11 April 2025 - Newsletter (Vol 42 No 5)
- Principal Appraisal
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- School Evangelisation
- Leader of Student Engagement
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- Literacy Coach
- Visual Arts
- Music
- Languages
- Can Do Cancer Trust Swim
- Chess
- TAS - Year 7 Agriculture Technology
- TAS - Year 9 Eat Around the World
- Sports Corner
- Office News
- What's On!
- We're Hiring
- Year 7 2026 Enrolments
- National Youth Science Forum - Year 12 Program
- ANZAC Day Service
- Mother's Day Breakfast
- Study Skills Handbook - Creating a Study Playlist
- Promoting Positive Relationships in our SJPC Community
Dear Parents
During Term two on Thursday, 29 May 2025, Michael Carniato will be involved in a principal appraisal process as part of his contract of employment. The appraisal process seeks information from a variety of people associated with the school and uses a number of tools to ensure effective consultation. The process aims to highlight the positive aspects of the leadership offered and identify areas for further development.
A timeline is currently being arranged to suit the needs of the school community. The appraisal will be conducted by an External Chair nominated by the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools.
The full Principal appraisal process involves:
- a survey and self-appraisal statement completed by the Principal
- an interview with the Principal
- input as arranged with the Parish Priest
- surveys of parents, school staff and Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools personnel
- interviews with the Schools Leadership Team
- interviews with a random selection of staff who request an interview with the Chair
- interviews with a random selection of parents who request an interview with the Chair.
The preferred method of survey completion is by the online survey form. A link to this form will be forwarded to your email address. Please ensure your current email address is registered at the school as this survey link will be sent to you Monday, 28 April 2025. Parents may express their interest to be interviewed via this electronic form. Not all those who express an interest to be interviewed will be contacted. If not contacted, then parents may wish to email their comments. Anonymous comments and emails will not be considered.
In writing the appraisal report, use of the information gathered will remain confidential and not identify sources. Every family in the school is encouraged to complete a survey.
Your support of the appraisal process is appreciated.
Yours sincerely
Michael Mullaly
Chair
Tell Them From Me Survey - Your Voice Matters!
Early next term we'll be inviting students, teachers and parents to provide feedback on their experience of our school using an online survey. The surveys are an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process.
In 2024, 193 parents/carers completed the survey. The results of surveys, such as these, help provide direction for future planning and open up areas for fruitful discussion between home and school.
An example of this is, last year you told us that you feel welcomed at the school and an area for improvement was developing a more inclusive school environment. In 2025, our College Pastoral Care Goal is “to build a safe and inclusive environment focusing on positive well being for staff and students” with many initiatives being implemented to support this goal throughout this year. Your voice really does matter and helps to guide our future planning.
We would like to extend an invitation to all parents/carers to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) survey this year. We value the role of parents and carers within our school community and would greatly appreciate your feedback. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at St John Paul College.
The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.
WHEN? Term 2 Week 3 (the survey will remain open for 3 weeks)
HOW? You will be provided with a URL to access the parent survey and complete online
Harmony Day 2025
Last week’s Harmony Day celebrations were a joyful expression of the incredible cultural diversity within our school community. It was wonderful to see so many students enthusiastically volunteering as Harmony Day Ambassadors, taking the lead in planning and running engaging activities and food stalls. Their leadership and pride in their cultural heritage were truly inspiring. The event brought our community together through a shared appreciation of traditions, food, and fun. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who generously donated food - from fried rice and traditional Indian sweets, to Portuguese Arroz Doce and Pasteis de Bacalhau, Pakistani Vegetable Pakora Fritters, Colombian Arepas and Agua Panela, to Scottish shortbread and a delicious variety of sweets. Activities included Henna body art, Aboriginal face painting, soccer matches, and a popular flag guessing competition. It was a memorable celebration of unity in diversity, and we are proud of all who contributed to making it such a success. To top it all off, we raised an impressive $1792.55 for Project Compassion! Well done everyone!
Assistant Principal - Mission
Rest is vital for better mental health, increased concentration and memory, a healthier immune system, reduced stress, improved mood and even a better metabolism.
It can be difficult to define rest because it can look different for everyone. Rest is any behaviour aimed at increasing physical or mental well-being. It can be active, such as going for a walk outside, or passive, such as taking 10 minutes to sit down and breathe deeply.
With work, school, homework, after school activities, friends and more, there are countless activities that compete for time on the family calendar. Holiday breaks can also provide a break from our heavy schedules. Family time can serve as an escape from the demands and deadlines of daily life, and is paramount in building strong relationships.
Please do all you can to have a break with the family this holiday season and take the time to remember what Jesus did for us all over 2,000 years ago.
As the holidays draw to a close, please make every effort to support the College on Anzac Day by marching at one of the local venues (in full College academic uniform). An email highlighting the different times will appear on Compass soon (if it has not already made its way there).
Thanks to all who have done the best they can this term (especially Year 7 our newest members of the SJPC Community) and we look forward to all returning for what I am sure will be a busy Term two.
Students and Handwriting Skills
As we draw to the close of Term 1 and prepare for Easter, I write to ask students and families to consider the skill of handwriting from the start of Term 2 onwards. The following has been taken from our subscription to Studyskills.com of which all families have free access to.
Most tests and examinations still require students to handwrite responses under timed conditions. To improve your handwriting, first consider how healthy you are in the four elements of legible handwriting: letter formation, sizing, alignment on the line and spacing between words. Then use the steps below to start to improve your handwriting:
- Find the best pen for you: Experiment with different pens to see which is the easiest to write with and which one gives you the neatest handwriting. Use the same pen all the time.
- Good grip: Hold the pen/pencil gently and do not grip too tightly or push too hard on the paper.
- Use arm muscles: always write with your forearm and shoulder NOT with your fingers or wrist. This way your strokes will flow much better. It may take you some time to retrain your arm and hand but be aware of these movements when you practise. The muscles in your forearm and shoulder tire less easily than your fingers.
- Begin with large strokes: practise initially on a whiteboard (or even tracing letters in the air) using large strokes until you feel comfortable with using your forearm and shoulder muscles. When you feel you have conquered this, it is time to begin practising on paper. Keep using large strokes, gradually reducing them in size as your control of the muscles increases. Once you have accomplished this it is time to begin practising in your exercise book forming normal sized letters.
- Posture: Ensure you practise your handwriting skills at a desk or table. Sit up straight using a good chair.
- Ruled line book: Buy a ruled exercise book (like a primary cursive pad) for practice use. Always write on lined paper and take note of how you are writing and how your work looks on the page.
- Copy style: Look for an example of a handwriting style that you like and can use to copy from. Keep this in front of you at all times to inspire you towards improving your style.
- Individual letters: Begin with individual letters and practise writing at least one letter per day concentrating on the four elements of legible handwriting.
- Whole words: Once you have worked your way through individual letters in the alphabet practise writing whole words. Be aware of the flow from one letter to the next as well as spacing between each word.
- Test sentence: Choose a test sentence for yourself and write it at the top of your first practice page. Each week write this sentence at the top of a new page to check for improvement in your writing.
- Special Sentence: Frequently practise writing the sentence ‘the quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog’ in small and capital letters. This sentence contains all the letters in the alphabet and gives you good overall practice of each letter.
- Write slowly to start: Write slowly when practicing until you are happy with the quality of your handwriting. Then increase the speed.
- Realistic goals: Don’t set impractical goals for improvement. Improvement will take time and is a matter for persistence – it all comes down to practice, practice and then more practice!
- Look for opportunities to write: Try and hand write whenever possible.
Once your handwriting style has improved, you can then focus on improving the speed of your handwriting. Every day, practise writing at speed. Choose a particular passage and write it out neatly. Time yourself. The next day write it out neatly again but try and speed up a bit and time yourself again. The goal is to get to the point where you can write the passage out quickly but still maintain neat handwriting. Doing this for just 5 minutes every day will really help you to improve your handwriting. If your cursive (running) writing is really bad, you may find it easier to learn to print really fast in exams rather than focus on improving your cursive style.
You can also try writing with a pen that is weighted on the end to build up the muscles in your hand used for writing. When you get to the exams take the weight off the end and feel the benefits of a lighter pen! And for people with serious handwriting issues, check out the special pens in the handwriting section of the Studyskills website.
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
Thank You for Supporting Our Project Compassion Bake Sale!
A big thank you to our St John Paul College community for your incredible support of the Year 10 Ministry class’s Project Compassion bake sale last Friday. Thanks to your generosity, we raised a total of $686.10 to support Caritas Australia's mission to help vulnerable communities around the world.
We are so grateful to all the families and students who baked and donated goods for the event, as well as those who came to purchase and support this worthy cause. Your kindness is helping to empower communities to break free from the cycle of poverty and build stronger, more sustainable futures for themselves.
This Lent, we shared the inspiring stories of individuals like Toefuata'iga from Samoa, Lam from Vietnam, and Irene from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whose lives have been transformed thanks to the support of people like you. Your contributions are directly helping to provide clean water, education, skills training, and economic opportunities to those in need.
With your continued support, we are creating a better tomorrow for those who need it most. We thank you once again for standing with Caritas Australia and for helping to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Thank you for your generosity and support!
Year 11 Students Reflect on the Powerful Kairos Retreat
Two Year 11 students, Ruby Nulty and Katelyn Davidson, recently had the opportunity to attend the transformative Kairos Retreat. Katelyn described the experience as “truly amazing and beautiful,” noting how the retreat brought together students from across the Lismore Diocese to reflect on their faith journeys and worship together.
The Kairos Retreat, which draws on the Greek word for “God’s time,” focuses on deepening one’s relationship with God and fostering a sense of community. Over the course of three and a half days, retreatants engaged in a variety of activities designed to promote self-reflection, build trust, and encourage personal and spiritual growth. Participants explored themes such as discovering Jesus in a personal way, knowing themselves, and responding to God’s call.
Katelyn shared that the retreat offered her a chance to connect with others in a meaningful way, and to understand the importance of living out her faith daily. She was particularly moved by the opportunity for reconciliation and the deep sense of consolation that many retreatants experienced.
The program’s design is grounded in Christian values, emphasising prayer, community, and the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation. According to Katelyn, these elements made the retreat not only a time of spiritual awakening but also an opportunity to grow in self-awareness and personal faith.
In addition to the enriching experience of the retreat itself, I joined Ruby and Katelyn at the retreat to learn more about the Kairos program. I’m eager to introduce a Kairos Retreat for our senior students in the near future, further enriching the spiritual journey for our school community.
We look forward to seeing how the powerful lessons of Kairos will continue to shape the lives of our students as they grow in faith, community, and leadership.
Leader of School Evangelisation
A Harmonious week was had by all...
What a vibrant and heartwarming Harmony Week it was last week! Our school truly shone in its inclusivity and cultural celebration. It was wonderful to see everyone embracing diversity and coming together as one community. From colourful displays to delicious shared meals, the spirit of harmony was palpable. A special shout-out to all the Harmony Ambassadors who contributed to making it such a memorable week!
Adding to the festive spirit were the energetic lunchtime football games, where students from most years showcased their skills and sportsmanship. These games were more than just competition; they were a fantastic opportunity to build friendships and celebrate teamwork. The laughter and camaraderie on the field perfectly echoed the spirit of Harmony Week.
Forging Bonds, Conquer Heights: Year 10 Mentoring Program Reaches New Peak!
This week, our male mentoring program participants from Year 10 faced a true test of grit and camaraderie! They embarked on a challenging hike up the firetrail to the Boambee radio tower just west of Coffs, tackling rugged terrain and even a few tenacious leeches. The journey was more than just a physical feat; it was an opportunity to build resilience, foster teamwork, and share invaluable life lessons. Reaching the summit, with its breathtaking views, symbolised the power of perseverance and the strength found in supporting one another. A huge congratulations to all the Jackson and Mitch (program mentors) and the Year 10 boys who conquered the climb. They came, they saw, they conquered…….together!
Be rock, Be water!
An exciting opportunity arises for our Year 9 students next term as they embark on some intense sessions of the Rock and Water - self-development course. This engaging initiative will equip students with valuable tools for building resilience, managing emotions, and fostering positive relationships. Year 9 parents have been emailed an information letter and the first groups start Week 1.
Goodbye Term One, Hello holidays…
Term 1 has presented our community with its share of pastoral challenges, testing our resilience and compassion. We've faced these moments together, supporting one another through difficult times. We're immensely proud of the strength and unity shown by our students, staff, and families. The range of programs and opportunities for growth and development has been fantastic, and our energetic Pastoral Care team look forward to more opportunities next term to learn and share.
As we approach the Easter break, we encourage everyone to take time for rest, reflection, and renewal. I’d like to send warm wishes for a joyful and restorative holiday, filled with laughter and connection. We all look forward to a bright and positive Term two, energised and ready for new opportunities!
Mark Coster
Leader of Student Engagement
Year 8
As we reach the end of Term 1, we have been truly impressed by how our Year 8 students have embraced their second year of secondary education. The transition from Year 7 to Year 8 can present new challenges, yet this cohort has navigated this change with remarkable confidence and maturity.
The dedication shown by our Year 8 students in their academic pursuits has been exceptional. Teachers have consistently reported high levels of engagement during lessons, with students actively participating in discussions and showing genuine curiosity across all subject areas. Many have gone above and beyond in their assignments, demonstrating a growing independence in their learning journey.
Perhaps most heartwarming has been witnessing the strong sense of community within this cohort. The kindness and compassion our Year 8 students show toward one another creates a positive learning environment where everyone feels valued and included.
This term, our Year 8 students have engaged enthusiastically with our pastoral care program, particularly around exploring the gospel value from Matthew 6:25-26, focusing on knowing your inherent value. Through thoughtful discussions and reflective activities, students have deepened their understanding of self-worth and the importance of recognising value in others.
The homeroom team challenges have been a highlight, with friendly competition bringing students together in collaborative problem-solving and team-building exercises. It's been wonderful to see different homerooms develop their unique identities while maintaining a spirit of camaraderie across the entire year level.
A focus on inclusive language
The College has placed special emphasis on inclusive language as part of our commitment to creating a respectful learning environment. Year 8 students have explored how our words impact others and the importance of communication that respects and values everyone.
Tips for Parents on Encouraging Respectful Communication
We encourage parents to partner with us by continuing these important conversations at home. Here are some suggestions for fostering respectful communication:
- Model inclusive language yourself - Children learn by example, so demonstrate respectful communication in your everyday interactions.
- Create open dialogue - Ask your child about language they hear at school. Discuss which words build others up and which might unintentionally hurt.
- Gently correct and explain - If you notice exclusionary language, explain why certain words might be hurtful rather than simply forbidding them.
- Discuss media influences - Watch movies or listen to music together and talk about the language used and its potential impact.
- Acknowledge progress - Notice and praise your child when they demonstrate thoughtful, inclusive communication.
As we look ahead to Term 2, we encourage our Year 8s to maintain this positive momentum. The foundation you've built this term provides an excellent platform for continued growth and achievement.
The College community is immensely proud of you all. Well done on an outstanding start to the year!
Alana Johnson and Matt Currie
Year 8 Leaders of Student Wellbeing
Year 9
As Term 1 comes to a close, we are thrilled to see Year 9 students embracing the new academic year with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. From the very first day, our students have shown a strong commitment to their learning, personal growth, and school values, setting a great tone for the year ahead.
A key focus for Year 9 this term has been the use of inclusive language and fostering positive relationships within our school community. Our students have engaged in discussions and activities aimed at promoting respect, understanding, and kindness in their interactions with peers and teachers alike. By making a conscious effort to use language that uplifts and includes everyone, they are helping to build an environment where all students feel valued and supported.
The emphasis on positive relationships has also been evident in the way Year 9 students are working together in class, collaborating on projects, and supporting each other both inside and outside the classroom. It has been wonderful to see them forming strong friendships, demonstrating empathy, and contributing to a culture of mutual respect.
Teachers and staff have been incredibly proud of the way our Year 9 students have started the year. Their willingness to learn, participate, and uphold the values of inclusivity and respect has set a high standard for the rest of the school. As the school year progresses, we look forward to seeing them continue to grow academically and personally, embracing challenges with confidence and positivity.
Looking ahead, Term 2 will bring even more exciting opportunities for Year 9 students. The Rock and Water program will begin, offering valuable lessons on resilience, emotional awareness, and self-confidence. Additionally, in Week 4 of Term 2, students will head to the Great Aussie Bush Camp, an exciting experience that will encourage personal growth, teamwork, and adventure.
Well done, Year 9 – keep up the fantastic work!
Year 10
A Term of Reflection, Growth, and Compassion
As we reach the end of another busy term, we want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible efforts and achievements of our Year 10 students. Their dedication and hard work have truly made a positive impact in many areas, from supporting organisations such as Vinnies to participating in activities such as peer mentoring, music concerts, sporting events and embracing the spirit of Harmony Day as examples. We have seen them return to school with a renewed sense of purpose, and their contributions have made our school environment a better place for all who are part of it—friends, family, fellow classmates, and staff.
This term, we’ve emphasised the importance of looking out for those in need. Jesus’ message about the greatest among us being the one who seeks out the less fortunate and carries them along their journey has been a guiding principle. It has been heartening to see our students embody this spirit of service, reaching out and supporting others in both big and small ways. At the same time, we’ve encouraged students to reflect on their own journey and the people they choose to surround themselves with—asking themselves if their companions help to uplift them and support their growth. Through our conversations, we’ve explored the importance of making thoughtful decisions by seeing the world through the eyes of others. This perspective not only enriches our interactions but also helps guide us to make choices that reflect kindness, understanding, and empathy.
We are immensely proud of all the students who have contributed to making this term meaningful, and we want to express our gratitude for their hard work. As we look ahead to the break, we encourage them to take time for personal reflection. To consider the friendships they’ve nurtured, the academic progress they’ve made, and their overall well-being. The break is an opportunity to recharge, but also to set intentions for the term ahead. What can they do to continue growing, both as individuals and as part of our school community?
Thank you, once again, to all the students for their efforts this term and to the staff for their dedication to guiding our children as they become young adults. I would like to especially thank Anneliese Mills for all her behind the scenes work, communication with students, staff and parents and our wonderful homeroom team. We look forward to seeing everyone return with renewed energy and focus in the next term.
Richard O'Connor & Anneliese Mills
Year 10 Leaders of Student Wellbeing
Year 12
Your support is driving change!
Sunday’s event was a fairway to support our Year 12 fundraising charities for 2025: Warrina Women's & Children's Refuge and CanDo Cancer Coffs Harbour. Congratulations to all the raffle, novelty events and competition winners.
We extend our sincere thanks to our hole-heartedly generous sponsors, particularly Carlton United Breweries, Coffs Harbour Golf Club, for helping us putt on a great event, and our dedicated Year 12 volunteers who were on par with their efforts. Thank you to everyone who played, donated, and helped out – your support is tee-rific in making a real impact for local families.
Nick Haworth
Year 12 Leader of Student Wellbeing
LITERACY MATTERS
ALL THINGS LITERACY, BECAUSE LITERACY MATTERS IN ALL THINGS
The Power of Reading
Reading is learning. Learning is education. Education is knowledge. Knowledge is power. Power is influence. And influence is the ability to change the world.
Reading is not just important because it leads to higher achievement in education.
Reading helps strengthen the brain. Just like exercise strengthens the body, reading is one workout that strengthens the mind. Reading involves a complex network of circuits and signals in the brain. As your reading ability matures, those networks also get stronger and more sophisticated. Frequent brain exercise helps reduce the decline in mental ability that comes with ageing.
Reading improves mental health. Escaping to the world of books helps us escape worries and stress, promotes better sleep and higher self-esteem. Individuals who read fiction are better able to understand others’ mental states, beliefs, desires, differing thoughts and this leads to improved social, communication and relationship skills.
Reading improves vocabulary and knowledge. The more you read, the more words to which you are exposed. There is a strong correlation between word-reading skills and vocabulary acquisition and opportunities in life.
Reading improves memory and focus. As your brain learns to remember all the aspects of a fictional novel, your memory becomes better. This helps create new brain pathways and strengthen existing ones. Immersing oneself in the world of literature requires focus. The more we read the more our brains are able to link cause and effect.
Reading makes us better writers. The two are intertwined.
Reading enhances imagination and empathy. Literary fiction has the power to help readers understand what others are thinking and feeling. Empathy is crucial for interconnectivity.
Reading strengthens analytical thinking skills. Reading requires us to ask questions and seek answers.
Teenager TED talk on: The Power of Reading
WORD OF THE WEEK
Esurient (adj) Hungry, greedy,or eager for something
The esurient student devoured the book, desperate to learn more about the topic.
Oubaitori (n)
The ancient Japanese philosophy, Oubaitori comes from kanji for the four trees that bloom in Spring: cherry blossom, plum, peach and apricot. Each flower blooms in its own time and the meaning behind the idiom is that we all bloom in our own time. Essentially, this idiom means that people shouldn’t live their lives comparing themselves to others, but instead value their own traits and focus on their own growth.
Literacy Coach
Yarrila Arts & Museum Excursion
Our Year 11 and 12 Ceramics students recently visited Yarilla Arts and Museum, where they immersed themselves in the SIXTY: The Journal of Australian Ceramics 60th Anniversary, 1962–2022 exhibition. Adding to the experience, students also had the opportunity to explore A Survey, an intriguing showcase of ceramic works by local Bellingen-based ceramicist John Tuckwell.
We were fortunate to have an impromptu talk from Victorian ceramic artist Ben Elbourne on the day. Ben generously shared his artistic practice and the inspiration behind his thought-provoking piece, Conduit Sample Collection, 2021, which explores themes of memory and survival. Students were encouraged to ask Ben questions about his practice and gained invaluable insight into the life of a practising ceramicist. This enriching learning opportunity left our Year 11 and 12 Ceramics students inspired and excited about the journey ahead of them.
Teacher - Visual Arts and Ceramics Teachers
Our Year 12 class had an exceptional evening of music performances, showcasing students' Term 1 performances. The concert gave the class a final dress rehearsal in front of a packed theatre in preparation for their performance assessment.
Meet the Year 12 Music Students
Rock Concert
Leader of Learning - Music & Drama
Year 8 Japanese
This year, all Year 8 students have started their journey of learning Japanese and are working their way through the Hiragana Belt System with the ultimate goal of earning their black belt.
The Hiragana Belt System offers an exciting and structured approach to learning the Japanese writing system. Gamifying the process and breaking it down into manageable steps helps students stay engaged, motivated, and on track. Whether they are just beginning or revisiting Hiragana, this system makes mastering the basics of Japanese writing both achievable and fun.
So, Year 8 students—roll up your sleeves, earn those belts, and keep progressing toward your Hiragana black belt and the prize of Hi-Chew!
Congratulations to Hannah Woods, Harrison Mackay, Nate Stephenson, and Bella Blair who have all achieved their black belt throughout Term 1 - very impressive!
 Hannah Woods |
 Year 8 |
 Nate Stephenson |
 Year 8 |
Teacher - English / Languages
On March 22nd, sixteen swimmers from SJPC participated in the Can Do Cancer Swim at Coffs Pool, representing four teams. The swimmers, Eliana Straw, Isla Martin, Lucas Burridge, Angus Harris, Holly Becker, Ethan Dawson, Riley Woods, Carlo Eiler (Isa), Bridie Third, Amber McKeon, Maddie Clark, Saffron Picker, Maycee Shortis, Ruby Mezher, Monique Hill, and Dayna Loy, took on the challenge of a continuous relay totaling 19.7 kilometers, mirroring the Rottnest Channel swim. This 15th annual event, dedicated to supporting local cancer patients and their families, successfully raised over $9,000, enabling assistance for 15-20 individuals within the community during their challenging times.
The SJPC teams demonstrated exceptional teamwork and resilience, with Ethan Dawson, Riley Woods, Carlo Eiler (Isa), and Holly Becker achieving over 50 laps within their 30-minute allocation. The school was also honored with the School Community Award. Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to this meaningful cause, highlighting the event's impact in fostering a sense of community and giving back. Chris Hines from the Can Do Cancer Trust then spoke further about the event and presented the trophy for Best School.
Year 12 Leader of Student Wellbeing
On Wednesday 26 March, four of our students Sandy (Year 7), William (Year 7), Tamanna (Year 11) and Archie (Year 9) visited Christian Community High School (CCHS) for our annual Chess tournament round robin. All players put their best piece forward, however, did not come away with the victory as CCHS were too experienced for our team. We walked away from the school with a better understanding of the game and will do better next round. We appreciated the hospitality and friendliness of CCHS. We have hit the boards and are training up for our next round.
 Year 7 |
 Year 7 |
 Year 9 |
 Year 11 |
Our Year 7 Agriculture classes have had a busy term managing their produce gardens. The students have undertaken a range of skills in the preparation, planting and watering of their gardens on a weekly basis. Students have also been studying and comparing the provision of food in soil and in our hydroponic system with weekly data collection. Students have begun harvesting their produce over the last two weeks. This produce is taken home by the students and also donated to Pete's place in Coffs Harbour to support those in need. The Year 7 students have recently incubated eggs and welcomed 15 chickens into the world and have enjoyed monitoring their growth this term.
Year 9 Students in the Eat Around the World course have explored Latin American street food this term and have enjoyed nachos, salsa, burritos, churros, soft shell tacos, chargrilled corn, marinated chicken and last week, empanadas. It has been a term of bold spices, colourful ingredients, avocado and paprika!
Here they are making the pastry for the empanadas. Delicious!!
College Cross Country
Congratulations to the top 3 finishers for the College Cross Country:
| 12 years girls |
 Maia Bennett |
 Holy Seremale |
 3rd |
| 12 years boys |
 1st |
 2nd |
 3rd |
| 13 years girls |
 1st |
 2nd |
 3rd |
| 13 years boys |
 1st |
 2nd |
 3rd |
| 14 years girls |
 1st |
 2nd |
 3rd |
| 14 years boys |
 1st |
 2nd |
 3rd |
Students who finished in the top 6 have qualified to represent the College at the Diocesan Cross Country in Grafton on 16 May.
AFL Senior School Cup Report
The Senior School AFL teams put in a fantastic effort in the recent AFL Cup competition. The girls’ team faced a tough opening match, resulting in a loss that prevented them from reaching the final. However, they bounced back with a strong performance against Orara, securing victory by four goals. Despite the wet and slippery conditions, the team played with enthusiasm and had a great time on the field.
The boys’ team showcased dominance from the start, overwhelming BDC with a commanding 44-7 win. Ashton Herbert was a standout, taking impressive marks and contributing three goals, while Huon McDermott and Sonny Burrell also found the scoreboard. In the final, the boys continued their excellent form, defeating Coffs High by four goals in another strong team effort. Their victory means they have now progressed to the regional final, where they will look to continue their success.
Diocesan Netball
On Friday, 4 April, 9 of our students trialed for the Lismore Diocese Netball U15 and U18 teams. This process involved completing a nomination form and then being invited to attend the trial. Over 180 athletes from Tweed to Port signed up, with only 55 being accepted overall; we were lucky to have so many selected to attend the trials.
Throughout the day, the girls had the opportunity to showcase their skills and determination for the selectors with the following amazing results:
 Jemma Potter |
| U15 Team |
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| U15 Team Reserves |
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The girls will now travel to Sydney as part of the Lismore Diocese team to trial for the NSWCCC teams in May. Good luck!
Congratulations and thank you to our students who officiated the day:
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Diocesan Swimming Champions
At the time of writing the last newsletter, the full results had not been published for the Diocesan swimming championships. Since then, we have been informed that several of our students had achieved Diocesan Age Champions! Congratulations to:
 Coco Becker |
 14 years Runner Up Age Champion |
 15 years Runner Up Age Champion |
NSWCCC Swimming Championships – A Stellar Performance by Our Students!
The NSWCCC Swimming Championships were held at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre at Homebush on April 2nd and 3rd, and our College swimmers certainly made a splash! Several of our talented students represented the Diocese in both individual and team events, showcasing exceptional skill, dedication, and sportsmanship.
One standout performance came from our 12-14 years boys’ freestyle relay team, who exceeded expectations by shaving precious seconds off their Diocesan time. Their teamwork and determination were truly impressive, and they should be incredibly proud of their efforts.Well done Luke Wilson, Cohen Straw,
A special mention must go to Coco Becker, who had a sensational meet. Coco’s hard work and focus paid off as she claimed an impressive haul of medals: 1 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze, and a 4th place finish. Her performance not only earned her individual accolades but also secured her a spot on the NSWCCC team for the prestigious All Schools event in April. What an outstanding achievement!
All our swimmers displayed remarkable talent and sportsmanship, making the College proud with their determination and excellent results. Congratulations to all our athletes for their hard work and dedication! We can’t wait to see what you achieve next!
Congratulations
To Billy Backhouse who was drafted into the U14 Brisbane Warriors Waterpolo team and competed in the Queensland Championships on the Gold Coast this week. His team narrowly missed out on the Gold medal match, but played for the Bronze.
Interhouse Volleyball Championships
Year 12 Final Showdown
The much-anticipated Interhouse Volleyball Championships for Year 12 came to an exciting conclusion on Monday, April 7, with a thrilling final round that saw fierce competition between the four houses: Casey, Hargraves, McAuley, and Kelly.
Going into the final round, Casey was in the lead with a commanding 80 points, followed by Kelly on 70 points, Hargraves on 65 points, and McAuley trailing at 35 points. The stage was set for an intense showdown, with each team hoping to claim the top spot.
The preliminary rounds kicked off with a nail-biting match between Casey and McAuley. The two teams battled hard, but in the end, the match ended in a draw. Due to the first point scored progression rule, McAuley progressed. On court 2, Kelly and Hargraves squared off, with Kelly struggling to keep up. Hargraves dominated the match, securing a 17-14 victory.
The competition continued with the minor final between Casey and Kelly. Casey demonstrated their skill and determination, emerging victorious with an 18-8 win, while on Centre Court, McAuley and Hargraves fought fiercely for the win. In the end, McAuley’s resilience paid off, as they secured their first win of the championships with a 19-11 victory.
As the final round came to a close, the championship standings were clear:
- Casey finished in first place with 90 points
- Hargraves came in second with 80 points
- Kelly placed third with 75 points
- McAuley took fourth with 55 points
The competition was a testament to the skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship displayed by all the teams throughout the tournament and the outstanding organisation and leadership of the House Captains. Congratulations to Casey for their well-earned victory and to all the houses for their spirited performances. We look forward to next year’s championships and the continuing legacy of friendly competition between our houses!
Coming Up - Term 2 2025
Term 2, 2025 |
| Thursday 8 May |
NSW All Schools Touch, Port Macquarie |
| Friday 9 May | Bill Turner Cup Rd 2, Synthetics Coffs |
| Wednesday 14 May | Diocesan Tennis, Lismore |
| Thursday 15 May | Basketball NSW (Males and Females), Coffs |
| Wednesday 21 May |
Country Cup League, Grafton |
| Thursday 29 May |
Junior Cup AFL, Coffs Harbour |
| Wednesday 4 June |
Diocesan Junior Football, Coffs Harbour |
| Thursday 12 June |
Diocesan Senior Football, Coffs Harbour |
| Friday 13 June |
NSW Fast 5 Netball, Port Macquarie |
| Monday 16 - 18 June |
NSWCCC Open Basketball, Penrith |
* events require students to sign up directly on the Diocesan Sport website
Leader of Sport
Finance
To view your balance and make a payment online please log in to the Compass Parent Portal.
If you have any questions, please email cofhs-finance@lism.catholic.edu.au or cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au, or phone 6653 3155 (St John Paul College) / 6653 1655 (DLCS Regional Fee Support Team)
2024 Yearbook
For families who have not received their 2024 Yearbook, please remind your child to collect from the College Office. One yearbook per family.
Compass - Reminder
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.
If you are unable to contact the Office or provide a written note for a Late Arrival, once the student has signed into the Office, a notification will appear on your Compass Dashboard to prompt you to explain the partial absence with an attendance note.
Medical Information
Head Injuries
All Head Injuries to anyone in the school or associated with a School Activity are treated seriously.
Any student who receives a concussion or a suspected concussion should be seen by a doctor with experience in managing concussion.
Students who have been diagnosed with a concussion, must have medical clearance before returning to School.
Parents, Carers and/or Guardians are strongly encouraged to advise the school when a student suffers a head injury when in their care, out of school time.
A five-day activity restriction will be recommended for any students who have suffered a head injury.
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
Student Diary
Helpful information is found in the student diary regarding daily college procedures. Please take the time to go through the student diary with your child.
Lost Property
Please encourage your child to visit the Office if they have lost any school items. Please mark your child's name on all school items, including airpods, pencil cases, drink bottles, sport bags and school uniform.
Uniform Shop
Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am - 9:30am
Homework Centre
Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:20pm - 5:00pm
Please click here to apply
Year 7 2026 Enrolment Period
Applications open - Wednesday 30 April 2025
Applications close - Wednesday 21 May 2025
Enrolment Interviews commence - Monday 2 June - Friday 6 June 2025
Dear Year 6 Parents/Carers
Please follow these steps to enroll your Year 6 child at St John Paul College:
Do not apply directly through the College website; use your current school portal. The application process is completed within your current school Compass’ Portal Family & Enrolments module, which can be accessed through your Compass App or a Browser using your existing Compass Username and Password.
It is recommended that you use a computer or a large device for this process.
Access the Compass Family & Enrolments Module:
- On a browser (Recommended): Once logged into your portal, click the Cog Icon (top right) and navigate to the Family & Enrolments Module
- Compass App: Tap the "More" button (bottom right) and navigate to the Family & Enrolments Tile
Enrolment Application Process:
The application process involves the following stages:
Stage 1 - Student Profile
- Update Your Child's Profile: The Family & Enrolments module displays your child's information (address, date of birth, medical details, etc.).
- Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
- Ensure you have reviewed each page. You must click “complete student profile” on the final page to continue. Update the profile until the progress indicator reaches 100%
Stage 2 - College Application
- Once the student profile is complete, create an application and select the college you want to attend. Be sure to search the location first rather than the college name.
- Pay the Application Fee $50
Stage 3 - Application Confirmation
- Once you have submitted your application, the College will confirm that they have received it through a confirmation email. The Confirmation email will have a link to complete additional questions and the ability to upload the required documentation.
*No application will be processed unless all required documentation is submitted
Stage 4 - Complete Additional College Questions
- This questionnaire will cover:
- Baptism certificate (if applicable)
- Latest school report (available in your Compass portal)
- Latest NAPLAN report (available in your Compass portal)
- Siblings
- Alumni
- Immunisation History Statement
- Additional needs
- Learning adjustments
- Professional services
- English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D)
- Health and Safety
- Parent Reason for Application
- Special circumstances (e.g., court orders, access restrictions, family care arrangements)
Once completed, you will receive a copy of your submission, which will confirm that you have successfully lodged your application.
Stage 5 - Next Steps
- The College will email you to request that your child attend an Enrolment Interview with the Enrolment Committee and provide instructions on booking a date/time.
- An offer email will be sent, including the terms and conditions of Enrolment, the fee payer agreement for the College, and instructions on how to accept the offer and pay the $300 acceptance fee.
Applications for the 2026 NYSF Year 12 Program are open!
The NYSF Year 12 Program is a leading STEM program that gives incoming year 12 students the opportunity to explore future STEM pathways, visit universities, TAFE and industry, and meet hundreds of STEM enthusiasts just like them.
• The Australian National University, Canberra (6 –14 January 2026)
• The University of Queensland, Brisbane (13 – 21 January 2026)
Participants will be immersed in science and technology, and stay at either The Australian National University or The University of Queensland in January. They'll be absorbed into an unforgettable community to broaden their STEM future.
Can you think of current year 11 students who are interested in all things STEM? Be sure to let them know!
More Information about the Program
Financial support is available!
We encourage all applicants in need to seek financial support from NYSF’s Founding Partner, Rotary.
Many Rotary Clubs are familiar with the NYSF and may be able to offer strategies that assist students in fundraising. Students can find their local Rotary Club with Club Search, should your school not already have an existing relationship with Rotary.
NYSF Access and Equity Scholarship
We additionally have NYSF Access and Equity Scholarships for those who require more assistance attending. These are for disadvantaged students who otherwise would not have been able to participate.
Scholarship applications are assessed on whether participants meet the following criteria:
- from remote or regional areas,
- from a low socio-economic background,
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander,
- from any other backgrounds that might need support.
We understand everyone’s situation is unique. Students are encouraged to apply for funding if they experience financial hardship or another disadvantage that negatively impacts their ability to attend the program.
Leader of Learning - Science
Please click here to RSVP for catering purposes
Navigating Digital Dangers
As digital technology continues to advance, it brings new opportunities and significant challenges for young people. One growing concern is the sharing of inappropriate images, which can have far-reaching and serious consequences—both legally and emotionally. This behaviour not only breaches personal privacy but can also lead to cyberbullying, harassment, and even criminal charges.
We encourage you to engage in open, supportive discussions with your young person about respecting themselves and others online. Help them understand the potential outcomes of their digital actions and reassure them that it’s okay to ask for help if they ever feel pressured or uneasy.
One particularly troubling issue is sexual extortion, or "sextortion," a form of online blackmail. This can occur across various platforms, including social media, messaging apps, and live-streaming services. Offenders may exploit these platforms to manipulate young people into sharing intimate images or videos, which are then used to demand more content, money, or other favours.
These questions can help create an open dialogue, encourage critical thinking, and reassure young people that they can turn to their parents for support.
‘Have you ever heard of the term sextortion? What do you think it means?’
‘If someone online ever made you feel uncomfortable or pressured you to share something, how do you think you’d respond? Do you know who you could talk to for help?’
‘Why do you think some people use the internet to exploit others? What can we do to protect ourselves from that?’
‘What would you do if a friend told you they were being blackmailed online?’
‘Let’s talk about why it’s important to never give in to pressure to share private content, even if someone threatens or promises something in return.’
‘How can we make sure the people we interact with online are trustworthy?’
‘If someone you don’t know tried to contact you online, what steps would you take to stay safe?’
Helpful Advice for Parents from Think U Know:
If your young person experiences sextortion:
- Document Evidence: Take screenshots to preserve a record of any communications.
- Cut Off Contact: Cease all communication with the perpetrator and block them.
- Report the Incident: If you’re under 18, the best way to get help is to report it to the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE).
- Over 18s - You can report to Report Cyber. If you've reported to the platform/app/site and the platform doesn't help, you can also report to eSafety.
- Or visit your local Police Station with the information, and they can support you.
- For urgent situations, call Triple Zero (000).
Communicate with the school about what has occurred so they can support your young person with any challenges at school.
