From the Deputy Principals

NAPLAN Online 2024

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) testing plays a significant role in assessing our students' literacy and numeracy skills. NAPLAN is a national assessment that students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 undertake each year to evaluate their progress in essential skills such as reading, writing, and numeracy. NAPLAN testing takes place in Term 1.

It is essential for parents to understand that students are not expected to study specifically for NAPLAN. Instead, we encourage you to support your child by reassuring them to do their best and understand that NAPLAN is a part of their school program. Teachers will prepare students for the test format and provide necessary support.

NAPLAN results are reported against proficiency standards, allowing for a clear understanding of student achievement. These results are valuable for discussing progress with teachers, identifying areas for improvement, and setting goals in literacy and numeracy.

Our students are already engaged in learning tasks to equip them for the assessments ahead. The schedule for NAPLAN Online at St Norbert College is:

• Writing:      Wednesday 13 March
• Reading:    Thursday 14 March
• Conventions of Language:    Friday 15 March
• Numeracy:      Monday 18 March

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, so catch-up sessions will be arranged during the NAPLAN assessment window to ensure that all students have the opportunity to complete the assessments.

A brochure for parents and carers is available online. Further details regarding the NAPLAN Online at St Norbert College will be made available to students in the coming weeks and further information about the NAPLAN testing can be found at:

https://k10outline.scsa.wa.edu.au/home/assessment/testing/naplan 

https://www.nap.edu.au/home

Class of 2024 Start the Year Under the Stars

The Class of 2024 commenced their final year with the Year 12 Ball held at Fraser’s Restaurant in Kings Park. Embracing the theme of ‘A Night Under the Stars’, our students arrived dressed to impress, embodying the poised young adults they are growing into. We extend our thanks to staff members; Miss Pisconeri, Miss MaGee, and Mr Mecham as well as the students on the Ball Committee for organising such a wonderful event.

Year 12 Parent Information Evening

In the second week of the Term, our students and their families gathered virtually for the Year 12 Parent Information night. This session provided valuable insights into SCSA requirements, WACE and the upcoming St Norbert College Graduation. Discussions also focused around the responsibilities and privileges that come with being a Year 12 student. For those who couldn't attend, the PowerPoint presentation and recording are available on the SNC Graduating Class of 2024 Team, providing valuable resources and updates for the year ahead.

Year 12 Start of Year Assemblies

The Year 12 Assembly took place on Monday, 12 February 2024 at Xanten Theatre and emphasised goal setting, academic excellence, and student responsibilities. Mrs Markich discussed the Assessment Policy, Ms Loh focused on goal setting and Ms MaGee presented on the College’s Student Charter. The assembly highlighted the importance of balance, hard work and a positive school community for student success. A PDF copy of the PowerPoint will also be available to download from the SNC Graduating Class of 2024 Team.

Equitable Access Adjustments for ATAR Course Examinations

Students with disabilities, illnesses or impairments are entitled to access appropriate and fair alternative arrangements in ATAR Course Examinations if their condition prevents them from accessing assessments under standard conditions. These arrangements may include access to food, drink, medication, or special equipment, as well as special format examination papers, rest breaks, extra working time, a scribe, or a computer. Applications for equitable access adjustments are submitted to SCSA by the College on behalf of ATAR students and can be made for both written and practical ATAR Course examinations.

Please contact Mr Roger D’Almeida as soon as possible if you wish to apply for equitable access adjustments for your child. Applications are due to SCSA by 21 March 2024. More information regarding Special Provisions for ATAR course examinations is available through SCSA.

Hot Weather 

As temperatures soar across the state, St Norbert College is taking proactive steps to ensure the well-being of our students and staff during hot weather conditions.

Physical Education lessons have been modified to be held indoors, prioritising the safety of our students. Alternative indoor spaces are provided for breaks and eating times, minimising exposure to the heat. Walk-throughs and check-ins with staff and students help monitor the impact of the weather on our school community.

To stay hydrated, students are encouraged to use water bottles in class, while large industrial fans and open doors/windows or air conditioning in indoor spaces help maintain a comfortable environment during activities.

We also urge parents to reinforce sun-smart practices by ensuring their children wear their College hats to and from school. Together, let's prioritise safety and well-being during hot weather conditions.

Mr R D'Almeida

(Deputy Principal Years 9 & 12)

SUNSMART 

Parents are asked to ensure that their son or daughter is equipped with a College hat so they can participate in Physical Education classes, outdoor activities, excursions and play at break times on the oval. Students are also encouraged to wear their hat while travelling to and from the College and to apply sunscreen each morning. If students do not have their College cap or hat for their outdoor activities and lessons, they will be asked to move under cover.

OPEN DAY

A reminder that our annual Open Day is on Friday 1 March. Tours will be conducted by our students at 9am and 1pm from the Xanten Performing Arts Foyer (corner or Treasure Road and Centre Street). Please spread the word about our wonderful College. Enrolments are encouraged prior to Year 5 to secure a place so this is a great opportunity to visit our College with your children. Register for a tour via the link:  https://www.trybooking.com/COTBT 

UNIFORM AND PERSONAL PRESENTATION

It is important that students present appropriately with the correct uniform and the expected standard of presentation throughout the school year. Students are reminded to be suitably attired in their Summer uniform for Term One. Students also have use of the change rooms, therefore, they should be arriving and leaving school in their full summer uniform (not PE uniforms).

The College expectations in regards to uniform and personal presentation are that:

Hair

• Hair should be clean, neat and tidy (combed and brushed away from the face).
• Extreme hairstyles are not permitted – This could include haircuts that are less than a Number 2 and lines, patterns or tracks. Contrasting lengths should be blended where possible.
• Extreme tonal contrast and unnatural hair colour is not permitted.
• Shoulder length hair should all be tied back firmly and away from the face.  Any hair that is unable to be held back securely needs to be pinned back with clips or a hairband.
• Fringes must be no lower than the eyebrows.
• Hair trims (e.g. head bands, scrunchies and ribbons) need to be blue or gold/yellow. Ties may be of a natural hair colour.
• Male students must be clean shaven; sideburns are to be maintained and above the base of the ear.

Jewellery

• Students are permitted to wear one pair of earrings in the lower ear lobe.  Earrings should be small, plain silver or gold sleepers or studs. No large or decorative earrings are permitted. No other piercings are permitted.
• Students may wear one gold or silver neck chain and a watch. Only Christian religious symbols are acceptable as pendants on neck chains. 
• Students may not wear any other jewellery.

Other

• Make up must not be worn.
• Acrylic nails and nail polish (including French Polishing) are not permitted. Nails should be kept at a short, safe length.
• Tattoos are not permitted.
• Uniforms need to be well presented and washed regularly
• Students are not to mix and match items of uniform. Either full College summer/winter OR full College sports uniform is to be worn.
• Eyelash enhancements and eyebrow tinting are not permitted.

CHILD SAFE FRAMEWORK

Catholic Education WA schools are Christ-centred and child-focused learning communities that support each child to develop to their full God-given potential. Key to this is ensuring the learning environment is engaging, supportive and safe. All members of our school share the responsibility for creating and maintaining this healthy culture. By working together, we can ensure all children flourish in a safe and healthy environment.

Recognising that each child has the right to be heard is an important element in the CEWA Child Safe framework. At S Norbert College, we teach students that they have the right to be safe and we empower them with the language, skills and strategies to assist in their safety by talking to people that they trust. It is a requirement that all students receive a protective behaviours and sexual abuse prevention education (10.6 Registration Standards for Non-Government Schools).

At St Norbert College we are implementing the Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum (KS:CPC) which is an evidence-based child safety curriculum that teaches children to recognise abuse, tell a trusted adult, understand what is appropriate and inappropriate touching and ways of keeping themselves safe. The KS:CPC fits primarily within the Health and Physical Education learning area of the Australian Curriculum but is also taught across multiple learning areas.

The curriculum is based on two main themes:

• We all have the right to be safe
• We can help ourselves to be safe by talking to people we trust.

The themes are presented through four Focus Areas:

1. The right to be safe

2. Relationships

3. Recognising and reporting abuse

4. Protective strategies

More information will be provided during the year on the Child Safe Framework.

To view the CEWA Commitment Statement click the link:

https://childsafe.cewa.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/CEWA-Commitment-Statement.pdf

To download the Brochure, click the link:

https://childsafe.cewa.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Child-safe-Catholic-schools-A5-Brochure.pdf

Miss C Abel

(Deputy Principal Years 8 & 11)

Year 7 and Year 10 - New Students and parents

We extend a warm welcome to all new students, parents, and guardians to our College community. It was a busy start to the academic year, and we commend our new students for their smooth transition to the College.  If students need some help, we have a comprehensive support network available to assist them, which includes their Peer Support Leaders, the dedicated Homeroom teachers, the Head of Year 7, the Head of Houses and the classroom teachers.

It was a pleasure to meet the parents and guardians of our new students at the recent Parent Seminar. The event provided an excellent opportunity for us to welcome you to the College and for parents to meet their child’s Homeroom teacher.  If you were unable to attend the Parent Seminar, kindly collect your information envelope from Mr Ah Fong.  We look forward to a continued partnership and ongoing support from parents and guardians.  Together, we can foster an environment where our students thrive academically, socially, personally and in faith.

Mobile Phones

A reminder that students should place their mobile phone and bags into their lockers upon arrival at school.  Mobile phones should not be used during the school day. Any urgent calls to parents/guardians need to be made using the phone in Student Services. This policy is in place to ensure that students are not distracted by their phones and to create a safe environment for all members of our community. 

Parents on school ground

A reminder that parents must sign in at the College Reception if they need to be on school grounds.  Knowing who is within our College premises will assist us in effective monitoring to maintain a secure and safe environment.

Homework Club -Year 7

The College will run after-school homework club every Thursday from 3:30pm to 4:00pm in the library.  This is an opportunity for our Year 7 Students to get support in developing their organisation and study skills in completing their homework.  Further enquiries may be directed to Mrs Tracey La Vanda, Head of Year 7. 

Assessment Catch-Up

The College values student attendance, and the ability of teachers to complete marking and feedback in a timely manner. When a student is absent from an in-class assessment such as a test, the teacher will contact a parent or guardian to inform them of the absence and the date for the required assessment catch-up.

The College’s expectation is that a student attends the next scheduled assessment catch-up upon their return to the College, and the student's circumstances will be considered when scheduling the catch-up session. All long-term absences will require consideration by the teacher in discussion with the relevant Head of Learning Area.

Please note that the assessment catch-up does not apply to practical assessments, overdue assignments or examinations.  Assessment catch-up runs from Tuesday through to Friday from 3.30pm to 4.30pm in P7, except for Thursday which is from 7.40am to 8.40am.

Student Code of Conduct and Levels of Behaviours

In 2023, St Norbert College, in collaboration with students, created a student Code of Conduct. This initiative was designed to create an environment where every student feels safe, included, and respected, and part of a positive College community. The Code of Conduct outlines how this positive atmosphere can be maintained in class, on school grounds, and online.

This year, we introduced the Levels of Behaviour Framework for Year 7 students. This framework aims to establish a common understanding of behaviours that enhance learning in class and how students will be supported. The Levels of Behaviours clearly define the helpful behaviours (green), minor unhelpful behaviours (yellow), moderate unhelpful behaviours (orange), and severe unhelpful behaviours (red). We encourage students to strive for green behaviours, which are rewarded with Merits from their teachers and positive notifications to their parents and guardians. We have emphasised that red behaviours are not acceptable at the College and will lead to serious consequences.

St Norbert College is a thriving community where each student plays an important role in ensuring an atmosphere of safety, inclusion, and respect. We encourage parents, as partners in the education of their children, to discuss the College’s expectations, as outlined in the Code of Conduct and Levels of Behaviours, with their children.  Our Student Code of Conduct and Levels of Behaviours are attached below:

Academic Awards

The first College Assembly for the year was an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of our students, including class of 2023. 

The College acknowledged students of class 2023 who are now part of the “95 Club” as they have achieved an ATAR of 95 or more. Students who received a Certificate of Merit or Certificate of Distinction from the School Curriculum and Standards Authority of Western Australia (SCSA) and students who received a VET Certificate of Excellence were also invited.

We congratulate Jonathon Le for achieving an ATAR score of 97.15 which was the highest ATAR score for the cohort.  Jonathon has received a full scholarship from University of Western Australia to study Biomedicine.  In the Vocational pathway, we celebrate the achievements of:

• Nicholas Kelly: Nicholas received a VET Exhibition award and a VET Certificate of Excellence in Construction Industry.
• Luke Seaman:  Luke was awarded VET Certificate of excellence in Automotive, Engineering and Logistics.
• Anthony Paradiso, who was our Year 11 Dux and now member of the “95 Club”, was our student guest speaker.  He shared his personal journey towards achieving his ATAR and advised that students strive for their personal best, regardless of their chosen pathway. Anthony highlighted the importance of self-care and taking time to unwind.  He likened Year 12 to a marathon, as students have to stay committed to their studies.

Year 11 students were also presented with their Academic Honours badge.  To receive an Academic Honours Badge, students must have received an “A” Grade average in Year 11, calculated at the end of Semester 2 last year.  An Honours badge represents excellence, commitment, and effort over time. The College recognised the achievements of the following students: Lucy Nancarrow, Katie Seroney, Beverly Watson, Isabella Zeeb, Sofiya Dulal and Marley Kago.

A number of our students were awarded Academic Distinction and/or Ad Omnia Paratus.  The Academic Distinction is awarded to a student who has achieved an ‘A’ grade in nearly all subjects. The Ad Omnia Paratus Award recognises the learning behaviours of a student in class by achieving at least 85% of excellent ratings awarded by subject teachers in the attributes of: Application, Behaviour, Organisation, and Engagement in class. In addition to this, the student maintains high standards of learning behaviour, with all attribute ratings being higher than Satisfactory. The College congratulates all our award winners and affirms their efforts to be the best they can be.  The full list of all our award winners can be viewed here: 

 Congratulations to all award winners.

OLNA 2024

The OLNA is an online literacy and numeracy assessment and is designed to enable students to successfully meet the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) requirement of demonstrating the minimum standard of literacy and numeracy.  The OLNA comprises three components -Reading, Writing and Numeracy. Students are allowed 50 minutes for the Reading and Numeracy components and 60 minutes for the Writing component.  Further details regarding OLNA can be accessed here: https://k10outline.scsa.wa.edu.au/home/assessment/testing/olna.  Parents can also direct enquiries at olna@scsa.wa.edu.au. 

Parents and students can view the latest OLNA results on SEQTA for Year 10, 11 and 12.  Congratulations to those students who achieved their OLNA. Students who have not achieved a category 3 in one or more of the three components of reading, writing, and numeracy will have to sit the corresponding OLNA test.

The Year 10's will sit their OLNA in Term 2 and further information will be communicated towards the end of Term 1.  Please note that the Year 10's will only have one sit available this year, as the Year 9's sit is considered as part of the 2 sits available.

The Year 11 and Year 12 students will sit OLNA during the Term 1 window from 26 February to 8 March.  Parents were emailed details of the OLNA scheduled test, which can also be viewed here:  

Parents and guardians can also contact their child’s English and Mathematics teachers on how their child can improve their OLNA results.  Students can prepare themselves for their OLNA by doing practice tests and attending OLNA workshops organised by the College.  Further details can be viewed here OLNA Preparation and Workshop (see attachment).  A reminder that if students are absent they must sit their catch-up OLNA test the next day they attend school.

Mr P Ah Fong

(Deputy Principal Years 7 & 10)