Assistant Principal News

Year 11 2025 Elective Process

Week 6 – PC - Elective information process explanation. 

Week 6 – Monday 3 June  to Thursday 6 June during class (list below) students will be provided with information on the Elective process for subjects in 2025. During this time staff will be available to speak with students on the various subjects on offer for next year. Please note that there are Elective videos created by our staff available on the St Joseph’s Website. 

Week 7 – Wednesday 12 June – Elective Information Night from 5:30 pm in the school hall for general information and then from 6:00 pm, staff will be available at the bottom of U Block for a subject-specific Q&A session for students and parents.

Week 8/9 – Student Conversations with Leaders. During Week 10, students will have a 20 minute meeting opportunity to speak with a Leader of Learning about their subject choices and gain valuable information and suggestions.

Sunday 23 June 2024 – Students will have completed by this date a survey choosing their subject choices.

Week 9 – Survey data considered. Low-class numbers will be eliminated.

Week 9/10 - Draft Elective Lines constructed. Students will be notified of possible clashes. This process continues until the number of clashes are minimised.

Week  10 - Students' choices considered and an opportunity for a Leader conversation for selected students. 

Early Term 3 - Elective Lines finalised. Students can continue to consider their choices and make changes but within the constraints of the 2025 Year 11 Elective Lines.

Term 4 – Pre-enrolment interview. Students and a parent have a Conference with a staff panel to look at student career aspirations and advice on succeeding in the HSC.

Half-Yearly Examinations – Years 7 - 9

As the Half-Yearly Examinations are beginning this week, below you will find a copy of the examination timetable. Please note: not all subjects are using an examination as their form of assessment, therefore not all subjects are represented here. 

Here are some practical tips to help you prepare thoroughly and confidently.

1. Plan your Study

Planning is crucial. Develop a study timetable that allocates sufficient time for each subject, based on your strengths and weaknesses. Ensure your schedule includes short breaks to avoid burnout and incorporate longer review sessions as the exam dates draw nearer.

2. Organise Your Study Space

A clutter-free, quiet, and well-lit study area can significantly enhance your concentration. Keep all necessary materials, such as textbooks/computer, notes, stationery, and a water bottle, within reach to minimise distractions.

3. Understand the Examination Requirements

Familiarise yourself with the structure of each exam. Knowing the types of questions (multiple-choice, short answer, essay) and the marking scheme will help you strategise your study approach and manage your time effectively during the examination.

4. Revision is Key

Practising with past examination papers and sample questions can provide insights into the examination pattern and the types of questions that are frequently asked. This practice can also help in identifying important topics and improving your time management skills.

5. Adopt Active Study Techniques

Active learning techniques, such as summarising information in your own words or creating mind maps, can enhance retention and understanding. Flashcards for key terms and concepts can also be very effective.

6. Stay Healthy

Maintaining your physical and mental health is critical. Ensure you get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and engage in regular physical activity. Short breaks and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help reduce stress.

7. Seek Help When Needed

Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re struggling with certain topics. Teachers, classmates, or online resources can provide clarification and support. Be sure to reach out to your teachers, email, Teams or OneNote

8. Stay Positive and Confident

A positive mindset can make a significant difference. Believe in your abilities and focus on your preparation rather than the outcome.

By following these strategies, you can prepare effectively for your Half-Yearly Examinations and approach them with confidence. Remember, consistent effort and a well-planned study routine are the keys to academic success. Good luck!

Joel Bristow

Assistant Principal

Wellbeing News

Community Day

Last week, the St Joseph’s Community came together to raise awareness of the impacts of homelessness in our communities, and raise funds for the Vinnies Winter Appeal.

With a focus on our Catholic Social Teachings of Dignity of the Person, and Solidarity, students came together in their pyjamas during Friday’s Community Day to participate in a number of activities and support of various stalls. All funds raised will be donated to Year 12’s Vinnies Community Sleepout occurring this Thursday night 6 June.

Thank you to all SRC leaders and other students for a wonderful day! If families are able to donate to Year 12’s Sleepout, please use this link https://my.fundraise.vinniesnsw.org.au/vinnies-community-sleepouts/st-joseph-s-catholic-college-aberdeen-year-12

Tell Them From Me Survey

All families should have received an invitation and link for the ‘Partners in Learning’ Tell Them from Me Survey.

Whilst surveys can be annoying, this is an opportunity for you to have your say regarding various aspects of our school’s leadership, organisation, and education delivery for your sons and daughters. This survey provides us with valuable feedback regarding areas of achievement and opportunities for improvement, with response data driving our School Improvement Plan.

We are asking for all families to complete this survey by Friday 14 June through this link http://tellthemfromme.com/nnzr5. Currently, we have only had 19% completion rate.

Marika Eveleigh

Assistant Principal