Filter Content
- From the Principal and Assistant Principal
- IMPORTANT Carpark Construction Update
- Year 7 2026/2027 Enrolment - School Tours & Information Evening
- From the Curriculum Office
- Sport News
- What's happening in CASA?
- Careers News
- Administration Reminders
- Dates to Remember
- Uniform Shop
- Learning Curve
- Shellharbour City Festival Of Sport
- Parent Workshop - Helping learner drivers become safer drivers
Welcome back to the school year for 2025.
As we begin a new school year at St Joseph’s, we warmly welcome back our students and families. We look forward to a year of growth, learning, and shared success. Our dedicated staff are excited to support each student in achieving their best academically, socially, and spiritually.
You will note there have been significant structural changes this year with the introduction of GROW classes and not having a homeroom. We anticipate a high impact on the learning culture of the school with the mantra ‘High Expectations, High Support and High Accountability’. Our students have demonstrated through their PAT data that they are highly capable of being excellent learners and we are going to expect that of them. Learning is not just regarded as academic but as social and emotional, spiritual and physical learning so there is wide scope for all students. Details of all changes are included in this newsletter.
Our 2024 HSC results were outstanding and we are looking forward to seeing Year 12 2025 build on these results through engaging in the classroom and a sustained effort throughout the year.
Welcome Year 7 2025
Our Year 7 students have been warmly welcomed into our school community this week. On Tuesday, our Year 12 students hosted a BBQ for both Year 7 and Year 12, fostering connections between our newest and most senior students. On Wednesday, Year 7 received a guard of honour from Year 12 and a round of applause from the entire school community as they entered their first whole school assembly.
Congratulations to all Year 7 students on a positive and courageous start to high school!
What’s new in 2025?
We welcome 11 new members to our teaching staff:
Miss Ashburner HSIE / Religion
Miss Burgess English / Languages
Mrs Elphick Leader of Learning - Science
Mr Gilbert TAS
Mr Hartnett TAS
Mrs Luna Wellbeing / Diverse Learning
Mrs McCann Diverse Learning
Miss Smith HSIE
Miss Stellini HSIE / Religion
Mr Veness Science
Mrs Wilkinson PDHPE / Religion
Several changes to structure and procedures were outlined to students during our opening assembly. The slides from the assembly are attached below, and we encourage parents to review them to stay informed about the key updates and messages shared with students.
Uniform
Thank you to parents and carers for providing the correct uniform for your child. On enrolment, every family said they would support the Uniform Policy of the school. Only one aspect this year has been disappointing and I would ask parents/carers to rectify over the weekend - the length of the girl's skirt is to be to the knee. Not mid-thigh or above the knee. This will be under review for the next two weeks so please support us in this area. I would also like to remind you that the sports uniform is designed to be loose shorts, not firm fitting. Please ensure that this is the case.
Communication is critical for success. Please if you or your child has an issue, communicate with the PALS to gain the assistance you need. We are in partnership for the benefit of your child and we are looking forward to the journey over this year.
Thank you for your ongoing partnership—we look forward to a fantastic year ahead!
Thank you for continued patience and cooperation during the construction of our new carpark.
Welcome back to our existing students and families and a warm welcome to all the new students and families that have joined our community this year.
Next week we will celebrate the outstanding results of our Year 12 HSC class of 2024 at our High Achievers Assembly. Whilst we were proud of the achievements of all students who completed their HSC last year it was great to be able to recognise those who did particularly well.
Stage 6 students (including Yr 10 Pathways students) have settled back into their studies quite well. We have had meetings outlining the expectations of Stage 6 and NESA requirements. These students are encouraged to start the year strongly setting high standards in their approach to learning both in class and at home. Students have been informed that changes to patterns of study must be completed by the end of week 3.
Stage 5 students have begun the year with new electives as part of their schedules. The big focus for Year 10 this term will be the beginning of the subject selection process for Year 11 subjects in 2025. This will begin in coming weeks with detail provided to students and their parents / carers in due course.
This week students have been completing PAT tests for Reading and Numeracy. These tests provide a baseline for students understanding and skill level in these learning domains. Students will complete the same tests at the end of the year to help provide a snapshot of the level of growth they have achieved in these areas across the year. The tests are also used to help finalise class lists which will happen in the next week.
We wish all students the best for 2025 and hope the year is filled with lots of learning and enjoyable experiences both in and out of the classroom. As always if there are any issues with anything related to Curriculum feel free to email or call the Curriculum office at any time.
Swimming Carnival
A reminder that on Monday 10th Feb (Week 3), we will have our Annual Swimming Carnival. This will be compulsory for all of Year 7 and be their first chance for them to compete for house points. There will be a range of inclusive activities for them on the day for both competitive and non-competitive swimmers. Please make sure parents have completed the Compass form.
Years 8-12 are encouraged to attend as competitors, but MUST swim in 2 competitive events (minimum). This is an opt in option on Compass and needs to be completed ASAP.
School Cross Country
More info to come in the following weeks!
Opportunities for Physical Activity
Did you know that physical activity helps improve self-confidence, focus and motivation as well as being a platform for improved physical, social and mental health. Here at Joey’s we value this and have 3 before school programs to offer your child.
School Team Nominations
13s Boys Rugby League Nominations
We are looking to get a 13 Boys Rugby League team together to represent St Joseph's at the upcoming Shawn Timmins Shield Competition in Week 11.
You should already be playing Rugby League outside of school to nominate for this team.
You must be turning 12 or 13 this year.
Please nominate via this form. This team will only go ahead with suitable numbers of interest and experienced players.
Nominations Close: Friday 14th Feb
Nomination Form:
13 Boys & Girls Touch Nominations
Nominations are now open for the 13s Boys & Girls Touch teams for 2025.
This competition will take place in Week 5 (Fri 28 Feb) for girls and Week 6 (Thursday 6 March) for boys.
You will have 2-3 opportunities to trial for this team before a final selection will take place.
Trials will occur on the ovals. Please keep an eye on the training schedule for when the trials begin.
Nominations close: Monday 10th February
Nomination form:
13s Boys & Girls Soccer Nominations
Please complete this form if you are interested in trialling for any of the below teams:
- 13s Boys Soccer
- 13s Girls Soccer
More information will be sent out about the trials closer to the date.
Nominations close: Week 3, Monday 10th Feb
Nomination Form:
16 Boys Rugby League Nominations
If you are interested in playing in our 16 Boys Rugby League team, you need to nominate using the below form.
This team will only go ahead if we have the numbers and experienced players. To be considered, you must have played in the 2024 rugby league season.
Nominations Close: Week 3, Friday 14th Feb
Nomination Form: https://forms.gle/L4jF4LNH5h3XiCPB7
Open Mixed Netball Team - Fast 5 Tournament
We are looking to send a team of Year 11/12 mixed gender to play in the Fast 5 Netball Tournament (Week 8).
If you are interested, please fill in the form below.
Nominations close: Friday 14th Feb
Nomination form: https://forms.gle/2EQgsmiw3ECeZe2h6
Upcoming Diocesan Representative Sport Trials
Please see the list of upcoming Diocesan Representative Trials. You are required to nominate via the forms below and your application will be reviewed by a panel of coaches. If your application is successful, you will be notified by Miss Power.
To be eligible for these nominations, your child MUST have experience in the sport and be currently playing. Representative experience is an advantage, however not compulsory.
Please see the below website for all further information:
https://www.dow.catholic.edu.au/student-experience/sport/secondary-sport-events
Any further questions, please see Miss Power.
Please note: NO late nominations will be accepted.
Southern NSW Boys U15's AFL Trials
This boys preliminary AFL trial is for students from Wollongong, Parramatta, Bathurst and Canberra/Goulburn Dioceses.
Eligibility:
Students must be turning 14 or 15 in the year of competition.
Years: 8 - 10 (13 years old are not eligible to trial due to student safety and risk assessment)
Students are required to have experience in the game of Australian Football, be playing in regular competition. Representative background in Australian Football, although not compulsory, will be an advantage
Nominations close: 13th Feb
Nomination Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMb9F9p5r2jFvwAiOqujrXcZ3BKUvTnZ_v8gfXDE_TuljXSA/viewform
Rugby League Boys 15's & 18's Selections & Girls 16s Selections
The 2025 Boys 15's & 18's & Girls 16's Wollongong Rugby League Trials to be held at Ziem's Park, Corrimal OR Centenary Park, Albion Park on Wednesday 26 March 2025. (Venue to be confirmed)
Eligibility:
15 years Students must be 14 or 15 years of age as at 31st December in the year of competition.
16 years Students must be 15 or 16 years of age as at 31 December in the year of competition
18 years Students must be 16,17 or 18 years of age as at 31st December in the year of competition.
Nominations Close: 3rd March
Nomination Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfv-rpHWkefQhQ8fsqwKVUUtQNDNCc0hy-4nwYOJFRwqUqT0g/viewform
Southern Country Girls 18's Rugby League Trials Nominations
This girls combined Rugby League trial is for students from the Wollongong diocese to gain pathway access to NSWCCC Rugby League Selections.
Eligibility:
Students are required to gave experience in the game of Rugby League, be playing in regular competition. Have not had a head injury/concussion in the past two weeks or have been cleared if head injury as occurred. Representative background in Rugby League, although not compulsory, is a major consideration for this trial.
Nominations Close: 5th March
Nomination Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc0EBq_6aWGnjDy-eEdZtBXLLwh31IGWTOnuqNlWAJo4C1Jkw/viewform
Netball 15s & Open Girls Nomination
A team of 10 players in each age division will be selected in the Wollongong representative team to go to participate in the NSWCCC Netball Selection Trials to be staged in Penrith 15's NSWCCC Selections 29 May 2025 & 18's NSWCCC Selections 30 May 2025
Eligibility:
Players who nominate should be experienced in Netball, play regularly and have representative background.
Nominations Close: 7th March
Nomination Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSentuvFuVRMOX6XN1dx9IkGMORgVhDB1XR9nXdnE7eJ7QyhGg/viewform
18s Boys & Girls Football (Soccer)
Due to the success of last year's selection process through an individual trial. The secondary sports council will be conducting an individual trial to select the 2025 18's Boys & Girls Wollongong representative teams.
Eligibility to nominate:
- students must be selected as members of their school based 18's team
- students must participate in the Opens Wollongong Schools Championships day
- students nomination will be reviewed and offered a position at the selection trial
Students who nominate for the Open selection trial, need to meet the following criteria:
Be available to represent Wollongong 27 & 28 May at the NSWCCC Football Championships
should be playing regularly in a registered association
be highly skilled and advanced in their Football skills
have representative level experience. e.g. Youth grade, reserve, first grade and or NPL1 (should only be recommended standard of student nomination)
Be a member of their school Opens Football team and participated in the Diocese Championships Day with their school team
Please read the information on the nomination form.
Nominations close: April 4th
Nomination form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScHKZsfaoBV_GcsY6OXLwsvS_dVVNhBZrPSkw5Xh-HdOeCeyQ/viewform
Upcoming NSWCCC Trials 2025
If your child plays at a high/rep level for their sport and is keen on trialling for a NSWCCC team, please register via the link below:
https://csnsw.sport/
Please note:
- No late entries are accepted.
- Students attending these trials should be at a representative level/standard.
- Further information regarding each sport is available on the website (see link above)
For assistance with registering your child please see the document below:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kFW57cps5mTHPK7PfJMvpVK4qtM651keNVZcu014gVQ/edit
If there are any further issues please contact me:
powers01@dow.catholic.edu.au
NSWCCC 2025 Individual Triathlon
Entries are now open for the 2025 NSW All Schools Triathlon for 26 February at Penrith. Individual entries are through the Sports Unit DASH system (not the CSNSW Sport portal). Entry is $60 per participant.
NSWCCC Tennis Selections - close date 21 February 2025 - Selection date - Monday, 3 March at North Parramatta Tennis Courts - More information https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/tennis
NSWCCC Golf Selections - close date 21 February 2025 - Selection date Monday, 3 March at Tuncurry Golf Club - More information https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/golf
NSWCCC Baseball Selections - close date 22 February 2025 TBC - Selection date - 5 March at Castle Glen 1 & 2, Castle Hill - More information https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/baseball
CASA Activities for Years 7-9
Students in Years 7-9 are set to engage in an exciting and dynamic CASA program that will bring together competition, teamwork, and fun. Throughout the event, students will participate in a range of activities designed to challenge their skills, build camaraderie, and foster house spirit.
The CASA competition will see students competing in their house groups—Keira, Kembla, Macquarie, Marshall, and Warrigal. Each house will have the opportunity to earn points through both participation and performance, making every student’s involvement valuable in the overall standings.
A variety of activities will be on offer to cater to different interests and skill sets. Sporting games will provide an opportunity for students to test their physical abilities in a fun and competitive environment. Whether it’s team sports or individual challenges, these games will encourage fitness, strategy, and sportsmanship.
For those who prefer a more strategic and mentally engaging activity, the Games Club will offer board games, card games, and other challenges that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This is a great way for students to earn points for their house while enjoying friendly competition in a relaxed setting.
Drama games will also be available for students who enjoy creativity and performance. These games will allow participants to showcase their improvisation skills, teamwork, and confidence through various engaging and entertaining activities.
The CASA program encourages all students to take part, as points are awarded not only for victories but also for participation. The more students engage in the activities, the better their house’s chances of securing the top spot.
With a mix of sports, strategy, and creativity, the CASA program promises to be an exciting experience for all involved. Let the competition begin!
2025 SCHOOL FEE GENERAL INFORMATION
School fees for 2025 will be invoiced and statements will be issued 7 February with annual or first instalment payment due on 28 February 2025. All school fees are 30 days accounts payable in full unless you wish to pay by instalment or agreement (Both explained below). You may view school fees in the Compass Parent Portal.
IF YOU WISH TO PAY BY INSTALMENTS
Many families have already elected to pay their school fees by instalments. If you wish to avail yourself of this option, please complete a Request to Pay by Instalment Form which is available on St Joseph’s website or in the holder on the wall at St Joseph’s finance office. On completion of the request either email it to instalments@dow.catholic.edu.
Completion of a Request to pay by instalment IS NOT an authority for payment from your bank account, you need to setup BPay or a regular payment from your bank.
IF YOU WISH TO PAY BY AGREEMENTS
Many families wish for a more flexible payment arrangement paying irregular lump sums throughout the year ensuring fees are paid in full by year end or an annual payment at tax time or after the 30 days deadline in February have lapsed. Your Agreements need to be updated yearly, please contact St Joseph’s Finance office by phone 4230 8525 or email accounts@sjchsdow.catholic.
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.
SCHOOL FEE ACCOUNT ENQUIRIES
The invoicing of school fees and the distribution of school fee statements each month, is carried out by the Catholic Education Office. Payment of fees, whether as an annual payment or payment by instalments is due on the date/s provided on your school fee statement.
St Joseph’s will always be your point of contact for matters pertaining to fees. If you wish to discuss your school fee account, please contact St Joseph’s finance office.
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.
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.
For those families that received a Fee Concession in 2024, you will receive an email prior to your annual review date attaching a further Application for Fee Concession. If you wish to submit the application, please do so at your child’s school. Please note, if you have children in more than one school, it will only be necessary to submit one application.
TERM 1 2025
February
Monday 10
Swimming Carnival
All Year 7 students and competitors only from
Year 8 - 12
Tuesday 11
HSC High Achievers Presentation - 8.15am in the gym
Morning Tea for High Achievers in the gym
Thursday 13
School ID Photos - Full summer school uniform
Tuesday 18
Year 7 Information session, SRC Induction and Parent/Carer welcome BBQ
6pm
March
Tuesday 4
Shrove Tuesday
Year 7 2026/2027 Information Evening and Tours
Wednesday 5
Ash Wednesday
Friday 7
Cross Country Carnival
Wednesday 19
Feast of St Joseph
Wednesday 19 to Friday 21
Year 12 Retreat
Wednesday 12 to Thursday 24
NAPLAN testing window
April
Tuesday 8
Year 7 Immunisations
Friday 11
Last day of Term 1
TRADING HOURS
Monday 11:30 am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 1:30pm
ORDERING UNIFORMS
Online Ordering - click link below
By Appointment - click link below
A FREE 2 hour Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers Parent Workshop is scheduled for Monday 10 February 2025 at 6pm in the Shellharbour Civic Centre Auditorium.
The Workshop aims to help you with practical advice about:
- Supervising learner drivers
- Completing the learner driver log book
- Providing on road driver practise
- L & P Plate licence laws
Bookings are essential
Book online: https://forms.office.com/r/Es4Vh9UU61
