The end of Term 3 is a bittersweet moment with Year 12 2024 leaving.

It is wonderful to see the beautiful young people that they have grown up into and are so ready to leave and take on the world. However as a school staff we are also sad to see them leave after being in our care for the majority of staff, for the past six years.

I hope you have had the opportunity to see the leaving events on our school socials.

My thanks to the Year 12 leaders of 2024. They have been a magnificent group of young people who have worked hard for this community under the leadership of Isabelle and Lucas. I wish all Year 12 well on the next stage of their journey in life.

A Prayer for Year 12 Students

Lord, we pray for our Year 12 students as they finish

their last week of school and get ready to begin their

HSC exams. We pray You will fill their hearts with perfect

peace that only comes from You; give them clarity of

thought to remember the things they have studied.

We ask that the desires of this year's graduates will align with your heart and your will for them.

Give them the strength and stamina to pursue their dreams,

and may they achieve success in all that they accomplish.

We ask this in Jesus’ name, 

Amen.

We also had our house assembly this week - Congratulations to the winning house of Kembla. It is great to see the spirit of the students growing in this arena.

Please note that we are starting with our new bell times 8:15 am - 2:40 pm from the Term 4 on Monday 14 October 2024. I am sure this will be an adjustment and there will be teething problems but for the majority of the school it will enhance the students capacity to engage in their learning and maintain a balance in their lives.

Mrs Sue Kennedy is going on leave for Term 4 and will not be returning as she sets her sights on retirement. I would like to thank her for the 37 years of service to this community through her various roles as HSIE teacher, Careers Advisor, Year Coordinator and TAPS role. I wish her well in her retirement and that she enjoys a new phase of life.

Mrs Madaschi is also going on Parental leave and will be returning to school after 12 months. We wish her well for the arrival of a new baby for her family. 

Mr Crouch has been with us for two terms and we wish him well in his  new position.

I wish all students, families and staff a safe and restful break and be ready to return to the very busy Term 4.

Our New School Hours

As we prepare for the final term of the school year, we move into the biggest change to our school routine since the 1980s. As communicated to families last week, starting from Term 4, we will be implementing new school bell times. The school day will now commence earlier, with homeroom commencing at 8:15 am, and students will finish the day earlier at 2:40 pm.

This change is designed to address transport issues and will subsequently enhance learning opportunities and give students more flexibility in the afternoon. However, with any change to routine, it’s natural for students to take time to adjust. To support our students and families, we want to offer some practical strategies for easing into this transition smoothly.

Gradually Shift Bedtime: Encourage students to go to bed 15–20 minutes earlier each night during the week before Term 4 to help reset their internal body clock.

Consistent Sleep Routine: Maintain a regular sleep and wake schedule, including weekends, to reinforce the body’s natural sleep cycle.

Prepare the Night Before: Lay out uniforms, pack bags, and prepare lunch the night before to reduce morning stress.

Healthy Morning Routine: Create a calm morning routine, leaving time for breakfast, which is vital for energy and focus.

Limit Screen Time: Reduce screen use at least 30 minutes before bed to improve sleep quality.

Use Alarms: Set alarms to ensure enough time for getting ready and arriving on time.

Promote Responsibility: Emphasise punctuality, with all students required in Homeroom by 8:15 am to avoid missing valuable information. 

Plan Transport: Review and adjust travel schedules to account for the earlier start.

A Focus on Punctuality in Term 4

Punctuality sets a positive tone for the day and reflects a strong commitment to learning. Arriving on time allows students to settle into their day and fully engage in Homeroom activities. Term 4 will be a critical period as we strive to finish the year strong, and we appreciate your support in ensuring that all students attend school punctually each day.

Students who arrive at school late will no longer be able to walk into Homeroom late without having first gone to the Front Office and officially signed in late. Partial Attendance will show on students' reports so it is important that they now get back into the routine of being punctual now that buses are sorted.

We look forward to seeing our students thrive in the new routine.

Year 12 2025 Commerative Jackets

On Wednesday, Year 11 students who were present at school were presented with their Year 12 Jacket.

The senior jacket does not replace the school blazer which is a compulsory part of our winter school uniform. As your child approaches their final year of school, we would like to outline our expectations regarding the wearing of their senior school jackets and blazers. 

Students of the Year 12 2025 cohort will be expected to adhere to the following guidelines:

Term 4 2024 and Term 1 2025 - Senior jackets are an optional item that can be worn on Thursday and Friday ONLY.

Term 2 and Term 3 2025 - Senior jackets are an optional item that can be worn on Thursday and Friday ONLY. The school blazer will be worn on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, and at any other formal events as communicated by the school.

The students have been made aware that additional days may be granted later in Year 12 if they continue to demonstrate their support of our school values and positive application to their learning. 

Whilst this arrangement is a change to recent years, it strikes a balance between maximising the use of the School Blazer which comes at a significant cost to families and the optional Commemorative Jacket which is not an official part of the school uniform. 

Please note the Commemorative Uniform section of our Uniform and Grooming Policy:

The school office hours commencing in term 4 will be 7:45am to 3:00pm. The library will remain open for "Mundy" on Monday afternoons until 4:15pm.

Canteen lunch orders will close at 8:15am daily.

All students are required to be in Homeroom by 8:15am.

New Bell Times:

Bus Timetable Adjustments:

Farewell Yr 12

Congratulations to Year 12 who finished their formal lessons this week. The functions to celebrate this occasion throughout the week were a testament to the work and perseverance of this year group. Congratulations also to those students who were recognised in various capacities for their academic performances across the year.  All that remains now are the HSC exams, good luck with your preparations in coming weeks and we are confident that you will do well during your final exams early next term.

Year 11

Students finished their end of year exams this week. Year 11 will return to classes at the start of next term to begin their HSC courses. Enjoy the break and come back refreshed, energised, organised and ready to start the HSC course in a positive fashion.

2025 Electives

Students in Years 10 and 9 will be receiving a confirmation of their electives for 2025 this week. We hope to have confirmation for Year 9 2025 ready as well but this will likely be early next term.

If there are any issues with electives please contact the curriculum office at the start of Term 4. 

Home Study Tips

Last newsletter we provided tips on how to support your student with their preparations to undertake home study. Below are some examples of different strategies/approaches to home study for students to consider. For those new to the process it is suggested you take time to try each approach. Moving forward, stick with the ones that best suit your learning style as well as the nature of the subject you are studying for eg the approach used for english may not be as suitable as the approach for maths or science.

Top Study Techniques for Success

Studying effectively is more than just rereading notes! Here are a few tried and true methods to help students absorb information and prepare for assessments.

1. Pomodoro Technique: Study in Bursts

The Pomodoro Technique is perfect for students who find it hard to focus for long periods. It involves working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. After four “Pomodoros,” take a longer break (15-30 minutes). This method helps keep the brain fresh and focused.

2. Active Recall: Boost Retention

Instead of passively reading, quiz yourself on the material. Write down questions as you study and test yourself regularly. This forces the brain to retrieve information, strengthening memory. Flashcards or apps like Quizlet are great tools for active recall.

3. Mind Mapping: Visualize Concepts

For students who are visual learners, mind maps can be a powerful tool. Start with a central concept and branch out to related topics, creating a visual “map” of the subject. This technique helps in organising complex ideas and seeing the connections between them.

4. Teach What You Learn: Solidify Understanding

One of the best ways to learn is to teach. Whether it's explaining a concept to a friend, family member, or even pretending to teach an imaginary class, this method deepens understanding. If you can explain it simply, you’ve mastered it!

5. SQ3R: A Reading Strategy

The SQ3R method is ideal for comprehending reading materials. It stands for:

Survey: Skim the text to get an overview.

Question: Ask questions about the content.

Read: Read thoroughly with the questions in mind.

Recite: Summarise key points.

Review: Revisit the material to reinforce learning.

6. Study Groups: Collaborate and Learn Together

Studying with classmates can bring new perspectives and help clarify difficult concepts. Discussion encourages active engagement with the material. Just make sure the group stays focused!

7. Spaced Repetition: Don’t Cram!

Cramming might work short-term, but for long-term retention, spaced repetition is key. Review material over increasing intervals of time (e.g. 1 day, 3 days, 1 week). This method helps move information from short-term to long-term memory.

8. Use Apps and Tools: Make Studying Interactive

There are many apps that can make studying more interactive and fun. Tools like Evernote for note-taking, Anki for spaced repetition, or Trello for organising tasks can help students stay on top of their workload.

9. Create a Study Schedule: Stay Organised

Encourage students to plan their study time using a schedule or planner. Breaking up subjects into manageable chunks and setting specific goals for each study session can prevent last-minute stress.

10. Prioritise Self-Care: Stay Healthy

It’s important to remind students that adequate sleep, regular exercise, and a healthy diet are essential for optimal brain function. Short breaks, fresh air, and staying hydrated can make a big difference in focus and energy levels.

These techniques not only make studying more efficient but also help students develop strong habits that will benefit them throughout their academic journey. Encourage students to try different methods to see what works best for them!

Two of our Youth Ministry Leaders represented St Jospeph's at the Diocesan launch of Catholic Mission month. 

The month of October is dedicated to mission, which is our call to act justly and look outwardly to help others. This year we will focus on raising awareness and fundraising for disadvantaged children in Mongolia. By supporting this charity, we are living out our mission as Catholics, making God's love visible to all in our world. 

St Joseph's will be running Socktober initiatives in Term 4 to kick goals for good! Please keep an eye out on Compass to see how to get involved and whart events will be held next term.

Years 9 and 10 Food Technology

Term 3 - Project Based Learning

In PDHPE this term, Year 10 students engaged in Project Based Learning for our Future Challenges unit. They were given the driving question:

“ What initiatives could help to assist young people in overcoming future life challenges?” 

The students watched an entry clip and were asked to design a product, service or initiative to help individuals or groups of young people overcome future life challenges. Each group presented their final projects to their PDHPE teachers earlier this week with the top 5 projects moving into the ‘Shark Tank’ on Wednesday. 

In the Shark Tank today, each group was given 8 minutes to pitch their project to our panel of ‘Sharks’.  

The judges were very impressed and said this year's projects were some of the best they have seen. The panel of ‘Sharks’ encouraged all our groups who presented today to apply for the STEM MAD nominations next year.

Congratulations to the following groups who took out the winners of this year's Shark Tank. 

Runners up: Blueprint (Tamara, Isabella, Montana & Abbey) 

Winners: Pinky Promise (Katelyn, Rebecca & Mia)

SJCHS Trivia Night

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

The theme for the night is ‘All Things Sport’, so come dressed in your best sporting 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. 

If you or someone you know is able to donate prizes for this night, please get in touch with our school.

Booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/CUMYZ

Rugby 7's State Championships

Last week the U/16 Girls Rugby 7's team travelled to Sydney for the NSW Championships. Team Coach Mr Shanahan flew to Europe so was unable to attend (doesn't get more Rugby that that!!) but he left no stone unturned in their preparation for the day.

First game was against Central Coast Sports High. The side started nervously but hung in early. Too many mistakes and turnovers proved costly as the superior speed and aggression at the breakdown saw a first up loss ensue against the side who would be the eventual champions of the day. 

Next up was a return game against local foes St Mary's with the side looking to redeem itself after being defeated in the previous encounter. From the kick off the girls were a little more confident and went toe to toe in the early stages racking up a 19-14 lead at half time.  

Unfortunately the mistakes evident in the first game returned in the second half and two late tries saw St Mary's escape with a 28-19 victory.

The rest of the day unfolded in a similar vein with the girls holding their own early but not quite having the same technical skill level as their opponents who edged them out in each game. 

The girls deserve a big pat on the back for the effort they put into this event. Rugby is a very technical game and combined with the physical rigours of 7 a side the way the girls stepped out of their comfort zone to take on this challenge and fly the Joey's flag was pleasing to see. Special shout out to Latisha A, Emily H, Emma Lee S, Lily B and Annalese C who played hard all day but all the girls involved should be proud of their efforts.

Thanks to all the parents who travelled up and supported the girls on the day. I am sure Mr Shannahan will be keen to get the girls together and continue preparing the girls for next year once he returns from his European vacation. 

MVP - Latisha Akuoko 

Mr Moran
Shanno's fill in!!

NSWCCC Berg Shield - Round 1

Last Friday, the Junior cricket team took on John Therry Catholic College in Round 1 of the NSWCCC Berg Shield. We came away with a comfortable win.

Bowling first, John Therry scraped together 95 runs. We had them at 8-40. It was a very quick outfield so we knew this was under par. Jaxon Moran picked up a wicket with his first ball and finished with 3 wickets. Sam Huetter and Mitch Whalan picked up 2 wickets each. Ben Maloney, Zac Tobin and Kobe Healy all chipped in with 1 wicket.  

Cody Cartwright and Ben Gooda opened the batting and did it comfortably. Cody finished with 49 and Ben was 32 not out.

We chased them down in the 10th over. Great win and great start to the season.

NSWCCC Athletics

Last week we had 6 students represent St Joseph's as part of the Wollongong Diocesan Athletics team. They headed up to Sydney Olympic park to take on the state at NSWCCC. I was lucky enough to be team manager on the day and it was great to see our students out there representing our school at such a high level. Congratulations to all these athletes.

Basketball Referee Gala Day

A massive thank you to the 10 students who were selected to represent St Joseph’s at the Primary school Basketball Gala Day to referee the games. They headed to Berkeley Stadium and Croome Stadium to assist in the running of these gala days.

Thomas Hofman

Nash Burling

Archie Faulks

Austin Lewis

Uhaan Zamel

Taj Miller

Jack Woodward

Brady Tomasi

Solomon Liu

Sophie Kennedy

Upcoming Events

Mixed Touch Footy Nominations

Please use the below nomination form for the 2024 St Joseph's U16s Mixed Touch Team. 

This competition will take place in Week 6 (Tuesday 19th November).

Nominations close: Week 1, Friday 18th October

Nominate here: https://forms.gle/ZVfkPnj1SwVcAMK46

Netball Registrations

Sporting Success

Congratulations to Jacob and Julius Ong who have been in Queensland competing at Australian All Schools Jiu Jitsu Championships. Both boys placed 2nd in their respective age groups.

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 new social media page. 

SJCHS SPORTS

The Young Eyes Festival of Innovation was hosted by Zig Zag Hub as an annual event. It aims to spotlight rising stars from Illawarra and Shoalhaven high schools participating in our Entrepreneurial Program. Business Studies and Commerce students from St Joseph’s been involved with the workshops leading to seven of our students being selected to go into the  shark tank.

We extend our congratulations to our two finalists : Taylor Darke and Kiana Rieck who were selected out of 100 students to be two of the twelve finalists at the Final of Young Eyes Festival of Innovation held 19th September at the INNOVATION CAMPUS at North Wollongong.

Both Kiana and Taylor made it as top three finalists. Taylor has been offered mentoring to develop her product and Kiana even though she didn’t win, I’m sure will be able to put her product Ki Keys into production and launch it on the market! Taylor’s product called Femme Fatale will be produced in the near future. Both girls have been successful in developing their products- CONGRATULATIONS Kiana and Taylor.

Sue Kennedy

Careers Advisor

Trading will resume Thursday 10 October

NORMAL TRADING HOURS

Monday 11:30 am - 4:30pm

Thursday 8:30am - 1:30pm

ORDERING UNIFORMS

Online Ordering - click link below

ONLINE ORDERING

By Appointment - click link below

BY APPOINTMENT

TERM 3 2024

September

27th - Last Day Term 3

October

14th - First day of Term 4

15th - HSC Exams commence

17th - 2025 School Leaders Induction Ceremony

21st - 25th - VET Work Placement

SCHOOL FEES

Payment can be made by eftpos, Bpay and in cash. School fees are important, the school relies on fees and the payment of fees is part of the agreement you signed with the school upon enrolment of your child/ren.  If your account is overdue please contact the finance office to discuss a payment plan.

REMINDERS FOR LATE PAYMENTS

These reminders are automatically generated based on the number of days a payment is overdue and are distributed by the Catholic Education Office.  For those families that may have difficulty in paying their school fees, these reminders may cause some distress. This is not our intention.  Our intention is to manage the collection of school fee accounts with new technology.

DIFFICULTY WITH PAYMENT

If you are experiencing financial difficulty and unable to increase your payments or pay, there are concessions available. We encourage you to contact St Joseph’s to discuss an arrangement that will assist you meet your commitments.  This includes the completion of a Diocesan Application for Fee Concession which is available from the holder on the wall at St Joseph’s finance office or on school website.  

Once the completed Fee Concession form is received, the school may be able to write off some of your outstanding fee balance. Be reassured that your situation will be treated with strict confidentiality and respect for your circumstances. 

We are delighted to invite you to a special CEnet AI Trial, Experimentation, and Feedback Night at St. Joseph's on Tuesday, October 22nd, 2024 at 5:00 pm in the staff common room.

St. Joseph's has been chosen as a trial school to test the capabilities of a new Generative Artificial Intelligence system. "CeChat" has functions similar to Chat GPT but with a more refined focus on education. This is an exciting opportunity for our school, and we are keen to gather your feedback on its potential place in our educational ecosystem.

During the event, you will have the chance to:

Learn more about the new Gen AI system and its potential applications in education.

Observe demonstrations of the system in action.

Participate in hands-on experiments and activities with the system.

Share your thoughts and feedback with our team of experts.

This technology has the potential to revolutionise education, and we value your input in shaping its future at St. Joseph's.

As part of this night, we will also be hosting a P&F (Parents and Friends Association) meeting.

Please RSVP to dennellyh01@dow.catholic.edu.au by October 15th to confirm your attendance. Light refreshments will be served.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Heath Dennelly
Learning Technologies Coordinator

The Catholic Schools Parents Australia (CSPA) 2024 Parent Survey on Student Wellbeing and Learning is seeking your perspective as parents/carers of children who attend a Catholic School in Australia.

You are invited to share your views on existing and emerging affirmations and/or challenges in relation to your child/children's wellbeing and learning. Please consider completing this anonymous, confidential and completely voluntary online survey.

More information about the study, how to participate, and how to have questions answered, can be found within the attached flyer.

Thank you for your interest.

ClearlyMe is a mental health app to see teens through tough times. ClearlyMe is designed for teens aged 12-17 and can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play Store. See the attached flyer for more information.