St Johns College Dubbo Term 2, Week 6 2024

Principal

Dear St Johns Community

At our most recent school assembly I spoke with the students about them working to capacity in the classroom and striving for excellence, I read a quote that I love from Martin Luther King Jr:

When we take on a job we should do it to the best of our ability. This is no doubt a great challenge as sometimes our motivation or engagement waivers. My challenge to our students is to consistently work to capacity and take pride in their work. Pay attention to detail because small details matter and always be reflective in their practice so that they can find ways to improve. As a way of starting, students are encouraged to ensure that they are ready for learning by having the appropriate equipment, a charged device, being present at class in a timely manner and being in a positive frame of mind for learning. 

As all families would be aware regarding the teacher shortage that we currently face, Dubbo is not immune. As winter arrives and there is an increased instance of sickness we will face challenges at times in being able to have adequate casual staff to fill the void, and even struggle to internally cover the classes. There will be times when classes may collapse to the BA Hall to complete work under minimal supervision. Students will have work set for them to complete from their teacher and there will be teaching staff present to assist if they experience difficulties. We appreciate your understanding regarding this.

Have a great long weekend.

God bless

Justin McCarney
Principal

Assistant Principal

A massive congratulations to SJC students and staff for their attendance and participation in the College Athletics Carnival on Thursday. The weather was perfect and our students' sportsmanship throughout the day was commendable. Many of our students had a go at most things and had fun doing it. Days like this help to reinforce for everyone the great community that we have at SJC. 

Attendance Matters
If you’re having difficulty getting your child to school on time every day, contact the school so we can work together to find a solution.

Reaching out to the school is a proactive and constructive step if you're experiencing difficulties in getting your child to school on time.

Contact your child's Academic Care teacher or Year Leader to discuss any specific challenges your child may be facing. Subject teachers can provide insights into the classroom dynamics and academic progress, helping to identify potential areas of concern.

Collaborate with the school to identify any underlying issues contributing to the difficulty in getting your child to school on time. This could involve academic challenges, social issues, or other factors impacting your child's motivation or wellbeing.

Read about school avoidance here.

Curriculum News
The NSW Education Standards Authority Australia is overhauling the NSW curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 12. For most of our families, this will be a seamless transition. For parents and carers who would like further information about these changes, please see the information below.

Curriculum Reform Resources for Parents
Each new syllabus being released as part of NSW Curriculum Reform is accompanied by a Parent Guide, to support families understanding changes to the new syllabuses.

To access the curriculum changes please use this link.

Uniform Reminders    
As we enter the depths of winter, I would like to remind families of our uniform policy. Students are required to wear the College tie if they are wearing the College skirt and stockings/tights or the long navy or gray trousers. A tie is not worn with the College dress.

Door to Door Policy
The SJC Uniform Policy is a “Door to Door” policy. Students are required to wear the appropriate College uniform correctly from the time of departure from home each morning through until arrival home at the end of the day. Outside of College hours, students should either remain in their full uniform or out of it completely. Please note that this includes the wearing of non school caps with the school uniform.

Alinta St Johns College Uniform Requirements

Assessment and Reporting Period
We are in the midst of assessment completion and report writing. Congratulations to most students who are approaching this period of time with an organised and determined mindset. Assessment schedules are available for parents to view through our Canvas LMS. If you have been unable to access this, can you please reach out to our Leader of Teaching and Learning, Mrs Catherine Jones. If your child is absent for an assessment task, can you please ensure that you provide the appropriate documentation. Be aware that for Year 10-12 this needs to be a medical certificate.

Yours in faith

Emma Chater
Assistant Principal - Acting

Religious Education

Dear Families,

I love the above photo. I believe it is who we are as a school in one photo. It is fitting that at the centre of the photo is the altar, as it is our Catholic faith that is at the centre of all we do. On the altar is the LaSallian star and the Mercy cross. They are our charisms. It was those two communities (the LaSallians and the Sisters of Mercy) who came together in 1969 to form St Johns College. In all we do at the College, Jesus is at the centre. It is his example and his words that lead us in how we act. Jesus was kind and tolerant and compassionate (just to name a few of his characteristics) and so we are the same. 

On the left of the photo are some of our leaders. They have put themselves forward to lead by example. They are wearing their uniform with pride because they understand that our uniform means something to us and should be worn properly. 

Finally, on the right is one of our school bands. They are sharing their gifts and talents with the school. They realise that they have God-given talents and they are prepared to let their lights shine. It is my hope that every student discovers their gift - whether it be academic, cultural, sporting or spiritual - and be prepared to let that light shine. It is also my hope that our students are so supportive of one another that each of us feels at ease to share who they are and what they can do with others. 

I hope to share many more photos over the course of the year in which who we are as a College is clear. Where it as apparent that we are grounded and guided by our faith. Where our students are obviously happy and feel supported to be the best version if themselves.

If you are in town this weekend, St Johns is rostered onto Mass this Sunday at 5pm. Our leaders and teachers are in charge of the music, readings and Eucharistic ministry. I would love to see lots of families there.

Yours in Faith

Elissa Burden
Leader of Ministry and Mission

Teaching and Learning

Year 10 Subject Selection

Our subject selection process for Year 10 is underway, with students completing a series of tasks in PDHPE lessons, as well as meeting one-on-one with our Stage 5 and 6 Pathways Coordinators, Mrs Strain and Mrs Strahorn.

This work is intended to get students thinking about the decisions coming up. Our key message for Year 10 is to really reflect upon the subjects they enjoy, the subjects they are finding success in, and, if they have some post school goals already, subjects that will help them towards these.

Last Newsletter we published some dates that have since been reviewed. Please note:

Week 1 Term 3, Tuesday 22nd July
Year 11 2025 Subject Selection Evening and Faculty Fair

Week 2, Term 3
Students have the opportunity to “try on” some subjects by attending nominated Stage 6 classes

Week 3, Term 3, Tuesday 6th August
Individual interviews with all Year 10 students and their families

Week 3, Term 3, Friday 9th August
The first round of subject selections closes

Warm regards

Catherine Jones
Leader of Teaching and Learning

Mr Ray Wooby

Mr Wooby's Last Day

St Johns College today farewells Interim Principal Mr Ray Wooby.  Mr Wooby came to us at the start of the year, steering the ship until a permanent Principal could be found.

The staff of St Johns College are extremely thankful for the guidance, wisdom, kindness and friendship that Mr Wooby has extended to us. We are certain that our students and their families are also grateful for the impact Mr Wooby has had on the College in his short time with us. We farewelled Mr Wooby officially at a school Mass on Wednesday where he was presented with some gifts from our students along with a live rendition of a song by his favourite band, The Foo Fighters. The staff farewelled Mr Wooby with a morning tea, where more gifts were given and staff members spoke about how wonderful he is both as a Principal and as a man. 

The College wishes Mr Wooby all the best for his retirement years. May his time in the country hold a special place in his heart. We hope he knows he will always be part of the fabric of St Johns College.

Mrs Elissa Burden | Leader of Ministry and Mission

Pathways and Careers

Patricia Strahorn | Stage 6 Future Pathways
p.strahorn@bth.catholic.edu.au

English

Diocesan Spelling Bee

The 29th of May was the 12th Annual Diocesan Spelling Bee which is held in Wellington. This year in Stage 4, Laiba L (yr 7) and returning from 2nd place in 2023, Angeline P (yr 8). Both made it to the Final four with St Johns being the only school with both contestants making it to the Finals!

The Finals are special as they are unique words that are not known to the participants so it is very challenging. After a very stressful battle of words Angelina came 3rd and Laiba came 2nd. Congratulations!!! In Stage 5, Jonah W (yr 9) and Sarayu P (yr 9) were up against veterans of the Spelling Bee arena. Both fought bravely with Sarayu making it to the Finals. 

Most importantly, they had a lot of fun and can't wait to compete again next year. 

Well done to St Johns.

Miss Kendall Ward | Teacher

NSW Parliament's Public Speaking Competition

Congratulations to Rithika J who was nominated to speak at the NSW Parliament's Public Speaking Competition which was held in Bathurst last week. It was an event held as part of the Bicentenary of the NSW Legislative Council.

Rithika spoke exceptionally well and should be very proud of her efforts.Thank you for representing St Johns College.

Inspiration from a Editor-in-Chief - Lystra Rose

Students at the College were privileged to have author Lystra Rose speak with them about her life, experiences and writing process. She is a descendant of the Guugu Yimithirr, Birri Gubba, Erub and Scottish nations, and is an award-winning writer and editor. Specifically, she is the editor of Surfing Life magazine and is the executive producer of Surfing Life TV which is globally broadcast on Fuel TV. Outstandingly, Rose is the first female editor-in-chief of a mainstream surf magazine in the world. The Upwelling is her debut novel.

Lystra Rose was an enthusiastic and engaging role model for our students from Aboriginal Studies and Advanced English classes. She delved into the craft of writing and how students can create tension in their own pieces. Students also enjoyed her discussion on Aboriginal culture and how her own connections and relationships have assisted her to create her own unique writing style. Students enjoyed Rose’s humour and down to earth presenting style as she spoke about gaining writing ideas and adapting them for a purpose. Lystra Rose is an engaging and talented person and we are grateful for the time she spent with us.

Ms Kim Allen | Teacher

Science

Microbial Testing

Our HSC Biology Students have been practicing their sterile techniques for microbial testing in preparation for their depth study. 

Students have been testing various food and water samples to compare microbial growth.

Miss Emma Rice | Assistant KLA Leader - Science

Resource Hub - Library

Reconciliation Week 27th May - 3rd June

Students wrote their names on Yellow, Red and Black hand prints. Putting them together to great the Aboriginal flag. So lovely seeing all the hands together as a community!

Mrs Bruce - Teacher Librarian
Miss Lappa - Library Technician

Mrs Bruce | Teacher Librarian

Chess

St. Johns College played against Orange High School on Friday, 31st May, in a tight online game. Orange H.S. led the charge against the SJC Team, winning two boards and St. Johns fought back, winning two boards as well. We drew but Orange High School won the game on countback. 

St. Johns play against Bourke High School in the next round of the NSW Junior Chess League Competition - Western Region. 

Thank you to our SJC Team - Eamonn, Sarayu, Milind, Jonty with reserves, Archie, Callum and Leanne for playing.

Mrs Rhonda Bruce | Chess Team Leader

Sport

Selesitino Selected for NSW CCC U16 Rugby Union Team

Congratulations to Selesitino on his selection to represent the NSW CCC U16 Rugby Union side following trials held in Sydney recently. Sele will play in the All Schools Rugby Trials on the 26th June. Well done Sele on a great acheivment.

Joely to Compete at the National All School Swimming Championships

Congratulations to Joely who placed in the All Schools Swimming Championships at Homebush on Friday.

17 & Over 50m Breaststroke - Bronze
17 & Over 100m Breaststroke - Silver

Joely will now compete at the National All School Swimming Championships at the Gold Coast in July. Well done to Abbie Messner and Harrison Stevens who also competed at the event.

Attendance

We care about attendance because we care about your child.

School Fees

Dear Parents/Guardians 

Thank you to our families who have paid their College fees.

Families paying their fees by the term please note instalment 2 was due by Friday 24 May 2024.

For families making regular, weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments please ensure your payment plan is on track to have your College fees account finalised by 30 November 2024.

To ensure your College fees account is on track please note from this week, Friday 7 June 2024 there are 26 weeks, 13 fortnights or 6 months until fees are due. Contact the College Fees Office if you need to adjust your payment plan.

HSC fees are due by 31 October 2024.

If you wish to discuss your account please contact the College Fees Office on 6841 5142 or email m.carlow@bth.catholic.edu.au.

Kind Regards 

Maree Carlow
Administration Finance Leader

Important Dates

Term 2 2024

If you would like to add the St Johns College Calendar
to your google calendar please click on this link.

Monday 10th June
Kings Birthday Holiday

Tuesday 11th June
Diocesan Soccer Gala Day - Bathurst

Wednesday 12th June
U16 Girls Tackle Rugby

Friday 14th June
Year 12 Trivia Night

Monday 17th June - Wednesday 19th June
Year 11 Retreat - Lake Macquarie

Tuesday 18th June
NSW All Schools 16's Basketball

Friday 21st June
Dubbo Eisteddfod - SJC Strings

Wednesday 3rd July
Cambodia Immersion

Friday 5th July
Last Day of Term 2

TERM 3

Monday 22nd July
Pupil Free Day

Community News