This Saturday we will be hosting our College Open Day. Can you recall the Open day you attended and decided St Patrick’s would be the school for your daughter? We will have over 400 people at the College on Saturday, which is very exciting. We have had to adjust some of the activities in the rooms to be COVID safe but there is still plenty to see and do for parents and their daughter.  Let your friends and family know and perhaps they can come along as well. It will be lovely to see you on the day.

Next week, Thursday 4 March, we will be hosting our International Women’s Day breakfast. This year we have two ex-students returning to the College to share with us their life journey since leaving St Patrick’s. They are Belinda McMartin, who is CEO of Museum of Fire, and Sachini De Silva, who is a Chemical Engineer.   As always, they are inspiring and wonderful ambassadors of the College and it will be a privilege to hear their story. The cost of the breakfast is free to current students if they attend with a parent. Ticket price is $15 which includes hot and cold food. I urge you to participate as it is always such a great morning. It begins at 6.45 am and will finish at 8.15am on Thursday 4 March.

As we move into mid term 1, work and assessments for the girls will be starting to quicken. The secret to a stress-free term is organisation. Girls need to have their assessment calendar hanging in a prominent place at home. They need to begin their assessments early. They need to study without social media at hand and without other distractions compromising their concentration levels. They need to ensure they devote the recommended length of time every school night to their work. If they have concerns, they need to ask their teacher and share those concerns with you. It is important that the girls take responsibility for their learning and develop the skills to be proactive in ensuring they can achieve their best.

Girls need to have adequate sleep, a healthy diet and a good exercise regime. All these aspects of life will complement the study program that a student is working on. I have become aware of a few students leaving assessments and other important tasks to the night before and then going all night. This is not sustainable and really doesn’t enable the development of good skills for study and life after school. If you are aware your daughter is doing this, please inform her Year Coordinator and we will be able to work with her to find more sustainable ways to manage the workload.

I will leave you with a reflection that was used in the Wollongong Lenten program for Friday 26 February.

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal

Lord,
Help me to see those around me
as my brothers and sisters
and to have the courage 
to work through our differences.
Amen

For such important matters of faith, it is appropriate that Christians devote time and effort into preparing for the holiest of days: Easter Sunday. This is the meaning and purpose of Lent. Lent is a time for preparation, reflection and spiritual renewal. Traditionally, this is done through almsgiving (being charitable to those in need), through prayer (fostering right relationship with God and neighbour), and through fasting (giving up those things in our life that prevent us from being fully human and fully alive).

As a practical means of almsgiving, Lent is also the opportunity for the St Patrick’s community to make donations to Project Compassion. Project Compassion helps to fund the work undertaken by Caritas, the social justice organisation within the Australian Catholic Church which operates in all areas of the world where there is poverty.

In 2021, Pope Francis asks people to “experience Lent with love,” which “rejoices in seeing others grow.”

“To experience Lent with love means caring for those who suffer or feel abandoned and fearful because of the COVID-19 pandemic. In these days of deep uncertainty about the future, let us keep in mind the Lord’s word to his Servant, ‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you’ (Isaiah 43:1). In our charity, may we speak words of reassurance and help others to realise that God loves them as sons and daughters,” Pope Francis wrote in the message published 12 February.

The Pope emphasized that even a small amount of almsgiving when offered with “joy and simplicity” can multiply, as did “the loaves blessed, broken and given by Jesus to the disciples to distribute to the crowd.”

“Love is a gift that gives meaning to our lives. It enables us to view those in need as members of our own family, as friends, brothers or sisters. A small amount, if given with love, never ends, but becomes a source of life and happiness,” he said.

Louise East - Religious Studies Coordinator

Each year our Ash Wednesday liturgy launches the Benedictine value we will focus on throughout the year. For 2021, we will have stewardship as our focus value.

“Make the world a better place!” is the phrase that echoed throughout the MSC at the start of our Ash Wednesday liturgy. Many of us share the belief that God created the world. Indeed the first chapter of the first book of the Bible—the Book of Genesis—is the source of this belief. The Book of Genesis tells us that “God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good.” From the same story from Genesis we learn that God entrusted the care of the world to people.

The Bible teaches us that we have been entrusted with the care of the world. However, having been entrusted with something, we are not only to maintain it; we are expected to make it better as well. In seeing stewardship as not only taking care of something, but also making it better ties in with the theme for Project Compassion this year which is: “be more”. As usual, our fundraising efforts this term will be to try and exceed our previous years’ contributions to Project Compassion.

During this time of Lent, we as a caring community, aspire to continue to make St Patrick’s better and, in turn, we participate in making the world a better place.

Angelo Gattone - Mission Coordinator

Parent/carer engagement in learning is known to lead to improved outcomes for students of all ages. Engagement with homework provides opportunities to gain information about the curriculum as well as the types of content and skills currently being studied. This engagement also models positive educational values and aspirations for our students' success. Students benefit from the world views, knowledge and capacities that exist within diverse families and family contacts.

This article provides advice for families about ways in which support processes for homework can be developed.

Study environment

Establishing an effective home study environment together with your daughter will support her making best use of her time. The Study Skills Handbook suggests the following are aspects of a good home study environment:

• Quiet and private space.
• Distraction free.
• Ergonomic set up.
• Regular breaks.
• Good lighting.
• Ventilation (fresh air).
• Clear workspace.
• Storage space.

One further piece of advice for establishing a good home study environment is to ensure that mobile phones are not within reach of the study environment. Research has shown the mere presence of a mobile phone negatively impacts a student’s performance because it affects their concentration. Phone use should be restricted to periods before and after homework sessions.  

How much homework

Quality homework rather than large amounts of homework is important. Homework should aim to extend and consolidate work done in class. Work at home may also include project-based assessment tasks.  The College Homework Policy, available on the College Website (https://www.saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au/about/policies/) provides examples of the main types of homework and study that may be assigned.

Whilst there is no set time for homework at St Patrick’s College, it is suggested that the following times be used as a guide:

The best way to locate the timetable is to switch back to Portal Version 1 (top right), then select Timetable from the left navigation menu. A ten-day timetable is available for printing. The timetable includes the subject code and the name of the class teacher. Make an appointment to see or speak with the teacher if homework is causing distress; the amount of homework is crowding sleep or family time or if homework is causing your child to hate school. The best way to contact a teacher is to send an email (your daughter will have her teachers' email addresses) and set a time for a phone call.

Time management

Time management is about planning and controlling the amount of time we spend on specific tasks. This skill is not naturally ‘developed’ as a person grows - it must be explicitly taught and modelled. Teaching time management supports students in their development of independent strategies and in taking ownership of their homework processes.

Good time management practices can be taught by creating a study timetable. A study timetable can help to manage the competing needs of school and out of school commitments. Elevate Education has some useful advice on how to create a study timetable and they offer downloadable templates to support the process https://austudent.elevateeducation.com/media/books-planner/study-timetable.

A final word from Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

Whether it is starting school for the first time, moving up to a higher grade or embarking on a journey through secondary school, there is no doubt that any school transition is a very exciting time for children and parents. It means that the children are growing up! However, for many it may also be a very anxious and stressful time for both parents and children. Familiarisation is often key to reducing stress levels. It is also important for parents to talk to their children about their expectations and being more responsible for their own needs.

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg offers further advice for parents on the topic of school transition and homework at our School TVportal.

The College is exploring ways in which we can more effectively partner with parents/carers to enhance student learning outcomes and is seeking expressions of interest for parent workshops around the theme of 'Engaging Parents in Learning'.

Debra Bourne - Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching

The photographs attached are of Middle School students engaging in hands on learning: examining Australian pennies, creating 'Mystery Boxes' of sources relating to their own lives, and also students visiting the College's World War I Commemorative Gardens to learn about site studies and the significance of them.

Year 12 students are working hard in class and organising their revision notes ahead of future exams. They are also working diligently in preparing their Major Projects for HSIE, namely the Society and Culture PIP and History Extension major essay.

Year 11 students across a range of HSIE subjects have made a very positive start to their Preliminary courses and are becoming well versed in their new syllabuses.

Year 10 History students are sitting their source analysis test in class this week, where they will show their ability to pick apart historical sources and show what can be learned about the past.

Year 9 Geography students are researching biomes and learning about the nature of the physical environment and how humans might interact with this in positive and negative ways.

Year 8 History students have been learning about time and sources and very soon will access the College archives to find out more about our rich history as a community.

Year 7 Geography have been learning about important places and in their integrated learning environment, Connect, will soon investigate the suburb they live in and what makes it such a liveable place.

Our students in their electives have been learning many interesting things across Elective History and Commerce and are enjoying the opportunity to study in areas outside the mandatory curriculum.

Nathan East - HSIE Coordinator

The students involved in the Competition included:

• Bianca R
• Chelsea P
• Layla E
• Olivia L
• Barbara F
• Leah A
• Breana J
• Ashley S
• Siena H
• Arden D
• Wissam M
• Jessica N
• Brianna C
• Ashley E
• Kitiana M

Breana J and Arden D wrote the following reflection on their experience with the Competition:

Breana J: The Mock Trial Competition took place in Terms 2-3 and was meant to go over many weeks like your normal debating or MISA competition would. Due to COVID restrictions, the College hosted an internal competition between Miss Iler’s Year 11 Mock Trial Team and Mr Muller’s Year 10 Mediation Team.

Although we didn’t get to compete against other schools, I speak for all the girls when I say we still had a great time and enjoyed this experience. As someone who studied Legal Studies, the first-hand application of the courtroom was extremely beneficial to my understanding and allowed for a different type of learning. It helped me develop my confidence and speaking skills which I can use outside of class. It is definitely something that I would recommend for any student interested or anyone who just wants to have a go.

Arden D: However, you do not have to be a Legal Studies student to participate in the Mock Trial Competition and it is now open to Year 10 students. I am definitely not a legal based student, but after being randomly volunteered I found that I really enjoyed the experience. I was given the role of witness and doing this allowed me to challenge and improve my improvisation skills whilst being cross-examined by the other team. It was also a fun way for me to do something different from the subjects I did weekly. I highly recommend taking on this experience, not just because of the badge but because you can grow your skill set even if you are not a legal student. 

The Law Society of NSW’s Mock Trial and Mock Mediation competitions have commenced this week and each of our teams for 2021 are busily preparing for Round 1. We wish the girls all the best in this year’s competition.

Jason Muller and Cassandra Iler - HSIE Faculty

Here are the reflections of two Year 7 students:

This year has started off really good and even though there were a few scary things, Reflection Day really helped me get to know other people in my year group and helped me express myself better. I felt very comfortable and very at home with everyone there. Every girl that I got a chance to meet made me more open. You don't realise how many people are like you until you talk to them. I'm really thankful that the teachers were able to talk to us and give us a better understanding of this school. I’m very happy and thankful to become a St Pat’s girl and be a part of this community. Thank you
Mia C - Year 7 Student

On reflection day I loved the way we got to work in groups and use our creativity whilst decorating jars to use as candle holders. It was lovely how we got treated to some delicious Subway for lunch and had an opportunity to talk to new people. I found learning the prayers was intriguing and helped teach me about the Catholic traditions. It was a very enjoyable experience and I had a lot of fun!
Charlotte J - Year 7 Student

Year 7 is to be commended for their active engagement in their Reflection Day.

Angelo Gattone – Mission Coordinator

If any parents, grandparents or friends of the College would like to donate squares, please drop them off to the front office. We knit in garter stitch, 4mm needles casting on 50 stitches.

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher

Year 10, 11, 12 Basketball
Christabelle A, Piper A, Tara G, Amelia M, Hannah P, Katarina S, Evana S, Tavara S, Ilori P and Nimrath D. Coach Mrs Nash.

Year 10, 11, 12 Oztag
Sophie A, Darcy E, Eden G, Carrera K, Amelia P, Olivia Z, Amelia B, Grace G, Olivia H, Kria K, Sarah P, Madison M and Sophia S. Coach Mr Ashkar.

Year 7, 8, 9 Volleyball
Lofia A, Isabella K, Nyala R, Meghan W, Sienna T, Fale’ofa A, Fatima A, Gabrielle V and Charlie C. Coach Mrs Pereira.

Year 7, 8, 9 Indoor Cricket
Isabelle S, Shreya M, Jordana N, Laura Z, Amelia C, Mackenzie H, Gabriella A, Sophie V and Piper M. Coaches Mr Baca and Mr Lord.

Year 7, 8, 9 Hockey
Lillian M, Georgia O, Valentina V, Mia F, Siena B, Maiya C, Jordanne M, Sianna F, Peta D, Tamanna M, Myah B, Stephanie E, Angelina B, Sarah M and Hannah Y. Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Our 2021 carnival didn’t quite look or sound like our ‘normal’ carnivals as we took the precaution of sitting the students in Year groups rather than House groups and made the decision that singing and chanting would not be part of the carnival this year due to the guidelines recommended by NSW Health. In true St Patrick’s fashion, the girls took these changes in their stride and continued to be loud, supportive and enthusiastic which allowed the competition in the pool remain the highest of quality.

There were some outstanding individual efforts throughout the day and it gives me great pleasure to announce the following girls as our 2021 Swimming Age Champions:

12 Years – Sophie P (Kenny)

13 Years – Olivia K (Kenny)

14 Years – Caitlin R (Lyons)

15 Years – Sianna F (Kenny)

16 Years – Ilori P (Chisholm)

17+ Years – Abbie H (Gilmore)

Our Overall Swimming Age Champion was Abbie H who was outstanding on the day by winning all of her events and amassing a total of 180 points for the Gilmore House. Well done Abbie.

We also ran our annual Aquathon events with College Sports Captain Hannah P sneaking in for the win, followed very closely by Abbie H in second and Laura Z in third.

Congratulations to Kenny House which was outstanding throughout the day and won the carnival quite convincingly over Lyons in second place, Gilmore in third and Chisholm in fourth.

I must also congratulate the girls who have now qualified as part of the College Swim Team that will compete at the Wollongong Diocesan Swimming Championships in March. The team will consist of Ava B, Annalise D, Sianna F, Ava H, Abbie H, Olivia K, Sandrine M, Sophie P, Ilori P, Alana P, Cara P, Hannah P, Caitlin R, Isabelle S, Yuhan W, Hannah W, Amy Y and Laura Z.

A big thanks must go to all the staff and students who assisted before, during and after the event. Your support and assistance is greatly appreciated.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

The Recreational Activities Program involves students rotating through a number of designated activities that are assigned specifically to each year group. The activities have been designated using a tiered system based on the perceived intensity level of the activity. Throughout the year, each student participates in a variety of activities considered low intensity, moderate intensity and high intensity. There are a number of compulsory activities where students are required to have an 80% participation rate in order to meet the outcomes of the program. 

The Cheer Program is coming along very nicely! The rock climbing wall is proving to be a hit with the girls. Cricket skills are on the improve and some modified football games. Here are some snapshots of these activities.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Unfortunately, their day came to an early end when they came up against an extremely strong St Mary’s team in the second round.  The girls were very competitive against the St Mary’s team who eventually went on to lose narrowly in the final against Holy Spirit. This result should give the girls a great deal of confidence heading into next year's tournament and have another 12 months of experience under their belt. A big thank you to Mr Gattone for managing the team on the day.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Spine Out magazine is a digital magazine for young adults aged 12 - 18 years (from the publishers of Good Reading Magazine), focusing on recreational reading and storytelling. Each month, Spine Out publishes a collection of book reviews from students across Australia, highlighting recently published novels and graphic novels. In the February / March edition of Spine Out, Gabrielle V. (Year 9) had her excellent review published by the magazine! Gabrielle reviewed Instant Karma by Marissa Meyer, a contemporary novel about a judgemental, impatient girl who wakes up one morning with the sudden ability to cast instant karma on those around her. 

You can read Gabrielle's review in Spine Out via the 'Magazines' link on the Library website. A digital copy of  book Instant Karma is available to loan on ePlatform (through 'eBooks and Audiobooks' on the Library website), and a physical copy will be available in the Library shortly.

Congratulations to Gabrielle! We have been advised we have another student in Year 9 who will have her review published in an upcoming edition of Spine Out also...so watch this space!

The College Library

There is a vast and varied network of support when building and practising efficient study skills. Making concise study notes at the end of each topic, and build a realistic timetable or organiser to make the most of your time. Keeping your parents/carers in the loop; they can't be understanding if they aren't aware of your workload and assessments. Your teachers are a great source of information: if you need clarification on the task or lesson content, they can't help you if you don't approach them for help.

The library is a great destination when you need assistance. The staff are available to help you locate material, clarify or check your referencing, or for any other queries.

The library receive your assessment tasks as they are finalised, allowing the library staff time to create Libguides (research guides) for each of your tasks. These are guides to help you get started on your assessment tasks and the link to these guides can be found on the Library page on the College Dashboard. The feedback the library receive regarding the Libguides is that they are very helpful in providing a springboard into the task. The guides may contain Database suggestions, some titles in the library collection, videos, podcasts, journal articles etc.

Please take advantage of the support networks available to you. We are equally invested in you achieving your very best.

The College Library

During Term 1 the Library is investigating the topic of Fake News – what it is, how to spot it and the different forms it may take. There will be a new instalment of 'Fake News' in the Library display windows each fortnight and you can test your knowledge with the quiz located on the Library homepage. There are prizes (real not fake) up for grabs too, so don’t miss out.

The College Library