Catholic Action Program Students Lead the Charge for Social Justice: Advocating for Ethical Choices at SJRC

The Year 10 Catholic Action Program (CAP) at St. John's Regional College, led by Mr Farrelly and Ms Simon, is engaging students in a mission of advocacy and social justice through collaboration with ACRATH (Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans). Founded in 2005, ACRATH has made significant strides across Australia, working tirelessly to combat human trafficking and exploitation. Their efforts focus on educating communities, parishes, schools, and health sectors about the often-hidden presence of slavery in supply chains. Through this partnership, our CAP students gain valuable insights into the realities of forced labour and are inspired to take meaningful action within their community.

This year, our students have dedicated their efforts to raising awareness about slavery in the coffee supply chain. They recently presented a campaign to staff advocating for the shift to slavery-free coffee within our school, aligning with our values as a Catholic institution. Earlier in the year, the class delved into Catholic Social Teachings, learning principles of justice and human dignity. This campaign is a powerful embodiment of those teachings, as students educate the school community on issues of exploitation while advocating for responsible consumption. In 2025, our CAP students will broaden their focus to investigate and raise awareness about the issue of forced marriage, an ongoing injustice affecting many vulnerable individuals. Through their work, our students enrich their understanding of social justice and create a lasting impact that reflects the core values of St. John's. Congratulations to our CAP Team on their inspiring work.

St John's Regional College 2025 Awards Evening & Art and Technology Exhibition

We warmly invite all members of our St. John's community to join us in celebrating the achievements and excellence of our students at the 2025 Awards Evening on Thursday, 27 November. The event will be held in the Br. Leo Schollen Stadium, beginning at 7:00 pm. This is a special occasion to honour our students' growth, dedication, and talents across all areas of school life.

We welcome you to explore the St. John's Art & Technology Exhibition, featuring outstanding student work, starting at 6:30 pm. During the Awards Evening, we will also present the prestigious Br. Amedy Principal's Prize for Art.

We look forward to celebrating this memorable evening with you!

To reserve tickets, please visit our TryBooking page using the link below.

Step Up 2025

Our STEP-UP program commences on Tuesday, 20 November, after a student-free day on Monday, 19 November, to allow for staff preparation. Over the final three weeks of the school year, we expect all students to be in attendance as they move into the next year level and begin their course of studies for 2025. I thank all staff for providing a high-quality teaching program as we look forward to a great finish to the school year.

Retirement Announcement – Ms. Sonia McNally

I want to inform our school community that Ms. Sonia McNally, a valued St. John's Regional College member for 40 years, has announced her retirement. Since joining the College in 1984, Sonia has distinguished herself in roles such as Learning Area Leader and Columba House Leader, making a significant impact as both a teacher and leader.

A dedicated advocate for sports and teamwork, Sonia has inspired many students, fostering resilience and self-worth through activities from Lawn Bowls to Netball. Known for her direct approach, humour, and genuine care, she leaves a lasting legacy at St. John's. I thank Sonia for her many contributions and wish her all the best as she enters retirement and spends time with her children and grandchildren.

Student House Leaders 2025

I am pleased to announce and congratulate our newly appointed House Captains for 2025. Next year, these student leaders will play a vital role in representing the Student Voice within our community, contributing to a school environment where students feel encouraged to learn, grow, and build lasting friendships. Our student leaders and the teaching staff will help foster a supportive and dynamic atmosphere.

On Wednesday 27 November, we will formally introduce and celebrate all our student leaders at the Awards Evening. I look forward to working alongside them in the coming year, supporting their growth as servant leaders dedicated to enriching the life of our College in 2025.

House Captains

Aquilla House Aura Pen & Jayden Hang

Columba House Marnath Machar & Levi Hughes

Delphinus Dehara Madagama Gamage & Jacob Gonzaga

Leonis Quratullane Ali & Sean Pascual

Monoceros Juan Wani & Ashton Lay

Phoenix House Laura El Bazi & Meayjowk Opiew

Scholarship Winners 2025

I am pleased to announce the recipients of our General Excellence Scholarships for the 2025 school year. This year, we received many outstanding applications, and these students distinguished themselves through their academic achievements, respectful relationships with staff and peers, and active involvement in school life. Congratulations to each of them on this well-deserved recognition. They will be formally acknowledged at our 2025 Awards Evening in November.

YEAR 7

Aiden Abraham 7CO1

Shamira Francis 7CO2

Year 8

Avneet Saran 8PH1

Christa Biju 8DE2

Year 10

Jacob Wilberforce LE5

Newsletter

Issue 19 · 08 Nov 2024

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