PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

Greetings and welcome to the sixth issue of Community for the year. Although we published our previous newsletter a mere three weeks ago, I think you will be surprised to see how much we have to share with you.

EMPOWERED TO GROW

Students are naturally curious. They want to know more about the world and their place in it. However, while the world is a fascinating place, it can also be quite intimidating. As individuals, young people need to know that they can explore their talents and grow with just the right amount and type of support available when they need it. 

At St Joseph’s College, pastoral care cultivates support by emphasising belonging and individual value within a community. This means that students can turn to their classmates, as well as teachers and other staff for encouragement and assistance, depending on the context of their needs. 

Year level camps and group projects are excellent examples of students supporting students to grow and become more independent. While they can approach their teachers at any time, young people feel more empowered to turn to one another to solve problems in these situations. See this in action when you read about students working together to achieve shared goals both at the College and on the Year 7 Camp in Victor Harbor, the Year 9 Camp in Central Australia, and the Year 11 Snow Camp.

IN THIS ISSUE

Keep reading for an update from the Health and Physical Education Learning Area, a special look at a fantastic VET Tourism student collaboration, and a flashback to Australian Business Week. Plus, you will not want to miss snapshots of the latest sporting achievements, news on Structured Workplace Learning opportunities, our Father's Day Breakfast, and a recap of our VCE Music Performance Evening. 

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

The final day of Term 3 is tomorrow, Friday 18 September. While some students will relax over the forthcoming fortnight, others will shift gears and pursue other objectives:

• As in previous years, we have invited students studying a Unit 3/4 VCE subject to sit practice exams on 21, 22 and 23 September. We have arranged for invigilators to facilitate these exams to accurately replicate VCAA conditions. Participating students must wear their College uniform to these exams. This is an excellent opportunity for students to acclimate themselves to the authentic exam environment.

• Our Human Powered Vehicle Team will travel to Murray Bridge tomorrow, Friday 18 September, to compete in the gruelling 24 hour race. Join me in wishing them safe travels, amazing racing, and Godspeed. For updates on all the action, make sure to check the College’s Instagram account.

• In the first week of holidays, I and three other chaperones will accompany eighteen eager students on the Italian Cultural Tour. As we travel from Rome to Sorrento, Florence, Venice, Verona and Milan, students will improve their language skills and learn more about Italian culture and history. We leave on Thursday 24 September and return on Saturday 10 October – just in time for Week 2 of Term 4.

• The College Office will be open over the school holidays, but the hours will be reduced. For holiday office hours, please see the College News page.  

• When Term 4 begins on Monday 5 October, students are expected to wear their full summer uniform. Should you need to update any pieces, see the Uniform Shop page for their holiday opening hours.

However you and your family choose to spend the school holidays, I hope you will enjoy time together relaxing and pursuing favourite pastimes. 

In the spirit of hope and faith,

Mr Greg Kluske

College Principal