1 August 2025 - Newsletter (Vol 42 No 11)
- Assistant Principal - Mission
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
- Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
- SJPC Merit Award Recipients
- Leaders of Student Wellbeing
- G.O.A.T (Greatest Of All Time) Retreat
- Curriculum Matters
- Literacy Coach
- Science
- Library Matters
- Drama
- Sports Corner
- What's On!
- Office News
- We're Hiring
- Aboriginal Language Club
- Study Skills Handbook - How to Read Faster Without Losing Comprehension
- Year 9 & 11 2026 Enrolments
- SJPC Day 2025
- Family Connect in Schools
- Youth Advisory Group
- St Francis Xavier School Community Fete
Our school community has been very lucky to have renowned Australian street artist Mulga (real name Joel Moore) create a vibrant mural at the College this past week. His mural has been inspired by the voices of our students, as gathered through surveys where they were asked to identify what makes our school unique – from our Catholic identity, welcoming culture and strong sense of community to the values we live by every day. Mulga has transformed this feedback into a dynamic visual story that celebrates who we are. His bold, playful style captures the spirit, diversity, and heart of SJPC, making this mural a powerful symbol of pride and identity for our entire school community.
Importantly, this mural was also inspired by and contributes to our College Mission Goal of strengthening our Catholic identity and culture, serving as a lasting visual expression of faith, community, and the values that guide us.
Throughout the week, a number of our Visual Arts students had the opportunity to spend time with Mulga - assisting him with the mural and learning firsthand about his creative process, techniques, and the role of art in telling meaningful stories.
Mulga is a multifaceted artist, muralist, illustrator, poet, and designer. He designs a wide range of products, including prints, t-shirts, totes, and clothing, all featuring his signature playful and colourful style. He has collaborated with major global brands, including Coca-Cola, Havaianas, Red Bull, and Microsoft, among others, bringing his distinctive aesthetic to high-profile campaigns and products.
The College’s Artist in Residence is a program aimed at connecting experts in their field with the various faculties and programs on offer at the College. The program provides a one week residency designed for visiting consultants, authors, artists and other experts in their chosen field to engage staff, students and parents in an educative and immersion experience. The program aims to bring practitioners from all fields to our regional area to add value to our existing learning experiences in the areas of Mission, Teaching and Learning and Pastoral Care. The program has been running since 2010 and has included archeologists, authors, musicians, theologians, designers, artists and historians.
To see more of Mulga’s art, take a look at his website: Mulga the artist
We warmly invite parents and carers to visit the College and take a look at the mural, which is located in the B-Block Sails area. It’s a vibrant and inspiring addition to our campus that we are proud to share with you.
Assistant Principal - Mission / Leader of Learning - Visual Arts
In the coming weeks the College community will be deciding who they would like as their student leaders for the 2025/2026 cycle. These leadership positions vary from the election of College Captain through to our youngest members of the College joining the Student College Leadership team as an SRC representative for the first time. The beginning of this process along with the fact that the College virtue for week two is Leadership, presents a good opportunity to reflect on what leadership actually entails.
We don’t have to have a leadership ‘position’ to be a leader. Much can be learned from peer leadership and this can be as simple as being a good role model. Not only is it important for us to be positive role models for the young people in our care but also encourage them to be good role models for each other. In a world where influence is more accessible than ever, the role of a positive role model has never been more crucial. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, mentor, or simply someone who interacts with others in your community, your actions and attitudes can significantly shape the behaviors and beliefs of those around you. Together with this it is crucial that we monitor who our children may be looking up to online. These people can have a significant influence on young minds.
Being a good role model is not just about having the right traits; it also involves intentional actions and behaviors. Here are some practical tips for setting a positive example:
- Lead by Example: Your actions speak louder than words. Demonstrate the behaviours and values you wish to instill in others. If you want to encourage honesty, be transparent in your dealings. If you value hard work, show your commitment through your efforts.
- Communicate Openly: Foster an environment where open communication is encouraged. Share your thoughts, experiences, and feelings with those around you. This openness can help others feel comfortable expressing themselves and seeking guidance.
- Encourage Others: Actively support and encourage those who look up to you. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and provide constructive feedback when necessary. Your encouragement can motivate them to strive for their goals.
- Be Authentic: Authenticity is key to being a relatable role model. Share your struggles and vulnerabilities, as well as your successes. This honesty can help others see that everyone faces challenges and that it’s okay to seek help or make mistakes.
- Practice Self-Care: Taking care of your own well-being is essential for being an effective role model. Prioritize your physical, mental, and emotional health so that you can be present and supportive for others. When you model self-care, you encourage others to do the same.
- Stay Informed: Continuously educate yourself about the issues and challenges faced by those you aim to inspire. This knowledge can help you provide relevant guidance and support, making you a more effective role model.
Be a Good Role Model: Tips for Setting a Positive Example
As parents and carers we have the most influence on our children (although at times it may not feel like it). It’s not only our responsibility to be a good role model but also encourage our children to be. They can become a positive role model who inspires and uplifts those around them.
Until next time:
Classroom Code of Conduct & Entry & Exit Routines
At last week’s College Assembly I asked students to focus on three key messages: our shared expectations, their role in their own learning, and the routines that will help them succeed.
The updated Code of Conduct is built on the core values and notions of Dignity, Engagement, Responsibility, Respect, Cooperation, and the Right to feel Safe and the Right to Learn.
They are the foundation of how we behave, how we treat each other, and how we make sure every single student in this community has the opportunity to grow. I asked the students to consider the following:
When we speak of dignity, we mean recognising the worth in every person—your classmates, your teachers, and yourself.
Engagement means being present and active in your learning—not just showing up physically, but mentally and emotionally.
Responsibility is about owning your actions, your learning, and your progress.
Respect underpins how we interact—with kindness, with boundaries, and with maturity.
Cooperation is the reminder that none of us succeed alone—we succeed together.
And most importantly, we all have the right to learn and feel safe. That means no student should ever feel that their learning is being disrupted or diminished by the actions of others.
To support students further, The College has introduced new classroom routines for how we begin and end each lesson. These routines are simple, consistent and purposeful.
But WHY do we need entry and exit routines? They create a sense of structure, focus and purpose.
A consistent start to each lesson helps students transition calmly and quickly into learning, setting a clear tone and expectation from the moment you walk in; the first step to being engaged.
Structured endings provide time for reflection, organisation, and check your understanding of the Learning Intention and Success Criteria.
These routines support a positive learning environment where time is maximised and every student knows what to expect and what is expected of them.
These routines are not only about structure - they are about creating a predictable environment where every student can feel ready to learn and finish strong.
In closing, I asked students to commit to something more than just turning up. I then asked students to make a conscious choice and a decision for their own learning this term.
I would ask parents and families to consider these two graphics and reinforce their message and how they will benefit the learning culture at SJPC.
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
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 9
We’re pleased to share that Term 3 has kicked off with a positive and focused start across the year group. Students have returned with great energy, ready to engage in their learning and make the most of the term ahead.
A big congratulations to Jake Callander, Jasper Ferguson, and Miguel Mendoza, who have each received a College Commendation Award. Congratulations also goes to Grace Bjorksten who was our Best Allrounder last week. These awards recognise students who consistently demonstrate outstanding effort, leadership, and a positive attitude in and out of the classroom. Well done to these students for setting such a great example.
This term, our pastoral focus is on leadership and stewardship. This includes helping students explore what it means to lead with purpose and serve others, inspired by the model of Jesus in the Gospels. Through reflection and discussion, students will be encouraged to recognise the unique gifts, talents, and opportunities God has given them, and how these can be used to make a positive difference. Leadership comes in many forms. This can include leadership in the classroom, on the sporting field, in the playground, at home, or later in life as a parent or role model.
We are also looking forward to our Pastoral Day on Wednesday 6 August, which will be a key moment in our wellbeing calendar. The day will feature a range of engaging activities and workshops, including a special session with guest presenter Michael Fitzpatrick, known for his dynamic and inspiring presentations. It promises to be a valuable opportunity for students to reflect, connect, and grow.
We’re excited for what the rest of the term holds.
G.O.A.T. is a gathering for Year 10 male students from parish secondary schools in the Diocese of Lismore to celebrate their faith at a Diocesan level.
The overnight experience involves activities that focus on inspiring young men to embrace their purpose and passion as young Catholic men. G.O.A.T. is designed to provide students with a transformative faith experience as they embark on their journey through manhood, guided by the life of Jesus, the saints and the teachings of the Catholic Church. The retreat emphasises their capacity to become a gift of service to others by living out a radical adventure as a young Catholic man.
On Thursday, 24 and Friday, 25 July, 12 year 10 boys from a mix of the ministry class and other classes had the opportunity to go to G.O.A.T this year. Throughout the retreat the boys were challenged not only physically but as well as spirituality through a powerful event designed to bring young men towards the faith and truly explore what it means to be a young Catholic Male.
The Event included many physical challenges including high ropes and a commando course, as well as powerful keynote speakers, Mass, Squad debriefs, and nighttime prayer sessions. All aimed to give these year 10 boys a sense of place and purpose within the Catholic Church.
The Students left the conference with not only a sense of place but as well as a sense of brotherhood with a commitment to be there for one another when they are struggling and become more involved with their own faith journey.
Overall G.O.A.T retreat was an incredible opportunity for our year 10 boys this year providing a safe space for our students to become men of faith in our school community.
Oliver Dwyer
College Youth Minister
Year 12
It was wonderful to see Year 12 students utilise the College library during the winter holidays as a study venue and utilising the extended Homework Centre hours in week 2. A big thank you to the staff who volunteered to work with our students during this break, for their time and expertise.
We remind students of the following;
- you do not attend timetabled classes during the HSC Trial Examination period
- you are encouraged to use the College library when not in exams to continue your preparation.
- read the Assessment Block Students Information on Google Classroom so that you understand the examination protocols and your responsibilities.
- if ill or late due to misadventure, ring/email the school immediately.
- keep up to date with resources and NESA information via this link HSC Student Guide
Year 11
A reminder that the Year 11 Final Examination period starts on Wednesday 3 September and finishes Friday 12 September.
The examination timetable is available on the Year 11 Curriculum Matters Google Classroom, as are the instructions for students.
Students will not be attending timetabled classes during this time.
We encourage students to have a nightly study regime in place in the lead up to this examination block, and to make effective use of the many resources the College provides. It is also important to maintain a routine that includes a good night’s sleep, healthy eating and exercise.
Subject Selection Year 10
The Parent and Student Curriculum Information Evening was held in the College Hall on Wednesday 23 July. It was a wonderful opportunity to speak with parents and their children about the options and requirements for Stage 6 study pathways, and for you to meet specialist teachers, receiving specific answers to any questions that you may have had.
Thank you to all those 10 students who have been submitting their signed Course Selection forms to the Curriculum Office. If you have yet to do this please submit the signed form to confirm that your parents/carers are aware of your choices.
We will continue to keep parents, carers and students up to date over the coming weeks.!
Term 3 Elevate Webinars
These live sessions are designed to help keep parents up to date with the study skills strategies students are being taught in class, as well as offer insights into how parents can best support learning at home.
Click here to register for free
Term 3, 2025 Webinars
How to Get (And Keep!) Your Child Motivated
August 6, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
How You Can Make Technology an Ally (& Not the Enemy!)
August 20, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
How to Help Your Child Improve Their Note Taking
September 3, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
How You Can Support Your Child During Exams
September 17, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
It is timely to remind ALL students of their responsibilities as learners.
Your teachers are designing and setting activities that will help you develop the knowledge, understanding and skills that are important throughout life. Trust them and engage with your course work
Leader of Curriculum
LITERACY MATTERS
ALL THINGS LITERACY, BECAUSE LITERACY MATTERS IN ALL THINGS
IN AN AGE WHERE INFORMATION FLOWS CONSTANTLY, BEING GLOBALLY AWARE IS CRUCIAL.
As students navigate through their secondary years, we inevitably focus on their academic achievements and progress. However, just as important is the subject of global awareness and staying informed about current events.
AND, staying globally aware builds crucial literacy skills!
Critical Thinking: The news, particularly online and via social media, is a mix of facts, opinions, and sometimes misinformation. By engaging with current events, students learn to critically evaluate and scrutinise sources, identify bias, and distinguish between reliable information and fake news - a fundamental literacy skill for the digital age. This empowers them to be informed citizens, not just passive consumers of information.
Empathy and Understanding: Learning about different cultures, global challenges (like climate change, humanitarian crises, or economic shifts), and diverse perspectives helps teenagers develop empathy and a deeper appreciation for humanity and encourages them to consider the impact of global events on real people.
Curiosity and Passion: Current events often touch upon every subject taught in school. A news story about a scientific breakthrough, an international agreement, or a historical anniversary can ignite a passion that might lead to a future career or a lifelong interest.
Vocabulary and Background Knowledge: Every new crisis or scientific discovery builds vocabulary, terminology and concepts, improving ability to comprehend increasingly complex texts and understand future information.
Engaged Citizens: Being informed is the first step towards becoming an active and responsible citizen. Globally aware teens are more likely to participate in their communities, advocate for causes they believe in, and contribute to positive change, both locally and internationally.
Writing & Communication: The discussion of global issues requires an ability to articulate clear thoughts with supportive evidence and consideration of counterarguments. This directly translates to stronger essay writing and persuasive communication.
I encourage the open display of curiosity where we watch and read the news from a diverse range of sources and engage in rich discussions. Let’s explore multiple perspectives and promote ‘why?’ and ‘how?’ responses. Let's build powerful, informed and curious minds as we nurture literate individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of information, and express themselves powerfully.
Literacy Coach
Year 9 Forensic Science
Year 9 students were treated to a Forensic Science workshop run by a Sydney company called Education Interactive.
Students were able to get a glimpse into the world of a forensic scientist and explore real forensic science techniques like DNA profiling, Fingerprinting, digital evidence and more to solve the case and catch the criminal.
This is a great opportunity for students to experience the application of real world science and the different career paths that involve science.
Adjustment to Homework Centre Operating Hours and Pick-up Times
To ensure the continued smooth and safe operation of the Homework Centre, we are implementing a small but important change to our closing times.
The Homework Centre will remain available to students on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday afternoons.
To ensure our staff are able to supervise students effectively and manage their own responsibilities, we are formalising the following schedule:
- Final Pick-up for Students: All students who are being collected by a parent or guardian must be picked up from the Bus Bay no later than 4:45 PM.
- Students Driving Themselves: Students with their own vehicles may depart by 5:00 PM.
This adjustment is being made in response to an increasing number of late pick-ups, which requires staff to remain on-site well beyond what we believe is appropriate. Your support in ensuring a timely pick-up is appreciated. This will ensure the sustainable operation of the Homework Centre.
Thank you for your understanding.
Leader of Learning Technologies
Year 8 Drama Enrichment Day
At the end of Term 2, 32 enthusiastic Year 8 students experienced an exciting and immersive introduction to the world of Drama.
Throughout the day, students explored the basics of spatial awareness, characterisation, movement, vocal expression, and playbuilding. They played drama games, created short performances, and most importantly, laughed together and celebrated each other’s creativity.
Congratulations to all who participated and gave it their all. A big thank you to Mr Muschal and Mrs Cotton for organising and leading such a fun, engaging day.
During the session, students brought to life both comedic and dramatic characters, experimented with lifts, and built imaginative scenes as a team. It was a wonderful introduction to the collaborative and expressive world of Drama.
We encourage students to consider choosing Drama as an elective in 2026. The full course will offer a deeper dive into topics like musical theatre, clowning, filmmaking, physical theatre, and more. It will also feature exciting opportunities including excursions, Eisteddfods, Shakespeare festivals, a Sydney trip, and performance showcases.
For more information about this dynamic and rewarding subject, please get in touch with the Drama faculty—we’d love to chat with you!
Teacher - Drama/English
Country Cup 13s Rugby League
On Wednesday, 23rd July, the Under 13 Boys Rugby League team proudly represented our College at the Regional Finals of the Country Cup, held in Coffs Harbour. The team performed exceptionally well, finishing as runners-up on the day – an outstanding achievement!
Congratulations to all players for their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
A sincere thank you to Mr Michael Stubbs and Mr Kris Kent for their commitment and guidance in coaching the team, both at training and during the competition. We also extend our thanks to Levi Newton and Cooper Shaw for their valuable support in assisting with the coaching.
Well done to everyone involved!
Cochrane Cup 14s Rugby League
On Thursday, 24th July, our Under 14 Boys Rugby League team competed in the Northern State Finals of the Cochrane Cup in Coffs Harbour. The team delivered an outstanding performance throughout the day, progressing impressively to the grand final.
In a thrilling and hard-fought match, the boys narrowly missed out on victory, going down 30–28 to St Paul’s College, Kempsey, in the final moments of the game. Despite the result, the team should be incredibly proud of their effort, resilience, and sportsmanship.
We extend our sincere thanks to Mr Michael Stubbs and Mr Kris Kent for their dedication and leadership in coaching the team. Special thanks also to Levi Newton and Cooper Shaw for their valuable support throughout the competition.
AFL Senior Schools Cup
Our Open Boys AFL team had a strong showing at the AFL North Coast Senior Schools Cup, starting the day with two dominant wins over Hastings Secondary College and St Columba Anglican School from Port Macquarie to secure their place in the final. Goal kickers throughout the day included Ashton Herbert, James Watson, Sonny Colyer, and Iggy Hibberd.
Despite their early success, the boys faced a well-drilled Mackillop College side in the final and were unable to come away with the win. Congratulations to the team on a fantastic effort and for representing the school with determination and pride. Thanks to Mr Kurt Marle and Mr Matthew Quinton for all the time and effort they put into coaching and supporting the team.
Year 9/10 Sport Selections Term 4
Sport selections open at 9am on Monday 11 August and close at 9am on Wednesday 13 August 2025. Information will be emailed to parents and students next week. Before making selections, parents/carers and students are encouraged to consider and discuss equipment requirements, the cost of the activity and the risks involved as it may not be possible to make any changes. Students are asked to check their selections on the Palace noticeboard on Thursday 15 August.
Coming Up - Term 3 2025
Term 3, 2025 |
| Monday 4 August |
Bill Turner Trophy Rd 5, Coffs Harbour |
|
Bill Turner Cup Rd 5, Port Macquarie |
|
| Tuesday 5 August |
Rugby 7’s, Coffs Harbour |
| Friday 8 August |
NSW All Schools Touch 7/8, Port Macquarie |
| Tues 12 & Wed 13 August | Diocesan Junior Basketball Championships, Port Macquarie |
| Thursday 14 August | CCC Knockout Football Jnr & Snr Girls, Coffs Harbour |
| Tuesday 19 and 20 August | Bill Turner Rd 6 and semi’s, Coffs Harbour |
| Thursday 21 August | AFL Junior Schools cup Northern State Finals, Warners Bay |
| Wednesday 27 August | Netball Cup Regional Finals, Port Macquarie |
| Tuesday 2 September | Diocesan Athletics Carnival, Coffs Harbour |
| Thursday 11 September | Rugby 7’s State Finals, Sydney |
* events require students to sign up directly on the Diocesan Sport website
Acting Leader of Sport
SJPC Virtual Tour
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
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.
Family Connect Service at SJPC
Our school, Social Futures and the Catholic Schools Office are in partnership to integrate the Family Connect in Schools Service into our school.
The Family Connect in Schools Service helps families to connect in with a wide range of services in the community. They can also accompany families to service appointments and case manage a support plan if a family needs a significant variety of services.
St Francis Xavier Primary School is holding a Fete on Saturday 25 October from 12pm - 4pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy an afternoon of fun rides, food trucks, great stalls, and entertainment.
We would like to invite any past SFX students who are interested in volunteering for an hour on the day to run the Crazy Hair, Facepaint and Tattoo Stall to fill out this Google Form.