Secondary

Dear Families

Congratulations to our Year 12 Student Representative Council for their fundraising efforts in support of Jesuit Mission, raising over $10,000 for yesterday’s Ice Plunge Challenge! Their willingness to take up the challenge has brought our College values and mission to life as young people of competence, conscience and compassion. Thank you to the staff who joined the SRC in taking the plunge for this valuable cause, making the event a fun way to finish the term. Our objective was to raise $15,000 to help children in Hazaribag, India, access education. It is not too late to donate, and your support reminds us that together we can make a meaningful difference to the lives of others. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible and can be made via the Jesuit Mission website Jesuit Mission - John XXIII Year 12. 

As our Year 12 students near the end of their Secondary journey, we celebrated the end of term with a lunch and dress-up day on Wednesday. We wish them every success with their upcoming work placements, course completion, and ATAR examinations over the coming weeks, and we look forward to our Valete celebrations with them and their families early next term.  

Congratulations to our talented Music students who wowed the audience with their final performances at Wednesday’s Year 12 Recital Night, a special way to mark the end of their association with the Music program.  

The commencement of Term 4 will see some staffing changes, with Josephine Daniele and Morgan Ball taking leave for the remainder of the year. We wish Josephine a relaxing break, and Morgan love and happiness as she prepares to welcome her baby into the world. In Morgan’s absence, we welcome Kait Green to the role of Assistant Deputy Principal – Year 9 for Term 4. We look forward to welcoming back Jodi Power and Brianna Gray who will return from long service leave, and we thank Sofie Marquardt, Martina Cocco, Bridie Fisher and Jo Ferguson-Allen, who have assisted in covering classes in their absence. We also thank Jacqueline Freeman, who has covered Isobel Westmerland’s classes whilst she has been on leave. 

I also wish to take this opportunity to thank and say farewell to the John XXIII community as I finish at the College. I have greatly appreciated the trust that families have placed in the College and for their partnership in working together to nurture their children’s educational journey. I will always be grateful for the time spent serving John XXIII College.  

Wishing students and families a happy, restful and safe holiday break, and all the very best to our Year 12 students as they finish their John XXIII journey.  

Summer Uniform  

The new term will see students transition into their summer uniform. As the weather can still be cool at the start of the term, students may wear the correct summer or winter uniform until Monday 26 October (Term 4, Week 3). The Uniform Code is available here, and staff are guided by the Positive Behaviour Framework to address instances when students do not wear the uniform correctly. 

2027 Student Diaries 

As a tool to support students’ organisation and time management with their learning program, in 2027 the student diary will be provided to all Years 7, 8 and 9 students and will be offered to students in Years 10 to 12 who wish to continue using a hard copy organiser. Please complete the link below to order a College-provided diary for your child who will be in Years 10 to 12 in 2027. 

2027 Student Diary Order Form – Fill out form 

WA Student Assistance Payment 

The WA Student Assistance Payment helps parents and carers with cost-of-living pressures associated with sending their children to school. 

All Western Australian school students with an active enrolment at a public school, non-government school or registered for home education are eligible for the WA Student Assistance Payment. 

You can claim $250 for each secondary student and $150 for students attending primary school or Kindergarten. 

The fastest and most convenient way to claim is through the ServiceWA app. More information on how to claim through the ServiceWA app is available at WA.gov.au/WASAP2026 

All claims must be received by Friday 25 September 2026. More information can be found at WA Student Assistance Payment.  

Shani Andrews

Vice Principal - Head of Secondary

Middle Years Challenge

This term, students across Years 7 to 9 have embraced the Middle Years Challenge Cup, an initiative designed to encourage both individual and collective commitment to excellence in uniform standards.

Throughout the term, students earned points for their Homerooms by consistently demonstrating pride in their presentation and adherence to the College uniform expectations. While the Challenge Cup has a competitive element, its broader aim is to strengthen belonging, teamwork, and pride across the Middle Years.

We are delighted to announce this term's winning Homerooms:

🏆 Year 7 - St Louis

🏆 Year 8 - Campion

🏆 Year 9 – Loreto

As a reward for their outstanding efforts, each winning Homeroom enjoyed a celebratory lunch together, selected by the students themselves. They will also have the honour of displaying the Middle Years Challenge Cup throughout next term until the competition resets and begins again.

While we congratulate our winners, the greatest success of the Challenge Cup has been the positive impact seen across Years 7 to 9 students. Improved uniform standards, a stronger sense of unity, and increased pride in belonging to the College have been evident throughout the term.

Well done to all students for their commitment and enthusiasm. We look forward to seeing the Challenge Cup continue to inspire excellence, teamwork and school pride in Term 4.

Donna Kolka 

Head of Middle Years

Old Testament Heroes Bring Learning to Life

When learning goes deep, it moves beyond the classroom and creates meaningful connections with others.

This term, our Year 7 students have been exploring significant Old Testament characters, including their relationship with God, the challenges they faced, and the important lessons their stories continue to teach us today. Through studying these biblical figures, students considered how people such as Abraham, Moses, Ruth, David, Miriam and Esther can serve as positive role models, inspiring us to reflect on the type of people we want to become.

As part of their assessment, students creatively designed and authored their own storybooks based on these Old Testament characters, bringing Scripture to life for a younger audience. The task challenged students to delve deeply into the stories, analyse the characters' faith journeys, and communicate these lessons through engaging and age-appropriate storytelling.

During Week 10, Year 7 students visited the Primary School to co-read their newly created books with younger students. This wonderful experience strengthened relationships between primary and secondary students while promoting literacy, reading, and storytelling across both campuses.

The pride and enthusiasm displayed by our Year 7 students was a joy to witness. Sharing their work with an authentic audience encouraged confidence, creativity, and effective communication, while also demonstrating a deep understanding of the Old Testament stories they had studied throughout the term.

This project was a fantastic example of learning at its best, bringing together Religious Education, literacy, creativity, critical thinking, and community connection in a meaningful and memorable way.

Congratulations to all of our Year 7 students on their outstanding effort and creativity. A special thank you to our dedicated teachers for designing and guiding this rich learning experience. Together, they have shown how deep learning can inspire faith, foster literacy, and build community. 

Lana Gregory Turner

Head of Learning Area - Religious Education

ATAR Language Meals 

Over the last few weeks, our ATAR Year 12 French, Italian and Japanese students have been working hard and preparing for their oral practical assessments and examinations. To conclude the term, we shared a few meals.

The Year 12 Japanese class shared a Japanese Bento lunch at school. The French students enjoyed a French meal at Chez Pierre, and the Years 11 and 12 students of Italian enjoyed Italian antipasti, pasta, pizza and gelato at the Secret Italian Restaurant. It was an opportunity to enjoy the company of their classmates while sharing an authentic meal with their teachers. We wish our students success over the next few weeks in their written and WACE examinations. Thank you to Aghdasi Sensei, Prof Polizzi and Madame Griffin-Appadoo for the support, guidance and care with the ATAR students. 

Italian Film Festival 

Last week, both Year 10 Italian classes with Prof Cinini and Prof Polizzi, went to watch the film called Incanto, as part of the Italian Film Festival. 

Incanto, written and directed by Pier Paolo Paganalli, is a magical family tale about the importance of imagination and kindness. On his deathbed, Ludovico entrusts his ten-year-old daughter Margot to the housekeeper, Felicia (Vittoria Puccini), requesting that the family villa be transformed into an orphanage so that the little girl can grow up with other children. But the wicked Felicia only wants the little girl’s assets, so she exploits the orphaned children and neglects Margot, who is confined to a room upstairs. However, one night Margot manages to escape and, after overcoming the darkness of the woods, she comes across a travelling circus. Greeted by the white clown Charlie, Margot learns the secret that makes their circus unique: the old big top is magical, capable of showing anyone who enters its ring who they truly are.

Students enjoyed watching an Italian film while learning about the importance of kindness, resilience, hope and family. 

Melissa Polizzi

Head of Learning Area - Languages 

Year 7 Reconciliation Experience

While the Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered to students in Years 8, 10 and 12, Year 7s are invited to participate experientially in aspects of the sacrament. Each session begins with a short Liturgy of the Word that includes the gospel of the Lost Son and an examination of conscience. Students then engage in group activities, such as reflecting on the gospel story, writing and then burning any wrongdoing, writing a letter to God, creating a prayer and walking the labyrinth. The students have previously had the opportunity to feel comfortable in the Chapel space, and engaged thoughtfully in each of the stations. Some students have kindly agreed to share their review of the session. 

I liked the burning station because I got to write something that I am not proud of and burn it.

Rosie

I liked the poem bit because it made me reflect and remember about all the people who passed away, especially my grandfather.

Isaac

My favourite part was the walk because it felt so calming in the labyrinth, and you just felt all worries for some time. 

Ronan

I enjoyed writing prayers to God and pegging them on the wall.

Reggie

I liked writing a prayer to God because it felt personal and made me feel closer to God.

Abbie

I enjoyed writing down the sins we committed and then burning them. It felt like getting a heavy weight of worry off your shoulders.

Leona

The labyrinth was an enjoyable yet calm experience. It was nice to see where the labyrinth took me to!

Ellen

I liked the labyrinth and how it used every corner of it to get to the end, along with the engraved text at the end. I also liked the burning, which looked really pretty.

Liberty

I liked how calm the atmosphere was.

Daniel

Mary-Anne Lumley

College Liturgist

Visual Arts Exhibition

Join us for the opening of the 2026 John XXIII College Visual Arts Exhibition in the Thomas More Exhibition Centre. This year’s exhibition showcases the creativity and skill of our Visual Arts students, with an inspiring display of paintings, sculptures, prints, crafts, drawings, and ceramic works.

Opening Night Event

Monday 19 October, 5:30pm – all are welcome to attend; however, registration is essential.

Includes light refreshments. The exhibition opens, followed by the College Media Night at 7:30pm in the Gonzaga Barry Lecture Theatre.

RSVP: https://www.trybooking.com/1654178

Exhibition Dates

Monday 19 – Friday 23 October: 9:00am – 4:00pm

Saturday 24 October: 11:00am – 2:00pm

Celebrate excellence in Visual Arts and take part in the People’s Choice Award by voting for your favourite piece.

Media Night

Monday 19 October 7:30pm to 8:45pm

Lights, camera… wait, is that light flickering? Step through the doorway and join us for Media Night, where our theatre foyer becomes somewhere you might not have meant to end up. Fortunately, the only thing waiting for you on the other side is an evening of remarkable student filmmaking.

This year's showcase features a variety of senior student films spanning genres and art cinema. Alongside them, work from our Years 8 to 10 students: slick advertisements, broadcast graphics, and virtual production sequences that put performers in places they've never actually been.

Media Night follows directly on from the Art Exhibition Opening, so make an evening of it – wander the exhibition, then find your way through to us.

• Cinema snacks to tickle your taste buds – and a little something extra for every guest to take home
• A valuable opportunity for aspiring media students to explore the world of Media as a course
•  All films rated PG – everyone's welcome

Don't miss your chance to be part of an unforgettable night celebrating creativity, storytelling, and cinematic excellence. Just don't wander off down any corridors on your way out.

RSVP essential: https://www.trybooking.com/1653134

15 October Admission and Scholarships to Top US & UK Universities Presentation – Years 9 to 12 Students

John XXIII College is excited to host a free one-hour presentation for students and families in Years 9 - 12 on how Australian students can secure admission to the top US & UK universities, presented by Jack Anderson, two-time WA Young Australian of the Year, Harvard Graduate, Schwarzman Scholar, and Churchill Fellow. 

Find out more and book tickets HERE.

SPORT

Term 3 has been an action-packed season of sport at John XXIII College, showcasing the incredible talent, teamwork and spirit of our students. Interhouse Athletics, Athletics Season, Rowing, Netball, NAS Sport, Surfing and Volleyball. A huge thank you to all students, staff and families who have supported the program. Your continued commitment builds and maintains the wonderful sporting culture at JTC.  

Year 7 Summer NAS

We had a wonderful first week of Year 7 NAS Trials. All students were well organised and gave their best efforts. Please see the schedule below for round two of trials first week back.

• Trials 2 - Term 4, Week 1
  • If you are unable to make a trial, please inform Ms Pillera or Mr Kowal
  • Teams will be posted at the end of Week 1 next Term
• Trainings - Week 2, 3 and 4
  • Pay attention to all training dates and times as it may not be the same each week
  • If you cannot make a training session you must let your team teacher know
  • At the Week 4 training there will be a sausage sizzle for all teams
• Carnival - Week 4, Thursday 5 November from 7:45am to 3:00pm

Staff

Year 8 Summer NAS

Please find the link below for the Summer NAS Nominations. All students must complete the form before Wednesday of Week 1 next term. You can only complete the form once; please take your time when completing it.

All students must be involved on the day, you can nominate for NAS Teams to trial for, student helper or to play social Volleyball.

Year 8 Summer NAS   – Fill out form 

• Trials - Weeks 2 and 3
  • If you are unable to make a trial, please inform Ms Pillera or Mr Kowal
  • Teams will be posted at the end of Week 3 next term
• Trainings - Weeks 4 and 5
  • Pay attention to all training dates and times as it may not be the same each week
  • If you cannot make a training session you must let you team teacher know
• Carnival - Week 6, Thursday 17 November, 7:45am-3:00pm

Staffing

Trial and Training Schedule 

Years 9/10 Girls and Boys SSWA Water Polo 

Water Polo dates and times for Term 4 are indicated below. Thank you to those who have registered their interest. Sessions will be conducted at Claremont Pool.

• Trial 1: Wednesday 21 October | 3:30pm - 4:30pm
• Trial 2: Wednesday 28 October | 3:30pm - 4:30pm
• Training 1: Wednesday 4 November | 3:30pm - 4:30pm

Jessica Pillera

Head of Sport

Congratulations

Congratulations to Ashlee in Year 8, who has been accepted into the Claremont Football Club's Female Talent Development Squad. Ashlee will compete against other clubs during the school holidays as part of the program. We wish her the best of luck and look forward to hearing how she goes!

Share your child’s achievements

We love celebrating the wonderful achievements of our students in this section of the newsletter. If your child has recently represented at a regional, state, or national level, or been part of a team that has achieved a significant result (such as a premiership or championship), we would love to hear about it!

Families are invited to share details and a photo by emailing newsletter@johnxxiii.edu.au. Please include your child’s name, year group, event or activity, and a brief description of the achievement.

To ensure fairness and consistency, we can only feature information received directly from families that meets the above criteria. If no image or details are provided, we may not be able to include your child’s achievement in the newsletter.