YEAR 8
Building Strong Connections
Mrs Christina Borzi
Head of Year 8
YEAR 8 KEY INFORMATION: WEEK 4
Academic Achievement
Last week, we celebrated the academic success of our students at our Academic Assembly. Congratulations to all Year 8 students who received awards in recognition of their hard work, consistent effort, and outstanding results in Semester 1. These awards reflect not only academic achievement but also the commitment and perseverance demonstrated across a range of subjects. We are proud of their efforts and encourage all students to continue setting personal learning goals as we move through the term.
Online Interactions
There has been an increase in online interactions among students, and I would like to reinforce the importance of respectful digital communication. We encourage parents to have regular conversations with their children about respectful communication, not sharing or spreading rumours, and speaking up if they see something inappropriate. If concerns arise, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We are here to support both students and families in navigating the challenges of online interactions.
For additional support, the eSafety Commissioner website offers a range of helpful resources for parents, including conversation starters, safety guides, and advice on managing online behaviours.
To learn more, you can visit: www.esafety.gov.au/parents
Uniform Schedule: Week 4
WHOLE-OF-COLLEGE NOTICES:
Staffing Update from Principal Kerry Manders
It is with a great sense of sadness that I inform you of the resignation of Mr Justin Brennan, Assistant Principal - Senior Secondary. Justin is leaving us to lead the Cassowary Coast University Centre in Innisfail. We wish Justin well for this exciting new endeavour. We will farewell Justin on August 22.
We also farewell Jo and Luke Murphy this week as they head overseas to live and work. We wish them all the best for this exciting adventure.
Family Connect:
President: Marina Dunstan | Secretary: Wendy Watters | Treasurer: Kristina Cannon
Family Connect Presents - Dr Judith Locke: 'Helping your tween/teen become confident & capable in their schooling years and beyond' Thursday, 14 August I Book Now!
Tickets are free but essential!
To book, visit: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1441613
Family Connect Parents & Carers Survey To begin, please click the link below: https://forms.office.com/r/Yrsih0qwhV
St Mary's Day Mass & Morning Tea RSVP required by Friday, 8 August 2025: https://bit.ly/StMarysDayMass
NAIDOC Week Activities
Tuckshop - Red Day
Wednesday, 13 August (St Mary’s Day)
In celebration of St Mary’s Day, the Tuckshop will be holding a Red Day.
Students will be able to enjoy a special menu featuring occasional treat foods that are usually not available under the regular healthy eating guidelines.
School Fees and Levies for Term 3
School fees and levies for Term 3 were issued to all account holders via email on
Week 3 – Tuesday, 29 July.
The due date for full payment is August 12, 2025.
If you are the account holder and did not receive this email, please contact the Accounts Team: smw.accounts@cns.catholic.edu.au
SchoolTV - Sibling Relationships
Sibling relationships are often a child's first and longest-lasting social bonds, offering companionship, support, and chances to build skills like empathy and conflict resolution. Yet, these dynamics can be complex due to differences in age, temperament, and the need for parental attention—especially during times of stress.
As a parent or caregiver, you play a key role in shaping these relationships. Encouraging each child’s strengths and avoiding comparisons can reduce rivalry and build mutual respect.
By listening with empathy, promoting emotional regulation, and supporting individuality, you help create a home where siblings feel secure and valued. This edition of SchoolTV provides guidance to help foster strong, positive sibling connections that can last a lifetime.
Click on the following link for this Special Edition: https://smcc.qld.schooltv.me/newsletter/sibling-relationships-au
COLLEGE WEBSITE - For the latest information and guidance relevant to both staff and families, please refer regularly to our St Mary's Catholic College Website.
KEY DATES - Please note that all key dates are listed in the College Calendar. This can be accessed via the MyCE Parent App and synced with your personal calendar.
Ms Leah McBryde - Assistant Principal - Junior Secondary (Years 7 to 9)
On behalf of the College Leadership Team
College Leadership Team
