bless all in this school as we seek to end our year
with the grace You so generously provide.
We give thanks for the students and the faculty, the administrators,
and all who have contributed to this year of nurturing and growth.
We affirm all the positive moments:
Of insight, of the excitement of learning,
Of accomplishment, of creativity,
Of laughter, of a sense of community.
We recognise the times of struggle, of difficult work,
of misunderstanding,
Even of failure…
We give these to You for transformation,
So they can become seeds that will find fertile soil.
As we leave for the summer,
May we take with us the knowledge
that You will keep us all in Your embrace
so we may rest and be restored,
And so we can continue in the ongoing discovery of Your Love.
Amen.
While we have introduced this year a number of certificates to recognise student's hard work and achievements throughout the year, it was a very special morning on Monday to acknowledge those students who have excelled in all areas at our end of year award presentation. It was with no small amount of pride that I was able to present student awards across academic, sporting and community arenas and I congratulate all recipients for their dedication and hard work in these areas. I include today this week's End of Year Awards Presentation.
As we approach the Christmas season, a time of reflection, connection, and renewal, we want to take this opportunity to discuss the wellbeing of our young people in a rapidly evolving digital world as they move into the holiday season.
Guiding Positive Behaviours
In an era where social media and digital communication dominate, bullying—whether online or in person—remains a serious concern. The emotional and mental toll of bullying can be profound, with far-reaching effects on self-esteem, relationships, and academic engagement. We encourage you to have open, compassionate conversations with your child about treating others with respect and kindness. These discussions can empower them to stand against bullying, foster empathy, and reflect Gospel values in their daily lives.
Navigating Online Risks
With the growing prevalence of AI tools, scams, deepfake content, and access to harmful materials, young people are increasingly exposed to online risks. These influences can distort their understanding of themselves and the world around them, leading to confusion and unrealistic expectations. We urge you to monitor your child’s online activities and encourage responsible technology use. The Christmas holidays present a perfect opportunity to set boundaries, reduce screen time, and encourage meaningful offline connections.
Strengthening Relationships
The holidays are also a chance to deepen family bonds and foster positive relationships. Encourage your child to engage in activities that nurture personal growth, whether through time with loved ones, community involvement, or hobbies that inspire creativity and joy. These moments not only build emotional resilience but also reflect the values of faith, love, and justice that underpin our Catholic identity.
Supporting You with Resources
We understand that guiding young people through these challenges can be complex, which is why we recommend the following trusted resources:
- eSafety Commissioner: Practical advice on online safety, bullying prevention, and managing digital footprints.
- headspace: Support for young people’s mental health, offering guidance on managing stress and anxiety.
- ThinkUKnow: Education on navigating the digital world safely and securely.
- Parentline NSW: Confidential support and advice for managing challenging behaviours and family dynamics (1300 1300 52).
These resources provide valuable tools to help you navigate conversations with your child and create a safer, more supportive digital environment.
The Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools are committed to working in partnership with you to nurture a generation of respectful, resilient, and compassionate young people. With your support, we can guide our students to live out Gospel values, develop strong relationships, and use their gifts to enrich the lives of others.
May this Christmas bring peace, joy, and love for your family.
Again, I thank you for your continued support of all that we do at the College. It is greatly appreciated. I look forward to another wonderful academic year in 2025 and I hope that all families can have a restful holiday season.
God Bless
Mr Ryan Campbell
Principal
Principal's Notes
Uniform
With the upcoming Christmas holidays, the College would like to provide some reminders to ensure our students return to school in 2024 appropriately dressed and groomed. Students are to wear their full summer uniform for the commencement of Term 1. We thank you in advance for your support and cooperation regarding the College uniform and grooming expectations. The Uniform Policy can be found on the College website.
In anticipation of the new school year commencing 2025, the College would like to provide a reminder to families regarding shoes, both formal and for Sport / PDHPE. The College is informing families of this change now in anticipation for those families who need to purchase new shoes for the remainder of the year (and over the school holidays) so they are in line with our policy for the 2025 school year.
Please read School Shoe Policy for further information about what is in line with College expectations and what is not. Please take the time to read through this document to ensure that your child’s shoes meet these expectations when we return to school for 2025.
Should you have any questions please contact your child’s relevant Head of House.
In addition, could you please ensure the following are adhered to:
- Extreme hairstyles or colourings not of a natural colour are not permitted. A reminder as per previous communication, any variation of the mullet style haircut is not permitted (some examples have been provided in the diagram below). Long hair is to be tied back and off the face and out of the eyes.
- A maximum of two earrings in each ear (small, simple studs or sleepers). No other visible body piercing is acceptable. All other piercings are to be left empty whilst in College uniform, including no clear plastic studs for new piercings.
- One simple ring may be worn.
- For neck jewellery, only a fine gold or silver chain with a small cross/cruciform/religious medal may be worn. Ankle and wristbands are not permitted.
- Make-up is not to be worn (including any type of foundation, eye shadow, eyeliner or mascara), and neither are false lashes, lash extensions or lash alterations/modifications.
- Only clear nail polish is acceptable; no false nails, shellac/gel/acrylic overlay or French tips.
- Skirts must be knee length (at a minimum touch the top of the knee cap when standing) or below (waistbands are not to be rolled).
- Sport shorts waistband must not be rolled.
- All buttons on blouses must be done up. Ties must reach blouse waistbands.
See the End of Year Letter for further information.
St Joseph's Parish
Christmas Eve
6pm and 8pm
Midnight Mass with Fr Michael Alcock
Christmas Day
8am at St Joseph’s
9am at St Camillus Bilambil
Reconciliation
Tuesday 17, Wednesday 18, Thursday 19, Monday 23, Tuesday 24
following 9:10am Mass until 10am
St Anthony's Parish
Christmas Vigil
Sts. Mary & Ambrose POTTSVILLE 6:00pm
St. Anthony’s KINGSCLIFF 6:00pm
Christmas Day
Sts. Mary & Ambrose POTTSVILLE 7:30am
St. Anthony’s KINGSCLIFF 9:00am
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
A great year of Learning at St Joseph's
It’s been a great year of learning. This week’s awards ceremony was a wonderful formality that highlighted the achievements of our students and reaffirmed the strength of our learning community at St Joseph's. We truly value how many parents made the effort to attend the assembly; it was great to celebrate your children's achievements with you. A list of award recipients can be found in this newsletter. We congratulate all award winners and nominees; we are very proud of the dedication, commitment and organisation that led to the achievement of these awards.
Final Weeks of Academic Focus
The last four weeks at the College were dedicated to preparing for examinations and assessments. While some stress was present, students demonstrated commendable focus and productivity during the exams. This experience is essential for building their comfort with exam conditions, ultimately contributing to their confidence in future assessments, including the HSC.
Enhancing Study Skills
Looking ahead, we recognise the need to improve study habits among students. Although performance in exams was strong, it is crucial that we work collaboratively to teach students effective note organisation and material condensation techniques. The Teaching & Learning team will prioritise this focus in 2025.
We will also emphasise the use of workbooks across all subjects and year groups. While laptops are valuable learning tools, generative writing—focused on idea synthesis rather than rote copying—will be encouraged across all subjects next year to enhance understanding and literacy skills. Staff development will support this initiative throughout 2025.
Addressing Literacy Among Boys
Next year, we will specifically address literacy skills among boys, as data indicates a national trend of declining performance in this area. To engage boys in reading and writing, we will introduce an all-boys English class in Year 10, which will follow the same curriculum but utilise pedagogical strategies tailored to this demographic.
HSC Results Overview
In addition to the awards ceremony, we are proud to announce the release of our HSC results. These results mark the end of an era for the HSC class of 2024 and we are immensely proud of all they have achieved. We wish them every success in their future endeavours and hope to hear from them as they achieve great things in their adult lives. Some of the key highlights from this year’s results include:
- All Rounders List: Stella Charles
- HSC Distinguished Achievers List (gaining at least one Band 6/E4):
- Stella Charles - Band 6 in: English Advanced, English Extension 1(E4), Legal Studies, Modern History, Society and Culture, Studies of Religion I
- Lucca Lambert - Band 6 in English Advanced, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education, Studies of Religion I; Band 5 Bio, 2023
- Saoirse Maxwell - Band 6 in Legal Studies & 2 x Band 5 results
- Phoebe McLaughlin - Band 6 in Drama & 4 x Band 5 results
- Madison Peisley - Band 6 in English Advanced & 5 x Band 5 results
- Sean Scott - E4 in English Extension 1 & 4 x Band 5 results
- Annabelle Shaw - Band 6 in Legal Studies & 4 Band 5 results
- Madeline Smith - Band 6 in English Advanced & English Extension 1 (E4), Legal Studies & 3 x Band 5 results
- Padraic Smith - Band 6 in Construction Examination
- Alexis Turley - Band 6 in Drama & 2 x Band 5 results
- Zoe Blundell - 4 x Band 5 results
- Evie Richardson - 4 x Band 5 results
- Octavia Robinson - 4 x Band 5 results
- Sarah Gabriel - 4 x Band 5 result
- VET
- 36% of the students in Yr 12 were enrolled in a VET qualification.
- School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships:
- Sami Kennedy completed her Hairdressing Cert III part of her Apprenticeship.
- Cooper Fitcher completed his Cert II in Construction Pathways, and is continuing his Carpentry Apprenticeship with Hammerhead Building.
- Luca Simon completed his Cert II in Construction Pathways Traineeship and is considering a number of different trade options from this point forward.
- Savannah Jarrett and Mia Jeffery are continuing their Fitness Certificate III to complete the qualification.
- Work Readiness Program
- 50% of students in the WRP have begun full time employment, apprenticeships or achieved university entrance. These include:
- Caitlin Smith: Bachelor of Nursing
- Kahlia Fraser: Bachelor of Nursing
- Mackenzie Wilson: Bachelor of Nursing
- Jalia Dubber: Bachelor of Nursing
- Ashton Riley: Electrical / Air Conditioning Apprenticeship
- Samantha Kennedy: Hairdressing Apprenticeship
- Wyatt Snart: Electrical Apprenticeship
Happy Christmas
Wishing you all a safe, happy and holy Christmas. May it be filled with family and friends, love and laughter. Travel safely. See you next year.
Mr Chris Mason
Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
Leader of Pedagogy
Study Skills Tips for December: Schoolwork During the Holidays - How to Balance Rest and Readiness
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 December's Study Skills Tips on Schoolwork During the Holidays, (click on the link provided, or see the flyer below).
Inclusion and Diversity
Updating Student Records – Term 1
As the school year comes to a close, we ask all parents to provide updated information regarding your child’s learning and medical needs to ensure we have the most current details for Term 1.
To maintain accurate records, we will be reviewing student files during Term 1, including updating assessments and key information related to your child’s needs.
If your child has any clinical assessments, medical diagnoses, or updates to existing information that the school does not yet have, please forward these details to our Administrator for Diversity & Inclusion. This will assist us in effectively managing your child’s daily and emergency health needs.
You can email the information to deborah.pirlo@lism.catholic.edu.au.
Thank you for helping us keep our records up to date. If you have any questions, please contact the school and ask for Ms. Amie Nugent at (07) 5524 9002, or email her directly at amie.nugent@lism.catholic.edu.au.
Thank you.
From the Diversity and Inclusion Team
Indigenous Yarns
Jingi Walla SJC community!
As we approach the end of the year, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on what has been another incredible year for Indigenous culture in our school community. The past months have been filled with growth, achievements, and memorable experiences, and we want to take a moment to celebrate all that we’ve accomplished together. From the construction, development and painting of our school yarning circle/prayer garden to enjoying the smiling faces of students and staff taking part in our first ever whole school NAIDOC Ngaligah Ngurrilah, it has been amazing the way our Joeys community embrace local Bundjalung culture.
This term in particular, our students demonstrated an excellent commitment to their studies, with many achieving personal bests across a variety of subjects. From the sciences to the arts, Term 4 has been a time of academic exploration and excellence.
We saw some impressive Year 12 performances and are incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication from Mahlie, Jalia, Lily, Noah, Xavier, Jake, Sam and Tom, our Year 12 graduates and we congratulate them on finishing their high school journey and wish them all the best for the future and hope they will always hold fond memories of their time at St Joey’s.
Another notable mention goes to our Year 11 students who took on new challenges in preparation for the HSC year ahead with special mention to Vrndi who will be our cultural voice in the senior SRC next year along with Junior reps Dakina, Darcy and Elise, we look forward to watching them grow and thrive in these roles. We would also like to congratulate all of our students for their continued commitment to improving their educational growth even through sometimes very tough personal challenges. Well done!!
Recently each Wednesday during week 4, 5 and 6 our Year 10 Indigenous students, Jordan, Kelis and Kyrone attended the Titans Deadly Future Program run by the one and only Preston Campbell. During this program they got to learn a lot about themselves, their future pathways and Identity and most importantly their culture. The following is a quote from one of the students; “I loved every second of it. To be able to learn how to dance was very special to me because that's something I've always wanted to do but I never had the people around me to be able to teach me. I thought it was amazing and I wish we could have days like these more often and I already can't wait for next year”.
Vrndi was also lucky enough to attend a Residential Indigenous Science Experience (RISE) camp at the University of Melbourne. During this camp they got to interact with scientific lecturers to learn more about the principles and real-world applications of advanced science, they took part in hands-on workshops, and heard presentations exploring current themes in STEM.
Vrndi received a Deadly t-shirt and some incredible science resources and met a bunch of inspirational First Nations scientists and students making waves in the STEM field. She also got to stay on campus like a University of Melbourne college student and made a whole bunch of new friends from across the country. Congratulations, Vrndi, for having the courage and enthusiasm to attend this camp.
Just a reminder to families that registration for the Marist father funding grant for all SECONDARY Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students is open now until the 21st of February 2025. Please see linked here the 2025 Marist Fathers Application form. Acceptance letters will be sent out soon after and reimbursement requests will be taken from the date the acceptance letter is sent.
Unfortunately, Mr Bailee Nicholls won’t be with us again next year. He has decided to move back to Brewarrina to connect with his family and be back on Country. It has been wonderful having Bailee with us this year and we will miss him, but we wish him all the best for his future back home, inspiring the young boys and girls out there.
With the year coming to a close, we want to express our gratitude to all of our students, staff, and families who have made 2024 such a memorable year. As we approach the holidays, we wish everyone a relaxing and enjoyable break. Term 1 of next year promises to be full of exciting new initiatives, with a focus on continued academic excellence and community engagement.
Lastly, thank you to all of our SJC community for your ongoing support, we wish you all a very Merry, Holy and Safe Christmas and a Happy New Year, have a wonderful holiday break.
Bugalbeh (Thankyou) and Good Blessings
Mrs Lexe Busbridge and Mr Bailee Nicholls
'Ocean Voices'
In Week 6, three students, Cooper Mackie, Darcy Busbridge and Matt Davies, attended an ‘Ocean Voices’ conference at Ballina high school. Here they were given the opportunity to engage with 10 mentors who all had a passion for the marine environment and a wealth of knowledge and experience in advocating for change for issues such as plastic pollution and waste management.
The students engaged in discussions with these mentors, including a member from the Ballina Shire Council, a professor at Southern Cross University, a journalist, a filmmaker, the CEO of ‘The Seabin,’ the CEO of the ‘Good Cup’ and the program manager for the Australian Marine Conservation Society, as well as with other like-minded students from local high schools.
The goal of ‘Ocean Voices’ is to provide an avenue for young people to recognise the issues that face the marine environment and to come up with solutions that can be implemented in our everyday lives. Through these discussions Cooper, Darcy and Matt were inspired to raise awareness about the importance of reducing the use of plastic for the protection of the marine environment and to put simple strategies into action like not buying single use plastic (such as water bottles, small chip packets, chocolate wrappers), recycling and ensuring food waste is disposed of in the correct bins.
Ballina High School also has an amazing aquaculture facility so the boys were able to have a tour of this as well.
Mrs Katie John
Science Teacher
Resource Centre
Fantasy Week (Week 7)
This week, we’re diving into the world of fantasy! Get ready for our Story Starter Lucky Dip, where you’ll pick a prompt and start creating your own magical tales—whether it’s a quest for treasure, a dragon’s secret, or an enchanted forest, the possibilities are endless. We’ll also have Fantasy Reading Starters, with a selection of must-read books to transport you to mythical worlds. And for those feeling creative, don’t miss the chance to Design Your Own Fantasy Book Cover. Use drawing or digital tools to create a cover for the fantasy novel of your dreams!
Christmas Fun & Kindness (Weeks 8-10)
As we approach the holiday season, join us for a series of festive activities! Get into the Christmas spirit by taking part in our Random Acts of Kindness challenge, where small, thoughtful gestures can make a big difference. We’ll also be crafting Christmas Cards, so come by and make your own personalized greetings. For a bit of festive fun, try your hand at our Word Finds and Cryptic Clues, filled with holiday-themed puzzles to keep your mind sharp.
Wishing all our students and families a Merry Christmas and a safe holiday.
Ms Mary Green
Teacher Librarian
Sports News
Congratulations!
Congratulations to Asha Meyer from RY7 who was recently invited to compete in the Australian ISKA Championships in Sydney for martial arts after winning gold at the Queensland championships. She competed on Sunday and took home 2 gold medals in Clash Sparring and Point Sparring and 1 bronze in Light Kick. Asha is now the Australian champion in her age group!!!
Well done Joe Hackers 5-a-side hockey team who went undefeated this term. Lots of fun!!
A huge congratulations to our incredible staff team on an outstanding mixed netball season! Their dedication, teamwork, and perseverance have been truly inspiring. While the outcome wasn’t what they hoped for, their passion and commitment in the face of adversity is admirable. Thank you for giving it your all—your spirit and effort have set an amazing example for our students. Congratulations to an incredible season and to bigger and better things ahead!
Sports Academy
Celebrating Excellence: Sports Academy Celebration of Success Evening
Last week, our school came together to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Sports Academy students at the 2024 Celebration of Success Evening. The night was a resounding success, showcasing not only the students' accomplishments in sport but also their dedication, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
The evening began with a warm welcome as families, teachers, and special guests gathered to recognise the incredible efforts of our Sports Academy students. A special highlight of the night was the dinner prepared by the students themselves, demonstrating their skills both on and off the field. The meal was a testament to their hard work and creativity, and it set the tone for a truly memorable night.
We were honoured to have two exceptional role models join us as special guests: Miss Jamie Stanton, SUNS AFLW player, and Miss Jaime Chapman, Titans NRLW player. Their presence and words of encouragement inspired both our students and guests, reminding us of the dedication and passion it takes to excel in sport and beyond. We extend our heartfelt thanks to them for sharing their time and insights with our community.
A huge thank you also goes to our families for their unwavering support of their students and the Sports Academy program. Your encouragement and commitment are invaluable, and your presence at the awards evening made it even more special.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards, recognising students who have excelled in various aspects of the program. Congratulations to our major award winners for 2024:
- Highest Level of Representative Sport: Elodie Campbell
- Ownership Award: Jarrah-Star Webb
- Belonging Award: Ciaran Lotz
- On & Up Award: Summer Barton
A special mention also goes to all the students who participated in the program this year. Your hard work, sportsmanship, and determination have been truly inspiring. Whether on the field, in training, or supporting your teammates, you have all contributed to the spirit and success of the Sports Academy.
We would also like to extend our gratitude to our sponsors for their generosity in donating gifts for our students. Special thanks to P3 Recovery Burleigh, RIGS Recovery Palm Beach, Woolworths (facilitated by Darren Skorupski), STRONG Pilates Tweed Heads, and PHYSiO PLACE Tweed Heads. Your support has made a meaningful impact and added to the success of the evening.
These awards celebrate not only athletic skill but also the values of ownership, belonging, and perseverance that are central to our Sports Academy.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making the evening a success. From the students and staff to the families and special guests, your support ensures that our Sports Academy continues to thrive and inspire. We look forward to seeing what our talented students achieve in the future as they continue to reach for greatness!
On & Up!
Sports Academy Team
Mrs Tutt, Mr Quinn, Mr Yager, Mr Bell & Mrs Bell
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.
School Student Travel
School student travel information for parents and students
School Travel Passes
Applications are now open for 2025 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 2025.
Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator . It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
Terms of Use
Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.
This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.
All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.