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- PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE
- DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
- ASSISTANT TO THE PRINCIPAL PRIMARY & TEACHING & LEARNING
- ASSISTANT TO THE PRINCIPAL FORMATION & IDENTITY
- SchoolTV
- SAVE THE DATE - BOOK WEEK 2024
- CELEBRATING QUEENSLAND'S SCHOOL CROSSING SUPERVISORS for 40 YEARS OF SERVICE
- STUDENTS RELISH THEIR CAMP EXPERIENCE
- EMPOWERING FUTURES - THE JOURNEY OF BLUE EDGE AT ST JOSEPH'S
- STUDENTS REVEL IN WINTER WONDERLAND ADVENTURE
- GROWING TOGETHER - A JOYFUL JOURNEY WITH OUR PREP STUDENTS
- CATHOLIC SCHOOLS PARENTS AUSTRALIA SURVEY
- SPORT
- UPCOMING EVENTS
During the Student Free Day on Friday 30 August, staff took part in the first day of a four-day course about the Berry Street Education Model (BSEM). BSEM is a trauma informed, educator-designed and evidence-led framework that empowers teachers to create classrooms where every student is ready to learn and able to thrive. BSEM provides proven strategies that are easy for teachers to implement in the classroom and empowers and equips educators to help all students succeed.
This is a very good program which will form the basis of our pastoral and behaviour management program moving forward.
Schools that have applied the Berry Street Education Model have seen:
- improved student wellbeing and engagement to bolster positive behaviour
- better supported students who experience diverse and complex learning challenges
- increased teacher wellbeing, ensuring all staff feel equipped to deal with the diversity of student needs.
“Learning gains after implementing BSEM are particularly significant for students who have previously struggled to achieve, reporting up to two-years of literacy growth in just one-academic year.”
Professor Helen Stokes
Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, 2022
For more about the Berry Street Education Model, go to https://www.berrystreet.org.au/learning-and-resources/berry-street-education-model .
The last weeks of term has been very busy with assessment, camps, tours and sporting finals, amongst so much more. My thanks to all staff and students for their wonderful work and involvement in the life the school and our community. I wish all students, families and staff a restful, safe and blessed break over the next two weeks.
God Bless
I wish to extend my thanks to Jacob Steele and Anna Jones who travelled away with me to the Ski Trip at Mt Perisher in Week 9. It was an excellent trip and enjoyed by all who were lucky enough to attend. In particular, we thanked the Years 10 and 11 students who attended upon our return to Stanthorpe. Their behaviour and engagement across the week was exceptional and they were a credit to themselves, their families and their school in the way the conducted themselves across the week.
Year 12 students have completed Mock External Exams in Week 10 to support their preparations for the upcoming stat-wide External Assessment block in October/November. These mock exams are an important feedback opportunity for our Year 12’s and I commend them on their engagement and efforts across this week.
Term 3 has been a very busy yet rewarding term. I thank all staff, students and families for your efforts and support across the term. Please enjoy a well deserved break. See you in Term 4!
Call to be… Christ-Like
Called to live… Mercy
Matthew Brown
Deputy Principal
The last two weeks have been dominated for Years 5 and 6 by camp - the excitement of the lead up and preparation followed by the experience itself and then the reflection. It is certainly not within everyone's comfort zone to be away from home for two nights or to engage in such physical and challenging activities but I am proud of the way in which the students pushed themselves and encouraged each other throughout the camp. I have had the opportunity to hear some stories from the children and to read their reflections. I have also spoken to the teachers who each had stories to tell about individuals who shone for different reasons.
Below are some thoughts from students who attended, reflecting on what they learned:
- I have learned that I am no longer scared of chickens and even though I am in the older years, I can still make new friends (Issy)
- The main thing I learnt is that respect is in almost everything you do including teamwork (Emma)
- As an individual who is not a confident speaker, I learned that my ideas are useful and that people won't judge you even if you are wrong. (Petra)
- I really got to know people in my cabin because of endless hours of no sleep and midnight chit chats! (Ella)
- I learned that when I put myself out of my comfort zone, I achieve something (Chloe W)
- I learned that teamwork is the key to succeeding in events but not everyone knows how to work as a team. (Zoe)
- The vertical drop was tricky and I made it higher than I thought. This showed me that I am brave. (Brax)
- I learned that I am not that scared of heights and that I am brave enough to face my fears. (Sophia)
- Camp challenged me by trying to figure out how things fitted together in the bridge making. (Isabelle)
- Every time I walked up and down the hills I thought, "How strong are my legs going to be after camp?" (Polly)
- Camp was really challenging because you had to balance on a stack of crates that was uneven and I learned that team work makes everything easier. (Holle)
- One of the challenges at camp was being away from home because I'm not used to it. (Ella)
- I did step out of my comfort zone on the water slide, the crate stack and the rafting. (Makayla)
These camp experiences would not be possible without the generosity of the staff who accompany the children. My sincere thanks are extended to Sarah Day especially who spent the entire week at camp, but also to Jane Clarke, Kim Badcock, Johanna Campbell, Nakita Garland and Tracey Cullinan for their care and support of the students. We are extremely blessed that we have staff who are willing to do this each year.
Last week we also recognised Child Safety Week by reminding the students of some key safety messages including the identification of five key people in our lives who are trustworthy and a reminder of who the School Protection Officers are. This message was also enhanced by the Daniel Morcombe Child Safety lesson which promoted 'enthusiastic consent'. This is a term used to help students understand that permission needs to be sought before giving a hug for example and it is absolutely ok to decline someone who is entering your 'bubble'. On 12 September we will also be recognising RUOK? Day and reminding the children to check in on their friends. It is important that, as the responsible adults in the children's world, we model and reinforce these safe and caring practices at all time.
Finally, after a busy term and one which has seen many staff and children succumb to winter illness, I do hope that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy a restful and safe holiday. There is much to look forward to in Term 4 but we all need to recharge the batteries first!
With God's blessings
Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary & Teaching & Learning
Spring: A Time for Renewal and Rejuvenation
As the chill of winter fades and the days grow longer, we are greeted by the vibrant and uplifting season of spring. This time of year is a beautiful reminder of renewal, rejuvenation, and new growth. Just as nature awakens from its slumber, we too are invited to embrace the fresh start that spring offers, presenting us with our own potential for growth and renewal.
In the Christian tradition, we draw inspiration from Jesus' time in the desert. After 40 days of fasting and reflection, Jesus emerged renewed and ready to begin his ministry. This period of solitude and contemplation was crucial for his spiritual rejuvenation. Similarly, spring encourages us to take a moment to reflect on our own lives, to let go of what no longer serves us, and to embrace new possibilities with a sense of faith and hope.
As we embrace the beauty of spring, let us take inspiration from Jesus' time in the desert and use this season to reflect, grow, and embrace the new beginnings that await us. May we all find joy and hope in the promise of spring.
Megan Mahoney
Assistant to the Principal Formation & Identity
R U OK?Day
Understanding the growing challenges related to mental health among young people is an important consideration. Anxiety, depression and self-harm - are all causes for concern. Factors like academic pressure, social media, family dynamics, and societal expectations, are contributing to these issues. It's therefore crucial for parents and caregivers to take action early, remove the stigma around discussing mental health, and offer accessible support to address these issues and the wellbeing of their children.
R U OK?Day is an initiative that focuses on preventing suicide by encouraging meaningful personal connections and helping informal support networks to help recognise the signs of distress. We urge all families to take part, emphasising the value of genuine human relationships and reminding everyone to ask the important question, "Are you OK?"
Engaging in R U OK?Day activities goes beyond the classroom; it's a commitment to our students' overall development. By talking openly about mental health, schools create safe spaces where students feel understood, valued, and supported. As parents and caregivers, you can contribute by fostering open conversations, normalising feelings and breaking down mental health stigmas. Participating in R U OK?Day promotes compassion and shows our dedication to the wellbeing of the entire school community, reaffirming that together, we can truly make a difference.
This Special Report provides guidance on how to talk to your child about mental health and engage in meaningful discussions.
Here is the link to the Special Reporthttps://stjosephs.qld.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-r-u-ok-day
SAVE THE DATE!
Book Fair 2024 is coming to St Joseph’s School from Monday, 28th October to Friday, 1st November.
This year’s theme is “Reading Rainforest - Go Wild for Books!”
Join us for a week filled full of book browsing where students can explore a wide selection of books for all ages and interests.
We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating the joy of reading together!
This year, Queensland’s School Crossing Supervisor Scheme celebrates 40 years of keeping kids safe as they travel to and from school.
We'd like to say a big thank you to our wonderful School Crossing Supervisor/s, Kaye Clear, Carlene (Carly) Ball, Pasqualina (Lina) Scalora, Antonina (Nina) Ricca, and Miguel (Michael) Zuniga (absent), for everything you do for our students and school community! You do a great job keeping our students and other pedestrians safe as they cross the road in peak drop-off and pick-up times.
Why not say a big thank you the next time you see them on duty! You can also show your appreciation for School Crossing Supervisors by slowing down, following directions and being courteous while travelling in our school zone.
Did you know?
- The School Crossing Supervisor Scheme is operated by the Department of Transport and Main Roads.
- There are more than 2000 school crossing supervisors who operate over 1300 crossings at more than 700 Queensland schools.
- There has not been a single fatality on a supervised crossing since the scheme started in 1984.
Students from Year 5 & 6 last week ventured off to the wilderness to enjoy their annual school camps.
As part of the School's pastoral progam, it is important for students to experience other opportunities outside the classroom to develop skills and atributes that will develop them as young adults.
School camps are a great opportunity for students to build leadership, communication, conflict resolution, courage and tenacity skills to grow as individuals and as a cohort.
Year 6
Year 5
Students recently completed the Blue EDGE program at St Joseph’s School Stanthorpe.
Blue EDGE (Educate, Develop, Grow and Empower) is an initiative of the Blue Light Foundation Queensland where a police officer facilitates a physical training program designed to improve young minds and physical capabilities.
The program includes career education, goal setting, motivational speakers and mentoring to assist a young person with reaching their potential.
Over the past few weeks, the program hosted a diverse group of guest speakers:
- Dr. Melissa Pope, a general practitioner, who shared her journey to studying medicine.
- Dan Cuthbert, a finance and leasing manager, who provided basic financial literacy information.
- Cr Russell Wantling, a newly elected councillor on the Southern Downs Regional Council, who discussed community and volunteering.
- Stef and Christine from Jamworks, who shared their experiences from the ADF and policing to running a small but growing business, and treated us to some lovingly made scones.
- James Lister, the Member for Southern Downs, who spoke about service, community, and leadership.
- Senior Sergeant Ciaron Jackson, Piper Zali, and Drummer Oscar from Queensland Police Pipes and Drums, who explained the role of the QPS P & D, gave a brief introduction to piping and drumming, and played a short tune for us.
Blue Edge participants faced their ‘Final Edge’ with a trip to Emu Gully on Wednesday 4th September. They moved out of their comfort zones, overcame fears and worked together through challenges.
This is the culmination of their 8-week program and we thank Jim Ellis, Dan O’Dea, the Blue Edge initiative and volunteers and teachers who supported students throughout. This is an incredibly valuable program that develops important skills and builds confidence, impacting student’s school and wider lives.
Students from Year 10 and 11 recently travelled to the Snowy Mountains for the annual ski trip. The school ski trip offers lifelong memories and fun for school students and teaches them valuable life lessons. We are talking real world experience that will inspire and help school students become more worldly individuals and critical thinkers.
Travelling with their peers and pushing students out of their comfort zone helps to strengthen friendships and build confidence.
Lots of laughs and many memories were made - that's for sure !
Our Prep students at St Joseph’s have now completed three-quarters of their first year of schooling, and it has been an absolute delight to watch them grow and learn.
Their enthusiasm and curiosity have been inspiring, and seeing their progress in such a short time is truly heartwarming. Each day brings new achievements and discoveries, making this journey a memorable and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
![IMG_4388[52]](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/stjostanthorpe/media/11731/240904110121901/550x733/img_4388_52_.jpeg)
![IMG_4393[95]](https://prod005-au.sz-cdn.net/stjostanthorpe/media/11732/240904110122362/550x733/img_4393_95_.jpeg)
National Parent Survey
The CSPA 2024 Parent Survey on Student Wellbeing and Learning is seeking your perspective as parents/carers of children who attend a Catholic School in Australia.
You are invited to share your views on existing and emerging affirmations and/or challenges in relation to your child/children’s wellbeing and learning. Please consider completing this anonymous, confidential, and completely voluntary online survey.
More information about the study, how to participate, and how to have questions answered, can be found here.
Thank you for your interest.
Netball
And the winners are...2nd prize-Geri Watson & 1st prize-Holly Patti.
Congratulations to the lucky winners of the Primary Netball Cup Raffle!
St Joseph’s School is excited to announce that several teams will be heading to Bundaberg on 14th-15th September to participate in the Primary Schools Cup. This Netball Queensland initiative is open to all primary school children in Years 4-6, providing a wonderful opportunity for boys and girls from across Queensland to experience competitive netball in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment.
All proceeds from the raffle have gone towards covering the costs of this tournament. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who purchased tickets and supported our teams.
We wish our netballers the very best and look forward to hearing all about their experiences when they return!
| 13 September | Term 3 Finishes |
| 14 - 15 September | Primary Schools Netball Cup - Bundaberg |
| 22 - 27 September | Year 12 External Examination Preparation Program (EEPP) |
| 30 September | Term 4 Starts |
| 3 October | 2025 Student Leader Nominations Due |
| 7 October | King's Birthday PUBLIC HOLIDAY |
| 8 October | 2025 Student Leader Interviews |
| 8 - 11 October | Wellbeing Week |
| 9 October | Maths Team Challenge |
| 10 October | SBA Employer Thankyou Lunch |
| 11 October | Walkathon |
| 14 October | DD Cricket (13-15 Boys) |
| 17 October | Awards Night |
