16 August 2024 - Newsletter (Vol 41 No 12)
- Principal's Message
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- Year 9 Mass at St Augustine's Parish
- English - Bell Shakespeare Company
- Visual Arts
- Languages
- Sports Corner
- Marine Studies - Heron Island
- The Career Path
- Embrace Kids
- Seasons for Growth
- National Week of Action against Bullying and Violence
- Office News
- We're Hiring
- P&F Meeting
- HSC Major Works Showcase Evening
- Vinnies Winter Appeal
- St John Paul Day 2024
- Father's Day Breakfast
- Study Skills Handbook - Proofing your Assignments
- Parent Webinar - Breaking Point presented by Dr Justin Coulson
- Parent Webinar - Building Relationships
- AMEP TAFE NSW Volunteer Tutor Program
THE FEAST OF THE ASSUMPTION
This week, on the 15 August, the Catholic Church around the world celebrated the Feast of the Assumption. This solemnity holds special importance for Catholic schools like ours, reflecting deeply on the values and traditions that guide us.
Understanding the Feast
The Feast of the Assumption commemorates the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken up into Heaven body and soul at the end of her earthly life. This profound event highlights Mary’s special role in salvation history and her close relationship with God. For Catholics, it’s a day of gratitude and reflection on her example of faith and obedience.
Why It Matters to Catholic Schools
In Catholic schools, the Feast of the Assumption is more than a religious observance; it’s an opportunity to deepen our understanding of our faith and inspire our school community. Here’s why this feast is significant:
- Role Model of Faith: Mary’s life exemplifies dedication, humility, and trust in God. By celebrating the Assumption, we are reminded of the virtues she embodied—qualities that we strive to cultivate in our students. Her unwavering faith serves as a powerful model for us all.
- Community Celebration: The Assumption brings our school community together in a shared experience of faith. Whether through Mass, prayer services, or special activities, it strengthens our bonds and fosters a sense of unity and purpose.
- Educational Integration: The feast provides a unique opportunity to integrate religious education with our academic curriculum. Lessons about the Assumption can enhance students’ understanding of Catholic doctrine and history, enriching their overall educational experience.
- Inspiration for Service: Mary’s example encourages us to live out our faith through acts of service and compassion. As a Catholic school, we are called to put our values into action, helping others and making a positive impact in our community.
Celebration at Our School
This year, we marked the Feast of the Assumption with a special Mass in the College Hall, where students and staff came together to honour Mary and reflect on her significance. I’ve often spoken to the College community about the letter ‘M’ on our College Crest and Mary’s importance in the life of St. Pope John Paul II.
Let us remember that the Feast of the Assumption is not just a day of celebration, but a reminder of the strength and grace that Mary’s life represents. May it inspire us all to live with faith, hope, and a commitment to serving others.
God bless
Term 3 is a real highlight in our calendar when it comes to Mission. Last week some of our Year 8 students participated in the Festa Christi retreat, which was a 2 day retreat held in Bonville focussing on ‘walking in another person’s shoes’, while this week our Year 10 students travelled up to Tyalgum Ridge Retreat, our first time to visit this awesome facility. Then on Thursday this week, we were fortunate to celebrate Mass with Father Joe for the Assumption of Mary which, apart from every Sunday of the year, is one of two “Holy Days of Obligation” (the other being Christmas Day). Next week our ministry classes (along with 600 other students from across the Diocese!) are looking forward to taking part in SHINE 2024, which features a range of keynote speakers, live music by Wildfire and breakout sessions. There sure is a lot happening, and it’s wonderful to see our students and staff engaging so deeply in their faith.
Pope Francis, in Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), reminds us that students are more likely to follow those who are authentic witnesses of the faith, saying, "People prefer to listen to witnesses: they ‘thirst for authenticity’... We need to be these authentic witnesses for our students, helping them encounter Christ in their daily lives. Our retreat program at SJPC offers a profound opportunity for our staff to share their faith with our students, which is crucial in guiding our young people on their spiritual journey.
My sincere gratitude goes to Mr Boshier, Mrs Le Mesurier, Mrs de Byl and Mr Sultana for attending & facilitating at Festa Christi and the 15 staff who joined Year 10 on retreat: Mrs Sawtell, Mr Abbotts, Mrs Maybury, Ms Reeves, Mrs Brown, Mrs Nagra, Ms Hardingham, Ms Marshall, Ms Mills, Mr Druzinec, Mr Hewitt, Mr Gregson, Mr Coster, Mr McGorry and Mr Poidevin. It’s important to recognize that these events require a significant commitment from our staff, who give up time with their families to be there for our students. Without their dedication and willingness to serve, these meaningful experiences simply wouldn’t be possible.
Leanne Gennat
Assistant Principal - Mission
At our College Assembly next week I plan to address the students on the link between leadership of Christ and the Emmaus Project. The following is a link to my address. Leadership - College Assembly
“Raising Independent Kids"
Recently I read an article from “Raising Independent Kids" and would like to share some of their thoughts. As parents we are also leaders. Any parent who wonders about what it takes to be a “good parent” must answer a simple question: Do you want to be a leader or a boss? A boss’ primary role is management. A leader empowers, inspires, shows the way forward and makes it their business to connect with their staff every day. Good parents make great leaders, but being a successful leader is no easy task. Great leaders and great parents know that strong relationships must be founded on good communication. Research suggests that having clear and appropriate expectations of your child largely influences their behaviour and their educational outcomes. Great parents and great leaders inspire. Great leaders inspire and motivate others, so do great parents. We now know that children learn how to react to different situations by watching us. Great parents and great leaders are also great cheerleaders. Your child needs to know that you’ve noticed when they are doing a good job, even when (especially when) that progress is slow and painful. Great parents and great leaders focus on building trust in their relationships. Like great leaders, great parents care about building relationships built on trust. When it comes to parenting, this is more than just being able to trust your child; they too need to be able to trust you and to count on you. Great parents and great leaders are not omnipresent. Overparenting can make them less confident in their ability to succeed, decrease the likelihood that they will take up leadership roles, and thus prevent them from developing problem-solving skills and learning necessary life lessons.
We have entered the nomination period for leadership at the College for 2024. Our students have been asked to think carefully who they feel would make the best student leaders of our College for the next twelve months. When being asked to consider their leaders they should be looking at fellow students who exhibit confidence, responsibility, integrity, empathy, and communication skills. Please encourage your child to nominate for a leadership position, for without them the idea of student voice just becomes that …. an idea alone.
Until next time:
Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
Merit Awards
Below are our current Distinction Award recipients so as to recognise student efforts not just at Assemblies but also within our Community throughout the year.
SJPC Merit Award Recipients
|
Year 7 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Year 8 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Term 3 - Week 3 |
Year 7 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Year 8 |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
 Distinction Award |
Study Skills
Learn more about the ‘managing stress’ resources through the units on www.studyskillshandbook.com.au . Our College access details are:
School’s Username – stjohnpaul
School’s password – 89success
In addition, our subscription to Elevate Education may assist in this area.
This online platform contains resources and useful study tips that all SJPC students will find effective. We encourage them to access this Student Portal and try some of the strategies. Students have the password to this site. The password can also be found on the Curriculum Noticeboard.
AMDG
Assistant Principal
Learning and Teaching
Year 7
Together, we can make a difference
As the Year 7 Leader of Student Wellbeing, I am pleased to share with you the most recent pastoral experience our students have had within our St John Paul College community. This week, our Year 7 students participated in a significant and thought-provoking presentation on the topic of racism, led by our Indigenous Education Workers, Aunty Vicki Filewood and Tahlia Quin.
Aunty Vicki, a respected member of our local Aboriginal community, brought her unique perspective and deep cultural knowledge to the forefront, addressing the issue of racism within a school context. The presentation was both enlightening and challenging, encouraging our students to reflect on their own attitudes and behaviours while fostering a sense of empathy and understanding.
The presentation began with Aunty Vicki sharing her personal experiences and the broader historical context of racism in Australia. She emphasised the importance of recognising and respecting the rich cultural heritage of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the need for all of us to stand against discrimination in any form. Through stories, games centred scenarios and powerful messages, Aunty Vicki and Tahlia helped our students understand the impact of racism not only on individuals but on our school community as a whole.
One of the key takeaways from the presentation was the idea that racism is not just about overt acts of discrimination but also about the subtle, everyday actions and words that can contribute to a culture of exclusion. Aunty Vicki and Tahlia urged our students to be mindful of their language, attitudes, and actions and to become allies in the fight against racism.
As a school, St John Paul College is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and respected. This presentation by Aunty Vicki was a vital step in that direction, reinforcing our school’s values and our dedication to promoting equality and justice.
We encourage all parents and guardians to continue this conversation at home, exploring the themes discussed during the presentation and supporting your children in becoming active participants in building a more inclusive community.
Thank you to Aunty Vicki and Tahlia for her wisdom and guidance, and to our Year 7 students for their respectful and engaged participation. Together, we can make a difference.
Year 7 Leader of Student Wellbeing
Year 8
At Wednesday’s Year Assembly in the Theatre students were introduced to the concept of Body Image and Eating Disorders and how we can identify if we are at risk. We watched a testimony and looked at some statistics. We then watched a documentary in the Hall on Body Image during periods 1 and 2. Students were well engaged and well behaved earning themselves a Chuppa Chup!
Our Best All Rounders for the last couple of weeks were James Lynn from 8E and India Parkin from 8D who both earned a $5 canteen voucher. Congratulations!!
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Finally, to all the students who received Distinction and Commendation awards over the last fortnight there are just too many of you to list so congratulations on such a fine achievement and keep up the great work!
Year 8 Leader of Student Wellbeing
Year 9
Year 9 Pastoral Day: Building Respect and Cohesion with Michael Fitzpatrick
Our Year 9 students gathered for a transformative Pastoral Day at the Coffs Harbour Racecourse last week, focused on fostering respectful relationships, building a more cohesive peer group, and making better choices across both the classroom and community. The event, led by the ever-inspiring Michael Fitzpatrick, provided our students with valuable insights and practical tools to navigate the complexities of adolescence. Not to mention discovering some new superstar singers and dancers.
Respectful Relationships
The day began with interactive sessions on the importance of respectful relationships. Guided by Michael, who has been visiting our school for over 20 years, students explored what respect means in different contexts—whether with friends, family, or teachers—and learned practical ways to show respect in their daily interactions. Through discussions and activities, students gained a deeper understanding of how respect is fundamental to trust and harmony in all relationships.
Becoming a More Cohesive Group
The next part of the day focused on group cohesion. Year 9 students participated in team-building exercises that emphasised communication, collaboration, and empathy. Under Michael's expert facilitation, these activities highlighted the importance of working together and supporting one another, both in and out of the classroom. By the end of the session, students not only felt closer as a group but also understood the value of unity and inclusivity in creating a positive school environment.
Making Better Choices
The day also addressed the crucial topic of making better choices at school when it comes to others. Students engaged in thought-provoking discussions about the impact of their decisions on themselves and others. Michael's decades of experience working with young people shone through as he encouraged students to reflect on how their behaviour in the classroom and the wider school community can contribute to a positive learning environment.
They were also asked to recognise traits in others that they felt were what everyone in the group could focus on moving forward. By considering the shining abilities of others, students were inspired to take responsibility for their choices and strive to make decisions that reflect their best selves.
A Day of Reflection and Growth
As the day drew to a close, students had the opportunity to reflect on what they had learned by participating in a time-honoured reconciliation process and the peaceful setting provided the perfect backdrop for this moment of introspection. Many students expressed that they left the day feeling more connected to their peers, more aware of their role in fostering respect, and more committed to making positive choices in their daily lives.
The Pastoral Day was an overall success, leaving our students better prepared to navigate the challenges of school life with respect, cohesion, and a sense of responsibility. We are incredibly grateful to Michael Fitzpatrick, whose dedication to our school community over the past 20 years has made a lasting impact on generations of students. We look forward to seeing how our Year 9 students apply these valuable lessons in the months to come.
Year 8 Leader of Student Wellbeing
Bell Shakespeare Company
In Term 2, students at SJPC had the great opportunity to take part in a Bell Shakespeare presentation. Years 8 and 10 were introduced to the rich language that comes from Shakespeare's plays and explored the complex themes and characters that have made his work engaging to all audiences.
The vivacity and talent of the performers kept the students engaged and entertained throughout each of the two sessions. Students and teachers were asked to take part in a scene from Hamlet to highlight the way drama and performance can bring language to life. For Year 8 students, about to select electives, this experience also gave them a taste of the world of drama and an exciting introduction to Shakespeare.
Siobhan McCosker
Leader of Learning - English
Vicki Foggiato
Leader of Learning - Visual Arts
Sasebo Sister City Visit
This year has seen the re-introduction of the bi-annual Youth exchange between Coffs Harbour schools and schools in Sasebo, Japan. Sasebo is Coffs Harbour’s sister city and the relationship between the two cities has been ongoing for the past 50 years.
In Week 2, a group of 5 students and 1 teacher arrived from Haiki Middle School in Sasebo. The students were hosted by 5 SJPC students, who will visit Japan in December as part of the reciprocal exchange program. These students ranged in age from 13-15 and stayed with the Harrison, White, Wilby, Hunter and Henry families.
Over the week, the Japanese students were quickly shown the Australian way of life and exposed to the wonderful welcoming community we have here. They enjoyed various activities from a surfing lesson at Park Beach to a visit to Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary to some fun at the Big Banana as well as visits to surrounding beaches and country towns. While at school they took part in various classes with their host brother and sisters.
The bonds that have developed between these 5 Japanese students and the 5 SJPC families as well as their friends will last a lifetime. The issues of distance and language were no barrier to these students making solid friendships and ensuring that when our students go to Japan in December they will continue to deepen these connections.
Leader of Learning - Languages
SJPC Athlete Spotlight
Lincoln Henry
Lincoln Henry from Year 10 is a very talented athlete who displays a great passion for track and field. Starting in Little Athletics, Lincoln pursued his favourite events of hurdles and triple jump in particular. As a regular SJPC Athletics Age Champion, Lincoln has gone on to represent the College and Diocese as an athlete for the past 4 years. He has produced some wonderful results such as a Silver Medal in 100m Hurdles, Silver Medal in Long Jump and Bronze Medal Triple Jump at NSWCCC Championships. Most notably he was also awarded NSWCCC 3rd Place Age Champion in 2022. We can’t wait to see Lincoln representing Australia, maybe at the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane!
Bill Turner Cup
On Monday 5 August, our Bill Turner Cup boys competed in Round 5 of the competition. Our opponents, from Great Lakes College, Tuncurry were skilled and determined. Our boys were outstanding throughout the match finishing 3-3 at the end of normal time. Extra time, golden goal and drop-off was not enough to separate the teams. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to overcome the penalty shootout, losing 5 -4. The boys should be very proud of achieving Area Winners for 2024.
Thank you to coach Damien Wood and manager Matt Hiddlestone who stepped in for Mr Louis Van Dartel on the day.
Bill Turner Trophy
Our girl's team will participate in Round 6 of the Bill Turner Trophy at Leisure Park on Tuesday 20 August and the semi finals on Wednesday 21 August. Kick off on Tuesday will be 12pm. For those who would like to watch from home, there is a live stream of the event through Kommunity TV. An instruction sheet is attached.
There is also a write up in the daily Telegraph about the event, should families like to know more.
Daily Telegraph live stream Bill Turner Cup and Trophy
AFL Junior Schools Cup
On Wednesday 7 August our Junior boys and girls AFL teams competed in the preliminary round of the NSW AFL Schools Cup competition. Both teams preformed well and a full recap can be found in the article from Mr Tim Davis. Congratulations to both teams and good luck to the boys who progress to the Regional Finals at Sawtell on Tuesday 27 August.
Junior Boys AFL
The Junior Boys Aussie Rules team had a solid tournament progressing through to the next round. After starting slowly the boys come together as a solid team Coffs High in a close game earlier in the day as well as a formidable win over Bishop Druitt during the final game of the day where the boys piled on 5 unanswered goals in the first half that stunned the opposition.
Most pleasing was the boy's sportsmanship and willingness to listen, learn and do the job required to benefit the team.
Although all played well a couple of notable mentions must go to a few players who stood out. Levi Newton, who was like ‘a bull’ on the field, attacking the ball relentlessly and even kicking a long bomb goal that he claims was from outside 50m! Fletcher O’Sullivan and Max McKeon were tight in defense, never giving up, strong on their feet and provided stability under pressure. Busby Hibberd never stopped working hard all day, played in the midfield without getting a rest and his clean hands and work ethic proved invaluable. Harper Landrigan was also impressive, with limited exposure to Aussie Rules he is developing into quite a good ruckman but most impressive was his willingness to work hard to turn the ball over when not in possession and to physically compete when the ball was in dispute. Other notable contributors included Ignatius Biddle who did a tagging job on the ever dangerous Guthrie from Coffs, Rookie Noah Kennedy who got better with each game and Archie Foy who ‘threw his big rig around’ and took some great marks to set up some forward thrusts.
Thanks to Mr Marle, Ms McAra and Mr Furey for supporting the SJPC Aussie Rules, looking forward to the next round and continuing to improve as a team and to grow this great Australian Sport.
Junior Girls AFL
The Junior girls enjoyed a great day out at the AFL Gala day. Many of the participants were experiencing competitive AFL for the first time. After losing their first two games narrowly to Toormina and Jetty, they were able to come away with a strong win against Woolgoolga in their final match. Congratulations to all the girls on their fantastic attitude and commitment to improving throughout the day.
Coach Kurt Marle
NSW Netball Cup Regional Finals
On Thursday 8 August, 5 of our netball teams ventured to Port Macquaire to participate in the North Coast Regional Finals of the NGS Super Netball Schools Cup. With 3 boys teams and 2 girls teams, SJPC was a dominant force on the day.
The 7/8 boys improved massively over the day. They got off to a slow and difficult start playing the eventual winners first up, but as they found their groove, they demonstrated a high level of skill in attack and defence and finished the day on 3rd.
There were two teams in the 7/8 girls division who were fortunately in different pools throughout the day. The Blue team played some outstanding netball, winning all but one game in the Pool matches, while the White team went through undefeated. This meant the two teams met over in the semi-final cross over. The game was hard fought with White eventually pulling away for a narrow win. Blue team finished in equal 3rd place. White went on to meet MacKillop in the Final and lead up until the last 2 minutes, when Port was able to equalise and get ahead winning by 1 goal. The White team are Runner Up Champions on the North Coast Region!
Our Year 9 boys team competed hard during the day and made their opposition work hard for their wins. Our boys were able to turn the ball over and were dynamic in the shooting circle. However, the speed which they tried to play the game meant that errors cost them dearly at crucial moments, giving up leads in all of their games. They were exemplary in their effort and behaviour on and off the court.
The Year 10 boys team were outstanding all day. Their supreme athletic ability and determined attitude saw them all the way through to the Grand Final against St Joseph’s Regional. The boys were on form, coming away with a strong win and placing 1st in the North Coast Region. The boys now travel to Sydney to compete in the Finals of the Netball Cup in November.
A massive thank you to all the officials, coaches and umpires who help in the lead up and throughout the day. Thank you to Lila Smith, Mrs Lynn Brockmann and Mrs Louise Maybury who accompanied the teams on the day.
Mountain Bike Competition
SJPC competed in the Rocky Trail Academy schools event on Friday 16 August. The team consisted of 21 riders across the Year 7/8 and Year 9/10 divisions.
Term 4 Sport Selections
Sport selections for Year 9 and 10 sport in Term 4 will occur on Monday 19 August. A email has been sent home to all families this past week about the selection process. Students will select their sport during school time at 9.05am. Please note the dates:
Coming Up - Term 3 & 4 2024
| Term 3 |
|
Tues 20 August |
Bill turner Trophy Round 6, Leisure Park |
|
Wed 21 August |
Bill Turner Trophy Semi finals, Leisure Park |
| Tuesday 27 August |
AFL Boys Junior Schools Cup Regional Finals, Sawtell |
| Thursday 29 August |
Girls and Boys Rugby 7’s, Coffs Harbour (new date) |
|
Monday 2 September |
Diocesan Athletics, CEX Stadium Coffs Harbour |
| Monday 2 - 4 September |
Bill Turner Trophy State Finals, Lake Macquarie |
| Monday 9 - 10 September |
All Schools Basketball, Open Girls, Hills Basketball Stadium |
| Tuesday 17-18 September |
Rugby 7's State Finals, Venue TBC |
| Term 4 |
| Monday 14 - 16 October |
NSWCCC Boys 9/10 Basketball, Penrith (7/8 to be confirmed) |
| Tuesday 22 October |
Diocesan Touch Football, Port Macquarie |
| Friday 25 October |
Diocesan Volleyball, Sportz Central |
| Tuesday 29 October |
NSW AFL Junior Schools Cup Finals, Sydney |
| Sunday 3 - 5 November |
NSWCCC Girls 9/10 Basketball, Bankstown |
| Thursday 9 - 12 November |
Australian Schools Futsal 13s and 14s girls, Brisbane |
| Monday 13 - 14 November |
NSW Netball Cup State Finals 9/10 Boys, Sydney |
| Thursday 14 November |
Diocesan Senior Waterpolo, Alstonville |
| Tuesday 19 November |
Diocesan Netball, Grafton |
| Thursday 21 November |
Diocesan Junior Waterpolo, Alstonville |
Leader of Sport
Thirty two Marine Studies students have just returned from an extraordinary week of diving and exploring the reefs and ecosystems of Heron Island. Each day started at 6am, with all kids snorkeling out to the wreck to swim with an abundance of sharks, rays, turtles and a myriad of other amazing creatures and organisms.
After breakfast, we would then load up the boats and head out to the reef rim to see more of the incredible coral habitats found on the Great Barrier Reef. Half of the students were lucky enough to dive with a 5 metre wide manta ray. An experience that will not be quickly forgotten! Others came face to face with a large reef octopus who departed suddenly in a cloud of ink. Most swam with a loggerhead turtle who may have been 100 years old. Another highlight occurred as a panicked school of rabbit fish mistook our students for sharks and beached themselves in fright during our night reef walk.
This year at the research station we were blessed to have world leading shark expert Aaron Hasenei show and explain his research into epaulette sharks and how they might adjust to a changing climate.
I am very proud of how this group behaved during this trip. I am also very grateful to our wonderful staff who worked very long hours to ensure that this expedition was safely and successfully conducted.
This expedition has provided our students with a wealth of educational knowledge and experience. But perhaps it is those fleeting moments that will leave the most lasting impression. When you look eye to eye with a large alien beast, something magic happens.
Toby Waters
Teacher
TVET Courses in 2025
Students in Year 10 or 11 who are considering choosing a TVET course in 2025 should pop into the Careers Room and have a chat with Mr Corsalini about the courses that are on offer and to discuss the application process and the application deadlines.
New Surveying programs: Diploma and Associate Degree
For further details, head to the degree pages here:
Newcastle Uni Diploma in Surveying
Newcastle Uni Associate Degree in Surveying
Are you looking for a summer job?
Exciting opportunity for the upcoming summer season!! @cityofcoffsharbour Lifeguards are looking for junior summer casual lifeguards to help keep our beautiful beaches safe. As many of you have already rescued people from the surf, it's a fab opportunity to enhance those valuable skills. Scan the QR for all the details.
The UNSW Rural Clinical Campus Coffs Harbour 2024 - 2025 Medicine Mentorship Program
This is a unique and invaluable opportunity for motivated students entering Year 12, 2025 who have a demonstrated interest to pursue study in the field of Medicine. Successful applicants will gain insight into the Medicine application process, UCAT preparation, life as a Medical student and opportunities for a career as a Medical Professional. This program is now being offered to all local high schools and is anticipated to be highly competitive.
Students must be able to commit to attending The UNSW Rural Clinical School Campus twice per term, on Wednesdays at 4 – 5:30pm.
Applicants are required to address the following selection criteria in 600 words or less:
- Commitment and motivation to study Medicine, particularly in regional and rural settings
- Notable academic and/ or extra-curricular achievements
- What they hope to get out of the mentoring program
Applications close Friday 23 August 2024
Please email your application to h.nevell@unsw.edu.au
Dr Helen Nevell, Lecturer & Director
Mid North Coast Regional Training Hub (Coffs Harbour)
School of Clinical Medicine | UNSW Medicine & Health
Rural Clinical Campus | Coffs Harbour
Police Recruiting Open Day
A group of Year 11 students recently attended the Police Recruiting Open Day at the Coffs Harbour Police Station. It was highly beneficial for those considering a career in law enforcement. It provided a unique opportunity to meet current officers, ask questions, and gain insights into the daily responsibilities and challenges of the job. The students learnt about the recruitment process, physical and educational requirements, and potential career paths within the force. Additionally, it allowed them to network with other candidates, explore different specialised units, and experience a glimpse of police culture. This firsthand experience will help the students make informed decisions regarding their future careers paths.
Paul Corsalini
Careers Adviser
This week, Year 7 and 8 students were fortunate enough to attend a screening of Embrace Kids, a film initiated by 2023 Australian of the Year, Taryn Brumfitt. The Embrace Kids film is an energetic collection of stories, interviews, music and live action from young people and famous friends alike, exploring body image, bullying, gender identity, disability, advocacy, representation and diversity. The film also explores the effects of the media, especially social media, and helps young people recognise stereotypes and unhealthy habits.
We are so proud of our students' behaviour throughout the screening and their positive response to the film and its many messages. Our aim is to educate students to improve self-acceptance, celebrate diversity and differences and be more inclusive and less judgemental. Of course the film in no way challenges the need for us to maintain optimal health and fitness and a healthy relationship with food, take care with our appearance and personal hygiene, and even add some glamour on occasion but it asks us to make decisions for the right reasons; not make these decisions from feelings of inadequacy. We are enough, just as we are! We encourage families to share messages from the film at home.
Thanks to Maree McKelvie and Talia Saban for organising this valuable screening opportunity.
Dear Parents and Carers,
Everyone is affected by change and loss at some time in their lives. At St John Paul College, we recognise that when changes occur such as separation, divorce, death, school transitions and natural disasters students may benefit from learning the skills to manage these changes effectively. To support students who are facing these and other challenges, we are offering an education program called Seasons for Growth, which will commence in Term 4. The program is an opportunity to learn with a small group of peers who have experienced similar issues.
Seasons for Growth is facilitated in small groups of up to 7 participants and is based on research that highlights the importance of social support and the need to practise new skills to cope effectively with change and loss. The program focuses on building skills such as how to manage feelings, problem-solving, decision-making, effective communication, and developing peer support networks. Participation in the program can promote improved self-esteem and self-confidence as well as giving children the opportunity to find their own voice amid change.
If you think your child/children would enjoy joining the Seasons for Growth program, we encourage you to talk to him/her about it. Seasons for Growth will run for eight weeks, and each weekly session is approximately 45 minutes. We are pleased to be able to offer this successful program and we are confident that it will be a valuable learning experience for those involved. If you feel the Seasons for Growth Program would suit your child/ren, please register them by emailing Talia Saban at talia.saban@lism.catholic.edu.au or Bradley Poidevin at bradley.poidevin@lism.catholic.edu.au.
Please note that depending on the numbers of students nominated, not all applicants may be placed in a group Term 4, but we will continue to run the groups in Term 1, 2025 and beyond.
Brad Poidevin and Talia Saban
School Counsellor / Student Wellbeing Officer
Dear Parents and Carers
St John Paul College again participated in the Bullying No Way: National week of action, 12 to 16 August 2024.
Bullying No Way Week is a commitment being made by thousands of schools and supporters across the country. It provides an opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to bullying prevention. It gives us an opportunity to connect with students, staff and school communities to implement workable solutions to prevent bullying.
The new hero colour for the campaign is purple – symbolising peace, strength and empowerment to take a stand against bullying behaviour.
The theme for this year's campaign is Everyone belongs. This theme highlights the importance of creating a sense of belonging and inclusion for students.
“Positive school climates that value diversity and inclusion can foster a sense of belonging and provide a protective factor against negative peer relationships and reduce bullying.” (Australian Education Research Organisation 2023).
For more information about Bullying No Way Week and bullying prevention, visit the Bullying No Way website.
During the week all students engaged in discussions and activities aimed at promoting empathy, understanding, and respect for diversity. Year 7 also participated in an online presentation by Headspace Schools & Communities focusing on
- Identifing the ways your body and brain react to stress
- Learning about the impact bullying can have on mental health
- Finding spaces and activities to help you stand strong
- Exploring who you can talk to and where you can get support
We encourage parents and carers to take this opportunity to have open and honest conversations with their children about the impact of bullying and what they can do if they need support. You can visit the Bullying No Way website for tips around how to have this discussion.
If you have concerns that your child is being bullied, please contact Your Leaders of Wellbeing in the first instance. If you believe the behaviour constitutes a crime, or is a serious incident of cyberbullying, please refer to the Bullying No Way website for information on how to report to other authorities and access wellbeing help.
Finance
SJPC Communication - Facebook
Do you follow SJPC's Facebook page? This is where you will find reminders of upcoming social events, sporting updates, transport delays, job advertisements and photos of SJPC students participating in everyday life at the College.
To start following St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour please click on this link
Compass
Attendance and Permission to Leave School during the Day - Early Departure
Please note early departures or late arrivals cannot be submitted as an attendance note via the Compass App. Only full day absences can be submitted using the attendance note via the Compass App.
Students must have a written note from their parents/carers, giving an explanation and requesting permission to leave the College at a specific time. Students must take the note to the College Office before school and a Compass reminder notice is uploaded on the student's dashboard. At the allocated time, students must return to the College Office to formally sign out for the day and return the handwritten note.
For urgent appointments or requests to leave the College without a written note, parents/carers are required to collect their student from the College Office. Students will not be dismissed from class until parents/carers arrival at the College Office. Please allow enough time for the Office staff to retrieve students, as there could be delays leaving the Office. If students are able to bring a note in the morning this will alleviate any delay.
Arriving Late or Returning from an Appointment
Students MUST sign in at the College Office if they are arriving late to school or if students are returning to school after an appointment.
Compass - Permission to Leave from SPORT - Early Departure
Students must bring a written note from their parents/carers to the College Office before they depart for sport. Early departure from Sport cannot be submitted via the Compass App only a written note will be accepted. Only full day absences can be submitted using the attendance note via the Compass App.
Student Diary
Lost Property
Uniform Shop
Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am - 9:00am
Homework Centre
Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:20pm - 5:00pm
Much of the country is in the grip of a cold snap, and whilst we have the luxury of going to warm homes, hot showers and snugly beds, this is not the case for many in Australia. More families are being forced into living in their car, couch-surfing or living in tents on the street.
The College is launching our annual Winter Appeal on behalf of St. Vincent de Paul, and we would ask all to contribute what they can for those struggling. We are seeking jumpers, beanies, socks and blankets, in particular, to try and bring some comfort to those less fortunate. Additionally, donations of non-perishable food items would also be greatly appreciated.
Vinnies at the College will be collecting until the end of August, when we will hold the Winter Sleepout on Thursday 29 August. The following day is St John Paul Day, where we will hand over the donations to the local chapter of Vinnies to distribute.
Photos from 2023 Winter Sleepout
The community has always been exceedingly generous for these appeals, and every item greatly assists us. If you can donate, donations can be left with the office, Mrs Gennat or Mr Bujeya.
Leanne Gennat and Brett Bujeya
SJPC Vinnies Conference
Become a Volunteer English Tutor and support people in your local community
- Volunteers are urgently needed in your area.
- Tutor a migrant or refugee student for 1 hour each week at a library or TAFE NSW campus.
- Free training and ongoing support provided by TAFE NSW.
- Learn new skills and help make a difference in your local community.
