Week 10 Term 2 2021
From the Acting Principal
This is the final newsletter for Term 2 and what a busy, productive term it has been. It is pleasing to finally see the College return to ‘near normal’, given the challenges we all faced last year. Our students certainly rose when faced with adversity and are to be commended for their resilience.
‘St John’s Day’ was celebrated today in honour of our patron Saint. It was a fantastic way to end a busy semester with students fully engaged in a wonderful community building event that was organised by our Year 12 students. The day began with an academic assembly where we celebrated the successes of our students who go above and beyond to produce outstanding work. I would like to thank Fr Bing, our Parish Administrator, who led us in a celebration of the Eucharist. Catholic Education is far more than just academic rigour. Woodlawn is tight-knit community that works together to ensure faith, academic and wellbeing outcomes of all are attained.
I wish our students and their families a safe holiday and look forward to seeing the students refreshed for the commencement of a busy Semester 2.
Term 2 Awards
Congratulations to the following students on receiving awards at the Academic Assembly this morning:
Silver Badges:
Year 10: Darcey Allen, Lucinda Bell and Mark Wright
Year 11: Molly George, Ashleigh Moran and Jaya Morphett
Year 12: Grace Parrish and Lachlan Watts
The Eagle Award was instituted in 2021 to recognise students’ sustained academic excellence across any field of study offered by the College. The P&F have kindly donated funds to reward students who have submitted outstanding work. I would like to congratulate the following two students for receiving the Eagle Award Term 2:
Grace Carey (Year 12) and Oliver Mason (Year 9)
The following students are also to be commended on being nominated for an Eagle Award:
Year 12: Katelyn Bodley, Molly O’Toole, Ossian Quinn-Jarvis and Isabella Wilson
Year 11: Emmeline Taylor and Maddison Towers
Year 10: Zoe Corkery, Oliver Shearman, Mark Wright and Marnie Morton
Year 9: Eliza Lamas
Year 8: Nina Leslie
Year 7: Ava Allan, Tom McPhee and Kieren Weekes
Term 3
We welcome back Mr Beach from his well-deserved break.
A reminder that the term commences with a Staff Development Day on Monday 12 July. This day is a pupil free day to enable staff to collaboratively engage in curriculum design to improve the learning outcomes of our students.
Some of the events on the College Calendar early in Term 3 include:
- Year 8 Reflection Day – Monday 12 July
- Year 10 Refection Day – Tuesday 13 July
- HSC Events: Lights Up Drama Showcase and Art Exhibition – Tuesday 20 & Wednesday 21 July
- Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews – Friday 23 July
Michael Campbell
Acting Principal
michael.campbell@lism.catholic.edu.au
Head Heart Hands
As a lifelong learner I have had the opportunity of attending a range of workshops over the past two weeks. At the forefront of these professional development sessions were the key themes of restorative relationships, wellbeing and the links to our underpinning Catholic Mission. At the College we are cognisant of the need to nurture authentic relationships, to provide opportunities for dialogue with families, students and staff and to accompany our students as they traverse the complexities of developing into unique individuals.
Last week the Real Talk team were invited to the College to present on a range of contemporary issues with a Catholic lens. The key messages of all presentations were around dignity, respecting the individual, acknowledging that we are humans who make mistakes and that we are accountable for our actions. Other key issues which were explored included: appropriate use of technology, care for self and others and the challenge for students was to really think about the type of person they want to be in this complex world. The presenters were impressed with the way our students engaged with the presentations. Our Year Coordinators will follow up these topics in their pastoral care lessons. ‘We are unique and beautiful creations who are deserving of care and love’.
The Year 7 Reflection Day was also highlight of Week 9. Thanks to Miss Green for sharing her insights and thoughts on this special time.
On Monday, 21 June, the entire Year 7 cohort spent the day together in the hall with guest facilitator Michael Fitzpatrick for their Reflection Day.
- The day focused on getting the students out of their comfort zone, sharing experiences, ideas and laughter together with a strong focus on building community
- Students volunteered to stand up and sing in front of their peers, we had students rap MC hammer, hit the high notes of Taylor Swift and get us all clapping along to the Gambler
- Students spent time learning about their peers and understanding the importance of listening to each other
- The highlight of the day was the students commitment to sharing their honest feelings about:
One thing that hinders living life to the full at Woodlawn worrying about things that are really not important.
One thing that helps us to live life to the full at Woodlawn is our relationships with each other and our teachers
This powerful exercise allowed students to see that they are not alone in some of their thoughts and experiences and that it is so important to work together to create an inclusive and supportive environment amongst the cohort.
Overall Mr Flynn and I could not be more proud of how the students conducted themselves. They were incredibly open to the experience and walked away with a smile and renewed energy for building our year 7 community.
All of these experiences are seminal to our commitment to ensuring that we give our students the chance to learn how to live life to the full.
Thanks to those who provided feedback on the draft uniform changes to grooming etc. this consultation process is now closed.
St John's Day
The photos tell the story of this special day to recognise our Patron whose Gospel of Love is at the forefront of our Woodlawn story.
A huge shout out to our Year 8 students who volunteer to assist our student services team each day. This important service is a gift to the staff who are seeking students or need messages delivered. This semester we would like to thank each student for their commitment, positivity and generosity.
Looking Forward in the Mission domain.
Term 3: Focus on Marist Solidarity
- NAIDOC week celebrations
- Year 8 and 10 Reflection Days
- The celebration of the Assumption and The Holy Name of Mary
- Walk a Mile in My Shoes: A fundraiser for our Cambodian family; La Valla School
- Shine: Ministry Conference for Years 9 and 10
- Marsden Medal: Celebrating students who are committed to reconciliation, service and community building.
I hope that over the holiday break you all find time for silence and quiet in our busy lives. Take the opportunity to empty your busy minds, have a deep breath and create some space to re-energise.
Annette Reen
Assistant Principal - Mission
annette.reen@lism.catholic.edu.au
Ministry Matters
It has been another action packed fortnight in the world of Ministry within the College. Our students continue to thrive in their desire for authentic encounters with Christ in their daily lives.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and acclaim the efforts of many of our students who give of themselves very generously in the ministry space and create wonderful opportunities for other members of the College community.
Street Retreat
I had the absolute privilege of accompanying Eva Crotty, Luke Rowling, Tarryn Rathbone, Ashleigh Moran, Esther Lees and Flynn Brown along with Natasha Wotherspoon (YMO) on the Diocesan Street Retreat from June 17-20.
Our students excelled themselves on numerous occasions over the four day retreat, heading out on many ministries to serve those in need in the community of Brisbane. Of particular note was the actions of our students who chose to purchase groceries from the local supermarket to distribute to some people they had encountered on a morning walk who were sleeping rough. This showed that these young people had not only heard Christ’s message of spreading love to those in need but rose to action in the face of the challenges, both earthly and human.
I am grateful to our 2021 Ministry Captain, Luke Rowling, for providing the following report on his experience of Street Retreat:
Last Thursday Eva Crotty, Essie Lees, Ashleigh Moran, Flynn Brown, Tarryn Rathbone and myself were chosen to represent the College on the annual ‘street retreat’. Along with Mr Jones and Natasha, one of our awesome YMOs, we ventured up to Brisbane with Trinity and Xavier students on our bus, full of excitement and nerves. As we arrived at the YHA accommodation we were greeted by students from across the Diocese stretching from Banora Point to Port Macquarie. As we packed into the meeting room of the YHA the nerves grew and we quickly realised that getting out of our comfort zone would be the new norm. Our rooms were sorted into people we did not know. We were then put straight to work, walking the streets of Brisbane visiting missions and shelters, whilst others were out serving the community. It was a cold night that night. I felt sorry for the people spending that night rough. The next day was just as hectic with students all over the city. Students either walked or bused to various missions which is where homeless or less fortunate people can come, feel safe and get necessary supplies if needed. Eva and myself helped do some gardening at a shelter in the city. For example, it was going to be a place of relaxation for the people struggling on the street. It was great to see behind the scenes of how these organisations are run and the length of effort the volunteers go to in supporting those in need. We then had some down time so it was time to hit the Vinnies for the annual 'Vinnies Fashion Parade'. There were some interesting and crazy outfits on Saturday night purchased throughout the weekend. Friday night was a time for worship, as most of the students attended Emmanuel City Mission, we were lucky enough to take part in an awesome Emmanuel worship rally. The rest of the students were out with a group called Rosie’s at either Surfers Paradise, Ipswich or Logan, helping the people in need outside of the city. On Saturday it was another big morning with some early risers. Students volunteered their time at soup kitchens, spent time in local meet-ups in parks as well as helped out in other ministries to prepare and serve meals for the homeless. The morning was an eye opening experience for a lot of students as we were faced with some very confronting situations. However, although confronting, it was a big learning experience seeing this first hand and made myself and others realise how lucky we have it in our own lives and how we shouldn’t take anything for granted. A special mention to Flynn and Essie as they had some free time on Saturday morning so they ventured to a supermarket, spent their own money on the food and essentials, and went around the city handing out small care packages to people sleeping rough and leaving small notes with kind messages. It is a service like this that any one of us can do in our daily lives. Street Retreat is a very eye opening and filling experience that I can highly recommend for anyone in the junior years.
Please speak to Mrs Reen, Mr Jones or your YMOs about anything you can do to serve in your community.
Reflection
As we move into this holiday period, I give you the words of Fr Erik Pohlmeier from the Diocese of Little Rock, Arkansas:
“The best vacations allow some time for reflection and an exercise in gratitude. St Matthew tells us that where our treasure is we will find our heart. How about a little homework for the summer? A mental exercise can help us take better advantage of our vacation.
Make some time to sit with your thoughts. Pay attention to where your mind goes when it is unoccupied. Discover what your treasure is by following those thoughts. How long does it take before God enters the picture? Where is faith among your values? The unoccupied mind can tell us a lot if we really do pay attention.”
I hope you all find your treasure and recharge for what lies ahead in Term 3.
Nick Jones
Leader of School Evangelisation
nick.jones@lism.catholic.edu.au
Student Wellbeing
As we approach the holidays after a busy term, following are a series of resources that may be of assistance in supporting your young person.
This link from headspace has a series of interactive activities for young people on life issues, health and wellbeing, mental health, study & work, drugs and alcohol. They may be of use to access with your young person or as a resource for yourself.
If you are having some challenges with your young person, the reachout website has free personalised professional support to help you support teenagers through a tough time.
The experience of grief and loss is difficult. Griefline provides free grief and loss counselling. They work with anyone experiencing grief and loss across Australia, inclusive of remote, regional, rural and metropolitan regions. Their services are free and available 365 days a year. Phone 1300 845 745 (6am - midnight).
School resumes on Tuesday, July 13. A reminder to Year 12 to organise themselves and prepare for their HSC Trial Examinations which begin in Week 3 on Monday, July 26. You can view the previous Newsletter for some study hints.
I hope you get to spend some time with your young person during the holidays.
Fiona Fennamore
Leader of Student Welfare
fiona.fennamore@lism.catholic.edu.au
From the Leader of Curriculum
Year 10 into 11 Subject Selections
Thank you to all Year 10 students for submitting the expression of interest form related to their upcoming subject selections. A reminder that the completed expression of interest is not a guarantee of the subjects that will be available or what students will eventually study in Years 11 and 12.
In Week 1 of Term 3 Year 10’s will complete their Subject Selection Booklet, based on the finalised lines. The following Friday, July 23 students, parents and teachers will meet at the College to undertake subject selection interviews. The interviews are an essential part of the process and aim to finalise the best study pattern for students moving forward. Year 10 students are not required to attend classes on this day. Parents will be sent a link to the interview booking platform early next term. We look forward to meeting with families to discuss this important step in your child’s education.
Matt Bailey
Leader of Curriculum
matthew.bailey@lism.catholic.edu.au
HSIE News
Upcoming HSIE Presentation for Year 10 History
Stage 5 History focuses on Australia and how we have grown as a nation. Students engage in learning about Australia’s role in world conflict, our Indigenous history as well as how we have developed as a multicultural nation.
On Friday, 16 July (Week 1, Term 3) the Year 10 cohort will be treated to an important performance centered around their study of History. In his play, Vietnam: Dusted Off, Brett Hunt, an accomplished actor and guitarist, will share his family story. Last year during his presentation to students, he told of his mother Connie and his father Frank; who joined the army at 17, trained at Canungra jungle training centre, departed Townsville on the Vung Tau ferry and found himself a forward scout in the jungles of Vietnam. After a mine contact, Frank is dusted off to Vung Tau and repatriated home. Brett explores how his father was confronted with a legacy of physical and emotional pain, the indifference of governments and the contempt of society.
The cost of this performance is $8 per Year 10 student. This fee will be billed to student accounts. If you have any questions, or would not like your son/daughter to attend, please contact Marlaina Garcia on marlaina.garcia@lism.catholic.edu.au.
Marlaina Garcia
Leader of Learning - HSIE
marlaina.garcia@lism.catholic.edu.au
Athletics Carnival Results
Careers Update
The full version of the Careers Update can be found at this link. Newsletters are listed on the left side of the page. Select the week for the most up to date news. Don’t forget to check the calendar for Open Days, events, Career Expos, new dates and closing dates, etc.
In this fortnight’s news there is plenty of information from a range of universities, TAFE and private colleges.
A reminder to Year 10 that the dates for the second round of work experience in Term 4 will be from 29 November until 3 December. If anyone is interested in undertaking work experience with animals, for example with a Vet practice, we ask that you arrange this well before these dates. All working with animals work experience needs to be sent to Sydney for approval so we need to submit it ahead of time. Thanks in advance for your assistance with this.
Please click on the links below to read more about the latest news and events.
Bernie Maginnity
Vocational Pathways Coordinator
bernie.maginnity@lism.catholic.edu.au
University
This link provides a list of University Open Days for many of the universities in each state.
University of Newcastle Jobs of the Future: Computing and IT
UTS Boost Your Application Webinar
Apply to the Con: https://bit.ly/2QAmY5i
Apply to the SCA: https://bit.ly/3yk98ot
SCU – Preparing for Success Entry Program
University of Melbourne Interstate Open Day for Yr11 and Yr12.
Applications open soon for an early offer at Charles Sturt.
University of Canberra August Early Round Offer Webinar
The Women's College within The University of Sydney
UAC
EAS Is here to help - UAC
UAC Key Dates 2021
19 September 2021SRS closing of application
30 September 2021Early bird close - UAC application
4 November 2021Change of preference deadline for SRS
12 November 2021 November round 1 offers for SRS
10 December 2021 NSW ATAR release
Some guides to help navigate the world of UAC and university applications.
UAC Application Summary Sheet
Schools Recommendation (SRS) and Early Entry Schemes Summary Sheet
Educational Access Schemes (EAS) Summary Sheet
TAFE
TAFE Real Futures Grant Scholarship
Closes 31 October
Essential Energy Apprenticeship and Traineeship Program is Open
BBM Global Agriculture Industry Scholarship
Guide for Apprentices and Trainees
Private Colleges
Sport and Dance - ACPE Campus Tours
Qantas Group Pilot AcademyBond University Save the date for Bond's Open Day experiences.
Other Events
Women for the Defence Forces
Your ultimate step-by-step guide to successful selection into the Australian Defence Force
Teach Scholarships
Year 11 Drama
Year 11 Drama Production 2021
In Term 3, Year 11 Drama will be opening their exciting production of Cosi written by Australian playwright Louis Nowra. This production will be held in the Pidcock Centre for Performing Arts on Wednesday, 28 and Thursday, 29 of July at 6pm.
Live music from the 70’s, will be performed by Year 11 Music students and delicious food made by the Hospitality students will be available for purchase. Please be advised that this performance is for mature audiences (Year 9 and older).
Tickets will be available for $5 at the door.
Cosi is set in Australia, during the 1970's in a mental institution, it follows the quirky and original characters through their experience of attempting to put on an Italian Opera in an abandoned burnt out theatre. It showcases and reflects upon the outcasts of society at that time, highlighting the issues of love, fidelity, madness and reality.
We would love to see you there for a fabulous night of theatre and entertainment.
Parents & Friends' News
Parents and Friends' Meeting
The Parents and Friends' Association invite all parents, carers and friends to the next Parents and Friends' meeting on Monday, 19 July at 5.30pm. It is to be held in the College Library. We appreciate and welcome all to attend.
Save the Date
The St Johns College Parents and Friends' Association are hosting a Black Friday Trivia Night on Friday, 13 August at 7pm. The Trivia Night will be held in the Colin Centre at Woodlawn. There will be teams and tables of eight. Dress up in theme or wear a spooky hat. More information to come at the beginning of Term 3.
Rebecca Prodger
Parents and Friends' Association - Secretary
Second Hand Uniform Shop
Our Second Hand Uniform Shop opens on the first Wednesday of every month.
Date: Wednesday, 14 July
Time: 9am-2pm
Where: Colin Centre, Woodlawn
No EFTPOS facilities available. Cash only.
Students are able to access the Second Hand Uniform Shop at recess or lunch.
Items of school uniform given to the shop are done so as a donation to the P & F Association; however, $50 will be given for second hand blazers. No monies will be exchanged for other uniform items.
All items held by the Uniform Shop will be sold for a sum, at the discretion of the P & F Association, with monies utilised for the ongoing needs and services of St John's College, Woodlawn.
Michelle Seccombe
mseccombe22@bigpond.com
0414 357 481
Leanne Copeland
leannecopeland3043@gmail.com
0407 739 237
School Locker - School Uniforms
Student Uniforms and supplies are available at the following stores. Please click on the links below for more information and opening hours.
Canteen News
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 anytime.
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: