Newsletter #4 2025: Monday 19 May 2025

Principal's Message

Dear Members of the St Joseph’s College Family,

As our Week 4 begins, I would like to commend our students and staff for the smooth and positive start to Term 2.  There has been a noticeable shift in energy and focus as we returned to school routines after the holidays and now, with the daylight hours shortening and the first day of winter just a few weeks away, it's encouraging to see a marked settling back into the school environment. 

According to the Australian Education Research Organisation:  “Behaviour expectations are important because they provide students with clear guidelines for how to behave in the classroom and create a positive and productive learning environment.  When expectations are clear, students feel more secure because they know where they stand (DeNobile, 2021).  Having high expectations for students’ behaviour offers them hope of success, shows they are cared for, and supports achievement for all (Bennett, 2020; McDonald, 2019).

We’ve already had our first parent-teacher-student conferences for the year, our first school assembly for the term, and many are gearing up for more events.  In the coming weeks there will be much with which to keep our students engaged and involved both on and off the field and campus, with our own College Athletics Carnival (5 June) as well as a variety of other events and excursions.  This week, we will also be holding interviews (19-21 May) for prospective Year 7 students to be enrolled at the College in 2026.

We are most grateful to our parents and carers for the trust you extend to us each day, and for the  opportunity to work in partnership with you to provide what we believe to be an outstanding educational experience for your child.

At St Joseph’s College, we believe that community spirit is vital to a whole person: heart, mind, body and soul are engaged in being the best person you can be, and bringing with you to the College that mindful attitude whether it be to the classroom, to the playground, to your studies, how you present yourself while in school uniform, or whenever and wherever you are representing the College - how you show up - in short, to all your pursuits.  Believe in yourself and believe also that you can be the positive change you want to see.  And if you do see someone struggling, lift them up too - a burden shared is a burden halved.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Remembering Pope Francis

At the news of Pope Francis’ death, we are left with an inner emptiness.  The death is not unexpected.  In fact, there is a sadness and a joy.  After much suffering he has gone to God.  What remains for us is a memory of a great man, a wonderful shepherd.  Emptiness invites us to ponder Francis the man and what he has done.

Pope Francis impressed us with his simple humility, openness to God and the people of our world.  Listening deeply, he was able to hear with his heart and see Jesus in others.  He did not judge, rather he loved by touching hearts.

He did much for world peace and the care of the abandoned and suffering.  He reached out to people regardless of their religious belief.  In particular, he worked for Christian unity.  He also led the way in dialogue with Jews and Muslims.

Finally, he was a man of prayer. It is our turn to pray for him.

Eternal rest grant unto him and let perpetual light shine upon him.

Bishop Greg Homeming OCD

“Pope Francis chose his name in honor of St Francis of Assisi because he is a lover of the poor”, according to a spokesperson of the Vatican, because he “had a special place in his heart and his ministry for the poor, for the disenfranchised, for those living on the fringes and facing injustice.”

I offer you the ‘Prayer for Peace’ as the Prayer of St Francis of Assisi is also known:

Prayer of St Francis of Assisi - the Prayer for Peace:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.  Amen.

HABEMUS PAPAM - We have a pope!

Robert Prevost, a cardinal from the United States, has been elected as the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.  He is the first US pontiff and takes the name Leo XIV.

"Peace be with all of you!" were the first words of Pope Leo XIV.  On 8 May (9 May AEST), the Conclave elected Robert Francis Cardinal Prevost as the 267th Bishop of Rome.  The new pope was announced to the waiting crowds by Cardinal Protodeacon Dominique Mamberti:

I announce to you a great joy: 

WE HAVE A POPE

The Most Eminent and Most Reverend Lord Robert Francis
Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church Prevost
who has taken the name Leo XIV

Reported by our own Jessica Millward (SJC Class of 2007), Channel 9 News Correspondent, it was an historical moment for not only Catholics but for everyone around the world.

Till last week, in my lifetime, there had been two such papal announcements - Benedict XVI (2005-2013), and Francis (2013-2025) - and now with Pope Leo IV that makes three.  I was personally moved by the announcement of the new pope, seeing the white smoke appearing from a chimney atop the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican, and later witnessing the pope’s speech to the world, where he was himself obviously moved by the greetings of the crowd in St Peter’s Square.  Somehow, it was also something to see a small flock of seagulls on the roof just before the smoke finally emerged, with a seagull chick among them, and the vision of the small bird stepping across the tiles, watched over by the rest of the flock, was almost like witnessing a new chapter finding its place in a book going back centuries.

Pope Leo XIV greeted the city of Rome and the world with these words at his first appearance as the Successor of Peter from the Central Loggia of St Peter's Basilica:

Pope Leo XIV: Greetings to Rome and to the world

Peace be with you!  Dearest brothers and sisters, this was the first greeting of the risen Christ, the good shepherd who gave His life for the flock of God.  I, too, would like this greeting of peace to enter your hearts, to reach your families and all people, wherever they are; and all the peoples, and all the earth: Peace be with you.

This is the peace of the Risen Christ, a disarming and humble and preserving peace.  It comes from God. God, who loves all of us, without any limits or conditions.  Let us keep in our ears the weak but always brave voice of Pope Francis, who blessed Rome - the Pope who blessed Rome and the world that day on the morning of Easter.

Allow me to continue that same blessing.  God loves us, all of us, evil will not prevail.  We are all in the hands of God.  Without fear, united, hand in hand with God and among ourselves, we will go forward.  We are disciples of Christ, Christ goes before us, and the world needs His light.  Humanity needs Him like a bridge to reach God and His love.  You help us to build bridges with dialogue and encounter so we can all be one people always in peace.

Thank you Pope Francis!

Thank you to my Cardinal brothers who chose me to be the Successor of Peter and to walk together with you as a united Church searching all together for peace and justice, working together as women and men, faithful to Jesus Christ without fear, proclaiming Christ, to be missionaries, faithful to the gospel.

I am a son of Saint Augustine, an Augustinian.  He said, “With you I am a Christian, for you a bishop."  So may we all walk together towards that homeland that God has prepared for us.

To the Church of Rome, a special greeting:

We have to look together how to be a missionary Church, building bridges, dialogue, always open to receiving with open arms for everyone, like this square, open to all, to all who need our charity, our presence, dialogue, love.

[In Spanish]:
Hello to all and especially to those of my diocese of Chiclayo in Peru, a loyal, faithful people accompanying the bishop and helping the bishop.

[Returning to Italian]:
To all you brothers and sisters of Rome, Italy, of all the world, we want to be a synodal church, walking and always seeking peace, charity, closeness, especially to those who are suffering.

Today is the day of the Supplicatio [Plea] to Our Lady of Pompei.

Our blessed mother Mary always wants to walk with us, be close to us, she always wants to help us with her intercession and her love.  So let us pray together for this mission, and for all of the Church, and for peace in the world.

We ask for this special grace from Mary, our Mother.

Hail, Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou amongst women
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners,
now and at the hour of our death. 
Amen.

The papal coat of arms are the personal coat of arms of popes of the Catholic Church.  These have been a tradition since the Late Middle Ages.  Pope Leo XIV's coat of arms offers a clear reflection of his Augustinian roots and the values he seeks to promote during his pontificate, particularly unity and communion within the Church.  The newly-elected Pontiff’s motto reflects the Augustinian tradition: In Illo uno unum, which means “In the One, we are one.”

It was the same motto he had as a bishop.  He explained his reason for the motto in a 2023 interview with Vatican News:  “As can be seen from my episcopal motto, unity and communion are truly part of the charism of the Order of Saint Augustine, and also of my way of acting and thinking,” then-Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost said at the time.

“I believe it is very important to promote communion in the Church, and we know well that communion, participation, and mission are the three key words of the Synod.  So, as an Augustinian, for me promoting unity and communion is fundamental.”

With great joy, Bishop Greg Homeming welcomes our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, as he begins his mission of leading the Catholic Church.

"I believe this man, chosen by the Holy Spirit, will be the Pope needed in these difficult times."

Read Bishop Greg's message here.

Term 2 Parent /Teacher/Student Interviews:

Bookings opening soon for Stage 6 - Monday 2 June 2025 (Week 6, Term 2)

The event for Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12) will take place in Week 6 of Term 2, on Monday 2 June.  Bookings will open this week.  A Compass alert will be sent out as a reminder to make a booking.  We ask that at least one parent be in attendance, and that your child accompanies you in full school uniform.

Following on from interview bookings for students in Stage 6, we will be opening up bookings for students in junior classes.  Therefore, Year 11 and 12 parents will have a week to make appointments, and once the seniors have had priority booking, then booking times will become available to junior parents.

Term 2 College Assembly, Tuesday 6 May 2025

ANZAC Day 2025 Reflection

In his message 2025 ANZAC Day message, the Chief of the Australian Army spoke of their proud history serving our nation:  "We have fought in wars across the globe to defend Australia’s interests and our fellow Australians.  110 years ago today, the first Anzacs landed on a battlefield far from home."

At our ANZAC Ceremony, held as part of our first College assembly held on Tuesday 6 May, we also reflected on ... “what has been made possible by generations of sacrifice… [through] Service... Courage... Respect... Integrity... Excellence...

Anzac Day is a day for reflection, for commemoration, for remembrance and for sharing.  Thousands of stories of courage, mateship, endurance, compassion and dedication will be shared today by serving soldiers, our veterans and Australians wherever they are gathered today.

Today we fulfil our promise to remember them.

Lest we forget.”

Student Recognition

As part of that assembly we also recognised the following students for their efforts and achievements:

• NSW Parliament Regional Roadshow, Grafton:

A small group of students attended the NSW Parliament’s Regional Roadshow in Grafton last month and were today presented with awards of recognition for taking part in this event. 

Congratulations to them all, with a special mention to Caleb Matheson who was one of 17 young leaders from across the NSW North Coast participating in a public speaking competition against their peers.  Caleb was named joint runner up, together with Eva, a student from Toormina High School.

• College Sports Award:

And congratulations to the students who recently took part in the College's Cross Country Carnival. A great effort by all.  Congratulations also to Dalton House who has been named House Champion for this year's Cross Country Carnival.

• College House Award:

 Outstanding achievements across the board - Congratulations to you all!

Project Compassion 2025

It was also mentioned at assembly that the College raised an amazing amount of money for the 2025 Project Compassion Appeal “Unite Against Poverty”.  Thanks to your generosity Caritas Australia can continue to support those less fortunate than ourselves.  Thank you one and all!

Thrive in 2025: Parent Assembly Conference, Coffs Harbour, Saturday 14 June 

Due to the high level of interest in this event, the registration limit for the conference has already been reached.  However, you can still complete the form if you would like to be added to the waitlist as places will likely become available.

College Athletics Carnival - Thursday 5 June

The College's Annual Athletics Carnival is scheduled for Thursday, 5 June (Week 6), which is also the day our next newsletter is due to be distributed, and the reason for this advance notice.

Every sports carnival we hold is a school day, and with that there is an expectation (as agreed to at enrolment) that all students will be in attendance.  As such, if your child is not here on Thursday 5 June, they will have the absence recorded on their semester report.  To put this into further context, these reports can be seen as the level of support your child shows with special school events such as these.  It would also be a shame to not join in with the rest of the school in enjoying all the events and inclusivity that Ms Ilic, our Leader of Sport, has worked so hard to achieve.  The day is full of mateship, fun and team spirit, enjoying the fresh air, and maybe even seeing how fortunate we are that we have the oval right here!  Students in major city schools are not nearly as fortunate as we are, and what could be more fun than coming down to the oval, taking part in events and activities, and cheering on your mates to reach their best?  What are we if we can’t support each other?

Our Athletics Carnival also includes the acknowledgement of the highest points won by an individual student by the awarding of the Billy Hardy Memorial Trophy, we also witness and award the winner of the Serone Sprint, cheer on the announcement of the winning house on the day, and mark our time here as our Year 12 students experience another ‘last’ as the Class of 2025 - all these milestones indelibly written on the pages of our school’s history.  (More information will be shared soon about this year’s carnival.)

Therefore, I hope all our parents and carers support the College by sending their child to school that day.  Go SJC!  Go St Joeys!

Information for families

I ask that you please take the time to read through this newsletter, as you will find more important information that will help you navigate your way through this busy term.

I would like to thank you all for your continued support for all that we do here.

Saint Joseph.  Pray for us.

God Bless

Mr Ryan Campbell
Principal

Principal's Notes

Information from NSW Fire and Rescue

According to NSW Fire and Rescue, in NSW, portable lithium-ion batteries have become a leading fire hazard, posing serious risks in homes, workplaces, and waste facilities.  By taking simple steps at each stage of a battery's life cycle-shopping, using, charging, and recycling — you can protect yourself, your loved ones, your workers and your community.

In an effort to spread awareness, NSW Fire and Rescue have shared with schools across the Lismore Diocese, resources regarding Lithium Battery awareness and safety.

I ask you to take some time together as a family to read this very important information.

Reminder: Term 2 Dates

To assist families with forward planning through this term, a reminder of the scheduled student-free days:

• Friday 6 June:  Staff Professional Learning Day (*Reminder of date change)
• Monday 9 June:  King’s Birthday (all NSW schools closed for the Public Holiday)
• Thursday 3 July:  Staff Professional Learning Day
• Friday 4 July:  Staff Spirituality Day

Therefore, Term 2 lessons conclude on Wednesday 2 July.

Reminder:  Uniform Expectations - Terms 2 and 3 ‘Winter Uniform’

We would like to provide some timely reminders regarding uniform from this term and into the next one.  This includes our boys wearing ties for Term 2 and 3.

Please note that only the College jumper or College jacket can be worn as outer garments.  No other jumpers, hoodies, jackets, etc can be worn.

For further information, the College Uniform Policy can be found on the College website.  Parents and carers are asked to positively encourage correct uniform and grooming at all times.  Students should leave home and travel to the College dressed as per expectations here at the College.  Uniform or grooming concerns may result in punitive actions taken until the matter is resolved.

The upcoming weekend is a great opportunity to rectify any issues regarding dress standards and personal grooming habits, and a way to start the new week well.

Reminder:  Duty of Care and Student Departures Through the School Day

It is a requirement of the College that when your child is to leave school early, they are to leave in the company of their parent or carer (you or the nominated person as provided in your note), to ensure all Duty of Care responsibilities are met.

This is part of the process that includes:

• providing your child with a note (brief explanation, time of departure) which they are to present to Student Reception on their arrival at school
• you reminding your child to meet you at Parent Reception at the time given on the note
• and you coming in to the Parent Reception to sign them out

Please allow enough time to park and walk up to the Parent Reception to collect your child/ren.  Please also be mindful that this process is done in the best interest of our students, your child/ren, to ensure they get to where they need to go as safely as possible.  Please be patient with our staff assisting at Parent Reception to ensure these processes are followed.

We ask all visitors to please remain calm and speak with respect to our staff.  They are simply following our procedure and we are doing our best to ensure the safety of our students.

It is our Duty of Care to provide a safe and supportive environment, and this also includes being able to identify any adult who comes to our Parent Reception to collect a student.  If we do not follow procedure, potentially a student could leave our school grounds with an unidentified adult, for which we are not prepared to take that risk for safety and legal reasons.

Afternoon Learning Hub

Our Afternoon Learning Hub is back in the Library and again up and running!  A reminder of the dates and times:  Tuesday to Thursday from 3:15pm to 5pm.

St Joseph's Parish

St Joseph's Catholic Church, 56 Frances Street, Tweed Heads

Weekday Mass times

• Monday to Friday – 9:10am

Weekend Mass times

• Saturday – 9:00am
• Saturday Vigil Mass – 5:00pm
• Sunday – 7:00am & 9:00am

St Camillus Catholic Church, 36 Urliup Road, Bilambil

• Sunday – 9:00am

St Anthony's Parish

St Anthony’s Church, Kingscliff, 12-14 Pearl Street, Kingscliff

Weekday Mass times

• Wednesday – 8:00am
• Thursday – 9:00am in the school term and 8:00am in the holiday period
• Friday – 8:00am

Weekend Mass times

• Saturday – 5:00pm (6pm during DST)
• Sunday – 9:00am

Sts Mary & Ambrose Catholic Church, 1 Charles Street, Pottsville

Weekday Mass times

• Tuesday – 9:15am

Weekend Mass times

• Sunday – 7:30am

Reconciliation Times

• Kingscliff – Saturday 5:00 – 5:30pm 
• Pottsville – Sunday 7:00 – 7:25am

Assistant Principal - Mission

Tell Them From Me Survey

Each year, St Joseph’s College invites students, parents and teachers to provide feedback on their experience of our school using an online survey.  The surveys are an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process.

For parents / carers, we would like to invite you to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey.  As we value the role of parents / carers within our school community we would greatly appreciate your feedback.  The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at St Joseph’s College.  The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.

The link to the survey, in addition to further information, has been sent via Compass.

Boys and Young Men Online Free Parent Webinar

Free Parent Webinar: Boys and Young Men Online, Tuesday 27 May, 12:30-1:15pm

For boys and young men, the internet can be a place where they seek connection, validation and guidance as they explore what it means to be a man today.  However, it also exposes them to risks like concerning content, online exploitation and the growing influence of harmful ideologies.

This free webinar will help parents understand:

• Social and cultural influences shaping boys and young men.
• How boys engage online, build relationships and how they may be vulnerable to manipulation or exploitation.
• The impact of social media, gaming, and influencers on their attitudes, behaviours and sense of identity.
• Practical strategies to build critical thinking, challenge harmful narratives, and create open conversations that empower boys and young men to navigate the online world safely and respectfully.

Register for this webinar here.

ParentTalk:  Free Webinars for Parents

The Council of Catholic School Parents is hosting a number of helpful webinars for parents on a variety of topics.  Please refer to the CCSP Free Webinars in Term 2.  

No doubt our families would be aware of the Council of Catholic School Parents which was established in 1995.  The CCSP is the body officially recognised by the Bishops of NSW/ACT and Catholic Schools NSW to represent the interests of families of children in all NSW Catholic schools. (Click here for CCSP website)

The CCSP ParentTalk newsletter aims to provide parents and carers with relevant and timely information about developments in education, wellbeing, CCSP advocacy program and significant Catholic news and events.  Parents may also like to subscribe to the ParentTalk newsletter, which provides interesting articles for parents in Catholic schools.

Click here for the Latest Newsletter

Click here for the Newsletter Archive

Free Online Summit: Parenting Children with ADHD

ADHD Parenting Summit: 26-28 May 2025

Raising a child with ADHD? 

Parents are invited to register for the FREE International ADHD Parenting Summit, featuring leading global experts, practical strategies, and real-life advice to help children with ADHD thrive.  Accessible online from anywhere.  This Summit runs from 26 to 28 May.  Register here.

Student Engagement and Application Reports

St Joseph’s College provides Student Engagement and Application Reports (SEAAR) periodically throughout the year.  SEAAR is a system that monitors and acknowledges students' individual effort and application in each subject.  Scores are based on each student’s effort in completing classwork and homework to the best of their ability; being punctual and organised for class; and behaviour in the learning environment.  SEAAR Cycle 2 was released on Friday 11 April.  If you have not already done so, please visit Compass to access and view your child’s SEAAR and have a conversation with them regarding areas of strength and areas for growth.

Please note that those students who receive a ‘Gold SEAAR’ across all cycles throughout the year will be invited to attend the Rewards Day at Wet ‘n’ Wild at the end of the year.

SEAAR Cycle 3 will be released in Week 5 (Term 2).

Congratulations to the students below who received a perfect SEAAR average of 5.0 for Cycle 2:

Mr Eamon Brown
Assistant Principal - Mission

Leader of Pastoral Care

LifeChanger 2025

As part of our commitment to holistic student development, we are excited to announce that the LifeChanger Foundation has now partnered with the College to deliver a series of workshops to students across Years 7-11 in 2025.  The program's focus on personal growth, emotional intelligence, self-esteem, leadership, and connection.

LifeChanger’s evidence-based programs confront the challenges and alarming statistics that face today’s youth through a combination of face-to-face workshops and digital resources.

Program Overview:

• Year 7:  Immersion (20 May), Connection (10 June), Activation (3 December).  Sessions occur in class groups across scheduled lessons
   

• Year 8:  Five workshops in Term 3 (Weeks 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9) rotating through class groups.
   

• Year 9:  One half-day workshop (Self Esteem) on Friday 29 August.
   

• Year 10:  Whole-cohort 2-hour workshop and a mentor session on Friday 14 November.
   

• Year 11:  Two whole-cohort workshops – Leadership (1 August) and Stress Less (25 August).

Reminder: Seminar Opportunity - Maggie Dent Live Event at St Joseph's College, 10 June 2025

Exploring Children's Anxiety

Maggie Dent is one of Australia’s favourite parenting authors, educators and podcasters, with a particular interest in resilience, the early years and adolescence. Commonly known as the ‘queen of common sense’, she is also an undisputed ‘boy champion’. (read more about Maggie at maggiedent.com)
 
Seminar information:
The landscape of childhood and childhood stress is changing, and anxiety is now much more prevalent for our children.  Maggie Dent explores what anxiety is and what we as parents and educators can do to help reduce anxiety and fear in today’s kids. Maggie has been writing about the importance of calmness and stillness in children’s lives since publishing her 2003 book Saving Our Children From Our Chaotic World.   As well as helping you better understand anxiety, Maggie shares many highly practical, helpful and simple strategies to support a calmer home or classroom and, ultimately, calmer, happier kids. 

Date:  Tuesday 10 June 2025
Time:  6:30pm-8:30pm (doors open at 5:45pm for a 6:30pm start) NSW time
Tickets:  $40

Please book online via trybooking here

Download printable event flyer: here

Please note this event is general admission (so you can sit wherever you like) and babes in arms are welcome at Maggie’s seminars. This event is not suitable for toddlers and older children.

If the event sells out, a waiting list will open on the ticketing page.  If you add your name to the wait list, the organisers will notify everyone on that list via email if an extra ticket allocation becomes available.

For any further enquiries, please contact Mathew Lynch, Leader of Pastoral Care at St Joseph's College.
mathew.lynch@lism.catholic.edu.au

Mr Mathew Lynch
Leader of Pastoral Care

Leader of Curriculum

Refer to the link below to view the updated Assessment Handbooks and Assessment Calendars on the College website:

https://sjcbanorapoint.schoolzineplus.com/

Mr Matthew Hall
Leader of Curriculum

Leader of Pedagogy

Study Skills Tips for May:  Gamifying Your Study Routine

As outlined in my last newsletter article, through our subscription, all College students have free access to the Study Skills Handbook website, www.studyskillshandbook.com.au.  We believe that this website will help your child develop essential skills for academic success.  

Attached is a flyer for this month’s Study Skills Tips on Gamifying Your Study Routine, with ideas on How to turn your study sessions into an exciting challenge (click on the link provided, or see the flyer below).

As always, your child can access all the wonderful resources the Study Skills Handbook website has to offer.  To access the handbook, go to www.studyskillshandbook.com.au and login with these details:

username:  sjc
password:  24results

Mr Carlo Trimboli
Leader of Pedagogy

Acting Leader of Learning - HSIE

Students Participate in Mock Federal Election

During Week 1, students from Years 9 and 10 Commerce and Year 11 Economics had the opportunity to engage in the democratic process by participating in a mock Federal Election.  With the assistance of our enthusiastic Year 7 and 8 volunteer Election Officials, students experienced what it’s like to visit a polling booth on election day—from receiving party pamphlets at the entrance to casting their vote in private polling booths.

Our student election officials helped create a realistic experience by marking names off the electoral roll and confirming whether each student had already voted.  The only thing missing was the classic democracy sausage sizzle!

Students cast votes for both the House of Representatives and the Senate, mirroring the real federal election process.  Before voting, they had time to explore the policies of each political party and then select the candidates that best aligned with their values.

With the votes now being counted, students—many of whom will be eligible to vote in the next Federal Election—gained valuable, hands-on insight into how to vote and how Australia’s political system operates.

Here’s what some of the students had to say about the experience:

Hailey: The class voting activity was such a great experience; it really helped me understand how the Australian voting system operates.  It felt very realistic, with the ballot papers, polling booths, and even mock workers creating an authentic election-day atmosphere.  I found the large Senate ballot paper a bit challenging at first because there were so many names and political parties to choose from, but it showed me how important it is to be informed before voting.

Kaitlyn: I learnt how to vote and to make sure in the future, when I vote, that my vote is valid and makes a difference instead of it being an informal vote.  I have learnt that I need to be educated about who I am voting for.

Luca: The mock election helped to showcase the process and steps needed to vote in real life, as well as the different social aspects that are involved, such as the volunteers handing out pamphlets.  By doing this mock election, it helped to prepare us for the real world and allowed us to make informed decisions.

Orla: I have learnt how to vote and the importance of understanding who and what you are voting for, as some people are completely unaware of what their vote is going towards and are also unaware of how to vote, causing their vote to not be counted in elections. 

Liam: Through this mock election I have learnt just how many mistakes can be made that make your vote invalid, as well as how many people, either knowingly or not, give invalid ballots—such as not numbering every box (except for on the lower half of the Senate paper), giving any identification, or labelling the boxes 1–7/a “donkey vote.”  In addition, it has helped me to know how to vote following my values. I believe it is integral that the youth of Australia know how to ensure that their voice is heard and that their vote is important.

Olivia: I have learnt how to vote in an Australian election, as well as what makes your vote valid and the difference that comes from voting above and below the line for the Senate.  I enjoyed the mock election as it mirrored what a real election is like, allowing me to learn the importance and difference that my vote can make.

Charlotte: I have learnt the difference between voting for a candidate in the House of Representatives and the Senate, and how to vote above or below the line for the Senate, as well as what would be considered an invalid, informal vote.

Thalia: I have learnt how the Australian preferential voting system actually works, and how sometimes, when someone gets the most number of number one votes in an electorate, they don’t always end up winning because of the preferred votes of other parties.  I have enjoyed researching the core values and policies of different political parties and liked doing the mock vote in which we voted for who we believed should win the election.

Blake: I have learnt how to vote and the process people go through to appoint a government and the Prime Minister.  I enjoyed the fairly realistic conditions that closely mirror those of an actual voting process at a polling centre.

Isabella: I learnt how voting works, e.g. how to vote, who's running in the election, and how the preferential voting system works.  I also learnt much about our local electorate and how the Member for Richmond got elected.  Before this, I had no idea of the process involving the federal election. It was also good to learn who we are voting for, because, for the majority of people, they are unaware of who they are voting for and what their vote is going towards.

Luke: I have learnt how to vote and the processes that are involved in voting.  Before this, I didn't know the format and structure of the federal election, as well as the preferential system.  I also learnt about the parties and their own individual policies.

Josh: I have learnt many things in Commerce that I did not previously know.  I did not know how to vote, I did not know what the preferential system was, I didn’t know how many seats each party had in parliament, or that the Coalition was made up of the Liberals and the Nationals.

Jesse: I have learnt a great number of things about politics and how to vote.  I learnt how the preferential system works and how complex it really is.

Hamish: I have learnt the importance of learning how to vote and the process people go through when going to vote.  I liked learning about the seats taken in parliament and how they represent us, making laws.  I also learnt about the preferential system, as it is not part of countries like America.

Nixon: I have learnt how important it is to vote.

Mrs Kristy Mcleod
Class Teacher

Mrs Georgia James
Acting Leader of Learning - HSIE

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 10

Next

Leader of Learning - Creative Arts

Congratulations to all our students on their enthusiasm with their learning in the creative and performing arts at St Joseph's College.  Today, we share with you, the work of one of our students.

Mrs Nicole Taylor
Leader of Learning - Creative Arts

Creative and Performing Artist in Focus

Artist:  Scarlet Mcleod
Year 8 Visual Arts student
Title:  “Pablo Picasso inspired Portrait”
Media:  Acrylic Paint and Posca Pen

My painting is Cubist-themed, which is a topic I have been studying in Year 8 Visual Arts over the past term.  Our brief was to complete a Picasso-style painting, with the theme of 'Portraiture'.  This meant it had to include geometric shapes, bold outlines, and flat blocks of colour.  I went for more of a fairytale theme as I used a softer pastel palette.

Doing this painting was a fun project and a great way to be creative through using colour.  I love painting and creating art because it is a way to express myself and I find it relaxing.  Having the opportunity to paint a portrait in Picasso style was a new experience as I've never painted anything like this before.  I'm very happy with how it turned out in the end.

Resource Centre News

Term 2 Update

As we move through Term 2, the Resource Centre continues to be a vibrant hub of learning, reading, and reflection.  Here's what's new and happening in the library!

 Senior Study Groups – Collaboration & Focus

Our Year 11 and Year 12 students are making great use of the Resource Centre during study periods and after school. Dedicated Senior Study Groups are running strong, offering a supportive environment to revise, work on assignments, and prepare for assessments.  With access to quiet zones, subject-specific resources, and peer collaboration, the library is the perfect place to stay on top of studies.

New Arrivals – Fresh Reads on Our Shelves

We’re excited to announce a new collection of fiction and non-fiction titles now available for borrowing!  From thrilling young adult novels and contemporary issues to biographies and science breakthroughs, there’s something to spark interest in every reader.  Come check out the “New Books” display and be the first to get your hands on the latest titles.

Mother’s Day Display – Celebrating Special Bonds

In honour of Mother’s Day, the Resource Centre has curated a heart-warming display featuring books that explore family, love, and resilience.  Take a moment to browse the collection—and maybe even borrow a book to share with someone special this weekend.

National Careers Week – Explore Your Future

We’re also celebrating National Careers Week with an engaging display of resources, guides, and information about career pathways, university courses, and vocational options.  Students are encouraged to browse the display, ask questions, and consider how their current learning can shape their future careers.

Ms Mary Green
Teacher Librarian

Sport News

Titans Netball Challenge

On Tuesday 6 May, two SJC netball teams competed at Coomera in the Titans Netball Challenge.  For the 7/8 girls this was their first time representing SJC in netball.  They played teams such as Marsden State, St Andrews Lutheran and Kings Pimpama, having some narrow wins and losses.  Developing well as a team throughout the day, they placed 3rd in their pool and are excited for more netball competitions later in the year.

The senior girls team used the day to help prepare for the upcoming Vicki Wilson competition later this month in Palm Beach.  Coming up against teams they don’t usually compete against, they led early after game 1.  However, they unfortunately went down in game two to Marsden College in a very close game.  With a win following and a win in the first round of playoffs, they finished the day 2nd in their pool.  It was a brilliant effort by all, especially defensively, but it was Eva Liles and Lily Blundell who were standouts on the day for their consistency in lifting the team. 

Miss Hannah Toohey

Sports Academy News

Sports Academy Student Success Term 2

1. Indigo winning at her recent equestrian event at Southport. 
2. Indy and Reign trialling at NSWCCC AFL 
3. Eva and Lily State Champions at Ipswich for Netball. 
4. Elodie and Eve winning Division 2 at State Championships Hockey in Townsville. 
5. Summer as Captain of our Jaime Chapman winning 9’s competition featuring Claire, Annika and Lily.  Indy, Ava, Reign were also awesome on the day playing a different sport and Luca scored plenty of tries. 

Students have been working hard with some fitness, testing in both cardio (Bronco and 1.2km) and strength, as well as agility work with Mitch.  Mrs Bell has had the early risers running well on Thursday mornings, and Ms Robb has worked hard with our younger students on their goals for the term/year. 

Tommy Viera returned for another culture session which was well received, and our new records board has also been installed. 

Our junior students have also had sessions at Strong Pilates in Tweed, and the senior students completed a workshop from Peta Ellis from EverydayEntrepreneur365 in educating them on the importance of their brand and profile and how the social media world can work positively for them as emerging athletes. 

On & UP!

We also wish Mrs Tutt congratulations on the birth of baby girl number 2, and also Mitch from ACME on the arrival of baby girl number 1.  

Mr Damien Quinn
Acting Sports Academy Coordinator

Canteen

A reminder that our school canteen operates during term time, opening at 8:00am for recess and/or lunch orders before the school day commences.  Both cash transactions and EFTPOS facilities are available at the canteen during recess and lunchtime.

Meals are freshly prepared every day, and the choices are diverse and healthy so you can be assured that your child has access to a nutritious lunch whilst at school.  The canteen also offers a variety of gluten-free and other special menu options, so please do not hesitate to contact the canteen staff to discuss these alternatives.

We ask you to please ensure your child places their LUNCH AND/OR RECESS ORDER by 9:00am.

Canteen Price List 2025

The Canteen Ladies

Lowes On-Campus Uniform Shop

The uniform shop hours are as follows: 

Every Tuesday during the school term: 12:00pm – 3:30pm
Every Thursday during the school term: 8:00am – 12:00pm

During shop hours: (07) 5523 9300
This shop is managed by Lowes staff only

Click on the link to see the new price list that came into effect this term (as previously provided).

Payments: Cash and EFTPOS Only
NO CHEQUES ACCEPTED

Or, if you'd like to make an online purchase, you can use this handy link.