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St John Paul College Coffs Harbour

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421 Hogbin Drive
Coffs Harbour NSW 2450
Subscribe: https://www.cofhslism.catholic.edu.au/subscribe

Email: sjpccoffs@lism.catholic.edu.au
Phone: 02 6653 3155

St John Paul College Coffs Harbour

421 Hogbin Drive
Coffs Harbour NSW 2450

Phone: 02 6653 3155

  • Visit our Website
  • Newsletter Archive
  • School Absence
  • College Calendar
  • Like us on Facebook
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  • Contact Us

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Upcoming Events

26 May
Week A

26 May
Yr 9 & 10 Sport Selections

27 May
Bill Turner Cup Rd 3

27 May
National Reconciliation Week

27 May 2025 - 03 Jun 2025

27 May
Parent Representative Body Meeting 7:00pm - Library

28 May
Choir Eisteddfod Coffs Harbour Yr 7- Yr 12 students

28 May
Futsul 13-14 - Coffs Harbour

28 May
Proclaim Lismore Yr 6 GLOW Gathering

29 May
Futsul 15-16 - Coffs Harbour

29 May
Country Cup League 7-12 - Grafton

30 May
YR 12 Trivia Night

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

2 Jun
Week B

2 Jun
Yr 7 2026 Interviews commence

3 Jun
Australia's Biggest Morning Tea

3 Jun
Bill Turner Trophy Round 3

3 Jun
Yr 11 Biological Diversity Day

3 Jun
Liturgy - SJPC Chapel 7C & 7D

1:35 PM - 3:20 PM

4 Jun
Diocesan Junior Football

5 Jun
Rugby League Cochrane Cup

5 Jun
Rugby League NSW CCC Cup (Opens)

5 Jun
Diosesan Cross Country Woolgoolga

5 Jun
Yr 10 Careers Expo

9 Jun
Week A

9 Jun
Public Holiday - Kings Birthday

10 Jun
Staff Professional Learning Day - No students attend this day

11 Jun
AFL Junior Schools Cup

12 Jun
Diocesan Open Football

13 Jun
Fast 5 Netball - Port Macquarie

16 Jun
Week B

16 Jun
CCC Open Basketball - Penrith

16 Jun 2025 - 18 Jun 2025

17 Jun
Yr 10 Vaccinations Meningococcal & Catch Ups

17 Jun
Mass & Reconciliation SJPC Chapel 7E & 7F

1:35 PM - 3:20 PM

18 Jun
Kawalazi

18 Jun 2025 - 04 Jul 2025

18 Jun
Yr 10 Pastoral Day

18 Jun
Kawalazi Assembly

8:55 AM - 9:30 AM

19 Jun
Yr 8 Pastoral Day

19 Jun
Yr12 Senior Retreat Yarrahapinni

19 Jun 2025 - 20 Jun 2025

23 Jun
Week A

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10 May 2024 - Newsletter (Vol 41 No 6)

  • Principal's Message
  • Assistant Principal - Mission
  • Tell Them From Me - Parent Survey
  • Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
  • Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
  • School Evangelisation
  • Leaders of Student Wellbeing
  • Curriculum Matters
  • Literacy Matters
  • Visual Arts
  • Sports Corner
  • Languages
  • Mothers Day Breakfast
  • Office News
  • School Traffic Management
  • Catholic Schools Parent Assembly - Conference
  • 2024 Annual Year 7 Men and Boys Camp Out - new date
  • 2024 Kawalazi Development Project

Principal's Message

Dear Parents

I am excited to share the news that the College has entered into Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with the Coffs Harbour Musical Society and the Arts National Coffs Coast group to foster collaboration and create unique opportunities for our music and art students. Both these groups have now established SJPC as their base for lectures and workshops and, as a result our senior students and staff from these departments will have access to international performers and lecturers in both fields.

These new partnerships mark a significant step in our commitment to providing learning experiences and opportunities beyond the formal classroom environments. It is my genuine hope that at this early stage and as we move forward, the following outcomes may be achieved:

Access to disciplinary specific workshops: Through workshops with visiting artists, experts and performers, students will have the chance to explore and enhance their technical skills and knowledge and also be encouraged them to think creatively and experiment with different mediums.

Performance Opportunities and feedback: students will have the opportunities with musicians and artists to engage in discussions and Q & A’s to further develop their understanding about particular genres and styles that will assist in their studies and HSC preparation.

Guest Lectures and Demonstrations: Renowned artists and musicians will be invited to conduct guest lectures and demonstrations, offering valuable insights and mentorship to our students. These interactions will inspire and motivate them to pursue their artistic passions with dedication and enthusiasm.

As parents, I know that your support and encouragement play a crucial role in nurturing your child’s artistic aspirations and I invite you to engage with your child about these exciting opportunities.

I am confident that this collaboration will not only enhance your child’s skills and knowledge but also foster a sense of creativity, collaboration, and passion that will benefit them in all aspects of their lives.

More details about the offerings by these two groups can be found on their respective websites, Coffs Music Society and ArtsNational Coffs Coast.

Coffs Harbour Music Society 2024
ArtsNational Coffs Coast 2024

God bless

 

Carniato, Michael
Michael Carniato
Principal

Assistant Principal - Mission

Staff Spirituality Retreat Day 2024

Last Monday marked the beginning of the new term for our staff with a full-day spirituality retreat. Held in the peaceful surroundings of the Sawtell Parish Church and grounds, the retreat was facilitated by the esteemed Ignatian Spirituality Facilitator, Mr. Marty Scroope supported by insightful video contributions from Bishop Greg Homeming. Centered around the theme of rest, the day provided a refreshing pause from the bustling routines of life, inviting our staff to embrace simplicity and openness to the reflective journey ahead. This year’s theme followed on quite deliberately from 2023 when we were asked to consider our relationship with work. As Bishop Greg pointed out, work and rest are deeply intertwined, integral parts of our lives. 

Emphasizing personal encounters, the retreat day fostered an atmosphere of unhurried self reflection, encouraging each of us to slow down, engage in silence, and deepen our awareness of the holy spirit in our lives. Embracing the gift of rest not only rejuvenates our spirits but also enriches our relationships and enhances our capacity for compassion and service. To incorporate rest into our busy lives, let's prioritize moments of solitude and disconnect from distractions so that we may be made more aware of the spirit working within us.

Staff Spirituality 29.4 (3)Staff Spirituality 29.4 (2)Staff Spirituality 29.4 (4)Staff Spirituality 29.4 (1)

Prayer

Lord, help us to rest in You today;
to find You flowing in our hearts;
to recognise You in our solitude,
in the silence and in the lives of others.
We ask these things in your name
Amen

Gennat, Leanne
Leanne Gennat
Assistant Principal - Mission

Tell Them From Me - Parent Survey

Next week we will be inviting students, teachers and parents to provide feedback on their experience of our school using an online survey. The surveys are an important part of our whole school evaluation and planning process.

We would like to invite you to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey. As we value the role of parents and carers within our school community we would greatly appreciate your feedback. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at St John Paul College 

The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. You are able to access the parent survey on your computer or mobile device by using the URL below:

http://tellthemfromme.com/2024sjpc

Your Voice Matters Tell Them from Me Survey 2024

Gennat, Leanne
Leanne Gennat
Assistant Principal - Mission

Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care

In recent weeks, I have had the very rewarding experience of witnessing our school leaders in action. Not only have they fulfilled their leadership responsibilities but have done so with outstanding maturity and as a College we are extremely proud of them. 

On ANZAC day Riley and Flynn represented SJPC and delivered the address at the Dawn and Community Service in Sawtell. Will and Koko and Connor and Cleo layed wreaths at Coffs Harbour and Woolgoolga respectfully. Later, our College leaders marched alongside many other College students in all three marches.

Woolgoolga ANZAC march (1)2024 ANZAC march Coffs Harbour pic 92024 ANZAC march Sawtell pic 72024 ANZAC march Coffs Harbour pic 3Woolgoolga ANZAC march (3)2024 ANZAC march Coffs Harbour2024 ANZAC march Coffs Harbour pic 8ANZAC March 2024 Sawtell 42024 ANZAC march Sawtell pic 4 (1)2024 ANZAC march Sawtell pic 4 (2)2024 ANZAC march Coffs Harbour pic 102024 ANZAC march Coffs Harbour pic 6Woolgoolga ANZAC march (2)

On Wednesday we experienced a very moving ANZAC assembly where our leaders again had an opportunity to display their leadership skills. We were also fortunate to have Wing Commander Andre Holmes from the class of 2004 address this assembly. Andre serves in the Royal Australian Air Force specialising in logistics. He emphasised the importance of his time at SJPC and the support it offered him. This assembly also gave Lucas Burridge the opportunity to share his talents with the school community when he performed the National Anthem.

ANZAC Assembly (19)ANZAC Assembly (6)ANZAC Assembly (21)ANZAC Assembly (9)ANZAC Assembly (20)ANZAC Assembly (17)ANZAC Assembly (22)ANZAC Assembly (5)ANZAC Assembly (15)ANZAC Assembly (14)ANZAC Assembly (4)ANZAC Assembly (1)ANZAC Assembly (7)ANZAC Assembly (11)ANZAC Assembly (16)ANZAC Assembly (12)ANZAC Assembly (10)ANZAC Assembly (8)ANZAC Assembly (23)ANZAC Assembly (13)ANZAC Assembly (24)ANZAC Assembly (3)ANZAC Assembly (18)ANZAC Assembly (2)

I’d also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank the students for their efforts as our Year 10 Peer Mentors who completed their work as part of the Year 7 Transition to SJPC at the end of term one. They gave of their time and experience to assist the newest members of the College. It is hoped that the relationships formed during this time will be long lasting.

These are great examples of the benefits that are gained from young people putting themselves forward for leadership roles at the College. 

The Pastoral topic for the term is Relationships. It is vital that everyone plays their role in the formation of sound relationships. Attached is a message I plan on sharing with the College at our next  Assembly.

As we begin another term, please remind your child of the importance of their responsibility to adhere to school policy with regard to school uniform, in particular shoes, hair and jewellery. Our school uniform should be worn with pride.

Relationships - College Assembly

Until next time:

To_be_kind_is_more_important.png



Stubbs, Michael
Michael Stubbs
Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care

Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

College Merit System - Recognising positive behaviour

Currently students can see on their Compass dashboard a chronicle summary, which may have merit awards listed. As each teacher gives a class award this accumulates as a positive chronicle entry, a base form of affirmation. 

This merit system aims to recognise and acknowledge positive behaviour of students in a class setting and demonstrate a high level of engagement in their learning. 

Since the start of this year, all class awards given to students have been accumulating to add up to greater levels of recognition. 

Students sometimes ask why teachers want to acknowledge class awards on a bigger scale. 

The reason is a little more detailed than a simple affirmation process. In my role of leading Learning and Teaching in the College, I want to see a College that has students engaged in their learning. A merit system encourages active participation in classes, it promotes responsibility and accountability amongst students; it fosters a positive learning environment and recognises individual efforts and progress. To put it simply, I want to reward that silent majority who do the right thing in classes and empower them to have a positive effect on our learning culture at SJPC. 

Compass now recognises levels of merit based on the accumulation of class awards. The following graphic outlines this in simple terms:

SJPC Merit Award Systyem
  • 3 Class awards = Merit Award acknowledged on Compass
  • 2 Merit Awards = College Commendation, presented by LOSWs at Assemblies 
  • 3 College Commendations = Distinction Award, presented by APs at Assemblies 
  • 3 Distinction Awards = Award of Honour, presented by Principal at College Assembly. 

The College Commendation, Distinction Award and Award of Honour will be physical awards that can be collected, used in CVs, job applications or even university scholarships. 

As shown in the graphic, The Award of Honour represents 54 Class Awards that can be accumulated over several school terms or years and it is possible to achieve more than one of these awards during a student’s time at SJPC. 

Our College newsletter will begin to run tallies of who in each Year Level receives awards each fortnight and at what level - so as to recognise student efforts not just at assemblies but also within our Community throughout the year. 

All students need to do from now on is to continue to engage as individuals in their learning and keep being recognised by their teachers to amass more class awards on Compass. 

I look forward to seeing the College Commendations, presenting Distinction Awards and hopefully witnessing Mr Carniato bestowing our first Awards of Honour on this stage in the not too distant future. 

Study Skills

Learn more about the ‘managing stress’ resources through the units on www.studyskillshandbook.com.au . Our College access details are:

School’s Username – stjohnpaul

School’s password – 89success

In addition, our subscription to Elevate Education may assist in this area.

Elevate

This online platform contains resources and useful study tips that all SJPC students will find effective. We encourage them to access this Student Portal and try some of the strategies. Students have the password to this site. The password can also be found on the Curriculum Noticeboard.

AMDG

Furey, James
James Furey
Assistant Principal
Learning and Teaching

School Evangelisation

"Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you."Luke 1: 28

Mary

The month of May is traditionally dedicated to Mary, Mother of God.

May month of Blessed Virgin Mary

“In both Greek and Roman culture May was connected with the beginning of new life. This ancient belief led to May being associated with the motherhood of Mother Earth and thus to motherhood in general. It is for this reason that Mother’s Day is celebrated in May in many countries. This connection between May and motherhood led Christians to adopt May as the month of our Lady, the Mother of God and our Mother. She brought life into the world by giving birth to her Son, Jesus, who brought about a new spring.” (The Church of St Matthew)

What a wonderful role model and such a beautiful way to frame Mary and Mother's Day. Let's try to honour Mary, particularly throughout the month of May through prayer and quiet celebration of her contribution to our church.

And a very happy Mother's Day to all mothers, mother figures and for those who care and nurture others.

Mary

The Ascension of the Lord

“Jesus was lifted up while they looked on”

(Acts 1)

This week we celebrate Jesus’ Ascension into heaven and we are reminded of how the physical Jesus becomes the Spirit of Christ, the heart of the Church. 

"Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit"  (Matthew 28:18-20)

Jesus lifted up

Student Discipleship Opportnities

There are some exciting opportunities happening for our students in the coming months, including the newly announced Street Retreat 2024, open to Year 11 students, and held in Brisbane 27- 30 June. There is already a keen interest in this event and so it's important that students contact Mrs Sawtell with their expression of interest. There is a limit of six students, as allocated from the DLCS (previously CSO), and successful applicants will be notified before the cut-off date in Week 4. Further details are attached. 

Tuesday Mass in the Chapel

A reminder that all parents are more than welcome to attend SJPC Chapel Mass held Tuesdays at 9.10 am. We have a rotating roster of classes attending this Mass throughout each term and the invitation is an opportunity to spend some time with God and to receive the Eucharist. 

SJPC Mass All Welcome

Parish News

    • Playgroup 9am Tuesday, Curran Centre
    • Women’s Bible Sharing- Tuesday, the Curran Centre
    • Men’s prayer group -Wednesday, Curran Centre
    • Pentecost Multicultural Mass will be held at 9am Sunday, 19 May at St Augustine’s Church followed by a multicultural brunch at the Curran Centre. As in previous years, please dress in traditional clothes from your country of origin and feel free to bring a plate of cultural delicacies to share.
    • Devotions in the Church
      • St Augustine’s Church: Rosary 2:30 pm Wednesdays
      • Divine Mercy after 9:15 am Friday Mass
      • Rosary after 9am Saturday Mass
      • Rosary 8:30am Sunday, 5pm Sunday

Please contact the Parish Office for further details on 66510000

Your hearts will be full of joy that no-one will take from you  John 16:20-23

Street Retreat

JSAW STREET RETREAT NEWSLETTER 2024
JSAW STREET RETREAT NEWSLETTER 2024 1.07 MB

Sawtell, Janine
Janine Sawtell
Leader of School Evangelisation

Leaders of Student Wellbeing

Year 7

MAKE BULLYING HISTORY

Last Wednesday morning, Year 7 attended the Make Bullying History pastoral workshop with Brett Murray. Brett is an author, producer and activist, who facilitates a bullying education and prevention charity: Safeheart Foundation. During the workshop, Brett unpacked what bullying is, what it is not, why people do it, and how to stop it. He unpacked bullying behaviour and identified bullying behaviour specifically both in the physical sphere and the cyber sphere. The session then explored the 'why' behind the 'what', exploring issues about self-esteem and self-worth. Other issues covered included the dangerous implications that bullying behaviour has on both victims and perpetrators. Brett positively reinforced self-esteem for all present, including victims, perpetrators, and bystanders. The session then moved into how the Year 7 group and school community could put into practice practical steps to help eradicate bullying culture and focus on striving for excellence in dream and goal setting, replacing the negative with the positive paradigm.

Please take the time to discuss this important matter with your child.

Year 7 Parent Testimonial 

Thanks so much! My daughter absolutely loved it. What an incredible and inspiring guy. She showed me a video about him.  She took a lot from it so thank you so much for offering it to the kids.  I’m so impressed with SJPC! Thanks again, Linda

Make Bullying History Year 7 (5)Make Bullying History Year 7 (8)Make Bullying History Year 7 (9)Make Bullying History Year 7 (4)Make Bullying History Year 7 (7)Make Bullying History Year 7 (3)Make Bullying History Year 7 (1)Make Bullying History Year 7 (2)Make Bullying History Year 7 (6)

Munokoa, Ngahine
Ngahine Munokoa
Acting Year 7 Leader of Student Wellbeing

Year 8

It’s been a great start to the term and Year 8 students have hit the ground running with many students taking part in Bill Turner Football matches last week! On Friday in the heavy rain several Year 8 boys took part in the 2nd round of the Bill Turner Cup defeating Christian Community School 4-0. On Monday we had several Year 8 girls take part in the 2nd round of the Bill Turner Trophy defeating Toormina High school 6-1. Congratulations to all students involved and good luck in round 3.

Bill Turner Cup Team (1)
Bill Turner Cup Boys
Bill Turner TrophyBill Turner Trophy Girls

On Tuesday 8A attended Mass and Reconciliation followed by morning tea. All students participated with reverence and maturity and most took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Penance/Reconciliation. I would personally like to thank them for their outstanding behaviour and remind them and the rest of Year 8 that they have set the benchmark for what we would expect from the remaining Year 8 Catholic Studies classes. I would especially like to thank the parents and grandparents who came along to Mass and assisted with the morning tea.

8A Mass and Reconciliation 

Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (3)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (6)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (5)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (9)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (10)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (1)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (2)Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (4) 1Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (8) 1Year 8 Mass Reconcilation (7)

8A Welcome Morning Tea

Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (5)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (11)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (9)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (12)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (4)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (2)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (3)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (15)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (1)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (13)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (14)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (6)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (7)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (8)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (10)Year 8A Welcome mass 7.5 (16)

Our best all rounders for the past two weeks were Matthew Pope for showing excellent creativity in technology with Ms Haley and Louis Burbridge for excellent work on his parable assignment in Mr Furey’s class. Congratulations boys you’ve both won a $5 Canteen voucher!

Pope, Matthew

Matthew Pope

Burbridge, Louis

Louis Burbridge

Finally, in the last newsletter I asked a couple of questions for the chance to win a $5 canteen voucher and only one student was able to answer correctly, that being Victoria Chojnowski. Congratulations on winning the voucher Victoria!

Chojnowski, Victoria
Victoria Chojnowski

Here is the question challenge to win a $5 canteen voucher for this week’s newsletter. The first student to answer both questions correctly wins the prize. Good Luck!

Q1 If you’re a learner what is your responsibility? 

and secondly 

Q2 What date does the “Tell Them From Me” parent survey close?

 

Sultana, Mark
Mark Sultana
Year 8 Leader of Student Wellbeing

Curriculum Matters

elevate

Last term, Elevate Education ran four online sessions that were well attended. These live sessions are designed to help keep parents up to date with the study skills strategies students are being taught in class, as well as offer insights into how parents can best support learning at home. Just some of the data about these Term 1 seminars appears below.

Resource Downloads
Parent Feedback

We encourage you all to register for Elevate Education's Term 2 free Parent webinar series.

Click here to register for free

Parent Webinar Series

Year 12

Last Friday, students received their HSC examination timetable via their NESA Students Online account.

We encourage all students to check that the information is correct. If you have any questions, please drop into the Curriculum Office for support.

A reminder that Term 2 assessment planners are available via the Curriculum Matters Classroom or the Curriculum Office, as well as weekly planners.

The Trial HSC examination timetable will be released to students in Week 3. The written examination period starts on Monday 5 August.

Year 11

Students spent last week’s administration lesson completing Term 2 assessment planners and weekly planners. With only 2 terms left of preliminary courses, and a busy term regarding assessments, students understand the importance of being organised in their approach.

Year 10

This is a big term for Year 10 students. Not only will they be spending a week in Canberra or completing a week of work experience, but they will also be asked to think about what they want to do with their life, where and what they want to study in 2025, and where they see themselves in 2, 3 and 4 years’ time.

The start of this journey begins in Week 3, Thursday 16 May, with Year 10 students attending a Careers Expo with Mr Corsalini.

Many students are finding the high expectations of Year 10, and meeting NESA requirements a challenge.

To assist your child with the challenges of Year 10 please ensure they;

  • Attend class
  • Have a daily home study plan – with breaks and rewards factored in
  • Have a designated place to study
  • Hand write notes from readings, videos etc
  • Come to school prepared

There is an advantage to setting up good habits in Year 10. If you receive a low achievement grade in a task it is not telling you that you have failed, it is warning you, it is indicating that you need to act and figure out where the gaps in your knowledge/skills are so that you can improve.

FEEDBACK is only powerful if you act on it

Years 7 – 9 

As you know, the focus for students in Years 7 – 9 at SJPC is on developing healthy learning habits and skills, as well as understanding the content of their courses.

Each day, in every lesson, students have opportunities to develop as learners, improving their understanding of the world and themselves, as well as providing evidence of their learning.

It is the responsibility of all learners to take advantage of the opportunities presented to them.

 

Please refer to our SJPC Assessment and Curriculum site, which can be accessed via Compass under ‘School Favourites’, for information regarding assessments at SJPC including;

Curriculum Assessment Site
  • Assessment Books for all year levels,
  • links to the Year 10, 11 and 12 assessment calendars,
  • copies of all VOA paperwork for Year 10, 11 and 12
  • Policy documents etc

Feel like being challenged

Brown, Claudia
Claudia Brown
Leader of Curriculum

Literacy Matters

All things Literacy, because Literacy matters in all things

THE POWER OF READING

Vocabulary Matters

Few activities in life are as delightful or as valuable as learning new vocabulary.

More words you know the more clearly

Vocabulary is essential for communicating ideas. Research has shown that children need to understand 98% of the words they read to understand what they are reading. Strong vocabulary enables us to better comprehend, engage in wider reading opportunities, write with clarity and maturity and engage in meaningful conversations. Vocabulary is the key to understanding abstract ideas and deeper content.

Strong vocabulary heightens the opportunity for occupational success.

more vocabulary graph
  • Let’s develop a reading habit with our children. Vocabulary building is easiest when we encounter words in context.
  • Let’s expose ourselves to new words and synonyms by using the dictionary and thesaurus 
  • Let’s play word games and share the fun of vocabulary.
  • Let’s subscribe to “word of the day” feeds and online word games
  • Let’s practice using new words in conversation.

You can’t build your vocabulary if you don’t meet new words. 

To meet new words you must read. 

The more you read, the better.

Word of the Week 

Discernment noun

DEFINITION: a wise way of judging between things, or a particularly perceptive way of seeing things

In a sentence: Trust your gut and use your discernment to navigate through life. 

PROVERBS 18:15 The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.

PROVERBS 15:14 The discerning heart seeks knowledge, but the mouth of a fool feeds on folly.

Anxious adjective

DEFINITION: feeling or showing worry, nervousness or unease 

In a sentence: He was extremely anxious about his exams.

There were some anxious moments

While we often use ‘anxious’ to describe worry, nervousness or unease, it can also mean, ‘eager’.

In a sentence: I’m anxious to get started before it rains.

Philippians 4:6-7: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus’

McKelvie, Maree
Maree McKelvie
Literacy Coach

Visual Arts

Year 9 Photography and Digital Media students have demonstrated a remarkable ability to "see" and capture the intrigue and beauty of nature through their sensitive and insightful photography on our recent excursion to the Coffs Harbour Botanical Gardens. With a focus on exploring elements such as colour, dominance, focal point, visual texture, and simplicity from various viewpoints in the design brief, students have produced an array of images that showcase their growing technical skills and individual photographic styles. As an extension students have created photographic Colour Wheels using their imagery to represent the old adage ‘ROY G BIV’ (red, orange yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet).

It's inspiring to see the emergence of budding nature photographers within our class, and I'm excited for how their potential will unfold as we continue to explore new concepts and techniques in our future units. With their passion for photography and a keen eye for detail, I have no doubt that these students will continue to produce captivating and thought-provoking work that reflects their unique perspectives and creative talents. 

Be sure to check out our Instagram page: from_the_art_block for more wonderful SJPC artworks.

Year 9 PVDI (25)Year 9 PVDI (9)Year 9 PVDI (15)Year 9 PVDI (28)Year 9 PVDI (23)Year 9 PVDI (24)Year 9 PVDI (16)Year 9 PVDI (19)Year 9 PVDI (6)Year 9 PVDI (4)Archie Cole - Botanical Gardens- 2nd trip_ Fill the Frame & the Colour WheelYear 9 PVDI (21)Green Summer Sage Minimalistic Colour Palette Instagram PostYear 9 PVDIColour WheelYear 9 PVDI (13)Year 9 PVDI (8)Year 9 PVDI (20)Year 9 PVDI (10)Botanical2PhotoThe Colour WheelYear 9 PVDI (1)Year 9 PVDI (3)Teal Peach Lilac Modern Playful ProductivityYear 9 PVDI (12)Year 9 PVDI (17)Year 9 PVDI (27)Year 9 PVDI (2)Beige Minimalist Color Palette Instagram PostYear 9 PVDI (14)Year 9 PVDI (5)Year 9 PVDI (26)Year 9 PVDI (22)Year 9 PVDI (18)Year 9 PVDI (11)Year 9 PVDI (7)

Berrisford, Renee.jpg
Renee Berrisford
Photography and Digital Media, and Visual Arts Teacher

Sports Corner

SJPC Athlete spotlight

Congratulations to Billy Backhouse (Year 7) on his amazing swim at the CCC Swimming Championships late last term. He finished 6th in the 50m freestyle, which is an amazing achievement. Billy has been swimming since he was little and enjoyed his first CCC swimming event.

Backhouse, William

Inter House Volleyball

Last term our students competed in the Inter House Volleyball competition, led by our very enthusiastic House Captains and Vice Captains. Each week, one year group gathered to play Volleyball against each other to earn highly converted House points. Most year groups were supportive of the competition which meant that every week the leaderboard changed right up until the end. Even the staff got involved in the final week, which sealed the results.

Congratulations to all houses and to our Inter House Volleyball champions for 2024, Hargreaves House!

1st - Hargraves  2nd - Casey 3rd - McAuley 4th - Kelly

Bill Turner Football

Bill Turner Cup - Boys

The Bill Turner Cup team played Coffs Christian Community College on Friday 3rd May in very wet and muddy conditions. The boys played some top-quality football with some slick passing and movement to come away 4-0 winners. The goal scorers were Riley Johnson, Lachlan Ryan and Eli Nalder, who scored two goals. The boys now progress to Round 3, which will be a home game against McAuley Catholic College or Grafton High in the coming weeks.

Bill Turner Cup Team (1)Bill Turner Cup Team (2)

Bill Turner Trophy - Girls

Our girls team travelled to Toormina High on Monday 6th May to compete in Round 2 of the Bill Turner Trophy. Despite the wet and muddy conditions, the girls dominated and controlled play for the duration of the game, coming away winners, 6 - 1. Congratulations to all players and coaches, Mrs Victorian Istrata and Mr Joshuah Moore. The team now progresses to Round 3 against either BDC or Christian Community College.

Bill Turner Trophy

Diocesan Champions: North v South Diocesan Football Final

On Friday 3rd May our Open boys competed against Xavier Catholic College from Skennars Head to determine the Diocesan Football Champions. Our boys looked sharp right from the start and dominated play, taking many shots on goal that we could not capitalise on. The rain made the conditions challenging, however, the boys continued to dominate and won 2-1. As Diocesan Champions, the boys now play the Champions school from the Armidale Diocese.

Dio Boys Football (2)Dio Boys Football (5)Dio Boys Football (1)Dio Boys Football (3)Dio Boys Football (4)

Sports News

SJPC student Blake Carter raced at Mt Stromlo in Canberra last weekend. Racing against 70+ boys in his age group, Blake came away with 1st place on the podium! The day saw him bounce around between 1st and 4th place for most of the day and in the last hour, he was coming 3rd. In his last ride on Lazer track, he ended up doing a very fast time, smashing his first run by 11.3 seconds. This moved him into 1st place.  The last hour was a nervous wait while we the remaining competitors finished their runs. Well done, Blake!

MTB Blake Carter (2)MTB Blake Carter (1)

Coming Up - Term 2 2024

Mon 13 May

AFL Senior Schools Cup, Toormina
Fri 17 May

Diocesan Cross Country, Grafton

Fast 5 Netball (Year 11 and 12 only), Coffs Harbour

Tues 21 - Wed 22 May CCC Hockey, Bathurst
Wed 22 May Country Cup League (13, 15 and Opens), Port Macquarie
Thursday 30 May Futsal Schools event (16, 19’s), Coffs Harbour (Pupil Free Day)
Friday 31 May Futsal Schools event (13, 14 and 15 years), Coffs Harbour
Tuesday 4 June BNSW Schools basketball (Open boys), Coffs Harbour
Wednesday 5 June BNSW Schools basketball (Open girls), Coffs Harbour
Thursday 6 June
Cochrane Cup (14s), Port Macquarie
Wednesday 12 June Diocesan Football (Juniors), Coffs Harbour
Tuesday 18 - Wed 20 June CCC Open Basketball (Boys and girls), Penrith



McAra, Danielle
Danielle McAra
Leader of Sport

Languages

Reitaku Exchange Program

Over the holidays, we said goodbye to 4 of our exchange students from our sister school, Reitaku Mizunami and welcomed 4 more students.

Aoba Takeuchi, Chizuru Fujita, Mieko Bun and Taichi Ishikawa had been with us for the whole of Term 1 and they were farewelled with lots of laughs and tears. The students enjoyed making new friends and experiencing a different school and home life to theirs in Japan.

The 2nd group of exchange students were also welcomed in the holidays. Mayu Urasawa, Remi Oshima, Shoya Harada and Tomoki Kaneko will be with us for 2 and a half months, staying with our wonderful host families.

We thank our host families, students and staff for their generosity and hope that Mayu, Remi, Shoya and Tomoki enjoy their stay.

Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (4)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (2)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (5)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (3)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (8)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (6)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (1)Reitaku Exchange Program part 2 (7)

Binnie, Kirsten
Kirsten Binnie
Leader of Learning - Languages

Mothers Day Breakfast

Mothers Day banner

Thank you to the many mothers, grandmothers and carers who supported the annual College Mother’s Day Breakfast. With great company, scrumptious food, superb weather and an outstanding array of talent on display it certainly was a recipe for success. Our mums (& mother figures) are often the unsung heroes of society and it is important that we take time out to thank them for this and the many roles they play in our lives.

Thanks also to the staff who contributed to the organisation of the day as well as the wonderful music students and department who supplied the music for the morning.

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Office News

Barista Position Available 2024


SJPC Communication - Facebook

Do you follow SJPC's Facebook page? This is where you will find reminders of upcoming social events, sporting updates, transport delays, job advertisements and photos of SJPC students participating in everyday life at the College.

To start following St John Paul College, Coffs Harbour please click on this link


SJPC Facebook

Compass

Attendance and Permission to Leave School during the Day - Early Departure

Please note early departures or late arrivals cannot be submitted as an attendance note via the Compass App. Only full day absences can be submitted using the attendance note via the Compass App.

Students must have a written note from their parents/carers, giving an explanation and requesting permission to leave the College at a specific time. Students must take the note to the College Office before school and a Compass reminder notice is uploaded on the student's dashboard. At the allocated time, students must return to the College Office to formally sign out for the day and return the handwritten note.

For urgent appointments or requests to leave the College without a written note, parents/carers are required to collect their student from the College Office. Students will not be dismissed from class until parents/carers arrival at the College Office. Please allow enough time for the Office staff to retrieve students, as there could be delays leaving the Office. If students are able to bring a note in the morning this will alleviate any delay.

Arriving Late or Returning from an Appointment

Students MUST sign in at the College Office if they are arriving late to school or if students are returning to school after an appointment.

Compass - Permission to Leave from SPORT - Early Departure

Students must bring a written note from their parents/carers to the College Office before they depart for sport. Early departure from Sport cannot be submitted via the Compass App only a written note will be accepted. Only full day absences can be submitted using the attendance note via the Compass App.

Student Diary

Helpful information is found in the student diary regarding daily college procedures. Please take the time to go through the student diary with your child.

Lost Property

Please encourage your child to visit the Office if they have lost any school items. Please mark your child's name on all school items, including airpods, pencil cases, drink bottles, sport bags and school uniform. 

Uniform Shop

Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 7:30am - 9:00am

Homework Centre

Hours: Monday - Thursday 3:20pm - 5:00pm

Finance 

Subject Elective Fees, Online Course Fees and TVET Fees
Please be advised that Year 9 to Year 12 Subject Elective Fees, Online Course Fees and TVET Fees for 2024 have been raised in Compass. The date due for payment is the Friday 7 June 2024. Please refer to your Compass Account for further details. 
Statements will be emailed the first week of May 2024.
For fee related enquiries and payment plan assistance, please contact the Catholic Schools Office by email: cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au
The Catholic Schools Office Fee Enquiry
Ph: 6653 1655
Office Hours: 8:30am to 4:00pm
Email: cofhs-fees@lism.catholic.edu.au
CSO Logo with name 1.5.24

School Traffic Management

Traffic and Parking Guidelines

Below is a video to help parents and students understand the traffic and parking guidelines at SJPC. Please take the time to watch this video with your child. 

Traffic flow video

School Traffic Management 19.2.24
School Traffic Management 19 _2 _24 213.74 KB

Catholic Schools Parent Assembly - Conference

Conference Flyer 2024 5.4.24
Conference Flyer 2024 5 _4 _24 656.34 KB

2024 Annual Year 7 Men and Boys Camp Out - new date

Unfortunately due to bad weather the Men & Boys Year 7 Campout was postponed. We are pleased to reopen the event via Compass for Friday 17 May 2024.
Please click on the link to register via Compass by Monday 13 May. Cost is $30 (covers both Dad & Son).  
Men & Boys Year 7 Campout - 17.5.24 new date

God bless

Davis, Tim

Tim Davis
Teacher

2024 Kawalazi Development Project

At SJPC, Staff and Students will be celebrating Kawalazi during Term 2, Wednesday 15 - Tuesday 28 May 2024. It is a time of the year we do all we can to support our sister school in Malawi. This has been a long running development project of over 20 years. 

Often good education has been seen as the key to unlocking the potential of a young person. A donation of $50 is enough to support a Kawalazi student for a whole year at school. 

Attached is a sponsorship form which can be returned to the College or emailed with payment to sponsor a student. 

Dates to remember:

  • The Kawalazi Assembly that will feature a guest speaker who will reflect on their African experience - Week 3, Wednesday 15 May.

  • The Kawalazi School Social with a "Red, Green & Black" theme - Week 5, Tuesday 28 May.

Please do all you can to support this tremendous initiative.

1 Kawalazi Development Project Sponsorship Form 2024 - 2025
1 Kawalazi Development Project Sponsorship Form 2024 - 2025 179.68 KB

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