It has been a great week for students with wins in sports at a diocesan level, the success of the launch of the Art program with our students at St Paul’s and the senior students who are visiting St Paul’s to see if they are interested in being a Primary teacher. All of these young people have stepped outside their comfort zone and taken a risk. It is often difficult for teens to step outside their comfort zone but it is the only way to learn! It is the school and parents job to make sure they have the skills that will enable them to succeed when they ‘have a go’. That is why there is a variety of learning at school, not just the academics in the classroom but all the interpersonal interactions that occur everyday contribute to students' learning. The one skill I would like to see more students develop is self compassion. This assists with lessening anxiety and worry. Self compassion is the ability to be kind to yourself. I see some of the most compassionate students to others are the harshest on themselves and their self-talk is never what they would say to someone else. Jesus asks us all to be compassionate  - that includes being kind to ourselves - the expectation is not perfection but growth and improvement. There is lots to celebrate. Pope Francis used to bring compassion into conversations about justice, inclusion, and global responsibility. “Compassion is the language of God. Let us learn to live with kindness, to love everyone, even when they do not love us.” Pope Leo is following in his footsteps with Compassion is a matter of humanity, not a religious issue. Compassion, Pope Leo stressed, takes form through concrete actions, because in order to help someone, “you cannot stay at a distance.” To be compassionate, you have to get involved and be prepared to “even get dirty, perhaps take risks.”

Semester 1 Reports and Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews

On Monday 30th June, students will receive their Semester One Academic Reports through Compass. Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews will be conducted during Week 10 and Week 1 for Years 7-10. I encourage all parents to make time to attend these interviews. They are such an important opportunity to come together and work in partnership to support your children and send the clear message that their education is important.

The two opportunities for Years 7-10 Parent Teacher Interviews are:

• Tuesday 1st July from 3pm to 7pm FACE-TO-FACE (Term 2 Week 10)
• Wednesday 23rd July from 3pm to 7pm via ZOOM (Term 3 Week 1)

Students, in particular, are encouraged to look closely at their reports to identify areas of progress and improvement and use these to set goals for Semester 2. It is important that reports are used as a valuable tool in enabling growth for all students in their learning. Should you have any questions regarding your child’s academic progress, please do not hesitate to contact their class teacher, the relevant Leader of Learning or PALS.

NAPLAN Results – Celebrating Growth

As the school and diocesan analysis of the 2025 NAPLAN results continues, we would like to once again celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Year 9 students. Their strong results reflect both their effort and the dedication of their teachers. We remain committed to supporting every student’s growth, and this year's results demonstrate that learning is alive and thriving at St Joseph’s.

Years 7-10 Semester 1 Reports

Reports for Years 7-10 will be distributed in coming weeks via the Compass portal. We encourage students as well as parents/carers to not just focus on the grade. Teachers spend considerable time to provide detail regarding the level of achievement of course outcomes as well as personal profiles and comments on students strengths and areas to focus on.

This information is just as important as the grade as it provides a clear path for students to follow to elicit growth in Semester 2 which will hopefully lead to an improvement in the grade for that subject.

Parent Teacher Interviews

The booking portal for Parent/Teacher/Student Interviews is now open.

Alongside reports, this is an ideal opportunity for parents/carers and students to discuss a students progress in a subject to support their ongoing growth across Semester 2.

Year 11 2026 Subject Selection

Subject Eligibility Tracker - This week we have released the updated Student Subject Eligibility Trackers. This can be accessed via the Reports tab on your Compass portal.

It provides students with feedback in regards to their current level of academic achievement in comparison to the standard expected to achieve course outcomes in Stage 6 courses. This should be heavily considered as part of the upcoming subject selection process to help with placing students in the ‘right subjects’ at the ‘right levels’.

If a student is not achieving at the set standard in a subject they wish to choose, then they are encouraged to book an interview with their class teacher or subject LoL to discuss their progress and identify areas that need to be developed to support their capacity to complete the course(s) they are considering for their pattern of study.

Mentor Interviews - The final step for students before initial subject selection is mentor interviews. This will take place with Year 10 students this Term in Week 9 starting on Monday 23rd June.

ALL students (including those not intending to return for Year 11) are required to book an interview via the Compass portal. Parents are welcome to attend in person, arrangements to set up a zoom can be made if this is more practical - please contact the teacher you book your interview with to facilitate this. If parents/carers are unable to attend then students should book an interview at a time that suits.

This process is critical to ensure students choose subjects that not only meet their ability, but meet NESA requirements and their post school pathway. Students are asked to ensure they turn up with a reasonable idea of the subjects and pathway(s) they are considering.

Initial Subject Selection - We are hoping to have the Online Portal for the initial round of Subject Selection open for Students by the end of Week 9.

Year 11 Cookery

Mr Ferderer's Year 11 Cookery II class completed service period #2 this week. They made a range of four soups and garnishes to raise money for Vinnies. Thanks to Miss Elise Rogers and Miss Elisabeth Schott for supporting the class. Thanks to Mrs Curcio-Borg and the SRC team for serving the soups.

They also attended Work Placement this Term to learn some valuable hands on skills and knowledge to add to what they learn at school. There were some wonderful reports from both the supervisors and the students. 

• Ambiance Ristorante
• Kiama Leagues Club
• Raffa's Cafe
• Culinarious
• Fresh @5
• The Resin Brewery 
• The Fraternity Club
• Ambers Cafe
• D'Amato's Pizzas and Pastas

Year 12 Cookery

Year 7 Food Technology

Recent News and Events

St Joseph's Apprenticeship Careers Exhibition - 10 June 2025

Event Review: Industry Conversation Day - A Resounding Success!

The recent Industry Conversation Day proved to be an outstanding success, offering senior students a unique and enriching opportunity to engage directly with professionals from a wide range of industries within the Illawarra and Shoalhaven region. Held in an engaging and well-organised format, the event enabled students to gain practical and meaningful insights into future career pathways.

Representatives from a diverse spectrum of industries and training organisations generously volunteered their time and expertise, each hosting their own 'Industry Conversation Table'. This setup allowed students to rotate between tables, ensuring they were exposed to a variety of career options and industry-specific advice.

Throughout the day, students heard first-hand what a typical day looks like in various professions, the skills and attributes employers are seeking, and the training pathways available to enter each field. Representatives also offered valuable tips on how to prepare for job opportunities and shared strategies to stand out in a competitive job market.

The interactive nature of the event fostered genuine curiosity and prompted thoughtful questions from students, who took full advantage of the opportunity to engage with professionals in a relaxed and supportive environment. It was particularly inspiring to see students actively reflect on how their personal strengths and interests align with different career options.

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing newfound clarity and motivation regarding their post-school goals. Year 10 students, in particular, found the experience eye-opening as they prepare to make important subject selection decisions. Meanwhile, senior VET students appreciated the chance to connect their current training with tangible career outcomes.

Overall, Industry Conversation Day was not only informative but also deeply empowering for our students. The event highlighted the strength of our local industry connections and the shared commitment to supporting the next generation of skilled professionals. We extend our sincere thanks to all participating organisations and a special thank you for Jenny Watts from RIEP for helping facilitate this event.

UOW Year 12 Early Entry Presentation and Year 10 HSC Subject Selection unpacked - 16 June 2025

UOW Visit to St Joseph's - Empowering Students for the Future

The visit from University of Wollongong (UOW) school liaison officer James Terry on Monday, June 16, 2025, provided invaluable support and guidance to both our Year 10 and Year 12 students at St Joseph’s.

Accompanied by a team of enthusiastic and knowledgeable current UOW students, James led an interactive session with our Year 12 cohort, focusing on early university entry programs and the UAC application process. Students were guided step-by-step through their applications, with personalised assistance ensuring they left the session feeling confident and well-prepared for the next phase of their academic journey. The presence of current university students added a relatable and practical perspective, as they shared their own experiences and offered real-world advice on transitioning from school to university.

In a separate session, our Year 10 students benefited greatly from James’s engaging and informative presentation on HSC subject selection and university pathways. The session helped demystify the subject selection process, providing clarity around how choices made now can influence future opportunities. Students appreciated the insight into university prerequisites, ATAR considerations, and alternative entry options.

Nursing and Health Careers Workshop - 19 June 2025

Inspiring the Next Generation of Health Professionals

The University of Wollongong’s Nursing & Health Careers Workshop was a valuable and inspiring experience for our Year 10 and 11 students who are considering futures in nursing and healthcare. The day offered a well-rounded introduction to the diverse and rewarding opportunities available in the health sector, leaving students both informed and motivated.

The workshop began with informative sessions outlining the various career pathways into nursing and allied health fields. UOW staff provided clear and practical guidance on the educational requirements, university entry pathways, and job prospects within the healthcare industry. This foundational knowledge gave students a solid understanding of what a career in health can look like—and how to get there.

One of the highlights of the day was the hands-on practical activities in Nursing and Exercise Science. Students had the opportunity to engage in clinical simulations and try out basic health procedures, giving them a real taste of what working in a healthcare setting involves.

Upcoming Work Experience/Industry Networking Events

Float your Boat - Maritime Industry Immersion Program 2025

Community Care Sector - Work Readiness Program

What the program offers:

Students interested in career pathways in Child care or Aged Care -

This one day workshop will provide you with hands-on skill development and advice from industry professionals.

Work Ready Workshop – 14th August

Venue: Warilla Bowling Club – Diamond Room

Closing date for EOI is 1st July 2025. (Students must submit a resume with the EOI)

For further information speak to Mr Morley

At the Sports Assembly in 2024 we launched the theme for 2025 of Faster, Higher, Stronger, Together. This motto has been our drive for St Joseph’s sporting teams this year and we are seeing some fantastic results coming through. 

The drive for excellence goes beyond the sporting field. Sport teaches us so many lessons including resilience, mateship, patience, discipline, leadership and teamwork. These are all things students take with them into everyday life outside of the sporting world. 

At the start of this year, I tasked the students and coaches this year to strive for one place further than they got last year in the 2024 season. For some teams this meant placing 7th rather than 8th whilst others have been trying to take the top podium spots. 

The past few weeks and the next few weeks are big on the sporting calendar. I am so proud of each student's dedication to their training and how they are showing up for each other as a team. This is the culture we are trying to build in sport. In the end results don’t truly matter, but the lesson of discipline and showing up for your team and coach is one that is truly important at Joey’s. It is about creating a respectful environment where each athlete is helping their team be 1% better. Through showing up to training, being there for your team and working hard/having discipline, that is when results will naturally come. I would like to say a massive thank you to all the coaches who have been giving up huge amounts of their time to prepare our teams for all our competitions. I would like to congratulate them and their teams on the success they are bringing into St Joseph’s.

I would like to wish our Hockey teams the best of luck as they head to the Diocesan Championships next week and then head out to Bathurst to compete at the NSWCCC Championships. 

Brief overview of recent results:

• 2nd Place NSWCCC Diocesan 9-10 Boys Basketball Qualifier 
• 1st Place Open Boys Diocesan Netball (NSWCCC next term)
• 1st place U16s Girls Illawarra Sam Bremner Shield Champions (Qualified for Wagga Wagga next term)
• 1st Place 7-8 Boys Netball NSW Schools Cup Qualifier (finals later this year)
• 1st Place 9-10 Boys Netball NSW Schools Cup Qualifier (finals later this year)
• Plenty of individuals representing at high levels (Please see below)

Congratulations again to all involved! Please continue reading on for reports & MVP’s of our teams recently.

9-10 Boys NSWCCC Basketball Qaulifier

Congratulations to our year 9 & 10 boys basketball team who made the final of the Dio Boys Knockout Competition. The winning team, John Therry, go on to the NSW CCC Basketball Championship.

The boys needed to win a playoff game against Nowra to enter the knockout main draw. They started this game on fire, keeping Nowra scoreless for most of the first half. With a bit of complacency on our behalf, Nowra almost clawed their way back into the game. We held on for a solid win 53 - 42.

Our next game was against Edmund Rice, a quality team. Edmund Rice started strong holding a small lead for most of the first half. We started to gel as a team with all players stepping up, defending well and scoring some great team baskets. Eventually Joey’s hit the lead with only a few minutes to go. Winning the game in a nail biter by only 3 points. A great win against a really strong team.

This put us into the final against John Therry. The game started at a frantic pace with both teams playing outstanding basketball. Unfortunately we were not able to match the talent of JT, eventually going down 68 to 51. A great effort, considering they play together every week in their school competition. We gave them a scare, being only a few points behind for most of the game.

Congratulations boys, this has been two years in the making. Your hard work is starting to pay off. Let's see how we go next year and in the upcoming Gala days.

Diocesan Netball Championships

7-8 Girls Division 1

On Friday the girls played in the DIO Netball Championships at Berkeley. Even though the weather was not the greatest with it being cold, rainy and miserable, the girls were exceptional and they all gave it their best !!

Even though the girls only came away with 1 win and 1 draw for the day, they all played as a team and were so supportive of each other. The teams were rough, but they all held strong till the final game. The girls should be all so proud of their efforts and sportsmanship they showed throughout the day.

Well done girls.

MVP- Ella Whittle

7-8 Girls Division 2

The Junior Girls Netball team displayed an outstanding performance last week, not only in their skills on the court but also in their exceptional sportsmanship. Facing off against opposing schools, our girls showed determination, teamwork and a positive attitude from start to finish. Well done girls!

Mrs Robinson

MVP: Kaylee Marsh

9-10 Girls Netball

The girls had a really strong showing, all demonstrating great skill on the court, their communication and sportsmanship really shone. They played some great battles and had some really good wins. Thank you To Ms Madaschi who came along on the day and coached the team

MVP: Cadence Hardy

Open Boy's Netball - Diocesan Champions!

The St Joseph's Open Boy's Netball team led the way at the Dicoesan Netball Carnival last week. They played with great skill and enthusiasm.

The boys played 8 games across the day and went undefeated. They demonstrated excellent sportsmanship across the day earning a lot of praise for their gameplay from other teams. Thomas Hofman, Nash Burling and Archie Faulks were encouraged to trial for the NSW Under 17 Men's team for 2026. Their results for the day were convincing:

• They beat Corpus 12-9
• They beat Edmund Rice 15-1
• They beat Mt Carmel 10-7
• They beat John Therry 8-3
• They beat Magdalene 12-5
• They beat St John's 12-4
• They beat St Benedicts 9-7
• They beat Holy Spirit 13-7

MVP: Thomas Hofman

Open Girls Netball

The Open Girls Netball Team demonstrated some excellent skills and sportsmanship over the 8 games played at the carnival. They played fair, fast and skillful netball and should be congratulated on their achievement at the carnival. They came away with some great wins, some close losses and overall had a fantastic turnout. Thank you to the year 12 members of the team who played their last Netball carnival for the St Joseph's team, they have been great role models over the past 6 years and have elevated the school's game to a new level. Thank you to Taylor Darke who managed the team on the day.

MVP: Kiana Rieck

Illawarra Sam Bremner Shield - Girls Rugby League

U16s Girls Rugby League

The U16 Girls Rugby League team showcased incredible determination and teamwork at the recent Rugby League Tournament held at Croome Road Sporting Complex. Facing strong competition throughout the day, the girls rose to the occasion and delivered an impressive series of performances.

In the pool matches, the team took on St Mary’s and Bulli High School. Against St Mary’s, the girls showed grit in defense and creativity in attack, matching their opponents every step of the way Winning 24-14. In the clash with Bulli, the team found their rhythm, with strong carries through the middle and well-executed set plays out wide that led to a convincing win final score 26-12 ensuring first place in our Pool.

These strong performances saw the girls qualify for the semi-final against Warilla High School. In a tough, physical re-match, the team stayed composed under pressure, defended their line with heart, and capitalised on their chances in attack to secure a well-earned victory and a spot in the final.

In the final, they faced a determined St Mary’s side for a re-match. The girls gave everything in an intense and hard-fought battle, showing tremendous spirit and sportsmanship. Resulting in a win 18-16, what a courageous performance and a brilliant day of football.

Congratulations to all players for their effort, teamwork, and pride in representing St Joseph’s Catholic High school.

The under 16 Girls team are now Champion school and have earnt a place in the school championship to be held at Wagga Wagga in July.

Stand out players were Emma-Lee Sutton powerhouse forward, Lani Graham elusive out wide and Emily Hollingworth who led us around the field and was named MVP for the tournament

Happy Hetho

Coach

U14 Girls Rugby League

The U14 Girls Rugby League team put in a determined and spirited performance in their matches against St Mary’s and Bulli High Schools at the NRL tournament held at Croome road Sporting Complex on Tuesday 17 June.

In the opening game against St Mary’s, the girls showed excellent Spirit and resilience. Despite facing a strong opposition, our team held their own, with some impressive runs that pushed us into attacking territory. Although the result didn’t go our way, the team showed growth and commitment right until the final whistle.

In our second game against Bulli High School, the girls lifted their intensity and worked well as a team. Strong ball carries from the forwards laid a solid platform, while the backs took advantage of space out wide. A highlight was the team working together, since several players were new to the game and it was a sharp learning curve. The defensive effort remained strong throughout, with several try-saving tackles showcasing the team’s courage and determination.

Overall, the girls should be proud of their effort, sportsmanship, and ongoing development. They continue to improve with each game and represent the school with pride.

A proud Coach

Mr. Hetherington

Trivia Night!

2025 SJCHS TRIVIA FUNDRAISER -  REPRESENTATIVE SPORT

Come join our 2025 St Joseph’s Catholic High School Trivia night that is fundraising for our school representative sport teams for 2026. All funds raised will go towards new team uniforms, updated sporting equipment and assisting with transport costs.

The theme for the night is ‘Countries of the World’, so come dressed in your best costume attire.

Tickets are $80 per table with 8-10 people. BYO snacks, drinks and table decorations.

PLEASE NOTE: This is an adults only event with no students able to attend.

We will have a raffle available on the night and prizes to be won for best dressed, winning tables as well as other competitions on the night.

There will be plenty of games on the night to buy in on, so please bring some cash to join in on these games and there will be prizes for best dressed and winning tables.

Donations: If you or someone you know is able to donate to this year's Trivia, please get in contact with Miss Power (powers01@dow.catholic.edu.au). Thank you for your support.

NSWCCC Cross Country Results

Congratulations to Ashton Byrne, Rylan Kearnes and Bianca de Swardt who competed at the NSWCCC Cross Country Championships last week. Bianca finished 3rd place and will now move on to compete as part of the NSWCCC team at All Schools next term.

Individual Sporting Success

Congratulations to Max Elliot & Jayden Mare who competed in the NSWCCC Hockey teams (U15s and Open boys). Jayden was selected in the NSW All Schools Merit team. Congratulations boys.

If your child has had sporting success outside of school we want to hear about it.

Please email details through to Miss Power (powers01@dow.catholic.edu.au)

St Joseph's Sport Instagram Page

For all things sport follow our social media page

SJCHS SPORTS

SCHOOL FEES

Thank you to all the families that make such an effort to ensure that their fees are up to date. School fees are essential for the financial viability of Catholic schools. School principals have the responsibility of ensuring school fees are collected. If you are experiencing financial difficulties and are unable to make payments, please contact the finance office or email accounts@sjchsdow.catholic.edu.au

Over the past two weeks, our school community has shown incredible generosity and compassion through a series of fundraising events in support of the Vinnies Winter Appeal.

Last week the SRC kicked off the fundraising efforts with a Soup Fundraiser, offering warm cups of soup to raise money and awareness for those in need. This week, students proudly wore their team colours for the State of Origin Jersey Day and enjoyed a Sausage Sizzle. These events were marked by a strong sense of community and a shared desire to support the Vinnies Winter Appeal. Money raised so far for Vinnies Winter Appeal is just over $1190.00, such a huge effort.  This will help provide warm clothing, food, and essential support to individuals and families facing hardship this winter.

Thank you to everyone who contributed whether through planning, volunteering, or simply participating. Your actions truly reflect the spirit of kindness in action.

Our Annual Can Drive has begun!

Students and families are asked to bring in cans to support our local St Vincent de Paul branch at Albion Park and Oak Flats. Items needed are:

• Canned goods,
• Pasta and sauces
• Baby food and nappies in a range of sizes (more toddlers than newborns this year)
• Coffee jars
• And any long life items

Joey’s Can Drive is also a House competition! Bring in cans to help show your support for those doing it tough this Winter and also to win house points. Finishes Week 10 - 3rd July 2025.

Vinnies NSW supports tens of thousands of individuals and families each year who are experiencing financial and housing insecurity. This year, the theme for the Vinnies Winter Appeal is “no one chooses to be homeless”.  This winter Joey’s contributions will help rebuild lives and dismantle the communal constructs that lead to disadvantage and homelessness. Please give generously. Your support is very much appreciated.

Get Ready to Go Pink with Legally Blonde Jr

Get ready to be totally bend and snapped into action! Joey's latest school musical, "Legally Blonde Jr.," is just two weeks away! Come and witness the incredible talent and hard work of our dedicated students as they bring this vibrant and hilarious story to life. Don't miss out on this fantastic production - get your tickets now and show your support for our amazing school community and its performers!

Tickets are on sale now! Use the QR code in the attached poster or this Trybooking link to get your tickets.

https://www.trybooking.com/DBZNB

See you at the show!

CatholicCare courses are Now Open for enrolments! Their range of Courses focus on: 

•    strengthening relationships
•    parenting
•    post-separation
•    supporting parents with children in care
•    managing challenging emotions
•    grief and loss

Courses are held in a supportive environment with others who share similar life challenges. 

They are held online or in-person at our Nowra, Campbelltown and Wollongong offices. Please see below flyer which outlines the courses and dates:

Reminder: Uniform Shop Now Open in Dapto

We’re pleased to share that the new Perm-a-Pleat Dapto outlet is now fully set up and welcomed back families on Tuesday, 3 June at 8:00 am.

Shop Details:

Address: 2 Marshall Rd, Dapto NSW 2530
Phone: (02) 7259 9200
Email: dapto.retail@permapleat.com.au

Trading Hours:

• Tuesday: 8:00am - 12:30pm
• Wednesday: 1:00pm - 5:30pm
• Thursday: 10:00am - 6:00pm
• Saturday: 9:00am - 1:00pm

Parking Information:

Customer parking is available at the rear car park on Bong Bong Rd, with a ramp leading directly to the uniform shop. Limited street parking is also available nearby.

Don’t forget that online orders can still be placed through the school website and will continue to be delivered to the school for student collection.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this transition. We’re excited to offer this improved service for our families.