Secondary

Dear Families 

National Reconciliation Week  

National Reconciliation Week (Monday 27 May to 3 June) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The dates for National Reconciliation Week commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey – the 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision respectively. The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue. At our Secondary Assembly last week, we welcomed Professor Simon Forrest, highly respected Noongar elder to address students in preparation for Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week. His emphasis on the need for action beyond understanding, empathy and mutual respect served as a reminder for the need for each of us to commit ourselves to the principles of reconciliation so we can indeed ‘seek justice’. 

In recognition of Reconciliation Week, the table below outlines a range of activities that have been organised for staff and students to continue learning about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort.  

This coincides with Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) Week. Lunchtime activities and events will include an Indigenous-themed documentary screening, a reconciliation Amazing Race and the annual HASS Week BBQ on Friday, 31 May, to raise money for Indigenous support programs run by Caritas. There will also be Homeroom challenges taking place throughout the week, testing the knowledge of students on Indigenous reconciliation and the Humanities and Social Sciences.  

Thank you so much to the Primary parents who generously provided staff with a delicious morning tea today. We really appreciate your kindness!

Congratulations to all the musicians who performed at last week’s Autumn Soiree! The audience was entertained by a wonderful showcase of the various ensembles within the Music Program. Well done, also, to our Year 9 Drama students who performed creatively last night at the Drama Night. All the best to the ACC Cross-Country Team, who have been training hard in preparation for next Thursday’s Interschool carnival.  

Term 2 Dates 

Shani Andrews

Vice Principal - Head of Secondary

South American Food Truck

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure right on campus! This Wednesday 29 May, during recess, the student-hosted South American Food Truck will be serving up a tantalising selection of dishes from across the continent. For just $5 each, you can savour authentic flavours from Brazil, Honduras, Chile, Guatemala, and Ecuador.

Menu Highlights

• Brazilian Chicken Stew: A hearty stew served with rice and roast potatoes
• Honduran Baleadas: Enjoy these delicious meat-filled tortilla wraps
• Chilean Beef Empanadas: Savoury beef empanadas paired with a zesty tomato salsa
• Guatemalan Mixtas: Delight in chorizo sausage served on a homemade pancake tortilla
• Ecuadorian Arroz Con Pollo: Savour this authentic chicken casserole with rice

Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to taste these delectable South American dishes. Join us at the food truck during recess and support our students while enjoying a delicious meal!

Walk for Reconciliation with Dylan Collard

The John XXIII College community recently had the privilege of participating in a Walk for Reconciliation at Galbamaanup (Lake Claremont) with Dylan Collard. This event was not only a scenic exploration of a significant natural site but also an enlightening journey into the rich cultural heritage of the local Indigenous people.

The session began with a profound Welcome to Country by Professor Simon Forrest. His address was both stirring and reflective, urging attendees to actively participate in the ongoing journey of reconciliation. He emphasised the importance of understanding and support in this collective effort, setting a thoughtful tone for the day's activities.

Dylan Collard then took the group on an educational walk, sharing his extensive knowledge of the area's language, history, and culture. His insights provided a deeper appreciation of the land and the traditions of its original custodians. Participants were able to connect with the environment in a meaningful way, recognising the significance of Galbamaanup beyond its natural beauty.

This event was particularly timely as it led into National Reconciliation Week, a period dedicated to fostering understanding and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. By engaging in such activities, the John XXIII College community demonstrated their commitment to building a more inclusive and reconciled nation.

Coffee and Conversations - Year 12 Parents meet UWA and ND universities

Year 12 parents and guardians are warmly invited to an informal coffee and pastries morning with representatives from the University of Western Australia and Notre Dame University. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about admissions, courses, early entry, scholarships, support services, and more.

Date: Tuesday 18 June 2024, 8:00am to 9:00am

Creating a healthy relationship with food for the family

Dr Kyla Smith, a Perth-based paediatric dietitian with 18 years of experience, will share evidence-based tips to help your children love their food and feel good about eating.

• Tuesday 11 June 2024
• 7:30am - 9:00am
• Gonzaga Barry Lecture Theatre
• Light breakfast provided
• RSVP by Friday 7 June: https://www.trybooking.com/1225400

Hosted by INSPIRE Parent Association.

Building Courage and Resilience in Children and Adolescents

Join Karen Young, founder of 'Hey Sigmund' and author of bestselling books, for an informative session on helping children build courage and resilience. Learn practical tools and strategies to support your children in overcoming adversity and fostering a brave mindset.

• Monday 22 July 2024
• 6:00pm - 7:30pm
• Gonzaga Barry Lecture Theatre
• RSVP  https://www.trybooking.com/1225467

Hosted by INSPIRE Parent Association.

Tommy Sugo helping with our fundraising

John XXIII Rowing Club is raising funds to assist with the purchase and repair costs of rowing equipment.

Are you ready to embark on a mouthwatering culinary journey while supporting our beloved Rowing Club? Look no further because Tommy Sugo's gourmet pasta range is here to satisfy your cravings and help our Club thrive. 

Don't miss out on the opportunity to savour delectable meals, while supporting our Rowing Club. Click the link below to explore the mouthwatering options and place your order today!

Calling all artists – Christmas art competition

Students of John XXIII College are invited to create an original artwork on the theme of ‘Christmas’.  The winning entry will appear on the Principal’s 2024 Christmas card. 

Artwork Specifications 

• Size: A4 or A3 
• Medium: 2D (drawing, painting, collage, digital) 

How to Enter 

• Secondary: submit entries at Student Reception and include name, Homeroom and year. 
• Primary: drop off entries at the Library and include your name and year. 

Submission deadline: Monday 10 June, 3:30pm. 

Entries will be evaluated by the Art Department and the Principal. 

Terms and Conditions 

Artwork must reflect the theme of Christmas and align with the Catholic nature of this time. Entries must adhere to the College’s ethos and values. Only original artwork will be accepted. Each student can submit only one entry. Winners will be notified via email.

Good luck to all participants!

SPORT

ACC Cross-Country 

Congratulations to our 2024 ACC Cross-Country Team. A full list of our team is accessible on SEQTA notices. This team will compete in the ACC Cross-Country Carnival next Thursday 30 May.

ACC events always provide an incredible atmosphere. However, this day is especially unique as all 88 schools in the ACC come together to battle it out on the cross-country course. Our Cross-Country team has the exciting task of trying to take back the overall aggregate shield. Whatever happens… we are proud of our incredible team and know they will try their absolute best on the day!

Thank you to our Cross-Country coaches, Mr Steele Meade, Mr Campbell Tirant, Mr Darren Kowal and Miss Jessica Pillera, for all of their time and expertise in preparing our team.

Important Information 

• All members have permission now to purchase an interschool team jumper from the uniform shop.
• All team members are allowed to wear their interschool jumper for the week of the carnival, 27-31 May.
• All runners and reserves MUST attend the day to ensure eligibility for their interschool team jumper embroidery.
• All members have received a team dinner invitation for Monday 27 May. RSVP here.

Year 8 Winter Northern Associated Schools (NAS) 

Well done to all students who attended our NAS trials this week. It was so wonderful to see all the energy and enthusiasm. All teams have been posted in the College notices. All students are to look for their names. If their name is missing or doubled up, please email Miss Pillera and Mr Kowal ASAP. 

All students in NAS teams are required to attend four training sessions in the lead-up to the carnival on Tuesday 18 June. Training will not be compulsory for students selected in the 7-a-side Soccer or Social Netball; however, sessions will be available (same schedule as NAS) that students are strongly encouraged to attend to train with the squad.

Students are to meet in the Pavilion before training sessions, where attendance will be taken. We look forward to the next three weeks of training and can’t wait to see you working hard in the lead-up to the big day. 

Below is the NAS Training Schedule for the upcoming weeks, please take note of the dates below:

Eagles Cup 

Our team played away this week against Bob Hawke College. All team members are to be commended for their incredible performance resulting in a win. 

Thank you to Mr Bill Quartermaine for all his time and effort in coaching the team. We look forward to next week's home game against Shenton College. 

Jessica Pillera

Head of Sport