5 July 2024

A Message from the Principal

This week we celebrated NADIOC within our community. The theme for 2024 – “Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud”, honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

This theme was certainly fully realised in the college assembly presented by our Indigenous students. Students led all aspects of the ceremony including dance, song, literature and reflections. Each year we invite a guest speaker to address students and this year we were particularly delighted to welcome back 2023 College Captains Logan Culley and Baley Sorenson who spoke of their experiences learning about country and culture while at school and how they have taken this knowledge into their post school lives – Logan as a student at the University of Sydney and Baley as an Apprentice Electrician with Ausgrid.

With Logan & Baley’s permission I have shared below some extracts from their addresses to the school.

“To the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students of St Joseph’s. Be proud of who you are. You are the custodians of ancient traditions, the keepers of stories that span millennia. Your identity is a testament to the enduring spirit of your ancestors, and it is a source of immense pride and inspiration. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

Embrace your culture, your history and your unique perspective. Stand tall and let your voice be heard. You are the embodiment of your ancestors’ dreams and the promise of a brighter future. Your journey is a beacon of hope, not just for us mob, but for all of Australia. Do you, your families, us mob and the ancestors proud.”

Last year we instituted the Yalawa Art Award and it is delight and pride that we acknowledge Proshea Longbottom Year 11 as this year’s winner. Porshea provided the following artist statement to accompany her art work

“In this self-portrait, my aim was to explore the way in which significant aspects of my life connect to each other and intertwine. This artwork aims to express the significance of Aboriginal culture in every aspect of my life, while inviting the audience to experience the anxious thoughts and negative self-talk that occurs before a highly competitive race.

By incorporating symbols representative of my Indigenous heritage, my dedication to BMX racing and love of reading, I wanted to create a work that showcased some of what makes my life simultaneously so unique and chaotic.”

Congratulations Porschea – an inspiring work.

Thank you to all parents for your support throughout the term. I hope that you have a peaceful holiday and an opportunity to recover from any of the winter ills that have been so prevalent in the last few weeks.

Mrs Patricia Hales
College Principal

Principal’s Jottings

Just a reminder as per the last newsletter that I will be taking long service leave for the first two weeks of Term 2 and during this time Mrs Stokes & Mr Dart will jointly share leadership of the college. Mrs Hales.

Reminder: Respectful Relationship events

Recent media has highlighted issues and scandals, including pornography, misogyny, AI technology, the sharing of inappropriate material on social media, and others, in various schools - public, independent and Catholic - across Australia. We recognise there is a shared responsibility alongside parents and carers to be vigilant and educate students in this space and appropriately for their age and gender.

To support our school communities, Melinda Tankard Reist has been secured to speak with school staff and students in our Diocese about respectful relationships, this follows a successful recent event at Catherine McAuley Catholic College Medowie. Detailed information has been shared on Compass for the event for parents and carers, as well as the students.

Parents and Carers are invited to a special event hosted by St Joseph’s College on Thursday 25^th July 2024 commencing at 6pm in MacKillop Place. 

Melinda Tankard Reist is a renowned author, speaker, media commentator and advocate for young people. She will be discussing, Navigating a sexed-up world: How can we help our young people resist harmful messages from media and pop culture and aspire to respectful relationships. Dr Marshall Ballantine-Jones will be joining Melinda to present the male student sessions. He specialises in online sexualisation education, bringing over 25 years of experience working with children, youth, and families

Please RSVP via the QR code contained in the link

Staffing Update – New Staff commencing / returning in Term 3

We are delighted to welcome two new staff to St Joseph’s College who will commence in Term 3. Mr Michael Rankin has been appointed as a permanent Industrial Technology and TAS Mandatory teacher; Ms Brianna Callum has been appointed to as a Permanent Agriculture and Science Teacher.

Mrs Iglal Kodie will return next term and work in a job share replacing Ms Emily FitzGerald who is on leave for the remainder of the year.

Pupil Free Dates 2024

All Catholic Secondary Schools in Maitland Newcastle Diocese are entitled to 7 pupil free days each year for staff to complete required training and professional learning. This year St Joseph’s will have 8 pupil free days as we are in the 6^th year of our Child Protection Training.

• Term 1 – Monday & Tuesday 30^th & 31^st January and Tuesday 2^nd April
• Term 2 – Monday 29^th April
• Term 3 – Monday 22^nd July
• Term 4 – Monday 14^th October, Thursday 19^th December & Friday 20^th December

IMPORTANT - 2024 Calendar Dates 

Ministry Musings

Year 10 Retreat

From Tuesday 11^th June to Wednesday 12^th June, Year 10 students had an unforgettable experience at their retreat held at The Collaroy Retreat Centre and Benedict XVI Retreat Centre. This retreat offered time away from the ordinary routines of life to reflect on themselves, their relationships, and their connection with God. Inspired by the tradition of our Josephite Charism, the theme of "True Grit" was our theme for the retreat, emphasising courage and strength of character.

The retreat was filled with engaging and challenging activities that highlighted the students' perseverance and passion. They engaged in a range of activities, including group discussions, personal reflections, presentations, fun games and icebreakers, physical activities, prayer and liturgies, creating lasting memories with their peers.

The activities were designed to nurture spirituality and align with Josephite values: living simply, being present, trusting in God's will, practicing compassion, and serving others. Students built strong friendships, deepened their faith, and explored how to apply these insights into their everyday lives.

We are grateful for the enthusiastic participation of our students and the dedicated guidance of our staff.

Year 11 Formation Day

On Monday 24^th June, Year 11 students gathered at Tocal Agricultural College for Formation Day, based on the theme of “Faith”. The day was an incredible opportunity for students to deepen their trust in God and grow as a community unified in their faith in each other and Christ.

During the formation day, students participated in a range of activities designed to explore faith from both Catholic and personal viewpoints. They connected their faith to actions that uphold human dignity and foster community and emphasised the role of faith in their relationships with God and others. The day was highly enjoyable, with students forming deeper friendships, creating lasting memories, and experiencing profound personal growth.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the teachers and Mrs. Rebecca Piefke from St. Joseph’s East Maitland for their invaluable support and contribution to the success of the day.

Sunday’s Gospel – Mark 5: 21-24. 35-43

When Jesus had crossed in the boat to the other side, a large crowd gathered round him and he stayed by the lakeside. Then one of the synagogue officials came up, Jairus by name, and seeing him, fell at his feet and pleaded with him earnestly, saying, ‘My little daughter is desperately sick. Do come and lay your hands on her to make her better and save her life.’ Jesus went with him and a large crowd followed him; they were pressing all round him.

Some people arrived from the house of the synagogue official to say, ‘Your daughter is dead: why put the Master to any further trouble?’ But Jesus had overheard this remark of theirs and he said to the official, ‘Do not be afraid; only have faith.’ And he allowed no one to go with him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. So they came to the official’s house and Jesus noticed all the commotion, with people weeping and wailing unrestrainedly. He went in and said to them, ‘Why all this commotion and crying? The child is not dead, but asleep.’ But they laughed at him. So he turned them all out and, taking with him the child’s father and mother and his own companions, he went into the place where the child lay. And taking the child by the hand he said to her, ‘Talitha, kum!’ which means, ‘little girl, I tell you to get up.’ The little girl got up at once and began to walk about, for she was twelve years old. At this they were overcome with astonishment, and he ordered them strictly not to let anyone know about it, and told them to give her something to eat.

Reflection:

This week’s gospel passage presents two miracle accounts, one, in effect, ‘interrupting’ or being framed by the other. Jesus is approached by the synagogue official, Jairus, to come and heal his dying daughter. In the milling and surging crowd, Jesus suddenly becomes aware of being touched by someone. The story of the woman with a haemorrhage is a story of social and religious isolation as much as it is a story of illness and pain. Because of the Jewish prohibitions against blood, the woman would have been regarded as permanently impure and unclean. She would have been unable to engage in any worship; she could not touch another person without also making them unclean; she was effectively outcast for the 12 years of her illness. She knew it would be forbidden for her to touch Jesus openly but took her chances of being unobserved in the crowd – she risked all on the belief that even touching Jesus’ cloak might heal her. Jesus immediately stopped and drew attention to the woman. By doing so he made it clear to her that it was her faith that had healed her (a feature of healing stories in the Gospel of Mark). His actions also made it clear to the crowd that she was now healed and should not be shunned any longer; she was publicly declared fit to re-enter society and religious participation. After 12 years of virtual non-existence, the woman was now able to begin her life again. The delay, however, meant that Jairus’ daughter was dead by the time Jesus arrived. Undeterred, Jesus performs another miracle and raises the girl from death. The girl was 12 years old – the same 12 years the woman suffered with a haemorrhage – and now she too was able to begin her life again. There is a neatness and a completeness about the two stories.

Gospel Focus – A lesson in faith

Although Jairus obviously believed that Jesus might be able to do something to help heal his daughter, once news came that she had died he needed a strong reminder from Jesus to not be afraid and to have faith. Was it the example of the woman’s faith in Jesus that gave Jairus the strength to continue to believe? When they arrive at the house the mourners laugh at Jesus and are consequently excluded from witnessing the miraculous raising. Since they don’t have faith, they are not given the opportunity to witness faith in action.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, in moments of despair and disbelief, teach us to trust in your healing power and to persevere in faith, even amidst doubt and mourning. May we learn from the woman’s courage and belief in your ability to restore and heal. Grant us the strength to overcome fear and to witness your miracles with hearts open to your divine mercy. Amen.

God Bless,

Mr Taylor Zahra
Leader of College Ministry

From the Assistant Principals....

Farewell Mr Hales

On Tuesday 2^nd July, St Joseph’s farewelled a very valued staff member, Mr Frank Hales.  Mr Hales starting teaching at St Joseph’s in 1983 as a Geography teacher working under the leadership of Sr Anita Conroy followed by Sr Lauretta Baker.  Throughout the years, Mr Hales would make a significant connection to the school, returning in 2020 as an Aboriginal Education Teacher. Here he would work with staff and students in the Yalawa Centre to mentor and support indigenous students. 

Recently, 2023 College Captain Logan Culley addressed the students at our NAIDOC Assembly. He celebrated the impact Mr Hales had on his own experience, saying “You have encouraged me to keep the fire burning that is my identity as an Aboriginal man. I am truly grateful for the continuous hard work you put in for Josephite students because without your drive, passion in being Indigenous, I would not be where I am today – sharing my story and educating those around me about the richness of our culture and the importance of our history. We have been truly blessed by your presence as a mentor at the Yalawa Centre and I know your legacy and words of wisdom will forever stain the fabric that is the school. You are a living example of our ancestors and their strength and mission and for that I so grateful. Thanks for all of you have for us mob here at St Joseph’s.”

Mr Hales has been a dedicated, valued and generous staff member teaching 1000’s of students throughout his career in Catholic Education. We have been so richly blessed to have worked alongside him and our student’s lives have been enriched by his presence. We wish you well Mr Hales and thank you.

Uniform Policy Update

A reminder to parents and students that we will introduce an updated uniform policy in Semester Two 2024. The policy does not include any new uniform items, but does include some updates in relation to jewellery and grooming.

Parents are reminded that if students are out of uniform, they are to go to the LOWE Office and collect a slip. There is a process in place for students who do not meet College expectations in relation to uniform and an opportunity to reflect on and uphold these standards.

We are very proud of our community and encourage students to continue to wear their uniform with pride.  They do such a great job!

Semester Reporting

All students and families have now received their Academic Reporting for Semester 1. We encourage students and parents to review the report and reflect on their learning in Semester One. We would also like to acknowledge the support of Parent Teacher Student Conferences. This is such a valuable opportunity to meet with families and celebrate a semester’s work.  This year has been our most attended interviews, with over 1300 interviews taking place. We thank parents for being in partnership with our students.  As the semester draws to a close, it is a time to recognise the outstanding achieve of our students in their range of pursuits and we will celebrate these achievements on 2^nd August with the Semester One Awards Ceremony.

Congratulations to our young students on continuing to learn!

Year 8 

The year 9 2025 Subject Selection evening will occur on Monday 29^th July. This is an opportunity for parents and students to speak with teachers about the subjects on offer for 2025. Students study two additional courses throughout years 9 and 10 and these will be chosen after the information evening. Some of these subjects are quite popular so students will need to choose quickly to have the best opportunity of receiving their choice of subject. A Subject Handbook will be published prior to the event for students and parents to learn about the course requirements.

Year 11 – Term 3 Week 1

As a group of students in Year 11 will be attending the Ski Week experience, a modified program will be offered to students who remain at school. This week will be a blend of learning workshops and community events. A note will be circulated on Compass to students and parents to outline this experience.

Year 12 Trial Exams

Students will have received the Trial HSC Exam Timetable, which will be held at St. Joseph's College during weeks three and four next term. I would like to encourage all students to use the next few weeks wisely by engaging in active revision of content. Active study and revision is more than sitting quietly reading over notes. It is engaging multiple parts of your brains to develop strong neural pathways to information. Active Revision could include;

• Reading over course work and making study notes (highlight main points and then re-write this, including dates, diagrams, quotes and theorems)
• Complete past papers or sections there of during timed exam conditions
• Engage in study groups where you discuss the content with friends
• Using quizlet.com or asking someone to test you on the information.

Change of Assessment Dates

Mr Paul Dart  & Mrs Elizabeth Stokes
Assistant Principals

From the Counsellor’s Desk

Ms Caitlin French & Ms Julia Preistley
St Joseph’s Professional Officers

Wellbeing

GREAT TERM

As we approach the end of another successful term, we would like to take a moment to reflect on the achievements and growth of our wonderful students. It is with great pride that we congratulate each and every one of them for their dedication, hard work, and positive attitude throughout the term. Your commitment to learning and personal development has been truly inspiring.

Amidst the academic accomplishments, we also want to emphasise the importance of looking after friends and family. As we navigate through these challenging times, it is crucial to prioritise the well-being of our loved ones. A simple act of kindness, a friendly smile, or lending a listening ear can make a significant difference in someone’s day. Let us continue to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and cared for.

As we head into the upcoming break, we encourage all families to stay safe take some time to recharge and reconnect with loved ones. Whether it’s exploring the beautiful natural wonders of our community or enjoying quality time at home.

The Power of Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a simple yet powerful practice that can help reduce stress and improve concentration. Here are a few tips to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:

1. Start Your Day with Mindfulness: Take a few minutes each morning to sit quietly and focus on your breath. This can set a positive tone for the rest of your day.
2. Mindful Eating: Pay attention to the taste, texture, and smell of your food. Eating mindfully can improve your digestion and help you appreciate your meals more.
3. Mindful Breaks: Throughout the day, take short breaks to breathe deeply and check in with yourself. This can help you stay calm and focused.

Physical Wellbeing: Stay Active, Stay Healthy

Physical activity is crucial for maintaining good health. Here are some fun ways to stay active during the summer:

1. Outdoor Adventures: Explore local parks, hiking trails, or beaches. Fresh air and nature can do wonders for your physical and mental health.
2. Join a Sports Team: Many community centers and clubs offer community sports. Joining a team can help you stay fit and make new friends.
3. Home Workouts: If you prefer staying indoors, there are plenty of online resources for home workouts. Find a routine that suits you and stick to it.

Emotional Wellbeing: It's Okay to Ask for Help

Maintaining emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical health. Here are some tips to keep your emotional health in check:

1. Talk It Out: If you're feeling overwhelmed or anxious, talk to someone you trust. Sharing your feelings can provide relief and new perspectives.
2. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself, especially during tough times. Treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend.
3. Seek Professional Help: If you find it challenging to manage your emotions, don't hesitate to seek help from a counselor or mental health professional.

Counselling and support services:

Kids Helpline       -     1800 55 1800     -     kidshelpline.com.au

Headspace           -     1800 650 890     -     headspace.org.au

Qlife                     -      1800 184 527    -     qlife.org.au

13YARN                -      13 92 76           -     13yarn.org.au

Stay Connected

For more tips and resources on wellbeing, follow us on our social media platforms and visit our school websites. Whilst on social media, please stay safe and follow eSafety.gov.au guidelines to help detect and stamp out cyberbullying. Let's work together to create a supportive and healthy community!

School Holiday activities by our local government councils:

https://www.mymaitland.com.au/school-holidays/

https://www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/Things-to-do/Events/2024-Winter-School-Holiday-Program

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/cc/school-holiday-activities-1211169

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/d/australia--singleton/school-holidays/

https://www.singleton.nsw.gov.au/Live/Residents/Youth-Venue

Mr Chris Johns, Miss Alison Lynch, Ms Alberta Kauter, and Mrs Abbie Marston
Leaders of Learning-Wellbeing

Curriculum News (KLA’s)

Agriculture and Vet Primary Industries

Students from Agriculture, VET Primary Industries and Flexi recently attended an education day put on by the Singleton Beef & Land Management Association. Students learnt about beef cattle structure, Identification, judging, grain and rural crime prevention. Students had a wonderful day and gained a huge amount of knowledge from a range of experts.

Careers – Opportunities & Notices

Mrs Vikki Jordan
Careers Advisor
vikki.jordan@mn.catholic.edu.au

Yalawa Yarnings

Anikanya (Hello)!

Deadly Achievements

Congratulations to Portia Longbottom in year 11 for her recent success at a State BMX tournament. Portia placed 2^nd in her age group against individuals from all over the state which is a fantastic effort.

Recent Events

Approximately 22 students attended the Hunter Academy ATSI Talent ID Day at Maitland Federation Centre on 19^th June. St Joseph’s had students ranging from year 7 to 10 and had the largest cohort of students attending compared to all other schools at the event. The day involves students participating in fitness testing followed by round robin sports which students can potentially be scouted for to be part of the Hunter Academy’s Talent Program.

NAIDOC Week

This week we celebrated NAIDOC week with several events including whole school assembly, Indigenous all stars vs Students Leaders in oztag as well as a Cultural netball Day. Due to the cut off times for the newsletter, we have decided to do a full recap of the week next term.

Upcoming Events

YAKKA Career Program

Next term several Year 10 students will complete a 6-week Careers Program run by Yakka. The program is free for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students and will teach the students vital skills in writing resumes, finding Apprenticeships as well as employability tips.

Community Events

Student Support

If there are any issues that we can support students with or that you think that we need to be aware of please do not hesitate to contact one of us.

If your student is also doing amazing things in the community, please let us know so we can give them a shout out in the ‘Yalawa Yarnings.’

Mrs Hannah Allen, Ms Anabel Holle and Mr Thomas Germon
Aboriginal Education Teachers

Message from the Finance Office

2024 School fee account can be viewed at any time through Compass and updated statements are emailed at the beginning of each month, please check your emails and also your junk emails.  Families who have a nil balance will not receive a statement. 

Thank you to the families who indicated a lump sum payment and have now paid. Please contact finance to discuss if needed as this is now overdue.

It is important to pay weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments regularly which are due in full by 30/11/24, thank you to the families who continue with these regular payments. 

If you have any concerns in meeting the 30/11/24 due date please contact me on 0249 307 291 or email finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au.

Bpay is our preferred method of payment, however payment can also be made via Credit Card, Cash, Cheque and Centrepay.

Health Care Card and Pension Card Holders - 2024 Tuition Fee Discount

If you are a current holder of an Australian Government Health Care Card/Pension card you may be entitled to a discount on your school fees, please complete the attached forms and return with a copy of your card to finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle offer a lower tuition fee to ‘means tested’ low income families such as Health Care and Pension Card holders. This rate is 50% of the Diocesan Tuition Fee full rate for each child

Mrs Cathy Duff
Finance Officer

General News

Canteen News

Lunch Orders

Lunch Orders are still available through the QKR app. Orders made via QKR need to be placed by 8.15am.

Canteen Menu

Qkr! – Getting Started

Mrs Tania Cullity
Food Operations Manager

Contact us (Email addresses)

In order to keep our records up to date:

FOR STUDENT SERVICES – Please email studentservices@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au 

FOR FINANCE – Please email finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

ALL OTHER MATTERS (other than Finance) - please use the email admin@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

Alinta Uniform Shop

Shop Opening Hours

Our opening hours have changed, please see new hours below:

Blazers

Due to the lead time associated with the delivery of blazers for our senior students we are asking if parents/carers could place their orders as soon as possible. This will alleviate any delays as the weather gets cooler.