Week 4 Term 1 2023
From the Principal
Dear Parents, Staff and Students,
It has been a tremendous past fortnight at Woodlawn. Normality has returned, after a three year absence! Our Opening Mass was celebrated at the Cathedral, our Twilight Swimming Carnival (pictured below) was attended by hundreds of family members and our cricketers have returned from Sydney as State Champions in the Berg Shield and fourth placed in NSW in the Downie Shield!
Next week we commence our 2024 Enrolment period with school visits to our traditional feeder Primary schools: St Carthage’s, Lismore; Our Lady Help of Christians, South Lismore; St Joseph’s, Alstonville; St Joseph’s, Woodburn and St Finbarr’s, Byron Bay. Open Night will be held on Wednesday, 15 March with two sessions: 5.00pm and 7.00pm. If you have daughters/sons in Year 6, or know of friends and family members who do, we would be very grateful if you could alert them to these details.
Thanks to those families who have been able to pay their School Fee accounts issued via Compass. We are aware that BPay client numbers have changed and these will be available via your monthly Fee Statement, accessed via Compass, from next week. BPay is our preferred method of payment for school fees, as it is the most cost effective option for the College. We appreciate your patience as we work through the transition to this new system. Anyone having issues accessing or paying school fee accounts is asked to contact Mrs Vicky Fitness or Ms Carolyn Hope, via the College Office.
We have been very pleased with how the vast majority of students have returned to school fully adhering to the College’s clear Uniform and Personal Grooming Guidelines. Significant work was undertaken in 2020 and 2021 by a Committee of staff, parents and students to update these Guidelines to better reflect the contemporary society in which we now live. Could I ask that all parents/guardians make themselves aware of our expectations here, as Year Coordinators will be contacting families of students who need to correct an aspect of uniform/personal grooming in the coming week.
On 28 February, we come to the one year anniversary of the devastating flood event of 2022 which decimated our region. This will be a traumatic and triggering time for many people within our College and wider community. We have a number of resources that may be of assistance to your families. The College will hold a special prayer service as part of our regular weekly Assembly on Monday, 27 February.
Our first P&F meeting for 2023 will be held in the College Library on Monday, 13 March at 5.30pm. Please come along and hear how you can be involved in your child’s education.
Finally, as we commenced the Season of Lent on Ash Wednesday, I include the following reflection for your perusal:
‘Lent challenges each of us to reflect on who we are and what we stand for, and dares us to address those aspects of our human condition that do not meet up to God’s or our own standards. During this 40 day period, I am always encouraged that we are gifted with a life full of infinite opportunities to better ourselves. We don’t have to ‘settle’ if there are parts of ourselves that we don’t like. Lent is our time to step up and be people of goodness. Pope Francis’ 2022 Lenten message centred around Paul’s letter to the Galatians 9:10, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
The 2023 theme for Project Compassion is “For all future generations”. This phrase is a powerful affirmation that the good that we do today will extend and impact the lives of generations to come. It is also a call for all of us to play our part in making the world a better place by working together as sisters and brothers in finding long-term solutions to global issues.’
(Sharon Collins)
Enjoy the fortnight ahead.
Sincerely
Aaron Beach
Principal
From the Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
DIBELS Testing
DIBELS are measures that help teachers and schools determine how students are performing on important reading skills. DIBELS stands for Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills.
These measures are designed for students in Years K-8 following extensive research conducted by the University of Oregon, Centre for Teaching and Learning.
DIBELS measures will be administered on 8 March to Stage 4 students who have been identified through the PAT Reading Assessment completed in Week 4.
The critical skills necessary for successful reading include: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. The DIBELS measures assess students on four of these five critical skills.
DIBELS measures allow teachers to get valuable information about students’ reading skills without using large amounts of instructional time.
Congratulations to Tegan Grofski (Year 12, 2022)
Tegan was selected to be in the NESA CEO's Art Collection. This is a collection of art that doesn't happen every year. Students selected for this have their artwork displayed at the NESA CEO's building for two years and receive a $500 cash award. This is a significant achievement and a great acknowledgement of the work Tegan put into her HSC Art piece. There is more information in the Creative Arts section of this Newsletter.
Year 12 Half Yearly Assessment
Year 12 will sit their first round of major assessments for 2023 during Weeks 7 and 8 of this term. It is important that all students are prepared for these assessments; preparation should already be underway. Mr Matthew Bailey sent out the Assessment Timetable to students with other important information last week.
Assessment Calendars
Assessment calendars outlining the timing of assessment tasks have been emailed to all students. It is a great opportunity for parents to engage in conversation with their child about these assessment items.
Michael Campbell
Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
michael.campbell@lism.catholic.edu.au
From the Assistant Principal - Mission
College Opening Mass
We were blessed to celebrate Mass at the Cathedral this year. As a community we came together to give thanks for our many blessings and to commission our Year 12 students and new SRC members. Our students pledged to lead by example, to be a model for all students to follow, and to show genuine concern for the welfare of all.
'We are to Called to Act with Justice’
Our community is committed to service, solidarity and fulfilling the challenge of Pope Francis: ‘none of us can think we are exempt from concerns for the poor and for social justice.’ As a College we work together to raise money for communities that suffer due to lack of resources. The banners below speak volumes about our students and staff who have put their hands up to support some of our social justice initiatives.
The Year 10 Social Justice Committee came together for prayer on International Social Justice Day. This was followed by a range of workshops aimed at developing awareness of the essential work of Caritas and preparing our Project Compassion launch. The team was also commissioned to be the voice of the marginalised through action.
Please encourage your students to support our Project Compassion campaign by:
- Bringing money to Home Group for the purchase of the Hearts of Hope. Hearts are on sale daily for $25. In the past many Home Groups have committed to purchasing a heart each week during Lent. This is only $2 per person per week. In 2022, five Home Groups raised over $300 each for Project Compassion.
- Supporting the Casual Clothes Day: March 24. Each term we have one casual clothes day. More details to follow in coming weeks. $2 donation.
The College was alive with the buzz of families and staff coming together at the annual Year 7 Meet and Greet Liturgy. The theme of Light was the focus of our prayer. We spoke of aspirations, dreams and making sure that everyone feels welcome and included. Following the Liturgy we shared supper provided by our wonderful Canteen staff, ably led by Mrs Sonya Pope and the P&F Executive. May our Year 7s continue to shine brightly!
Where are they now?
CHARLOTTE BELL
Charlotte graduated with the class of 2015. She was known for her commitment to making a difference in the world. On graduation she received the Fr Stephen Moloney Award for the student displaying outstanding Christian concern for others and the Anne Jones Public Speaking Award. As a member of the Social Justice Committee she travelled to Cambodia on our quest to bring dignity to the disabled youth in the Phnom Penh region. Charlotte personally raised enough money to purchase a three wheel motor bike so that some of the High School students could access their education. Her love and care for everyone was evident.
Following school, Charlotte followed a number of different paths and pursued many passions. Travel was high on her priority list. With fellow Woodlawners she volunteered in India and also travelled to Europe for six months. In terms of higher education, she pursued a desire to right injustice through education. After completing a Bachelor of Arts Public Health, Charlotte decided to gain a Masters of Global Health. You will now find her working for an international aid organisation Klielur Domin in Timor Leste. This work is challenging and based in a rural community with limited services but for Charlotte it is the smiles of the locals that warms her heart.
Lucy, her younger sister, is currently in Year 12 and is our College Vice-Captain.
Looking forward
- Families may be interested in nominating for the Younger Heroes Flood Relief Program. This program supports flood affected families. The program is suitable for individuals who were on the front line supporting the recovery or for those directly impacted by the floods. All accommodation, meals and programs are provided. Visit the website www.theyoungerheroes.org/flood-relief-program for more details. Check it out today.
- Monday, 27 February: Whole school reflection Liturgy for the anniversary of the floods;
- Friday, March 3: Year 7 Big Day out. All paperwork and payments are now due;
- Wednesday, March 8: International Women’s Day will still be celebrated at the College but unfortunately, the breakfast will not go ahead as the Hospitality teachers are now required to attend training in Sydney that week. Thanks for your interest and bookings. We will definitely have other opportunities in the future to come together for this cause.
- ANZAC DAY, 25 April: I am flagging this early as this is at the beginning of Term 2 and we march as a community in a number of local areas. All students require hats and full winter uniforms - including blazers. Just a reminder to source these items over the coming weeks.
I’d like to leave you with a Lenten Message from Pope Francis:
If I can assist you with anything, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Annette Reen
Assistant Principal - Mission
annette.reen@lism.catholic.edu.au
Student Wellbeing
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Uniform
We have had a focus on uniform over the last week. Students have been reminded of the expectations with regard to what is to be worn, and how it is to be worn. These guidelines are in the Parent and Student Handbook, available on the College website. I am including a summary here for you. Please ensure your young person has the correct uniform and wears it to school each day. Should this not be possible, a note outlining reasons should be provided and presented to Mrs Reen where the student will be given a Uniform Pass on each day the uniform is incorrect.
Social Futures and Family Connect
We are pleased to announce that St John's College is joining 22 schools in the Lismore Diocese that have direct support from Family Connect. In a collaboration between the Catholic Schools Office, Social Futures and the College, we will have a Program Worker based in our College each Thursday. Social Futures will be able to offer support and services to families, as required. Further details about access and service provision will be provided at a later date.
I would like to warmly welcome Cassandra Finucane to Woodlawn. She is our Program Worker and is based at the College each Thursday. We look forward to the positive outcomes that Cass and Social Futures will have for members of our community.
Flood Anniversary
As we approach the anniversary of the flood events of 2022, we are aware that many members of our community were significantly impacted, and are continuing to be impacted. Below are some tips and information that might be useful during this difficult time:
School Attendance
School attendance matters. Regular attendance at school for every student is essential if students are to achieve their potential, and increase their career and life options. If your child is absent from school it is important to notify the school. The easiest way to do this is via the Compass app. Once you open the browser the following page will appear:
Click on Add Attendance Note which will take you to the student dashboard.
From here, click Add and you will be able to add an Attendance Note:
Your cooperation in providing attendance notes, and supporting documentation where appropriate, is appreciated. The College will follow-up unexplained or extended periods of absence. If you have not been receiving absentee notifications, please contact Student Services on 6626 2629.
Detention
We will be introducing lunch detentions on Monday, March 13. Students who are placed on detention will be completing community service within the College grounds. Detentions can be given for uniform infringements, poor playground behaviour and inappropriate mobile phone use. Students will be notified verbally by the teacher involved that they will have a detention. There will also be a notification on the student’s Compass home page. Students who miss a detention will automatically be given another detention. Failure to attend three detentions in one term will result in an afternoon detention.
Headspace
Headspace is Australia’s National Youth Mental Health Foundation, providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds, and as such, has many resources for families and young people. Here is a link to a webinar about helping parents and caregivers connect and communicate with young people around their mental health and wellbeing. To attend, simply register via the link above.
If you have any questions or concerns, I can be reached at 6626 2627.
Fiona Fennamore
Leader of Student Welfare
fiona.fennamore@lism.catholic.edu.au
Literacy News
Do you have conversations with your children about what matters to them?
The Whitlam Institute’s [Western Sydney University] annual What Matters? Writing Competition has opened for 2023.
This competition is about empowering young people to raise their voices and feel that their perspectives are valuable, no matter their age, background or point of view.
Entries can be fiction, non-fiction, poetry or prose of 600 words or less, and can be submitted online at whitlam.org/what-matters-2023-enter until the competition closing date on Friday, 5 May, at 11:59 pm.
Prizes include virtual author visits, writing workshops, the opportunity to shadow political speechwriters and journalists, books and opportunities for students’ schools, and the major cash prize of $1500.
Students have been invited to participate via their daily notices at the College. If you think your children should take action about what matters to them, please encourage them to enter.
Suzanne Arnold
Leader of Literacy
suzanne.arnold@lism.catholic.edu.au
Numeracy News
Dear Parents,
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) assesses literacy and numeracy skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life. Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 participate in the annual NAPLAN tests in reading, writing, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.
From 2023, NAPLAN is moving to Term 1 and will take place from Wednesday, 15 March to Monday, 27 March. The reason for this change is so that results can be returned to schools earlier in the year which will support teachers to understand the learning needs of their students and plan accordingly.
The assessment provides parents and schools with an understanding of how individual students are performing at the time of the tests. NAPLAN is just one aspect of a school’s assessment and reporting process – it does not replace ongoing assessments made by teachers about student performance.
St John's College has conducted NAPLAN testing online since 2018. Federal, state and territory ministers made the decision that all Australian schools would transition from paper-based NAPLAN to NAPLAN Online in order to provide a better and more precise assessment that is more engaging for students.
In the coming weeks, staff will assist students in checking their devices and downloading the necessary locked down platform to complete the NAPLAN Online tests on their own devices. There will no longer be a coordinated practice test in preparation for the tests in Week 7. In 2022, all online testing was successfully conducted and this was a testament to the resilience and patience of our students and the support of our staff.
This year, the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) will continue to administer the NAPLAN Online testing, with improvements and upgrades to their platform. St John's College staff will be attending NAPLAN Online training to ensure these tests are administered smoothly, and that if technological problems do arise, our students will not be adversely affected.
Students will be supported by teachers with downloading and installing the locked down browser on their devices in the next week. As a requirement to complete the test, students will need headphones, preferably corded, so they can listen to audio questions and respond accordingly. Please ensure their device is compatible. Cordless headphones (e.g. Apple Airpods) will still work; however, we request they are corded so connectivity is not an issue on the morning of the first test.
Please take the time to read the NAPLAN Online information sheet attached. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the NAPLAN testing or process, please don't hesitate to contact me via email.
Natalie Harris
Leader of Numeracy
natalie.harris@lism.catholic.edu.au
Creative Arts News
Sydney Drama Trip 2023 - A Student's Reflection
In Week 1, the Years 11 and 12 Drama classes, accompanied by Ms McDowell, Ms Green and Mr Garcia had the fabulous opportunity to travel to Sydney. This trip was beneficial for us, as regional theatre students, because it allowed us to participate in a wide range of activities that we would not have otherwise had access to. These activities also served to strengthen our class relationship and ability to cooperate and support one another, which is especially important for our final year of study, knowing that we can truly trust and work with our fellow students.
Through participating in a ‘Group Devised Workshop’ at Seymour Centre we not only learnt to rely on each other, got ideas for our own future works, and learnt to listen to each other's ideas, but we also got to work with other schools and engage with different people who we would not normally have the chance to work with. By exploring the city we got to work on ourselves as individuals but also learnt different things about our peers. Watching the two shows, ‘Hairspray’ at Sydney Lyric Theatre and ‘A Broadcast Coup’ at Ensemble Theatre, Kirribilli, was also a fabulous opportunity to engage with different styles of shows that are not easily accessible in our immediate location. Onstage was also a wonderful chance for our two classes to get to watch different styles of individual and group-devised projects that had been nominated from the 2022 HSC class as exemplar works, leaving us feeling inspired to devise our own pieces and giving us a chance to enhance our own ideas even further. The ‘Sydney Theatre Company Tour’ also opened up many of our eyes to different possibilities in the future and helped many of us better understand what the theatre industry is all about. We also had the chance to watch three different archival recordings of plays performed at Sydney Theatre Company and Belvoir Theatre that the Year 12 class will be studying for the HSC, in order to deepen our knowledge and appreciation of the plays. All together this was an amazing experience and one that will always be remembered in the hearts of the people who attended.
Sydney Dance Excursion 2023
After four years in the making, the Years 11 and 12 Dance students were accompanied by Ms Parrey and Mrs Thompson on the Sydney Dance Excursion that had been a regular part of our Dance studies at Woodlawn before the disruptions of COVID-19.
We left early Wednesday morning and arrived in Sydney ready to go, go, go until Friday! We caught trains, planes and light rails and enjoyed all that the city had to offer.
After a walk through the Museum of Contemporary Art and The Rocks we made our way to the most recent Bangarra Dance Theatre performance of Dance Clan. Students left feeling both star struck and inspired with their initial responses including words such as “amazing", "intriguing", "gobsmacked" and "pleasantly surprised". We checked out Sydney Dance Company and made our way back to our accommodation to debrief and discuss the various stimulus materials we had collected throughout the day.
"Callback", a showcase of exemplary HSC Dance works from 2022 HSC students, was the main event for this trip. After not being able to attend these events for a number of years, teachers also found these beneficial dance workshops extremely informative. The day started with a Q & A session with the Supervisor of HSC Dance Marking for NSW, and for the small number of lucky students present and teachers, the information gained was priceless.
Students then moved into different dance studios for a session focused on their core performance component, learning and exploring a sequence of movement, and discussing the anatomical and technical aspects in order to best prepare for the performance and then the interview section of their practical examinations.
Core composition was next which allowed students to discuss their concepts and intents with HSC NESA examiners and receive valuable feedback on how to best proceed with their composition work from this point. Teachers joined these discussions and also noted these responses for future lessons to develop on the ideas generated.
Major study workshops happened in the afternoon with the students selecting their areas of strength and interest to gain more knowledge and experience as they prepare for this significant component of the course. Teachers attended each separate session to also collect resources from the lecturers and ask questions to enhance student learning in the moment.
The "Callback" performance was spectacular, with a range of performances and compositions presented from all over the state. This experience was so valuable for students to be able to see the standard that is being produced across a number of different schools, but also to gain inspiration and stimulus for their own dance works as they move into their last two terms of their HSC course preparing for their examinations in August.
Tegan Grofski’s Artwork Selected in NESA CEOs Collection
We are thrilled to share this exciting news with our College community; 2022 Graduate, Tegan Grofski, one of our talented Visual Art students, has been selected to be part of the NESA CEOs Collection, a highly esteemed collection of artwork that is displayed at the NESA CEOs building.
This is an honour that is not awarded every year, and we are incredibly proud of Tegan for achieving this prestigious recognition. The artwork selected for this collection is carefully curated and is a true reflection of the exceptional talent and hard work of the students who are chosen.
Tegan's artwork will be on display at the NESA CEOs building for two years, and she will receive a $500 cash award in recognition of her outstanding achievement. This is a remarkable accomplishment that speaks to Tegan's incredible talent and dedication to her craft.
Congratulations to Tegan on this significant achievement, and we wish her all the best in her future artistic endeavours.
In closing, I would like to acknowledge and celebrate the role of our College's Creative Arts staff, who play a vital role in supporting our creative students through their guidance, mentorship and giving up of their time at lunch, after hours and evenings for overnight excursions such as the ones mentioned above. Exposure to these opportunities in the flesh can help regional students reach their full potential and gain an understanding of excellence in their area of study, something metropolitan schools have access to on a regular basis. Thank you Creative Arts families for supporting these important learning opportunities, it really is rewarding for our teachers when students can see what is possible to achieve and come home buzzing with ideas for their own major works.
Sharon Thompson
Leader of Creative Arts
sharon.thompson@lism.catholic.edu.au
Sports News
Twilight Swimming Carnival
Kennedy Wins Swimming Carnival, School Tradition Shines Through!
The annual Twilight Swimming Carnival was an ecstatic experience for all who participated and attended. The day was filled with excitement, competition and celebration, showcasing the rich traditions of our College.
After a day filled with exhilarating races, Kennedy emerged victorious, followed by Segrief, Carroll and finally Bell. The cheers and applause of the crowd echoed across the pool as the swimmers displayed their skills and determination.
It was not just a day for team victories, as individual swimmers also shone in the pool. The swimming age champions included: Georgie White, Elijah Mercy Wilson, Ivy Roberts, William Bullpit, Isabella Rowe, Kik Hussey, Alanna Bromhead, Michael Bullpit, Niamh Thompson and Oliver Mason, who all excelled in their swimming, and displayed great sportsmanship.
The success of our College's Swimming Team was evident as well, with their performance earning them a spot in the Diocesan Swimming Carnival in Kempsey. We wish them all the best as they continue to represent Woodlawn with pride and dedication.
We would like to thank all the students, staff, and volunteers who helped make our Swimming Carnival a fantastic event. Your efforts and support are greatly appreciated and contributed to the success of the day.
Congratulations to all who participated and we look forward to next year's Carnival, where we can continue to uphold the traditions and spirit of our wonderful College.
Championship Swimming Carnival 2023
House Champions Point Score
| Kennedy | 1302 |
| Segrief | 1101 |
| Carroll | 1023 |
| Bell | 744 |
In Softball news, Lachlan O’Sullivan travelled to Sydney last week to trial for the the NSW CCC Softball Team. He was one of 40 boys trialling. Lachlan was successful in gaining selection and will now play in the All Schools Selection Trials in Sydney next month.
In the world of Tennis, Benji De Milford and Pat Maginnity have been selected in the NSW CCC Tennis Team. Congratulations to both boys. They will now compete in the All Schools event later in the year.
Finally, both our Berg (U/15) and Downie (Opens) Shield Cricketers have been competing in the State Finals in Sydney over the last few days.
Our Downie Shield side has finished an impressive 4th in the state, while our Berg Shield team has been crowned State Champions! Well done to all involved!
Downie Shield Semi: St Edward’s, Gosford 9/271 (Hamish Weekes 2/21; Oli Walker 2/34; Harry Gillett 3/52) defeated Woodlawn 54.
Downie Shield 3rd place play off: Edmund Rice 6/163 (Kieran Weekes 2/1) defeated Woodlawn 160 (Jameson Hinds 43; Harry Perkins 50 n.o.)
Berg Shield Semi: Woodlawn 86 (Cooper Williams 36) defeated All Saints, Maitland 65 (Blake Perkins 4/18; Charlie Collins 3/17)
Berg Shield Final: Woodlawn 115 (Lachie Barnes 23; Jake Fowler 24n.o.) defeated Xavier Albury 44 (Lachlan O’Sullivan 2/24; Dom Crotty 2/1)
Many umpires, opposition coaches and parents commented on the conduct and sportsmanship of the boys on this trip. Each player contributed their bit to the success of the teams, right down to Tom McPhee taking the winning wicket in the Berg Final.
Very well done boys!!! Berg Shield State Champions!
Simon Andrews
Sports Coordinator
simon.andrews@lism.catholic.edu.au
Community News
Canteen News
Flexischools orders will have a cut-off time of 9.00 am.
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 St John's College, 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.
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:
Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm
When: Every Wednesday
Where: Colin Centre
Please click on the link below to place an order or to make a booking. We encourage parents/guardians to make appointments for fittings due to time restraints.
https://sjcwuniformshop.com.au/
Leanne Copeland
Uniform Shop Convenor
0407 739 237