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- PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
- FROM THE CURRICULUM OFFICE
- NEWS FROM THE OFFICE
- UPCOMING DATES TO REMEMBER
- CAREERS NEWS
- YEAR 7 NEWS
- YEAR 8 NEWS
- NEWS FROM PDHPE DEPARTMENT
- NEWS FROM THE LIBRARY
- ASSORTED NEWS
- RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
- CANTEEN NEWS
- P&F NEWS
- SHOALHAVEN COMMUNITY OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
- COMMUNITY NOTICES
FAREWELL FR PATRICK FAHERTY
It was announced last weekend that Fr Patrick Faherty will be retiring as parish priest of Nowra. We would like to recognise his magnificent contribution to the parish, the diocese and most of all to us here at St John’s.
Fr Pat has been both a spiritual guide and good friend. He has always given his time generously to our school community by being there for us to celebrate the sacraments, and share his words of wisdom in his homilies, especially on key events like Foundation day and the Year 12 graduation. Fr Pat has joined us on reflection days and other special events. However it has been in our most difficult times that we have been most blessed with his support and practical assistance.
Whilst Fr Pat was an outstanding leader it is through his humility and ability to so peacefully walk beside us that he has shone. Never one for the front of the stage, on many occasions he would slip quietly in and watch from the back. His presence was heartwarming and truly a presence of Jesus in our lives.
Fr Pat was so very generous with his time. I don’t believe that he ever understood what it meant to take a day off! He usually worked late into the evening and was so often present at the parish centre. This is probably one reason why he was so very effective in his ministry. He gave his time to meet with people and get to know them. He knows them in a way that shows that every person is unique and valued by him.
Personally, I have valued his support as a spiritual guide and good friend, Fr Pat was always available for a chat and loved to hear about how things are going at St John’s. He took true delight in hearing our stories.
Well, the day has finally come for him to take some rest and, whilst we will miss him dearly, we have been so very blessed for the gift that is Fr Patrick Faherty. We wish him all the best in his retirement and will always be grateful for being the face of God to all of us in such a genuine and caring way. Fr Pat truly lives our school motto ‘Pax Christi’ and personifies our school prayer ‘The Peace Prayer of St Francis’.
God Bless you Fr Pat.
YEAR 12
Congratulations to our Year 12 students on their very positive engagement with their TRIAL exams. We are all looking forward to their return to school on Monday and wish them the best in their final weeks. There are some very special events planned to help make these days memorable. This time is also so very critical for all students as they prepare for their final HSC exams.
HSC STUDENTS - PRIORITY COVID TESTING
Mrs Sandra Hogan
Principal
It has been so positive to see the way our Year 12 students have engaged in the challenge of the Year 12 Trial HSC examinations. So many teachers have remarked on their preparation, focus and resilience as they approached each examination. These exams are always challenging, but as we consider the additional hurdles posed by COVID - 19, we are even prouder of the way our Year 12s have approached each exam.
You would have heard in the media of the increased restrictions being placed on schools to enable the safety of all students and staff. These recent media reports have focused strongly on the many things that can't happen in school life. For our Year 12, our aim in preparing their events is to ensure that the final days at St John’s are memorable and celebratory. These restrictions have led us to modify and adapt the ceremonies and events but this will not mean that graduation of our students will not be a fitting way to farewell the Class of 2020.
All of our teachers are focusing on engaging the students in their learning and trying to think outside the square to offer extra curricular activities that are COVID safe. From origami, chess, debating and maths club to gardening, PAX initiatives and house based sporting activities at lunch time.
We have a team of dedicated and determined staff members at St John’s working to make school a great place to be - for all. We encourage you to focus on the positives with your child, keeping the school’s approach in mind.
Mrs Leonie Pearce
YEAR 11 YEARLY EXAMS
Exams begin Monday 7 September. Students will have flexible attendance when there is no scheduled exam. If students are at school before or after an exam they must attend study class. If students have two exams on the one day they are not allowed to leave school grounds between exams. Students remaining at school will be required to attend study classes.
Students are reminded to read the Student Rules and Procedures for Exams. Any illness and misadventure must be communicated to the curriculum office on the day of the exam. Students are to follow normal procedures for illness and misadventure.
Exams will follow the COVID-safe exam procedures as outlined by NESA and the CEDoW. All students must return to school on Monday 14 September.
Click here to view the Year 11 Yearly Exam timetable.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – 2020 HSC EXAM SUPERVISORS
St John’s are taking expressions of interest for supervisors for the 2020 HSC Examination. The examination period is from Tuesday 20 October to Friday 6 November 2020.
Supervisors will assist the School’s HSC Presiding Officer, Mr Neil Parker, during the HSC exams. They will be supervising students.
Supervisors receive a roster from their presiding officer. The number and length of shifts varies depending on the number of exams held.
Essential requirements
Supervisors must:
- be over 18 years of age
- have a valid Working With Children Check clearance for employment ($80 for five years)
- work as part of a team
- have attention to detail
- be able to carry out duties confidentially and discreetly
- be able to stand for long periods of time. Supervisors must not have a friend or close relative sitting the HSC at the same school or be an employee of or have recently been employed by the school.
The current rate of pay for supervisors is $23.82 per hour. If you are interested in being a supervisor, please contact the school on 4423 1666 or email info@sjedow.catholic.edu.au.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE MATHS PATHWAY 200 CLUB NOMINEES
MESSAGE FROM SHOALBUS RE: SCHOOL BUS TRAVEL
Students travelling on a Shoal Bus to and from school are required to have a valid school bus pass for the school service they are catching. If a valid school pass cannot be shown a fare will be charged. In the event the school bus pass is lost, some form of student ID is to be shown whilst obtaining a replacement pass (fee applies). You can help make your child’s school bus journey more pleasant by ensuring your child has a valid school bus pass and presents it to the driver in the morning AND afternoon. 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. Skateboards/Scooters/Bicycles are not permitted on the bus.
If you have any questions or your child requires a new bus pass please contact Shoal Bus on 4423 2122.
TERM 3
Week 10
Tues 22 Sept: Year 12 Breakfast 7:30am
Wed 23 Sept: Year 12 Graduation Assembly (Livestream at this stage) 9:30am
Thurs 24 Sept: Parent/Teacher Interviews 3:30pm
Fri 25 Sept: Parent/Teacher Interviews 9am-2:30pm. Pupil Free Day.
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
YEAR 10 WORK EXPERIENCE
All Year 10 students will be undertaking work experience in Term 4 Week 8 (30 Nov – 4 Dec). It is the student’s responsibility to organise their own work experience placement, the skills they learn from this activity are very similar to looking for real employment. In the current climate it is important to start early as many businesses are unable to take work experience students this year. PALS teachers and Mrs Hill are available to assist with the process.
OPEN DAYS
TAFE NSW
TAFE NSW Virtual Open day is taking place Wednesday 9 and Thursday 10 September. Click here to register.
AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY (ADFA) Open Day (on demand)
Did you miss the live event? It’s not too late to catch all the excitement on replay. You can tune in anytime to experience all the amazing benefits of studying at ADFA. Click here to view.
YEAR 12 UNIVERSITY INFORMATION
FLINDERS UNIVERSITY (SOUTH AUSTRALIA)
Last call for students wanting to take the Flinders UniTEST. It will take place at our school after the HSC exams. See Mrs Hill to register your interest.
ACU EARLY ADMISSION
This program will base offers on Year 11 results. Offers for ACU based on this program will start next week and offers will be made fortnightly until the end of September. Click here for details.
SCHOLARSHIPS
TAFE
TAFE has scholarships available. All students considering TAFE should look to apply. Click here for details.
SHOALHAVEN EDUCATION FUND GRANTS ARE NOW OPEN
TEACHING SCHOLARSHIP - WOLLONGONG DIOCESE CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE
Students studying Primary Education at ACU or Notre Dame can apply for this generous scholarship which includes $20 000, but more importantly a guaranteed teaching position in a Catholic primary school in our Diocese. Also available for students studying Bachelor of Education Secondary teaching (in Science, Technology or Maths specialisation) at any University. Contact Mrs Hill for an application form.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
Learn and demonstrate leadership skills to make your resume stand out. Join your local Surf Lifesaving Club and become a patrolling lifesaver. We’ll train you in the skills you need - first aid, inflatable rescue boat crew/driver licence.
Any students interested in getting involved or finding out more can click here to register your interest or phone 0458 356 417.
POSITIONS VACANT
SHOALHAVEN CITY COUNCIL
Shoalhaven City Council have the following apprenticeships and traineeships available to apply now (applications close 7 Sept) for a start in 2021.
Apprenticeships
- Cert III in Automotive (Heavy Vehicle) - Ulladulla and Bomaderry
- Cert III in Engineering Mechanical (Fitting) - Bomaderry
- Cert III in Electrotechnology Electrician - Ulladulla and Bomaderry
- Cert III in Electronics and Communications - Bomaderry
- Cert III in Fabrication - Bomaderry
Traineeships
- Cert III in Business Admin - Nowra
- Cert II in Civil Construction - Bomaderry
- Cert III in Horticulture - Ulladulla
- Cert II in Water Operations - Nowra
School Based Traineeship
- Cert II in Conservation & Land Management - Nowra.
Go to hvtc.com.au/jobs to find out more and apply.
TRANSPORT NSW APPRENTICE AND TRAINEE
Recruitment for 2021 is now open.
To find out more, please click here view the brochure which contains detailed information regarding each of our Apprenticeships/Traineeships. Applications close midnight Sunday 6 September.
AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICESHIP
Jervis Bay Auto (Vincentia). Call Rob on 4441 8900.
CARPENTRY APPRENTICESHIP (Nowra)
See Mrs Hill for details.
SCHOOL BASED APPRENTICESHIP (Plumbing)
Suit Year 10 student who can get to St Georges Basin. The work aspects will be 1 or 2 days a week and during the school holidays.
HSC STUDY SESSIONS
With the HSC Trial exams concluding shortly, InspirationED have a number of programs and services that will allow Year 12 students to continue to prepare for the final exams.
The first of these is a series of free Spring Sessions held over the next few weeks. These engaging and dynamic classes are designed to help students succeed in the final exams.
For all dates and to register please click here.
Mrs Carla Hill
Transition and Pathways Specialist
Moving forward, this will be a busy term for Year 7. Progress grades will be made available at the end of Week 7 and I encourage students to use these as an opportunity to seek feedback on their progress and learning in the classroom.
A reminder that these are not a final grade but an indication of where students are sitting at the present moment. There’s lots of opportunity for growth. I look forward to a positive and exciting term for Year 7!
“God’s gift to you is your life. What you become is your gift to God”
Mr Joshua Watson
Year 7 Coordinator
We are officially over half way through the Year. It has been pleasing to see the growth that is occurring in Year 8 at the moment. It is important that Year 8 maintain high expectations in their learning and in their presence at the school. This aligns with the two wells that form the foundation of our school values; Excellence in learning and Positive Relationships.
I remind students the importance of wearing the correct uniform. Sport Uniform is for Practical PDHPE Lessons only or sport days. PALS teachers have a timetable outlining the correct days each students should be wearing their uniform and will be using these every morning PALS. Students who are in the wrong uniform will be placed on Uniform Withdrawal. Some exciting things have been happening across the year group.
JANE AND ERYKA
Jane and Eryka of Year 8 have demonstrated care and compassion as well as an extraordinary talent in composing their own song 'Secret Garden' as a tribute to their close friend & fellow student who suddenly lost a family member recently. The girls used the assistance of Ms Baker and Mr McKinnon to record the piece of music. Absolutely beautiful girls!
YEAR 8 TECHNOLOGY MANDATORY
Year 8 Technology Mandatory have been studying Materials (Textiles) creating chalk fabric pastel designs, inspired by Indigenous Fashion Designer Lyn-Al Young who's fabric designs are influenced by the Gunnai, Wiradjuri, Gunditjmara and Yorta Yorta Aboriginal peoples.
YEAR 8 MC
Our Junior MC class appreciated a tasty lesson cooking Indonesian Food. Their rice paper rolls were very healthy & delicious! Students also enjoyed the opportunity to photograph this event!
YEAR 8 AGRICULTURE
All smiles as Year 8 Agriculture enjoyed the sunshine , baby chicks and gardening in our Ag plot.
'I was a stranger and you welcomed me and loved me as yourself.'
Mrs Sophie Daley
Year 8 Coordinator
SPORT
Sport and PDHPE have taken a different approach in 2020, it has been a challenging and new experience for us all. Participating in normal and traditional sports or games has been hard due to COVID-19, but our PDHPE teachers and staff have done a great job making sure that the sports lessons still remain interesting and engaging.
YEAR 7 PDHPE
In Term 3 theory; Students explore the dietary habits of young people in relation to nutritional guidelines. They investigate the social and cultural influences on food choices and assess nutritional information including a critical analysis of media messages and food labelling. They are developing planning skills as they design a healthy meal for a family. Yum!!!! The PE staff can’t wait to find out how tasty their creations were. In Term 3 practical; Students are exploring the interrelationship between health and physical activity in maintaining a healthy, safe and active life through cultural and historical aspects in sport. They will have the opportunity to participate in cultural appropriate activities, and have learning experiences that integrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander games and historical games that have developed over time.
YEAR 8 PDHPE
In Term 3 theory; Students are exploring the roles and responsibilities found in a healthy and safe relationship. While unpacking how to treat one another, students will learn what it means to be an active part of their community and how to acknowledge/appreciate the differences that exist within a community setting. Students also explore ethical considerations within a relationship. Furthermore, additional learning on bullying, online bullying and discrimination are explored.
In Term 3 practical; Students are focusing on developing skills within team games linked to striking and invading. The key is to transfer these skills within a variety of team games contexts. Students will participate in activities which will sequentially build from simple movement drills/games to dynamic complex environments. Students will be focussing on developing key skills within team games. Students will aim to enhance their body awareness, timing and anticipation and ability to manipulate an object.
YEAR 9 PDHPE
This semester Year 9 students will be engaging in a group project based learning task that will require students to create a product that can be used within the school community that answers the driving question,
"How can I keep my mental health at its best and support the mental health of others?”.
This project based learning task will go hand in hand with the ‘Look Out Project Workshops’. The PE staff are very excited to see what product each student group produces and look forward to showcasing students’ products.
YEAR 9 PASS
YEAR 10 PASS
In Term 3 students are developing their coaching skills. They’re learning about coaching roles and responsibilities, ethical coaching, coaching opportunities and qualifications needed to become an accredited coach. Students gain a greater understanding of how to structure a
training session. They have the opportunity to research and evaluate a training plan for a selected sport.
BUSHCRAFT
YEAR 10 PDHPE
In Term 3 theory students are developing their road safety knowledge and examining their values and attitudes around safe driving. Effective road safety education will give students opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes to help them make informed and safer decisions in traffic environments. Students are working towards their task assessment where they have been given a choice on how to present their understanding on road safety. We are excited to see evidence of their learning through a student determined and student centered task.
In Term 3 practical students are learning to adapt and transfer movement skills and concepts common to invasion games. Through the use of video analysis and peer assessment students are learning the skills to objectively appraise a peer’s attacking and defensive skills and game play skills. Students also learn to interact effectively as they support and collaborate with others in group or team situations.
YEAR 10 CHILD STUDIES
YEAR 11 SLR
Year 11 Sport, Lifestyle & Recreation (SLR) students have been putting the theory of the Resistance Training unit to practice. Pre COVID students would have visited local gyms to access resistance equipment and programs. SLR teachers, Mrs Prayetno, Mr Lopez, Mr Vaughan and Mrs Gray have used their expertise to adapt gym based programs and guide student centered programs here at SJE. The classes have used free weights and cardio to create a basic exercise program to improve muscular strength and endurance. It’s been great to see students challenge their fitness level and generate interest in the benefits of resistance training to their health and well-being.
YEAR 11 PDHPE
Both Year 11 classes attended their Outdoor Recreation hike today where they put their Outdoor Recreation Option content into practice with opportunity to be challenged and grow as the 2021 HSC PDHPE Cohort.
YEAR 11 COMMUNITY & FAMILY STUDIES
YEAR 12 PDHPE & YEAR 12 CAFS
CAFS and PDHPE students are currently completing their trials. Mrs Frew, Mrs Isemonger, Ms Davis and Mrs Prayetno are very proud of how the CAFS and PDHPE students have prepared for their trials. The remainder of Term 3 students will be reflecting on their trial results and revising content for their upcoming HSC exams in Term 4. We will be shaking up revision to ensure students not only revise course content but also have some fun and laughs in doing it. Best of luck Year 12 CAFS and PDHPE students. The entire PD/H/PE faculty staff are proud of you all.
Mrs Rachel Frew
PDHPE Coordinator
VINNIES WINTER APPEAL - THANK YOU
The support provided by St John's families for our 2020 Vinnies Winter Appeal has been very much appreciated.
With thanks to your efforts we have been able to assist many families and homeless people within the Shoalhaven and Illawarra communities, supplying groceries, beanies, scarves, gloves and funds to purchase essential needs.
Some of the Beanies, Scarves and Gloves provided by Year 11
Year 12 provided milk for our Wednesday morning breakfasts which helped in raising over $930 for Vinnies.
In addition to thanking those who donated we wish to acknowledge the many students who contributed their time to assist in cooking and serving on Wednesday mornings including our Vinnies Youth serving fruit toast and our House Captains and House Groups for serving hot chocolate.
NOWRA PARISH
Click here to access Nowra Parish
Click here to access Nowra Parish Facebook Page
Mr David Comensoli
Religious Education Coordinator
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*
With the P&F being unable to organise events in the foreseeable future, the Committee would like to provide some brief details on how we continue to raise P&F funds and what these funds have provided for our school.
Unlike other schools, the St John’s P&F do not have fundraising events or raffles to raise money during the school year. The School Canteen is our only source of P&F income, importantly parents and carers volunteering their time helps with keeping the canteen running costs to a minimum. Expenditure of funds raised through the Canteen are detailed within the P&F Minutes uploaded to the SJE Website.
Some great examples of recent P&F expenditure include the recent purchase and installation of air-conditioning units and installation of solar panels which will subsidise school energy costs.
Mrs. Jacinta Davis
Keeping in touch with the Catholic Primary Schools within the Shoalhaven District.
Please select below links to the Shoalhaven Catholic Primary Schools websites.
SHOALHAVEN SUMMER SOCCER
Registrations are now open. For information please go to www.shoalhavenfootball.com.au . Visit the facebook page Shoalhaven Summer Soccer for updated details