STRONG MINDS, 

GENTLE HEARTS

Looking the Part of a Saints Man

Thank you to all parents for assisting your son to start the year in a very positive manner. At the commencement of the year, we have a particular focus on grooming and the wearing of the correct uniform. (See page 11 in the student diary for further information.) This includes using the correct college bags. So far, most boys have been excellent in this regard. Many thanks to you, the parents, for your efforts in preparing your son for the commencement of the year. As we are at the halfway mark of the term, please ensure that your son’s hair meets college requirements which are also clearly articulated on page 11 of the diary.  

Vaping 

We are aware that there is a rising trend among teenagers to vape. Regrettably, we believe that there have been some instances of our students vaping at the College. Since vaping is illegal for anyone under the age of 18, and vaping of nicotine is illegal for anyone, this is a matter that we take very seriously.

Prevention is best, and like all risk-taking behaviours we need to highlight the dangers to our young people and provide them with information to make informed decisions. We will continue to provide students with health information through our HPE classes and pastoral care programs on vaping and other harmful activities. We ask for your help and support with this. 

Please have a conversation with your child or children as soon as possible about the harmful effects these products have on their bodies, and outline the serious consequences they will face at school should they make poor choices. If you are concerned that your child may have an issue with using e-cigarettes, alcohol or other drugs, we are here to assist you. 

I have included a link from Queensland Health and The Lung Foundation Australia to give you some pertinent information about vaping.

Using the Student Diary and Homework 

Your son's good use of the student diary is one way he can remain on top of the demands of his various subjects. Students are encouraged to write in their diaries their subjects for each day. Homework should be written beside each subject and if no homework is set the student should record what revision or other studies he plans to do for that subject. Recommended minimum homework times are published on page 11 of the Student Diary.

Throughout the year, homeroom teachers regularly check each student’s progress in this area. 

There is no substitute for a parent’s encouragement about homework. We recommend a regular talk with your son about homework, study and assignments. Please look at the diary and expect to see homework written for each subject. If no homework, assignments or study are listed - please challenge your son on his process and the expectation of recommended minimum time doing this homework and studying.

Sample Diary Homework Notations