15 February 2018

Newsletter Articles

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

Over the last few weeks we have had several information evenings for parents across the school. I would like to thank the parents who came to these sessions and also our staff for their attendance and dedication to our students.

We were fortunate to have guest speaker Mr Christopher Oakes, Acting Deputy Principal at St Michael’s College, Merrimac and formally Head of Senior School at St Laurence’s College, Brisbane, give an informative presentation titled Surviving Senior School (A Practical Guide for Parents) to Senior School (Years 10, 11 & 12) parents. Mr Oakes discussed many of the key issues facing students today and outlined how parents can help them to have a successful and healthy time in Senior School. Topics covered anxiety and depression, internet and gaming addiction and pornography.

During his presentation Mr Oakes highlighted the fact that in cases where students are struggling they will seek help from their peers, their parents and then their teachers, usually in this order. A student’s peers, parents and teachers are most important when it comes to their support network.

A clear message for all parents in all the presentations is to know your children, share in their learning and work closely with school staff to ensure they are excelling at school and in life.

Equally important is that students, no matter what age, look out for each other. At St Joseph’s School, making the Mercy Values the lived experience of our students ensures they are doing just that.

God Bless

Andrew Kendall
PRINCIPAL

Mr Andrew Kendall with Mr Christopher Oakes who was a guest speaker last week at the Secondary Parent Information evening.

LEADER’S NEWS

Assistant Principal-Secondary: Linda Perrett

Last week three students were signed up to School Based Traineeships. Marley Haikiti will be working at Tobin Wines and completing a Certificate II Horticulture. Lindsay Swan, through a Certificate II Salon Assistant is preparing to help Jenni create at Hair of Distinction. St Joseph's School Year 1 and 2 students will see Amelia Fuller in their classes as she completes a Certificate III Education Support.

Our School Based Trainee and Apprentice Program continues to grow in numbers. Any students who are considering an apprenticeship or traineeship need to see Mrs Perrett who will assist in this process.

Assistant Principal-Primary: Sarah Yates

As the weeks and months stretch out ahead of us, there is a sense of anticipation on the Primary Campus as we wonder what each of us will make of the opportunities that lie ahead of us.

I can certainly guarantee that each of our learners will feel challenged at some point in the year. This is not necessarily a negative thing as it often allows those involved to develop further skills and dispositions which will be beneficial in many aspects of life – resiliency, problem solving, the opportunity to reflect and re-evaluate for example. Within the term ‘learners’, I include the teaching staff who, as well as implementing fully the Toowoomba Diocese Reading Strategy this year, will also be embarking on professional development related to extensive research into the most effective teaching for learning strategies. As a Lighthouse School for Visible Learning, we will be looking to refine what we do in order that the outcomes for students may be further enhanced.

I can also guarantee that each learner will experience success throughout this year. It may not always be in large steps and it probably won’t be the same as any other learner, but it will happen. It is not helpful to compare one student against another but what we can compare is where an individual student started and where they moved to within the time frame and whatever that growth may be, it should be celebrated. We will encourage the students to have a growth mindset and a belief that they can succeed. I have already witnessed this in the first week of this term, where two students excelled beyond their own expectations and it was a delight to see the satisfaction that moving out of your comfort zone and succeeding can bring. We have also welcomed the new Prep cohort to St Joseph’s and seen the confidence with which they have embraced their new surroundings.

What else can the students on the Primary Campus expect this year? Among other things they will be involved in learning opportunities that are relevant and personalised, they will have the opportunity to reflect the Mercy Values in supporting Faith in Action initiatives, they will deepen their understanding of what it means to be a good sportsperson, they will participate in cultural events, they will discover what it means to be part of a team and they will learn that relationships need to be nurtured. They can also expect that the staff on the Primary Campus will be supportive and assist the students to achieve their goals.

St Joseph’s School is a community which desires to assist all to be the best that they can be. Whether that be academically, spiritually, physically, emotionally or culturally, the staff will be doing whatever they can in 2018 to bring this to fruition. Exciting times lay ahead of us and we must be prepared to seize the moment.

Assistant Principal-Religious Education (APRE): Megan Mahoney

Last Sunday, Student Leaders, Joshua Mahoney, Ann-Mary Vincent, Natasha Petroccitto and I went to Toowoomba for the launch and induction of Project Compassion leaders. Mass was celebrated by Bishop Robert McGuckin and was held in St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Bishop Robert spoke about having to make some detours or corrections on the road during the Lenten season and ensure that we are welcoming and embracing the marginalised as Jesus did. Ann-Mary and Natasha were asked to do the offertory and all three received the Caritas candle to bring back to school and use to promote Project Compassion within the school.

Last Sunday, students enjoyed Mass celebrated by Bishop Robert McGuckin at St Patrick’s Cathedral Toowoomba.

SCHOOL NEWS

PREPS RECEIVE NEW HATS

All students are important at St Joseph’s School. However, the Prep cohort is the youngest and most vunerable of our students who need a little extra care and attention to allow them to immerse themselves into the schooling routine.

This year for the first time, the school has gifted each Prep student a legionnaire cap. The hats are bright yellow and will ensure they don’t get lost amongst all the other students.

“All the students are slowly transitioning into Prep with different feelings. Some are very keen and eager whilst others are still observing and finding their feet. Overall the students are all excited about beginning “big school,” Prep Teacher Mrs McNichol said. “The hats are another way for Preps to feel safe and protected.”

So far in the past few weeks, the students have been introduced to new routines and have begun to do their first learning lessons for the year. They have enjoyed inside and outside play and have made new friends.

The 2018 Prep students are easily visible with their bright yellow hats

INTRODUCING STAFF & THE STUDENT LEADERS

In the first newsletter of the School year, the new teachers were introduced as well as a reintroduction of the Leadership. Every fortnight, a staff member from both campuses will provide a profile of themselves to allow the school and wider community to familiarise themselves with the staff at St Joseph’s School. The school operates with approximately 50 staff members who all have a special role to play in the effective functioning of the school.

SUSAN PACE: Most of the work that I do is with learning support and as a Teacher Aide at the secondary campus but every now and then you may find me on the primary. I have worked at St Josephs for almost eight years. The most rewarding part of being a Teacher’s Aide is seeing the students that I helped through their school years grow into remarkable young adults.

AMANDA THOMPSON: Watching students’ progress from Prep to completion of schooling, the sense of community and our belief in educating the whole child are three main reasons I value my job teaching Year 3/4 at St Joseph’s School. I attended our secondary school in the 1990s and completed a Bachelor of Applied Science at the University of Queensland at the turn of the millennium. My first teaching position was in Roma teaching Year 8 before returning to the Stanthorpe district where I have taught across all primary and secondary year levels in some form or another. The majority of my time has been spent in the upper primary and lower secondary grades. I have been based at the Primary Campus for the last decade and I enjoy teaching all subjects but my particular passions are in the areas of mathematics, science and technologies (although don’t ask me to successfully build anything in Manual Arts). Teaching students of Year 3 and 4 is very rewarding as students are reaching a level of development which allows them greater awareness of school and schooling and more insight into how to be an active and effective learner. I enjoy being a part of their learning team, working collaboratively with parents and, of course, the main star-the student-to further improve their abilities and learnings across the course of the school year.

INTRODUCING SCHOOL CAPTAINS

At the end of each school year, six students are elected as Student Leaders. These Student Leaders choose a Mercy Value and lead by example to their fellow students. Each fortnight, the Student Leaders will be introduced and relay what their Mercy Value is and what their plans are for 2018 as a Student Leader.

My name is Ann Mary Vincent and I was elected as a School Captain for 2018 alongside Liam Hitchener and fellow Prefects; Hunter, Josh, Anika and Natasha. The Mercy Value I have chosen is Compassion. I believe compassion is a significant quality that allows us to help those who are suffering by showing kindness, sympathy and solicitude. Whether that be within our school or wider community. This year, I’m hoping to be an advocate for compassion, particularly through Project Compassion; by supporting Caritas in helping alleviate the suffering of those living in poverty and provide a just future. I would also like to be a guide for students by assisting them with any difficulties and overall providing chances for everyone to bond and connect as a school. Being a School Captain means having an opportunity to make positive changes within our school, to be a voice for students and create an enjoyable environment where everyone can achieve to the best of their ability. Next year, I plan to attend university and push towards achieving my long time goal to become a doctor of medicine. I look forward to working with my fellow leaders in embracing the challenges and joys of 2018.

My name is Liam Hitchener and I was elected as one of the 2018 School Captains. I have attended St Joseph’s since preschool and through the guidance of my parents have been heavily involved with the school since. I am greatly honoured to accept this position and look forward to working with students and staff from both campuses to make 2018 a year to remember for the school. My chosen Mercy Value this year is Respect which I am passionate to live out within our school and the wider community. As a School Captain I wish to ensure I bring out the best in all students including my fellow Year 12 seniors as we are role models to the younger students and the way in which we act at school directly influences their actions. In the years following 2018, I wish to attend university and study engineering with a goal of making it into the field of aerospace engineering. This year I look forward to working with Ann-Mar, my fellow School Captain as well as the four Prefects. I certainly feel that we, as a team can ensure anything we wish to achieve this year will be a success.

STUDENT LEADERS MEET WITH SOUTHERN DOWNS COUNCIL MEMBERS

Last Wednesday, Ann-Mary and Liam were invited to be interviewed by employees of the Southern Downs Council who are participating in the LGMA Australasian Management Challenge. They were asked questions about what they felt renewable resources, delivery of services and information delivery by Council would look like or they hoped would look like in thirty years’ time. This information will be made into a film as part of their participation in the LGMA Australasian Management Challenge. The students participated very well and had some great insight and initiatives into what Stanthorpe's future might look like and how best council can fulfil the needs of the Southern Downs Region.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC PROGRAM, SCHOOL BAND AND ST JOSEPH’S SCHOOL CHOIR

Since its inception a few years ago, many St Joseph’s students have enrolled with the Instrumental Music Program. Music Teachers, Mr David Ross and Mr Aaron Buchanan co-ordinate this program which is a fantastic opportunity for students to become immersed with music lessons which are held before and after school as well as during school hours. The school purchased a selection of musical instruments to give students variety. A hire fee is charged to parents. Students from both campuses are encouraged and welcome to join. For further information, refer to the permission form attached.

David Ross also has a range of second hand instruments for sale. Should you be interested, please contact David directly on 0417 195587.

Some of the students who are in the Instrumental Music Program have further extended themselves to join the School Band. The School Band made its debut at the St Joseph’s School Fete which was held in October 2015. After a smashing performance at the Fete, the School Band has gone from strength to strength. Last year the School Band kicked off the Annual Awards Night in November and played the National Anthem to invited guests, parents, caregivers, staff and students.

With a growing confidence, the School Band is keen to have more of a presence at school functions this year. The Band will begin performing in the coming weeks at the fortnightly whole school assemblies and will again feature at this year’s Awards Night event. “We are trying to add keyboard, glockenspiel, guitars and violins to the brass, woodwind and percussion. We are excited for the year ahead and looking forward to showcasing the School Band,” Mr Ross said. Band practice is held Tuesdays at 1pm. New members are welcome to join.

The St Joseph’s School Choir is also fast becoming a popular and exciting extracurricular activity at the school. Mrs Jo Barker organised a choir late last year when the school was approached by the Granite Belt Christmas Farm to perform at their annual Christmas event held in early December. The choir was formed with students who dedicated lunch times for their practice, and delighted the crowd with their performance. The Choir also performed at the Graduation Mass and Awards Night.

Students are gearing up once again this year and super keen to be actively involved. Practices have commenced which are held on Mondays and Wednesdays at lunch time. Mrs Barker is planning for the choir to perform at the Apple & Grape Busking Competition, Eisteddfod, Graduation and Awards Night as well as any other school function. New members are most welcome to join. Students can contact Mrs Barker for further information.

Some members of the St Joseph’s School Choir are eagerly attending practises

LIBRARY NEWS

The year is shaping up to be an exciting one as our school develops innovative reading, teaching and learning practices. The work of the school library and the role of Teacher Librarian is strongly influenced by these as well as new inroads into digital technology and information literacy. “As much as we enjoy engaging in new educational challenges, one of my favourite times of the day is being with students in the library at lunchtime,” Teacher Librarian Mrs Lesley Grant said.

Students across both campuses are very welcome to the library after their eating time, where they are provided with opportunities for games, study, reading and just plain hanging out. They choose their library at lunchtime for a variety of reasons. To mingle with others across year levels and campuses, to utilise resources that support creativity and social engagement, including craft supplies, chessboards, card games, construction equipment, some to finish work or study, other engage in online learning programs and many choose to chat, browse, read, borrow and relax. “For some students, the library can be a safe haven, or a peaceful alternative when the busyness of the day may be somewhat overwhelming,” Mrs Grant added.

SECONDARY TUCKSHOP IS BACK ON

The Secondary Tuckshop began operating again yesterday. Ms Kath O’Connor has taken on the role of Secondary Tuckshop Convenor with tuckshop operating every Wednesday. Ms O’Connor enjoyed her first day yesterday preparing meals from local produce and serving these delights to students and staff.

To acknowledge Ash Wednesday, students were treated with fish, chips and salad, vegetarian pasta bake and home-made potato wedges. Students were also excited with the chocolate cupcakes at morning tea that celebrated Valentine’s Day. Drinks and chips will also be available from the tuckshop.

A Parent Paperwork was sent to families seeking assistance from one parent each Wednesday. Year 10 student Anna Calvisi will also be assisting Ms O’Connor each week from 9:00am-1:00pm.

A change has also been made to the baking for tuckshop. Each week a Pastoral Care class will be rostered on for baking. This will enable students to work together in a team to ensure at least four items are baked each week. Students can seek assistance from their parents for this. A roster has been sent to PC teachers for them to organise their class for this baking.

PROJECT COMPASSION

Classes have now received their Project Compassion boxes. Most classes received a “giant” box. “Caritas sent me eighteen giant boxes and only four smaller ones, so I’m guessing it’s an added incentive to try to fill them over the weeks of Lent,” APRE Mrs Megan Mahoney said.

Students are encouraged to pop their loose change or change from Tuckshop into these boxes. They can also forego a special treat and put the money in the box.

During the Lenten season, School Captain Ann-Mary Vincent will be promoting and working with students around the work of Project Compassion and the theme for this year which is “For a Just Future”.

Project Compassion boxes are in every classroom during the Season of Lent

SHROVE TUESDAY AND ASH WEDNESDAY

Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday and begins the season of the fasting period of Lent. The origin of the word Shrove can be traced back hundreds of years to the Middle Ages. On the Tuesday before the beginning of Lent, people would traditionally eat up all the “rich foods” in their homes that they were going to give up during the period of Lent. This meant that food like eggs, milk and fat were all mixed together with some flour to make a batter. When cooked the result was pancakes.

These days Shrove Tuesday is much better known as Pancake Day. Students from both campuses enjoyed Pancake Day with funds raised being for Project Compassion.

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent. It takes its name from a custom that dates back hundreds of years and is still carried out today. In this custom a Priest draws the shape of a cross on the foreheads of the people in the Church on that day, using the ashes of a burnt palm cross mixed with a little oil.

Students on both campuses enjoyed Pancake Day

SECONDARY SPORTS NEWS

Despite the severe change in weather last Thursday, from hot and humid to cool with the threat of rain, the St Joseph’s Secondary Swimming Carnival went ahead. Student who participated in the swimming events enjoyed a great day in the pool and those who came along to support their peers, also enjoyed a fun-filled day watching and cheering on.

As the program neared the end, and with only two points between McAuley and Davadi, the relays made all the difference. McAuley House was declared Champion House with Davadi House claiming victory for House Spirit.

Year 12 student Susie Cobon finished off her day nicely by breaking three records. Susie broke her own 50m Freestyle record and 50m Breastroke and 100m Open Girls Freestyle, both held since 2014 by Anna Yates.

As the weather declined, the day’s program was completed with rain only making an appearance for the presentations. Congratulations to the Age Champions and Runner-Ups as well as to all the students who participated and gave their best throughout the day.

REMINDERS AND UPDATES

P&F NEWS

The P&F would like to offer our immense thanks and gratitude to all the parents and staff who worked at the Can Bar over the 2 days at the Show. The weather wasn’t the best but that didn’t stop the community getting out and supporting our local Show. A big thank you also to Sarah Yates for taking the time to do up the roster this year.

The next P&F event will be the Trivia Night at the end of April. Dust off your fluoro leg warmers and start practicing your disco moves as we are going “Back to the 80’s.” It will be on Saturday 28th April kicking off at 7pm, so start getting your teams together as it will be a fantastic night of fun, frivolity & of course, Trivia!

Our first meeting of the year, which is also our AGM will be held on Tuesday 27th February at 7pm in the School Library. We would like to invite all our parents to come along, as these meetings are always a very good opportunity to hear the inside story on what’s happening at the school and also what future plans may be getting put in place. It’s also a great chance to have your say, ask questions and get to know other parents too. There will be positions on the Executive Committee that will be vacated, so if you would like to be a part of the team that helps contribute to the school’s resources we would love to see you there.