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HSC 2023
Congratulations to our HSC class of 2023 who have completed their exams. They are a wonderful group of students, who can now focus on the Graduation Dinner next week and their life after school.
I also thank their teachers over their time at St John’s. There is a significant investment of self when teaching and generating the personal connections that allow us to teach well. I also thank Mrs Kelly for her commitment to this group.
YEAR 7 2024
We had a wonderful turn out for the Parent Information Evening last night and welcomed our newest members to the St John’s family. The Orientation and Peer Support day takes place today and I’m sure will be a great success as well.
TECHNOFERENCE
I came across this term while reading an online article. It basically talked about the interference that technology is causing in peoples lives and how we are dealing with our addictions to the technology we have. One of the major effects is that family connections are being damaged. So how do you improve your family time and interactions and still use technology effectively?
I often take my seven year old grandson to the local park. I constantly see other parents with their children and Mum or Dad on their phones while the kids are ‘playing’ or trying to get their parents involved in their play. ‘In a minute’ is often used as they check their messages. Does this sound familiar? Is it something that you have seen?
Ninety-eight percent of families have at least one internet connected device in the home. Parents use their device for an average 3.5 hours per day and children for 2.5. But this varies widely depending on the situation. Research says that 47% of families use devices while eating the evening meal.
Research also tells us that parents consumed by their devices have an effect on their own children. The children can become sad or withdrawn or can act out to get their parents attention. Haven’t we all been having a wonderful conversation with others when suddenly a phone rings or beeps. In a millisecond it is instantly checked, indicating it as a bigger priority than the conversation.
When I read this article I immediately took stock of the technoference in my own life. And I was a little disappointed. Although I am old enough to have spent my early life without the internet, I haven’t ‘grown up’ with a mobile phone. I do have a heavy reliance on it though. Most of my use is as a work tool, but I also use it for many other purposes that sometimes interfere with my family relationships. The versatility and range of needs it meets, makes the phone a very attractive item to have. Not only does it meet our needs for communication and entertainment it also occupies us.
To understand the importance of mobile technology and its good uses is important. It is such a necessary tool for so many people over a range of purposes. But to also understand the negative side of excessive use is equally important.
We use technology extensively at the school if it supports the students learning. Our teachers constantly use technology to develop resources for the classroom and assist their teaching.
Why don’t you do an audit of your technoference? Why not google the term and have a read? (Statistics from The Conversation).
WORKING BEE
We held our school working bee last Saturday 28 October and I would like to offer my sincerest thanks to all the students, family members and staff who gave up their Saturday morning to help complete various jobs around the school. There was a great turnout and we were able to accomplish many of the tasks that will improve the school environment for our students. We have a wonderful community here at St John's that takes extreme pride in our school which makes my job so rewarding.
Mr Wayne Marshall
Curriculum Coordinator
TERM 4
Wednesday 15 - Thursday 16 November: Year 9 Bushcraft Overnight Walk
REFLECTION AND PRAYER FOR PEACE
On Wednesday 25 October a group of students and staff gathered in the Chapel for a time of reflection and prayer for peace in our world - especially in Israel and Palestine.
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2023
A brief note to inform parents/guardians and students about the Sacramental Program
running this year at St John’s.
Any students that would like to be baptised into the Catholic faith or receive the Sacraments
of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion or Confirmation, are invited to participate in the
Sacramental program that will be running during the year and in school time.
Please see the attached letter that accompanies this newsletter for further information.
Mark Fuller
Sacramental Program Facilitator
NOWRA PARISH
Click here to access Nowra Parish
Click here to access Nowra Parish Facebook Page
MILTON PARISH
EVENTS
NAPS LongLook
St John's students Zac Tolhurst-Moon, Alex Duncan, Max Royals and Bill Shadforth have been attending the final stage of the Naval Aviation Prospects Scheme. The boys have been gaining great insights about this exciting role in defence at HMAS Albatross!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Nowra ADF Open Day - Saturday, November 4
Don't forget to register for our upcoming Nowra Open Day. It is a great opportunity to find out what a career in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is like.
You'll get to speak with current ADF personnel about a career in the Navy, Army or Air Force and experience a variety of Defence displays, including:
- Navy Helicopter - Static and flying displays
- Various Army vehicle displays
- Navy Clearence Diver equipment displays
- Air Force equipment displays
Nowra ADF Open Day
When: 10AM - 2PM, Saturday 4th November 2023
Where: Fleet Air Arm Museum, 489A Albatross Rd, Nowra Hill, NSW 2540
White Card Training - Last course for 2023
Year 9, 10 & 11 students are invited to enrol in the final White Card course for 2023. This is an essential qualification to safely work in the construction industry.
When? Friday, November 24
Where? SJE
Cost: $100
Please fill out the expression of interest posted on Google Classroom
Edge Workshop - Wednesday, November 29
This interactive Job Readiness Workshop will be run by Sharna Dawson, a highly acclaimed presenter.
Over the day you will learn about:
- What employers are looking for
- How to prepare and present yourself for an interview
- Resume preparation - how to stand out
- Meet industry professionals
- Social media and employment
- Pathways to various careers
There will also be an opportunity to go into break out rooms for hands on activities with professionals in hair, make up, clothing and skincare.
Limited to 50 students. Fill out the EOI on Google Classroom
Year 10 Work Experience 2024
December 4 - 8
In Term 4, Week 9, all Year 10 students will have the opportunity to participate in the work experience program. This is a valuable chance for students to delve deeper into a field of their interest, gaining a firsthand understanding of the roles within it. Such immersion can prove immensely beneficial as it allows individuals to discern whether their chosen industry aligns with their aspirations.
To facilitate this process, I encourage parents, guardians/carers, and students to refer to the Careers Google Classroom for guidance on how to approach potential employers. For your convenience, I have included all necessary documentation as attachments, streamlining the entire process.
To participate in this program, It is compulsory for all students to:
- Complete and upload the Work Readiness Certificate to the Careers Classroom
- Complete the White Card Training if they intend to work on a construction site
- Complete and submit the Working with Animals Guideline form
- Complete and submit the Student Work Placement document to the Careers Office
If you have any questions, contact Ms Arenas
YEAR 11 & 12 UPDATES
Congratulations to all Year 12 students - exams are done and now it’s time to take the next leap in life; setting yourself up for success in all your future endeavours!
So where will you be at Twenty-Two?
Through a range of programs we can help you:
- access safe and affordable accommodation
- get support for mental health, addictions, family breakdown and/or financial stress
- access appropriate services and advocate on your behalf
- explore options for medium and long-term housing
- discuss and explore pathways to employment
- develop a rental accommodation assistance plan
We operate in locations across Sydney’s Inner West, as well as the Mid North Coast of New South Wales and Coffs Harbour. As well as accommodation support, Wesley Mission has a range of support services in each region to help young people facing homelessness or other hardships
UAC
https://www.uac.edu.au/key-dates
Details of all semester 1, 2024 courses offered by UAC’s participating institutions are now available, so it's a perfect time to get started on your UAC application if you haven't already. Remember, if you apply before 29 September, you’ll avoid a significant increase in the application fee.
Your Key Dates:
- 23 November - Educational Access Scheme (EAS) application and documentation deadline for December Round 2 Offers
- 14 December - 2023 ATARs released
- 21 December - December Round 2 Offers released
https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/dreaming-of-uni
UAC Education Access Scheme (EAS) Closing November 23
Who can apply? To apply for EAS you must be able to demonstrate that, as a result of circumstances beyond your control or choosing, your studies were negatively affected during:
Year 11 and/or Year 12
Or
The period in which you gained the qualifications you are using to seek admission to an undergraduate course.
You must also be:
- a UAC undergraduate applicant
- an Australian citizen, a New Zealand citizen or a permanent resident of Australia (including a holder of an Australian permanent resident humanitarian visa)
For further details go to the Year 12 Careers Classroom or see Ms Arenas
UAC - EAS Application Closing date: November 23
UAC Career mapping: where to after school?
Many students are uncertain about their next steps after Year 12. But – as Phillip Williamson, Head Teacher Careers for the NSW Government’s Educational Pathways Program, writes – it’s vital to go easy on yourself, self-reflect and do your research. Here are Williamson’s practical tips for starting your career journey. The most important thing, he advises, is to focus on your direction, not your destination.
https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/career-mapping-where-to-after-school
What is the ATAR?
The ATAR is a rank, not a mark.
The Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) is a number between 0.00 and 99.95 that indicates a student’s position relative to all the students in their age group (ie all 16 to 20 year olds in NSW). So, an ATAR of 80.00 means that you are 20 per cent from the top of your age group (not your Year 12 group).
Universities use the ATAR to help them select students for their courses and admission to most tertiary courses is based on your selection rank (your ATAR + any applicable adjustments). Most universities also use other criteria when selecting students (eg a personal statement, a questionnaire, a portfolio of work, an audition, an interview or a test).
https://www.uac.edu.au/future-applicants/atar
ATAR Myths Busted
HSC students hear a lot of confusing messages about the ATAR, so UAC’s ATAR expert, Dr Helen Tam, has busted the top 5 myths.
https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/atar-myths-busted
The University of Sydney Inspired by Business Gadigal Scholarship
An undergraduate scholarship valued up to $40,000 scholarship to support talented Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students to study an undergraduate business degree.
https://www.sydney.edu.au/scholarships/a/inspired-business-gadigal-scholarship.html
ACU Veteran Family Entry Program
This entry pathway is available to any partner, spouse, or child over the age of 18 of current/previous serving ADF personnel. Applications are handled on a case-by-case basis though as a rule of thumb 2-years of service is required. If you are unsure of your eligibility, we encourage you to contact one of our Student Veteran Services team to discuss further.
https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/admission-pathways/i-have-completed-military-service
UNSW's New Bachelor of Education (Primary) (Honours)
Developed in partnership with New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA), students will experience what it's like to teach from their first term of study. With a unique focus on professional experience from the outset, they'll graduate ready to transform the lives of primary school children.
University of Sydney Pathways to Oral Health and Dentistry for Indigenous Students
Announcing the New $10,000 UNSW Advantage Award
For 2024, we’re introducing the $10,000 UNSW Advantage Award to support all students from low-socioeconomic areas as they transition to UNSW.
If you live in an eligible low-socioeconomic area, receive an offer from UNSW and enrol for Term 1 2024, you will be eligible to receive the $10,000 UNSW Advantage Award to support you in your first year of studies. Low-socioeconomic areas are based on IRSAD and IEO indexes of SEIFA criteria.
Additionally, for 2024, all students who attend a Gateway school, apply through the Gateway Admission Pathway and enrol at UNSW will receive a $1,000 one-off payment to make the transition to uni easier, meaning you could be eligible for a total of an $11,000 award to make the most of your studies.
Western Sydney University Equity Scholarship
Closes 8 December Equity scholarships recognise that all people have different needs and that some groups experience disadvantages that impact on their educational progress. WSU Equity Scholarships support a wide variety of students who experience financial hardship and other educational disadvantages.
SCU Scholarship Applications Now Open
All students are welcome to apply for a scholarship and the process is simple.
Most undergraduate domestic applicants will only need to apply online once and will be considered for all donor-funded scholarships that they are eligible for. Some of our scholarships don’t require an application as they are awarded based on merit, or you will automatically be considered when you apply to study at Southern Cross University.
How to apply may depend on the scholarship you are applying. Use the below as a guide and be sure to check your eligibility and the application processes listed on each scholarship.
https://www.scu.edu.au/scholarships/applying-for-a-scholarship/
UNSW Scholarships Open for Domestic Students
Year 12 students can start their scholarship applications now by registering for a UNSW Scholarships account here using their UAC Application number. Scholarships on offer include:
- 2024 General Merit Undergraduate Scholarships for Commencing Students
- Scientia Scholarship
- Academic Achievement Award (AAA)
- Gail Kelly Young Women Leaders Scholarship
- UNSW Indigenous General Merit Scholarship for Undergraduate Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW Women in Engineering Scholarship Program for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW Engineering Rural Scholarships Program for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW Minerals and Energy Resources Engineering Scholarships for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- School of Chemical Engineering High Achiever Award
- School of Computer Science & Engineering Scholarships for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW Business School Merit Scholarships Program for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- John Niland Scholarship
- UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture Undergraduate Scholarships for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW Science Undergraduate Scholarships for Students Commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW School Of Mathematics & Statistics Undergraduate Scholarships for students commencing Term 1, 2024
- UNSW Law & Justice Undergraduate Criminology and Criminal Justice Excellence Award
- UNSW Sport Scholarships- Term 1, 2024
- Equity Scholarships
https://www.uow.edu.au/study/scholarships/domestic/vc-leadership-scholarship/
2023 Tertiary Open Days
To find up-to-date information on Tertiary Open Days, go to the Year 12 Careers Google Classroom or check the SJE Careers Website.
TAFE
Just out!
Dual Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystems & Marine Habitat Conservation and Restoration
To find out more go to:
https://resources.study-id.com/en-au/dualcerificateconservation
Supporting You Every Step of the Way with TAFE NSW
Get the help you need to succeed
The TAFE NSW Counselling and Career Development Service is free and confidential* and is designed to help you succeed in your studies at TAFE NSW, as well as in your chosen career.
Prospective TAFE NSW students are able to access the service to assist with course choice decisions and career planning.
Students enrolled with TAFE NSW are able to access a range of services to assist in career development and personal support.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/counselling-career-development-services
TAFE NSW Sydney Wine Academy - The Very Best in Wine Education and Training
Proudly partnering with some of the leading wine education providers in the world, the TAFE NSW Sydney Wine Academy offers the very best in wine education and training.
Our team of highly respected industry experts include wine makers, authors, show judges and sommeliers. They draw on the skills and knowledge gleaned from years in the industry, both here and internationally, to take your tasting skills and wine knowledge to the next level.
Whether you’re currently in the industry and need to stay up-to-date on vital trends, or just want to impress at your next dinner party, an in-depth course at the TAFE NSW Sydney Wine Academy utilises the latest resources and study materials to demystify the world of fine wine.
TAFE NSW Sydney Wine Academy is located at 250 Blaxland Road Ryde NSW 2112. Phone: 02 7921 2399
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/sydney-wine-academy
TAFE - I Am Finishing School This Year Info Page
Whatever you're interested in, TAFE NSW has a pathway to get you there.
With hundreds of courses to choose from, including degrees, we can help you find your passion.
Find answers to questions like:
- When do enrolment periods close?
- What are the semester and term dates?
- Do you offer payment plans?
- What is a fee concession and exemption and who is eligible?
- Can I study a degree at TAFE?
- What course will get me into university?
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/open-day/i-am-finishing-school-this-year
TAFE NSW Degrees and Undergrad Certificates
You don't need an ATAR to study a degree with TAFE NSW, but you will graduate with a qualification that will change your future.
Study a Bachelor degree, post graduate or higher education qualification with TAFE NSW, and graduate with strong theoretical knowledge, practical experience and industry connections that will give you a head start on your career.
Plus if you have previously completed a higher education or vocational diploma or certificate qualification, you may be eligible for credit transfer or recognition of prior learning (RPL) towards your degree, which means you could graduate sooner. We also offer short courses comprising one or two subjects designed to meet industry requirements. Check out our short courses!
We also offer Undergraduate Certificates. Undergraduate Certificates are short courses requiring completion of just four subjects. They are designed to provide you with the professional skills and knowledge to move into new employment opportunities. If you decide to continue your studies, you will get recognition for the four subjects completed.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/degrees
TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses help students build practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, and count toward school outcomes, with some courses contributing towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
TAFE NSW TVET Guide 2024
NSW Police Force - Eligibility Quiz
Take the quiz to see if you may be eligible to commence an application to the NSW Police Force. ‘Aquatic Rescue Sequence’ certification: Applicants are required to provide certification of successful completion of the Aquatic Rescue Sequence. First Aid certification: Applicants are required to supply certification of completion of an approved ‘Apply First Aid’ course with at least 12 months currency remaining on certification. Typing certificate. Applicants are required to supply a recognized certificate of typing proficiency equivalent or greater than 25 words per minute at 98 percent accuracy.
GAP YEAR Opportunity
As industry leaders and a respected partner of prominent schools, we provide overseas Gap Year opportunities for young people across the world. Since embarking on our own Gap Year, we can personally relate to the experiences had by our participants and provide ongoing support every step of the way with full-time staff located in Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. We believe the support we offer and how we place participants based on their skills and preferences are just some of the reasons why we are leaders in the Gap Year field. Over the years we have established solid relationships with over 200 prominent schools globally and several hundred placements annually. Let us guide you through the whole process so you can begin the best year of your life.
CCUSA CAMP COUNSELOR 2024 APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
Summer camps in the USA are a tradition dating back more than 100 years. Every year almost 300 New South Wales participants head to the USA between June and August to work as camp counselors.
Check out Careers Google Classroom for more information.
PRIVATE COLLEGES
Real Estate Institute of NSW - Certificate of Registration Course
A course developed to meet NSW Fair Trading requirements for you to become an assistant agent. This course is the stepping stone to your future real estate career. The course will equip you with the skills and knowledge to be work ready. You can also continue your studies and complete the full Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice to become a fully Licenced Real Estate Agent.
https://www.reinsw.com.au/Web/Courses/Course-Display.aspx?EventKey=VETQ02OLIN
Sydney Flight College Applications Now Open
Apply now for November Intake or for 2024 Intake
Year 12 Students interested in becoming a pilot? Double Diploma & Commercial Pilot licenceAVI50222 Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilots Licence - Aeroplane) & AVI50519 Diploma of Aviation (Multi Engine Instrument Rating). The Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) is the minimum requirement to earn a living as a pilot in Australia. You'll start your training learning the fundamentals of flight in single engine aeroplanes such as the Piper Warrior, before progressing towards larger and more complex aircraft culminating in your CPL flight test being performed in the legendary Cessna 182T Skylane. We'll arm you with all the non-technical and technical skills required to work in the industry as a professional pilot. No previous knowledge is required!
https://www.sfcaero.com.au/double-diploma-of-aviation
APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS
Finding an Apprenticeship Searching and applying for an Australian Apprenticeship is very much like hunting for any job. An employer has to create a vacancy and decide to use Australian Apprenticeships as a way to employ and train their staff. The following steps will explain the process to get an Australian Apprenticeship from the preparation stage, to the time you begin your training
Aged Care Traineeship Vacancy
This is a great local opportunity if you are interested in aged care.
Automotive Apprenticeships - Vacancies
The automotive industry has changed substantially through the last decade to become a respected and financially secure career path. Any student that enjoys problem solving and working with their hands will thrive in automotive and has the opportunity to be a part of transformative change we haven't seen since vehicles replaced the horse and cart.
Do you aspire to be a builder?
Register your interest for the course starting 27 November Want to be a carpenter? This is your best first step. Master Builders will help prepare you to become the best 1st-year carpentry apprentice. This 3-week entry level training program provides an introduction into both the industry and a carpentry trade prior to commencing an apprenticeship.
Do you aspire to become a brickie?
Offer you the opportunity to study and earn an income while undertaking a qualification. It gives you the chance to learn new skills while getting paid. It can be done full-time or while you are at school through a School Based Apprenticeship. You can use your qualification to work anywhere in Australia and around the world.
We are seeking to employ a trainee in medical administration and wondered if you may have any school leavers who could be interested and suited to this position.
The position would most likely be a permanent 4 days/week (with a view to occasionally covering a 5th day or Saturday morning if required).
They would be employed as a permanent, and we would organise them and support to study the following:
BSB30120 Certificate III in Business (Medical Administration)
The position will be based across our 2 practices, in Nowra and Bomaderry.
Starting date would be early December and payment will be above award rates and complying with all Fair Work requirements.
It is our hope to find a person who is looking for a long term career in Medical Administration, there are all sorts of possibilities for extra responsibilities and leadership for the right person. Being IT savvy is essential, as is reliability, responsibility, motivation, maturity and common sense.
This is a welcoming friendly workplace who must operate as a team to provide the best medical care for our patients and workplace for our staff, so being a team player is a must.
The job is complex and an ability to comply with privacy laws, policies and procedures and learn new skills in a fast and ever changing environment is essential.
We look forward to hearing from any potential candidates for this position, please have them send their CV and a short note introducing themselves to administration@junctionmedical.com.au
Gail Lloyd
Practice Manager
Volvo Apprenticeship Program
The Volvo Apprenticeship Program is designed to train and develop apprentices to keep pace with advancing technology and high levels of customer service. It spans four years, with three years as block release at the Volvo Training Centre, and consists of a variety of workplace and off-the-job training. Your career will be given full support to help you successfully complete the Program. Few businesses can offer their employees such diversity, challenges, excellent training and career development prospects. Every apprentice is encouraged to demonstrate initiative and contribute his or her own ideas for improving customer service and developing the business. But this approach requires a special type of person. You must have the ambition to contribute and succeed in a fast-paced, results oriented environment and strive to be the best in everything you do.
Go to: Volvo Link for further information.
Transport for NSW Apprenticeships and Traineeships
Transport for NSW currently have a number of Apprenticeship and Traineeships open for 2024 in both metro and regional areas. Currently on offer are:
- Business Traineeships
- Bridge Construction Apprenticeship
- Heavy Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship
- Project Management Traineeships
- Electrical Apprenticeship
- Civil Construction Apprenticeship
- Painting and Blasting Traineeship
A number of trainee roles are also available
https://jobs.transport.nsw.gov.au/go/Train-Crew-and-Customer-Service-Jobs/7831310/
A & D Tree Services - Trainee Arborist positions available
If you are interested in a career in Arboriculture with a leading employer in the area, please feel free to call A &n D Services.
Requirements:
- Green P’s ( or will get them within 6 months)
- White Card
- Willing to get a Truck Licence asap.
Contact:
Trudi Langford
A&D Tree Services Pty Limited
Phone: 4423 6555
1 Central Avenue, South Nowra NSW 2541
CSS Engineering PTY LTD - Apprenticeship
CSS Engineering Pty Ltd is a metal machining workshop in South Nowra and they are seeking a full-time apprentice.
The job will involve:
- Cutting and preparing material for machining
- Using a variety of workshop machines, such as manual and CNC lathes and mills, grinders, guillotines and bandsaws
- TAFE course; Cert III Engineering-Mechanical Trade (MEM302205)
Sound knowledge of Mathematics is required to fulfill this role.
Contact Christina on:
Ph: 4421 2155
Email: christina@cssengineering.com.au
Superior Cabinets South Coast is seeking a keen, hardworking apprentice. If you enjoy woodwork, this might be perfect for you.
Contact Anthony on: 0412 179 552
Handy link for a range of job opportunities: Jobs Transport NSW
JOB VANCANCIES !
If you are looking for kitchen or front of house work, contact the Southern Hotel Berry.
They have jobs available in front of house and kitchen- this is kitchen hands and learning cold sections in the kitchen.
Please contact Bridie on:
0479 016 153
Council Jobs!
Local Government NSW offers hundreds of jobs and diverse career paths. Across professional, administrative, trade and outdoor roles. Learn more about the type of work, qualifications required and the jobs available now in over 100 councils across NSW & others interstate
https://www.careersatcouncil.com.au/
At Woolworths Group, we create better experiences together for a better tomorrow. Our diverse group of retail businesses are some of Australia's most recognised and trusted brands, and our team are at the heart of everything we do.
Coffee’Liscious in Nowra is looking for Front-of-House members for weekend work - casual positions.
Front-of-House tasks include:
- taking orders
- cleaning dishes
- making cold drinks
- running food
No previous experience needed - training on-site.
Hand physical resume in Coffee'liscious or email Emma at - 2018ejmi@gmail.com
LEADERSHIP DAY
On Tuesday the 24th of October, year 9 had their leadership day. Throughout the day we moved from classroom to classroom in K block, participating in various activities in small groups.
Before we split up into our groups, we had a competition as a year 9 group. We were separated into 3 colour houses on each side of the gym and we had to work together to keep the gym ball in the air for the longest. Benedict, Chisholm and McCabe came out victorious against MacKillop, Polding and Purcell.
Drumming activity - In the chapel with Mr Garner, we engaged in playing instruments together. We played the drums, bongos, maracas, and other percussion instruments. This activity was lots of fun as it gave everyone an opportunity to ‘let loose’ and get involved without fear of embarrassment or judgement.
Failure activities - ‘Failure activities’ was held by Mr Higgins. The theme of this activity was failure and how we can overcome it. It highlighted the importance of trying again, keeping up perseverance and to learn from the mistakes we make.
Mindful or Mind full - This activity was held by Miss Brady. This activity was to help us gain information and tools about mental health and anxieties and how we can calm ourselves down when we experience these things.
Brain teasers - The brain teasers were provided by Mr Vaughan. We were given the objective to recreate a sculpture using paddle pop sticks with a partner but the challenge was that our partner had to describe the sculpture without showing the builder the photo. We also played a round of scattergories with our partner to end the activity off.
Mini sports - This activity was led by Miss Gray. We headed to the gym and played Red Robin. We competed against our group in 4 teams, using different tactics. Most opted for running into opposing teams areas while others tried befriending other teams to trade their cones with each other.
The leader I want to be - With Miss Swan in this activity we drew ourselves and wrote our qualities that we have now, the leader we are now. She then asked us to turn the page over and draw ourselves with the qualities we would like to have, the leader we want to be.
After recess we all came back together as a cohort and we were told we had to dress up two members of our groups in newspaper clothing for our parade. We went back to our groups and dressed up our prince and princesses in their newspaper attire and held a catwalk for our principal Mr Marshall. We cheered on our pairs for each group, seeing all the unique designs people chose for their respective prince and princesses. They walked individually and then all together in their pairs. Mr Marshall then chose his winning pair, Tobias Kinch and Ashlynn Crangle. We cheered and then went back to our groups to debrief.
Overall it was such a fun and inclusive day with lots of lessons learnt, from learning how to calm yourself down, how to get back up after you fail, to engaging your brain and working together with your peers. We had lots of fun and would like to thank all the teachers for their inclusive ideas and making the day heaps informative and enjoyable.
Miriam Hutchison (Year 9)
BUSHCRAFT - OVERNIGHT WALK
Year 9 Coordinator
Term Four has gotten off to a busy start for our Year 10 students as they head towards their final weeks of schooling before stepping into the senior preliminary course.
CHILD STUDIES
This term Year 10 Child Studies classes have been exploring the topic of 'Health and Safety in Childhood'. They have completed various research tasks on how to prevent and treat common childhood illnesses and accidents, and responded to common childhood first aid scenarios, such as choking. In this week's lesson, students engaged in a practical task, learning the correct techniques to perform CPR on infants, young children and young adults, as well as how to perform first aid in a choking situation. Well done to our Child Studies students on their engagement throughout this unit.
DRAMA
Year 10 Drama students have been challenging themselves creatively through their involvement in the E.A.T theater taking on roles not only as performers, but in costume, set and lighting design as well as working backstage. Congratulations to these students and the CAPA team.
(photos taken after school at rehearsals)
PDHPE
As Year 10 come to the end of their time participating in practical PDHPE, Mrs Kinna's and Mrs Isemonger's classes turned back time and re-visited childhood games such as hopscotch, skipping, hula hoops and Finska. Much fun was had by all!"
WORK EXPERIENCE
Work experience is fast approaching and November 6th is the cut off date to have their completed paperwork signed by their employer and returned to school. If students or parents have any questions please contact the school.
SUBJECT SELECTION - 2024
Finally subjects for 2024 have been assigned to the students. Students should be discussing their selections at home and returning their signed form to their PALS teachers by Friday 3rd of November.
Mr Nick Garner
Year 10 Coordinator
YEAR 7 GEOGRAPHY
Upcoming dates
Year 7 as part of their learning for landscapes and landforms will have a day of fieldwork at Kiama. We will explore and learn about the different coastal landforms at the blowhole, surf beach and the rock formations. Kiama's Blowhole is the largest in the world, the 2.5m opening in the rock face has had its plumes of water recorded at heights of over 30 metres.
Due to the size of the year group, classes will attend the excursion over two days Monday Nov 27th classes- H, M, J and Tuesday Nov 28th classes K, L, I, N
Please complete the permission note on compass.
YEAR 8 HISTORY
Ms Arenas 8HGJ Long Lunch
To celebrate the extraordinary artefacts year 8 students created from their research on mediaeval history, the class had a long lunch. Students bought in food they cooked from mediaeval recipes. Some of the artefacts included clothes, musical instruments, implements such as weapons or spoons, farming equipment and more.
Student comments from 8HGJ
When we had a mediaeval feast in class. Everyone made something and it was just a nice, chill time. (Frankie O'Neill)
The bread I baked for our end of term feast was so dry and dense that when Hunter ate two slices of it he nearly perished (Ethan Luke)
The mediaeval assessment task was a great learning experience because we were able to get creative and make something that we found interesting for the assessment. (Gianna Gonzaga)
My favourite learning task was our history assessment about mediaeval Europe and making a sword (Julian Knott)
YEAR 10 COMMERCE
Last term students looked at topics related to Towards Independence, such as budgeting, renting, purchasing a car, cooking on a budget. Students were highly engaged and produced some outstanding evidence of learning which went towards a portfolio collection.
Unit reflections
It was a really good unit and I learnt a lot, possibly the best unit that we’ve ever done in Commerce. A fun activity was finding a place to rent that meets a specific criteria for the scenario family. (Kate McIIvaney)
I liked the overall unit. The only thing I did not enjoy was the debating activity and I believe it was more the being forced into a team rather than the activity itself. I really enjoyed the radio activity (giving advice to young people) as it was a lot more self-directed and you could work with the people you worked well with. (Deeya Shrestha)
My brochure was to the point and precise, and the car I found is an Australian favourite that is reliable and I made a very nutritious meal and was relatively cheap considering inflation at the moment. (Mitchell Exton)
Nutritious budget meals cooked by students included:
Homemade Pizza (Hugo), Salmon,broccolini and rice (Joaquin), Thai Chicken Curry (Max), Pasta Bake (Steffi) and Bruschetta (Megan)
YEAR 11 ABORIGINAL STUDIES
Students have started their major projects- this is 40% of the Aboriginal Studies course for the HSC, students pick a topic of interest and gather primary and secondary data. Aboriginal Community members are consulted throughout the process of the major project. Any community members who wish to discuss the projects listed below or would like to be part of the consultation process are invited to contact Ms Sarah Blades (HSIE coordinator) or Gooroon. The topics we have this year for our major project are
- Discovering Aboriginal knowledge of our waterways (focus on the Shoalhaven and Hawkesbury (Deerubbin) Rivers
- The importance of Aboriginal cultural healing programs
- The impact of the revitalisation of language in the community
- How Aboriginal foods are making their way into our kitchens
- The importance of Aboriginal sporting role models
- How Aboriginal servicemen are remembered
On Thursday the 2nd November, the class participated in a full day zoom workshop facilitated by The University of Sydney , Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS). This day included a session by the Kinchela Boys Home. “Kinchela Aboriginal Boys Training Home was a ‘home’ run by the NSW Government for almost 50 years from 1924 – 1970 to house Aboriginal boys forcibly removed from their families. It's a place of deep importance for survivors, their families and communities.” ((Kinchelaboyshome.org.au, 2023)
Mrs Sarah Blades
HSIE Coordinator
BAKE SALE
St John's Bake Sale was held on Wednesday 25 October. Baked goods were supplied by Year 11 House Captain's, Year 10 Youth Ministry Leaders and students who attended the Darwin Immersion Trip.
$647 was raised from the bake sale for Catholic Mission to be used to fund initiatives for the Aboriginal Community in Darwin. Thank you to everyone who purchased some yummy goodies in support of this worthy cause.
SJE AG FARM - NEW STEERS
AG FARM NEW EDITIONS
On Monday 22 October St John's Ag Farm welcomed the arrival of three new editions. Mother goat, Storm gave birth to three adorable new kids who the students have named Puddles, Rain and Hurricane.
Today during orientation our 2024 Year 7 students got the chance to meet our new editions including another 3 new arrival's that were only born this week.
ILLAWARRA SOUTH COAST DRAGON'S REPRESENTATIVE'S - ST JOHN'S STUDENTS
Congratulations to the following St John's students who have been selected to represent the Illawarra South Coast Dragons.
2023 AFL GIRLS YR'S 7 - 9 DIOCESAN CHAMPIONSHIP'S
On Friday the 13th of October the 7-9 Girls AFL team headed up to Macquarie Fields to compete in the Diocesan AFL competition. We started the day against John Therry, knowing we had to do Mr Marshall proud we came out strong with a 46-0 win for our first game of the day. The girls were on a roll from there with a 32-6 win to St Joseph’s, 17-0 win to St Patrick’s and a 16-6 win against Holy Spirit. This meant the team placed 1st in our pool.
Our semi final was against a strong Mt Carmel side. With Amelia Mansfield in the ruck and our two weapons in the middle- Hannah Phillips and Aurora Boatswain we were able to win the centre and get the ball down to our forward line consistently. Natarsha Mandavy and Anya Ellerington were our top goal kickers of the day, and we came out on top against Mt Carmel in the semi final 31-7. Our undefeated streak of 5 from 5 unfortunately came to an end when we faced St Mary’s in the grand final with the girls going down by only 2 points.
We would like to thank Mrs Clarke and Mr Lopez for coaching and taking us on the day and look forward to more AFL opportunities in the future.
OPEN BOYS CRICKET - DOWNIE CUP ROUND 1
On Monday our open boys cricket team faced Trinity Catholic College from Goulburn in the opening round of the Downie Cup. The boys bowled first, and with some impressive bowling by Daniel Hilton-Cummins, who bowled out four or the trinity players, as well as Elijah Guyatt and Hayden Fuller, who claimed three wickets each, the boys managed to keep Trinity to a score of 134 runs. The boys began the chase and an impressive partnership between Daniel Hylton-Cummins and Elijah Guyatt, who both finished not out, ensured we reached this target comfortably. We only dropped three wickets in the game. These boys were great ambassadors for St John’s and played amazing as a team. I am looking forward to our next match. Thanks to Mr Fuller for his assistance, expertise and for scoring on the day.
2023 AFL JUNIOR BOYS SCHOOL CUP FINAL
Last Wednesday our 7-9 Boys AFL team competed in the Junior Schools Cup State Final. After winning the last two competitions we travelled up to the Central Coast to compete with the top 8 teams in the state. With many changes to the team coming up to the day, the boys were still determined to give it their all. We faced some very well drilled sides who play and train together all year around, and with our team of only a few AFL players, we displayed our school spirit and teamwork throughout the entire day. 8th in the state is a massive achievement.
We would like to express how proud we are of this team and their resilience. As a coach, all you can ask for is for your team to do the best they can and we couldn't have asked any more of the boys. We would also like to say a massive thank you to Max Marshall and Harry Frew for the motivation from the sideline and keeping the boys hydrated throughout the day, and also the boys who stepped up to fill in. With many players receiving votes, our coaches award should go to the entire backline who did not stop all day but we would like to give a special mention to Noah Walker, Archie Soper and Jett Glennan whose grit and perseverance continued to uplift the team.
Mr Leishman and Mrs Clarke
JUNIOR GIRLS
Please see below the 2023 Flyer to promote NSWCCC individual pathways and the process for registering through the CSNSW Sport website for students and parents information.
Please feel free to contact our school with any questions.
Once you have nominated, Compass will provide you and your team with permission notes to complete. If team members fail to return these notes in a timely manner, your team's entry may be withdrawn.
SCHOOL UNIFORM DONATIONS
Ms Angelina Ramognini
Gooroon Coordinator
WORKING BEE - 28TH OCTOBER 2023
YEAR 7 2024 ORIENTATION - LOWES VOUCHERS
Well done to the following students:
If you did not get your winning voucher on the night please collect it from the school office.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - 18TH MARCH 2024
A meeting for general discussions will be held on completion of the AGM. There will be more information in the new year regarding the roles and positions available on St John’s P&F Committee. Save the date, we hope to see you there!
CANTEEN MENU
TERM 4
We are currently organising our canteen volunteer roster for Term 4 if you are able to assist on any days that have spaces on the roster please contact the school office on 4423 1666 or email the school on info@sjedow.catholic.edu.au
Alternatively fill in the form on the school website under canteen in the Parent Info section.
BELOW IS THE CANTEEN ROSTER FOR TERM 4
Opportunity for families to apply for free NBN services
To boost education opportunities and narrow the digital divide, the Australian Government, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, is working with NBN Co to provide up to 30,000 families with no internet at home free NBN for 12 months.
The process for families to apply for the initiative is as follows:
- Contact the National Referral Centre on 1800 954 610 (10 am - 6 pm AEDT Monday to Friday)
- The National Referral will determine the family's eligibility
- Once eligibility has been determined they will issue the family with a voucher for 12 months of free NBN Internet to be used with a carrier of choice
- More information can be found at https://www.anglicarevic.
org.au/student-internet/
To be eligible, a family must:
- Have a child living at home enrolled in an Australian school
- Have no active broadband service over the NBN network
- Live in a premise where they can access a standard NBN service
- Not have had an active NBN service during the previous 14 days.
POSITION VACANT - CLEANER
Keeping in touch with the Catholic Primary Schools within the Shoalhaven District.
Please select below links to the Shoalhaven Catholic Primary Schools websites.
