Week 11 Term 1 2024

Message from the Principal

We conclude this term with an attitude of gratitude toward our students, families, and staff. As Archbishop Romero reminds us, ‘This is what we are about: We plant the seeds that one day will grow. We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.’ Archbishop Romero is known for his Missionary work in El Salvador, where he was tragically martyred while sharing Mass in a hospital chapel.  The Arch Bishop's words ring true in our context as we aim to nurture our students. References to planting seeds and nurturing them are common in scripture and our Catholic tradition. We are reminded of this in Matthew 13: ‘The Parable of the Sower’. We are encouraged through this parable to continue trusting that ‘the soil’ will produce abundantly and not to be discouraged if things become challenging. 

This term we have been witnesses to the growth of our students through the nourishment of our care, our curriculum, and the provision of opportunities to grow through community involvement. This end-of-term reflection is based on letting our community know what we see, hear, and read about our College that aligns with our Student Engagement Plan and our mission to set hearts on F.I.R.E.

FAITH
The annual Chrism Mass was an opportunity to attend Mass with the members of the Cathedral Parish and the Priests of the Diocese. Bishop Gregory also asked us to be appreciative of the work of the Clergy. Holy oils were blessed as we came together to prepare for Easter. Our SRC participated with reverence and reflected on the importance of Easter.

This week we opened Catholic Education Week with the celebration of the Eucharist. School leaders, along with their Principals, from the Richmond region, joined us for this special Mass. Father Bing Monteagudo encouraged students to take opportunities and thanked them for their stewardship of our Catholic Schools. 

Our annual Student Representative Council sleepover began with a communal prayer. Each of the 31 members brought an item of significance and shared its importance in shaping the person that they are today. The common themes that emerged became the focus of our prayer. Family, memories, friends, and vulnerable sharing align with developing the trust that is needed to ensure our SRC is connected and authentic. I can assure you that they are. 

INTEGRITY
We are aiming to ensure that our students become the best version of themselves. The foundation of all connections is linked to integrity. We have been workshopping this in Home Groups, Year Meetings, and assemblies. 

RELATIONSHIPS
The opportunities to build relationships and foster connections have been boundless this term. Thank you to our students who see the culture of the College as one of inclusion, a place where respect is at the forefront of interactions and where communications are honest, open and real. This photo banner shows our community in action. This includes the participation of over 200 students on Open Night, around the grounds and other activities. I have also included the link for the Weekly Wraps that have been posted on Facebook each week. If you haven't followed us please consider it. 

EMPATHY
The ability to take on another's perspective, to understand, feel, and possibly share and respond to their experiences is featured not only in our daily interactions but is also a tool to engage in the understanding of societies and cultures. Cognitive empathy is being aware of the emotional state of another person, emotional empathy is engaging with and sharing those emotions, and compassionate empathy involves taking action to support other people. Our pastoral care lessons, year meetings, and student conferences are focused on developing this.

Living Life to the Full often requires us to step outside of our normal realm. Last week our senior students represented the College at the NSW Parliament's Bicentenary Youth Leaders Roundtable and the NSW Parliament's Bicentenary Public Speaking Competition in Lismore. On the evening Alex Parry, Matilda Price, Annabelle Taylor, and Ben Davis were part of a youth panel addressing local and state Parliamentarians. The key topics covered included University access, youth violence, and being aware that the voice of youth is an integral part of policy formation moving forward. We thank the team for the intelligent way they engaged in the process and for their excellent representation of the College.

Kate Alexander, Year 12, delivered an impressive speech to the panel about the issues around Indigenous Education and the inaction associated with systems approaches to change. Kate won the public speaking competition and will be travelling to Sydney for the State Finals in August. We are so proud of her achievement.

Parent Partnerships
We believe that it is essential that parents are informed about the goals and procedures that are currently shaping the direction of the College. We are welcoming and would like to encourage parents to be involved in the life of the College. The following attachments have been discussed in past newsletters. They have been developed with staff, parents, and students. To have further input please attend parent meetings.

• Students Engagement Plan
• School Annual Improvement Plan

The P and F AGM on May 6 will be an opportunity for you to be part of the future direction and review of Woodlawn’s Mission and Learning and Teaching agendas and practice.

Tomorrow our staff will gather for the annual Staff Spirituality Day. This is a day for personal encounters and reflections. Bishop Gregory shared his message about the importance of Rest. I would like to express my appreciation to all of our staff who have earned a rest and the time to find some spiritual space.

Enjoy your holidays and ensure that you all have a rest. Be safe and look forward to Term 2.

Annette Reen
Principal 2024

Message from the Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching

Staff Spirituality and Staff Development Days
On Friday, 12 April (Friday Week 11), under the direction of Bishop Gregory, the Parish School Spirituality Day modules will be continued this year. Participating in the modules allows staff to deepen their spirituality and connect with our central mission in Catholic Education. Furthermore, on 29 April (Monday, Week 1), our dedicated staff will dive into enriching professional learning opportunities. These learning sessions are aligned with our School's Annual Improvement Plan Learning and Teaching goal to apply intentional pedagogy to improve academic culture and learning outcomes. Teacher learning sessions are geared towards enhancing our students' quality of education and overall experience. Please note that both days will be Student Free Days.

Your Feedback Matters: 'Tell Them From Me Survey'
We deeply value your insights! The 'Tell Them From Me Survey' offers an invaluable platform for parents, students, and staff to share feedback, shaping our school's future strategies. The survey will be available next term (in Weeks 2 - 4). The survey typically takes about fifteen minutes to complete. Rest assured, a direct link to the survey will be shared with all parents and guardians early in Term 2. Your feedback is not just appreciated—it is essential in progressing the College as we develop our strategic plan that will span the next three years.

We look forward to and appreciate your involvement.

Year 11 Examinations Approaching
A final reminder for our Year 11 students: your first round of senior examinations is set to begin on Thursday, 2 May (Week 1 Term 2) and will conclude on Thursday, 9 May (Week 2 Term 2), with all students expected to return to class on Friday, May 10. It is important to maintain some revision in the holidays in preparation for the examinations, however, this should be done with balance in mind. Students should ensure they get some downtime to exercise, enjoy family and friends, and ensure they get enough sleep and healthy food so they are well-rested and ready for the examinations in Week 1. Good luck with your preparations and enjoy the holiday break. 

Year 7 Parent-Teacher Interviews
It was fantastic to see such positive conversations taking place on Tuesday night as we welcomed our Year 7 families to their first round of Parent Teacher Student interviews. The interviews are always an excellent opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and build community. If you were unable to make the evening please take the time to engage with your child’s teacher via email or phone call about what they have seen in class and how you can best support their learning at home. We look forward to continuing to work with you in support of the learning for all students within the Woodlawn community. 

Responsibility For Learning #2
The second round of RFL results will be shared with students and parents early next week. Students from the first round of RFL have been commended for achieving highly across all subject areas, and conversations about setting goals are being held with students who have areas to work on. Sometimes, small changes in application, organisation, and effort are all that is needed to see great improvements in learning. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and involvement in our school community.

Matthew Bailey
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching
matthew.bailey@lism.catholic.edu.au

Message from the Assistant Principal - Mission

Catholic Education Week
Last week was Catholic Education Week and our chance to showcase the privilege of belonging to our Woodlawn community. With the theme of Innovation and Faith, we had several opportunities to participate in faith-filled events, making connections and inviting others into our welcoming community. Our Catholic Schools Week Mass on Monday invited members of the Richmond Cluster to celebrate our Catholic School heritage. Today saw the return of our House Breakfasts where families from our Bell House community joined staff for breakfast. The busy week will conclude with staff attending the Bishop’s Spirituality Day. All in all, this is a week to celebrate the special nature of our Catholic Schools that help our students achieve the fullness of life.

Easter Liturgy
We acknowledged the end of the Lenten season with an Easter liturgy. As many other Catholics did around the world, we focused on the Stations of the Cross and Jesus’s path to Golgotha. We reflected on the challenges that Jesus faced and how these challenges could be reflected in our lives. The challenge for us is to love one another as Jesus loved us, expecting nothing in return. This love of others without expecting anything in return, is reflected in our generous contribution to our Caritas fundraiser, Hearts for Hope. 

Caritas Fundraiser
Our Lenten fundraising effort for this year was to support Caritas. Our Home Groups were challenged to donate money to purchase hearts. These hearts were decorated and displayed in the Library.  Through the generosity of our community, the College raised $3,568.55 for Caritas. Congratulations to Segrief 8 who purchased 14 hearts. Your generosity and love for others is appreciated. 

Winter uniform
Term 2 will see students returning wearing the winter uniform. Please get in early to see if the uniforms from last year still fit. If not, please note the opening times for the Uniform Shop.

ANZAC Day
Details for the local ANZAC Day Marches in our local communities have been shared via a Compass Event. Students attending will need to wear the full winter uniform including blazer, tie, and hat.

Youth Advisory Council
The NSW Youth Advisory Council (YAC) plays an important role in advising the NSW Government on issues that are relevant to young people across the state.

Membership of the YAC is open to all children and young people aged between 12 and 24 years residing in NSW. Applications are sought from young people with diverse backgrounds and life experiences, from across NSW. The 12-member YAC provides a direct avenue of communication between young people and the NSW Government. 

The YAC meets regularly throughout the year to provide advice to the relevant Minister, and the NSW Advocate for Children and Young People, on issues, policies, and laws that affect children and young people in NSW.

If your child/guardian is interested in applying for a position, click here to learn more.

If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me on 66262627 or fiona.fennamore@lism.cathlolic.edu.au.

Kind regards,

Fiona Fennamore
Assistant Principal Mission

Message from the Leader of Evangelisation

LEAD Conference 2024
Years 11 and 12 students attended the Lismore Diocese LEAD Conference on Thursday and Friday of Week 8. St John’s students came together with other seniors from across the Lismore Diocese. Held in Grafton at McAuley Catholic College, the conference aims to build up the next generation of Catholic leaders. The students enjoyed praise and worship with the Lismore Proclaim Wildfire Band, large and small group activities, guest keynote speakers from across Australia, games, Mass celebrated by Fr Peter Wood from Murwillumbah, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, food, music, friends and much more!

Please find here the 2024 LEAD wrap video and a PDF report of the gathering.

Junior Ministry Group
Each Monday at St John’s College, Youth Minister Natasha Wotherspoon, runs a Junior Youth Ministry Group for students in Years 7-9. All students are welcome to join in this fun and faith. We have a healthy number of students participating in weekly discussion, learning, laughter, music, craft, scripture, prayer and games. If your child is interested in joining a ministry group (Junior Yr 7-8, Senior Yr 10-12) they can make contact via kallie.deegan@lism.catholic.edu.au, or keep an eye on the Daily Bulletin for when the groups are on each week. 

Kallie Deegan
Leader of Evangelisation
kallie.deegan@lism.catholic.edu.au

Exploring Art & Culture

 Year 11 Visual Art Excursion
Our Year 11 Visual Art students, accompanied by their dedicated teachers Justine Kennedy, Sharon Thompson, and Liam Weakes, embarked on an enriching journey to Sydney from Wednesday to Friday, 20-22 March. This excursion was a comprehensive exploration of various art forms and cultural experiences, providing students with invaluable insights and inspiration for their artistic endeavours.

The itinerary was packed with exciting activities, including visits to renowned institutions such as ArtExpress, Sydney Biennial, Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), National Art School, Brett Whiteley Gallery, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales. These visits allowed our students to immerse themselves in diverse artistic expressions, from contemporary works to timeless classics, sparking their creativity and broadening their artistic horizons.

Throughout the trip, students engaged in workshops led by their peers, focusing on process and practice, as well as educator-led sessions delving into gallery exhibitions. Additionally, HSC theory workshops provided invaluable insights into image analysis and case studies, enhancing students' analytical skills and understanding of art theory.

One of the highlights of the excursion was the visit to White Bay Sugar Mill at Rozelle, where students had the opportunity to experience the Sydney Biennial installations firsthand, fostering a deeper appreciation for art in unconventional spaces. Moreover, dinner at Govindas and a screening of a Bob Marley film added cultural dimensions to the trip, enriching students' experiences beyond the realm of traditional art.

A moment of quiet reflection amidst our busy schedule took place at St Mary’s Cathedral, where students lit candles for those in their thoughts and prayers. This poignant moment provided an opportunity for students to connect with their inner selves and contemplate amidst the bustling city life.

A daily photography competition encouraged students to creatively capture the contrast of urban and city life, fostering artistic expression and observation skills. This initiative not only encouraged creativity but also provided a platform for students to showcase their unique perspectives on the bustling cityscape.

Our teachers were impressed by the maturity and professionalism exhibited by our students throughout the excursion. Ms Kennedy remarked, "The maturity of our students representing our college was evident in their engagement and respect shown. They embraced every opportunity presented to them with enthusiasm and openness, truly embodying the spirit of learning and exploration."

A humbling moment for our teachers occurred when our students came across the work of 2023 graduate, Ella Shield, exhibited in the ArtExpress Exhibition at The Art Gallery of NSW. Her work was discussed by gallery educators in the process and practice workshops, reminding us of her remarkable achievements. Selected as one of 50 works from 8,660 students across NSW, Ella achieved the 7th highest result in Visual Arts—an impressive accomplishment that filled us with immense pride as we stood in front of her work and listened to her art being celebrated in the workshop.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the parents for their unwavering support, recognising the significance of such excursions in their child's educational journey. This trip not only facilitated personal growth but also strengthened teacher-student relationships, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

As rural students, access to state-of-the-art exhibitions and facilities is not readily available, making this trip even more invaluable. It provided our students with unique opportunities to engage with art on a broader scale, fueling their creativity and igniting their passion for the arts.

The Year 11 Visual Art excursion to Sydney was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on our students' artistic journeys. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and development of our budding artists as they draw inspiration from this enriching experience.

Sharon Thompson
Leader of Learning, Creative Arts
sharon.thompson@lism.catholic.edu.au

Careers Update

Careers Update Week 11 Term 1
It is great to see the range of events, functions, and activities our students have engaged in in a diverse range of fields as we come to the end of Term 1. These are an excellent way in which to enhance and upgrade your employability skills. When Home Group teachers encourage students to engage in co-curricular activities they are thinking not just about how participating will improve our College community, but also how this will help students build soft skills for post-school life. Universities and employers are consistently looking for these additional skills.

Many universities have opened their Early Entry programs now and UAC has opened so that students can apply to NSW Universities. Not all courses will be available on the portal yet, but remember if your student is planning to apply to NSW Universities they will need to apply before September to get the early bird price and save over a hundred dollars for their application. I am currently meeting with Year 12 students to discuss their plans. Make sure you don’t miss out.

Please take some time to go to the Careers Update page where you will find information on Universities, TAFE, Early Entry, Upcoming Events, Work Experience, and more. 

Careers Updates - https://sites.google.com/lism.catholic.edu.au/careersupdate/upcoming-events-and-other-opportunities

Bernie Maginnity
Careers, Vocational Pathways Coordinator
bernie.maginnity@lism.catholic.edu.au 

Transitus Retreat

On Monday, 8 April, twelve Year 7 students travelled to Camp Drewe in Lennox Head to participate in the Transitus Retreat. The students participated in a range of activities in small groups designed to celebrate and further their faith and to ease the transition into secondary school. It was a chance for the students to meet like-minded peers and to celebrate with others who wish to grow and be supported in their Christian faith.

Once we arrived at Camp Drewe, students were allocated their cabins and placed into small groups. Each small group contained a mix of students from different schools, with approximately eight students in each group. The retreat theme was “Do Not Be Afraid”, and students participated in various activities, including team-building exercises, sandcastle building that represented hopes and fears, and reflecting on their experiences of trust. Students then participated in the night prayer ceremony, and before we knew it, it was time for bed.

On Tuesday, the students again participated in group activities such as games, discussing and reflecting on our relationship with God and how they can use this special connection in everyday life. Students were then involved in preparing our Mass, where they were involved in the choir, preparing Prayers of the Faithful, creating prayer space, and organising the room. After the conclusion of the Mass, we said farewell to our newly formed friends. We headed home after an extensive and enriching two days!

Brock Smith
Classroom Teacher
Mathematics, PDHPE & Catholic Studies
brock.smith@lism.catholic.edu.au

Attendance

Going on a Family Holiday/Family Event?
Less than 10 days: Please notify the school that your student will be absent via the Compass Absence feature or email lisjc-studentservices@lism.catholic.edu.au 
More than 10 days: Complete Form 01 Extended Leave Notification.

Does your student compete or attend Elite Sport programs?
Also include talented identification programs run by the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation.
Complete Form 05 Exemption from Attendance General.

Dose your student attend Elite Arts Programs?
Accredited Elite Arts programs are defined as an opportunity for a student to participate in an event or program that is beyond the gifted and talented opportunities that the Diocese offers.
Complete Form 05 Exemption from Attendance General.

Late Arrival
Students arriving after 8.55 am, need to enter via the Student Service Office. Please submit late arrivals via the Compass Submit Attendance Note feature. 

Early Departure
Please use the Compass Submit Attendance Note feature to notify of early departure. The Student Service Office cannot guarantee your student to be ready for an early departure without adequate notification.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zone
Reminder the drop-off and pick-up zone is located between the school and the ovals at the back of the school. Please do not collect your student from the front entrance due to safety reasons.

Instructions for entering details into Compass to submit absence/ late arrival/ early departure (alternatively see attached pdf for instructions)

• Log into your Compass account

• Click on the +Shortcuts symbol at the bottom of the page

• Select Submit Attendance Note

• Select Reason

• Add Details/Comments

• Select the date and time that your child will be collected or absent

• Select the End date as the date or time your child will be returning to school (or 3.15pm if they are not returning to school that day)
• Select Potentially Affected Sessions 

• Hit Add Attendance Note at the bottom of the page.

Lost Property
Lost Property is located outside the Student Services Office. Please clearly label all items that are brought or worn to school.

Student Services Office
Lisjc-studentservices@lism.catholic.edu.au
6626 2629

School Photos

Thursday 23 May & Friday 24 May

Please find attached the instructions for ordering school photos.

Canteen News

Flexischools orders has a cut-off time of 9.00am.

The cash free way to pay! - REGISTER NOW
Paying for lunches is now safer and hassle free. With cashless cards there's no need for students to bring cash to school.

The College has Flexischools to allow students to pay at the Canteen using their existing student ID card. Paying for lunches and items at recess or lunch is now safer and hassle free. With cashless cards there's no need for students to bring cash to school. Parents can set daily spending limits and view transactions online. Parents can also top-up funds at any time.

The Canteen has introduced a Fast-Track line for students who have pre-ordered to collect their lunches, making it much easier and quicker for students.

We encourage all students to register. This will allow for those days when your student may have forgotten their homemade lunches.

Please follow the link below to register now:

Uniform Shop

The Woodlawn Uniform Shop is proudly managed by P&C Uniforms.
To ensure you have an easy and pleasant experience while ordering uniforms, we encourage you to order online ahead of time for easy click-and-collect in store. 

Uniform Shop Opening Hours (during term - for holiday times see below):
Time: Monday 8.00am - 9.30am & Wednesday 11.00am - 2.00pm
Where: Colin Centre
Order Online: www.sjcwuniformshop.com.au 
Book a fitting: www.sjcwuniformshop.com.au/bts-appointments

Second Hand Uniform Shop Opening Hours:
Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm
When: Every Wednesday
Where: Colin Centre 

Leanne Copeland
Uniform Shop Convenor
0407 739 237 

Community News