As I come to the end of my tenure as Assistant Principal of St. Joseph’s, I would like to sincerely thank all members of the school community for your support over the past twelve years. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve this school community in this role and I have been humbled by the best wishes that I have received for the next phase of my life’s journey. 

I am very confident that St. Joseph’s will continue to thrive under the exemplary leadership of Principal, Ms. Wilson and the School Leadership Team, with the Assistant Principal position to be advertised and filled during Term 3. 

A reminder that during Ms. Wilson’s leave for the first three weeks of next term, Mr Ray Wooby will be Acting Principal and Mr Brett Moran will be Acting Assistant Principal. Mr Michael Shanahan will be picking up the Curriculum role while also continuing in his current leadership role.

Rewarding Student Excellence

Congratulations to the following Years 10, 11 and 12 students who have received Gold Principal’s Awards this term: 

St. Joseph’s has also demonstrated excellent prowess on the sporting field recently. Success was enjoyed by both the Open Girls’ Hockey and the Years 7 and 8 and Years 11 and 12 Netball Teams. The Open Girls’ Hockey team were overall winners of the Diocesan Hockey Championship on Monday 19th June and the Junior and Senior Netball teams won Division 2 of the Diocesan Netball Championships on Friday 16th June. Congratulations to all students who are acknowledged in our Sports Coordinator, Miss Power’s Sports Update below.

Vex Robotics Challenge 

Bringing Diocesan School’s budding scientists’ and engineers’ STEM skills to life, St. Joseph’s hosted the Diocesan Vex Robotics Challenge in the School Hall on Wednesday, 21st June. This day provided the invaluable opportunity for participants to hone their teamwork, collaboration, critical thinking, project management and communication skills by designing and building a robot in the game-based engineering challenge. Interested students are encouraged to join this extra-curricular activity which also enhances creativity and problem solving skills. Thank you to Mr Dennelly for his enthusiastic and passionate leadership of the Robotics Club. 

Semester 1 Year 7 -10 School Reports and Parent Teacher Interviews

Parents and Carers are reminded that Semester 1 School Reports will be available to be viewed via Compass at the end of the day tomorrow. Year 7 -10 Parent Teacher Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday 26th July from 4:00 - 8:00pm. The expectation is that at least one parent/carer will participate  in these interviews with your student(s) via the online Zoom platform. Bookings can be made via Compass and the link can also be found in this week’s Curriculum Report. This is an opportunity for parents and carers to meet your child’s teachers. Teachers are looking forward to providing a review of their academic progress in Semester 1 and valuable insights into your child’s learning and development can be shared, including areas of strength and recommended strategies for learning improvement next semester. 

School Musical

This week has seen the school community and members of the broader community enjoying the School’s presentation of the annual school musical. Thank you to the wonderful cast and crew of this year’s musical, The Wizard of Oz. The commitment, dedication, talent and teamwork of all involved is greatly appreciated and to be commended. Special thanks to Mrs Burns (Director and Producer), Mr Shanahan (Stage Manager), Mrs Mercieca (Assistant Director and Music Director), Mr Dennelly (Technical Director), Mrs Rowena Sanderson(choreographer),  Mr Maher (Assistant Music Director), Mrs Klanac (Costume Coordinator and General Assistant), Mr Burns (General Assistant) for their dedicated and amazing work in preparing the students at rehearsals and for the various performances of this fabulous show. It is not too late to purchase tickets to support the cast and crew of the School Musical. Tickets are still available through the link provided via Compass and in this School Newsletter.

I wish all our students, families and staff a well deserved restful winter break!

Mrs Bell (Acting Principal)

Jenny Bell Farewell

This week we say goodbye to our Assistant Principal Mrs Jenny Bell. As reported in our last newsletter, Mrs Bell has accepted a new position at Edmund Rice College. Mrs Bell started at St Joseph’s in 2012 and has held the positions of Curriculum Coordinator and Assistant Principal. 

Mrs Bell has made a valuable contribution as a teacher in both the Maths and Catholic Studies faculties during her time at St Joseph’s. As Assistant Principal, Mrs Bell has exemplified the qualities that define an exceptional educational leader. Her unwavering commitment to compassion, empathy, kindness, calmness, and education has left an indelible mark on our school community. 

Whilst Mrs Bell will be missed, we sincerely wish her all the best as she embarks on this next chapter of her education journey.

Term 3 Week 1

A reminder to all parents and students that Monday 17th July is a Staff Development / Pupil Free Day.  Students will return in Term 3 on Tuesday 18th July in full winter uniform.

End of Semester 1

Year 12 are now nearing the end of their HSC courses with Trial HSC exams fast approaching early next term. Year 11 are also nearing the end of their courses with end of year exams at the end of next term before starting their HSC courses in Term 4. Year 10 have been busy both in class as well as working their way through subject selection for Year 11 2024. Having completed Semester 1 Years 9 and 8 will look at choosing electives for 2024 during Term 3. Year 7 have now completed their first semester of high school and should now be in a position to have a better understanding of high school requirements and look to build on this in Semester 2. I would like to congratulate those students who have worked diligently across the two terms and encourage all students to use the break to evaluate your Semester 1 results and consider steps that can be implemented to build on these results in Semester 2.

7-10 Parent Teacher Interviews 

Parent Teacher Interviews are now open and bookings can be made via compass. These are scheduled for Wednesday 26th July (Week 2).

This is a great opportunity to discuss students' current progress with their teachers and identify areas to focus on to help students further develop throughout the remainder of the year. 

Trial HSC Exams

Year 12 will sit their trial HSC exams in Weeks 3 and 4 of next term. The exam schedule has been distributed and further information regarding exam requirements/protocols will be provided to students early next term. Students should be using the upcoming break to start getting organised and preparing for these exams.

Subject Selection 2024

Year 10 have now submitted their initial subject selections for Year 11 2024. Based on these selections, we have developed the lines that will run in 2024 and these will be provided to students by the end of the term. Students are encouraged to spend the holidays considering the options available to them. Early next term, students will again sit with their teacher mentors to finalise their selections before submitting their final selections at the end of Week 2. Staff have provided lots of positive feedback regarding the way Year 10 have approached this process this year.

Once Year 10 have finalised their selections we will work with Years 9 and 8 to complete their electives selections for 2024. For Year 9 this will also include potential access to a Pathways subject. Pathways is an option where students can apply to undertake one Year 11 course instead of the usual Year 10 electives with a view to completing the Year 12 component of the course the following year (ie when they are in Year 11). Further details regarding elective subject selection will be provided early next term. 

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. 

Year 8 Bridge Building

Mr Ferderer's Year 8 Techology class finished their Engineering unit with a crackle and a bang.

They assessed how much weight that their bridges would hold. The bridges withstood weights from 30 to 67kgs. Overall the students enjoyed this course which involved working in groups to make a mousetrap powered car and the bridges as well as individually making a balsa and pine wood glider.

They move on next semester to a 'hard materials' unit where they will be designing and making a range of jewellery- rings, pendants, etc.

Year 10 Visual Arts

Our Year 10 Visual Arts students have recently completed their studies into cultural ceramics. Students have learned about the design of vessels, construction techniques, under glazing and kiln firing.

SCHOOL MUSICAL:  The Wizard of Oz

We are thrilled with the talent and dedication demonstrated by our students in their preparation for the current performances of the beloved classic, The Wizard of Oz. With months of rigorous rehearsals, the cast and crew are bringing the magical Land of Oz to life on the Roo Theatre, Shellharbour stage this week. From the vocals to the choreography, every aspect of the production will be a testament to their hard work and passion. The students' commitment to their roles, both on and off stage, is truly commendable, and we have been enjoying their exceptional performances. 

We extend our appreciation to the talented students, dedicated teachers, and supportive families who are making this theatrical journey an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

60 Seconds with a Science Student

Year 12 Students 

Every second Friday, our Year 12 students dress up to fundraise for charity. Last week, the theme was dress as a teacher. Year 12 outdid themselves in the doppelganger department!

Sport teaches us so much about ourselves and builds up our confidence and resilience. As we come to a close of Semester 2, it is an important time to reflect on everything we have accomplished as well as things that we can improve upon as a school and as individuals. 

One thing I have spoken to many students about is following through with their team commitments. Each person plays a vital role in getting our school teams up to standard and prepared for their game day and it is their commitment to the team that ends up getting our sporting results.

As we move forward to Term 3, we have the Diocesan Athletics Carnival, which heavily relies on students showing up for not only themselves in an individual event but also for our relay teams and also overall school champion points (Vince Villa Trophy). It is a great day out and one that we have the potential to really excel at. As you will see below, some incredible team achievements have occurred in the past fortnight and this has come from students committing to their team training and having the belief that we can WIN!

The last thing I leave you with is three reflective questions to ask yourself…

Did you commit to your team and coach? 

Did you give it your all? 

What can you do better for next term?

Years 7-8 Girls Netball

The Junior netball team had a very successful carnival. After a tough campaign last year, the girls trained really hard to improve their skills and work on their game. The day started with a very impressive win and the girls all played with passion and showed great skills. This continued throughout with an undefeated run. A bye gave the girls a good rest with our toughest game to follow against St Mary's. The score was even at half time and the final whistle saw Joeys win by 1. This secured our spot as champions for the junior division. The girls were excellent ambassadors for the school and deserved the title after a very impressive day full of wonderful netball.

Years 9-10 Girls Netball 

The girls did so well only losing the first couple of games and then drawing one match. They improved as the day went on and ended up winning their last 3 games. They had a great day, working as a team, encouraging each other especially Amali & Shakira, our rookies who played awesome and helped out at the last minute filling in!!!

Years 11-12 Girls Netball

The girls hit the court with force and it did not take long for Kiana Rieck and Alex Tololeska to weave their magic in the circle. A sound performance from Logan and Maya Hurst and Maddi James in the midcourt , defending well and finding plenty of space. They tirelessly linked passes to feed the shooters in the circle. Kate and Amy Mclaughlin were working with a six sense as they instinctively joined forces in the mid court in a number of games to annihilate the opposition's efforts to advance. Emma Judd and Monica Tololeska anchored the defence. Emma worked consistently to dampen the score and win balls back to send up the court. Monica's precision timing and explosive power allowed her to intercept numerous times. Monica inspired the girls with her 101% effort and steely perseverance, demanding nothing less from the other players. Monica Tololeska has received the MVP award for the day.

Open Girls Hockey

In a display of sheer dominance and unwavering skill, the Open Girls Hockey team emerged triumphant as they remained undefeated at the Diocesan Gala Day. With some sensational efforts from Charlee Buckman as top goal scorer, the team claimed a resounding victory in the grand final against St Mary's, securing the coveted Diocesan Gala Day championship with an astounding 9-0 final score. Well done Girls!

Open Boys Hockey

The Open Boys Hockey team showcased their determination in the tournament, finishing in a commendable 4th place. Despite facing tough competition from formidable opponents, the team displayed unwavering perseverance and a strong sense of sportsmanship throughout the event. With each match, they exhibited incredible teamwork, tactical prowess, and a never-give-up attitude. Although they narrowly missed out on a podium finish, their fourth-place achievement serves as a testament to their hard work and commitment.

Open Boys Volleyball

On Wednesday June 21st, the Boys Open Volleyball team competed in the Diocesan Volleyball Gala Day. Most of the boys have never played volleyball before, but they were quick learners and acquitted themselves admirably on the day. They all represented the school with dignity and aplomb, and gave a good accounting of themselves in all their matches. Special shout-out to Noah, who stepped in to officiate a playoff game, despite this being his first time playing the sport.

Congratulations to all the boys for their effort and tenacity, and we hope to see the junior boys return next year to put their experience to good use.

Open Girls Volleyball

The Open Girls Volleyball Gala Day was held at Unanderra Hockey Stadium on June 21st. It was filled with intense matches and remarkable displays of skill, with Joeys drawing some tough competition with our round-robin matches against Mt Carmel, St Benedicts and St John's. The level of intensity and competitive spirit was palpable on the court. Players exhibited exceptional technique, teamwork, and determination. Special mention to Zali Phrakaysone (Yr 11) who has been awarded MVP for the day - displaying great skill and perseverance and words of encouragement during each match.

Sprint Workshop

Over the past two weeks, I have been running a sprint and speed workshop with students before school. We focussed on several drills to help them with their striding and also focussed strongly on staying relaxed with big arms. It was great to see students engage in this workshop and hopefully take a few tips to assist them with the upcoming Diocesan Athletics Carnival and also their own sporting commitments.

Get Active Fridays

This term we implemented a Get Active Friday initiative where students could access the gym before school and start their morning with some physical activity. It has been very successful, with about 30-40 students showing up each Friday morning before school. This initiative will continue next term.

Dio Athletics

Date: Term 3, Week 2, Friday 28th July

Congratulations to the 80 students who have been selected to represent our school at the Diocesan Athletics Carnival. Please make sure you complete the consent and payment on Compass. The attendance of your child at this carnival is imperative in our school achieving valuable points towards the Vince Villa Trophy and gives your child the opportunity to compete in a fun competitive environment against other schools.

To check if your child has qualified please check Compass.

Girls Basketball Trials

Next term we'll begin trialling the girls for the upcoming Basketball Gala Day in Term 4. We will be selecting two teams for this event (7-9 Junior and 10-11 Senior). All female students are encouraged to nominate for this team by the end of Term 2.

Nominations close: Friday 30th June

Nominate here: https://forms.gle/t5Jav7L7ZYvJEn36A

Open Boys Netball Nominations

Nominations are now open for the Open Boys Netball Team.

This team will compete at the NSWCCC Netball Championships in Penrith next term (Week 5).

Nominations close: Wednesday 19th July

Nomination form: https://forms.gle/c5wAmktGsKR5ADme9

Primary School Soccer Refereeing

The Primary Senior South Boys Soccer Gala Day is fast approaching and I am looking to send students to assist on the day with refereeing. This is only open for students in years 7-11.

The gala day will take place on Friday 28th July (back up day Friday 11th August) at Terry Reserve, Albion Park.

Please note:

- If you are part of the Diocesan Athletics team, you will NOT be allowed to do this event

- You MUST be able to get your own way to and from the venue

- Student referees will need to provide their own whistle (and flags if possible) and wear full school sports uniform

- A soccer referee qualification is not essential, but students should be experienced in the sport of soccer and have a sound understanding of the game rules and how to officiate them

- Student referees are required to be at Terry Reserve, Albion Park by 8:15am and be present until the conclusion of the carnival at approximately 2:30pm

- Students are encouraged to pack their own food and drink for the day as canteen facilities may not be available

Nominations close: Week 1, 21st July

Nomination form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSekV-gfr9ynmXgE7l9COiYecK-wbeSe2X7tx2QHosp1kMGkLQ/viewform

Upcoming Events

Sporting Success

Jake Burling

Congratulations to Jake who was selected for Rep basketball for under 14s to represent the Illawarra Hawks this year and recently won the country tournament held two weekends ago.

Latisha Akuoko

Congratulations to Latish on her selection in the U16s Girls Southern Country Rugby League Team. Latisha headed to Canberra earlier this week to trial against other girls and after four tough games, she was named in the squad of 20 girls to compete next term. Latisha is also currently assisting Mr Hetherington with our 14 girls rugby league team and development.

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 our new social media page.

@SJCHSSPORTS

School Musical - The Wizard of Oz

The School Musical commenced this week at the Roo Theatre, Shellharbour Vilage on Wednesday 28th June.

Tickets are still available to be purchased for Friday 30th June and Saturday 31st June. You can purchase tickets at the door or online via the below link:

Buy Tickets Here

The Year 7 Japanese class recently participated in an online Furoshiki Workshop delivered by Japan Foundation Sydney.

Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese eco-friendly wrapping cloth, and the students found out about its fascinating history and practical use. They learned how to wrap and carry laptops, lunch boxes, tissue boxes, water bottles, and even soccer balls. At the end of the session, the students were given the Furoshiki to take home so they could show off their newfound wrapping skills to their families.

Our students also impressed the Japan Foundation teacher with their respectful behaviour, enthusiasm and engaged interactions.

A big thank you to Michael from the IT Team who set up the online meeting first thing in the morning - it all went perfectly.

Our wonderful students have generously donated below for the Vinnies Winter Appeal, this term our students had lunchtime BBQ fundraisers, student dress ups and Mother's day card sales raising $2,016.51 and the student run cafe net profits for term 1 & term 2 $1,227.50 = $3,244.03 in total has been donated to Vinnies.

One to One Careers Interviews

Career Interviews are ongoing for students who are referred from teachers and students who call into the careers room at lunchtimes. Parents may wish to also attend. Over the past fortnight, there have been interviews set up for students requesting this service as well as referrals from staff. If your child would like to have a one to one career planning session please contact me via email.

Subject Selection Meetings

Assisting Year 10 students with subject selection has been a priority this fortnight. One to one interviews and addressing this in School Life Balance classes has supported our students at this crucial time selecting subjects for senior years.

July 26th - Apprenticeship Support Morning 

Students in Years 9-12 have been emailed an expression of interest form to attend this event. The purpose of this morning is for our students to meet Industry representatives from Childcare, Aged Care, Transport and all trades. The employers will provide valuable information on processes to apply for employment, what is involved in these careers and offer opportunities to our students. If your child would like to be involved in this please ask them to check their emails and send in their expression of interest form for this event ASAP.

Greenkeeping and Plumbing First Year Apprenticeship Opportunities

Students in Years 10-12 were sent an email regarding this job opportunity. If your child is interested please ask them to email me ASAP.

Early Entry UOW

Early entry has opened and will close on the date below.

- Early Admission applications close: 11th August

- UOW Open Day: 5th August

- Early Admission offers/outcomes: early September (TBC) 

UAC - University Admission Centre

UAC early-bird applications close: 29th September

Year 12 students can pick up a copy of the UAC Guide at the library.

If you need help to place your application please send an email to me or drop into the careers room when it is opened at lunchtime.

POSITIONS VACANT

Students have been emailed about these opportunities:

• Greenkeeping and Plumbing Apprenticeships (Years 10-12)
• Pharmacy Assistant (Year 8)
• BLG Accountants (Year 12)

If you need more information please email me: kennedys01@dow.catholic.edu.au

Events you may be interested in….

WSU | Open Day

July 2nd, 2023

Registrations are now open for Open Day 2023.

Find out more

UOW | HSC Subject Revision Bootcamp

Find out more

Charles Sturt | HSC Study Days 2023

July 4th to July 6th, 2023

Find out more

ADF | Army Reserve Information Session, Wollongong

July 4th, 2023

Find out more

Macquarie | Year 12 Webinar Series

July 5th to July 19th, 2023

Find out more

Notre Dame | Exam Ready: Navigating HSC Exams with Resilience and Confidence

July 10th, 2023

Find out more