Welfare

Thank you to everyone for all your effort and support in Term 1.

To help prepare for a successful Term 2, I would like to speak about some student data. From our Wellio and Pulse platform, it is apparent that students are concerned about their health and life balance. This theme was common across all year levels. If I had to highlight one area that the students wish to improve, it would be the amount and quality of sleep. Students reported a lack of sleep, not eating breakfast and not having time or energy to do the things required of them throughout a school day - including homework at night.

Below are some points that you may like to discuss with your children. Wellbeing staff will be addressing this in classes next term.

To achieve a healthy life balance, students should strive to have a balanced diet, get regular exercise, get plenty of sleep, and manage their time wisely.

A student’s diet should be balanced and include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Additionally, a balanced diet should include plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks like soft drinks.

Exercise is another crucial part of a healthy life balance. Students should aim to get at at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day. This can include activities like jogging, cycling, swimming, or playing sports.

Getting enough rest is also important for maintaining a healthy balance. Students should aim to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. A good sleep routine can help students feel more energised and focused during the day. Use of devices and social media is having an enormous impact on students' sleep. Teenagers may need your help in putting firm boundaries around this issue.

Managing one’s time effectively is another important aspect of a healthy life balance. Activities such as mindful meditation, yoga, and setting aside time for hobbies can help reduce stress and create a greater sense of balance and wellbeing.

By prioritising a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and good time management, students can achieve a healthy life balance that will ensure their overall wellbeing while they work to achieve their academic goals.

I wish all families a relaxing holiday with their loved ones and look forward to a positive and productive Term 2.

    Louise Shields

    Leader of Student Welfare

Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Term 4 has been an exciting and full term. The students have settled in well to their learning groups and there have been so many activities and opportunities available.

One of my favourite activities is inviting in the Year 6 students for a taster day at the College. The idea of the day is to introduce the students to high school and to our wonderful community of Mt St Patrick College. The students participated in Science and Technology activities, played games and had tours of the College with the Senior students. I am always so proud to hear our senior students guiding the students around and communicating their view of college life. Our vertical house structure has provided the platform for the relationships between all year levels to thrive.

Last night we conducted tours for parents around the college and then an information night for prospective parents. At question time I was asked what makes Mt St Patrick College different to the other schools in the area. My answer was that all schools have their strengths and weaknesses. Our strength is our culture and our reputation. We have a history of high expectations and academic success. A testament to the college is that the majority of our teachers send their children to our school. However, many teachers from other schools also send their students to Mt St Pats. We have 18 teachers on staff that are ex-students. They believe in the program. It is a compliment that so many of our parents are also ex-students.

I wish all the Year 6 students luck in selecting their school for high school and thank them for being so happy and engaged on the taster day. I have to admit I probably enjoy it as much as they do.

Have a lovely restful break and I look forward to Term 2 at “The best school in the Universe”

    Narelle Sherrah

    Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Community News

College News

Assistant Principal - Mission

$1000 donated to Project Compassion

Today $1000 was forwarded to the Catholic charity Caritas for their Lenten fundraiser called Project Compassion. As the name suggests, aid is provided to seed projects (in Australia and overseas) which will benefit the local community and be sustainable.

Staff and students made monetary donations into the Project Compassion boxes in homerooms extra funds were raised on our St Patrick’s Day celebration day with the sale of ‘lime spiders’ at lunch and gold coin donations by students for wearing green mufti. Thanks to parents for your assistance in providing coins for the student’s donations!   

Catholic Schools Week 7 – 14^th April 2024  

This week we have celebrated Catholic Schools Week with various activities and celebrations. The theme for this year was ‘Innovation and Faith’ and we spent time talking about the ‘educational’ experience at MSPC to Year 6 students and their parents making the big decision about what high school to attend in 2025.

There was a very informative Parent Information Evening on Wednesday 10^th April and guided tours of the College run by senior students and staff on Wednesday and Thursday 11^th April.

Staff will enjoy a Special Morning Tea today and students will have lunchtime treats to celebrate Catholic Schools Week

Anzac Day

Once again Anzac Day falls at the end of the school holidays, on the Thursday before school resumes for MSPC and MSPP students on Tuesday 30^th April.  For many years College students and staff have marched proudly in the Murwillumbah Parade from the Post Office to the Cenotaph near Murwillumbah Civic Centre. This year the College Year 12 leaders are conducting the ceremony of behalf of the RSL Sub-branch and the College Band and Drumline will be leading the diggers.

I would encourage as many as possible students to attend the Murwillumbah Parade and ceremony in their full dress uniform, including the College hat which will protect faces from the sun or collect the raindrops! We will meet at the Murwillumbah Post Office at 10am ready for the parade which begins at 10.30am followed by the ceremony at the Cenotaph which usually concludes by 11.40am.

Term 2 Staff Development Days

Monday 29^th April is a Staff Development Day.

Tuesday 28^th May is the Staff Proclaim Day where staff from all the Murwillumbah

 Catholic schools are required to be at St Joseph’s College, Banora Point for the day.

Friday 5^th July is a Staff Spirituality Day.

On all 3 days students are not required to be in attendance at the College.

Advance Notice: Tell Them From Me Surveys       

In Weeks 2 – 4 our school will be inviting students, teachers and parents to provide feedback on their experience of the College using an independent research company, The Learning Bar, which specialises in online school-based surveys. The one being used is ‘Tell Them From Me’(TTFM) and forms an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process. The surveys are anonymous and take approximately 20 mins to complete.

A URL link will be sent to all parents in Week 2 next term and the survey window will remain open until Friday 24^th May. All students will complete their surveys during school time on Thursday 9^th and Wednesday 15^th May.

Date Saver: Mother’s Day Breakfast     Friday 10^th May

A special Mother’s Day breakfast is being held at the Gilbey Hall from 7 – 8.30am on Friday 10^th May. All mothers and grandmothers are welcome to attend with their student/s. An RSVP form will be sent out in Week 1 to gain information for catering purposes by the Hospitality Department who will be operating their ‘Coffee Cart’ facilities and breakfast food options. We look forward to seeing you there!

     Mary-Anne McShane
     Assistant Principal: Mission

MINISTRY

Year 10 Retreat

Last Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Year 10 students travelled to Tyalgum Ridge Retreat for their long-awaited Retreat. Both students and staff had a great time, despite the heavy rain, getting to know each other better and exploring their faith. 

Our experience during the Retreat was a great learning curve. Our time here was packed with fun cabin groups, small groups, spiritual experiences and a wide range of activities. The first day consisted of setting up and our introduction for the few days ahead. A meditation set us up to relax for the night's activity.

There were lots of personal family experiences that meant so much to all of us. The final day we had a liturgy which summed up all of our spiritual experiences. The food was great and by far the most relaxing time was the meditation and time spent with friends.

This retreat allowed us to build relationships and connect spiritually with God. As a year group we are all very grateful for this opportunity and we have all learnt and grown closer from this experience.

From "The Sheep" (One of the 12 small discussion groups).

Transitus

On Monday and Tuesday of this week 11 Year 7 students attended the Transitus Experience at Camp Drewe in beautiful Lennox Head. Students explored their faith through a variety of activities, games, prayer and small group activities. Students had a great time mixing and chatting with students from other schools in our diocese and eating some great food, whilst having fun! Thanks to Ella Bressan, Eliza Dowling, Evie Edwards, Jonah Fuller, Evie Gray, Marlin Lynch, Chase Mathewson, Mila Matson-Warren, Indy Meyer, Catherine Wemm and Sennen Wetherelt accompanied by Miss Molloy.

“I really liked meeting new people and having fun. The food was pretty good and the RMA's were really nice”.

“I enjoyed the group activities and experiencing some different prayer types”.

Congratulations!

Every year in Term 3 students from Year 9-12 get the opportunity to attend the IGNITE conference in Brisbane which is a four day festival with a focus on Catholic faith, ministry and guest speakers. Last year, one of our current Year 10 students Olivia Bagnall attended a workshop at Ignite for dance. Since then Olivia has been selected to participate in the dance portion of this year’s event in Brisbane and is waiting to hear about an invitation to Sydney which is absolutely amazing! Congratulations Olivia, we are very proud of you.

“I was given the opportunity to audition for the Ignite Dance team for Sydney and Brisbane. This audition automatically put everybody in the opening sequences for Friday and Saturday. The audition was for the following nights. The audition piece was a contemporary dance which showed the dancers skills and abilities. On Sunday 7th April, I auditioned at Centenary Dance Academy. Emails will be sent out to the dancers who were picked for the team next week. Dancer handbooks have also been given to all dancers with rehearsal dates, always on Sundays, leading up to Ignite”.

Thank you!

A big thank you to all those students and staff who have attended Ministry events this term or contributed to our masses and liturgies. It's been a big term starting with Year 12 Retreat, LEAD, Year 11 Retreat Day, St Patrick’s Day, Nagle and Romero House Mass, Easter Liturgy, Year 10 Retreat, Transitus and Minyma.

Most recently, thank you to the Year 10 Retreat teachers, especially Mrs Angela Finkel and Mrs Cathy Cripps who ran our wonderful Year 10 Retreat at our new venue Tyalgum Ridge Retreat. Although it was a bit wet, the students and staff had a great time. Thank you also to Miss Mary-Anne McShane, Mrs Lisa East, Mr Brett McCullouch, Miss Milly Keogh, Mr Blake Reynolds, Mr Brendon Clarke, Mr Rick Van Den Driest, Miss Emma McHugh, Mrs Anne Edwards, Miss Layla Marr and Mr Thomas McGhee.

As always, thank you to Fr Peter, Mary-Ann Thackray, Barbara Grant and Beth Gorton in the Parish Office for all their support and help throughout the term.

Prayer for the end of term

As we come to the end of another term, let us pause to give thanks for the journey we have shared. May the lessons learned and the memories made enrich our lives and strengthen our community. We pray for a restful break for all and look forward to returning refreshed and ready for the adventures that lie ahead. Amen

Have a wonderful and restful holiday.

God bless,

    Grace Molloy

    Leader of Evangelisation

Principal

Well, it's the end of a very busy and long Term One, but also a very joyous and fruitful term as well. I spoke to the staff at a briefing during the week thanking them for the wonderful welcome that they have provided me as incoming principal to the school, and I'd like to extend that gratitude out to the students and families as well. I feel very much part of the MSPC community and thank you for everyone's lovely welcome. It really is a remarkable community and I have a real appreciation of the great strength this community has in all areas within the school. I am really looking forward to working more closely with you all over the years ahead.

It is Catholic Education Week this week and we are reminded of the many gifts Catholic education has brought our wider Australian and local community. From an outstanding reputation for educating young people, it is the extras that Catholic education brings that stand out. The focus on spiritual formation, the wellbeing focus, opportunities for co-curricular in sport, arts, all shape our young people into tomorrow's promising and bright future. As part of the celebrations, we had a number of activities, but a key part for us was our Yr 7 2025 information evening where we have the opportunity to share and reflect on all the amazing things we do here at MSPC that make an outstanding education possible for all of our students from Yr 7 to 12, led so capably and wisely by our staff. We are truly blessed to have them as leaders within our community.

Have a lovely two week break, hopefully there is plenty of time for rest, fun, rejuvenation and joy. See you next term.

    Gavin Dykes
    Principal

Faculty News

LEGAL STUDIES

From 18th to 20th March, Ms. Zoe Boxshall accompanied Amelia Keyes, a Year 12 Legal Studies student, to the National Constitutional Convention (NCC) in Canberra. The NCC draws top Legal Studies students from across the country to debate and discuss constitutional matters. The topic for the 2024 NCC was 'Should Section 96 of the Constitution be amended to decentralise the power of the Commonwealth?'

We had the privilege of hearing from many distinguished speakers, including The Hon. Jason Clare MP (Minister of Education), Senator Andrew McLachlan (Deputy President of the Senate), Professor Kim Rubenstein (University of Canberra), Professor Emeritus Anne Twomey (University of Sydney), Dr. Andrew Branfield (Parliamentary Library), and Professor Alan Fenna (Curtin University). The students participated in various Working Group sessions, Soapbox sessions, and a mock referendum conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission.

Additional notable experiences included an Official Reception at Government House hosted by His Excellency General the Hon. David Hurley and Her Excellency Mrs. Linda Hurley, an Official Dinner at the National Press Club, a 'Meet Your Politician' session at Parliament House, and attendance at Question Time.

Both students and teachers had a marvellous time engaging with all aspects of the Constitution and politics in our nation's capital!

    Zoe Boxshall - Legal Studies Teacher

INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY

MUSIC

Update from the Music Department

As the term comes to an end we would like to celebrate the hard work shown by students over the past term and their commitment to both personal musical improvement and developing as a collective within small groups, choir and band. We would especially like to thank those who sang, played or helped set up for the St Patrick's Day Mass, your efforts are very much appreciated. These students were:

Choir- Matilda Patterson, Roxy Keogh, River McLean-Reid, Sophia Drew, Yashika Hurry, Hazel Egan, Shanti-Rose Smyth, Stephany Joseph, Raphael Connor, Maddison Shackell, Isabelle Biersteker, Hannah Millar, Bryce Wilson and Emily Simpson

Band- Felix Kos

Entertainment- Amanita Barnaby-Bowe, Taj Ruddy and Maya Rogers

The Spes Mea Choir has now shifted focus towards expanding their repertoire of Pop Songs in preparation for the upcoming CAPA Showcase in Term 2. New members are always welcome if this is of interest to you, feel free to come along for some lunchtime snacks and fun!

The College Band and Drumline have also been working extremely hard under the guidance of Brad Patterson, Mr Rice and Mrs Rennes-Nadal, to finalize their pieces for the ANZAC Day March. Anzac Day falls on the second Thursday of the up-coming school holidays, so a big thank you to families who have organised their holidays around this event.

Reminder of College Instrumental Hire

Here at MSPC, we offer a variety of instruments that can be loaned out to students for a small fee. We currently have 2x brand new trumpets, saxophones, flutes, clarinets and a violin. If students or parents are interested please contact Kaitlyn Rennes-Nadal for more information. 

A NOTE FROM THE SCIENCE DESK

MAY IS SKIN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

Skin Cancer awareness month is a campaign that takes place annually each May. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the dangers of unprotected sun exposure, and educate the public about the ways to help prevent skin cancer.

UV exposure from the sun is one of the main causes of skin cancer and also one of the most preventable. This campaign hopes to reduce instances of skin cancer and increase the likelihood of early detection through education.

During the month of May, special awareness classes will be held for Year 7.  These classes will take place in their Science lessons and we hope to raise awareness of the need to cover up and wear sunscreen.  Parents who have been affected by skin cancer are encouraged to get involved by sharing their stories on the Mt St Pats Instagram or Facebook page.   If you would like to share your story please email me at jackie.tilsley@lism.catholic.edu.au

Also in May, Melanoma Patients Australia is launching a public awareness campaign for World Melanoma Month in collaboration with The Global Melanoma Coalition. There is an urgent need to empower all Australians to know their skin, and to identify the early signs of melanoma and when to seek medical help. 

Melanoma is one of the few cancers we can often see for ourselves.  That means it’s in our power to catch it early – and if we do that, we stand a better chance of beating it.  So, as we emerge from the COVID pandemic and consider what our ‘new normal’ looks like, let’s all make sure it includes a 10-minute monthly skin check.

Follow the link below to watch a video explaining how to check your skin for melanoma.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYA6yl_0E80&t=7s

This video covers the ABCD&E warning signs of melanoma and the seven steps for checking the body. Pauses between the seven steps have been included in the video so that the viewer can simply take their phone into a bathroom, hit play, and follow the instructions in real-time.

Please remember that the chances of beating melanoma are hugely increased if it is detected and treated early. But what more can be done? In the first couple of weeks in May, Year 12 Biology students will be showcasing awareness of skin cancer and melanoma by presenting on an assembly and wearing mufti that reflects the ‘Slip, Slop, Slap and Slide’ campaign.

    Jackie Tilsley

Exciting Science Adventures:

Year 7O class discovers forces with Mark Rober Build Box!

In the bustling classrooms of MSPC, something extraordinary is happening in the realm of science education. Students of Year 7 are diving headfirst into the captivating world of forces, all thanks to an innovative teaching approach featuring the Mark Rober Build Box.

Mrs Frankham’s Class discovering forces using the Mark Rober build boxes.

7M: The Balancing Man!: Mr Bunney

7M challenged each other to balance a cork and nail on a piece of string in their investigations of balanced and unbalanced forces!

Year 7C: Miss Lacey

 Studying non-contact forces and demonstrating the effect of static electricity using the Van De Graaff generator.

11 Biology:

Students have started investigating the impact of environment on species diversity. They have modelled different “beaks” using different implements and how effective they were in capturing hard food (skittles) and soft food (sultanas) to survive.

    Lauren Frankham

    Science Teacher

FROM THE SPORTS DESK

Ballina District Under 16 Cricket Premiers

Mount Saint Patrick College students win U16 Grand Final. 

In a brilliant end to the season Billy Smith (c), George Fisher (wk), Sanjay Nix, Ned Serne, Toby Neilson, Dougall Hughes, Hugo Portus, Cian Nugent and Lachlan Adams finished in full stride winning both Semi-Final and Grand-Final without needing their number 6 batsman to take the crease. 

Whilst George Fisher deservedly won man of the match in the Grand Final, every player on the team made important contributions to achieving this amazing result. 

CONGRATULATIONS MURWILLUMBAH GREEN!!!

    Mr Corey Nix

DIOCESAN SWIMMING CHAMPIONS

Our talented swimming team showed off their skill in the recent Dio Swimming Carnival in Port Macquarie. Below are 4 of our athletes who really excelled:

Timothy Wellm U14 Age champion

Willa Hoffman U15 Runner Up Age champion

Alex Seamer U15 Runner Up Age champion

Skooda Walle U12 Runner Up Age champion

NSWCCC SWIMMING (OUTSTANDING RESULTS)

Our talented swimmers travelled to Sydney and competed at Homebush on Wednesday 3rd April.

The event was livestreamed and you can check out all 7.5hrs live streamed here: 

NSWCCC Swimming Championships 2024

Outstanding results

Tim Wellm Under 14

50m Butterfly 28.69 - 1st

50m Backstroke 30.88 - 1st

100m Backstroke 1.07.41 - 1st

100m Butterfly 1.03.56 - 4th

Alex Wellm Under 16

100m Breastroke 1.13.04 - 1st

50m Breastroke 32.42 - 2nd

4x50m Medley relay 1.59.59 - 4th

4x50m Freestyle relay 1.48.02 - 7th

Skooda Walle Under 12

50m Backstroke 42.84 - 5th

50m Freestyle 34.77 - 11th

Jack Bourke Under 16

4x50m Freestyle relay1.59.59 - 4th

4x50m Freestyle relay 1.48.02 - 7th

50m Butterfly 29.06 - 7th

100m Backstroke 1.13.25 - 7th

Jack French Open

4x50m Freestyle relay 1.48.02 - 7th

4x50m Medley relay 1.59.59 - 4th

400m Freestyle 4.36.97 - 5th

200m Freestyle 2.07.88 - 6th

Alex Seamer Under 15

4x50m Medley relay 1.59.59 - 4th

4x50m Freestyle relay 1.48.02 - 7th

100m Breastroke 1.24.05 - 7th

50m Breastroke 37.49 - 9th

50m freestyle 28.28 - 17th

Willa Hoffman Under 15

50m Butterfly 31.47 - 5th

100m Butterfly 1.12.57 - 5th

100m Freestyle 1.06.19 - 8th

Each and every swimmer was only one or two places off getting through to NSW All Schools Swimming Champs! And each swimmer swam PB’s in every race!

Massive congratulations to Tim and Alex Wellm as they both made it through to the NSW All Schools Champs - Tim with a massive four first places: 50m and 100m butterfly, 50m and 100m freestyle. Alex first in 100m breaststroke and second in 50m breaststroke.

The Open 4 x 50m Medley Relay team were awesome - we had a much younger team as three of the boys raced up (Alex Seamer 15, Jack Bourke 16, Alex Wellm 16 and Jack French 17). It was a fantastic race to watch with each of our team stepping up and just missed out on going through to All Schools finishing in fourth place by just half a second. They are all looking forward to doing the relay again next year!

It was awesome to see the Mt St Pat’s kids supporting each other throughout the day and all swimming so well!

    Mrs Julie French (Parent)

ENVISION HEALTH - MURWILLUMBAH PROMOTION

ENVISION HEALTH: There is currently a member discount at Envision Health and Fitness as a celebration of their renovation, bringing the price down to $10.95 a week. They are paying $50 if you refer someone to join. If you join, tell them MSPC referred you and all monies will go to a College fundraiser.

WEEKLY SPORT PARTICIPATION

There has been a recent trend within the student body to be non-active in weekly sport sessions. This has been highlighted by recent visits to the pool to conduct swimming sessions. During our warmer months, spaces at the pool are scarce and we are extremely lucky to be able to access this facility which is within walking distance from school. It is a tremendous shame that a large number of students are providing weak excuses or not bringing swimmers in an attempt to avoid this option. I am asking for parental support on this matter and encourage your child to be active during weekly sporting opportunities.

DIO RUGBY LEAGUE

MSPC had 4 students travel to South West Rocks and compete across two days of training and competition. From all reports our students performed extremely well and were unlucky to just miss out on further representative honours.

DIOCESAN TOUCH FOOTBALL

Earlier in the term these two girls Tanesa Browning and Ayla East were selected in the Lismore Under 15 and Open Girls Touch Football teams respectively. They competed this week on the Central Coast in the New South Wales CCC Championships. Both girls played extremely well and had a number of tough tight games, both the Under 15 and Open teams just missed making the semifinals.

Well done girls!

BILL TURNER CUP / TROPHY SOCCER

Unfortunately, the “Rain Bomb” last week caused these two games (girls v Kingy High and boys against Tweed River) to be postponed. Reports next term. Games are due to be played (weather permitting) on Thursday and Friday, this week.

ATHLETICS SEASON UNDERWAY

Regular readers of “From the sports desk” would be familiar with two outstanding athletes at MSPC, Chloe Martin (Yr 12) and Erin Lanyon (Yr 10).

Both girls once again will be traversing the countryside and travelling to Adelaide these holidays for the Australian Junior Athletics Championships April 15 - 18. In what could be an early state of origin clash, Chloe will be representing Queensland and Erin representing NSW.

Chloe will compete in her favourite 400m hurdles and Erin in both Long and Triple Jump. Good luck girls. 

TERM 2 OVERVIEW (Weeks 1-5)

Our winter sports really start to increase during Term 2. Students have been training for many of them already and compass events for the events in Week 2 & 3 have been sent out already. An overview of important dates follows;

Week 1 Wednesday 1st May Q Schools AFL Juniors - Byron Bay

               Thursday 2nd May NRCC Rugby League - Casino

               Friday 3rd May, College Cross Country - Murwillumbah Showgrounds

               Friday 3rd May Q Schools AFL Seniors - Byron Bay

Week 2 Wednesday  8th May Tobin Shield Open Rugby League

Week 3 Tuesday 14th May NRCC Hockey - Lismore

               Thursday 16th May Jamie Chapman Cup - Murwillumbah

               Friday 17th May Diocesan Cross Country - Grafton

Week 4 Monday 20th - Thursday 223rd NSWCCC Hockey - Bathurst

              Wednesday 22nd May Cochrane Cup U14 Rugby League

Week 5 Thursday 30th May U13,15, Open Country Cup Rugby League - Sth Tweed

    Tim Whitney

    Sports Coordinator

Curriculum

Week 8 has been a busy week at the College. Years 8, 9 and 10 have completed an array of formative and summative assessment tasks and have begun working on new topics in various subject areas. Feedback from formative and summative assessment provides students with an important opportunity to reflect on what they have done well and areas they could improve on to progress their knowledge, skills and understanding. A lot is gained from these valuable experiences.

The Year 11 Assessment Block has been scheduled to begin on 22/03/24 and will conclude on 28/03/24. Year 11 classes will not run during the assessment week. Year 11 students need only attend school to complete their assessments during this assessment block. They are required to sign in and out of the College at the front office daily.

The Year 12 Assessment Block will begin on Wednesday 03/04/24 and will conclude on Tuesday 09/04/24. Teachers have been impressed by the calm approach and focussed preparation of Year 12 for their upcoming assessments.  This is a quality that will serve them well in their HSC. Year 12 classes will not run during the assessment week. Students need only attend school to complete their assessments during this assessment block. They are required to sign in and out of the College at the front office daily.

The Assessment Policy is detailed on the front page of the Assessment Portal which can be accessed on the MSPC Moodle Page. Information Handbooks are on the Portal.

If a student is sick and unable to complete an assessment on the due date, Years 7, 8 and 9 require a letter from a parent / carer or email to the class teacher, detailing the student’s circumstances for non-completion of an assessment task.

For Years 9 Accelerated, 10, 11 and 12 a medical practitioner is required to complete the MSPC Assessment Variation Illness Form. A copy of this document can be found on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal.

Below is a summary of assessment tasks for Weeks 9 and 10:

    Jo McDonald

    Leader of Curriculum

Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Mount St Patrick College is a great school because we have dedicated teachers who ensure that they are fully informed about current curriculum initiatives.

This week the Literacy team: Mr Simon Holder, Katie Pinkstone, Joanne McDonald and myself attended the Catholic Schools Association’s Writing Symposium in Sydney. The conference focused on the importance of developing competent, confident, independent writers and the importance of literacy in the new curriculum reform. Various presenters discussed the need for students to read more and to physically write rather than working constantly on computers. The physical process of writing assists in learning. The syllabus will see the return of teaching grammar explicitly. Mount St Patrick College have been devoting our professional development time to literacy over the last two years as a member of the Lismore Diocesan Learning Collaborative which centres around the work of Dr Lynn Sharratt.

Katie Pinkstone, our Leader of Learning English and Joanne McDonald, Leader of Curriculum, were then joined by English teacher and librarian Susan Britten to visit Shore School on the Harbour in Sydney. Shore was very generous with setting up a networking event where both schools shared their experiences and processes in creating successful English departments. We thank Mrs Britten for organising the visit and look forward to hearing about the learning.

Mount St Patrick College achieves exceptional English results. In the 2024 HSC we were ranked 31st in the state for English. However, we are always seeking to improve for the benefit of our amazing students.

Solomon Islands Immersion Program

The Immersion students are continuing with their fundraising ventures. On Wednesday at the St Patrick’s Day celebrations the students ran the Bunney’s Sausage sizzle and raised $1500. This is going towards educational supplies for our sister school in the Solomon Islands and the purchase of Solar products for the “Old Nuns” in Visale nursing home.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the fun St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The inaugural staff v students cricket games were fantastic fun and contributed to our school culture along with raising funds to help those less fortunate.

    Narelle Sherrah

    Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Community News

College News

Thank you again to the staff and students who entered the second annual Lucan and Friends Of The Pound Pet Photo Competition. Entries were exceptional and we cannot wait to see what photos you have in store for the competition next year. Get snapping!!!

Please don’t forget, FOTP needs PEOPLE POWER! Please follow and like them on Facebook and Instagram. They need as many people as possible, seeing and sharing the weekly posts of cats and dogs available, in need of a new home.

Website https://friendsofthepound.com/  

FB https://www.facebook.com/FriendsofthePound 

INSTA https://www.instagram.com/friendsofthepound/ 

BEST IN NATURE

BEST-DRESSED COUPLE

BEST SUNSET

BEST TRICK

BEST MULTIPLE PET

FUNNIEST PET

CUTEST PET

BEST 0.5

    Susan Waters

    (Leader of Wellbeing, Lucan)

INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY

Assistant Principal - Mission

Romero and Nagle Parish Mass     Sunday 17^th March (St Patrick’s Day)

Many families attended a very busy 9am Parish Mass on Sunday 17^th March (the real St Patrick’s Day) which included the baptism of an infant; acknowledgement of primary students preparing for their First Reconciliation and presentations by MSPC Romero (purple) and Nagle (gold) Houses.

Following mass there was plenty of purple, gold and green on show in the Learning Hub (Parish Hall) where everyone enjoyed green donuts, cupcakes and lots of other delicious non-green items for morning tea. Thanks to all those students, staff and parents who attended the mass and those provided the morning tea.

MSPC St Patrick’s Day Celebrations          Wednesday 20^th March

Wednesday 20^th March was a great day for the Irish. We had 9.30am Mass, celebrated by Fr Peter Wood, followed by some St Patrick’s Day traditions: inducting students to the Wall of Excellence, adding staff names to the 20-year Staff Commitment Honour Board, as-well-as some Irish dancing.

Alexander and Tim Wellm were inducted into the Wall of Excellence for their prowess in swimming in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

Mr Tim Whitney was named on the Staff Commitment Honour Board in Presentation House for 20 years of service. 

At lunch there were men and women’s staff versus students’ cricket matches organized by Mr Nix, and Mr Bunney’s BBQ and drinks stall which raised funds for materials for use during the Solomon Islands Immersion in August this year. Thanks to parents for providing students with the cash to purchase their BBQ lunch and drinks.

Project Compassion

Thanks also to parents for providing your students with money to donate to Caritas during Lent. The Projection Compassion boxes were overflowing following the gold coin donation for wearing green mufti clothes on Wednesday 20^th March. The sale of ‘lime spiders’ at lunchtime was also well-supported and added $400 to our Project Compassion total.

Holy Week

Yesterday was Palm Sunday which begins Holy Week in the Christian calendar. Jesuit priest Fr Andrew Hamilton says that Palm Sunday stands at the intersection of God’s world and of the human world.

For many Australians Palm Sunday marks the beginning of preparations for the winter sport season. But for Christians it marks the beginning of a week dedicated to reflection on Jesus. It culminates in Jesus’ death on Good Friday and His rising on Easter Sunday.

Seen through the Christian belief that we are saved through Jesus’ death and rising, Palm Sunday stands at the intersection of God’s world – one of justice and goodness – and of the human world with its brutal political realities. Palm Sunday mocks the pretensions of power that consider only the expedience of its actions and not the human reality of the people affected by them.

We will be having a Holy Week Liturgy at 11.30am on 28^th March which is Holy Thursday. I would encourage families to try and attend one of the three ceremonies of the Triduum at any Catholic Church – the Mass of the Last Supper on Thursday 28^th March at 7pm; Good Friday prayers at 3pm on 29^th March and the Easter Vigil ceremony of light on Saturday 30the March commencing at 7pm.

Catholic Schools Week 2024  

This week is being celebrated in the last week of this term. The theme for 2024 is

‘Innovation and Faith’ and we will be hosting various activities.

Anzac Day

Once again Anzac Day falls at the end of the school holidays, on the Thursday before school resumes for MSPC and MSPP students on Tuesday 30^th April.  For many years College students and staff have marched proudly in the Murwillumbah Parade from the Post Office to the cenotaph near Murwillumbah Civic Centre. This year the College Year 12 leaders have been asked to conduct the ceremony of behalf of the RSL Sub-branch. 

I would encourage as many as possible students to attend the Murwillumbah Parade and ceremony in their full dress uniform, including the College hat which will protect faces from the sun or collect the raindrops! The College Drumline and Band will accompany the march. Everyone will meet at 10am at Murwillumbah Post Office ready for a 10.30am March.

     Mary-Anne McShane
     Assistant Principal: Mission

Principal

At the most recent assembly I spoke about International Women's Day and the significant role women play in the lives of our immediate family, Mount St Patrick, and the wider world community.

Firstly, I've spoken of how important our mothers are in our own growth and development and, significantly, how important my own mother was, and how she raised five kids in very modest circumstances and gave us all an amazing upbringing.

Next, I spoke about the amazing women that helped form this school, going right back to Nano Nagle. I focused on her inspirational role in rebelling against the political systems at the time in Ireland, where Catholic education was outlawed, and when she stood up to provide Catholic education for primary and secondary students. She did this even when there was a risk of significant penalties, even jail. Her sacrifice was further echoed in the roles of the Presentation Sisters when they embarked on a journey from Ireland.  They left their families behind, usually not to see them again, and off they went to live in the harsh climes of Australia.

How amazing and inspirational those women were to make that sacrifice and then to endure the hardships of remote places within Australia. They set up schools, both primary and secondary, to educate the poor Catholic families at the time. Mount St Patrick College is one of the beneficiaries of this sacrifice, when in 1926 the Presentation Sisters founded this school. The amazing leadership from women has continued all the way through to this current day.

I mentioned the wider role of schools: our school leadership team, that is made up of all women other than myself; the amazing Ms. McShane and Mrs. Sherrah, who live and breathe this school community and are amazing beacons for this wider community; and the students within it. All of our female staff, teachers and ancillary are amazing examples of this legacy.

Finally, I reminded students of the need to respect and admire the contribution of our staff, in particular our female staff. We should do everything we can to ensure our staff feel safe and respected in their workplace; allowing them to engage in their day-to-day work with a sense of pride, as the remarkable women amongst us now and in honour of those who went before them.

    Gavin Dykes
    Principal

Faculty News

VISUAL ARTS

On Friday 8^th March, 8 students from the College attended a Senior Enrichment Day for Visual Arts at the Tweed River Art Gallery. The day was organised by the Gallery, for senior students from local high schools who are deserving and talented and who would benefit from expanding their knowledge and skills in Visual Arts. Year 11 students Sophie Forsyth, Mikaylah de Jonge, Haylen Fox-Duong, Ulani Uhlmann, Maia Fergus-Mackie, Isabelle Levings and Maya Bowling and Year 10 student, Lucy Grant, represented Mt St Patrick College for the day.

Students worked with artist-educator Mirra Whale, discussing her work and artmaking process. Mirra shared her expertise in drawing as part of this one-day intensive workshop, focused on contemporary drawing practice. Students created charcoal drawings on the day with instruction and exercises delivered by the artist. Whale discussed her art practice and shared with the students her insights about working in the arts and her career. Students also had the opportunity to discuss their own ideas and creative practice with the artist. We are very fortunate at the College to have a thriving local art community and world class Gallery that offers our young artists these worthwhile and valuable experiences.

    Clara Cahill

    LOL: Creative Arts

A NOTE FROM THE SCIENCE DESK

Year 7C Joseph Dufty and Matilda Orford

 Method writing bump it up activity. Working together to grade method samples.

9 Accelerated Science

Introducing Motion in their Physics Unit by measuring the speed of their vortex throwing.

11 Biology

Investigating the structure and function and cell organelles and the cell membrane using a variety of student constructed models.

Year 12 Earth and Environmental Science

Year 12 Earth students are currently studying natural hazards including volcanoes and earthquakes. Here, students are participating in a virtual volcano simulation where they are interpreting data from tiltmeters, seizometers and water quality. This is needed to inform the eruption centre to make a decision about the need for an evacuation.

10Accel/11 Chemistry

Year 10 Accelerated and Year 11 Chemistry students beginning their Introduction to the Quantitative Chemistry unit by demonstrating the Law of Conservation of Mass! (left - Stephanie Mayne, Riley Monaghan, right - Hannah Windhorst).

TAS MARINE STUDIES:

Year 11 Marine studies are completing their PADI Open Water Dive certification. Pete from Tweed Sea Sports was at the College last week to go through the final part of their theory lessons. Next stop- underwater!!!

    Lauren Frankham

    Science Teacher

HSIE

Exploring the Ancient Past

Our Year 8 classes have been studying the Ancient Past. This topic explores the development of civilisations and how history is studied today. Last week students honed their archaeological skills through a unique and delicious activity: cookie excavation! Our young archaeologists carefully picked through biscuit "sediment" to uncover hidden treasures of chocolate chips within.

This activity wasn't just about satisfying a sweet tooth: it was a hands-on way to learn about the ancient past. As students excavated their cookies using toothpicks, they mapped their finds on a grid just as archaeologists mark out their finds.

The students discovered that archaeology can require very intricate and detailed work, and that it is not always easy to excavate sites and leave them exactly as they were found. 

Over the next week Year 8 will be wrapping up this topic and commence their study into Ancient Egypt. 

Australian Geography Competition

The Australian Geography Competition is a contest for Australian secondary school students, assessing their geographical knowledge and skills. The Competition aims to encourage student interest in geography and to reward student excellence.

The HSIE department invites all students in Years 7 to 10 to enter the Australian Geography Competition, which will be held online in May and has an entry fee of $5. The Competition consists of mainly multiple-choice questions testing geographical knowledge and skills. All participants receive results and certificates (top 1% in Australia, high distinction, distinction, credit or participation). 

To enter, students can provide consent and pay via Compass. Entries close on Friday 29th March, 2024 (which is Good Friday!). For further information please speak to your Geography or History teacher, or contact Ms Blazek.

Australian History Competition

Challenge yourself!

Join 34,000 students Australia-wide to test your critical thinking skills.

It’s not a memory test. No prior history knowledge required!

Get practice at sitting exams and a certificate showing your level of achievement to include in your high school portfolio.

Entry fee is $8, takes 45 minutes to complete. Each student will receive a question paper, a source booklet and a computer answer sheet. There will be 50 multiple choice questions graded from easy to challenging and catering to a range of abilities. There will be a variety of questions, with the primary focus on skills and understanding.

To enter, students can provide consent and pay via Compass. Entries close 29 March, 2024.

For further information please speak to your Geography or History teacher, or contact Ms Blazek.

    Aimee Blazek

    Leader of Learning: HSIE

FROM THE SPORTS DESK

MSPC SPORT GOOGLE CLASSROOM

Last week the College launched a google classroom dedicated to sport. It contains all the representative sporting options available at MSPC. For all the sports available, students will find a “Sport Specific Information” page which outlines where and when that particular event is to take place, a brief outline and an approximate cost. I feel it will be a useful tool for students to visit to gain information about an event they wish to trial for or attend. One other useful tool is that it also allows coaches to send emails to all who have enrolled in the classroom about meetings, upcoming training sessions or any last minute information the team will need.

Once a student has joined the classroom parents will have access to it also. There are also College records for our swimming and athletics carnivals.

Please encourage your child to join.

DIOCESAN TOUCH FOOTBALL SELECTIONS

Congratulations to Ayla East (Open girls) and Tanesa Browning (Under 15 girls) who were successful in making their respective Lismore Diocesan Touch Football teams last week after attending trials in Sawtell with students from across the Diocese. They both will now play at the NSWCCC Championships to be held on the Central Coast at the end of the term.

DIOCESAN WINTER SPORT TRIALS

Tuesday 5th March saw 9 of our students attend Lismore Diocesan trials for U16 and Open Girls Rugby League and U15 and Open Boys Rugby league at Woodlawn. Whilst on the same day at Lismore Thistles Soccer Club, the Open Football trials were held for Boys and Girls Lismore Dio teams. More information on selections soon.

Successful students now attend the Northern Country selection trials at South West Rocks on April 2nd and 3rd.

Open Girls Rugby League: Imogen Andrews

Under 16 Girls Rugby League: Tanesa Browning, Kate Pryke, Ivy Piticco

Under 15 Boys Rugby League: Sunny Waters

DIOCESAN SWIMMING REPORT

The 2024 Diocesan Swimming Championships were held in Port Macquarie on Thursday 7th March. Mt St Patrick College sent a squad of 19 athletes to the event with all families making the long journey south to support them.

The MSPC spirit was alive and well with our students displaying great encouragement for one another throughout the day. This camaraderie worked, as we enjoyed the best result in the history of our College, finishing second overall.

The following is a list of swimmers who have qualified for the next level, NSWCCC Championships in Sydney on Wednesday 3^rd April.

    Jody and Rick Van Den Driest

GIRLS LEAGUE CHALLENGE

Girls League Tag School Challenge in Murwillumbah

The fields at Brothers Leagues Club were ablaze with talent and determination on Wednesday 6th March as schools from across the area clashed in the annual Girls League Tag School Challenge. With every age group competing fiercely, it was a day of great sportsmanship, hot humid weather and triumphs!

There were outstanding performances from all age groups and we were able to represent the College in each Grand Final. However, it was the Under-14 and Under-16 teams who stole the show, dominating their respective divisions and claiming victory in the Grand Finals.

The event showcased the athleticism and teamwork of young female athletes for this growing sport with MSPC fielding 5 teams on the day – 64 students. Some outstanding performers from the Open teams were: Imogen Andrews, Ava McCabe, Ayla East, Bree Hodges and Phoebe Pittico. From the Under-16 team: Tanesa Browning and from the Under 14 teams – Piper Boddie, Ella Bressan, Reign Walle and Milah Irby.

Congratulations to all the teams who participated in this event, and special commendations to the MSPC Under-14 and 16 teams for their outstanding achievements in bringing home the Champions Trophy!

OPEN GIRLS TEAM 1: Coach Mrs East

OPEN GIRLS TEAM 2: Coach Mrs Judd

Under 16’s: Coach Mr Campbell

Under 14’s TEAM 1: Coach Miss Birney

Under 14’s TEAM 2: Coach Miss Withers

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Isiah Doevendans Yr 11: Rocky Trails Enduro

What a weekend for some enduro

3 massive days of racing, starting off with a 6th on the Friday, RockyTrails Academy, even after a few mishaps throughout the day. Next came the Super-flow Pro, which went over 2 days on some of my favourite tracks. Seeded in 6th again on Saturday for U21, then backed it up with a 4th on the Sunday with only 8 seconds off the podium. To top it all off, we clocked in about 70km for the big 1000km March ride fundraising for Camp Quality

Massive shoutout to @rockytrailentertainment for the best format of racing I have done, as well as everyone who raced especially in the super-flow pro. Everyone pushed hard and stayed extremely competitive which made it an absolute blast to race.

Thank you to my parents and family for taking me up for the weekend and supporting me the whole way, couldn’t have done it without you guys.

Finally, I would like to thank @reckless_aus for providing me with the best race gear possible. Tops of about 34 degrees was made more bearable thanks to reckless’s insanely good gear.

Harrison Dowling: Australian MTB Interschools Event - Thredbo March 4-8th

Harrison completed the third and final race for himself in Thredbo on Wednesday 6th after three days of competition in the Interschools.  He did really well. He had a great time and learnt a lot too.

Race 1 - 18th out of 310 riders

Race 2 - 17th out of 324

Race 3 - 18th out of 350 (12 seconds behind 1st)

DIOCESAN NETBALL TRIALS

This year the Diocese will be holding trials for a Lismore team in Under 15 and Open Netball. Any interested players should be playing at a representative level prior to applying. The application process requires athletes to complete an online registration form via the link below. Applications will be sent to coaches who will sift through all applications before selecting a small squad to invite to trial. Successful applicants will be informed prior to the event. Applications are open now, click the link:

Lismore Dio Sport Registrations

Applications will close on March 20th. Students also have access to this via their google classroom.

DIOCESAN TENNIS

On Tuesday 12th March 10 students represented MSPC at the Diocesan Tennis Championships at Arkinstall Park in Tweed Heads. The Tweed region turned on some beautiful weather which allowed for an abundance of competitive tennis.

MSPC had both girls and boys senior teams for the tournament and also a junior boys teams. The senior girls team of Ciara Dwyer, Tara O’Donnell, Amelia Andrews and Charlotte Waddell had the big task of attempting to continue the winning streak of MSPC at the event - which the senior girls had won for the last few years. Although they played well throughout the day they placed 5th on the day.

The senior boys team of Ben Wilson, Norm Fraser, Arlo Kirk and Sean Farrelly also played some great tennis throughout the day and narrowly missed out on a medal with the team placing 3rd overall.

It was the junior boys who shone brightest for MSPC playing some fantastic tennis and only losing one game over their seven matches. Bernie Fraser and Keane Moriyon were able to win their division and show that MSPC should be a tennis force in the senior boys division in years to come.

All students should be commended for their sportsmanship and positive attitude throughout the tournament. They were fantastic representatives of the MSPC community.

Mr Priddis and Mrs Cahill

DIOCESAN OPEN BASKETBALL

Senior Girls

In a thrilling showcase of skill and teamwork, the MSPC Open Girls Basketball team  delivered a masterclass performance at the Coffs Harbour tournament, securing two commanding victories. The girls soared to victory against St. Joseph's College, Banora (SJC) with a resounding 26-12 win, followed by an even more emphatic 28-0 triumph over St Mary’s Casino.

From the opening tip-off to the final buzzer, the team exhibited

exceptional athleticism, strategic prowess, and unwavering determination.

Spearheading their offensive charge were the dynamic duo of Bree Puntigam and

Kerala Richards, whose pinpoint accuracy and relentless drive to the basket

left opponents scrambling to contain their scoring prowess. Puntigam and

Richards consistently found the net, delivering crucial points that propelled their team to victory.

However, the team's success was not solely confined to their offensive exploits. The defensive end proved to be equally formidable, thanks to the stellar efforts of Maddi White and Charlie Gear. White and Gear demonstrated exceptional defensive awareness and tenacity, thwarting opponents' scoring attempts with their timely blocks, steals, and disruptive play. Their steadfast presence in the backcourt served as a formidable barrier against any offensive onslaught, ensuring their team maintained control of the game throughout.

The victories against SJC and St Mary’s Casino not only solidify the MSPC Open Girls Basketball team's standing as an emerging force to be reckoned with in the tournament but also serve as a testament to their unwavering resolve and competitive spirit. Well done Girls!

Senior Boys

On Thursday 14^th March the Senior Boys Basketball team represented MSPC in the 2024 Diocean Tournament held in Coffs Harbour. The team placed second in division two and showed great promise for the future with only one Year 12 player in the squad - Jack McClymont. The rest of the squad being made up of students from Years 10 and 11.

Game 1:

Opponent: St Joseph's, Banora Point

Result: Win (37-32)

The MSPC College senior boys started their campaign with a hard-fought victory against St Joseph's, Banora Point. Despite facing a tough opponent, our team displayed excellent teamwork and determination, securing a 37-32 win.

Game 2:

Opponent: St Mary's, Casino

Result: Win (38-15)

Building on their previous success, the MSPC College senior boys continued their winning streak with a dominant performance against St Mary's, Casino. With exceptional offensive and defensive plays, our team secured a convincing 38-15 win.

Game 3:

Opponent: Regional, Port Macquarie

Result: Loss (37-33)

In a closely contested match, the MSPC College senior boys faced a setback as they narrowly lost to Regional, Port Macquarie. Despite putting up a strong fight, our team fell short by four points, with the final score standing at 37-33.

Game 4:

Opponent: McAuley College, Grafton

Result: Win (42-18)

The MSPC College senior boys bounced back from their previous loss with a commanding victory against McAuley College, Grafton. With exceptional offensive prowess and solid defence, our team secured a resounding 42-18 win, reaffirming their strength and resilience.

Overall, the MSPC College senior boys have shown great promise and determination in the Diocesan Basketball competition, securing notable victories and displaying commendable sportsmanship throughout their matches.

Squad: Clancy Greenbury, Ryan Stuart, Norm Fraser, Joseph Maynard, Matthew Ryan, Jack McClymont, Xander Wallace and Jaxon McAuliffe.

    Sam Priddis and Lauren Frankham

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Diocesan North Open Football
• NSWCCC Swimming
• Lismore Diocesan U15 & Open Netball trials
• Rugby League training and selections 14/16 Boys and Girls
• Aussie rules training begins Week 8

    Tim Whitney

    Sports Coordinator

Awards

Curriculum

The Importance of Planning, Drafting, Proofreading and Editing

In order for students to submit their best work, it is important that they allow enough time to plan, draft, proofread and edit their responses. A helpful tip for students proofreading their own writing is to read their work aloud. This can help them detect grammatical problems if a sentence is not structured clearly. Proofreading is an important skill for students to develop and a key strategy for improving their writing and progressing their learning.

In planning for assessments, organisation is key. There is an electronic study planner on the Assessment Portal that can be downloaded to help students keep track of their coursework, homework and assessment tasks for each of their subjects. Students can detail their commitments on a daily, weekly and term basis. Students can find planners on the MSPC Assessment Portal on their year group page.

If students do not have a diary in place, they can use the Compass Online Diary to record their homework. It is found on the student profile page.

As I mentioned in my last post, students are encouraged to be proactive and seek advice from their teachers if they are struggling or unsure of what is required of them with their learning. Sending an email to a teacher can be an effective way to ask for clarification or assistance.

The Assessment Policy is detailed on the front page of the Assessment Portal which can be accessed on the MSPC Moodle Page. Information Handbooks are on the Portal.

If a student is sick and unable to complete an assessment on the due date, Years 7, 8 and 9 require a letter from a parent / carer or email to the class teacher, detailing the student’s circumstances for non-completion of an assessment task.

For Years 9 Accelerated, 10, 11 and 12 a medical practitioner is required to complete the MSPC Assessment Variation Illness Form. A copy of this document can be found on the student’s year page of the Assessment Portal.

The Year 11 Assessment Block has been scheduled to begin on 22/03/24 and will conclude on 28/03/24. Year 11 classes will not run during the assessment week. Year 11 students need only attend school to complete their assessments during this assessment block. They are required to sign in and out of the College at the front office daily.

The Year 12 Assessment Block has been scheduled to begin on 03/04/24 and conclude on 09/04/24. Year 12 classes will not run during the assessment period. Year 12 students need only attend school to complete their assessments during this assessment block. They are required to sign in and out of the College at the front office daily.

Below is the schedule for assessment tasks for Weeks 5 and 6:

    Jo McDonald

    Leader of Curriculum

Welfare

Student Welfare

The following information was shared with students today to help educate them about bullying.

Bullying is not on.

Bullying is a relationship problem in which an individual or group uses power aggressively to cause distress to another.

The student who bullies is learning to use power and aggression to control others.

The student can acquire power through:

• - advantage in social status or popularity
• - advantage in size and strength, number of allies, age, skill
• - membership of a socially defined dominant group that could be based on such things as wealth, sporting ability, etc.

Students who bully may have…

• - not acquired the skills, motivation, and understanding necessary for healthy relationships, or
• - serious problems with aggression and behavioural regulation, or
• - a different understanding of empathy and respect and bullies others to acquire and maintain social status.

Staff have ongoing professional development to ensure that we know how to listen, support and respond to bullying situations.

Bullying can be obvious but mostly it is very subtle and often includes excluding others.

As students, the best way that you can help someone who is the target of unwanted behaviour is to call out wrong doing and to say things like ”leave it” and to include the target in your group. This is an example of upstander behaviour and assists the target of the unwanted behaviour. We are very proud of a few students, who have recently displayed these positive actions and called out poor behaviour in an assertive but non-confrontational manner.

We encourage students to call out poor behaviour towards others.

The vast majority of our students are not bullies, nor do they exhibit bullying behaviours. There are however some behaviours towards others that are not acceptable in our community. Together, let’s make a commitment to not empower these behaviours but to call them out so that all students can feel safe, respected and engaged.

If you need help in dealing with a situation please talk to a trusted member of staff or your parents. We always do what we can to protect the people alerting us to bullying behaviours that hurt others - but maybe this is part of the problem and if we create a school culture that is proud to call out bullying behaviours - then the bully has nowhere to hide and may get the help they need.

It is important for the school, students and parents to have the same understanding around bullying. Could you please speak to your children about the issue of bullying. The strategies given above aim to minimise bullying whilst responding to it in an appropriate and proactive way.

    Louise Shields

    Leader of Student Welfare

Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Mt St Patrick Students are provided with many opportunities outside the classroom to motivate their learning and shape their future. Two such opportunities are reported on below.

National Youth Science Forum - Naomi Jeffrey (Year 12)

Stepping into the world of science has always been a dream of mine, and recently, I had the incredible opportunity to turn that dream into reality. Last summer holidays, I had the privilege of attending Brisbane’s National Youth Science Forum as a proud representative of our school. The National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) is a program that provides students with an immersive experience in STEM fields through workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities. For nine days, NYSFers eat and sleep on the University of Queensland campus, and attend a number of lectures, activities and tours. I learnt about possible careers in science, from entrepreneurs to ABC science reporters, social scientists, researchers and scientific government positions. I did tours of the Ecosciences Precinct and CSIRO labs where biocontrol tests for insects were taking place, and visited Brisbane’s Sustainability Agency to discuss and collaborate on climate science.

Overall, it was an amazing opportunity, furthered by the awesome people that I met, from scientists, speakers, staff and fellow students. I gained insight into potential career paths in STEM that I never knew existed, and motivation to pursue further study in science. I recommend the program to any Year 11 student who loves science, as it is a great way to meet like-minded friends and learn about possible jobs in STEM.

National Schools Constitutional Convention - Amelia Keyes ( Year 12 )

From Tuesday 19th to Thursday 21st March 2024, Amelia Keyes will be among 95 Year 11 and 12 students from around Australia attending the 29thNational Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC), which will be held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Canberra. The program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education (DOE), coordinated by National Curriculum Services (NCS) and supported by the Australian Curriculum Studies Association (ACSA) and department of education from all states and territories.

The aim of the program is to provide senior students with an opportunity to become better informed about how Australia’s Constitution provides a democratic framework and encourages them to take an active interest in the operation of government.  The topic for the 2024 Convention is: ‘Section 96 of the Constitution allows the Commonwealth to grant funds to areas that fall outside those prescribed in Section 51. Should Section 96 be amended to decentralise the power of the Commonwealth?’.

Emeritus Professor Clement Macintyre will facilitate the Convention where Amelia along with other delegates, will spend two days exploring the topic.  During the 2 days, students will hear from experts, debate the main issues relating to the topic and vote in a mock referendum conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission. The program also includes the Prime Minister’s Reception at Parliament House, a meeting with the Governor-General, The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) at Government House, and a dinner at the National Press Club of Australia. The program will be available from mid-March on the following website: https://ncsonline.com.au/projects/national-schools-constitutional-convention

As a national delegate, Amelia was selected from hundreds of students from government, independent and catholic schools, most of whom took part in feeder conventions in their home state or territory. I encourage you to acknowledge this achievement in the local media and/or within your school community.  A sample media release is included with this email.

Miss Zoe Boxshall is attending the convention with Amelia and we look forward to hearing from both participants on their return.

Solomon Islands Immersion program

A group of 22 students have been selected to participate in the Solomon Islands Immersion Program for 2024. The students will travel to the Solomon Islands in August to participate in cultural immersion and community service. The students have commenced their fundraising to provide building materials for their community service activities. One such fundraising activity is each student is seeking out a sponsor to support our endeavours. Sponsors who contribute $50 or more have their name placed on the participants travel shirt so they can accompany us on the trip. If you would like to sponsor the trip please contact the finance department at the school and you can make your contribution over the phone. A receipt will be emailed.

    Narelle Sherrah

    Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Community News

If you're looking to earn 20 Logbook hours towards your NSW Learner License, then this 5-hour Course is for you, and if you book with a friend, you can do your Module 2 component together.

The Safer Drivers Course aims to provide learner drivers with the knowledge they need to reduce road risks and prevent accidents by becoming a safe driver. 

As an Accredited Provider of the transport for NSW Safer Driver Course, PCYC NSW know that our students will complete the course with a greater understanding of how to be a safe P-plate driver.

Students are required to have completed 50 Logged Driving Hours prior to signing up to the Course.
The Course Fee is $140.

PCYC Tweed Heads is running Safer Drivers Programs for February 2024 and March 2024 on the below dates:

Date - Saturday 16/3/24

Time - 8:00am - 11:00am

Location - PCYC Tweed Heads

Date - Saturday 23/3/24

Time - 9:00am - 12:00pm

Location - PCYC Tweed Heads

PCYC Tweed Heads “Safer Driver” courses for February 2024 and March 2024 are now LIVE on our website! 

Simply click on the below link and Type in Tweed Heads 2485 and book in to the course! 

https://www.pcycdrivereducationprograms-sdc.org.au/

College News

On Thursday 15th February, Lucan launched the second annual Pet Photo Competition at our College Assembly. This is our activity to promote awareness for our charity, Friends of the Pound. Sonia Trichter (President of Friends of the Pound, Tweed Heads) attended the assembly, sharing with staff and students the work that the organisation does and the help that is needed by the public. She also brought along with her the adorable Billy, a well-behaved pooch, who won the hearts of many. I encourage you to follow Friends of the Pound on social media. Word of mouth and people power is what is needed. Below is an extract from Sonia’s address at our assembly:

Friends of the Pound – Who Are We?

We are a non profit animal rescue organisation primarily for dogs and cats, but

sometimes the odd rabbit or guinea pig.

We are all volunteers, our role is to support the animals who find themselves

in the Tweed Shire Pound and those being offered as surrenders by the wider

community. We are the Tweed Shire Pounds re-homing partner.

The past months have been very demanding. More animals are being offered

to FOP as rescues from the Tweed Shire Pound and directly from the public,

and less are being adopted. Eventually we can only take what we can house,

either in foster care, kennels or our two cat adoption centres.

Last year when I was at your assembly I asked for your help to raise the

profile of the homeless dogs and cats as our FP ambassadors which you did

(and continue to do) through your google classroom, thanks to the initiative

of Susan Waters and the google classroom group. Some of the animals on our social media sites have been waiting for their special home since 2021.

Today I have Billy with me. He is a young dog, 18 months old and very placid, he would love a happy forever home unlike his previous one. Billy was surrendered to Friends of the Pound because his owner replaced him with a dachshund puppy. Billy became a superfluous

item, animals should be for life not thrown away.

Friends of the Pound, unlike some other welfare organisations, do not euthanize for convenience, we keep our dogs and cats until they find their furever home, which in the

in the case of some, can be quite a lengthy time.

How do we stop the plight of unwanted pets?

Through logical thinking we believe that we can stem the tide of unwanted

pets by offering low cost de-sexing to the pet owners in our community. We

can do this by applying for grants offered by our supporters. Supporters are

our business partners such as Petbarn and SavourLife but we also had the

good fortune that the staff of the South Tweed Commonwealth Bank thought

our cause was worthy and so did the NSW Office of the Local Government.

We have a round of dog and cat de-sexing being offered now sponsored by

the Office of the Local Government until the end of June or until our funds

are spent. Every female dog or cat de-sexed will see a reduction in the

number of unwanted pups and kittens, there are usually 6-8 in a litter.

We, with the help from our supporting vets and financial supporters have

de-sexed 510 community animals in the past year, and half were female.

Desexing the community’s dogs and cats has reduced the number of

unwanted animals by approximately 1530.

Undesexed animals are a problem, the males will roam to find a mate.

Roaming dogs usually find their way to the local pound. If they are

microchipped, they are returned home by the local ranger with a warning. If

there is no microchip then they go into the pound where they will stay until

claimed or if not claimed and they have stayed their mandatory seven days

they will then be offered to FOP.

Undesexed animals are a cost to the Council and to Friends of the Pound.

This past financial year saw 59 dogs come into care with Friends of the Pound

and 360 cats approximately half of these cats were kittens and our expenses

were horrendous. (Vet bills were $191,864 and our food expenses were

$117,775).

We are hopeful that through our community de-sexing programs that this

year will see a slowdown in the flow of dogs and cats coming into our care

and through your help will see the long term dogs and cats find their Furever

Home.

Thank you for your help.

Indigenous Sport Shirt

If you are interested in ordering an Indigenous sports shirt, please complete this expression of interest below. Please fill it out before the 19th of March, no later. Payment requests will be sent at a later date via Compass. The Indigenous Sports shirts are for everyone in the school. The shirts are to be worn with the sports uniform on the allocated sports/PDHPE practical days, they are not to be worn on school excursions unless told differently.  $40 per shirt

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