20 June 2025 - Newsletter (Vol 42 No 9)
- Principal's Message
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- School Evangelisation
- Leader of Student Engagement
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- SJPC Merit Award Recipients
- Curriculum Matters
- Year 10 Ministry
- VET
- Languages
- Outdoor Education Project
- Sports Corner
- Mountain Bike Nationals - Jollynose
- Year 8 Geography
- English - Special Events
- Visual Arts
- 2025 Kawalazi Mufti Day
- Music Concert - Year 10 & 11 Elective Students
- What's On!
- Vinnies Winter Appeal
- Push-Up Challenge 2025
- Science Experience
- Catholic Schools Parent Assembly - SEEN, The Film
- Blue Sky Parent Workshop - Teen Tactics
- School Reunion
Guiding Our Future: Pope Leo XIV's Vision for Catholic Education
As our global Catholic community embraces a new chapter with the election of His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV, it is timely to reflect on how his pontificate may shape the future of Catholic education, particularly within our own school. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Francis Prevost, brings a distinctive perspective to the Petrine Ministry, notably as the first American-born Pontiff with a rich background in missionary work and a deep engagement with contemporary societal challenges.
While still early in his papacy, Pope Leo XIV's initial pronouncements and background offer valuable insights into his priorities, which will undoubtedly influence the Church's approach to teaching and learning. His choice of the name "Leo" is widely interpreted as a deliberate connection to Pope Leo XIII, signalling a commitment to bridging timeless truths with the complexities of the modern world, much as his distinguished namesake did over a century ago.
Here are some emerging themes from Pope Leo XIV's early pontificate that hold particular relevance for our school community here at SJPC.
Cultivating Dialogue and Collaborative Learning
Having served as Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops under Pope Francis, Pope Leo XIV is profoundly committed to the principle of synodality—a journeying together—and fostering open dialogue within the Church. For SJPC, this translates to an increased emphasis on collaborative learning, respectful discussion, and encouraging students to engage critically with diverse perspectives, always grounded in sound Catholic doctrine. Our aim is to cultivate learning spaces where every voice is valued, and where constructive dialogue leads to deeper understanding and stronger communion.
Navigating the Digital Age with Wisdom
Pope Leo XIV has expressed keen awareness of the rapid advancements in technology, particularly artificial intelligence, and their profound impact on human society. This indicates a clear mandate for Catholic education: to not only equip students with essential digital literacy but also to form them morally and ethically to navigate these new frontiers. Our curriculum will continue to evolve, ensuring students are prepared to critically evaluate information, utilize technology responsibly, and apply Catholic social teaching to the complex ethical dilemmas presented by an increasingly digital world.
Fostering a Missionary Spirit for Service
The extensive missionary work undertaken by Pope Leo XIV in Peru highlights a profound dedication to outreach, service to the marginalized, and nurturing a vibrant, active faith. This inherent missionary spirit encourages our school to instil in students a fervent passion for service, a global perspective, and a genuine desire to become agents of positive change within their local and global communities. This is something that our students are so good at and have been very generous with over the years. Education, viewed through this lens, transcends personal advancement; it becomes a preparation for students to proclaim the Good News.
Holistic Formation and Intellectual Rigor
Consistent with the legacy of previous pontiffs, Pope Leo XIV's background underscores a commitment to intellectual excellence alongside the holistic formation of the individual. His past roles signify an appreciation for robust academic foundations, encouraging students to pursue truth with diligence and critical inquiry.
As we look to the future, I am excited and inspired by Pope Leo XIV's commitment to a Church that is both deeply rooted in tradition and dynamically engaged with the contemporary world. At SJPC we remain dedicated to embodying this comprehensive vision, ensuring our students are not only academically proficient but also spiritually mature, ethically discerning, and passionately committed to living out their Catholic faith in a meaningful way.
God bless
Michael Carniato
Principal
Stronger Together: Partnering with Families for Wellbeing and Growth
Last week highlighted the powerful impact of school and family partnerships in supporting the wellbeing of our young people. On Wednesday evening, some of our Year 8 families came together for a practical session focused on ways to build resilience and emotional strength. Led by our Diocesan Parent Assembly, we explored the importance of identifying personal strengths, practising daily gratitude, and learning to shift from catastrophic thinking to contrast thinking - choosing a more balanced and hopeful perspective. The evening concluded with reflection and prayer using the Ignatian spiritual tool The Examen, encouraging families to pause each day to notice God’s presence and respond with gratitude.
Then on Saturday, I was privileged to join over 200 parents at the annual Diocesan Parent Assembly Conference, Thrive in 2025. We were incredibly fortunate to hear from two of Australia’s most trusted voices in parenting - Maggie Dent and Brad Marshall. Maggie reminded us of the importance of connection, calmness, and consistency in raising resilient children, echoing messages from her books like Help me help my teen and From Boys to Men. Brad Marshall, known as “The Unplugged Psychologist,” spoke about managing screen time and digital dependence, offering realistic strategies from his book The Tech Diet for Your Child & Teen.
Both events reminded us that we are stronger when we walk alongside one another - families, schools, and communities - nurturing our young people with wisdom, faith, and love. One point that deeply resonated with me - both as a parent and as a leader in a Catholic school - is the vital importance of every child having at least one ‘lighthouse person’ in their life: someone who helps them feel seen, valued, and unconditionally loved, no matter what.
Assistant Principal - Mission
Week 8 was an exciting week at SJPC as we begin our annual Kawalazi fundraiser for the year. The fundraiser will run for the remainder of the term. This is our 25th year in showing our support of Kawalazi High and Primary School in Malawi in southeastern Africa. It began with our College Assembly where the students were addressed by the very people who began the Kawalazi Project way back in 2001. Ashleigh Holmes (2001 College Captain), Ainslie Goodman and Erin McDonald (Class of 2001) spoke about the foundations of this project. Students also heard via video from Thomas Kwata Phiri (Principal of Kawalazi Primary in 2001) and Linessie Kwata (the first girl to attend university due to the success of the Kawalazi Project).
Other highlights of the fortnight will include a Homeroom Challenge to see which Homerooms can raise $50 which will educate a student for a year, the red, green and black mufti day & sausage sizzle (Tuesday - Week 9) along with the selling of authentic Kawalazi jewellery that the students are free to wear for the remainder of the term. There will also be a pictorial photographic history of the Kawalazi Project in the subway for all to see.
If families wish to individually sponsor a student from Kawalazi please contact the College Office. We need all the support we can get. Please give as much as you can so we can help as many students as possible.
The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). In some ways, gratitude encompasses all of these meanings. Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. In the process, people usually recognise that the source of that goodness lies at least partially outside themselves. As a result, being grateful also helps people connect to something larger than themselves as individuals — whether to other people, nature, or God.
(Giving thanks can make you happier)
In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.
Practicing an “attitude of gratitude” makes you feel better about the daily stresses and frustrations we all encounter and it improves your health:
- Better sleep. Before you go to sleep, spend a few minutes counting your blessings, and you could sleep more soundly and longer.
- Better physical health. Lower blood pressure, improved immune function and less fatigue are just some of the physical benefits you could reap.
- Better mental health. Gratitude promotes a sense of well-being and can help ease depression. It can also improve resiliency.
- Improved self-esteem. Cultivating feelings of gratitude and focusing on all the good things in your life create positive feelings about yourself and your abilities.
- Better relationships. Saying “thank you” and showing appreciation can strengthen your relationships with your significant other, family and friends. And it can help you make new friends and build new healthy relationships.
- Improved self-care. Being aware of the good things in your life can promote behaviours like exercising regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, creating opportunities for “me time” and taking care of your own health. (Behavioral Health Care - Benefits of gratitude)
There is no better time than during our Kawalazi giving to reflect on how fortunate we are, and how we can make such a difference to someone else by giving something so little. It is important to take time to remind ourselves and the young people in our care, how very blessed we are and in turn practicing gratitude can certainly make a positive impact on our lives.
Until next time:
ICAS in 2025
At St John Paul College, we strive to support students in developing their academic potential and building the confidence to take on new challenges. One opportunity that aligns with this goal is participation in the ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) program.
ICAS is a globally recognised competition that gives students the chance to apply their skills in areas such as English, Mathematics & Science. These assessments go beyond what students typically encounter in class - they are designed to stretch thinking, reward creativity, and promote problem-solving.
So, why is ICAS a valuable experience for our students?
- Extending Learning Beyond the Classroom
ICAS presents high-level questions that encourage students to think critically and independently. For students who enjoy being intellectually challenged, ICAS offers an opportunity to apply their learning in new and rewarding ways. - Recognition That Matters
Students who participate receive detailed feedback and may be awarded certificates ranging from Merit through to High Distinction. These achievements are excellent for student portfolios, scholarship applications, and post-school pathways, showing academic excellence and initiative. - Developing Confidence and Academic Resilience
Taking part in a national competition helps build self-belief. Whether students receive an award or not, stepping into this kind of challenge helps develop the resilience and growth mindset we value at St John Paul College. - Measuring Growth and Progress
ICAS results allow students and families to benchmark performance not just within the school, but across Australia and other participating countries. It’s a useful tool for tracking progress and setting learning goals.
We encourage all students to get involved in ICAS this year. It’s not just for the top students—it’s for anyone who wants to grow, test themselves, and take pride in their learning.
For more information, or to register your son/daughter in Years 7-10; please check the Compass message sent earlier this week or contact the College.
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
An Unmissable Faith Experience for Students in Years 9–11 – ACYF 2025
A few weeks ago in the newsletter, I shared an exciting opportunity exclusively for our Year 9 students to be part of the Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) in 2025. We are now pleased to announce that this invitation has been extended to all students currently in Years 9 to 11!
ACYF is a dynamic national gathering established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC). It brings together thousands of young people from across the country to celebrate faith, community, and the energy of youth in the Church. This event provides an incredible space for young people to grow in their relationship with Jesus, be inspired as faith-filled leaders and disciples, and experience the Church in a fresh and meaningful way.
In 2025, ACYF will be held in Melbourne. It promises to be an unforgettable few days of inspiring keynote speakers, uplifting music, powerful worship, and the chance to connect with thousands of other young Catholics.
We strongly encourage families of students in Years 9–11 to submit an Expression of Interest as we begin planning for this significant event. ACYF offers not only a transformative faith experience but also exceptional value given the scale and impact of the Festival.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact Mrs de Byl, Leader of Evangelisation.
Let’s come together to support our young people as they explore and deepen their faith through this vibrant and life-changing opportunity.
Australian Catholic Youth Festival 2025
IGNITE CONFERENCE 2025 – Expression of Interest Now Open for Years 7–12!
We are excited to invite students in Years 7–12 to take part in one of the most dynamic Catholic youth events in Australia – the Ignite Conference 2025, returning this September!
Since its beginnings in 2001, Ignite has grown into a powerful four-day experience that now attracts over 1,500 young people, ministry leaders, priests, religious, and families from all over the country. This is a conference like no other – contemporary, high-energy, faith-filled, and full of opportunities for students to grow in their relationship with Jesus and be inspired to live out their faith in the world.
Held from 25–28 September 2025 at St Laurence’s College, South Brisbane, Ignite includes:
- Live bands and passionate keynote speakers
- Workshops in leadership, creative arts, mission, culture, worship, and more
- A chance to connect with Catholic youth from across the nation
- A faith experience that is engaging, real, and relevant
This year, the DLCS is organising a group trip and generously subsidising the cost to make the experience more accessible for our families. The co-contribution per student is $390, which includes:
- Conference registration ($310)
- Bus transport to and from Brisbane
- Accommodation for the duration of the conference
We encourage all interested students and families to submit an Expression of Interest form as soon as possible so we can begin planning. Spaces are limited!
For more information or to ask any questions, please contact Mrs de Byl (Leader of Evangelisation) or Oliver Dwyer (College Youth Minister).
Don’t miss this chance to be part of something big – an experience that could transform your faith and your future.
Leader of School Evangelisation
Wellbeing Matters!
In 2025, our College has made a commitment to training our whole staff in Mental Health First Aid, and the first steps took place last week. Staff have begun a learning journey, improving their knowledge of the importance of mental health awareness. The main focus of their training has been how to notice a young person struggling with their mental health and how to lead them to appropriate support.
If you, as a parent, are worried about your child or another child's mental health, please reach out to your child's Leader of Student Wellbeing or one of our College counsellors for support.
As holidays are soon approaching, please also find additional Mental Health support resources, including online and helpline support.
A number of well-supported and research-based options for parents can be found via:
Families / Parents / Carers Resources
- Lifeline Mental Wellness during the Holiday Season webpage
- Parent Line – 1300 1300 52
- Resources for parents of Teenagers
- ReachOut Parent Coaching
There are some great online articles on various topics related to mental health and wellbeing for parents on websites such as Reach Out - Parents, Raising Children’s Network and Headspace.
The websites above contain a range of articles, however, the following may provide further assistance for parents dealing with issues or families that just would like to be better equipped to have conversations about mental health.
Some examples include:
Signs of mental health concerns in pre-teens and teenagers
Helping pre-teens and teens manage emotional ups and downs
My child struggles with mental health
How Kids Helpline can help your child
Mark Coster
Leader of Student Engagement
Year 7
This term’s theme has been ‘Relationships’ and Year 7 spent some time with their homeroom teachers on this topic. They considered what types of relationships they have in their lives, and the benefits and challenges of these relationships. Some strategies were brainstormed on how they can feed their relationships to grow them.
Jon Baldwin and Mikayla Hannaford
Year 7 Leaders of Student Wellbeing
Year 8
Year 8 have continued to thrive as we reach the halfway mark of the year. It has been wonderful to see our Year 8 cohort applying their best efforts towards their schooling and assessment tasks, and we would like to recognise many of our students' involvement in school representative sporting teams. Keep up the great work!
Over the 3 past weeks the Year 8 cohort have had a number of opportunities to develop their connection with each other, reflecting our term 2 Pastoral theme - “relationships”.
In our week 6 pastoral lesson, our students engaged in a number of activities with their homeroom teachers to learn more about each other and deepen their connection as a group. They were tasked to complete a game of bingo titled “all about me”, where each member had to seek out and learn something new about a classmate. Students then engaged in a decision game where they had to agree or disagree with statements and events that reflect their personal choice, again creating opportunity for our year group to value each others perspectives.
In Week 7, we were pleased to host the “Stronger Together” Wellbeing Night, an enriching and purposeful event aimed at fostering a stronger partnership between school and families in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of our young people. As a pilot initiative, the evening served as a valuable opportunity for parents, carers and students to come together in a shared space to learn, reflect, and collaborate on how best to nurture our wellbeing.
The night featured an insightful presentation and interactive discussions led by Rob Imerson (Pastoral Office DLCSL) and Janita Thomson (Family Partnerships DLCSL), focusing on practical strategies to support both students and parents in managing stress, building resilience, and maintaining healthy relationships. If you were unable to attend the night and would like to know more please email us.
Yesterday the Year 8 cohort participated in the “Connections that count” program. Students were presented with strategies to build healthy and respectful relationships with their peers as they navigate their teenage years.The day focused on important themes such as friendship, character, consent, sexting, image-based abuse, and empathy. They were provided with skills on how to build authentic connections within their year group and were encouraged to be upstanders rather than bystanders within their school community. We encourage parents to continue these conversations at home to support our pastoral program.
We hope that these initiatives provide your children with the skills to display love, compassion and empathy towards one another, helping to build a more inclusive and supportive year group and strengthening their sense of belonging and community at SJPC.
Year 9
At school this term, one of our key focuses has been inclusive language. We have been exploring what it means, why it matters, and how we can all make a difference in the way we communicate. Inclusive language is about choosing words that show respect for all people, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences. It helps create a safe and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
Students have explored how inclusive language can reduce misunderstanding, prevent harm, and build stronger, more respectful relationships across our school community. Whether it’s addressing someone correctly, avoiding stereotypes, or simply being mindful of our words, the impact of speaking with inclusion and kindness is powerful.
A big congratulations to the following Year 9 students who were recognised for their achievements and positive contributions with merit awards this week:
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We also congratulate Bonnie Hunter and Jusryan Dayal on winning the Best All Rounder Award these past couple of weeks.
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Well done to each of you for your hard work and positive attitude! Keep leading by example and supporting the inclusive and respectful culture we are building together at school.
Merit Awards
Below are our current Distinction Award recipients. We recognise student efforts not just at Assemblies but also within our Community throughout the year. Congratulations students.
Year 12
The College library will be opened between 9am and 12pm for Year 12 students during the winter school holidays on the following dates in July;
Week 1 - Monday 7, Tuesday 8, Wednesday 9 July
Week 2 - Monday 14, Tuesday 15, Wednesday 16 July
Several staff will be holding workshops outside these hours for specialist classes. Information regarding these workshops will be made available to the students closer to the break.
Reminder
Plan your revision and study time over the coming weeks and winter break, with reference to the HSC Trial Examination timetable posted on the HSC Curriculum Matters Google Classroom.
Year 11
Ensure you are meeting the requirements of all Week 9 and 10 Assessments.
Remember that the Curriculum Office is open to all students if you have any queries regarding procedures and processes linked to assessments. Please consult the College Assessment website, accessible via Compass under School Favourites to check dates, assessment policies and procedures.
A reminder that Year 11 students must successfully complete over 50% of in school assessments to be eligible to continue studying the HSC course of each of their subjects.
The Term 3 Final Preliminary Examination Timetable has been posted on Year 11 Curriculum Matters Google Classroom.
Year 10
A reminder for parents and carers to complete the last page of the booklet, which needs to be returned to the College in Week 9 for safe keeping, ready for the Round Table Conferences in Term 3.
Students will be presented with their ‘Curriculum Guide to Stage 6’ packs on Wednesday 25 June. They will also be given access to a website that has been designed to support families learn more about Stage 6 course options and the different pathways of study available. Please refer to the timeline below and the information in the packs.
Years 7 – 9
All students should be receiving feedback regarding their learning this semester. It is important for students to now re-evaluate Semester 1 goals and determine what they want to achieve in regard to their learning in Semester 2, and which strategies for improvement need to be implemented.
I encourage parents to ask these questions of their children;
- What are you learning? Why?
- How are you doing?
- How do you know?
- How can you improve?
- Where can you go for help?
General Reminders
It is timely that we remind students not to come to school if they are sick even if they have an assessment. It is important students are well and thinking clearly if they are to perform their best in all learning activities.
Variation of Assessment forms (VOA) are required for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 if they miss an assessment. Please refer to the appropriate policy on the Assessment Website for timeframe and evidence requirements.
Leader of Curriculum
Year 10 Ministry Leads Holy Spirit Retreat for MHOC Year 3 Students
Last week, our Year 10 Ministry students had the joy and privilege of leading a half-day retreat for the Year 3 students at Mary Help of Christians (MHOC) Primary School. The retreat focused on the theme “The Holy Spirit Gives Us Strength” and was designed to support the Year 3 students as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Throughout the morning, our Year 10 students led a variety of engaging and reflective activities that helped the younger students explore how the Holy Spirit is active in their lives. From scripture sharing and group discussions to prayer experiences and games, the day provided meaningful opportunities for the children to learn that the Holy Spirit is a constant guide, comforter, and source of strength in their journey of faith.
The Year 10 leaders showed great maturity, compassion, and enthusiasm. Their presence made a powerful impact on the younger students. It was especially moving to witness the final moments of the retreat, where both groups came together in prayer, reflecting on the message that we are never alone—God’s Spirit is always with us.
We are incredibly proud of our students for embracing this leadership opportunity, and we are thankful to the MHOC staff and students for their warm welcome and openness.
May the Holy Spirit continue to strengthen us all as we grow in faith and community.
Year 10 Ministry Stalls Raise Funds and Awareness for Vinnies Winter Appeal
This Week, our Year 10 Ministry students brought energy, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose to the school quad, running a series of Market Stalls in support of the Vinnies Winter Appeal.
With a shared goal of raising both funds and awareness for those doing it tough this winter, the students organised a fantastic recess event filled with fun, food, and community spirit. There was something for everyone — from freshly cooked pancakes and baked goods to popcorn, ice cream, and classic Aussie spiders. A lolly jar guessing competition kept students thinking (and snacking), the Weetbix challenge, the bean bag toss, and a “Treasure Not Trash” second-hand clothing shop encouraged sustainable shopping for a good cause.
In true Ministry style, the event wasn’t just about raising money — it was also about building connection and compassion. Every stall was run with enthusiasm, and the joy on students’ faces made it clear that this was more than just a fundraiser — it was a celebration of community giving.
A massive thank you to all the Year 10 Ministry students who planned, prepared, cooked, sold, and served with such generosity and good humour. Your efforts will go directly towards supporting the St Vincent de Paul Society’s work with people experiencing homelessness and hardship this winter.
Together, we showed that a little fun can make a big difference.
The VET faculty are proud to share the outstanding achievements of our Year 11 student, Olivia Marchant, who recently completed a work placement as part of her Certificate III in Business at NSW State Parliament.
Olivia had the incredible opportunity to work alongside Member for Coffs Harbour, MP Gurmesh Singh, where she contributed meaningfully to a range of parliamentary activities. Most notably, she assisted MP Singh in preparing key points for a speech advocating for improved rural healthcare—a topic close to the hearts of many in our community.
During her placement, Olivia also observed the legislative process firsthand, sitting on the backbenches through multiple parliamentary sittings, and gained invaluable insights into the workings of government. She supported parliamentary staffers, attended policy meetings focused on local issues, and showcased maturity and professionalism beyond her years.
Further cementing her commitment to public service, Olivia has recently joined the Young Nationals Committee, a significant step in her journey toward making a positive impact in regional and rural communities. We congratulate Olivia on her impressive accomplishments and look forward to seeing where her passion for politics and business takes her next!
Leader of Learning - VET
Year 8 Japanese
This semester, all Year 8 students have been working on introducing themselves in Japanese as well as 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.
Congratulations to the following students who have all achieved their black belt this Term.
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Learning Beyond the Classroom Walls
This term, our Year 9 students have embraced the outdoors with an exciting hands-on project in Outdoor Education, running through to the end of Term 2, Week 9. Working individually or in pairs, students selected from a variety of real-world tasks designed to build practical skills, environmental awareness, and teamwork.
Project options included:
- Constructing camp tools or shelters
- Creating a 3-course camp meal and cooking with hexi-stoves
- Designing outdoor gear or gadgets
- Exploring survival skills like natural water purification
- Performing campfire entertainment (songs, stories or poems)
- Publishing travel guides for bushwalks or campsites
- Testing bush tucker and researching its use
Students have been busy planning their project, gathering materials, and documenting their journey with photos and reflections. They demonstrated minimal-impact techniques, personal responsibility, and creativity — all while having a lot of fun!
The final presentations showcase their learning, problem-solving, lots of learning moments and a strong sense of connection to the natural world.
Check out some of the great moments captured during their project work!
Lex Carruthers & Olivia Franklin
AFL Juniors
Our junior team took to the field to contest the NSW Junior Schools Cup in AFL on Wednesday 11 June. Both teams were dominant from the start, winning all games comfortably. The highlight for the girls was defeating BDC for the first time in the tournament's history, 50 - 0. Both teams now progress as Coffs Region champions to the next round against the Port Region champions in Term 3.
Link to full AFL report by Kurt Marle - Coach
Open League
Our Open League team travelled to Port Macquarie to contest both the NSWCCC (Phil Tobin Cup) and NSW Schools Cup tournament on Wednesday 11 June. The boys showed great spirit and determination and held their own against all the opponents. While they will not progress in either tournament, they are to be congratulated for their passion and commitment to training. Thank you to Will Gregson and Kris Kent for coaching the boys.
Diocesan Open Football
On Thursday 12 June the Southern Diocesan Open Football Championships was contested in Coffs Harbour. Both our boys and girls teams played consistently high levels of football throughout the day, dominating the competition. Both coaches had nothing but praise for their teams. Of the girls tournament, coach Meg Pittman said, “What a brilliant day for our Open girls' football team, who went undefeated to become the Lismore Diocese South Champions! Their teamwork, determination and skills were on full display, with every player giving it their all, and the results speak for themselves. Congratulations to our girls for this fantastic achievement!” Likewise, the boys performance was outstanding, clinical and consistent, with coach Louis Van Dartel simply stating, “undefeated champions!”
Congratulations to both teams and coaching staff on a brilliant performance. Both teams now play the Northern Diocesan champions at the Synthetics on Wednesday 25 June to win the right to play the Armidale Diocese champions.
Fast 5
Our senior students participated in the annual NSW Fast 5 Netball Tournament in Port Macquarie on Friday 13 June. The day is a highly popular one for our senior students, many who participate in this tournament as their last College representative honours. All 5 teams performed admirably, enjoying the competition and challenge. Thank you to the staff who accompanied the teams, Alana Johnson and Matt Hiddlestone and to our officiating students Mia Hutchings-Dillow, Matilda Newton, Amelia Harrington and Molly Biddle.
Mountain Bike Tournament
Our SJPC Mountain Bike team took to the forest near Bonny Hills on Friday 13 June to contest the Jolly Nose MTB trails. Please see Nick Burke’s article for full details of the event. Congratulations to all our riders and to the staff, Nick Burke and Brad Poidevan who accompanied the riders.
Bill Turner Cup
Round 4 of the Bill Turner tournament saw boys compete in a tough battle against Bishop Druitt College. With a sea-sawing game of possession, neither team was able to goal in normal time, sending the game into overtime. It was during this period our boys were able to secure a 1 - 0 victory sending them into Round 6 and the quarter finals.
13s Schools Cup League
Our U13s Rugby League team played in the Schools Country Cup challenge at Geoff King Motors on Tuesday 17 June and represented the college with skill, strength, and integrity. The boys played Grafton High School in Round 1 and held their own, finishing with a 12-all draw. Round 2 saw them come up against Jetty High School with a powerful performance and a 46-6 win, moving them comfortably into Round 3, which again saw another magnificent performance against Woolgoolga High School, winning 34-6.
Thanks to their consistent efforts and exceptional teamwork, the boys will now progress to the Regional Final in Term 3.
CCC Basketball
Our Open Boys and Open Girls Basketball teams represented the school with determination and pride at the NSWCCC Open Basketball Championships in Penrith on Tuesday 17 June and Wednesday 18 June. The Open Boys started strongly with a win in their opening game and followed with a narrow loss in the second. They continued to impress throughout the tournament, matching their opponents with two to three quarters of intense, competitive play. Although they faded in the final stages of some games, their resilience and teamwork were commendable. The Open Girls faced early challenges, missing two key players and welcoming a third who arrived straight off a flight from China. Despite a slow start, they found better rhythm on day two, pushing their opponents right to the final siren. Their efforts earned them a respectable fourth place finish.Congratulations to all players, but especially to our Year 12s who represent the College in Basketball for the last time at this tournament. Some of these players have been SJPC representative basketballers since Year 7! Thank you to Maya Duncan, James Watson, Gunsanjh Brar, Arjay Robinson and Cooper Gater for your passion and leadership. Special mention to Lexi Plater and Isla Martin who could not be with the team due to injury but who have played key roles in the success of SJPC basketball in previous tournaments. A big thank you to Jessi Reeves and John Philip for their leadership and support as coaches throughout the championship.
Congratulations
- Charlie Oates (Year 11) and Harper Landrigan (Year 10) were selected for the NSW Country Union teams in 18s and 16s respectively.
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- Kira Juffermans who represented the NSWCCC 18s basketball team at the NSW Tri Series event in Sydney on Thursday 19 June was selected in the NSW All Schools basketball team. This is on the back of returning from the Nike Asia tournament in China to play CCC Open Basketball with the SJPC team before attending this tournament. Well done, Kira!
- On 6 June, Arlo Dent, as a representative of CCC Hockey, trialled for the NSW All Schools team. At this same event, his sister, Harper Dent was a NSWCCC official who umpired the games. Congratulations to both Dents!
Athletics carnival
On Friday 27 June, we will be holding our College Athletics carnival. This is a compulsory school event and we require parental acknowledgement via Compass to take the students off campus. Please ensure the Compass event is approved ASAP.
Information regarding the carnival and the progression can be found in the attachment.
Term 3 Sport - Year 9 and 10
Families are reminded that payment for Term 3 sport closes on Tuesday 1 July. Any family who needs assistance with payment deadlines needs to contact the College finance office before 1 July to organise an extension. Otherwise, any student who has not had sport payment and consent provided by 1 July will be removed from their selected sport.
Coming Up - Term 2 2025
| Monday 23 June |
Bill Turner Trophy Rd 4 game, Synthetics (11.30am) |
| Tuesday 24 June |
Cochrane Cup 14s League, Port Macquarie |
| Tues 24-Thurs 26 June |
NSWCCC Hockey Championships, Bathurst |
| Wednesday 25 June |
NSW All Schools Touch, Port Maquarie (postponed) |
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North v South Diocesan Football finals, Coffs Harbour |
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| Friday 27 June |
College Athletics Carnival, CEX Stadium (compulsory event) |
Term 3, 2025 |
| Friday 25 July |
Senior Schools Cup Regional Final, Nambucca Heads |
| Tuesday 5 August | Rugby 7’s, Coffs Harbour |
| Wed 6 & Thurs 7 August |
School boys Country Cup Northern State Finals (13s), Coffs |
| Tues 12 & Wed 13 August | Diocesan Junior Basketball Championships, Port Macquarie |
* events require students to sign up directly on the Diocesan Sport website
Leader of Sport
With 20 riders to represent SJPC, we headed down to Bonny Hills for the inter-school event at the infamously rocky ‘Jolly Nose’ MTB trails.
With a field of nearly 200 riders from all over the state, and steeper/more technical trails than usual for school events, the competition was tough! The SJPC students were amazing, giving 100% all day, representing the college with grit, camaraderie and a serious sense of fun. We also had 5 parents who were generous enough to give up a work day to spend their time pit-crewing for the hungry, thirsty, dusty riders. With all said and done, SJPC came away 2nd overall in the schools competition, and took out first place in the junior (Year 7-8) division with Max Pinder, and third place in the intermediate (Year 9-10) division with Harvey Wilhelm. Special mention to Levi Schultz who placed fourth in his first ever race, and all the riders deserve congratulations for a brilliant effort!
 Yr 8 |
 Yr 9 |
 Yr 9 |
 Yr 7 |
 Yr 10 |
 Yr 9 |
 Yr 10 |
 Yr 8 |
 Yr 8 |
 Yr 7 |
 Yr 8 |
 Yr 7 |
 Yr 10 |
 Yr 8 |
 Max Pinder |
 Yr 8 |
 Yr 9 |
 Yr 8 |
 Yr 9 |
 Yr 7 |
Year 8 Geography Fieldwork Excursion - Sealy Lookout & Diggers Beach
Last week, Year 8 students stepped outside the classroom to engage in hands-on geographical learning during a fieldwork excursion to Sealy Lookout and Diggers Beach - two of the Mid North Coast’s most picturesque and environmentally important locations.
The excursion supported the development of key geographical inquiry and fieldwork skills, a central focus of the Stage 4 Geography curriculum. Fieldwork is a mandatory and enriching part of the course, enabling students to observe, record, and interpret real-world environmental features and processes.
At Sealy Lookout, students explored the natural landscape and examined landform processes, vegetation patterns, and the influence of human activity on forest ecosystems. They also practiced important field skills, including landscape sketching, contour mapping, and geographical note-taking.
Later in the day, students moved to Diggers Beach, where they investigated coastal environments and used natural features and resources to create maps. The clear weather provided perfect conditions for fieldwork, and many students commented on how experiencing these landscapes firsthand deepened their understanding of classroom theory.
Throughout the excursion, students demonstrated outstanding behaviour, teamwork, and a genuine curiosity for the world around them. Their insightful questions and detailed observations reflected a growing awareness of the importance of sustainability and environmental management.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the staff who led and supervised the day, and to the families for their continued support. It was a highly valuable learning experience and one that will no doubt enhance students' understanding in upcoming assessments and lessons.
We look forward to many more opportunities to bring learning to life through fieldwork!
Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival
On Tuesday in Week 6, Australian children's author Jacqueline Harvey visited our school as part of the Bellingen Readers & Writers Festival school program, delivering an inspiring talk to Year 7 students about finding inspiration for writing fiction. With over 60 books to her name—including the popular Alice-Miranda and Kensy and Max series—Harvey has sold more than two million copies worldwide.
Drawing on her 20-year career in education, Harvey shared how she finds inspiration in both everyday experiences and more unusual moments. She emphasised that the spark for a story often begins with curiosity and research—into new places, different cultures, and even ancient worlds. Her engaging anecdotes and humorous delivery captivated the Year 7 audience, making the session both entertaining and educational.
Generous with her advice, Harvey encouraged students to write the kinds of stories they would enjoy reading and to look to their own lives for inspiration. Students left the session motivated and equipped with practical strategies to develop their creative writing. Her visit was a memorable and valuable experience that deepened our students’ understanding of the writing process.
Thank you for visiting Jacqueline, and thanks to Sharon Brennan in the library for facilitating the Bellingen festival's schools visit.
Bell Shakespeare visit
In Term 2 students from Years 8 and 10 were invited to a performance by the Bell Shakespeare Players. The Players are Bell Shakespeare’s touring ensemble of professional artists who bring Shakespeare to life in schools and communities across Australia. Established by renowned Actor/Director John Bell, what began in a circus tent in Sydney in 1990 has grown into a theatre company with unrivalled reach and impact, delivering mainstage productions and an education and outreach program to every state and territory, ensuring classic theatre experiences are accessible to all Australians.
The production introduced Year 8 to the language and times of William Shakespeare and to the world of drama. They are able to gain an understanding of the nature of Shakespeare's plays through an entertaining and engaging performance.
Year 10 took a closer look at the themes presented in Shakespeare's work, Macbeth, in preparation for their study later this year. The performance was interactive and this year we had a guest actor, Cory Blight, who did an amazing performance as King Duncan.
Bell Shakespeare involves students and teachers in a range of programs that take place in Sydney and around the country. We were lucky to have Mr Muschal from the drama team travel to Sydney last year to work with the Bell Shakespeare team. These kinds of experiences add to the skills and abilities of our drama teachers to inspire and mentor the next generation of dramatists.
Leader of Learning / Assistant - English
Year 7 Visual Arts: Exploring the Elements of Art through Neurographica Drawing
This term, our Year 7 Visual Arts students have been exploring the fascinating world of Neurographica – a unique and meditative drawing method that encourages creativity, mindfulness, and emotional expression. As part of their introduction to the Visual Arts curriculum, students used this technique to investigate the fundamental elements of art: line, colour, shape, and tone.
Neurographica begins with freeform lines that flow across the page, representing thoughts and emotions in an intuitive and abstract way. From there, students connect these lines to form organic shapes and intersections, which are then transformed into visually captivating artworks through the careful use of colour and tonal shading. More than just a drawing activity, Neurographica offered students the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and engage with art in a deeply personal way. The results were not only visually stunning but also rich in individual expression.
We are incredibly proud of the thoughtful, imaginative and creative work our Year 7 artists have produced.
All About Art This Term - by Brooklyn Kennedy (Year 7)
In this semester, we have explored a wide range of different techniques to create beautiful art pieces, to express our ideas through line and colour. We started by exploring line work in our art, such as organic and geometric lines. We learnt about how to use different lines to display depth and contour in our drawings, and to create a sense of feeling portrayed in our art. Then we looked at colours on the colour wheel, which we then presented in our Neurographica Artworks. We learnt about using complementary colours to create balanced compositions.
At SJPC, Staff and Students will be celebrating 25 years of Kawalazi during Term 2, 18 June - 2 July 2025. It is a time of the year we do all we can to support our sister school in Malawi.
Often good education has been seen as the key to unlocking the potential of a young person. A donation of $50 is enough to support a Kawalazi student for a whole year at school.
Attached is a sponsorship form which can be returned to the College or emailed with payment to sponsor a student.
Kawalazi Mufti Day and Sausage Sizzle - Tuesday 24 June:
Mufti Day - please wear "Red, Green & Black"- respectable clothing with enclosed shoes. Gold coin donation.
Sausage Sizzle - $3.00 in the canteen area during lunch time.
Please do all you can to support this tremendous initiative.
Many of us are feeling the cold this time of year, but whilst we have warm homes and beds to comfort us, this is not the reality for many living on the streets.
The College has started the 2025 Vinnies Winter Appeal, and we are calling on the community to donate beanies and blankets that can be given to the local conference.
So if you have any blankets and beanies you would like to donate, please give them to the College office before the end of term.
Leanne Gennat and Brett Bujeya
SJPC Vinnies Conference
THE PUSH-UP CHALLENGE 2025 is progressing at a CRACKING pace!
Our staff team has so far completed 12,500 pushups. What’s most impressive is that we now have an SJPC community participating with teams from Staff, SLT, Year 11 and Year 12. Huge congratulations to all members who have so far helped to raise $3587.00 and complete over 92,000 push ups.
There are some sore, drooping shoulders wandering through the playground. BUT heads are held high!
Special congratulations goes to our Year 11s who have encouraged 54 students to join and have been responsible for extensive fundraising.
In doing this challenge, we particularly appreciate the mental health facts that drive the daily push-up count.
THURSDAY 170 PUSH UPS - because doing at least one act of kindness every day for 7 days in a row may boost our happiness.
All funds raised will go towards mental health and crisis support services, helping to break stigmas and provide hope to those struggling with their mental health. This is Australia's largest mental health and fitness event and, since it began, over 700,000 participants have raised over $50 million for mental health programs and services.
Help us push for better mental health.
Please hit the link and donate to our staff push-up team
SJPC STAFF PUSHUP TEAM DONATION PAGE
We are so proud to be a part of this event.
Literacy Coach & Fellow Push-up Team member
Tuesday 24 June, 6:30pm - 8pm, in the Theatre
SEEN: The Film is a groundbreaking feature-length documentary that has new information and a fresh understanding about what our children and teens need most.
SEEN will encourage parents to consider how their own past may be influencing their children.
This is the film everyone is talking about, with well known and respected experts including Maggie Dent, Dr Billy Garvey and Lael Stone.
This event is sponsored by Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Parent Assembly.
Please note, this is an 18+ event.
For more information and to RSVP, please see the attached flyer.
