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- PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
- FROM THE CURRICULUM OFFICE
- PASTORAL CARE
- UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
- NEWS FROM THE OFFICE
- YEAR 7 NEWS
- YEAR 8 NEWS
- NEWS FROM CREATIVE ARTS
- CAREERS NEWS
- NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY
- ASSORTED NEWS
- CANTEEN NEWS
- P&F NEWS
- RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
- COMMUNITY NOTICES
- SHOALHAVEN COMMUNITY OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Never in our wildest dreams could we have imagined how this first semester would look. It has certainly posed its challenges and we are so proud of our whole school community; students, staff and parents and carers in how they have taken every opportunity to positively address the issues as they have arisen.
These two week holidays are a welcome opportunity to refresh your spirit and take some rest. Have a wonderful holiday break and we look forward to seeing you back at the start of Term 3.
PEACEFUL, JUST RELATIONSHIPS
Over the last couple of weeks we have had a lot of conversations around understanding and appreciating the diversity that everyone brings to our school community. The focus, however, is how we accept the diversity of others and how we contribute personally to racism.
Whilst we would like to think that racism or other forms of social isolation do not exist at St John’s we must honour the fact that we are a large community of people, all with different life experiences.
What is important however is what we learn about ‘right relationships’ and how we work together to ensure that everyone understands the Catholic Social teachings and the ‘Dignity of every human being’.
So how do we address issues of members of our school community exhibiting racist actions or views?
As an educational institution we begin with focussing with absolute positive regard and educating the individual who does not yet understand the value of diversity and dignity of each person.
To enable this to happen it is important that no member of the school community tolerates racism. Whether they are the victim or a bystander, it is essential that it is reported. Only when we know there is a concern can we work to address it.
The school’s peaceful relations policy or the anti-bullying policy has very clear directions on how we build a peaceful community. Each student, whether a victim or bystander, is expected to
- Tell them to stop
- If it persists, report it.
This process is very effective, as it will be dealt with through restorative practices that include
- education,
- understanding how our actions affect others
- Consequences
This process is not only an effective process for managing issues at school, it is a very effective tool for managing ‘right relationships’ in life.
We have attached a link to the policy below and encourage all parents and carers to work through this with their child and encourage them to never tolerate bullying, racism or any other form of being treated inappropriately. This policy is also available in the school diary.
Click here to view St John's Anti-bullying Policy
All students have taken time during this week to consider this issue and become proactive to support Peaceful, Just Relationships.
SJE STUDENTS TAKE A STAND AGAINST RACISM
Mrs Sandra Hogan
Principal
WINTER UNIFORM
Many students are not taking advantage of all items which make up the school winter uniform. When they say they are cold, are they wearing a school jumper under their blazer or sports jacket? Are they wearing tights or the school track pants?
All students should be taking responsibility for their own warmth during the cooler months. Our uniform provides adequate warmth when all aspects of it are worn properly. Please remind your son or daughter that they should be in full Winter uniform. Hoodies and other non-school items of warmth are not a part of the uniform therefore may be confiscated and playground withdrawals could be issued if a student is out of uniform. This includes the wearing of black boots in place of the regulation school shoes.
HOLIDAY BREAK
Thank you to all staff, students and their families for all you have done to enable this term to be very successful. Certainly it has been different, but the personal achievements and contributions to the community should be celebrated. My hope is that everyone has a great break. Our Year 12 students will be focusing on their preparation for the Trials later in Term 3, but they too should ensure that they get some much earned rest and exercise.
Have a wonderful holiday and stay safe!
Mrs Leonie Pearce
YEAR 7-10 REPORTS
Year 7 - 10 reports are now available on COMPASS.
YEAR 10 HSC NATIONAL MINIMUM STANDARDS
Year 10 students sat the HSC National Minimum Standards tests during Week 10 and the results for numeracy and reading will be available on their Students Online account. The writing results will be available early next term. Those students who were absent or did not achieve a level 3 or above will have opportunities to do so later in the year.
YEAR 10 SUBJECT SELECTIONS
Most students have now had their interview and should have entered their selections online. Students are to enter online, print out the selection, have a parent or carer sign and return to their PALS teacher prior to the end of Week 2 Term 3.
Year 10 are to be congratulated on their approach to the process - asking lots of questions and engaging with the careers resources.
SUBJECT SELECTIONS YEAR 8 AND YEAR 9
Subject selections for Year 8 & Year 9 will occur during Term 3.
YEAR 12 HOLIDAY STUDY SUPPORT
We wish thank our teachers for volunteering to provide Study Sessions during the upcoming holiday period to support our Year 12 students. Students are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity for additional support offered in a variety of subjects.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MATHS PATHWAY 200 CLUB NOMINEES
FOUNDATION DAY
As mentioned last week, we are excited to announce that our SJE Foundation Day Celebrations will be held on Friday 24 July, Week 1 Term 3.
Not only is this a fantastic celebration of our wonderful school community, it is also a major social justice fundraiser with all money raised going to support two fantastic initiatives;
- St Vincent De Paul’s Winter Appeal: A fantastic charity supporting those in our community who are less fortunate than ourselves
- Timor Leste: While we may not be able to get to Timor this year, we can still ensure that we continue our vital support of such an amazing community.
I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tough times that some of our families have been through this year and do not want families to feel pressure in raising funds. While I know social justice is a major part of who we are as a community, if donations are going to add additional stress, please know that simply being a part of the day and helping to run such a fantastic celebration is support enough!
Mr James Eirth
Pastoral Care Coordinator
TERM 3
Week 1
Mon 20 July: Staff Development Day
Tues 21 July: Students Return for the commencement of Term 3
Fri 24 July: SJE Foundation Day Mass and Celebrations
Week 3
Mon 3 Aug: Year 10 Immunisations
Week 5 Year 12 HSC Trial examinations
TERM 4
Week 2- Week 5
Tues 20 October - Wed 11 November: Year 12 HSC
Week 4
Mon 2 Nov: Year 7 Immunisations (1st dose)
Week 5
8-15 Nov: NAIDOC Week Celebrations
MESSAGE FROM THE FINANCE OFFICE -DIRECT DEBIT
ST JOHN’S UNIFORM DONATIONS
We understand many families may be experiencing financial challenges or have been affected by the recent bushfires and Covid-19 situations. Our school provides a uniform pool for those needing assistance. Our supplies of uniforms are currently low therefore we ask if you have any unwanted uniforms and able to donate to our school these would be greatly appreciated.
Second-hand uniforms may also be sold/purchased with details on our webpage or by clicking the following link.
ST JOHN'S SECOND HAND UNIFORMS
UPDATE REGARDING ABSENCE DUE TO ILLNESS
Our most recent Covid-19 update was emailed to parents on 16 June in relation to the requirement for staff and students who have been absent from school with any flu-like symptoms to provide a medical clearance certificate prior to returning to school. This communication may be accessed by clicking here. We will continue to keep you informed of any further updates.
COVID-19 TRAVEL TO VICTORIA
The Covid-19 Pandemic is currently affecting several areas in Victoria. Should you be travelling to Victoria please click here to view affected areas and the latest advice from NSW Health.
Please continue to refer to this link and the Catholic Education Office Coronavirus information Centre, accessible through our School Website or by clicking the image below.
Year 7 Geography students have been learning about Landforms this term. Students rose to the group task of preparing a creative and engaging class lesson on landforms summarising what they have learnt. We saw some great ideas with some students making a Kahoot online quiz whilst another group excelled with their ‘Escape Room’ challenge of solving puzzles, deciphering codes, bursting balloons and finding clues to be the first to unlock the door!
YEAR 7 TECHNOLOGY MANDATORY
Year 7 Technology Mandatory have enjoyed some new and engaging end of term activities including experimenting with stop motion animation!
Mr Joshua Watson
Year 7 Coordinator
What a busy and crazy term it has been for Year 8 and the whole school.
Viewing the high standard of reports, seeing the way students have embraced the changes they have been faced with and how they have taken ownership of their learning, Year 8 have shown great maturity and a positive approach this Term.
I would like to remind students that winter uniforms are still expected to be worn next term. Sport uniforms should only be worn on days of practical PDHPE or allocated sport days which can be found on students timetable in their diary. PALS teachers will be checking and a note can be provided for students in exceptional circumstances. I look forward to seeing all students back next term for a positive start and a continuation or the amazing things we have already seen from Year 8 this year.
YEAR 8 REFLECTIONS
Mrs Sophie Daley
Year 8 Coordinator
Year 7 and 8 returned to school excited to be back in the art room.
Year 7 continued their work started in remote learning on Auzzie Icons - looking at the symbolism of Australian culture and using it as a basis for an animal themed work based around the art practice of artists Mulga and Reg Mombassa.
Year 8 have been practicing their graphite skills in a realistic self portrait.
Year 12 worked beautifully during remote learning and recently had an extensive feedback session from both peers and teachers on their Body of Work.
YEAR 8 MUSIC
Since returning back to school students have been engaged in ensemble practical activities. 8MUS4 were set the task of learning Dance Monkey as a band. Students had to learn their individual parts before putting it all together as an ensemble. Students developed their discipline skills, teamwork and love of making music together. The students definitely learnt that patience, persistence and responsibility is key in developing a good performance! Click here to see the final result!
Students in Year 8 have also been learning about Music for Film and Television. Students have been creating their own jingles and theme songs using software such as Google Flat and Soundtrap. Click here to listen to Eryka Simpson's jingle for a luxurious island escape!
YEAR 9 & 10 MUSIC
Students in Year 9 have been studying British Pop/Rock music this term. Works have been studied from the likes of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Adele and Amy Winehouse. Students were tasked to select, rehearse and then perform a British Pop/Rock song of their choice to the class. We saw quality performances across the Year 9 group.
Students in Year 10 have been studying Music for Film, TV and Video Games. Students have engaged in composition activities such as setting music to set movie scenes with a focus on tone colour, mood and atmosphere. Students were also tasked to select, rehearse and then perform a piece of music from a TV show, movie or video game. Students are to be commended for their outstanding performances and growth they have shown over the last 18 months.
Mr Mark Burian
Creative Arts Coordinator
WORK EXPERIENCE
Work experience is able to be approved from the beginning of Term 3. Students are encouraged to undertake work experience during the holidays so that they do not miss valuable learning taking place at school.
Year 10 work experience dates have changed and will now take place in Term 4, Week 8 from 30 November - 4 December.
Year 10 students are encouraged to start organising their own work experience early as many businesses are doing it tough and may not be able to accommodate work experience students this year. Also many other schools in the area have their students looking for work experience positions during Term 4. Further sessions will be run with Year 10 students on how to obtain a work experience position.
OPEN DAYS AND HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS (ALL STUDENTS)
CAMPION COLLEGE VIRTUAL OPEN DAY | 10am-5pm Wednesday 8 July 2020.
Students interested in learning more about Campion College and its Liberal Arts Degree are encouraged to take part in Campion’s first ever Virtual Open Day. You will have access to Campion’s prospectus, course guides, live lectures and on-demand presentations. Staff will also be available via live chat. Find out more at http://www.campion.edu.au/virtual-open-day.
JMC FREE ONLINE JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS
JMC is proud to present for the first time a series of Online High School Workshops. These workshops have been designed for students in Years 9-12 & provide an insight into life at JMC. All workshops will be held online, via Zoom and will be interactive, making them the perfect creative experience for the upcoming school holiday break! To register go to https://www.jmcacademy.edu.au/events/workshops
YEAR 12 STUDENTS (APPLICATIONS AND INFORMATION SESSIONS)
THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY - PORTFOLIO ADVICE SESSIONS WITH SYDNEY CON: 8 July, 3-6pm
Thinking about studying contemporary music, digital music, or composition for creative industries? Don't miss this opportunity to have a one-on-one lesson with an expert academic from Sydney Con. Bring along some examples of your work and receive personalised advice and feedback about preparing your portfolio for admission to the Con in 2021. Register at https://bit.ly/2VH4sGE
SYDNEY ACTORS SCHOOL 2021
Sydney Actors School 2021 applications are now open! This program will provide students with the skills required to cultivate a long-lasting career as an actor whether they want to act in Australia or abroad. Our aim is to produce excellent storytellers; with a focus on bridging the gap between acting student and industry professional. Find out more at: https://www.sydneyactorsschool.edu.au/
SYDNEY FILM SCHOOL 2020 APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!
Sydney Film School's 2020 applications are now open. Sydney Film School was founded to teach the essential filmmaking ‘tools’ necessary for a successful career in the global film industry. It is an intense training experience where students learn how to be filmmakers. Find out more at: https://sydneyfilmschool.edu.au/
SYDNEY COLLEGE OF THE ARTS PORTFOLIO
Submissions are now open. Year 12 students who would like to study at the Sydney College of the Arts in 2021 will need to submit a portfolio of their artwork. https://www.sydney.edu.au/arts/study/study-areas/creative-arts/portfolio.html
CAREER IN GAMES & FILM, EARLY ENTRY 2021 NOW AVAILABLE AT THE ACADEMY OF INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
A career in games or film development is just a short click away. Study practical courses in 3D Animation, Game Art, Programming and Game Design in a studio-simulated environment under industry experts. AIE’s graduates are industry-ready and immediately employable. Early Entry for the February 2021 intake is now available! Apply now: https://aie.edu.au/apply
APPLICATIONS TO STUDY AT NIDA IN 2021 open on 6 July–30 September. If you have any questions or if you would like more information on courses, please email applications@nida.edu.au.
Mrs Carla Hill
Transition and Pathways Specialist
FREE ORIGAMI LESSONS
YEAR 12 VET STUDENTS (HOSPITALITY) ASSESSMENT
CHESS CHAMPIONS
VINNIES WINTER APPEAL
Close off for orders is 8.30am daily, a 25c transaction fee applies.
We have also now received approval for volunteers to assist in the canteen. Volunteers have been identified as essential workers. Vicki has prepared a roster for the remainder of this term however we have several days where assistance is required. If you are able to assist in our canteen, please contact Vicki on 4423 1666 or e-mail info@sjedow.catholic.edu.au. Come alone or it would be lovely to bring a friend along to assist.
TERM 3 CANTEEN ROSTER
*URGENT* SEVERAL POSITIONS NEEDING TO BE FILLED*
HOLIDAYS
Well that’s it for another term. Just wanting to again thank all our wonderful parent and carer volunteers. It’s been a trying time these past few months with COVID-19 restrictions permitting volunteer access only for essential canteen duties; let's all hope that the new term will return us to some form of normality. Wishing you a safe and happy break, we look forward to seeing everyone back for Term 3.
CANTEEN VOLUNTEERS
A big thank you goes out to all our wonderful canteen volunteers, your assistance is greatly appreciated by all. We are always in need of more helpers so if you have any spare time in the new term please contact Vicki on 4423 1359 during business hours.
YEAR 10 IMMUNISATIONS - CALLING FOR VOLUNTEERS
The Immunisation date for Year 10, is set for Monday 3 August 2020 (Term 3, Week 3). Students will receive a single dose of Nimenrix (Meningococcal ACWY). If you are able to help out, please contact, Mrs Jacinta Davis (Parent Liaison Officer) on 0455 173 924 or e-mail gjdavis@shoal.net.au.
Mrs. Jacinta Davis
NOWRA PARISH
Click here to access Nowra Parish
Click here to access Nowra Parish Facebook Page
Click here to access the latest Nowra Parish Bulletin
Mr David Comensoli
Religious Education Coordinator
SHOALHAVEN COMMUNITY OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
Keeping in touch with the Catholic Primary Schools within the Shoalhaven District.
Please select below links to the Shoalhaven Catholic Primary Schools websites.