Filter Content
- PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
- PASTORAL CARE
- FROM THE CURRICULUM OFFICE
- NEWS FROM THE FINANCE OFFICE
- NEWS FROM THE OFFICE
- TERM 1 2020 DATES TO REMEMBER -
- YEAR 11 NEWS
- YEAR 12 NEWS
- REPRESENTATIVE SPORT
- NEWS FROM THE PDHPE DEPARTMENT
- CAREERS NEWS
- P&F NEWS
- NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY
- CANTEEN NEWS
- GOOROON NEWS
- ASSORTED NEWS
- NEWS FROM RELIGIOUS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
- A message from Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong for Catholic Schools Week 2020
- SHOALHAVEN COMMUNITY OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
- COMMUNITY NOTICES
OPEN NIGHT
It was described as a carnival atmosphere and what else would you expect when the school showcases its learning opportunities and its young people. On Wednesday night, our annual Open Night was held to showcase the school and initiate the enrolment period for Year 7, 2021.
It was a wonderful evening, highlighting what a great school we have. A huge thank you to all the staff who organised such engaging activities and also to the large number of students who contributed to the night through demonstrations in classrooms and as tour guides.
The enrolment applications are due by Monday 6 April 2020, please make sure you have noted this date as judging by the huge amount of interest in the school on Monday night, we will once again have a lots of interest for Year 7, 2021.
COMMUNITY
All our parents, carers and friends are an amazing support to our school and have assisted us in so many ways. From helping at the swimming carnival, running the working bee and assisting at camp or in the canteen, to answering our calls for assistance, your presence is important to us. And further to this it is very important for your child to see you engaged with the school. It increases their belonging and helps them engage with their learning in a positive manner.
We hope you can join us by coming along and helping out at any future opportunities for parent and friend engagements. These may include the athletics carnival, helping on canteen, assisting with exam support and supervision and supporting sporting teams or excursions as required.
Volunteering does help you become more connected to our school community.
Attending the Parents and Friends Committee meetings is also a wonderful way to connect to the school. Many parents have used this opportunity attending most meetings as their child moves from Year 7 to Year 12. They have engaged in the activities, been informed by the presentations and enjoyed getting to know other families at St John’s.
Congratulations to our new Parent and Friends committee, such a wonderful group of people who are so willing to support us by sharing their talents and time.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW A CLIP OF OUR WORKING BEE
THANK YOU DR ANTONIO
We wish to thank Dr Antonio for his wonderful donation to our school each year, providing a beautiful chess set and gift voucher to be awarded to a Top performing Chess participant at the end of the year.
In 2019 Dr Antonio's gift was awarded to Nicholas Roberts.
Mrs. Sandra Hogan
Principal
Thank you to all our parents and carers who have worked with us to bring about the change in traffic flow at the front of the school. The safety of all is paramount in any traffic situation. I am grateful for the feedback from parents who are concerned with the changes, but I can assure you that we have supervised and monitored this change and we are confident that the change has been successful with parents and carers responding well.
I would still suggest that students who are able to walk or catch their bus could take the opportunity to do so. It is important to develop a sense of independence in our young people. Of course families have considered reasons for pick up their children, but I am just suggesting that less students being picked up in cars would contribute to easing traffic congestion.
Have a great week!
Mrs. Leonie Pearce
YEAR 9 YOUTH AWARE OF MENTAL HEALTH
St John’s have been collaborating with the Catholic Education Office, Diocese of Wollongong and The Black Dog Institute to support a fantastic school-based peer support and mental health initiative called Youth Aware of Mental Health (YAM) for our Year 9 students. Through lectures, group discussions and role-play sessions, YAM spans five sessions over a 3 week period and aims to promote increased knowledge and awareness about mental health, developing problem-solving skills and emotional intelligence as well as connecting youth to local health services.
The six central themes explored within the YAM program include:
- What is mental health?
- Self-help advice
- Stress and crisis
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Helping a friend in need
- Who can I ask for advice?
This term, Year 9 students will engage with YAM in Weeks 8 (17 March), 9 (24 March) and 10 (31 March).
QUESTION, PERSUADE, REFER TRAINING (QPR)
In order to support this initiative staff have completed evidence-based online training; Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) in order to further develop:
- knowledge and skills to identify warning signs that someone may be suicidal
- confidence to talk to that person about suicidal thoughts
- awareness and ability to refer to available supports.
We also strongly encourage parents and carers to engage with the training taking approximately 60 minutes to complete online for the cost of $10 for a license which remains active for 3 years. You can access the training via the Illawarra Shoalhaven Suicide Prevention Collaborative website (www.suicidepreventioncollaborative.org.au/QPR).
If you require any further information on Youth Aware of Mental Health program or QPR, please don’t hesitate to contact the collaborative on 1300 069 002 or Mr James Eirth at our school on 4423 1666.
Mr. James Eirth
Pastoral Care Coordinator
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progressive reporting for Year 7 to 11 students occurs in Week 7 of each semester. This report reflects our Learning Dispositions of Challenge (the learner works hard, is persistent and engages with their learning) and Ownership (meets deadlines, is prepared and organised). These reports should promote discussion with your child prior to Parent Teacher Interviews.
Teacher will be reporting on:
Contributes respectfully and responsibly to the learning environment.
A student is seen to contribute to the learning environment in a respectful and responsible manner by:
- Listening to teacher directions/instructions, listening to the ideas and opinions of peers and showing respect and courtesy to other, seeks assistance in an appropriate manner when necessary
- Working cooperatively in lessons: task focused, supportive of peers, actively engaged in the lesson and displaying a positive approach to learning, completing work to a (personal) high standard
- Showing care for the learning environment
- Following school and classroom routines
Demonstrates ownership of learning by being organised and meeting deadlines.
A student demonstrates ownership of learning by:
- Being punctual to class
- Having all equipment required for each subject
- Completing assigned homework by due date
- Completing assessment tasks by due date to the best of their ability
- Being proactive in completing any missed work due to absences
- Effectively using the school diary eg record homework tasks, reminders and goals.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE OOAAA NOMINATIONS
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MATHS PATHWAY 200 CLUB NOMINEES
SCHOOL FEE AGREEMENTS 2020
Please note, it is essential for all families to complete and return the School Fee Agreement Form regardless of how you pay your fees. This is a mandatory form that MUST be completed. It is important that the form is returned in Term 1. Please select the link below to access the form or alternatively access via our school website link under the 'parent info/school fees' tab. https://www.sjedow.catholic.edu.au/school-fees
SCHOOL BUS TRAVEL
There are a number of 2020 bus passes which have not yet been collected by students from the office. Please send your student to the school office as soon as possible if they have not received their bus pass. Parents are reminded that the School Free Travel is only valid from home to school as per the conditions on the back of the pass. Fares will be charged for all other journeys.
If you are yet to apply for a bus pass or your details have changed eg: address, please go to www.transportnsw.info/school-students. Alternatively you can call the transport info line on 131 500.
If you have any questions in regards to the correct school bus for your child to catch, please contact the appropriate company:
- Kennedy’s Bus Service: Ph: 4421 7596
- Nowra Coaches (Premier): Ph: 4423 5244
- Shoal Bus: Ph: 4423 2122
- Stuart’s Coaches: Ph: 4421 0332
LATEST INFORMATION ON CORONAVIRUS
As you are aware there are regular updates on Coronavirus and it is important to follow the directions of health experts.
As it is inevitable that students and staff are in relatively close contact it is important that during this time, and at any time in fact, that students do not attend school if they are unwell. There are many people in our school community who have medical reasons that exposure to viruses and bacteria makes them very exposed to substantial health outcomes.
It is also important to always practice effective hygiene practices. Details are outlined below.
We appreciate your support in these matters.
Based on our current assessment of risk and acting on advice provided by Catholic Schools NSW, the NSW Department of Education, the NSW Ministry for Health and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, please note the following determinations and directions for CEDoW:
PRACTISING GOOD HYGIENE
Communicating and maintaining good hygiene standards is the most effective way to reduce the risk of acquiring and spreading respiratory infections using infection control guidelines. Please refer to the infection control procedures which include a range of practical strategies to reduce transmission of infectious diseases. The school provides appropriate handwashing soap as hand washing is the single most effective way to reduce the spread of pathogens that cause respiratory disease.
We wish to reiterate the importance for those presenting with flu-like symptoms not to attend school. If a child presents to sick bay with flu-like symptoms, the student will be quarantined and parents contacted to collect the child immediately. We appreciate your support in these matters.
EXTENDED TRAVEL BANS
Effective 1 March 2020 the Federal Government has issued a travel ban on foreigners coming to Australia from Iran. Consistent with the extension of the restrictions of those travelling from China (including Hong Kong & Macau), Australian citizens and permanent residents returning to Australia from Iran from 1 March 2020 are required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days.
The updated advice from the NSW Government for parents and affected staff is:
- Any student or staff member who has been in, or transited through, mainland China (not just Hubei province) or has been in Iran is excluded from work, school or child care services for 14 days from the date they left mainland China or Iran (as the COVID-19 incubation period can be as long as two weeks).
- Any confirmed case of COVID-19 will be excluded until they are medically cleared to return.
- Close contacts of a confirmed case of COVID-19 will be excluded for 14 days since last contact with the confirmed case.
- Students and staff who have returned to Australia from mainland China or Iran more than 14 days ago and have shown no symptoms are able to return to school.
The NSW Ministry of Health has processes to identify any close contacts of cases confirmed in Australia. Advice about not attending school would be provided to these close contacts by the NSW Ministry of Health.
Schools should immediately report any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 to the CEO, and contact the local Public Health Unit on 1300 066 055 to provide details so that the Public Health Unit can follow up as necessary.
OVERSEAS EXCURSIONS
All overseas travel or excursions organised by schools and the system are now placed 'on hold' until further notice with any planned trips scheduled before 30 April 2020 not able to proceed.
Being 'on hold' means that principals and schools are now directed not to make any monetary payment or plan alternate or additional itinerary arrangements with 3rd party travel providers or agents until further notice. This includes suspending any planned schedule of payments that are expected of parents and students in relation to international travel plans until further notice.
Week 9
Mon 23 March: School Cross Country
Wed 25 - Fri 27 March: Year 9 Camp Coolendel
CLICK HERE TO ACCESS REP SPORT DATES FOR 2020
Year 11 have made a very sensible start to the year with teachers commenting how focussed students have been in class.
RITE OF PASSAGE
Year 11 students have received their passports and lapel pins in a special assembly. This signifies Year 11 movement into senior school.
PASSPORTS
While we know a passport is a document you must use to identify you when travelling to most other countries in the world, the St John’s passport is similar as it is a signed record of everything students participate in outside of their normal classroom subjects. These are called extra curricular activities and all staff and senior students at St John’s are involved in this.
By being part of extra curricular school life students learn to:
· Interact with their peers and have fun
· develop skills such as collaboration, teamwork and leadership.
· gain confidence
· enhance their employability skills
· connect across the year group and school and build social networks.
The passport has proven useful in job applications and interviews outside of school and supports via evidence, the major awards at the end of the year with the silver and gold awards both requiring school and community service. Additionally, the passports are crucial in determining Student Representative Council nominations for 2021.
WORKSHOPS
This term students will be involved in workshops across a range of areas to support them in their study and general approach to managing senior school. Students were surveyed to determine which areas they may need support with: These sessions will be held at school and will involve input from both teachers and past students.
INFORMATION EVENING
The following is information that parents and students received at the Information Evening earlier in Week 3:
Mr. Simon Vaughan
Year 11 Coordinator
SENIOR MENTORING
A team of teachers including PALS teachers and Senior Mentor teachers have been interviewing students during their PALS time. In the conversations, students are asked to nominate the area in which they have a need for assistance OR the area that they need to improve the most OR their area of greatest difficulty OR what their study routine is like.
Then together the mentor and student talk about strategies that may assist the student with their area of concern. The aim of the Senior Mentoring program is to interview every student in Year 12 each term with the hope of making the experience of HSC a more positive experience for all students.
YEAR 12 HSC SUPPORT
During PALS time, our Senior Executive - Mrs Hogan, Mrs Pearce and Mr Eirth, have been providing Year 12 with presentations to aid students as they progress towards their HSC. The outline of the sessions include;
1.The HSC Bucket - focusing on team work during the HSC and the need for everyone to do the best they can.
2. Self-discipline, planning, motivation and good stress
3. Digital citizenship and looking at options for post school education for an engaging career/future
I would like to thank the Senior Executive for the support they are providing for the Year 12 cohort.
I encourage you to discuss these presentations and the mentoring program with your child to gain a greater insight into both programs.
ADMINISTRATION
Year 12 currently have two notes needing to be returned including “Consent for use of Image” and the “Responsible use of Technology” forms.
These are both legal requirements and it is imperative that they are returned to school as soon as possible. Consequences will need to be put in place if students fail to return these notes in a timely manner. Please select the following links to download copies of these notes.
Assessment calendars were issued to Year 12 this week. Students should use these calendars to map and plan their workload for the remainder of the year. It is a good idea to have these calendars on display at home or noted on family calendars/diaries so that families can plan around busy assessment times. The assessment calendar is located on our school website beneath the 'curriculum/assessment schedules and information' tab or by clicking here.
CONGRATULATIONS TO…
- The House Captains - on your organisation of the house meetings and planning for the swimming carnival - the cheering was some of the loudest we have ever heard!
- Kayleigh Sleath and Lauren Singleton who were selected to attend the National Youth Science Forum over the holidays. I am sure they were inspired by their experiences during the forum.
THANKYOU TO…
- The twenty students from Year 12 who attended the working bee over the weekend and contributed to improving the school’s physical environment - helping to make St John’s a better place for everyone!
- To all of the parents and students who attended the Parent/Teacher interview night. The large number of families who attended is testament to the commitment students and parents achieving the best possible results in their HSC.
AND REMEMBER…
The HSC is a balancing act between work, physical wellbeing, social wellbeing and community. It is about “rewarding yourself with the things you do enjoy as an incentive for completing the things you don’t.”
With “Strong Minds and Gracious Hearts”
Mrs. Wendy Isemonger
Year 12 Coordinator
BOYS DIOCESAN TENNIS
Congratulations to the Boys Tennis team who finished runners up at the Boys’ Tennis Championships. This was a great achievement for a young newly formed team with only one member remaining from last year’s successful team. The members of the team were: Christian Muller and Joshua Miller (Year 8), Christian Page (Year 10) and James Phillips (Year 11). This was a truly team effort with everyone contributing to ensure the team’s success.
The first match was against Corpus Christi High School. In the doubles, we had a win and a loss so it was important we made a strong start in the singles. James Phillips and Christian Page didn’t disappoint with both boys winning 6-0. Joshua Miller had a battle on his hands but came through on top which meant St John’s were through to the next round.
The second match was against Mt Carmel and again it was one win and one loss in the doubles and it depended on the singles results. James Phillips and Christian Page had wins and Joshua Miller and Christian Muller gained valuable games in their matches to ensure that although the sets were equal, we had enough games to make it through to the final.
St John’s met Edmund Rice College in the final. The doubles was evenly split again so the singles matches were going to determine the winners. We started well with a 6-0 win to James but we were out-powered in the other matches going down 4 sets to 2.
Our youngest players Christian Page and Joshua Miller did an outstanding job, in the number 1 and 2 positions respectively, often playing against much older and physically stronger opposition. Christian Page faced some extremely tough opposition but he thrived on the harder tennis and played strongly gaining valuable games in his matches. Joshua Miller often outsmarted his opposition with his clever tactical play. James Phillips at number 3 had the opposition guessing with his shot-making and his serve was on fire - so much so he went through the tournament undefeated. Our number 4 player was Christian Page. He ran every ball down and made his opposition fight for every point, only losing one set during the tournament.
With such a young team doing so well the boys are looking forward to next year's contest and going one better. Thank you to the parents for your support and transporting the boys on the day.
Mrs. Wendy Isemonger
BOYS DIOCESAN TOUCH FOOTBALL
The Boys Touch Football Gala Day was held Week 5 at Dalton Park, Fairy Meadow. Three teams travelled up and were led by teachers Mr Ellul, Mr Lopez and Mr Gould. Mr Eirth was also involved in trialling and training the Open Boys side to prepare them for the day. Final placings from the day can be seen below. A special mention to the Under 13 Boys side who finished 3rd place and by all accounts, had an excellent day of touch football.
At the conclusion of the day, the Wollongong Diocesan Rep teams were announced for the Open and Under 15s. Congratulations to Jarrah Treewek (Year 9) who gained selection in the Under 15 side, and to Adam Staunton (Year 9, Under 15s) and Marcus Heagraves (Year 11, Opens) who were named as shadows on the day.
The Girls Touch Football Gala Day was held this week, also at Dalton Park Fairy Meadow. Whilst specific details and photos from the day will be shared in the next newsletter, a copy of the final placings can be viewed below. At the conclusion of the day, Aroha Spillane (Year 12) was selected in the Wollongong Diocesan Open Girls side. Congratulations!
Girls Placings: Diocesan Touch Football
Under 13s- 5th Place
Under 15s- 6th Place
Opens- 4th Place
NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON
A great day was had at the All Schools Triathlon last week in Penrith. All members of staff who attended on the day were incredibly pleased with both the talent and behaviour of our students. In total St John’s were represented by 26 teams composed of 77 athletes.
On the previous day, our school was also represented in the individual event by the following students: Kirra Dale, Jai Holland, Jake Pepper, Bryn Robinson-Mills, Freya Robinson-Mills, Lachlan Sleath and Hugh Vaughan.
A big thank you to all the parents and staff who supported this event, in particular those who woke early Thursday morning to have students on the bus by 4:20am!
Results from both days can be found here: NSW All Schools Triathlon Results (2020).
Below is a list of exceptional results from our school over the two days.
NSW STATE JUNIOR ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Well done to the following students who competed at the NSW State Junior Athletics Championships in February:
- Baylee Holland – 3rd U18 800m, will represent NSW at Australian Track and Field Championships in March
- Jai Holland – 7th in 800m (in a PB), 13th 400m (in a PB), 16th in 2000m Steeple Chase
- Jacob Pepper - 17th in 2000m Steeple Chase (in a PB)
MORE ATHLETICS SUCCESS!
Tsar and Brooklyn Mandavy travelled to Tamworth last weekend for the Little Athletics NSW State Combined event where they competed in 7 events with points recorded for performances based on the Little Athletics NSW Multi-Event Pointscore tables/system.
At the conclusion of 7 events, Tsar finished third of 17 boys in the under 15 age group, also finishing 1st in 2 of the events and achieving personal bests in high jump (1.80m) and javelin (35.83m).
First time contesting this event brother Brooklyn also had a great weekend placing 15th of 35 boys.
Tsar has had a busy season, breaking two records at the Lake Illawarra Gala Day including Javelin (33.08m) and 300m hurdles (48.46sec) as well as achieving 5 gold and a silver medal at the Mid South Coast Regional championships, qualifying him to compete at the Little Athletics NSW State Championships this month. Congratulations Tsar and Brooklyn, we wish you the best of luck in the upcoming events!
PERMISSION NOTES
Students and parents are reminded to continue the process of returning sport permission notes by the due date as stated on the note. Failure to meet the due date may jeopardize a student’s participation in a sporting event. In the instance of financial difficulties, the student can see the Representative Sport Coordinator. Parents may also contact the Principal’s Secretary to discuss any difficulties.
CATHOLIC SCHOOLS NSW SPORT
The new Catholic Schools NSW Sport webpage is up and running. For all NSWCCC registrations and involvement in school Diocesan Gala days (playing for St John's), students will need to register at https://csnsw.sport before the event or the CCC nomination due date.
GOOGLE CLASSROOM & SPORT TEAM NOMINATIONS/TRIALS
The new Rep Sport Google Classroom code is: hap63vs.
Students who have not yet joined the classroom page are encouraged to join. Team nominations for Boys Netball, Y7/8 Boys & Girls AFL and Boys Rugby League have now closed. Trials for these events along with other upcoming events (Soccer & Futsal) are being held in the next few weeks with an emphasis on the soccer (football) selections. Students are reminded to check their daily notices for when trials will be held.
UPCOMING EVENTS TERM 1 2020
Week Seven:
12 March: WATER POLO - NSWCCC Closing Date. Visit https://csnsw.sport/ to register
13March: SWIMMING - Wollongong Diocesan Carnival
Week Eight:
16 March: Hockey - NSWCCC Closing Date. Visit https://csnsw.sport/ to register
18 March: RUGBY LEAGUE 15’S and OPENS - Wollongong Diocesan Selection Trial
18 March: Golf - NSWCCC Closing Date. Visit https://csnsw.sport/ to register
Week Nine:
23 March: SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY
25 March: Backup- RUGBY LEAGUE 15’S and OPENS - Wollongong Diocesan Selection Trial
27 March: Diving - NSWCCC Closing Date. Visit https://csnsw.sport/ to register
Week Ten:
31 March: NSWCCC Swimming
1 April: 13’s, 7-9/10 Pathway BOYS & GIRLS Football (SOCCER)- Wollongong Diocesan Gala Day
Week Eleven:
6 April: Backup - 13’s, 7-9/10 Pathway BOYS & GIRLS Football (SOCCER)- Wollongong Diocesan Gala Day
Miss. Kate Davis
2020 SWIM CARNIVAL REPORT
A great start to the 2020 sporting year with another successful school swimming carnival. With beautiful weather on the day and a positive atmosphere created by all of our SJE community and the competitors.
A huge thankyou to the following parents who assisted with various tasks and roles throughout the day, your positive help was very much appreciated.
Lisa Stratton, Rachel Batchelor, Renae Beattie, Justin Butler, Geraldine and Pat McGill, Tracey Rundle, Emily Silberberg, Amanda Soper, Corey Carter, Jacinta Davis and Kim Hair.
Below are some key highlights from the day.
SWIMMING CARNIVAL HOUSE POINTS RESULTS
Congratulations to the Polding for first place in house points for the day!
AGE CHAMPIONS FOR 2020
A number of Records were broken, a huge congratulations to the following students:
Thank you to all the SJE staff for your efforts with the day, a special mention to the PDHPE faculty, and Mark Malady for ensuring a smooth and effective day was had by all.
YEAR 7 PDHPE
Students are provided with many opportunities to learn about and practice ways of adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a productive and active life.
During term one students will work on a range of simple movement skills being taught and revisited including some lead up work to the major school carnivals, Athletics, Cross Country and Swimming.
During terms two and three students are provided with learning experiences that develop understanding around healthy habits in relation to nutrition and exercise, the current issues relating to drug use including the use and effect of alcohol, movement activities centred creative dance and Indigenous games.
Term four the focus will shift to physical and social/emotional issues regarding moving through puberty, in a relaxed environment where students are able to contribute ideas, thoughts and questions in a safe and positive learning environment.
YEAR 8 PDHPE
In the current practical Dance Unit Year 8 PDHPE students are participating in a variety of planned and improvised dance activities. They explore features and elements of composition. Individually and in groups they plan, perform and modify dance sequences.
YEAR 9
Year 9 PDHPE students will have a physically challenging and mentally thought provoking year due to the diverse range of practical and theory units studied. Practical units include: Invasion Games, Active for Life, World Games and Celebrating Diversity.
Each unit provides students with the opportunity to enhance decision-making and problem solving skills in game situations and participating in some unique non-mainstream sports. Theory units include HeadStrong, Drugs Use, Sexual Health and Celebrating Diversity, providing students with the opportunity to collaboratively discuss and individually research topics of great significance in their current lives.
YEAR 9 AND 10 PASS
Term one unit ‘Physical Fitness’ develops the knowledge and understanding of physical activity, physical fitness and it’s components. Through practical participation, students apply concepts to improve their fitness levels by increasing both planned and incidental activity through the use of fitness measurement and evaluation to set and work towards goals.
YEAR 10 PDHPE
By playing these games, participants will learn the key skills and tactics for games such as Baseball, Cricket and Softball. Throughout this unit students will develop their fundamental movement skills and work collaboratively with their peers to enhance their performance. Video analysis is providing a unique opportunity to provide personal and peer feedback.
YEAR 10 PDHPE
Young people becoming advocates to help others respond positively to future life challenges. The Stage 6 PDHPE syllabus is moving towards collaborative project work. The skills required to work collaboratively need to be explicitly taught and developed in the Stage 5 PDHPE syllabus. The upcoming health unit ‘Future Challenges’ commences in Week 7. A reminder that students are not required to wear their practical PE uniform as the focus will move from practical skills to theory. The unit has been written using an inquiry pedagogical approach through Project Based Learning (PBL). Project Based Learning is an inquiry-driven methodology that engages students in relevant, real-world problems that require them to attain strengths and skills essential for success in the 21st century - collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking/problem solving and digital citizenship. In groups students will create a project that addresses the driving question; ‘How can we as advocates, design a product, service or initiative so that individuals or groups of young people can overcome future life challenges?’ The PDHPE staff and excited to see what the students produce.
YEAR 10 CHILD STUDIES
The term one unit; Health and Safety in Childhood is focusing on providing the students with the knowledge and skills to understand the needs of sick and injured children. Specific first aid procedures are looked at, as well as supportive environments available to children in hospitals.
BUSH CRAFT
Year 10 Bush Craft have been busy preparing and refining their leadership skills in anticipation for the Year 7 and 9 camps. All of the students in Year 10 have been assigned activities in which the campers will participate in. Some of these activities include Canoeing, Abseiling, Bush Walking and Swimming. The maturity and care our Year 10 Bush Craft students have shown in organising engaging, fun and educational activities is extremely impressive. Well done Year 10!
Year 9 Bush Craft have commenced their two year course in Bush Craft with enthusiasm and high energy. Over the coming months they will be learning the basics of what Bush Craft has to offer ranging from wilderness first aid, navigation, ecology and canoeing skills. We look forward to seeing the new group of Bush Craft students achieve personal goals and learn invaluable skills!
YEAR 11 PDHPE
This year Mr. Vaughan and Mrs Frew will lead the preliminary PDHPE charge to the HSC. Year 11 PDHPE students are currently working through the unit Better Health for Individuals where they explore health behaviours and the influence of policy and promotion on individual and community health. In Term 2 they will explore biomechanical principles in the Unit 'Body in Motion'. The two options First Aid and Outdoor Recreation will be taught in Term 3.
YEAR 12 PDHPE
Year 12 PDHPE students regularly challenge their knowledge and strive to expand their knowledge on the “Health of Australians” and the “Factors affecting Performance”. The cohort is working hard in learning teams to challenge themselves and each other to work at their very best. Students demonstrate high work ethic and a passion to learn more about health, movement and sports medicine.
COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
Year 11 students are studying resource management and the intricacies that contribute to the wellness of individuals in our community. Students will identify the Individuals and Groups as to which our resources are diminished or built upon and how people can use techniques such as conflict resolution, leadership styles and group cohesion to influence overall wellness. We are analysing the effects of these techniques by viewing the Blind Side and submitting an assessment task displaying our findings. Lastly, we will study Families and Communities looking at stages of the lifespan, socialisation, the nature of change and the impacts these factors can have.
Year 12 students are involved in a number of learning experiences, assessment tasks and activities that will enrich their knowledge and understanding of matters concerning our local, national and global matters within communities and family groups. The students are currently involved in completing a class Independent Research Projects (IRPs). Both classes are demonstrating great enthusiasm and dedication to their learning and studies.
2020 SPORT
The PDHPE staff would like to welcome students and parents to an exciting year of PDHPE and Sport. 2020 has seen a restructured in Sport and aims to provide a wide range of sporting activities for students to participate in, with the focus being on variety, teamwork and most importantly, enjoyment. In 2020 sport is integrated into the PDHPE curriculum. Students will be participating in sport related activities that aim to compliment the PDHPE syllabus outcomes. These sport specific periods will be allocated double PDHPE lessons and complement the students PDHPE practical lessons.
Students are required to wear their PDHPE uniform on the periods in their timetable where they have placed a P. The allocation of practical lessons for each class is a collaborative effort from all staff to ensure that school space and resources are used effectively as possible to ensure all students reach optimal learning outcomes. Notes for 7 and 8 Sport will be available on the Compass App.
Thank you to all the students and parents for embracing this exciting change in the delivery of sport. The PDHPE staff are eager to see students engage in an energetic year of PDHPE and Sport.
YEAR 9 SPORT
'Year 9 Sports are very fun. We get a lot of opportunities to go places outside of school and try different sports. Some sports we play are volleyball. basketball and lawn bowls' - Kiara Skinner
'Year 9 sport is fun and it gets us moving. Sport in Year 9 gives us lots of opportunity to try different sports and helps us learn a range of skills.' Kane Williams
Mrs. Rachel Frew
PDHPE Coordinator
UNIVERSITY PREPARATION PROGRAM (UPP)
The program endeavours to improve HSC study skills and allow exploration of post-high school opportunities. The Year 12 University Preparation Program (UPP) runs over 15 weeks at UOW Shoalhaven campus with sessions on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon.
Benefits of the program include;
- Free Year 12 and beyond skills development under the guidance of our In2Uni mentors who have achieved a Band 5 or higher in one or more HSC subjects
- Early Admissions interview or conditional offer for UOW upon successful completion of the UPP program
- Face-to-face and online subject resources to assist with the HSC
- Assistance completing your post school admissions and UAC online applications
- Mentoring to explore post-high school options, including higher education and pathways options based on your Year 12 academic performance
An information session was held with a guest speaker from UOW on Tuesday 25 February and Mrs Hill has run lunchtime sessions to assist with the application process. Applications close soon. All Year 12 students considering University and able to attend the designated afternoons are encouraged to apply.
PROFESSIONAL SNAPSHOT
The Shoalhaven Professional Business Association (SPBA) and Shoalhaven City Council ran the SPBA Professional Snapshot in Nowra on Wednesday 4 March. This event is now in it’s eleventh year, the Snapshot gives high school students a chance to explore a number of careers.
Each year, high school students spend time in local businesses to see what it is really like to be an accountant, engineer, lawyer, valuer, surveyor, architect, town planner, human resource specialist, allied health professional etc. The aim of the day is to help students decide what career might be right for them and show them the many professional industries that operate right here in Nowra.
This day is fantastic and would not be possible without the amazing support from our local business community. The businesses open their doors to our high school students and encourage them to pursue a professional career - often in fields that they have not previously considered.
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY (ANU)
Direct applications to ANU for 2021 have now opened. Please view their website for a detailed overview of the domestic direct application process.
Key points to consider:
- Applications for 2021 domestic undergraduate open 4 March and close 25 May.
- There is no charge for submitting an application.
- There is only one application for ANU that includes admission, guaranteed on-campus accommodation and access to over 200 scholarships in one form.
Watch the video walkthrough of the application portal to help you to better understand the system and know what to expect in the process.
WORK EXPERIENCE (YEAR 10) NATIONAL YOUTH THEATRE COMPANY
ATYP Work Experience is for any students in Year 10 who are passionate about theatre, not just drama students or aspiring actors. Over one inspiring week participants will be immersed in ATYP's day-to-day: they'll work alongside each of our departments learning how a professional arts company operates and what career pathways are available in the theatre industry.
- 10-14 August 2020 (Lights In The Park)
- 19-23 October 2020 (Soul Trading)
Applications are open right now and will close 27 March. Places are limited so get in quick!
https://atyp.com.au/learning/workplace-learning/?mc_cid=6d15caff07&mc_eid=e68662798e
SNOW CAREER - INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Instructor internships provide full training, accommodation, exams, lift passes and a guaranteed job offer at the end. Instructor internships are available in Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, Japan and the USA.
Students considering a career in the snow industry should get in touch with our experienced training consultants to discuss their training, visa and work options. The courses with EA Ski and Snowboard have been in operation at over 25 resorts around the world for 10 years, and with a 99% pass rate maintained each season AND the guaranteed job offer, it is a great career pathway program.
Program Requirements:
- Intermediate to advanced skiing or snowboarding ability
- Passion for snowsports
- Positive attitude and good work ethic
- Ability to work as part of a team
- 18 years of age by November 2020
Use this link for further information.
MEDICINE OR DENTISTRY CAREERS - FREE UCAT SESSIONS
Attention students considering a career in Medicine or Dentistry! The National Institute of Education will be conducting a FREE information session about the UCAT & Undergraduate Pathways into Medicine and Dentistry on the following dates. Parents are also invited and encouraged to attend. This event is absolutely free. Tickets are limited. Book today to avoid the disappointment of missing out.
Sydney (North Shore) - 16 March 2020 (6.30-8.00pm) - Hornsby Library.
Sydney (Western) - 16 March 2020 (6.00-7.30pm) - Penrith Library.
https://www.nie.edu.au/ucat-free/free-ucat-information-sessions
MECHANIC APPRENTICESHIPS AVAILABLE
2 x Light Vehicle Apprenticeships available with Shoalhaven City Council.
During the apprenticeship the successful candidates will complete a Certificate III Light Vehicle over 48 months through a combination of formal training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and practical on-the-job experience with the Host Employer Shoalhaven City Council.
Throughout the formal training and practical experience in the workplace, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to:
- Diagnose, repair and maintain council plant, motor vehicles & assets
- Use and maintain tools and equipment
- Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace
Please apply online via HVTC - http://jobs.hvtc.com.au/job/job_details.cfm?id=463230&from=direct
Ms. Carla Hill
Transition and Pathways Specialist
WORKING BEE THANK YOU
The first working bee for 2020 was held on Saturday 22 February. Thank you to everyone who attended, there was a great turnout of over 100 volunteers. It was so good to meet new families to the school and catch up with familiar faces from last year. The next working bee will be held in Term 2, the date will be confirmed a little closer to the event.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
We would like to welcome and introduce our new P&F Executive Committee members for 2020, they are:
- President: Corey Carter
- Vice President: Brad Simpson
- Assistant Vice President: Vanessa Cladingbowl
- Secretary: Monica Oke
- Assistant Secretary: Karen Sewell
- Treasurer: Janet Gill
- Parent Liaison & Publicity Officer: Jacinta Davis
CROSS COUNTRY
St John’s will be holding the annual Cross Country Carnival on Monday 23 March 2020 at Willandra. We are seeking volunteers to assist with running of the event, if you are available to assist please contact Jacinta Davis on 0455 173 924.
YEAR 7 IMMUNISATIONS (& YEAR 8 CATCHUP) - NEW DATE FRIDAY 3 APRIL 2020
We would like to thank all those parents who offered to volunteer their time to help with student immunisations, however due to severe weather warnings the previously planned event had to be postponed. The new date for immunisation has been set for Friday 3 April 2020. We are seeking volunteers for the new date, if you are available to assist your help would be very much appreciated. Please contact Jacinta Davis on 0455 173 924.
Mrs. Jacinta Davis
UPDATING STUDENT CLASS DETAILS ON SCHOOL ONLINE LUNCH ORDERS
Some student lunch orders have been placed in the incorrect year group causing frustration and delay in the canteen at lunchtime. Please click here to see how to update your school lunch online account.
Click here to submit an online lunch order
Click here to view the Canteen Menu
TERM 1 CANTEEN ROSTER 2020
Phone 4423 1359
Click here to access the Term 1 2020 Roster
Please contact Vicki in our school canteen on 4423 1359 if you are able to assist this year. We have multiple days needing to be filled. If you could even spare an hour or two it would be greatly appreciated.
LOCAL ARTIST ASSISTS STUDENTS WITH NAIDOC WEEK BANNERS
We wish to thank local artist Kerry Williams for the support and guidance provided to our students to create such beautiful and meaningful artworks.
Mr. David Muller
Gooroon Coordinator
SURFING SIBLINGS DOMINATE
SIENNA CROWNED ILLAWARRA DISTRICT GIRLS GOLF CHAMPION
Congratulations to Year 9 student Sienna Clarke on her recent golfing success! Click here to read about Sienna's outstanding achievement!
MASS WITH A DIFFERENCE
Mass with a Difference will be celebrated on Sunday 29 March at 6pm in conjunction with the Parish Youth Group.Dear students, families and school communities,
Thank you for your school's participation in Catholic Schools Week from 1-7 March. It's a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and showcase many of the fantastic things happening in your school every day, and in all our Catholic schools across the Diocese of Wollongong.
We thank you for working together in partnership with us to help make your school community such a vibrant, nurturing place of learning, faith, belonging and hope.
If you or a family member or friend would like to enrol your child in one of our schools, please download an enrolment package here.
Have a look at our Catholic Schools Week video below, celebrating what our students across the diocese love about their Catholic school. Can you spot the students from your school?
Keeping in touch with the Catholic Primary Schools within the Shoalhaven District.
Please select below links to the Shoalhaven Catholic Primary Schools websites.
ACTIVE KIDS VOUCHERS
Reduce the cost of your child's registration with Active Kids!
The first of two $100 Active Kids vouchers for 2020 is now available and can be used from now until 31 December. A second voucher will be available from 1 July.
Claim your first voucher now: https://sport.nsw.gov.au/sectordevelopment/activekids/parents
Click here to view Catholic Care's upcoming courses.
SHOAL GIANTS AFL UNDER U15’s BOYS
Shoalhaven Giants are looking for boys between 13 and 15 this year to join their NEW under 15’s teams for 2020.
Having a huge boost in under 11’s & 13’s players this year they now have interest in under 15’s boys!
They just need a few more players to enter a team and do guarantee them a game into the South Coast AFL Junior Competition.
Training is Thursday’s between 5 & 6.30pm at West St and all are welcome.
More info call Dave on 0401 526 870.
IllAROO ROAD FOOTBALL CLUB are seeking players for
