We thank all students and families who attended this fundraising event as all funds raised go towards our students attending Primary Schools Netball Cup during the September school holidays in Mudgeeraba.
Newsletter dated 31 August 2023
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Newsletter dated 31 August 2023
- PRINCIPAL (ACTING)
- DEPUTY PRINCIPAL (ACTING)
- ASSISTANT TO THE PRINCIPAL PRIMARY & TEACHING & LEARNING
- ASSISTANT TO THE PRINCIPAL FORMATION & IDENTITY
- SchoolTV
- NEW SMOKE AND VAPE-FREE PUBLIC PLACES - SCHOOL CARPARKS
- DEBATING SUCCESS
- VIETNAM VETERAN'S DAY - A DAY TO SAY THANKYOU
- COUNTRY & WESTERN DISCO
- MEALS ON WHEELS
- DO YOU HAVE A COUNTRY FLAG WE COULD BORROW ?
- YEAR 7 EKKA TRIP
- YEAR 11 CAMP
- THANKYOU TO THE STANTHORPE LIONS CLUB
- BUBBLES & BONSAI EVENING
- FAIRPLAY VOUCHERS ARE NOW OPEN
- THRIVING KIDS AND PARENTS SCHOOL PROJECT
- STUDENT FREE DAY
- UPCOMING EVENTS
Over the last two months, I have spoken to many parents, families and students at school information nights, open afternoons, enrolment interviews and generally around the community. During these conversations, I have focused on the two major themes of what we continue to provide in our educational journey at St Joseph’s. Firstly, we have a focus on how we can deliver quality teaching in learning in our classrooms, through refining practice as part of a collaborative learning community, using our Exemplary Teaching and Learning Framework. Secondly, we are focused on the wellbeing of every student, ensuring that as a community the lens is firmly placed on looking after and supporting everyone within our school.
A huge thank you to all students, families and staff for all the great work done last week for Book Week. The addition of the House Activities on the Monday and Friday were a great way to have our students across P-12 sharing their passion and love for reading. The Book Week parade was excellent, and it was great to see so many students and staff embracing their love for reading and the characters that fill our hearts and minds from our favourite books.
Our Year 12 students move into a 7 day Mock External Assessment block across Weeks 9 and 10 as they prepare for the state-wide External Assessment (EA) block that commences 23 October. The purpose of the Mocks is to rehearse the structure of the assessment block and familiarise students with the types of assessment they will experience in the EA’s. Feedback received as part of these mock assessment is critical in informing the direction of the remaining weeks of the mastery period and will allow for students and staff to work collaboratively to prepare the students for the challenges of the external assessment.
Finally, the Year 11 Leadership Camp took place this week at Emu Gully with the Leadership Day taking place today at the QCWT. With a focus on developing the leadership of our Year 11’s, through the lens of the spirit and qualities of the ANZAC’s, we were immensely proud of the way this group supported each other through the various challenges. The way they came together as a group and displayed teamwork, resilience and persistence gives me every confidence in the future student leadership at our school in good hands. The Year 11 students now enter the student leadership application and interview phase, where 2024 Student Leaders will be announced and presented to the school and wider community at our School Awards Night early next term.
Call to be… Christ-Like
Called to live… Mercy
Matthew Brown
Acting Principal
We hope you're still basking in the afterglow of the enchanting Book Week that took place from Monday 21st August to the Friday 25th August. The corridors may no longer echo with the excitement of turning pages, but the magic of the written word continues to linger. Let's take a moment to relive the joyous moments and celebrate the success of our school's Book Week.
The Significance of Book Week:
In a digital age characterized by a myriad distractions, the significance of books and the act of reading is more pronounced than ever. Book Week served as a reminder of literature's timeless power to transport us, to introduce us to characters who stay with us forever, and to expand our horizons in ways we could never have imagined. Here's why Book Week holds a special place in our hearts:
- Stirring Imagination: Books are gateways to realms beyond our reach. They ignite our imagination, inviting us to explore new ideas, cultures, and perspectives. Whether it's a voyage through uncharted galaxies or a trip back in history, books have the power to transport us without ever leaving our chairs.
- Fostering Empathy: Through the pages of a book, we can inhabit someone else's experiences, fostering empathy and understanding and making us more compassionate global citizens.
- Enhancing Vocabulary: Reading enriches our vocabulary and refines our language skills. The more we read, the more words we encounter, enhancing our ability to communicate effectively.
- Cultivating a Lifelong Habit: Cultivating a love for reading early in life lays the foundation for a lifelong habit that promises joy, relaxation, and unending learning.
A Week of Literary Marvels:
Book Week unfolded a tapestry of activities designed to engage, entertain, and enlighten. From insightful author visits and captivating storytelling sessions to bustling book fairs and thrilling reading challenges, there was something for everyone:
- Dress-up Day: The campus came alive with the vibrant costumes of beloved literary characters. From the Lorax to Spiderman, the diversity of characters mirrored the diversity of our reading choices.
- Storytelling Extravaganza: We were transported to faraway lands and introduced to unforgettable characters through enchanting storytelling sessions that made the words leap from the pages.
- Mentor Book Sharing: Our Secondary students shared beloved books and read alongside our primary students.
Basking in the Celebration:
We're grateful to everyone who made Book Week a grand success, from the students who participated enthusiastically to the educators who nurtured a love for reading.
Until next time, keep turning those pages and embracing the magic within words.
God Bless
Brooke Butson
Acting Deputy Prinicpal
The primary campus has continued to be a hive of activity in recent weeks in relation to learning as well as social events. Last week, during Book Week, we extended the usual activities to include an opportunity for primary and secondary students to work together, firstly reading and then creating our own story about reading. The ability to be lost in a book - whether it is enchanting, spell-binding or engrossing because of the relevance of the content - is something that should not be underestimated. With the increase of technological devices and the busyness of life, it can sometimes be hard to find the time to read, but it is so important. Reading, or being read to, has the capacity to extend a child's vocabulary significantly as well as helping to develop their writing skills and ideas. Further benefits can be seen here:
Next year, we will be implementing a new approach to reading and comprehension across P - 6 which is being developed by Toowoomba Catholic Schools. This will allow us to build on the successes we have seen with the previous Reading Improvement Strategy, as well as utilise new research into how children learn to read more effectively. Further details of this initiative will be shared with parents in Term 4 but in the meantime, we are pleased to be able to develop our practices as educators in line with current research so that our learners can continue to thrive.
Last week, Year 6 students interviewed members of the school and wider communities about their time at St Joseph's and how their experiences whilst they were here influenced the person they have become. This is a wonderful opportunity for our young people to understand that all our experiences impact our lives in some way and that we can always learn something from every situation.
In recent weeks we have welcomed Year 11 student, Olivia Page to the primary campus on a Tuesday lunchtime to host a drama club at lunchtime. It is lovely to be able to support such an initiative from a secondary student and to see the delight of the primary students as they engage with the activities that Olivia has planned.
Another successful disco was held at the end of Week 6, thanks to the help of a significant number of staff members and parents as well as Year 5 and 6 students. Thanks to all those who supported the event which was held in aid of the primary netball team who will be travelling to a weekend competition at the end of this this term. The money will help with costs incurred during the weekend.
Finally, we have welcomed three new students to our community in recent weeks - Ella (Year 4), Serafina (Year 3) and Evelyn (Year 2). I know that they have already been made to feel very welcome by their peers. That is just one of the things that we do well at St Joseph's.
With God's blessings
Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary & Teaching & Learning
Forever Learning…
A couple of weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend the Australasian Mercy Schools Secondary (AMSSA) Conference in Brisbane. Attendees from all around Australia, as well as New Zealand gathered, connecting and sharing ideas and stories from their Mercy roots.
Preparing to listen to one of the Keynote Speakers, Sr Berneice Loch, I felt I knew quite a bit about Catherine McAuley and her journey towards founding the Sisters of Mercy. It turns out there is a lot more to her story than even I realised. Her struggles to maintain her Catholic faith, experiences of stark poverty and fear, the Penal laws of the time, and the lengths she went to in establishing her school in Baggot Street, all contributed to her work in extending warmth and hospitality to the most vulnerable.
Catherine’s story continues to be told and retold, her life and extraordinary story of mercy in action.
“She connected the rich with the poor, the healthy to the sick, the educated and skilled to the uninstructed, the influential to those of not consequence, and the powerful to the weak to do the work of God on Earth.” (Joanna Regan rsm. 1978. Tender Courage)
With God's blessings,
Megan Mahoney
Assistant to the Principal Formation & Identity
Respectful Relationships
Fostering a nurturing environment of respectful relationships within your family holds the key to not only harmonious living, but also improved academic outcomes for your children. As parents and caregivers, embracing the art of teaching children about respect at a young age sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy interactions and empathetic understanding. It will help cultivate a positive environment where communication flourishes, conflicts are resolved constructively, and bonds are fortified.
Teaching children to respect themselves and others will open up avenues for both personal growth and academic achievement. Fostering an environment where respect is not just a word, but a practiced behaviour, will empower young people with essential life skills. Effective communication, active listening, and the art of compromise, will provide your child with a solid foundation that will transcend family interactions and help them collaborate effectively with peers, teachers and the broader community.
Equipping children with an understanding of healthy versus unhealthy relationships is an important aspect of their development. It will guide them to make informed choices, foster positive connections, and set boundaries that contribute to their emotional wellbeing. Understanding the nuances between healthy and unhealthy relationships provides children with the essential tools to navigate their social world, build self-esteem, and cultivate meaningful relationships.
In this edition of SchoolTV, learn how to empower young people in healthy interactions to embrace differences and forge connections that honour their self-worth. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.
If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to this month's edition https://stjosephs.qld.schooltv.me/newsletter/respectful-relationships
As of 1 September 2023, smoking and vaping is prohibited in all school carparks.
Smoking and vaping is already prohibited at public and private school facilities and in a 5-metre buffer zone extending from the boundary of the school.
The new law extends the smoke and vape-free protection to include all carparks provided for school communities. This includes carparks located on council land that are intended for school community use.
The smoke and vape-free requirements for schools always apply. This means school carparks are also smoke and vape-free areas outside of school hours, on weekends and in school holiday periods.
The laws apply to all persons using a school carpark including students, teaching staff, parents and guardians of students, other employees of the school, visitors and persons providing a service or volunteering, clubs and organisations accessing school facilities.
Free signage for this new smoke and vape-free public place is available by calling 13 QGOV (13 74 68).
For further information:
- email smokingreduction@health.qld.gov.au;
- visit New smoking reforms | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au), or
- refer to Creating smoke-free places: A guide for Queensland local governments.
Well done and congratulations to the Year 10 Debating team from St Joseph's who performed exceptionally well in the final of the Queensland Debating Union Toowoomba Region Competition held on Tuesday 16th August.
In a very close result, the team went down after the adjuducators voted 2-1 in favour of their opponents, Pittsworth State High School.
This is an outstanding effort by our team in a high quality competition. Second in all of the Toowoomba region in their first year debating at this level - wow!
Congratulations to all the students and a huge thank you to Mrs Mary Roberts who has done an amazing job developing debating at the school and Miss Villari for her support also.
Friday 18th August saw a number of our students attend the annual Vietnam’s Veterans service at Weerona Park, representing St Joseph's School.
On Vietnam Veterans' Day, we pause and reflect on the bravery, teamwork and endurance that Australians displayed throughout the war.
We honour those veterans who:
- lost their lives during battle
- returned home wounded, ill or injured
- lost their lives in the years since they returned
- still carry the physical and emotional scars of their service
We also pause to reflect on the impact of service on veterans' families.
This is an important part of our continued recognition of those men and women
who have served our country in conflict and in the defence forces.
Friday 18th October saw students on the Primary campus enjoy their Primary School Disco.
The theme for the evening was “Country & Western” and many students and staff alike, dressed for the occasion.
Students enjoyed a feast of sausage on bread, chips, lollies and poppers and then danced the night away.
As part of St. Joseph's School's "Faith in Action Program" students this week have been delivering meals to members of the Stanthorpe community through the Meals on Wheels Program.
This program provides an opportunity for students to offer service and compassion to people of the local community.
October is Catholic Mission Month with Sunday 22nd October being Mission Sunday.
To help celebrate Mission Month, Fr Gonzo is asking if any families may have a flag from their country of origin to use for the month of October.
The flag does not have to be of any particular size, as he is hoping that we could represent the many families from our school and parish who have connections to their home countries and acknowledge the unity and connection we have together.
If you are able to assist, flags can be dropped into the School or Parish Office between now and early next term. Please ensure your item is labelled in some way.
As part of our school's ongoing commitment to offering students a breadth of educational opportunities relating to the curriculum (Science, Geography, Agricultural Science), students travelled to Brisbane to experience the Brisbane Exhibition (EKKA), held at the RNA Showgrounds.
The EKKA brings together primary producers, manufacturers and retailers, as well as industry specialists and experts, offering our students a unique educational experience which, in turn, will broaden their understanding of various concepts across the curriculum. The EKKA is always an insightful and enjoyable adventure for our students, in particular the Showbag Pavilion at the end of the day!
Our Year 11 students recently attended their Leadership Camp at Emu Gully in Helidon, from Monday 29th August till Wednesday 31st August.
The purpose of this camp was to prepare students for their final year of schooling and the responsibilities that come with being School Leaders.
Camp activities are built around epic ANZAC events. Students develop team building and leadership skills, were provided with a ‘hands on’ history lesson, and had a great deal of fun. More importantly, students were encouraged to embrace the ANZAC character values of courage, self-sacrifice, perseverance and mateship. These values align clearly with our school values.
This camp is always a very important part of the Year 11's preparation for their final year of schooling and the role the group will take on as our School Leaders.
Thank you to the Stanthorpe Lions Club for their generous sponsorship towards purchase of the back packs for the 34 students and 6 staff members going on the International Study Tour in April 2024.
Travelling to England, France and Belgium, the group will embark on an exciting two weeks visiting historical sites associated with the First and Second World Wars and providing cultural and religious experiences.
Bubbles and Bonsai Evening
October 11th, 2023
St. Josephs’ School, 110 High St, Stanthorpe
Multi-purpose Room
5.30pm – 7.30 pm
Tickets $30 pp.
(includes 1.5 hr presentation, gift pack, wine and cheese)
Kim Rochelle-Brown from ‘Lilliannah Bonsai’ offers bonsai, classes and presentations to the health, corporate and educational sectors. Kim’s trees have successfully competed in bonsai shows and received positive reviews and awards. With over 30 years of teaching and bonsai experience across Australia and Japan, these trees are now on offer for you to view in a Bonsai presentation evening.
This is an opportunity to learn about bonsai and its history, care, feeding, watering, and styles over a relaxing wine and cheese evening. Come and learn about this living art, its origins, history and what is involved to create and maintain a bonsai tree.
There will be show bonsai on display along with a 1.5 hour presentation, gift back and complimentary membership to’ Lilliannah Bonsai.’
Trees will be for sale after the presentation from $45.
Booking details to: Kim 0414 999 051 or trees@lilliannahbonsai.com.au
Direct payment on BSB: 514179
Acc: 1135710
Relax and learn all about the history, care, feeding, wiring and styles of bonsai over a wine and cheese evening with Kim from Lilliannah Bonsai.
Please be advised applications for Round 9 of FairPlay Vouchers, through Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport, are now open.
- Parents, carers or guardians can apply.
- Applications are limited to one voucher per child per year.
- Maximum value of $150 per child.
- Vouchers can be used towards sport and active recreation, registration or participation fees.
- Activity providers must be registered.
- Round 9 closes 4th October,2023
For further information, please visit the link below
FairPlay vouchers | Recreation, sport and arts | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)
As part of the Thriving Kids and Parents School Project, you are invited to attend three highly relevant Triple P – Positive Parenting seminars from one of the most effective evidence-based programs in the world, FREE of charge. These interactive seminars will be delivered to parents/carers of children aged 4 – 12 years from your school/via a videoconferencing platform.
The three interconnected seminars will provide you with a toolkit of practical strategies to help your child thrive. These strategies will help you guide your child’s behaviour, manage everyday worries, and build healthy peer relationships.
Attending all three seminars will provide you with the strategies you need to best support your child’s development.
- The Power of Positive Parenting (Triple P Seminar) helps you to understand why kids behave the way they do and introduces practical strategies to support your child’s social and emotional development.
- The Helping Your Child to Manage Anxiety (Fear-Less Triple P Seminar) is designed to equip you with the skills and strategies you need to support your child to manage their emotions and overcome challenges.
- The Keeping your Child Safe from Bullying (Resilience Triple P Seminar) helps you maintain good communication with your child, develop positive peer relationships, and address conflict and bullying.
How can I get involved?
- Register for the seminar series and complete a short (approximately 15 – 20 minutes) online questionnaire.
- Attend the three online seminars in the TKPSP series (90 – 120 minutes each seminar).
- Complete post-seminar series questionnaires 6 weeks and 12 weeks following the registration. Each questionnaire will take around 15 minutes to complete and will help us understand how helpful the strategies have been.
Yes, I want to be involved. What’s next?
Register through this link: https://able.adelaide.edu.au/education/thriving-kids-and-parents/for-parents#power-of-positive-parenting
If you have any questions, you can contact the project team at: thrivingkidsandparents@uq.edu.au
| 31 August | Year 11 Leadership Day |
| 1 September | Student Free Day |
| 3 September | Father's Day |
| 4 September | ATSI Year 12 Graduation Mass |
| 9 - 15 September | Ski Trip |
| 11 September | Year 6 Japanese Cultural Day |
| 14 September | R U OK? Day |
| 15 September | Term 3 Finishes |
| 16 - 17 September | Primary School Netball Cup |
| 2 October | Kings Birthday Public Holiday |
| 3 October | Term 4 Starts |
| 9 - 13 October | Well Being Week |
| 11 - 12 October | Japanese Bonsai Activity Day |
| 12 October | SBA Employer Thank You Lunch |
| 13 October | Under 8's Messy Play Day |
Get Ready for Torture on the Border 2023!
Bigger & Better this Year with
ONLY 8 WEEKs TO GO – Saturday afternoon 21st October!
COME & TRI SESSIONS
Sunday 24th Sep: 12–1pm Texas Swimming Pool
Sunday 1st Oct: 12– 1pm Texas Swimming Pool
Sunday 8th Oct: 12– 1pm Texas Swimming Pool
Wednesday11th & 18th Oct: after school 3.30-4.30pm Texas Swimming Pool
Learn the course
Have some fun training
Organise a team or participate solo
Lets have some fun, learn the course & make a training session! This is a great way to make sure you & your children are familiar with the course, get cracking on organising your team or yourself & get your registration in!
