Newsletter 10: Monday 4 November 2024

Principal's Message

Dear Members of the St Joseph’s College Family,

Celebrating Fr Michael Brady

As our school community is aware, this coming Monday we are celebrating a very special mass for Fr Michael Brady, honouring his twenty years as Parish Priest in the St Joseph’s Parish of Tweed Heads.

“The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus.
When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 

St John Vianney, Patron Saint of Parish Priests

Fr Michael has been of constant and unfailing support to the College Principals (past and present), the staff and the students of our fine school.  On behalf of the school community, I would most sincerely like to thank you, Fr Michael, for all that you have done for all of us these past twenty years.

As our Parish Priest, your holy service to the Lord has touched so many hearts and has inspired so many lives, with your living examples of service and devoted care of others.  May God’s goodness and kindness be with you on the occasion of this special mass of celebration, and all the days of your life.  

We were very privileged today to mark this occasion with a special mass honouring Fr Michael for his most faithful and dedicated Priestly service.

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Examinations

With three weeks of this term already completed, we’ve well and truly settled into this final term of the 2024 school year.  Time is always of the essence in schools, and never more so than in fourth term.  It’s the time for reviewing what you’ve learned as well as preparing for the new school year.

One more week remains for those Year 12 students sitting the HSC this year and, most sincerely, I encourage you all to keep going.  You’ve made it this far, so don’t let up now!  In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us of “the need to pray continually and never to lose heart” (Lk 18:1), as it is in prayer that we find peace, comfort, and God’s mercy.

Prayer before Examinations
Jesus, teacher and friend, be with me now as I sit this exam.  Give me a peaceful heart, a focused mind, and a steady hand.  Help me to remember what I have learned, to answer wisely and well, and to persevere when I am tired and weary.

Amen.

Similarly, our junior years will shortly commence their Yearly exams:  with Year 10 students starting theirs on Friday 8 November; and followed by Years 7-9 exams, which begin on Thursday 21 November.  Our Assistant Principal-Learning and Teaching, Mr Chris Mason, has further information about these in his report in today’s newsletter.

Commitment, consistency and persistence are what I see as three of the most important characteristics of success in life; you might call them turning up, sticking to it, and seeing it through to the end.  If you also add into the mix a good measure of flexibility and tenacity - maybe what our grandparents once called grit - you might have established the basics of your lifelong learning journey.

So:  (1) Make a commitment; (2) Organise your learning; (3) Be efficient; and (4) Focus.

Our Leader of Pedagogy, Mr Carlo Trimboli, has included an article in today’s newsletter with the Study Skills Tips for October:  Parental Support During Assessment Periods which is very interesting reading.  ReachOut also has some helpful ideas for students on how to deal with exam anxiety.

I encourage you to always support your child through the learning journey as we head towards ‘yearlies’, and to keep in mind these are exams to test their current knowledge.  This is an opportunity to see where each of them are at, and if the marks aren’t what you or they might expect, there is always the opportunity to improve and recommit to learning.

And never forget that your faith is at the foundation of all that you do.  Remember that God loves you and you are in God's presence.

Prayer before Study 

Creator of all things,
true Source of light and wisdom, lofty origin of all being,
graciously let a ray of Your brilliance
penetrate into the darkness of my understanding
and take from me the double darkness in which I have been born,
an obscurity of both sin and ignorance.

Give me a sharp sense of understanding, a retentive memory,
and the ability to grasp things correctly and fundamentally.
Grant me the talent of being exact in my explanations,
and the ability to express myself with thoroughness and charm.
Point out the beginning, direct the progress, and help in completion;
through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

(St Thomas Aquinas)

Term 4 Week 2 College Assembly

At the College Assembly held on Tuesday 22 October, we recognised the following students for their efforts and achievements:

College Sports Award:

College House Award:

Outstanding achievements across the board - Congratulations to you all!

Remembrance Day - Monday 11 November 

On 11 November every year, we as a nation commemorate Remembrance Day.  

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs states that:

Remembrance Day is one of the most important days on our commemorative calendar. It's a day when we acknowledge those who died or suffered while serving in wars, conflicts and peace operations. Remembrance Day is held on 11 November each year. This is the anniversary of the Armistice of 1918 that ended fighting in World War I.  The war didn't officially end until 28 June 1919 with the Treaty of Versailles.  People in Australia and many other countries observe one minute's silence at the 11 th hour of the 11 th day of the 11 th month because that's when the Armistice came into effect.  It's a time to honour our service personnel who died or suffered in service of Australia.

We will join in the observance of a minute’s silence on Monday 11 November.

Year 12 2024 - Graduation Formal - Friday 15 November

I have been amazed by this year group, and am very proud to have been Principal this year and to have witnessed them strengthen the bonds of friendship formed over their time at the College, and how they have shown such great support for each other.

In just a couple of weeks, the final rite of passage of Year 12 2024 takes place with the celebrations at our Graduation Formal on the evening of Friday 15 November.  This is their very last school function and we wish them all very well.  I’m sure the evening will be a great success.

Year 7 2025 Orientation Day - Wednesday 20 November

We look forward to welcoming Year 6 students to the College for their Year 7 2025 Orientation Day on Wednesday 20 November.  It is always fun to witness their excitement as the newest intake of SJC students spends the day here, getting to know one another, and refreshing themselves on all they might expect to encounter when they start school with us next year at the College.  And so another season begins!  

Again, I thank you for your continued support of all that we do at the College.  It is greatly appreciated.

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 to the mid-point of this term.  By keeping up-to-date with all that is happening, it ensures that your child gets the most out of each day at school.

God Bless

Mr Ryan Campbell
Principal

Principal's Notes

Leaving St Joseph’s College

During the second semester of a school year, families tend to make decisions about moving to a new area because of employment changes, etc.

We ask that all parents/carers of students who will not be returning to St Joseph’s College in 2025, to either send in a letter or to email the College (sjcbanora@lism.catholic.edu.au) confirming when the student will be leaving and the new school or institution they will be attending.

All students who leave St Joseph’s College are required to complete a Clearance Form which includes the return of all College library books and textbooks.

Term 4 Student-Free Days

A reminder of the student-free day taking place this term (and notified in the last newsletter, Friday 27 September, Term 3):

To assist families with forward planning (throughout the upcoming term), please take note of the scheduled student-free day/s below:

• Monday 18 November (Week 6): Staff Professional Learning Day

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

Art Onshow 2024

Our College would like to invite you to view the amazing Creative and Performing Arts that will be on display from Tuesday 19 November and Wednesday 20 November (Week 6).

Our Visual Arts students have created some wonderful work this year and they would love to share it with our community.  Performances by our Year 10 elective music class will be throughout the evening.  Opening night is Tuesday 19 November from 5:30pm to 7pm.  We look forward to seeing you there.  The following day, 20 November, will be open from 9am-3pm only.

Vietnam Immersion 2024

This year, St Joseph’s College proudly sent their tenth group of Year 11 students on a life-changing Vietnam Immersion, continuing their mission to support vulnerable communities in southern Vietnam.  The immersion is designed to provide both financial aid and hands-on assistance, with the centrepiece of the trip being the construction of a brick home for a family living well below the poverty line.  This year, the students built a home for a family of four—a husband, his wife, and their two young children—transforming not just their living conditions but their future making this the tenth house St Joseph’s College has built in Vietnam since 2012.

This year, St Joseph’s College proudly sent their tenth group of Year 11 students on a life-changing Vietnam Immersion, continuing their mission to support vulnerable communities in southern Vietnam.  The immersion is designed to provide both financial aid and hands-on assistance, with the centrepiece of the trip being the construction of a brick home for a family living well below the poverty line.  This year, the students built a home for a family of four—a husband, his wife, and their two young children—transforming not just their living conditions but their future making this the tenth house St Joseph’s College has built in Vietnam since 2012.

Beyond the house-building project, students spent time working at an orphanage for young people with disabilities, offering care and companionship to some of the community's most vulnerable.  To enrich their experience, the group also enjoyed cultural excursions, exploring the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City and the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta, immersing themselves in the colours, sounds and spirit of Vietnam.

Under sweltering conditions, with temperatures reaching 33°C and humidity levels at a staggering 95%, the students and their teachers pushed through as they mixed sand, cement and water by hand to create concrete, laid bricks and shifted cubic meters of soil.  By the end of the first day, the students had pledged never to take life’s comforts for granted again.  By the second day, many confessed they had never worked so hard in their lives.  By the third, the house began to take form—a testament to their dedication and teamwork.

Throughout the year, this dedicated group of fifteen students and their teachers worked tirelessly to raise the $10,000 needed for the project.  Through community barbecues and securing sponsorships from local businesses, they embodied the spirit of service that St Joseph’s College nurtures in its students.

This annual immersion not only forges deep connections with communities in Vietnam but also strengthens the bonds within the St Joseph’s College family.  Over the years, siblings have followed each other on the immersion and staff members have had the privilege of witnessing their own children grow through these transformative experiences.  This enduring commitment to helping those in need is a cornerstone of Catholic education at St Joseph’s College. While academic excellence is highly valued, the ultimate goal is to shape compassionate, socially conscious young people who love learning, themselves, and others in the world around them.

If you're a business or community member interested in sponsoring St Joseph’s College’s 2025 Vietnam Immersion program, we encourage you to reach out to the College.  Your generous support will be greatly appreciated and will directly benefit families in need.

Mr Carlo Trimboli
On behalf of the 2024 Vietnam Immersion Team

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Assistant Principal-Mission

Parent Talk

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.

Introduced this year, the CCSP Parent Talk 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.  (You can subscribe here.)

Click here for the Latest Newsletter

Click here for the Newsletter Archive

FREE Parent Presentation: 'Keeping Our Kids Safe on Social Media' - Monday 25 November 2024

The Catholic Schools Parent Assembly has arranged for another free presentation for our parents and carers on Monday 25 November, at St Anthony's Primary School, Kingscliff.  Light refreshments will be available from 5:15pm, with the main presentation taking place from 5:30-6:30pm on:  KEEPING OUR KIDS SAFE ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

This presentation is suitable for parents of both primary and secondary children.  Even if you have been to one of Kirra's presentations before, there is new and updated information in the ever-changing online world.

This presentation is open to all parents and carers of a student attending a Lismore Diocese school.  You can register here.  Please see the attached flyer for more information, or call 0407 143 975.

Free Webinars for Parents and Carers - eSafety - November and December

The Catholic Schools Office has advised that all parents and carers in the school community have access to the following free, live webinars.  These live webinars give parents and carers the knowledge, skills, and tools to support their children in having safe online experiences.
 
Supporting healthy tech use as your child transitions into high school.
This webinar explores the social pressures, peer influences, and technological challenges young people face as they transition into high school.  It also offers practical strategies for navigating online friendships and connections to help minimise negative experiences.

It is suitable for parents and carers of children in upper primary school (ages 11 to 12) and Year 7.

Thursday, 28 November, 12.30 pm
Registration link 

eSafety 101: how eSafety can help you.
An overview of The eSafety Commissioner and supporting programs and resources for parents and carers, children, and young people.

It is suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and secondary school.

Wednesday, 4 December, 12.30pm
Registration link

St Joseph's Parish 'Parish Pantry' Food Drive

Each week our Parish gives support to families in need or people who may be homeless by providing a bag of non-perishable food items. 

At the moment they are getting very low on supplies in the Parish Pantry, and are seeking the assistance from our College community to restock so they can continue to provide this support.  If you would like to bring in anything from the list provided in this newsletter, we will arrange to get it to the Parish.  Your help would be appreciated by all, especially those doing it pretty tough at the moment.

Student Engagement and Application Reports (SEAAR)

As you would be aware, 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 5 was released on the afternoon of Friday 27 September.

Please view this video if you need support in how to access and view your child’s SEAAR.  Students will be asked to complete a SEAAR reflection in AWC.  Please have a conversation with your child about how they went in SEAAR, and more specifically, 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.

Congratulations to the students below who received a perfect SEAAR average of 5.0 for Cycle 5:

Mr Eamon Brown
Assistant Principal - Mission

Shine

In Week 6 of last term, the Year 9 and 10 ministry class and a group of senior student volunteers, were fortunate enough to attend the Shine conference at St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour.  This event attracts over 600 students from schools all over the Lismore Diocese. Our students had a blast and enjoyed the keynote speakers, workshops and the opportunities to grow in their faith. 

Ignite

In Week 9 of last term, St Joseph’s College had eight students attend Ignite Conference at St Laurence’s College, Brisbane.  Ignite was held over four days, and attracted over 1500 young people from all over the Brisbane and Lismore Dioceses.  Some highlights for the students included the workshops, Kim’s Couch testimony session and the rallies.  Overall it was a great faith experience for our students, and we look forward to taking a group again next year! 

Emmanuel City Mission Volunteer Visit

A small group of year 11 students will be travelling to Emmanuel City Mission (ECM) in Week 3 of this term.  ECM is a homeless shelter / service hub for the homeless and disadvantaged people of Brisbane.  For more information, please visit their website: https://emmanuelcitymission.com/

After running sausage sizzle fundraisers during school lunch times, this group of students raised over $650 to provide breakfast and lunch for the patrons of ECM for the day.  Here are some of their highlights and experiences.

On Monday 28th of October, a group of Year 11 students spent the day volunteering at Emmanuel City Mission in Brisbane.  We started the day off early at 6am where we drove up in the school car and served bacon and eggs for breakfast for those in need.  My friend Sukh and I then spent quite a few hours in the coffee area where we made and served coffee to the homeless as they ordered.  We then served a hot lunch and helped clean up some dishes, stocked the pantry and organised clothes for Vinnies.  After we finished serving for the day, Max and Jill from ECM sat with us and we debriefed as a group and spoke about some statistics and information about homelessness and they shared the future goals / mission behind Emmanuel City Mission.

It was a very good day that really encouraged me to want to volunteer and help those in need more!  I hope to be back soon to help out again. 

(Taya Monahan)

For breakfast, I was on egg duty, I cooked 36 eggs and Shreya cooked 36 as well.  After that I helped clean up from the breakfast and began to help debone chickens for the next hour or two.  Once we ran out of chicken to debone, I helped stir a large pot with a meal that they were preparing for later in the week.

A highlight from the day at Emmanuel City Mission was helping out in the coffee and toast area.  A few of us were making coffees and handing them out to the homeless at their request. 

To finish up the day we had a debrief and were also told about the future hopes and ideas for ECM.  We were also told about some of the different people who come into ECM and the different things they can provide. 

(Ketynah Philip)

G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All Time) Retreat - 13-15th November 

We are excited for the 2024 G.O.A.T. Retreat, which is coming up in Week 5 of this term.  This retreat is a new initiative being facilitated by the Catholic Schools Office Evangelisation Team (Proclaim Lismore) for year 10 men.  It  aims to inspire and encourage young men to embrace their purpose and passion through keynote speakers, physical challenges and various faith-based activities. 

Youth Mass - 17th November 

Youth Mass will be held at the St Joseph’s Parish, Tweed Heads on Sunday 17th November at 5:30pm. All students, staff and parents of the St Joseph’s community are welcome to attend. 

The College Youth Ministers will be facilitating a youth group for students in years 7-12 afterwards. Participants will need to bring $5 to contribute towards dinner. 

Kairos - 10-13th December 

Our College is excited to announce that we will hold our first Kairos Retreat since the Covid pandemic in week 9 of this term. 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank St John’s College, Woodlawn for their collaboration in making this Kairos Retreat possible. 

Kairos is a life changing experience, and we are excited to bring this opportunity back for our students. 

Assistant Principal-Learning and Teaching

HSC Examinations

Our Year 12 students have continued to apply themselves to their HSC examinations with a calm diligence.  We are very proud of their application, dedication and resilience, and we congratulate them on a job well done.  At the time of writing, there is only one week of exams left.  We wish all our Year 12 students the very best in their remaining exams and look forward to celebrating their results on 18 December.  We thank Mr Matt Hall, Mr Bob Sargent and all our exam supervisors for their care and support of our students during the exams.

Year 7-10 Examination blocks and preparation

As we move towards the end of the academic year, all junior students will sit formal examinations.  This is to provide students with experience in examination procedures and processes so they can become comfortable with them before they begin Stage 6.

• Year 10 examinations begin next Friday, 8/11/24. The Year 10 exam timetable can be found here.

• The Year 7 - 9 examinations begin in Week 6. Timetables can be found here: Year 7; Year 8; Year 9.

All students have been provided with study guides that contain a summary of topics being examined, a series of practice questions, and a practice paper.  They have also been working on study skills in AWC, so we hope that students are feeling well informed and prepared for their examinations.

Year 11 Work Placement

Next week, our Year 11 Construction and Hospitality students will be on work placement.  This is a mandatory requirement of their courses which allows them to practice their skills and meet the competencies of their courses in a real-world work environment.  We thank Mr Carroll, Ms Banko and Ms Parker for their support of these students.

SJC Nepal Expedition, 2026 - Online information night, Monday 11 November, 6:00pm

I have proposed that the College take a group of students to Nepal in April 2026 to trek to Annapurna Base Camp and engage in a community service project in rural Nepal, which is still suffering the effects of the 2015 earthquake.  Having led three similar expeditions in Nepal and India from my previous school, I can attest to the life-changing experience it affords students.  The expedition will be run by ‘World Challenge’, who have been operating for over 30 years in the travel/education space.

To test the level of interest in such a trip, we will host an online information evening at 6:00pm on Monday 11 November.  The link below takes you to a page where you can read about the trip, look at the itinerary and register for the information evening.

https://weareworldchallenge.com/trips/e3ub57w/

Mr Chris Mason
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Leader of Curriculum

*IMPORTANT NEWS FOR STUDENTS IN YEAR 12 2024*

NESA Results and certificates

Getting your results
HSC results are available in Students Online  and sent to students by email and SMS in December.  Students can also download and print their full credentials from  Students Online  in December.  Hard copies of the testamur (certificate) are sent in the mail in January the following year.  (THIS STATEMENT ONLY REFERS TO THE HSC CERTIFICATE, NOT VET COURSE CERTIFICATES.)

There are two vital reminders here:  Year 12 students' school email accounts will be deactivated on 20 December 2024.  The student's email attached to Students Online must be a personal email.  

VET Credentialing

VET credentials do not get sent to students.  The only NESA credential sent to students in bulk mail out is the HSC Testamur (Certificate). 

Students who study via school system RTOs need to download VET credentials via the Students Online > Certificates/eRecord function.

Remember, they MUST have a USI on record, and not have the course withheld, to be able to download the VET credential.  VET credentials will become available for download again from December 2024.

If a student is studying via TAFE or a Private Provider, the TAFE or Private Provider will provide any VET credential to the student, not NESA.

Mr Matthew Hall
Leader of Curriculum

Work Ready Pathway

Welcome to Term 4 and the Start of HSC for the Class of 2025!

The first few weeks of Term 4 have been very busy as our Year 11 students start their HSC courses while also managing their VET subjects and the second block of Work Placement.

With courses running simultaneously, students will soon enter a busy assessment period in the latter half of the term. It's important for everyone to plan ahead and manage their time effectively.  The HSC Assessment Handbook is a valuable resource for both students and families, outlining key rules, assessment procedures, and schedules for the entire HSC year in each subject.  I encourage you to take some time to review this handbook to stay informed about what’s required and to help your children navigate the upcoming assessment periods.

This term, we are excited to introduce a Certificate II in Active Volunteering into the Work Ready Pathway.  This VET course, taught alongside Catholic Faith in Action, offers students the chance to earn another qualification while participating in meaningful volunteering within our community.

To obtain this qualification, students must complete 20 hours of compulsory volunteering.  We are fortunate to have established partnerships with St Martha's Aged Care and St James Primary School, and we’re excited to welcome a new collaboration with the Salvos Store in Tweed Heads.  Last week, our groups began their volunteering hours by visiting these locations, and the students had a great time—especially those who found some bargains at the Salvos!

We are very fortunate to have the flexibility to include regular volunteering in our WRP students' patterns of study, and we look forward to seeing them build connections with the residents at St Martha's, the students at St James, and the staff and volunteers at the Salvos Store over the coming year.

Ms Hannah Lindschau
Leader of Work Ready Pathway

Year 11 WRP 2025 - Understanding School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT)

For students entering the Work Ready Pathway in Year 11 2025, a SBAT is a fantastic opportunity for them to start their career journey while completing their HSC. A SBAT is either an apprenticeship or traineeship that a student completes while still at school. It is common practice for employers to transition their SBATs into a full-time apprenticeship or full-time employment.

School-based apprenticeships and traineeships allow students to:

• Gain hands-on work experience while still in school
• Earn a wage for their work
• Work towards a nationally recognised qualification
• Complete their regular school studies alongside their apprenticeship or traineeship.

If you’re interested in a SBAT for 2025, now is the perfect time to start exploring your options, as the process of signing into the apprenticeship or traineeship can take some time. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Explore Your Interests: Think about the industries that excite you.

• Research: Look into different apprenticeship and traineeship options available in our area.

• Talk to Our Career Advisor: Ms Mason is here to help guide you through the process.

• Prepare Your Resume: Make sure to include any skills or knowledge that you have developed in your casual employment and the skills you’re developing here at St Joseph’s.

• Network: Start with family and friends; let them know that you’re seeking a SBAT and ask if they have any recommendations for employers to reach out to. SBATs are very rarely advertised; they often come about from just having conversations with different employers.

• Be Persistent: Stay positive; a SBAT can be difficult to secure, and the chance of landing a SBAT on your first attempt is very rare! Seek feedback and keep exploring different employers.

If you are able to find an employer who is keen to give you a head start in your career, you can then book an appointment with Mr Carroll, who will assist you and the employer with the sign-up process.

We are looking forward to welcoming the new cohort into the Work Ready Pathway in 2025, and it would be fantastic to see many of you start your career while completing your HSC.

Mr Richard Petherbridge
Work Ready Pathway Industry Teacher

Indigenous Education

Jingi Walla SJC indigenous Community

Welcome backkkk!!!

Before we get into what's happening in and around school, as we are living on the Tweed on Bundjalung Country, we as Aboriginal people want to recognise one of the six of the local Aboriginal seasons of Bundjalung we’re heading into starting November to the end of December.

Moogerahmbu - Storm Season

During this season the winds vary between North, North-East and South.  Many bird species begin hatching, and many plants and fruits begin to emerge.  Burubi (koalas) begin to breed.  Yugari (pippis), oysters and bush turkeys are fat and pigeons and doves are abundant.  Flathead begin to come into season Jubi (mudcrabs) and prawns are fat and plentiful, and depending on rainfall will continue to be abundant through the season.  You can find this exact information along with the rest of the five other seasons at the Minjungbal Museum and Cultural Centre or on the Tweed Byron LALC website.

We’ve finally reached the last term of 2024, and what a year it has been! We hope everyones had an amazing break and are now excited and ready to rip into Term 4.  As we head towards the end of the school year, Term 4 will be filled with important events, exams, and celebrations.  Let's finish strong and make the most of this exciting term.

Term 4 is a very significant time for our Year 12 students.  With HSC exams happening, we encourage all Year 12s to stay focused, maintain a balanced study routine, and please do not hesitate to reach out for support if needed.  We are proud of the effort and determination they have shown throughout not only the year but also throughout their time at school here at Joeys.

We would also like to congratulate our new Indigenous Student Representative Councillors (ISRC) for the 2025 season.  For Year 8, Elise Powell, Year 9 Dakina-Veila Penola, Year 10 Darcy Busbridge, unfortunately we never had any nominees for year 11, but for our Year 12 ISRC Leader we have Vrndi Gibbons.  Although it was a tough decision from whom to choose from all of our great nominees, Vrndi has shown why she'd be the best fit for the role by not only her involvement in many activities and events during her time at school but also outside of school in the community.  She is a wonderful role model for our younger students and we look forward to working with her come 2025.

We have a lot happening this term here at Joeys so be sure to keep checking the schools website and socials to know exactly what's going on.

If anyone has any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to reach out to myself or Lexe via email: bailee.nicholls@lism.catholic.edu.au and lexene.busbridge@lism.catholic.edu.au or contact the school on 07 5524 9002.

Bugalbeh - Thank you

Mr Bailee Nicholls and Mrs Lexe Busbridge
Indigenous Education Workers

Year 10 coastal walkers at D-Bar lookout on a beautiful sunny day

Leader of Learning - PDHPE

Year 9 Child Studies: Practical Learning at Goodstart Early Learning Centre

Our Year 9 Child Studies students are making meaningful connections and gaining hands-on experience through their weekly visits to Goodstart Early Learning Centre.  Each week, the students walk to the centre during lesson times and assist with various activities that support the children’s development, including reading, soothing children to sleep, painting, engaging in water play, and imaginative games.  The girls are assigned to specific rooms and are working with the same group of children each time, fostering continuity and strong bonds.  This partnership will continue until the end of term, and we extend a huge thank you to Jennifer Tranby-Hunter for her flexibility and dedication in facilitating this valuable opportunity for our students.

Ms Sara Reynolds
Acting Leader of Learning - PDHPE

Leader of Pedagogy

Study Skills Tips for October:  Parental Support During Assessment Periods

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 October's Study Skills Tips on Parental Support During Assessment Periods, (click on the link provided, or see the flyer below).

Study Skills Tips for November:  Overcoming Roadblocks to Study Success

Also included to today's newsletter, is a flyer for November's Study Skills Tips on  Overcoming Roadblocks to Study Success, (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

Learning Resource Centre

Promoting Reading Mystery Stories at St Joseph's College

Mystery stories have made a real comeback in St Joseph’s College Resource Centre.   Reading mysteries not only supports literacy goals and fosters a love of reading but also demonstrates the power of critical thinking skills.

At St Joseph's College, a week of engaging activities successfully promoted a love for mystery stories in the Resource Centre.  Each day offered unique challenges that sparked students' imaginations and fostered collaboration.

Monday: Detective Puzzles kicked off the week, with students tackling brain-teasing puzzles that required keen observation and deductive reasoning.  This activity sharpened their problem-solving skills while introducing them to the analytical mindset essential for aspiring detectives.

On Tuesday, the Ramshackle Rooms Code Cracking event transformed the Resource Centre into a mystery-filled environment.  Students worked in teams to decipher codes hidden throughout the space, enhancing their teamwork and communication while emphasizing the importance of detail in mystery narratives.

Wednesday featured the Ruby Maze Mystery, a treasure hunt that led students on a quest to solve riddles and uncover hidden treasures.  This immersive experience enriched their reading comprehension as they unravelled the story behind the maze.

Finally, Thursday and Friday: Hidden Colours invited students to explore symbolism and themes within mystery stories.  By discovering hidden colours in selected texts, they engaged creatively with the material, deepening their understanding of narrative techniques.

Through these fun activities, St Joseph's College successfully cultivated a vibrant reading culture, making mystery stories an exciting part of the students' literary journeys.

Mrs Mary Green
Teacher Librarian

SJC Sports Academy

Congratulations to Sports Academy students Declan B, Jarrah SW and Indy P who recently played as part of the SUNS Academy team at the QLD State 14's Development Carnival in Maroochydore.

This was a fantastic tournament full of great footy but also some great experiences and memories.  They played teams from Australia such as Darling Downs, a Diversity Team made up of Indigenous and Multicultural players as well as teams from PNG and Naru.  Jarrah was also awarded a major award at the SUNS presentation night, the ‘Achieve’ award for a player who demonstrates the highest standards in all aspects of the program.

Congratulations to Sports Academy students Fallon T and Eva L on their success with the NCAS Netball Association.  The 2024 Academy Netball Challenge, was once again held by NCAS in Port Macquarie.  The event brings together more than 400 athletes from the eleven Regional Academies of Sport across New South Wales and Sydney Netball Academy.

This event provides a platform for young netballers to showcase their skills at the highest level.

Eva was the captain of the team and the girls played in Division 1.  Fallon was honoured to receive the Niki Taylor memorial award at the presentation on the weekend for her dedication to her team and the sport.

Sports Academy Day Out 

Last Wednesday, 30 October, some of the Sports Academy students got to have a tour of the GC Titans training facility.  It was an awesome experience to see what an elite training facility looks like and get some inspiration for the students 2025 seasons.  Special thanks to our outstanding tour guide, GC Titans Chaplain Tommy Vieyra. 

Congratulations to all our students!

Mrs Nicola Tutt
Sports Academy Coordinator

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 provided in our last newsletter.)

Payments: Cash and EFTPOS Only
NO CHEQUES ACCEPTED

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

School Student Travel

School student travel information for parents and students

School Travel Passes

Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel. 

Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.

Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.

In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card.  If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.

Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator . It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home.  Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.

Terms of Use

Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.

This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only.  Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.

All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct.  The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers.  It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.

Community News

Tweed Shire Council presents

Rising Up - Movie Screening

Tweed Shire Council is thrilled to host a screening of 'Rising Up', a movie that shows that every action, no matter how small, can make a difference in our world. The event will also include a Q&A session with the movie's creator, Kal Glanznig.  Food and drink provided. 

Where:  Tweed River High School Sports Centre, 4 Heffron Street, Tweed Heads South. 

When:  Wednesday 6 November, 6-8 pm.

Cost:  $10 for adults, Students are free.

Bookings are essential.  Book your seat at https://brnw.ch/21wO8pk

About 'Rising Up'

24 year old Sutherland Shire Environmental Citizen of the Year 2023 & United Nations COP27 & COP28 delegate and speaker Kal Glanznig created the film Rising Up upon returning to Australia and wanting to uncover solutions to climate change and plastic pollution.

The film sees Kal travel to the frontlines of climate change and plastic pollution, travelling to Tuvalu, Samoa, Bali and across Australia to uncover the solutions of how we can all rise up and take action.

Studies have found that over three-quarters of young Australians aged 16-25yrs are concerned about climate change.  Rising Up is a journey uncovering the human stories of the greatest crises we face and finding solutions we can all do to roll up our sleeves and take action.

Interviewees include young environmental leaders such as:

• Sam Fricker, Australian Olympic Diver and founder of Sam’s Straws
• Sophia Skarparis, Plastic Activist
• Lottie Dalziel, founder BANISH and NSW Young Australian of Year 2023
• Grace Malie, Tuvaluan Youth Climate Activist and director of Rising Nations
• Okalani Mariner, Samoan UN Youth Climate Representative
• Stephen Rodan, Inventor CHARM Coral Robot

And business, community and political leaders such as:

• Zali Steggall, Federal Member for Warringah
• Michael Elias, Founder Upparel
• Pete Celingski, Founder Seabin
• Sam Bencheghib, Co-Founder Sungai Watch, Forbes 30 under 30

Tweed Shire Council is hosting the screening of Rising Up as well as a Q&A session with movie creator Kal, because it wants to hear the voices of young people and to find out about the types of local action young people would like to be part of in the Tweed. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to share ideas, ask questions and come up with ideas for action. 

Food and drink will be provided (included).  Cafe drinks available at attendee's own cost. 

Tweed Shire Council’s Draft Youth Outdoor Recreation Action Plan 2024-2034

This is Council’s 10-year plan for parks, skate, bike facilities and outdoor events and activities for young people.  This plan has been shaped by the valuable ideas contributed by youth, and Tweed Shire Council (TSC) are eager to have further feedback to ensure the draft plan meets the needs and aspirations of the local community.  This is a great opportunity for young people to voice their opinions and help shape future outdoor spaces and activities in the area. 

Tweed Shire Council wants to hear your thoughts on the draft action plan, and they have created a brief 5-minute survey that make sure they hear the community sentiment and are on the right track.  To complete the survey or for more information, visit Youth Outdoor Recreation Action Plan 2024-2034 | Your Say Tweed

Incentive for participation:  As a thank you from TSC, youth who complete the survey will gain FREE entry to a Splash, Movie ‘n’ DJ night at the Tweed Regional Aquatic Centre, Murwillumbah, on Friday, 22 November from 6-10pm (movie at 8pm).

How to participate: The draft plan will be on public exhibition from Wednesday 30 October, and feedback will be accepted until Wednesday, 27 November 2024.  Responses can be submitted online, via hardcopy at TSC pop-up events, or mailed to the Tweed Shire Council.

Hard copy versions of the action plan and community survey can be made available upon request.  If you have specific access needs and would like to participate in this consultation TSC will make every effort to assist.  Contact TSC by phone: 02 6670 2400 or by email: yoursay@tweed.nsw.gov.au.