Week 4 Term 4 2024

Message from the Principal

This week we returned to a discussion around the concept of ‘Integrity’ as shaping who we become and how we fit into an increasingly complex world. Our weekly assembly is a chance to reinforce the underpinning values of a Woodlawn student. Across the College, various Leadership teams will have moments when they need to challenge students about being truthful to ensure that relationships are authentic and based on trust. It is a natural disposition to often shade the truth to dissolve accountability. I would like to commend our students, who find themselves in difficult conversations for the way they have begun to embrace this concept. It is far easier to own behaviour than it is to weave a web of mistruths that will eventually lead to a breaking of trust. We are also encouraging students to be more active in reporting situations that they are finding difficult or distressing. From experience, by the time someone comes forward, either personally or through a parent, there has been a series of events that have accumulated into a triggering situation. This is something we can only overcome with cooperation and information. We are very vigilant in following up on any parental and student concerns. Our Year Coordinators are generous with their time and know their students. Parents also have the opportunity to contact any leadership members to assist. We see ourselves as partners and would like to walk the high school journey together. We all have the same goal to support students' growth, wellbeing and learning.

I am honoured to work closely with our SRC. We meet weekly to discuss a range of issues, to plan for the implementation of their initiatives, and to ensure that student voice is channelled to the College Leadership team. I would like to acknowledge their enthusiasm as they plan to support our St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal, organising ‘Feel Good Fridays’ in the Eagle Centre to promote inclusivity and assisting in developing the criteria for a new award for students who ‘Walk in the Woodlawn Way’. There will be 5 awards given out for each year level on our official Prize Giving Ceremony. This concept was also affirmed unanimously by the Community Parent Forum. 

Criteria - Students who:

• Foster connections.
• Are proud of the College traditions both at school and in public.
• Display integrity that is grounded in respectful relationships.
• Involve themselves in community service including Social Justice initiatives.
• Have a can-do attitude.

We are looking forward to celebrating the Year 12 cohort at the conclusion of their HSC examinations. Our students have been so well supported by our teachers and staff. Thank you to our dedicated teachers for your diligence, care and support of our students' academic and social well-being. It has been heartwarming to hear so many positive comments from students coming out of their exams. It is due to our highly dedicated teachers that these responses are being shared openly and with positivity. Thank you to the Pastoral Care team whose continuous practice of touching base, following up and providing support has given students an inner sense of calm and confidence. I would like to recognise the tireless work of Mrs Sally Ryall and Mr Matthew Bailey behind the scenes. Their daily attention to detail, their follow-up of students who are unable to attend for a range of reasons and the settling of students at the start of each examination was so important. To our Maintenance team, we are grateful for the clean, well-organised environments where our students were able to complete their exams. The generous gift of time was given from all sectors of our community. We look forward to the celebrations ahead. Our journey with this cohort is complete.

This final message is one that affirms our beliefs here at the College.

Regards,

Annette Reen
Principal 2024

Message from the Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Term 4 seems to fly past at lightning speed at the College as we approach the end of the academic year for Years 7-11. The extended daylight hours give our students opportunities to enjoy their recreational activities after classes conclude. These activities play a vital role in maintaining mental and physical wellbeing. However, during these warm, extended days, students might be tempted to postpone essential tasks. We must emphasise that continued and sustained academic focus is essential. Students should prioritise creating their study schedules, beginning their essay drafts, and organising their class materials now. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle balance, it's crucial for our students to continue to dedicate time to their academic pursuits in the weeks ahead.

Please note that next Thursday, November 14, will be a pupil-free day as staff participate in syllabus writing to support one of the most significant curriculum reforms of the past three decades.

HSC Examinations finish
Today marked the conclusion of the HSC Examinations, with our Geography students closing out the examination period in style. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all Year 12 students; they have been an exceptional cohort, and their commitment to their final assessments was impressive. We eagerly anticipate celebrating their achievements at the Formal in Week 5 and affirming their results in Week 10.

Year 10 Examinations
Year 10 has completed their examinations. Our teaching staff are collaborating to ensure consistent and equitable marking across all papers. Results and feedback will be distributed in the coming weeks. However, Year 10 students still have important coursework to complete for their Stage 5 requirements before their work experience placement in Week 9. The final portion of term will focus on Year 11 preparation.

Year 7-9 Examinations
Years 7-9 will undertake their final examinations in Week 6. Following my earlier point about preparation, we encourage parents to assist their children in exam preparation by utilising the study guides provided by their teachers. Mrs Ryall has made the examination timetables available on the Student Learning hubs. 

Co-curricular life at the College
Our co-curricular program continues to thrive. This is evidenced through our Facebook and Instagram platforms, which showcase the diverse range of opportunities available to our students. These activities are fundamental to developing well-rounded individuals, and we are grateful for our staff's unwavering commitment to providing these enriching experiences for our students.

Matthew Bailey
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

Message from the Assistant Principal - Mission

Bullying and Safety
At assembly this week I shared with students our Tell Them From Me Data around bullying and safety. Earlier in the year, 24% of students said they had experienced some form of bullying at school and 60% of students said they felt safe at school or travelling to and from school.  In order to gather more detailed information about this, and make Woodlawn a place where all students feel safe and where positive relationships are valued, students have also completed a survey. This will allow for a detailed analysis of student voice, which will not only include the qualitative data gathered from the survey, but also that gained from a focus group of students who indicated they would like to discuss these issues further.

Today is School Counsellor and School Psychologist Recognition Day. This year’s theme, "Little Moments, Lasting Change," captures the essence of the invaluable work our counsellors/psychologists do every day. They have provided little moments of listening, understanding, and connecting that have supported students, families, and staff to notice their needs and strengths, persevere and grow. Susan Doughty, Christina Hazell and Jacqui Rojo - we are grateful for your skills, professionalism, and dedication. Thank you for your hard work this year and we look forward to your amazing contribution next year.

The Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools has advised that all parents and carers in our school community have access to free, live webinars.  These live webinars give parents and carers the knowledge, skills, and tools to support their children in having safe online experiences.
 
eSafety 101: how eSafety can help you
This webinar provides an overview of The eSafety Commissioner and supporting programs and resources for parents and carers, children, and young people. It is suitable for parents and carers of children and young people in primary and secondary school: Wednesday, 4 December, 12.30pm. The registration link is available here.

Supporting healthy tech use as your child transitions into high school
This webinar explores the social pressures, peer influences, and technological challenges young people face as they transition into high school.  It also offers practical strategies for navigating online friendships and connections to help minimise negative experiences. This is suitable for parents and carers of children in upper primary school (ages 11 to 12) and Year 7: Thursday, 28 November, 12.30 pm. Use this link to register.

As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting positive mental health in our school setting, we had another five staff trained this week in Youth Mental Health First Aid: Dave Maslen, Amy Colman, Mark Quade, Josh Hodge and Jo Fahey. This brings our total number of staff who have received this training to 43.

The timing aligns nicely with the commencement of our Teen Mental Health First Aid course which begins next week for our Year 10 students.

This is a significant investment in the health and wellbeing of our students.

Hats
Please ensure that all students have a hat that is clearly labelled with their name. This is essential as it is compulsory to wear a hat at recess and lunch times. Students who do not have a hat will be asked to purchase a new hat. We appreciate your support in this matter.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me on 6626 2627 or fiona.fennamore@lism.catholic.edu.au.

Sincerely,

Fiona Fennamore
Assistant Principal - Mission

Message from the Leader of Evangelisation

Year 9 Reflection Day - Thursday Week 3
Year 9 spent their Reflection Day with visiting guest presenter Samuel Clear. Sam is an experienced Youth Minister from Tasmania who visits dioceses across the country, working with parishes and schools. 

His presentation focussed on explaining the challenges one might face in life, and the importance of perseverance through adversity. He did this by using many examples from his Walk4One, where he himself faced many challenges and obstacles as he walked around the world praying for the unity of all Christians.  

Year 9 students thoroughly enjoyed the day which included presentations, discussion, small group activities, large group activities, prayer and reflection.

Upcoming Mission Events
Week 5 
- Wednesday to Friday - Year 10 Boys G.O.A.T. Retreat
- Friday - Year 10 Ministry Students assisting with St Carthage’s Year 4 Accendere Retreat

Week 6
- Tuesday to Thursday - Senior Retreat

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

Counselling Corner

Understanding Teen Depression: A Guide for Parents

Dear Parents,
As we approach Depression Awareness Week, we are reminded of the critical importance of mental health education and support, especially for our teens. The teenage years are a time of growth and transformation, and you play a crucial role in supporting your teen's mental wellbeing. This guide will help you recognise signs of depression, foster open communication, and know when to seek help.

1. Recognising Symptoms in Adolescents
   Depression in teens can manifest differently than in adults. Look out for persistent irritability, withdrawal from friends and activities, changes in sleeping or eating habits, and declining academic performance.
2. Normal Teen Moodiness vs. Clinical Depression
   While mood swings are common in adolescence, clinical depression is more severe and long-lasting. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks and interfere with daily life, it may be time to seek help.
3. Risk Factors and Potential Triggers
   Factors like family history, trauma, chronic illness, or major life changes can increase the risk of depression. Be aware of potential triggers such as academic pressure, social challenges, or identity issues.
4. Talking to Teens About Mental Health
   Open, non-judgmental conversations are crucial. Choose a relaxed time, listen more than you speak, and avoid minimising their feelings. Normalise discussing mental health as part of overall wellbeing.
5. When and How to Seek Professional Help
   If symptoms persist or worsen, start with your GP or school counsellor to access further support. Remember, early intervention can make a significant difference.
6. Treatment Options
   There are various ways to tackle depression, and what works best can be different for each teen. This might include talking to the school counsellor or other therapist to work through feelings and develop coping strategies, or in some cases, medication to help balance brain chemistry. Often, a mix of approaches works best. The key is finding what feels right and helpful for your teen.
7. Supporting a Depressed Teen at Home
   Create a supportive environment by maintaining routines, encouraging healthy habits, and spending quality time together. Be patient and offer unconditional love and support.
8. The Impact of Social Media and Technology
   While technology can provide support resources, excessive use may contribute to depression. Help your teen balance screen time with real-world interactions and activities.
9. Watching for Warning Signs
   If you are concerned about your teen, be aware of changes in behaviour or mood. These might include talking about feeling hopeless, withdrawing from friends and activities, or sudden calmness after a period of depression. Take any mentions of self-harm or suicide seriously and seek immediate help.
10. Self-Care for Parents
    Supporting a depressed teen can be emotionally draining. Remember to take care of yourself too. Seek support from friends, family, or support groups for parents in similar situations.
    
    Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With understanding, support, and professional help when needed, many teens can successfully manage and overcome depression. Your school counsellor is an excellent resource for both you and your teen, offering guidance, support, and referrals to additional services if needed. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for assistance in navigating your teen's mental health journey.

Christina, Susan & Jacqui
College Counsellors

Message from the Sports Department

Lord’s Taverners T20 Cricket Competition - Matthew Phelps Shield
Last week, our Years 7/8 Boys put on a fantastic display in the Lord's Taverners T20 Cricket Competition. Here’s a look at how each game unfolded:

Game 1 vs. Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School:
Our boys started strong with a solid 51-run win. They set a target of 7/134, thanks to steady batting from Reid Simes (25*), Cooper Williams (25*), and Sonny Butler (26*). The bowlers then stepped up, with Will Lynch, Sonny Butler, and Henry Condon each taking two wickets to hold Lindisfarne to 9/83.

Game 2 vs. Emmanuel Anglican College:
Woodlawn kept the momentum going with another win, this time by 68 runs. Zac Cohen (27*), Cooper Williams (25*), Sonny Butler (27*), and Xavier Dann (26*) all contributed with the bat, setting a strong target of 159. Braxton Bull then delivered a game-changing bowling spell, taking 2/10 off three overs, helping to bowl Emmanuel out for 91.

Well done to the entire team for their effort and teamwork – two games, two wins!

Lord’s Taverners T20 Cricket Competition - Lyn Larsen Shield
Our Girls Cricket Team put in a spirited performance last week in the Lyn Larsen Shield competition. Here’s a recap of their matches:

Game 1 vs. Xavier Catholic College:
Playing at Lyn Larsen Oval, Woodlawn batted first, finishing with a respectable 5/72 after 20 overs. Lucia Nilon (retired) and Paige Woolston (not out) led with the bat. When it was their turn to bowl, the girls were unstoppable, with impressive figures from Bella Duncan (2/7), Amelie McPhee (2/5), Ashlee Rugendyke (2/1), and Erika Wisemantel (2/3). They bowled Xavier out for just 28 runs, securing a fantastic win!

Game 2 vs. Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School:
In their second match at Lyn Larsen Oval, Woodlawn bowled first. Erika Wisemantel (2/4), Bella Duncan (1/8), and Ashlee Rugendyke (1/12) delivered solid performances against a Lindisfarne team featuring some representative players, who posted 4/102 in 20 overs. With the bat, Bella Duncan stood out, scoring 10 runs before being bowled out. Despite a determined effort, the girls finished on 9/64 after 20 overs.

It was a great day of cricket, filled with teamwork and determination. Well done to the team for their hard work and spirit!

Berg Shield
In an exciting third-round match of the Berg Shield, our Woodlawn team took on local rivals Trinity Catholic College. After losing the toss and being sent in to bowl, the boys made an early impact with tight bowling from Will Lynch and Cooper Williams. But it was Jimi Bradfield who stole the show, taking an impressive 5/7 off just three overs, including a fantastic caught and bowled. This stellar performance saw Trinity bowled out for 64 runs.

Despite chasing a modest target, Woodlawn’s batting lineup faced some challenges. Sonny Butler and Zac Cohen stepped up with some crucial runs to help get us over the line, ultimately reaching the total with three wickets to spare.

With this win, Woodlawn advances to the quarter-finals of the statewide competition—a fantastic achievement. Well done, team!

CSNSW SPORT AQUATHLON – 19 December
It is on again!! Holiday fun time. The 2024 CSNSW Sport Aquathlon is open to students in Catholic schools in NSW. NSWCCC affiliated students register through csnsw.sport portal as per usual sport registration.

(>>> SPORT REGISTRATION HELP <<<). Non affiliated Catholic schools register through portal – select CSNSW Sport as your school.

• Thursday, 19 December 2024
• Heats from 8:30am; Finals from 11:30am
• Amour Park & Max Parker Aquatic Centre, Revesby
• 8 – 11 yrs 100m swim, 1km run
  12 – 19 yrs 200m swim, 1.8km run
• Entries close 6 December $40. Late entries $55 up to 13 December

More information https://csnsw.sport/sports/csnsw-sport-programmes/aquathlon

2025 NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON & PARA-TRIATHLON – individuals
Entries are now open for the 2025 NSW All Schools Triathlon on 26 February 2025 at Penrith.
Individual entries are through the Sports Unit DASH system (not the CSNSW Sport portal)
Entry is $60 per participant.
For more information>>
To REGISTER>>

2025 NSW ALL SCHOOLS TRIATHLON - School Teams
27 February 2025 at Penrith – teams of 3 – 3 age groups – Junior, Intermediate & Senior.
$75 per team.
Entry by school sports coordinator – through log in on CSNSW.sport portal
Team Registration>>

For more information  - https://csnsw.sport/sports/nswccc-secondary/triathlon

Simon Andrews
simon.andrews@lism.catholic.edu.au 
Sports Coordinator

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 Sports Programs?
Also includes talented identification programs run by the NSW Department of Sport and Recreation.
Complete Form 05 Exemption from Attendance General.

Does 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 Services Office cannot guarantee your student will 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

Canteen News

Flexischools orders have 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, we encourage you to order online ahead of time for easy click-and-collect in store. 

Uniform Shop Opening Hours (School Term):
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 (School Term):
Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm
When: Every Wednesday
Where: Colin Centre 

Leanne Copeland
Uniform Shop Convenor
0407 739 237 

Community News