It is with a mix of sadness and joy that our school community has farewelled our Year 12 students this week. Amongst them so many individuals have given us such special memories and as a group they are truly a gift to the school community.

They have applied themselves diligently with their studies which is clearly evident in the very mature approach to senior study. They have been outstanding leaders and this is clearly evident in their visible presence in all aspects of school life. They have lead many Social Justice campaigns and been proactive at engaging younger students. They have taken great initiative for the betterment of the school community. Some travelled to Timor Leste and we are aware that such experiences have major impacts on these young people. We are confident that they are now ready to be fine citizens prepared to step into their life beyond the school gates. Their contributions have made St John’s a better school community.

TERM 4 STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAY

Students commence school on Monday 14 October. For forward planning our Staff Development Day and Pupil Free Day will be in week 3 on Friday 1 November. Our first week back to school is an 'A week' timetable.

SUMMER UNIFORM

A reminder that Term 4 marks the change to summer uniform. We receive many comments on the outstanding manner in which the students from St John’s present in the Shoalhaven community. This is the result of the school working with the students to understand the importance of personal presentation and the family support for excellence in this area. It is essential that every student take pride in the wearing of the school uniform and wears it according to the guidelines indicated in the School Diary. All students should be in their correct summer uniform from the first day of Term 4.

A reminder that:

• Girls may wear their long pants as a part of the summer uniform.
• The girls’ skirts must reach the knee. Please check your skirt lengths during the holidays to ensure that they are at knee length.
• Girls have the option of socks or tights. Socks must extend above the ankle and shoes and be no higher than mid calf (no short sports socks).
• Boys wear a short sleeved shirt which is to be worn out. They have the option of pants or school shorts and long socks.
• School shoes are appropriate black leather lace-up polishable sturdy shoes.
• Hairstyles must be moderate and of a suitable length and natural colour as prescribed in diary. No facial hair. Hair should be tied back once at shoulder length.
• Only appropriate jewellery as prescribed in the school diary.
• Excessive make up: the current fashion of heavily shaping and colouring eyebrows is not to be worn at school.

If purchasing uniform items from Lowes, please mention the school name. We thank parents for their ongoing support in ensuring these guidelines are continually being met. Have a wonderful holiday break!

Mrs. Leonie Pearce