Moving through the season of lent it is essential we find time to reflect on our lives and how we are living. In the current times where parents are time poor, financially stretched and teenagers live their lives on devices it is often a challenge. 

Teaching our young people is a joy. But teachers also have the time pressure of checking the learning, dealing with the social issues, assessments for and of learning, let alone the paperwork that is now required as a part of the daily life of a teacher. 

Keeping our important relationship central to our lives is often hard. When we are tired and exhausted it is often our closest people who bear the brunt of our emotional burnout because we are safe with them. I often hear parents say their children are not nice at home but this is often because they are safest at home and they have used up all their capacity to cope during a school day. It is hard not to take it personally for the parent or even when the kids are seeing their parents at the end of their tether it is hard for all involved. 

I hope during this Lent you make the time to nurture all the relationships that are important to you. Including the relationship we have with ourselves. God calls us to be his hands to those around us which calls us to be loving and compassionate. 

The cross-country carnival last Monday was a great day thank you to the staff for all their organisation and work on the day. Overall, the student behaviour was good, and it really was a lovely day. 

Congratulations to our students who swam at the Dio level - well done. 

Our seniors are moving into assessment time. If your child needs additional support, please contact the PALS. The compulsory Year 12 retreat is coming up soon and it is an event that allows students to explore their relationships with self, family and friends. It is all about letting your light shine for the world. 

Developing social and emotional skills is also important for our young people. Attending events like the cross country and Year 12 retreat are what it is to belong to a catholic school, it is not optional when you attend SJCHS. I liken it to a package deal, and I really appreciate parental support in this matter and all other events that students are expected to attend.

Ms Amanda Wilson

Principal

Enrolling Now - Year 7 2025/2026 

Enrolments are now open for Year 7 2025 and Year 7 2026. We are also accepting enrolment applications for other year groups.

Applications have moved to a digital platform this year. Please head to the Enrolments section on our school website for access to the Enrolment Application Form.

Places are limited so don't miss out and make your application today!

Ongoing Commitment to Learning Progress

Continuous improvement in student learning remains a key priority for our teachers. Earlier in Term 1, students in Years 7-10 participated in the annual Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) for Reading Comprehension and Mathematics. These test results serve as valuable insights for our teachers, guiding adjustments to their instructional approaches to ensure the diverse needs of all learners are addressed. In Term 4, students will undergo these tests again, allowing our staff to assess and measure the growth in their learning. In an exciting development, parents/carers will receive a summary of these PAT results in the upcoming weeks.

Student-Led Research Project: 'Teach the Teacher'

Two exceptional Year 11 students, Emily Di Pietro and Matthew Shepherd, are currently spearheading a student-led research initiative titled 'Teach the Teacher.' Their project focuses on gathering feedback from students regarding effective learning and teaching strategies. Emily and Matt plan to present their findings to the teaching staff during a professional development session on a Staff Development Day in Term 2.

To collect comprehensive data, Emily and Matt will conduct meetings with focus groups of students in Years 7-10 throughout Term 1. We extend our gratitude to Emily and Matt for their dedicated work on this research project, showcasing how student voice and input can positively impact the overall student experience and enhance learning outcomes.

Referrals to Headspace Shellharbour – NOW OPEN

From Wednesday 28 February 2024, young people aged 12-25 eligible for support may be referred to the new Headspace Shellharbour centre located at 172 Shellharbour Road, Warilla (the ground floor of the Smart Financial building).

Click here to access the website.

How to make a referral

Referrals may be made to our centre using the below methods:

• Phone (preferred): By young people, families, and services by calling us directly on phone: (02) 4225 5670
• Email: Service providers can request and return the headspace Shellharbour Referral Form, by emailing (headspaceshellharbour@gph.org.au), or by fax using FAX: 4225 5671
• In person: A young person may access our service at 172 Shellharbour Road, Warilla from 8:30 am to 5 pm to request support

Referral guidelines

Please see here for more information. A summary is below.

Eligibility: Headspace is aimed at young people 12-25 with mild to moderate support needs.

Headspace provides a “no wrong door” approach and any young person seeking assistance will be supported through Headspace or assisted in finding the right service.

Support available

Headspace Shellharbour offers the following support services:

• Youth counselling for support with psychosocial stressors (up to 10 sessions)
• Mental Health clinical intervention (up to 10 sessions with or without a mental health treatment plan)
• Peer support (up to 10 sessions) Family and relationships counselling with our partner service Relationships Australia Vocation support with our partner service Personnel Group and the headspace national online work & study service
• Drug and Alcohol support with our partner service Kedesh

Young people in the Kiama region

The Kiama Headspace site is expected to open soon. Young people in Kiama are encouraged to access support from the Shellharbour service and may be assigned support from a headspace worker who will operate from the Kiama site once opened.

Mr Chris Shelton

Assistant Principal

Naplan

Next week Students in Years 7 and 9 will sit their NAPLAN tests. Tests will begin on Wednesday 13th (Week 7) and finish on Monday 18th (Week 8). The remainder of Week 8 will be used to run catch up tests for any students who miss any of the tests on the scheduled days.

A few reminders about the tests:

Firstly, there is no need to stress about NAPLAN. The tests simply provide a measure of student’s current level of performance in each of the testing areas. This information is used to determine how much growth students have made since their previous NAPLAN tests as well as to provide an insight into their areas of strength as well as areas that may need further work.

For this reason, we ask that students take the tests seriously so that the information we receive with their results is as accurate as possible so we can understand where students are at and help them progress as much as possible.

Please make sure student’s devices have been checked by the IT Department to ensure the most recent LDB version is installed so they can access the online testing platform.

Students will need to ensure they have earphones/earbuds etc linked to their device to access any audio files that may be linked to questions across all the tests.

Devices and EarPods etc need to be fully charged each night before each exam.

I strongly suggest students take time to access the online practice tests. (They take about 10 mins each). This will help students to understand how to navigate the online test platform, access the resources such as audio files, calculator, ruler etc as well as the types of questions they can expect to do as part of the tests. The practice tests can be accessed from the NAP Public Demonstration Site 

Further information regarding NAPLAN including the exam schedule can be found on the school NAPLAN website.

If you have any questions or issues regarding NAPLAN please email or call at any time.

Minimum Standards Tests

To receive a HSC, students must complete NESA’s HSC Minimum Standards Tests. Students need to achieve Level 3 or 4 in short online numeracy, reading and writing tests of skills for everyday life to meet the HSC minimum standard.

This means that students who demonstrate the standard have the skills to do things like:

• follow safety instructions in equipment manuals
• understand a mobile phone plan
• write a job application
• create a personal weekly budget

Further information can be found on the NESA Website. Students begin sitting the tests in Year 10 and get multiple opportunities to complete the test and reach the minimum standard each year.

This term we will run the first round of tests for Year 10 students as well as those in Year 11 and 12 who still need to complete any tests in Weeks 10 and 11. Dates will be provided for each test in coming weeks. We ask that students ensure they are present on the day of the scheduled tests to help ensure they meet this NESA requirement.

As always if there are any issues with anything related to Curriculum feel free to email or call the Curriculum office at any time.

Mr Brett Moran

Curriculum Coordinator

UOW SUMMER MASTERS CONGRATULATIONS 

In the school holidays, six of our students attended this event at UOW and gave up three weeks of their holidays. This was reported in the last newsletter; however an error was made about one of the student’s results in the course.

Bailey Brennan received a HIGH DISTINCTION in the course Responsible Business Decision Making. Congratulations Bailey, a fabulous effort.

Airshow Downunder Career Day

March 1, 19 of our students went to the event at Shellharbour Airport.

This provided students with a unique opportunity to explore aviation careers.

Students feedback suggested that the day was informative, engaging and a great experience. They were exposed to information about traditional and non- traditional careers that really interested them and got them thinking about their own career paths. Thanks Mrs Rochester for taking the photos and accompanying the students.

Women in Career Conversations

On March 6th, 11 of our students visited Lake Illawarra High School to participate in hearing about career opportunities from 24 Industry spokespeople from a variety of career paths. Each group of students asked prepared questions to ask each industry panel guest, such as; what are the barriers to being a female in a non-traditional trade? What qualifications are required to do your role? Expected salaries etc. The students enjoyed this career event and found it a wonderful experience. We also caught up with ex-students Lara De Olivera, who is a Materials Engineer now at BlueScope.

UOW Information Evenings

3 April - Wollongong Campus

UOW Information Evenings are designed for students and parents who would like to know more about studying at UOW. These interactive events are designed to answer all the common questions that students have about starting university study. UOW staff and current students will be on-hand to make sure you have all of your questions answered at the one time in the one place.

Register for the event that suits you!

https://future-students-events.uow.edu.au/infoevenings2024

POSITIONS VACANT

Position Vacant for a Graduate

Job Title: Trainee Auditor

Location: Wollongong Office, Daley

Company: Daley Chartered Accounting Firm

Application Link: https://www.daley.com.au/positions/undergraduate-auditor/

Position Overview: We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Trainee Auditor. This entry-level position offers an excellent opportunity for candidates currently enrolled in their 1st or 2nd year of Commerce degree (majoring in Accountancy) to gain valuable hands-on experience in auditing.

Requirements:

• Currently enrolled in a university degree program, majoring in accounting.
• Strong analytical skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have access to reliable transportation.

Benefits:

• Mentorship from experienced professionals and exposure to diverse aspects of the accounting profession.
• Exposure to diverse industries and clients.
• Engaging work environment with opportunities for career advancement.

How to Apply: To apply for this position, please email your resume (along with a copy of your academic results) to Leanne.Vaughan@daley.com.au and cc smilgate@daley.com.au.

SOUTH 32 Graduate Roles for 2025 applications open

Applications are now open for the 2025 South32 Graduate Program.

The Graduate roles are:

• 1x Mechanical Engineer
• 1x Electrical Engineer
• 1x Process Engineer
• 1x Mining Engineer

Also they are recruiting for 1x Surveyor Cadet. A cadetship provides an opportunity for a student to study and work part time (paid).

Students or parents can email me for more information.

NECA Electrical Apprenticeships Career Pathways

Apprenticeships in all electrical fields are available. Express your interest here:

[https://www.necatraining.com.au/electrical-apprentices/expression-of-interest/](https://www.necatraining.com.au/electrical-apprentices/expression-of-interest/) https://www.necatraining.com.au/electrical-apprentices/career-paths/

If your child would like to book a one-to-one career planning session please email me.

Sue Kennedy

Transition and Pathways Specialist/ Career Adviser

kennedys01@dow.catholic.edu.au

NSWCCC Triathlon

Report from Team Manager Mrs Linsley:

On Tuesday the 21st February, five St Joseph's students competed in the NSW All Schools Triathlon event at the Regatta Center in Penrith.

This event usually involves a swim, bike followed by a run. However, due to poor water quality it became a duathlon, with athletes required to run 750m first, before getting on the bike.

First timer, Finn Behl and Patrick Byrnes had great races, finishing side by side after running 750m, riding 10kms and running 2kms.

Benjamin Martin backed up his race from Year 7 for another All Schools Triathlon event. He was lucky enough to compete on a road bike this year, enabling him to keep up with the pack. Benjamin had an awesome race finishing in the middle of the junior boys.

Ashton Byrnes was super competitive in the junior boys, finishing at the front end of the field.

Bianca de Swardt, had an amazing race, finishing in 10th place in the hotly contested senior girls division. She ran 750m, rode 20kms and ran 5kms. We look forward to seeing her race again next year.

Well done to all our individual triathletes.

Team Triathlon

On Wednesday 22nd February, seven St Joseph's teams made the drive to the Penrith Regatta Centre to compete in the team event. Ashton, Patrick, and Bianca backed up from the day before.

All teams had a great day, doing their absolute best for their team. A big thankyou to our swimmers who, at the last minute, needed to sprint 750m instead of swim. The distances were 750m swim, 10km ride and 3km run for our junior teams, with the intermediate and senior teams needing to ride 15kms.

Teams:

Swimming Carnival

The swimming carnival was a resounding success, with students showcasing their aquatic prowess and team spirit. The atmosphere was electric as competitors cheered each other on, displaying admirable sportsmanship throughout the event and their true house spirit. We had many students partake in various races, and put everything on the line for house points.

We had 4 records broken on the day:

• Senior Male 100m Backstroke & Senior Male 100m Butterfly - Flynn Gould-Anthony
• 16 Years Male 50m Breaststroke - Declan Bone
• 15 Years Male 50m Backstroke - Te Ari’i Aperau-Bob

Despite the intense competition, camaraderie prevailed, fostering a sense of unity among the school community. Overall, the swimming carnival was a memorable day filled with excitement, camaraderie, and outstanding performances in the water.

Age Champions and House Winners will be announced on assembly in Week 7 and published in the Week 8 newsletter.

Diocesan Swimming Carnival

Report from Team Manager Mrs Behl:

Yesterday I was lucky enough to attend the Dio Swimming at Corrimal Pool. The standard of some of the athletes was outstanding, creating fierce competition for our swimmers. Our students represented Joey's well in both their efforts in the pool and their behaviour. We have one swimmer who has progressed to the next level - Te Ari'i Aperau-Bob placing first in the 100m 15 Years Backstroke. Flynn Gould-Anthony and Xara-Jade both placed 3rd overall in their respective age groups.

If you see these swimmers around, please congratulate them on their efforts:

• 14 Years 50m Butterfly - Xara-Jade McCrimmon - 3rd Place
• Male Intermediate 4 x 50m Medley - 3rd Place (Tas, Sam, Declan & Te Ari'i
• Boys Intermediate 100m Backstroke - Te Ari'i Aperau-Bob - 1st Place
• Boys 14 Years 100m Freestyle - Oliver McDonald - 3rd Place
• Male 17 Years+ Breaststroke - Flynn Gould-Anthony - 2nd Place
• Male 16 Years 50m Breaststroke - Declan Bone - 2nd Place
• Male 15 Years 50m Backstroke - Te Ari'i Aperau-Bob - 2nd Place
• Male Intermediate Medley - Oliver McDonald 3rd Place

Cross Country Carnival

On Week 4, Monday, we held our whole school cross country. This was the first time in multiple years we have been able to run this carnival due to poor weather. Students not only had the opportunity to compete for house points by running the course, they could show their talents amongst other activities such as Minute to Win It, Volleyball, Trivia and Novelty Games. It was great to see so much house spirit and sportsmanship displayed over the course of the day.

I would like to thank all the staff for their huge efforts, parents and other spectators who came to cheer on their children as well as the students who attended.

I would also like to thank Woolworths (Albion Park) for their donation of fruit on the day.

Congratulations to the following students who have qualified for the Diocesan Carnival on May 6th in Nowra.

Age Champions and House Champion will be announced on assembly in Week 7.

U13 Girls - Coach: Mrs Hartup

Our under 13s girls had a fantastic day playing in the Secondary girls touch championships last Friday. This group have not played together before and showed some excellent team spirit as they learned from each other throughout the day. MVP goes to Taya Cambourne for her touch skills on the field, her encouragement of her team to practise drills and her enthusiasm, energy and positivity throughout the day. Notable mentions go to Maya Huetter, Tehani Aperau-Bob and Tia McCrimmon for great touch skills on the field.

MVP - Taya Cambourne

U15 Girls - Coach: Miss Sneddon

A lovely day in Fairy Meadow on Friday for the Diocesan Girls Touch Championships. The U15's competed against 10 schools across the day, landing 6th overall with some great plays throughout the day. The first game was met with a strong side from Magdalene, losing 3-0, however this did not discourage the girls as they went against John Therry scoring 4 tries. Strong bonding formed during this game as Kiara Shelton touched down 5m short of the try line twice, with celebration both times before realising these tries would not be awarded, with her third try making it to the try line. The third game against St Benedict's was again a tough side, with two tries from Cate Mansbridge and a sliding try from Emily Hollingsworth we came out on top 3-1. Indianna Surian and Noemi Branchi demonstrated their value as our dummy halves as they quickly moved the ball allowing the girls to quickly get the ball across the field.  Games 4 & 5 were disappointing but again did not leave the girls discouraged as they came back to game 6 against Mt. Carmel strong, winning 6-0, 5 of these tries being from Kiara Shelton with the most notable of the game coming from an intercept on the oppositions try line, with great assistance from Madelynne Crawford supporting her teammate the entire length of the field. Game 8 saw a great try from Angel Barbaro with team mates Hayley Frendo, Annalese Celedon and Abby Mansbridge assisting in covering great distance between each play. Overall it was a great day with all girls giving their all. They should all be proud of their efforts and sportsmanship across the day. A huge congratulations to Kiara Shelton and Emily Hollingsworth who have been chosen as shadow players for the Diocesan Team.

MVP - Angel Barbaro - For her commitment to the game, her sportsmanship towards her teammates and a positive attitude across the entire day.

Open Girls Touch - Coach: Mr Sutton

The girls rallied hard all day against some tough opposition to come away with 7 losses and 2 wins. At all times the girls displayed good sportsmanship and school spirit.

They all were supportive of each other and represented St. Joseph's with pride. Our 2 wins of the day came from the girls displaying quality settles to get good field position, combined with some fancy footwork to finish off the sets with a few tries. All girls were fair and equitable with their substitutions, ensuring everybody received similar minutes on the field. With more training, the team would be sure to add a few more wins in next year's competition. The team had some good banter on the sidelines and between the games, which made the day an enjoyable one.

MVP - Kiana Rieck

Basketball Training

Training for our basketball team started this week on Tuesday morning. This is our development squad to help progress our teams and prepare them for tournaments later this year.

Looking to improve your Health?

SJ Fit Club

Every Thursday morning, we run a fit club in the school gym from 7:45am. Students are invited to join us and help improve their overall fitness.

Get Active Fridays

Get your day started by coming along to the gym from 8:15am every Friday morning. Music is on and basketballs are out for all students to come and get moving before school starts.

School Team Nominations

Oz Tag

This year we will be taking 3 girls and 3 boys teams to the Oz Tag Gala Day. You will be required to attend at least 2 of 3 trials to be considered in this team.

Teams:

7/8 Boys

7/8 Girls

9/10 Boys

9/10 Girls

11/12 Boys

11/12 Girls

Nominations Close: Friday 15th March

Nomination Link: https://forms.gle/vhjQVh9esmqJmud69

*Late Entries will not be accepted

Sporting Success

Lewis Merceica

Congratulations to Lewis who has been selected into the Open Boys Baseball Team for CCC. Lewis is an outstanding Baseball player who plays at an elite level outside of school. We wish him all the best with this sporting pathway.

NSWCCC Cricket - Under 15 Boys

Congratulations to Ben Gooda, Ben Maloney, Cody Cartwright and Sam Huetter who have been selected to attend the NSWCCC Under 15 Boys Cricket Trial. We wish them all the best of luck for this trial next week.

NSWCCC Tennis

Congratulations to Madeleine Varga who represented our school at the NSWCCC Tournament. She played exceptionally well and just fell short of making the finals.

Southern Country AFL

Congratulations to Pacey Moylan and Deakin Cook who represented our school at the Under 15 Boys Southern Country AFL trials. These boys played so well on the day and fought hard for a position on the team going up against many Junior Giants development players from other schools in the western sydney region. Their efforts are to be commended.

18s Girls Southern Country Rugby League

Goodluck to Hunter Graham in her trial next week for the Southern Country Girls Rugby League team. She will be heading down to Canberra to compete against some of the best in the region to make selection.

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

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

St Joseph’s Sports Instagram Page 

For all things sports follow social media page @SJCHSSPORTS

Year 9 & 10 Food Technology

This week, Year 9 & 10 Food Technoogy class made pumpkin, bacon and filo scrolls.

Year 11 Cookery Class

Year 11 Cookery made Caesar Salad & Cupcakes this week and from all reports it was a hit. The class completed lots of competencies in the process.

The HSIE faculty would like to congratulate the following Stage 6 students who have been chosen as their respective student of the month for their course. They have been chosen for their hard work, effort and application to their course during the month of February.

HSIE Senior Student of the Month for February

• 11 Ancient History - Cameron White
• 12 Ancient History - Zahlia Sinclair
• 11 Business Studies - Billie Elliott
• 12 Business Studies - Bella Sacco
• 11 Legal Studies - Chantel Hristovska
• 12 Legal Studies - Taylor Darke
• 11 Modern History - Alexandra Tololeska
• 12 Modern History - Anastasia Kolyvas
• 12 Modern History - Daniel Armstrong
• 11 Society and Culture - Taylor Darke
• 12 Society and Culture - Jazmin Jensen

Well done to all of the above students!

We're thrilled to announce the installation of our captivating new Aboriginal mural in the A06 classroom! Inspired by the Rainbow Serpent, this artwork beautifully celebrates Aboriginal culture and stories.

St Joseph's is raising funds to help support Project Compassion, Caritas Australia’s annual fundraising campaign.

Project Compassion brings together supporters from across Australia to address the challenges of poverty today, and drive lasting change for a better tomorrow.

Join us to help support remote and vulnerable communities across Asia, Africa, the Pacific and in Australia. Your generosity today can help communities access clean water, food security, skills training, health and sanitation and disaster risk reduction training.

Together with your support, we can create lasting change today, and For All Future Generations!

If you would like to donate, please scan the QR Code below and follow the prompts:

Being a part of the Saint Joseph's School vocal ensemble has a myriad of benefits that extend beyond musical proficiency. The Saint Joseph's School vocal ensemble fosters a sense of community and camaraderie, offering a supportive environment where individuals collaborate towards a shared artistic goal.

Through regular rehearsals (every Tuesday Lunchtime in Music room E01) and performances, students develop discipline, time management skills, and resilience in overcoming challenges. Vocal groups also provide a platform for self-expression, allowing students to explore their creativity and build confidence in their abilities. Not to mention singing is also loads of fun!

All levels of vocal ability and every year group from 7-12 are invited to attend. 

Happy Singing!

Mrs Minns 

St Paul’s Parish would like to involve the youth of our parish (students from Year 3 to Year 12) to sing once a month at a weekend Mass. The only requirement is that students attend one rehearsal of the songs the Friday before the weekend they sing. This rehearsal time would be straight after school so parents/carers would only need to pick their child up at the church at 4.30pm.

If a student cannot sing on the date of one particular month, they just need to let me know and they can still sing other months of the year.

If your child is interested in joining the choir, please register with the parish office (Ph: 4256 2038) and give your child’s name, year at school, and a contact phone number. If the parish phone is unattended leave a message on the answering machine.

I am looking forward to working with the students and have them participate in the life of our parish.

Julie Ferguson

Abilities Unleashed School Holiday Program is a national initiative by Disability Sports Australia focused on promoting active pathways for people with disabilities aged 25 years old and under during the school holidays.

It is a Free School Holiday Clinic offering a fun and inclusive day of activities connecting people with disabilities to local sport and active recreation opportunities.

Please see below flyer with more information and how to register.