Secondary

Dear Families 

As a significant milestone in their adolescent journey, the transition to high school is a time of mixed emotions: excitement, anticipation, hope, nervousness and sometimes a sense of overwhelm, which is why an effective orientation program is essential to set the foundation for a successful start to Year 7. Led by Ms Morgan Ball and Year 7 Homeroom Teachers, the transition program has focused on supporting students to establish relationships with peers and teachers, develop a sense of place within the broader campus and adjust to the routine and rigour of the Secondary School. As an integral part of the transition experience, Life Skills lessons have provided students with valuable support to develop organisational strategies, last week’s Reflection Day built knowledge and understanding regarding the College founders and students’ responsibilities as members of our community, the St Omer camp experience last Thursday and Friday created opportunities for challenge and comradery off campus. 

Year 7 students are to be commended for how well they have settled into Secondary School life, established new friendships, and have started to explore the variety of co-curricular opportunities on offer. A huge thank you to Ms Ball, Homeroom Teachers, teaching and support staff for creating a warm and welcoming environment that has facilitated the effective transition for students.  

Years 7/8 NAS Summer Carnival 

Congratulations to students and staff involved in Tuesday’s inaugural Years 7/8 NAS Summer Carnival. The day was a huge success thanks to the organisation and planning of Ms Jessica Pillera, Head of Sport and Mr Darren Kowal, Assistant Head of Sport, the support of staff coaches and managers, and the enthusiastic participation of students across all sports and fixtures. We look forward to the Years 11/12 Summer Carnival on Friday 22 March and Years 9/10 Carnival on Wednesday 27 March. A compulsory day for all students, those not competing or assisting will participate in a wellbeing program on campus.   

Paul Dillon: Drug and Alcohol Education  

Yesterday, Paul Dillon from Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA) presented to Years 10 to 12 students the facts regarding drug and alcohol use in young people. Paul has been working in this area for almost 30 years and is a regular presenter at the College to provide students with access to quality information and best practice drug education. As always, students found Paul’s presentations informative and engaging.  

Many parents feel ill-equipped to manage the topic of drug and alcohol use with their adolescent children. Although parents often doubt their importance and influence during the teenage years, research indicates that they play a vital role in the development of their adolescent children. Having good quality and accurate information in support of the parenting journey is vital. To assist parents, DARTA has developed a range of resources that examine topical issues, empowering them to have open and honest family discussions in this area. Information for Parents - DARTA 

Parent Teacher Student Interviews: Monday 18 March 

On Monday, 18 March Parent Teacher Student interviews will be held both online and face-to-face. These interviews are an important event that can assist you and your child to speak with their teachers about their academic progress and work habits. The key to a successful interview is the following:

• Read the Interim Report before you attend. Interim Reports will be available Friday, 15 March via SEQTA. 
• Identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement for each subject.
• Have specific questions prepared for the teacher seeking answers to the areas of strength and improvement.
• Seek clarity regarding one strategy suggested by the teacher your child could practice to improve their learning. This should provide helpful information to implement a plan that, over time, results in learning growth. 

More information will be communicated to parents next week.  Please look out for the information and take the time to make a booking where required.

Uniform Shop 

To coincide with the upcoming Parent Teacher Student interview meetings on Monday 18 March, the Uniform Shop will be open from 8am to 6pm. With Term 2 approaching and the need for blazers as part of the winter uniform, this will be an opportunity for parents to visit the Uniform Shop for fittings and purchases. Appointments are not necessary.  

Term 1- Key Dates 

Shani Andrews

Vice Principal - Head of Secondary

Expressions of Interest - Test Administrators

We are currently searching for adept individuals to join our team as test administrators for the forthcoming National Assessment Program for Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) examinations in March. Our Year 7 and Year 9 cohorts will undertake the four tests spanning a two-week period. As test administrators, your role will be paramount in safeguarding the integrity and accuracy of the testing procedures. Training will be a prerequisite for this responsibility.

We welcome qualified individuals with experience in exam invigilation or those eager to be a part of this endeavour to reach out to us by completing the Expressions of Interest form.

Pre-Constitutional Convention Breakfast

We congratulate Year 12 Politics and Law student Lucy Galvin, who has been selected to attend the 29th National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra next month. This is an outstanding achievement and a wonderful opportunity for Lucy to hear from expert speakers and learn about constitutional reform. Last year, Yvie Rigg, then a Year 12 student and College Captain, attended as a WA delegate. Yvie is now studying a Bachelor of Science at UWA, with hopes to complete a Juris Doctor following the completion of her studies. Earlier in the week, Yvie sat down with Lucy to share her experience at the Convention and to offer advice. 

'When I attended the Convention last year, I was given a unique opportunity to explore constitutional reform in a referendum year. I hope that Lucy will have an amazing time and soak everything up!' said Yvie Rigg (JTC Alumni).

'We are so lucky to have such an extensive community of high-achieving alumni who are willing to share their experiences with us,' said Lucy. 'Yvie has always been an outstanding role model, and her insights into the program were interesting and helpful. I am so looking forward to this experience and following in Yvie’s footsteps. Of course, none of this would be possible without Ms Farley offering opportunities to extend my learning beyond the classroom.’

Later this year, Year 11 Politics and Law students will have the opportunity to apply for the WA State Constitutional Convention, which is a requirement for any students wanting to apply for the National Convention in Canberra. We thank Yvie for taking time out of her busy schedule, and we wish Lucy the best at the Convention. We look forward to hearing about her experience in a later edition of the College Newsletter.

Daisy Farley

Head of Magis – Gifted and Talented Program

Year 11 General Geography - Rottnest Island Excursion

Sustainability, cycling and quokkas all in a day! Yesterday, Year 11 General Geography students attended their Term 1 excursion to Rottnest Island. Students were guided on an educational tour learning about sustainable practices on the island and developing a greater understanding of the human impact on the coastal environment. The tour included a visit to the Rottnest Island Nursery, which showcased various flora being used in rehabilitation projects around the island, and students also learned about the fauna monitoring program. The afternoon was spent on Pinky’s Beach completing exercises related to their practical mapping skills, including landscape sketching and remote sensing skills. Thank you in particular to Mr Chris Morris for accompanying the class and for his valuable contributions throughout the day. 

Kalo Bell

Geography Teacher - HASS

Year 7 Reflection Day and St Omer Camp

Reflection Day

Year 7 students participated in their Reflection Day on Wednesday, 21 February. The theme for the day was ‘Community in Christ’, where students focused on their relationships with family, friends and God and how they could make a difference in these different settings. The team from 24:7 Youth Ministry facilitated the day and provided an engaging and insightful program packed with activities, stories and opportunities for discussion and reflection.   

24:7 Youth Ministry run regular Youth Groups at parishes in our local area, please visit their website for details at www.247youthministry.org.

St Omer Camp

Last Thursday, Year 7 students embarked on their one-night St Omer Experience at Woodman Point in Coogee. From the moment we arrived at the campsite, there was an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. The students approached each activity with enthusiasm and a willingness to try new things. Whether it was conquering a high ropes course, shooting at archery, navigating through team-building challenges, competing in raft-building and dodgeball, or simply spending time building relationships, there were many moments of laughter, companionship, and a sense of accomplishment.

Seeing students step out of their comfort zones and support each other over the two-day camp was extremely rewarding. Students embraced the overnight experience, and watching them grow in confidence and resilience with each passing challenge was wonderful. There were many friendships formed and bonds within homerooms were strengthened. It was a fantastic journey for the students and the staff, filled with growth, learning, and lasting memories.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff who worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the camp: Clare Galati, Damian Owen, Bianca Van Duyn, Serena Percudani, Kylie Mavromatis, Matt Stanton, Janeen Murphy, Josh Bowen, Ella Brindley, Anna Davila, Simon Carrello, Catherine Roberts, Ciaran Gallagher, Carla Tripi, Ylenia Casadio, Dani De Witt Hemala, Nicky Britton and Julia Franz. Their passion, commitment, and expertise were instrumental in creating a safe, inclusive, and enriching environment for the students.

Finally, I want to congratulate the Year 7 cohort for their efforts and resilience demonstrated on camp. Their kindness, respect, and consideration demonstrated towards their peers and staff were a testament to their maturity and integrity as young individuals. I look forward to witnessing their continued growth and success throughout the year ahead. 

Morgan Ball

Assistant Deputy Principal – Year 7 

SPORT

Northern Associated Schools (NAS)

Our first NAS One Day Carnival was a great success. It was wonderful to see both year groups fully engaged and participating actively in an array of sports. The competition was of a very high standard, and that is a credit to all the training and commitment given by the students and staff in the lead-up.

A special congratulations to the following teams who came away Premiers.

• Year 7 Girls Frisbee
• Year 7 Boys Frisbee
• Year 8 Girls Frisbee
• Year 8 Boys Frisbee
• Year 7 Girls Indoor Beach Volleyball

For all final ladder placings, please visit this link.

Years 9/10 NAS Trials

• One Day Carnival Date – Wednesday 27 March.
• Trials Week 6 – please see the schedule below.
• All students will be involved in the day as either a team member, a student helper for a team or participating in the social grass court Volleyball Tournament on campus.
• Training afternoons will be Monday 11, Wednesday 13, Wednesday 20 and Monday 25 March from 3:30pm-4:30pm. Students unable to make all training days must communicate with the team coach.
• Students are to meet in the Pavilion in their PE uniform before their trial.
• Students are to complete the nomination form below if they haven’t already. This has been in the College notices NAS Nomination Form.

Year 7 Winter NAS / Lightning Carnival

All Year 7 students were asked to complete this Nomination Form by Friday, March 1 so that we can sort through nominations early. Trial information will be out later in the term.  

NAS Swimming

Our Years 7 to 10 Swimming Team competed in the NAS swimming meet today against Newman, Sacred Heart, Servite and Chisholm. The day was a huge success, and our team posted some very exciting times in preparation for the ACC A-Division Swimming Carnival. The ACC Swimming team will be posted in the College notices next week.

Cross-Country training

Cross-country training sessions are underway every Tuesday and Thursday from 7:00am-8:00am. These sessions will continue into Term 2 up until the ACC Cross-Country Carnival.  All students are welcome to join our morning training sessions. 

First XI Cricket

Another win under the belt for the First XI Cricket team against Belridge Secondary College B Team. It was a fight until the end and a very impressive win. Our game next week is at John XXIII against Butler College on Tuesday, 5 March from 1-30pm to 4:30pm.  If we secure the win, we will be through to the next round.

Belridge 8/134 after 20 overs           |                 JTC: 5/135 after 19 overs

Stand-out performances for the afternoon:

• Will Stockdale 50 off 42 and 1/10 from 2 overs
• Hunter Bovell 27 off 16 and 2/21 from 4 overs
• Asher Aylmore 2/14 from 4 overs

Interhouse Swimming Carnival

Dive into the excitement! Our Sr Mary Murray Cup Interhouse Swimming Carnival was a great success at HBF Stadium! Congrats to Loreto for their infectious spirit, earning them this year's Spirit Award! And a massive shoutout to Ward House, reigning champions of the day! 

Rowing Registrations -  Years 9 to 12

The John XXIII Rowing Club welcomes existing and new members for our 2024 season. Please complete the online Registration Form: 2024 Registration Form. Those who have not rowed before or would like to be a coxswain and represent the College are encouraged to register.

Congratulations

Congratulations to Gemma O'Brien, Year 11, for her incredible determination in taking on the Solo Rottnest Channel Swim on 24 February. Despite the race being called off at 10km due to safety concerns, Gemma's dedication to training for the 19.7km ocean swim is truly commendable. Special recognition goes to Lily Lucas, Year 10, for her support as a paddler. So wonderful to see our students embarking on these milestone adventures.

Jessica Pillera

Head of Sport