NAPLAN Results - Learning is Alive at Joey's!

In Week 8 of Term 1, our Year 7 and Year 9 students sat the NAPLAN tests alongside their peers across Australia. This week, we have begun receiving our initial school results, and we are incredibly pleased with what we are seeing.

At St Joseph’s, our focus is not just on where students finish, but on how far they grow. We believe that great teaching is measured by student growth, and growth is the clearest evidence that learning is alive.

We are proud to report that learning is very much alive and thriving at Joey’s.

Our Year 9 cohort has recorded the highest mean growth across all five NAPLAN test domains; Reading, Writing, Numeracy, Spelling, and Grammar & Punctuation, when compared to the other eight diocesan secondary schools in our region. Even more impressively, they have performed above the national mean in all five domains, and we have seen a clear increase in the percentage of students achieving at or above proficiency.

This is a fantastic achievement, and a testament to the commitment of our students, families, and teachers. When I spoke with Year 9 before their Writing test, I encouraged them to give their best and to walk away proud of their efforts. I also made them a deal, if they achieved the highest growth in one or more domains across the diocese, I’d put on a BBQ lunch. Let’s just say... food is a powerful motivator!

Our Year 7 cohort, drawn from 29 different primary schools, brings a wide range of educational backgrounds. Their NAPLAN results are aligned with our earlier PAT testing, and we have already begun targeted planning to support their progress. At Joey’s, we have a strong record of achieving meaningful growth between Year 7 and Year 9 and we are confident this group will continue that tradition.

School Photo Day

Thank you to the large majority of students who presented themselves so well on School Photo Day. It was great to see pride in personal presentation and uniform. The challenge now is to maintain that same high standard every day.

Students who missed their photo or need to address uniform issues will have the opportunity to take part in Catch-Up Photo Day on Monday 16 June.

Reminder: Mobile Phones and AirPods

We remind students and families of our Electronic Communication Device Policy. Mobile phones should be turned off and stored in bags during school hours. AirPods should only be used when a teacher explicitly permits their use for educational purposes. Students should not be walking around the school with them in their ears.

We’ve observed a rise in inappropriate use during class, which distracts from learning and creates unnecessary challenges for staff. These expectations align with the NSW Government’s mobile phone ban during school hours, and we appreciate your ongoing support in reinforcing them.

Stage 5-6 Assessment Weeks

Assessment weeks are wrapping up this week. Staff are now busy finalising assessment grades, observations etc to allow them to finalise grades and complete reports. This does not mean it is time for students to take a step back. Students are reminded that everything they do in class counts meaning the work completed in class will count towards their final semester grade.

Trial HSC Exam Schedule

The Trial HSC exam schedule was released to students this week. Students have until early Week 7 to advise of any issues before the schedule is locked in.

During the Trial HSC exam period, Year 12 students will have flexible attendance meaning they are only required at school when their exams are on. The library is available to assist students in their preparations, but students can make their way to and from school throughout the exam period if they prefer. For Year 11 students doing Pathway subjects will be entitled to one full day preparation for any 2 unit subject they are doing prior to their exam. This can be spent preparing at home or in the library. Students doing 1 unit SOR will be entitled to a half day of preparation (leaving at the end of pd 4) prior to their exam. Students will be shared a form via email in the coming weeks where they can nominate the preparation day(s) they intend to take.

Stage 6 Subject Selection Schedule 2026

This week we started the formal activities with Year 10 to help guide them through the process of Subject Selection for Years 11 & 12 2026/2027. A timeline of the process that will be followed for the next few weeks was shared via Compass at the start of the week. On Wednesday we shared the 2026 Subject Selection Handbook with Year 10 students and families via Compass. This contains a deal of information regarding NESA requirements for qualification of the RoSA and HSC, Subject Selection process and a summary of Subjects being offered. Students and their families are asked to review this and ensure they are meeting all the requirements listed when considering their choices.

This week we have had two meetings with Year 10. The focus of these meetings looking at the laws around education beyond Year 10 and the expectations of students completing HSC courses. Next week we will be holding our Information night. Information regarding the night was posted in Week 5 - it is an expectation that students and at least 1 member of the students family (where possible) attend the event. Further activities linked to the process will continue across the term. Again, please refer to the timeline previously shared for further details.

Year 12 Cookery

Year 12 Cookery II class, made a range of yummy breads this week.

We prepared the doughs on Tuesday and left them to ferment, and hydrolyse over two days. Then we shaped and baked them on Thursday. We made a focaccia with caramelised red onion and balsamic vinegar topping, cheese and chilli bread twists, Naan breads to show that bread can be pan fried, then a very yummy big batch of cinnamon rolls-layered with brown sugar, caramel sauce and diced apple. They class got to share this with their lucky friends!

This week, Year 12 also made a dish of spiced Lamb Koftas, baba ganoush, minted, lemon grilled zucchini salad and tahini all wrapped in a Lebanese bread. Lots of grilling, portioning along with many other competencies assessed and the class enjoyed their lunch.

Year 8 Technology - Engineering

Mr Ferderer's Year 8 Technology Engineering class finished their formal task this week completing a wooden crane. The winning crane lifted over 1 kg of weight. Students learnt lots of problem solving skills. Thank you to Mr Hartnett who took the class for half the practical lessons.

Year 7 Food Technology

Miss Lyddiard helped Year 7 Technology create a yummy batch of Butterscotch Swirls this week.

On Wednesday 29th May, our enthusiastic H2GP (Hydrogen Car Grand Prix) team had the exciting opportunity to take part in a track test day at Keira High School. All team members are Year 7 students and part of our school’s Ignite program, proudly representing St Joseph's in this innovative and sustainability-focused initiative.

Led by team coordinator Mrs Jones and captained by Alivia Jarvis, the team spent the day testing their hydrogen-powered car alongside eight other teams from six different schools. The event was more than just a trial run — it was a chance to collaborate, share ideas, and gain valuable experience in preparation for upcoming competitions.

The atmosphere throughout the day was supportive, inclusive, and filled with a genuine spirit of teamwork. Our students displayed impressive problem-solving skills, curiosity, and determination as they navigated the challenges of the track and fine-tuned their vehicle’s performance.

The team has a follow up test day at C1 speed kart track on the 20th June where they will refine and test their tactics, hydrogen fuel economy and pit stops before the race competition day on the 24th July at Wollongong University.

Congratulations to the St Joseph's H2GP team for representing our school with such energy and enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in this exciting STEM journey!

Recent News and Events

Spotlight on Year 10 Subject Selection

Throughout Term 2, 2025, I have been meeting individually with Year 10 students to explore their post-school pathways and how these may influence their subject selections for Years 11 and 12. It has been encouraging to see that many students already have a sense of their interests, strengths, and personality traits, and how these align with potential future careers. These conversations are proving to be a valuable tool in helping students make informed and thoughtful decisions about the subjects that best support their aspirations. This guidance forms part of a broader, carefully structured program running throughout the term, aimed at helping students design an educational pathway that meets their individual goals and needs.

Below is a list of upcoming events designed to expose our Year 10 students to a wide range of post-school opportunities. These experiences will encourage students to explore various pathways, reflect on how each aligns with their individual interests and strengths, and consider which subject choices will best support their future aspirations.

Upcoming Events at Joeys

St Joseph's Apprenticeship Careers Exhibition - 10 June 2025

This event will offer our senior students a valuable opportunity to explore various industries and career prospects within the Illawarra/Shoalhaven region.

We have secured representatives from a wide array of industries and training organizations. Each representative will be stationed at their own 'Industry Conversation Table.'

Students will rotate between tables, allowing each representative to discuss topics such as: a typical day in their profession, training pathways, employer expectations (including desired skills and qualities in new employees), tips on job preparation, strategies for securing employment, and future career opportunities within their industry.

All students from Year 10 will attend the event, along with students in Years 11 and 12 currently enrolled in VET courses.

Below is list of exhibitors attending next week’s expo:

UOW Y12 Early Entry Presentation + Y10 HSC Subject Selection unpacked - 16 June 2025

On Monday, June 16, 2025, our UOW school liaison officer, James Terry, will visit St Joseph’s. Accompanying him will be current university students who will assist our Year 12 students with their early entry and UAC applications. Additionally, James will conduct a separate session for our Year 10 students, guiding them through the HSC subject selection process and exploring pathways into university.

Nursing & Health Careers Workshop - 19 June 2025

University of Wollongong (UOW), wl be running a Nursing & Health Careers Workshop targeted at Years 10-11 students who have a genuine interest in pursuing a career in nursing or healthcare.

Activities for the day include:

• Basic health/clinical and career pathway information into nursing and other health careers
• Hands-on practical activities in Nursing & Exercise Science
• An expo area with health industry professionals from areas like Age & Disability Care and Occupational Health

Expressions of Interest have now closed for this event.

Term 1 Sport Value Awards

The Term 1 Sport Value Awards recognise students in our sporting teams who show respect, courage and service. These students have been nominated by their coaches over sporting events from this term.

Respect:

The respect awards go to students who show exemplary behaviour towards their coach, team members and also students and staff from other schools. These students are committed to their training and making the team better as well as being a role model of what it means to be a Joey’s student.

Courage:

The courage awards go to students who show leadership in training, who continually get out of their comfort zone, students who work hard to improve and students who are willing to try new things.

Service:

The service awards go to students who assist others who are in need. This may be coaching other students, assisting their coach with equipment and training as well as serving the school by refereeing or coaching duties at sporting events.

Athletics Carnival - Overall House Winner & Age Champions

Age Champions

Champion House

1st - Kembla (408)

2nd - Marshall (405)

3rd - Keira (365)

4th - Macquarie (277)

5th Warrigal (245)

Records Broken

We had two school records broken on the day. Congratulations to:

• Caitlyn Mare - 16 yrs Female Shot Put - 8.66m
• Isabella Clowes - 15 yrs Female Shot Put - 9.56m

Diocesan Cross Country Representatives

Unfortunately due to wet weather conditions the back up at Willandra had to be cancelled which meant this year's Dio Cross Country moved to a selection trial by nomination only. We had 5 students represent our school with 2 continuing on to NSWCCC in the next few weeks. Congratulations to the following students:

• Lucinda Akele - 8th
• Andre Akele - 14th
• Cooper Shepherd - 10th
• Bianca de Swardt - 1st (moving on to NSWCCC)
• Ashton Byrne - 5th (moving on to NSWCCC)

NSW All Schools Swimming

Congratulations to Katelyn Blissett and Te Ari’i Aperau-Bob who represented our school and CCC at the NSW All Schools Swimming Championships.

Katelyn

200m MC Freestyle Relay – 6th place

50m MC Backstroke – 7th place

100m MC Backstroke – 7th place

50m MC Butterfly – 7th place

Te Ari’i

8th Place -100m Backstroke

9th Place - 50m Backstroke

NSW All Schools AFL

Congratulations to Emily Hollingsworth who attended the NSW All Schools AFL tournament in Albury this week as part of the CCC U15 Girls AFL Team. Emily was named captain of the team and showed great leadership over the three days. Her hard work and dedication to training is definitely paying off with her exemplary skill and talent on showcase against the CIS & CHS teams. Emily was named MVP of the CCC team as well as Player of the Tournament. She has also been named in the NSW All School steam for the third year in a row where she will go to Queensland early next term to compete. Congratulations Emily and good luck at the next level.

Diocesan Open Girls Football

Congratulations to Lola Garcia who represented the Wollongong Diocese at the CCC Football Championships last week. Her team was undefeated and took out the championship trophy. Well done Lola.

Sporting Success:

Congratulations to Sophie Rumble and Tahlia Tanevski who last year won a bid to compete at both The Finals, as well as The Summit Championships in Orlando, Florida in May 2025 for Cheer.. In Cheerleading, bids are won by placing first in your division at an Australian competition. The girls and their club competed against teams from all over the world, and very excitedly placed first in their division for Cheer, making them international champions, and a very exciting 2nd place in Hip Hop. Well done girls!

Te Ari'i Aperau-Bob

Congratulations to Te Ari’i who has been selected to represent the Cook Islands in Palau at the end of this month. We wish him all the best with his training in the lead up and the competition of taking on the greater pacific.

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. Your URGENT attention to school fees payments is requested. For those falling behind we urge you to make every effort to bring your account up to date.

If you are experiencing financial difficulties and are unable to make payments, please contact the finance office or email accounts@sjchsdow.catholic.edu.au

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.

On Thursday 12th June, our SRC students will be running a lunchtime soup fundraiser. All money raised will go towards the Vinnies Winter Appeal. 

Get Ready to Go Pink with Legally Blonde Jr

Our talented students from years 7-12 are bringing the fabulously fun and empowering story of Legally Blonde Junior to the stage! Based on the beloved movie and Broadway musical, this high-energy show follows the journey of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who appears to have it all. When her boyfriend, Warner breaks up with her to go to Harvard Law School, Elle decides to follow him, determined to prove she's serious enough for him.

What she discovers at Harvard is far more than just a boy – she finds her own strength, intelligence, and a passion for advocating for others. Filled with catchy songs, hilarious moments, and a positive message about self-belief and challenging stereotypes, Legally Blonde Junior is a vibrant and inspiring musical that reminds us all to "bend and snap" our way to our true potential. You won't want to miss it!

Come to Roo Theatre between July 3rd - July 5th and be entertained by some of Joey’s amazing and creative talent. 

Tickets go on sale on Friday morning, so 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.