Week 4 Term 3 2024

Message from the Principal

The celebration of the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of our holy days of obligations celebrated by Catholics around the world.  Pope Francis challenges us to take this special time to reflect on our own worldviews and how they align with the messages of this feast day. Do I believe that to love is to reign, and to serve is power?  Do I worry only about having a good time on earth? Am I concerned only with worldly, material things? As members of the universal church, he asks us to observe world events and ask the following question: ‘Do I let myself be entrapped by pessimism or, like the Virgin, am I able to discern the work of God who, through gentleness and smallness, achieves great things?’  At our Mass, we shared the message of hope that Mary represents and the challenge for us to find ways in our daily life to serve others and give generously. Here at the College, we have many opportunities for our community to live in this way.

With Mary as our example, we began a process of discernment for our future student leadership team.

Leadership is often described as daring and is driven by: 

• Courage
• Impact
• Kindness
• Support
• Collectivism

This week we had the pleasure of listening to our future Senior Leadership teams' speeches and spending time with each candidate discussing their views on leadership and the concept of the ‘Woodlawn Way’. Our parents should be so proud of the way their children presented themselves and articulated their responses to these questions. One of the areas that interested me the most was the question of who did they believe was a great example of past student leaders and what qualities did they possess? Kudos to our current leaders who were nominated for their empathy, inclusivity, and passion for the College and all that we stand for. They spoke about the authenticity of our current leadership team, their availability, and the connections they have fostered. We look forward to celebrating their leadership in the coming weeks.

The ‘Woodlawn Way’ and its articulation is one of the recommendations of both the recent Mission and ACER reviews. I will be working with all sectors of the College to develop a common understanding of the unique ‘vibe’ that was expressed by our future leaders. 

Our Student Engagement Plan also outlines our underpinning values of Faith, Integrity, Relationships, and Empathy (FIRE). The Year 11s spoke of initiatives to further develop the relationships between Year and Home Groups and there was general consensus that the ‘hobby horse gymkhana’ was being adopted as an inclusive activity for all Home Group members. 

When we think of being a "Woodlawner" we also seek to remember those who have shared the College since its inception in 1931. Last week we were invited to Southern Cross University to attend the 20th Anniversary of the Father Tony Glynn Japan-Australia Centre Gallery. This was a very special occasion where we were privileged to meet the Japanese delegation from Nara. Nara is the site of the Catholic centre which was founded by another of our old boys, Father Lionel Marsden. Following an horrendous period of imprisonment by the Japanese in World War 2, Father Marsden returned to Japan intent on establishing a centre of reconciliation with his former captors. This centre flourished and Father Tony Glynn continued Father Marsden's work. Thanks to Matilda Price, Lachlan Kennelly, and Mrs Debbie Melino for accompanying me to this moving celebration.

We also attended the funeral of Father John Kelly. Father John was a student at Woodlawn in the early 1950s where he was known for his sense of humour, his conviction to his faith, and his commitment to ensuring that everyone was safe and welcome. We were honoured to receive a copy of the letter John had written to his family in 1952 telling them that he was going to join the priesthood. The SRC and I reflected on the power of his handwritten declaration written in the corridors of the place we now gather. There has been much to reflect upon regarding our traditions and our links to the past. Something we intend to explore further. 

I had the pleasure of meeting 27 of our Year 7 students and congratulating them for their work ethic, their classroom behaviour, and the strength of their commitment to being the best versions of themselves daily. These students received commendations affirming the fact that we value and appreciate their efforts. I also congratulated the Year 12 cohort prior to their examinations: over one-third of the year group were receiving Commendation Certificates for their excellence in these areas. We are looking forward to celebrating them over the coming weeks as we move to Graduation week.

With the convictions of Mary at the centre of our thoughts I would like to encourage you to support your students' participation in the 'Walk a Mile in My Shoes' campaign. At the heart of our commitment to solidarity and service is our fundraising for the La Valla School for students with disabilities in Cambodia. Our relationship with the school is embedded in our psyche. Along with the Immersion Program for Year 10 students,  we actively seek to raise awareness and valuable funds through this campaign. Please take the time to view this clip of our service, our witness, and of our experiences with these children whom society has forgotten. 

Included is a flyer for a webinar that focuses on youth mental health and engages parents in an understanding of innovative and practical strategies to reshape the future of your child's mental health. 

Thanks to our families who contact the College to clarify misunderstandings or to learn more about processes that are unique to them. It is through positive, engaging communication that we can work in partnership to enhance the learning experiences of your child as we endeavour to help them ‘live life to the full’.

Take Care,
Annette Reen
Principal 2024

Message from the Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching

Trial HSC
Our Year 12 students are approaching the conclusion of their Trial HSC Examinations and have demonstrated commendable composure and dedication throughout the process. Their punctuality, focus, and organisation have been excellent. As a collective, the staff eagerly anticipate celebrating their achievements and recognising the hard work they’ve put into their studies. As they enter the final five weeks of their secondary education, we encourage them to remain steady and focused, regardless of the outcomes they may face. Success and setbacks are part of the journey, and maintaining a balanced perspective and a clear action plan will be key to their continued progress. The Trial HSC will conclude on Monday, August 19, with regular classes resuming for all Year 12 students on Tuesday, August 20. Examination feedback will be provided within two weeks, offering valuable insights during this critical preparation phase for their final HSC Examinations.

Year 11 2025 Subject Selections
The subject offerings for Year 11 2025 are being finalised over the next few weeks. The final offers will be forwarded to families as soon as possible. This is a reminder that all subject offers are based on sufficient student interest while working within budgeting and staffing constraints. We thank the Year 10 cohort for the mature approach in which they have engaged with the process.  

Year 11 Exams
Our Year 11 students will sit their end-of-course examinations starting in Week 7, from Thursday, September 5, through to Thursday, September 12 (Week 8). The examination timetable has already been released. Students should begin their preparation by consolidating their notes and setting aside dedicated study time for each subject. They are encouraged to seek guidance from their teachers on how best to prepare and what areas to focus on.

RFL
The next round of the Responsibility for Learning (RFL) framework will be completed by Friday, 23 August. The RFL report offers valuable insights into students' engagement with Classroom Behaviour and Classroom Practice. We encourage families to discuss with their children how they feel they are progressing in this round of the RFL and to foster positive conversations that support students in achieving their best. Previous RFL reports are available in Compass on the student profile page under the reports tab. The RFL criteria can also be found in the student planner for reflection.

 Thank you for your continued support and active participation in your child’s education.

Matthew Bailey
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
matthew.bailey@lism.catholic.edu.au

Message from the Leader of School Evangelisation

Festa Christi 
Each year, the Lismore Diocese provides continued opportunities for student discipleship formation and faith development. Last week, nine Year 8 Boys and ten Year 8 girls attended the overnight Festa Christi Retreat, held at the Coffs Adventure Centre, Bonville. Students were brought together from across the Diocese to meet like-minded peers and to celebrate and meet with other young people who are on their faith journeys. 

This year's theme was ‘Walking in another person’s shoes’, having the students overcoming their fears and gaining a greater awareness of social justice. The program also included time for prayer and reflection and concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist.

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SHINE 2024
Next week Thursday, August 22 to Friday, August 23, Year 9 and 10 Ministry Classes, along with Senior Ministry Students in Year 11 and 12, will attend the annual SHINE Conference. The Lismore Diocese has continually grown and improved this event over the past 13 years, to make it an event where other dioceses are now interested in attending with their students. This year, the theme is “Burn,” and to continue the flame of the Holy Spirit within our community. 

SHINE 2024 Spotify Playlist 

Students need to bring:

• Sleeping Bag
• Pillow
• Thin yoga type mattress if you want some comfort
• Drink bottle
• Covered shoes
• Modest casual clothes
• Sleepwear
• Jumper/something warm
• Toiletries

Kallie Deegan
kallie.deegan@lism.catholic.edu.au 
Leader of School Evangelisation

Rugby News

14s Girls Rugby - Mr Jack Blaine

Gala Day 1 - Our 14 Girls' Rugby 7s  team showcased outstanding performance and teamwork at the recent Gala day, truly embodying the spirit and heart of Girls' Rugby at our school. The girls played with determination, skill, and an unwavering sense of camaraderie, demonstrating the power of working together and staying positive.

Throughout the matches, each player contributed to the team’s success, whether by making crucial tackles, swift passes, or strategic plays. Their ability to support one another on and off the field was evident, with every member playing an integral role in their collective achievements.

A special commendation goes to the team for their resilience which was apparent even during challenging moments. Their persistent encouragement and teamwork led to some fantastic tries and defensive plays, showcasing the strength that comes from unity.

Gala Day 2 

The St Johns Under 14’s Girls Team kicked the day off playing with great tenacity and skill. Each player brought her A-game, with standout performances from both our seasoned players and those new to the sport.

What was most impressive, however, was the way the team supported one another, both on and off the field. Their camaraderie and teamwork were key to their success, as they communicated effectively, covered each other’s positions, and celebrated each other’s achievements. 

We are incredibly proud of each player on the Under 14 Girls Rugby 7s Team with standouts being Taleah Eades and Maggie Aylward in both attack and defence. I look forward to what the future brings if this team continues to improve at the rate they are improving at. 

16’s Girls Rugby 7’s - Coach, Mrs Bethany Cani

The St John’s College Under 16’s Girls Rugby 7’s Team had a fantastic two days of competition at the Alex Gibbon Cup Championships in Evans Head. The players showed amazing skill and ability to work as a team. The girls were undefeated at the end of day 1 and continued to be undefeated up until the Grand Final against Lindisfarne at the end of the second day where they lost in the last 30 seconds of the game, 12-15. 

The Woodlawn defence was impenetrable with special mention to Ilaria Blenkhorn, Macy Field, Bridie Williams, Matilda McCombie, and Chloe Weston for their defensive ability. There were lots of amazing points scored throughout the two days with Annie Parrish scoring the first runaway try on day two and Madison Coppola scoring many points throughout all eight games. Ruby Johnston, Georgia Kennelly, Mimi Bolam, and Charlie Webster showed their speed and determination making many solid runs throughout the two days and scoring some points as well. It was great to see all the girls trying their best and continuing to develop their rugby skills. The team finished the two days with nearly every team member scoring at least one try. 

A special mention is given to Madison Coppola who was Captain of the team and is to be commended on her positivity, inclusiveness, and the team prayer she led the team through before each game. Thanks to Olivia Weston for assisting the coach on both days.

Thanks,  to the girls for a thoroughly enjoyable two days together. We are now off to Sydney for the State Finals.

16’s Boys Rugby 7’s 

Our 16’s Boys Rugby 7’s Team had a great time participating in the Alex Gibbon Cup at Evans Head. The team consisted of a strong group of players and this was evident from the success the boys had over the two days. They won all of their 6 group games having only 3 tries scored against them in these games. Their attack was just as impressive with their closest win being a solid 37-10 over Trinity Catholic College. Unfortunately, the boys suffered an upset loss in their Semi-Final game against Lindisfarne going down 15-5 in what was a crafty win by the opposition. 

The team played some fantastic football and demonstrated impressive skills over the two days. Rugby 7’s is a game which requires great speed and fitness and the 16’s Boys rose to the occasion. Tom Mahon and Will Mosse were the standout performers over the two days having scored in excess of 10 tries each. The entire team is to be commended for the manner in which they represented the College and for demonstrating sportsmanship and respect to all other teams on the day. Well done boys!

Opens Boys - Coach, Seamus Reen

The Open Boys Rugby 7’s Team enjoyed some tough competition during the two days of the Alex Gibbon Cup. Thanks to some slow starts from our team, we managed to get some hard fought wins on the ‘Gala Day’ stage of week one. 

During the competition phase, St John’s were put to the test early, going down in a dominant display to Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School. They struggled to adjust to playing on the small fields and were outplayed across the park. The rest of the day was a great success, with wins over Maclean High School (twice) and our old rivals Trinity Catholic College. Unfortunately, Ballina Coast High School left at lunchtime so we were left short a game. Due to the unusual format of the Opens Competition, Lindisfarne was declared the winner without a final. Thomas Welman was our best on the day, showing his athleticism and high level of skill. Billy Beston tried his hardest and was relentless in defence. 

Special thanks to Cooper Boland for his tireless work on the sideline,  we couldn’t have done it without him!  

Simon Andrews
simon.andrews@lism.catholic.edu.au 
Sports Coordinator

Basketball News

Year 7/8 Girls Dio Basketball
Woodlawn’s first game was against Xavier Catholic College, Skennars Head.  The girls played well as a team and came away with a win 24–13.  Evaline Doriean and Aaliyah Garang-Hall dominated inside driving hard to the basket and top scoring.  Tully Sedelaar led the guards Mia Sharpley and Adelaide McFarlane who ran the floor well with their fast breaks.  Remy Anderson’s defence kept the Xavier team in check preventing them from scoring easy baskets.

Our second game was against Mackillop Catholic College the eventual winner of the tournament.  Woodlawn came out strong but could not match the well-drilled MacKillop team and had a loss.

The next day in the Semi-Final we played John Paul College for a place in the Grand Final.  We started very strongly with McKenzie Olivieri leading the way with intense defence.  This kept us in touch only being down 5 points at halftime.  Even with Aaliyah and Evaline working hard both ends under the ring JPS finally defeated us 34–21.  This was a great result.

Year 9/10 Girls Dio Basketball
We drew a tough game first up against the tournament winners John Paul College.  The girls put in a great effort but could not keep up with the champion team.  Our second game was against Port Macquarie Regional who are also a well-drilled team and proved too strong giving us our second loss.  The team had settled in now and with Scarlett Johnston leading the way the rest of the team gained confidence.

The final game of the tournament was against Mount St Patricks, Murwillumbah.  Maggie Lynch had a great game dominating under the ring and blocking shots to keep Mount St Pat’s from scoring easy shots.  Playing man-to-man defence suited our new players with Lacee Faber, Chloe Ryall, and Lily Cluff putting pressure on and causing turnovers from the opposition.  Scarlett Johnston had an impressive game both defensively and top-scoring again for the team.  This being our best game, we came away with a win 22–15.  A well earnt result.

Tammie Creary
Coach

Attendance

Going on a Family Holiday/Family Event?
Less than 10 days: Please notify the school that your student will be absent via the Compass Absence feature or email lisjc-studentservices@lism.catholic.edu.au 
More than 10 days: Complete Form 01 Extended Leave Notification.

Does your student compete or attend Elite Sports Programs?
Also includes talented identification programs run by the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation.
Complete Form 05 Exemption from Attendance General.

Does your student attend Elite Arts Programs?
Accredited Elite Arts programs are defined as an opportunity for a student to participate in an event or program that is beyond the gifted and talented opportunities that the Diocese offers.
Complete Form 05 Exemption from Attendance General.

Late Arrival
Students arriving after 8.55 am, need to enter via the Student Service Office. Please submit late arrivals via the Compass Submit Attendance Note feature. 

Early Departure
Please use the Compass Submit Attendance Note feature to notify of early departure. The Student Services Office cannot guarantee your student to be ready for an early departure without adequate notification.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zone
Reminder the drop-off and pick-up zone is located between the school and the ovals at the back of the school. Please do not collect your student from the front entrance due to safety reasons.

Instructions for entering details into Compass to submit absence/ late arrival/ early departure (alternatively see attached pdf for instructions)

• Log into your Compass account

• Click on the +Shortcuts symbol at the bottom of the page

• Select Submit Attendance Note

• Select Reason

• Add Details/Comments

• Select the date and time that your child will be collected or absent

• Select the End date as the date or time your child will be returning to school (or 3.15pm if they are not returning to school that day)
• Select Potentially Affected Sessions 

• Hit Add Attendance Note at the bottom of the page.

Lost Property
Lost Property is located outside the Student Services Office. Please clearly label all items that are brought or worn to school.

Student Services Office
Lisjc-studentservices@lism.catholic.edu.au
6626 2629

Canteen News

Flexischools orders has a cut-off time of 9.00am.

The cash free way to pay! - REGISTER NOW
Paying for lunches is now safer and hassle free. With cashless cards there's no need for students to bring cash to school.

The College has Flexischools to allow students to pay at the Canteen using their existing student ID card. Paying for lunches and items at recess or lunch is now safer and hassle free. With cashless cards there's no need for students to bring cash to school. Parents can set daily spending limits and view transactions online. Parents can also top-up funds at any time.

The Canteen has introduced a Fast-Track line for students who have pre-ordered to collect their lunches, making it much easier and quicker for students.

We encourage all students to register. This will allow for those days when your student may have forgotten their homemade lunches.

Please follow the link below to register now:

Uniform Shop

The Woodlawn Uniform Shop is proudly managed by P&C Uniforms.
To ensure you have an easy and pleasant experience while ordering uniforms, we encourage you to order online ahead of time for easy click-and-collect in store. 

Uniform Shop Opening Hours:
Time: Monday 8.00am - 9.30am & Wednesday 11.00am - 2.00pm
Where: Colin Centre
Order Online: www.sjcwuniformshop.com.au 
Book a fitting: www.sjcwuniformshop.com.au/bts-appointments

Second Hand Uniform Shop Opening Hours:
Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm
When: Every Wednesday
Where: Colin Centre 

Leanne Copeland
Uniform Shop Convenor
0407 739 237 

Community News