Thank you to Mr Ray Wooby and Mrs Jenny Bell for stepping up to the position of Principal during my leave. I was able to have a wonderful experience of the top end of Australia with a trip to Cape York. It was amazing and inspiring and I was totally outside my comfort zone learning to 4WD through creeks, sand and rocks. It is important for adults to be outside your comfort zone as that is the only way we learn. It is the schools job to make students move outside their comfort zones to learn but to upskill and scaffold the learning experiences. I would highly recommend a trip to the far north if you are thinking of it.

In reference to last week's lockdown, St Joseph’s as a school community is very fortunate to have such a good student body that the need for Lockdowns is very limited. They are only called for to ensure student safety.

I thank all the students who were sensible and serious about maintaining safety for all. It was disappointing that a handful of students were not responsible or cooperative during that time. It is important for students to understand that lockdowns are only called when student safety is in question and they need to take responsibility to assist and help. For parents we inform about the events via compass if it is appropriate to do so.  During a lockdown, staff are not to be on their devices and are not able to answer phone calls.  When the school is in lockdown it is not appropriate for parents to arrive to collect their children. You will not be allowed on site until the lockdown is released, you are just adding to the management, and risk to yourself as well. At the end of lockdown another compass notification will be sent to give an all clear. Lockdown can cause some students distress but safety is the paramount concern. If your child is experiencing any ongoing distress please contact their PALS to gain additional support from the school counsellor.

Year 12 return this week from trial exams. They are to be highly commended for their behaviour and approach to the examination situations. In the next few weeks they have the opportunity to polish and improve their results and I would highly recommend them taking every opportunity offered during this time.

Year 9 are off to camp on Thursday and Friday. I wish them well and thank the teachers who are going above and beyond so that students can have this experience. I would ask parents to remind their child that their behaviour and following directions is even more important when at this type of event and that all school rules still apply.

The SRC presented Life Coaching at Monday's assembly. It was an excellent reminder about the value of education and lifelong learning. I commend them for their interesting and positive presentation.

Green and Gold Day -  Wednesday

The Matilda’s are an example of grit and perseverance and what a wonderful game it was to watch as part of the world cup. On Wednesday this week we are having a Green and Gold day in support of the Matilda’s and ask for a gold coin donation for the winter Vinnies Appeal.

Even if you only have a ribbon get involved in the spirit.

Week 4 Term 3

Year 12 students completed their Trial HSC exams last week. They deserve a huge pat on the back for the way in which they have approached this impart phase of the HSC program and we look forward to seeing the results of their hard work. Major projects are in the process of being finalised and submitted leaving the remaining time of Year 12 to finalise course content and start the final push revising and preparing for the HSC exams in term 4. 

Last week we had a very positive zoom with Year 9 students and parents regarding the Pathways program for 2024. This is the initial step in the elective selection process for stage 5 that will continue in coming weeks. 

Subject Information Session

During period 3 this Friday 18th August, there will be a Subject Information session held in the hall with students moving into Year 9 in 2024. This is an excellent opportunity for students to obtain further information with regards to subject selections and ask any questions they may have.

Pathways Nominations

Nominations for Pathways courses have now been closed. Students will be spoken with over the coming weeks in regards to their nominations.

Mr Michael Shanahan

Acting Curriculum Coordinator

School Fees & Frequently Asked Questions

See below some frequently asked questions:

• In the case of hardship, families are encouraged to seek an Application for Fee Concession from the school office.
• On submission of the application with appropriate documentation, an interview with the principal will generally be made.
• Matters of hardship are treated with respect and in the strictest confidence.

What is an Application for Fee Concession?

• These applications are a formal way of applying for consideration in relation to hardship.
• They provide information and evidence to support your claim so that consideration may be given to such concessions as reduced payments, extensions of time or redunction in school fees.
• Fee concessions are reviewed annually and applications will be required to provide up to date financial information.
• In the case of families attending more than one school, schools may share this information so that assistance can be consdiered across schools.
• Concessions granted are generally based on your capacity to pay rather than set discounts.

Term 2 Value Awards

The Term 2 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 last 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. Congratulations to the following students:

Junior - Ebony McCloy

Intermediate - Breanna Creswell

Senior - Zali Schofield

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. Congratulations to the following students:

Junior - Jordan Hoogendoorn

Intermediate - Travis McGeorge

Senior - Corey Roberts

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. Congratulations to the following students:

Junior - Riley Mallon

Intermediate- Tasha Moylan

Senior - Summer Moylan 

Rugby League Girls Report

First, I would like to thank those parents who supported the girls on the day it was much appreciated. The Croome road event was well run, and the girls did the school proud. We played Lake Illawarra in our first ever game and came away with a win. This was a great result 12-8. In our second game against Warilla who had a lot of the ball we lost by 2 tries. This placed us out of the Finals. The girls were great, and this has spurred the girls on to be bigger and better next year when they combine with the under 16. As a coach I was proud of their sportsmanship and effort/skill. Well done!

B. Hetherington

Proud Coach

Dio Athletics

We had 56 students represent St Joseph’s at the Diocesan Athletics Carnival on Friday 28th July. It was a tremendous day out for these students with some remarkable results. The morning started off with Tayissa Buchanan breaking 2 x records in the 1500m and 800m 17+ girls events. One thing I would really like to acknowledge was the positive attitude and willingness of students to fill in on any events that were asked of them. Their commitment to helping our school points was incredible and added to the positive environment of the day. Congratulations to all the students who attended on the day and showed their Joey’s spirit! A massive thank you to Mr Radic and Mr Maguire for attending this carnival and assisting the Diocesan as an official. Your expertise on the Javelin event was greatly appreciated.

Results: 

Charlie Mayer - 3rd Place High Jump

Mackenzie Best - 1st Pace Shot Put

Toby Hokin - 1st Place shot put, 2nd place discus

Lani Ly - 3rd Place High Jump

Mackenzie Hutchinson - 3rd place Javelin

Emily Csillich - 3rd place discus

Munesu Marevanhema - 3rd place High Jump

Nathaniel Gamble - 2nd Place shot put

Mikayla Fernandez - 3rd place Long Jump

Santiago Garcia - 2nd Place Long Jump

Lachlan Haining - 2nd place 800m, 3rd place 1500m

Tayissa Buchanan -1 place 1500m, 800m & 400m. She broke the record in both the 1500m and 800m events.

Grace Pomery - 2nd place - 1500, 800, 400 and long jump as well as 3rd place in the 100m & triple jump.

Senior Girls relay - Mackenzie Best, Sarah Wyber, Tayisaa Buchanan & Grace Pomery - 2nd place

Tayissa Buchanan also was runners up for 17+ age champion with Grace Pomery claiming the 17+ Age Champion for 2023.

Goodluck to the following students who will compete at NSWCCC on Monday 11th September in Sydney:

• Tayissa Buchanan
• Grace Pomery
• Mackenzie Best
• Lachlan Haining
• Toby Hokin

Jump Rope for Heart Update

We are 4 weeks into our Jump Rope for Heart Fundraiser and it has been unreal to see the students get involved in this fundraising event.

Congratulations to these student who have registered to fundraise:

• Nevaeh Mills
• India Mills
• Beau Deaves
• Arianna Barlow
• Ella Alessi
• Levi McEwan

And Zane Ristevski who is our top fundraiser so far!

Our school has so far fundraised $222 for the Heart Foundation. We have 6 weeks left to fundraise for this great cause.

Donations can be made to our school page here:

https://www.jumprope.org.au/fundraisers/37FC7A/jump-rope-for-heart-2023

Try this at home!!

Challenge Videos…Can you do this?

Awesome Annie - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Np3WO9H3hQk&list=PLh8a3llPdCcjCvr5ovrV5dUnFV_i77Pxt&index=1

Dipsy Doodle - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4r1jeP4A3c&list=PLh8a3llPdCcjCvr5ovrV5dUnFV_i77Pxt&index=2

Double Under Cross -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7MYxdEWrJ8&list=PLh8a3llPdCcjCvr5ovrV5dUnFV_i77Pxt&index=3

NSWCCC Netball Teams

On Tuesday we will have 40 students head to Penrith to compete in the NSWCCC Netball Teams. We wish these teams the very best of luck including our very first St Joseph’s Open Boys Team.

7-8 Girls

• Ruby Evans
• Mikayla Fernandez
• Cadence Hardy
• Claire-Rose James
• Sienna Kaschubs
• Libby Knight
• Abbey Mansbridge
• Ebony McCloy
• Kiara Shelton
• Lily Whittle

9-10 Girls

• Bethany Campbell
• Gemma Creswell
• Amelia Dimitrievski
• Dior Doherty
• Cate Mansbridge
• Kelsey May
• Isabella Micovski
• Chloe Norris
• Amali Warrener
• Chelsea Whalan
• Sarah Wyber

Open Girls

• Mackenzie Best
• Isabelle Dimitrievski
• Logan Hurst
• Maddelyn James
• Emma Judd
• Kate McLaughlin
• Amy McLaughlin
• Kiana Rieck
• Alexandra Tololeska
• Monica Tololeska

Open Boys

• Thomas Avtarovski
• Rob Sebastian Bolante
• Nash Burling
• Kobe Cox
• Thomas Frew
• Flynn Gould-Anthony
• Phoenix Hiscocks
• Thomas Hofman
• Wil Moran
• Matthew Shepherd
• Thomas Welland

World Cup Soccer & Jersey Day

Over the past few weeks we have had our Junior World Cup Soccer tournament happening at recess and lunch. There were 16 teams (80 students) who registered to compete in the 7-9 Junior Division with some fierce competition. A shout out to the 2 all girls teams who played tremendous games in the preliminary rounds. Your talent and courage is something that was noticed by staff and students. The semi finals saw many close games that led to penalty shoot-outs to make the grand final.

In a close battle, the grand final saw Brexit FC take the win against John McGin. They will play the winner of the 10-12 Tournament which commences next week. Goodluck to the senior teams starting their preliminary rounds on Monday.

To celebrate the Women’s Soccer World Cup and our SJCHS World Cup JNR vs SNR finals we will be having a Jersey Day on Week 6, Friday 25th August. Students can choose to wear a sporting jersey of their choice to celebrate this event. We will be raising funds for Catholic Mission and students who wear a jersey are kindly asked to bring a gold coin donation which will be collected during Homeroom and period 1 on the day.  

I would like to remind students that they MUST wear sports shorts or school pants and if wearing a jersey singlet, they MUST wear a t-shirt underneath.

2023/2024 Aspiring/Elite Applications

St Joseph's Catholic High School has partnered with BaiMed Performance to develop our Aspiring/Elite Athlete Program. The program is for students who are aspiring to or participating at an elite level in their chosen sport. The program encompasses not only their sporting achievements but creates a viable future pathway which includes their academic studies.

If your child is interested in applying for the 2023/24 program, applications will open on Wednesday 16th August and will be made available via Compass and on the school website. Applications will close at 4pm, Wednesday 30th August.

Upcoming Events

Junior Boys Cricket Trials - Week 6-8 (info to come via Compass)

U17s & U15s Boys & Girls Rugby 7s Nominations -

We are seeking nominations for students (boys and girls) to trial for our Rugby Union Teams.

Prior experience is not necessary but is recommended. You will be given proper contact/tackle training to prepare you for the game.

This is only open for students in Years 7-11 (please note you must be 13 or older to trial)

Nominations close: Wednesday 16th August

Nomination link: https://forms.gle/1iezgmkZGUAgd2XR7

Aspiring/Elite Athlete Excursion -  Week 6, Tuesday 22nd August

Oz Tag Champion of Champions - Week 8, Monday 4th & Tuesday 5th September

JNR Girls and Boys AFL training - Commences Week 6 Wednesday, Lunch time on the oval

Sporting Success

Congratulations to Zali Schofield who has been selected in the All Australian Open Girls Merit team for Hockey. This is an incredible effort from her and the school is very proud. Well done Zali.

Congratulations to Emily Hollingsworth on her representation at NSW AllSchool Under 15 AFL girls. Their team came 3rd at the National Championships.

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

SRC Life Coaching

Student Representative Council (SRC) members are upskilling and practicing their
teamwork, collaboration and communication skills on assemblies. The program is based on the Blueprint for Careers Development and links career education to topics like mental and physical health to aspire students to reach out and seek support when needed, support each other, look after their family and be mindful of how a positive attitude is linked to career success. Last week three of our SRC students presented this topic to our school community. They met, planned, discussed the topic, exchanged ideas and wrote their part of the speech. They also had microphone and public speaking coaching before delivering their speech to their peers. Job well done to Flynn Whalan, Isabelle Dimitrievski and Alanah Grant, their topic : Managing well being, mental & physical health. Photo below-Alanah, Isabelle and Flynn in the Gym just after delivering their speech.

Whats coming up in the news and careers events?

Apprenticeship/Traineeship & Jobs Expos

See flyer below

Illawarra – Tuesday 22 August – 3pm to 8pm Illawarra Sports Stadium, Berkeley

Find out more 

UOW | Early Admission Audition Webinar

August 15, 2023

As a part of your Early Admission application to the Bachelor of Performance and Theatre (Acting) you are required to submit an audition.

Find out more

TAFE NSW | Virtual Open Day 2023

August 24, 2023

Discover all that TAFE NSW has to offer while connecting with experts who can help you make decisions around your future studies. Join us for webinars, browse the exhibition hall and view our on-demand content to learn more about studying with TAFE NSW.

Find out more

Positions Vacant

Are you looking for a part-time job?  Thunderbirds Chicken Shop at Dapto are recruiting!  Please send your resume to the following email: thunderbirdchickens@gmail.com 

Enquiries can be made by calling Syed on 02 4262 1290.

Scholarships

Community-based scholarships: tapping into local opportunities

While the landscape of scholarships is vast, one often overlooked avenue is the world of community-based scholarships. These scholarships, offered by local organisations, businesses, and community foundations, can provide you with invaluable support for your studies. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the realm of community-based scholarships, exploring how you can tap into local opportunities, build meaningful relationships, and leverage your community ties to access these valuable resources.

Local scholarships

Unlike national scholarships, community-based awards are often tailored to the specific needs and aspirations of the local population. Businesses, clubs, foundations, and other organisations in your town or city may offer scholarships that are not widely publicised. By actively seeking out these opportunities, you can uncover options that may not be as competitive as larger, nationally recognised awards.

Networking and building relationships

One of the key strategies to accessing community-based scholarships is networking and building relationships within your local community. Here’s how you can get started:

• Engage in local activities: Participate in local events, workshops, and volunteering opportunities. This not only helps you contribute to your community, but also puts you in direct contact with potential scholarship providers.
• Reach out to local organisations: Research local clubs, non-profits, and businesses that align with your interests or career goals. Connect with them, express your enthusiasm, and inquire about any scholarship opportunities they may offer.
• Attend community meetings: Attend town hall meetings, community forums, and local gatherings. Engaging in discussions and being an active member of your community can lead to valuable connections and insights into available
• Leverage social media: Follow local businesses, organisations, and influencers on social media platforms. Many scholarships are now advertised through these channels, providing you with up-to-date information.

Showcasing community involvement

Community-based scholarships often prioritise applicants who have demonstrated a strong commitment to their local area. Here’s how you can showcase your community involvement:

• Highlight volunteering experience: List any volunteer work, community service, or leadership roles you’ve undertaken in your local community. Highlight the impact you’ve made and the skills you’ve developed.
• Connect your goals to the community: Clearly show how your educational and career goals align with the betterment of your community. Scholarship providers want to see a direct connection between their support and the positive changes you aim to bring to your community.
• Obtain strong local recommendations: Request recommendation letters from community leaders, mentors, or employers who can speak to your contributions and

Navigating the application process

When applying for community-based scholarships, it’s important to be remember a few key points:

• Read and follow instructions: Carefully review the scholarship requirements and guidelines. Ensure that your application addresses each criterion.
• Customise your application: Tailor your application to the specific values and goals of the scholarship provider. Emphasise how you align with their mission.
• Craft a compelling essay: Write a compelling personal statement that illustrates your connection to the community, your aspirations, and how the scholarship will impact your journey.

Community-based scholarships offer more than just financial support; they provide an opportunity to deepen your roots in your local community and create lasting connections. You can search for scholarship opportunities on our database to get started.

Some scholarships you may be interested in:

2024 Teacher Education Scholarship Program

Open: July 24, 2023

Closes: August 25, 2023

Value: Up to $7,500 AUD per year

MySydney Entry and Scholarship Scheme

Open: April 3, 2023

Closes: February 9, 2024 Value: $8,500 AUD per year 

Apprenticeships and Traineeships

Apply for the ATO School Leaver Program

If you’re a 2022–23 year 12 graduate, the ATO School Leaver Program can kick-start your career. You’ll receive:

• a competitive salary
• practical hands-on work experience
• formal training, including a Certificate III qualification in IT or At the ATO, you’ll do work that matters. Be part of an organisation that:
• combats crime and fraud
• administers programs to support the community
• protects the data of millions of

Applications for the 2024 program open from 2 August and will close 30 August 2023.

Find out more and apply here.

Sue Kennedy

Transition and Pathways Specialists

Last week saw the relaunch of the Peer Support Program at Joey’s! We are thrilled to be bringing back our peer support sessions, fostering an environment where Year 7 can share, learn, and grow together. Each week, until the end of term, groups of 10-15 students will meet with 2 or 3 Yr 10 Peer Leaders and work through a range of activities that focus on building connections and addressing a range of behaviours. Over a period of 8 weeks students will acknowledge their strengths and learn skills to build resilience, identify how to develop, maintain and repair friendships, develop understanding of a range of behaviours including bullying, and learn strategies in order to respond appropriately in a variety of situations.

Session One - Safe and Sure

This session involved each of the group members getting to know each other by using a range of social skills to promote diversity and engagement. This session was also all about establishing a safe learning environment where each member feels able to join in, share, contribute, develop a sense of belonging and to identify safe practices.

Session Two - Being Strong

This session students have the opportunity to explore the positive things in their lives. Year 7 identified their strengths and achievements and also the people who support them. Consideration was also given to their character strengths and what helps to build a strong sense of self. Character strengths help provide accurate descriptions of their best attributes and in turn can shape how they behave towards others. 

I encourage you to discuss with your child what they have learnt during the last two sessions of Peer Support and encourage and reinforce their character strengths. Some of these may include happiness, kindness, patience, perseverance, honesty and good judgement. The next two sessions will focus on healthy relationships and positive attitudes.

Mrs Brooke Tomajka

Stage 5 PALS Coordinator

Position Vacant 

Canteen Volunteers Wanted

We need your help! Mum's, Dad's, Grandparent's and Friend's, if you are able to support the canteen any weekday, please let us know by emailing info@sjchs.dow.catholic.edu.au and provide your contact details and availability. 

If you can give a couple of hours would be extremely helpful!

Catholiccare offers a range of group work courses focusing on strengthening relationships, parenting, post-separation, supporting parents with children in care, managing challenging emotions and grief. Group programs are held in a supportive environment with others who share similar life experiences.  

Click below to view the Term 3 2023 group work courses.

The Diocese of Wollongong are running numerous events in the second half of 2023 which may be of interest to families. Please see details outlined below for the upcoming event on the 28th August:

Raising Fathers Evening Monday 28th August, Level 1 Micah House Resource Centre, Campbelltown, 7pm-8:30pm | Cost: Free

Speaker: Robert Falzon | Topic: Fathering from the Front Line

A special evening on the 28th August 2023 in Campbelltown with Robert Falzon from menALIVE, as he unpacks practical advise and shares stories that are powerfully important, informative and instructional for fathering in today's world.

In an age where there is training to do almost everything, there are so many fathers who are in desperate need of tips and tools to do one of the most improtant and impactful tasks on earth - Fathering! - and this evening will be a source of great formation and encouragement for dads. More information and booking at dow.org.au/events/raising-fathers-evening/