St John the Evangelist Catholic High School Nowra eNewsletter

YEAR 8 NEWS

WELCOME TO A NEW SCHOOL YEAR

A warm welcome to all Year 8 students and families as we settle into the new school year. We are looking forward to a fantastic year of learning, growth, and engagement.

I have had a name change! Last year, I was known as the Year Coordinator, but I am now called the Leader of Wellbeing - Year 8. This change reflects my role in supporting the overall wellbeing, engagement, and development of our students.

A warm welcome also to Mr Jamie Whatling, who is the Stage 4 Assistant Leader of Wellbeing. He will be working closely with our Year 7 and Year 8 students to provide additional support and guidance.

GETTING ORGANISED

To ensure each school day runs smoothly, we encourage students to develop the habit of packing their bags every night. This includes charging laptops, placing their student diary and hat in their bag, and organising all the books and gear needed for the following day. Your support at home is invaluable, and we encourage you to discuss this routine with your child. Finding a designated space at home for school essentials can also help keep everything organised and in check.

Students should now be aware, in collaboration with their PDHPE teachers, of the designated days for wearing their sports or normal uniform. We recommend displaying this information in a visible location at home for easy reference to ensure they are always prepared.

CARNIVALS

In Terms 1 and 2, Year 8 students will be actively participating in all three major sports carnivals: Swimming, Cross Country, and Athletics. It is essential that parents and carers provide consent for these events through Compass, as deadlines are now due. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated to ensure all students can take part in these exciting events.

INSTRUCTIONAL PRACTICE

Additionally, Year 8 has been selected as the target year group for instructional coaching to enhance learning growth and active engagement. This initiative aims to provide tailored support, strategies, and opportunities to help students reach their full potential in their studies. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on their learning journey.

WE ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD

Please encourage your child to speak with their PALS teacher if they are experiencing issues with personal matters, peer relationships, or class concerns. The PALS teachers are there to support students and will escalate concerns to me when required. If we don't know, we can't help. Often, students worry about 'snitching,' but we always have ways of addressing issues in a way that feels comfortable for everyone involved. If you have any concerns or uncertainties, please don’t hesitate to call the office and ask to speak with your child’s PALS teacher. They can work with you to find a solution and the best way forward to support your child’s wellbeing and success.

2025 YEAR 8 PALS TEACHERS

Benedict	Ms Angelina Ramognini/Ms Ashleigh Boreland	Mr Todd Wilson
Chisholm	Mr Mark Malady	Ms Kylie Hetherington
MacKillop	Ms Abbey Simis	Mr David Comensoli
McCabe	Mr George Kyriacou	Ms Ashlee Berryman
Polding	Mr Jacob Stephenson	Mr Ziggy Wolinski
Purcell	Mr Denis Smith	Ms Breanna McGaughey

Thank you for your ongoing support. Myself and the team look forward to working together to make this a successful year for Year 8!

'With Jesus, we can reach the highest of heights'

Ms Abbey Simis

Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing