You will have received correspondence that outlines the new regulations as communicated by the Premier on Wednesday and which come into effect next Monday. It will be wonderful to have assemblies once again and to have the girls interact with each other as they did in 2019. We need to continue to be mindful though that we are living in a pandemic and whilst the restrictions have started to ease, the pandemic continues to be very prevalent in our community. I urge you to continue with your vaccinations and to use some caution in the choices you make. If you present with symptoms, do not come to school and use a rapid antigen test to determine if you have contracted the virus. We must all remain vigilant in keeping ourselves and each other safe.

We are hosting three key events in the next few weeks. This Saturday, we will again host our Open Day. You may recall the time you brought your daughter to the College and the impact this day had on her as she was deciding which school she would attend for high school. Our staff and girls will all be ready to once again display what the College has to offer the Year 5 and 6 girls who will be visiting. If you would like to come along or bring a friend or family member, you are most welcome. The COVID restriction have meant we have had to adjust some of our activities, however, it will be a very interactive and engaging day for all our visitors.

Thursday 3 March is our International Women’s Day breakfast. Each year we welcome back some alumni to speak about what they have done since leaving the College and what impact St Pat’s has had on their growth and development. It is always a very inspiring morning. As an all-girls College, it is very important to celebrate the success of our women and provide those girls who are growing up with good role models they can watch and emulate. This year we have Mrs Monique Keogh and Ms Esther Adeyinka speaking. Both are wonderful women who will be very insightful and engaging. Please see the flyer attached to this edition.

The Emerald Gala Ball will be held on Saturday 19 March in The Cube at the Campbelltown Catholic Club. We have had many families and businesses donate generously for the silent auction and raffle prizes. The aim of the night is to raise funds for the scholarship fund. Many families access the scholarship fund when they experience hardship so that their daughter can continue in an all-girls learning environment. It is always a fabulous night with great food and great entertainment. COVID restrictions have now been lifted in hospitality venues, so we will be able to dance and have the best night. I urge you to buy a ticket for the night. I can assure you, you will not be disappointed. You may still like to donate an item or an experience that we can use to raise funds. All will be very gratefully received.

Finally, I would like to welcome Ms Ashleigh Young, our newest teacher. Ms Young replaces Mrs Boulatsakos and will be teaching RE and PDHPE. We also welcome back Mrs Tracey White, in a learning support role. I am sure you will give them both a warm welcome. Next Wednesday, we will be celebrating Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. Lent is a time for us to reflect, pray and prepare for Easter. I leave you with a prayer noting the start of this church season.

Gracious God today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days stretch before me and invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ's eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart. I ask this for the sake of your love.

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal

During the liturgy, ashes are placed on each person’s forehead. The ashes symbolise the dust from which God made us. As the ashes are applied, these words can be spoken: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." Alternatively, "Repent and believe in the Gospel" can be spoken. In this case, the ashes serve as a reminder of our grief, that we have sinned and caused division from God. We accept the ashes as a visible symbol of penance. Non-Christians are welcome to receive the ashes which are made from blessed palm branches, taken from the previous year's Palm Sunday Mass.

Lent is meant to be a “spiritual battle” for Catholics to assess their relationship with God and find ways to deepen this connection. As the third Lent in a row under the cloud of a pandemic, this is more important now than ever. Restrictions have impacted our routines and rituals and this Lent offers a more optimistic outlook as we head towards Easter. To experience a fruitful and spiritually rewarding Lent, Catholics are encouraged to go to Mass more often, attend confession, participate in Adoration of the Eucharist, pray the Rosary, pray for people in need, and read the Bible. The National Catholic Register suggests some other practical ways to enrich our Lenten experience. These include:

‘Complete a Work of Mercy.Select a specific spiritual and/or corporal work of mercy. “What pain or suffering are you able to offer for the salvation of souls today? Don’t let your suffering go to waste,” counsels Father Looney. He suggests different ways to bring both into practice starting in Lent in his book A Lenten Journey With Mother Mary. “Do you know someone who is dying? Go and visit that person. Make a meal for the person’s family. Bring words of comfort. Do you know someone who has experienced loss? Send to that person a text message or a card to let him know you are thinking of him. How might you bring relief to someone who is sick? Through words or a kind gesture? Cooking a meal? Running an errand? You can provide the relief someone needs.”’

Louise Barry - Religious Studies Coordinator

On Friday 18 February the Year 7 girls gathered in the MSC to experience their first Reflection Day at St Patrick’s College. The Reflection Day Program aims to build up the year group’s cohesion and to introduce them to our College’s values and prayer life.

In the morning session, five Year 11 girls spoke to Year 7 about their memories of starting high school at St Pat’s and, through the use of symbols, they talked about and shared the many experiences and learnings they have had so far along their St Pat’s journey. Thanks is extended to Abbey C, Mia C, Jeanne O, Monique R, and Emily R for their input from which the Year 7 girls gained many insights. For the first time, some Year 11 students were invited to help facilitate the small group activities and their presence on the day was much appreciated by the Year 7 girls. A sincere vote of thanks is extended to Abbey C, Georgia C, Merinda F, Monique R, Emily R, and Prapti S who paired up to be small group leaders for three of the groups. These Year 11 girls engaged well with the small groups they led and did a marvellous job in executing their role as small group facilitators. Through a variety of activities, the Year 7 girls reflected on their own values, Gospel values, and our Benedictine values. They also spent time in prayer and meditation.

These are some of the comments the Year 7 girls wrote when they were asked to evaluate their Reflection Day:

“I enjoyed all of the day’s activities as they taught me more about others as well as myself, and I learnt some good lessons.” (Paige C)

“I enjoyed the Reflection Day because we got to listen to other people’s stories, and it was really good meeting new people at the same time.” (Patressa A)

“The meditation was calming, the small groups were fun, and the jar artwork helped me find what I value most.” (Maddison D)

“I feel more open towards others, I feel more comfortable around my friends, and I understand what reflecting means.” (Ella K)

“Prayer and meditation were my favourite activities because they gave me time to really reflect on this year and think of all the things I have done.” (Gabriella V)

A big thank you is also extended to the Year 7 Pastoral Team who helped to facilitate the day: Emma Randell, Kirrily Cousins, Abbey Stapley, Michelle Parker, Tanya Robertson, Danielle Wilson, and Christine Lahood.

Angelo Gattone - Mission Coordinator

They're thoroughly enjoying experimenting with a range of materials and techniques, having already completed a mixed media chalk pastel and ink drawing. Now the class is using wire, hot glue, paper and acetate sheets to created three-dimensional bugs. The students are building their artmaking skills and their confidence, which is great to see. 

Louise Glase - CAPA Teacher/Year 10 Coordinator

Over the past two weeks, class 10.2 has competed in rounds one, two and three of SEPEP! In the first round, held on the 16th, the class played a school favourite, binball! Rounds two and three were held on the 21st, where the class played soccer and oz-tag.

In an interview with Communications Officer, Tamanna M, after being asked about the participation of the class, she said: “The enthusiasm of all the girls is great and enhances everybody’s gameplay, you know, being surrounded by support.”

Board Member, Ava H, says, “I'm really excited about SEPEP, although I have only been able to participate in the first round, it was super fun to get to play with new people I wouldn't have normally been on a team with.”

Board Member Emma G states: “My team has been really good, as we are a shortened team with only four people, when one person is away it brings us down to three, we worked really hard, and although we didn't win any of the binball games, it was really nice to see us all trying our hardest.”

Winning Teams
Round One: Team 3 & Team 2
Round Two: Team 4 & Team 1
Round Three: Team 2 & Team 4
Best and Fairest
Round One: Paris K & Laycie A
Round Two: Fale’ofa A & Sarah D
Round Three: Emily T & Keesha D

10.2 have so far, worked hard and enjoyed the first three SEPEP rounds. The class is looking forward to continuing the games, developing skills as well as gaining further achievements!

Writers: Samantha S and Maira K
Photographer: Emily T

We based our SEPEP around the combination of netball and soccer called speedball. The reason for doing so was because it would allow the participants playing speedball to have a fair go at playing a sport they like and are good at. This encourages participation within all of the students giving everyone a fair playing field. The girls have been given all of the control and responsibility to take part in setting up each game, rest time, main roles/duties and making rules in order for the games to be commended.

Class 10.1 has had 2 rounds of speedball so far. We have had roles assigned to each student as either a score keeper, referee, board member, coach or marketing executive. Class 10.1’s first round/practice lesson had begun with a rocky start, we were unorganised and struggled with representations for the games without guidance. 

Eventually we got the hang of the game and learned to manage our time wisely through the lessons which helped us with the next lesson. We had time for breaks and cooling off periods while also having time at the end of the game to communicate between the class and our teammates to help make the next round easier. The girls encouraged and uplifted each other throughout all of the rounds including the opponents creating a safe and fun environment for everyone involved which helped the team players perform and improve as individuals and teammates better overall. 

Mariam B - Year 10 PDHPE Student

Each year group met with their Academic Care team. This team includes their Year Coordinator, as well as two members of the KLA team. The KLA team includes the Subject Coordinators (KLA Coordinators). The Coordinators took each year group through the important information needed for successful completion of the assessment program for each year group.

Purpose of school-based assessment
Although there are many different assessment types throughout the curriculum, the fundamental purpose of assessment is to establish where learners are in their learning at the time of assessment. Assessment is the opportunity for students to show what they know and what they can do.

Students are assessed in lots of ways throughout their academic program. For example, task types include formal examinations, performances, projects, topic tests, collaborative activities and practical work.

Assessment handbooks

The booklets issued to students outlined the formal assessment program for each course. These are the tasks that are common to the whole cohort. The rigour around the school based assessment program increases as students progress throughout their schooling. For example, assessment for students beginning their Stage 5 courses informs decision making for grades allocated for the Record of School Achievement (RoSA) and the Year 12 school based assessment program contributes towards a student’s HSC mark.

The Assessment handbooks also outline policies related to the submission of work and they explain the actions students should take if they require special consideration. Each year’s Assessment Handbook is available from the Library Services website - https://library.saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au/assessment. Students and families will also find links to the Assessment Calendars and links to documents related to special consideration (Illness and Misadventure appeal) processes. 

In Week 9 (22 March) the College is hosting our Term 1 Parent Forum and this will provide an opportunity to hear about assessment processes that are underway in the College as well as ask any questions or speak with the College leadership team.

Amadee writes:

I am studying a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) with a Diploma in Professional Engineering Practice at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS). A few weeks ago, I was grateful to have received notice that I was awarded the Women in Engineering and IT Faculty Scholarship for 2022 along with a few other girls. This scholarship recognises our passion as young women for STEM-related studies (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). The scholarship was established with the goal of increasing the participation of women in Engineering and IT as a non-traditional area of study. The scholarship provides financial support that will assist with tuition fees with a $10,000 study grant.

For me personally, I am excited to have an opportunity to gain experiences in various leadership roles to encourage younger students to pursue STEM. The professional development opportunities will assist with my career through the help of mentors and the ability to connect with different industries and companies.

I wanted to let my teachers know because their support over the years has paid off and I am forever grateful to them. 

Congratulations to Amadee Thotawatta. We are honoured to have played a part in her school education and we look forward to learning of all her successes.

Debra Bourne - Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching.

Throughout Years 10, 11 and 12, your daughter will have a number of opportunities to sit the NESA online tests, receive feedback on her progress and access support to reach the minimum standards.

The first round of tests for our Senior School students will take place in Week 7 of Term 1. Tests will be scheduled in Reading, Writing and Numeracy. There will be further test opportunities scheduled later in the year and your daughter will be advised of these test dates in advance.

An information package will be provided to your daughter in the coming weeks. It explains what the tests involve, what she can expect and how she can best prepare for the tests. We encourage you to read this information together and, for more information, visit the NESA website:

http://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/11-12/hsc/hsc-minimum-standard

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Mrs Claire McGillicuddy via the College.

Once again, the swimming carnival revealed a wealth of swimming talent with some extremely fast times being recorded throughout the day. It is amazing to watch these talented athletes gliding effortlessly through the water with such precision, purpose and finesse.

Our top performing students (Age Champions) on the day were:

12 Years – Indianah P (Lyons)

13 Years – Alexandra N (Chisholm)

14 Years Joint Champions - Olivia K (Kenny) / Hannah W (Lyons)

15 Years – Caitlin R (Lyons)

16 Years – Sianna F (Kenny)

17+ Years – Abbie H (Gilmore)

Overall Age Champion – Caitlin R

The race to be Overall Age Champion was extremely tight with Caitlin R prevailing over Abbie H and Alexandra N by 4 points.

As well as the competitive races, we also had our novelty events and aquathon which provided all students the opportunity to be involved in the day and gain valuable house points.

The aquathon was hotly contested with Ilori P taking out first place, Caitlin R in second and Amy Y in third.

2022 was officially the closest result we have ever had in relation to the champion house. A massive congratulations must go to the Lyons house on winning the carnival, but it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the outstanding effort from the Kenny house who pushed Lyons all day. Gilmore finished in third place, with Chisholm close behind in fourth.

A massive thank you to all staff, student and spectators for your involvement and engagement throughout the day.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

It was a very successful campaign for the girls finishing in equal 3^rd place. The girls won their first-round game against St John’s, Nowra, which put them into the quarterfinals where they played a strong St Benedict’s team. The scores were equal after the singles but unfortunately the girls went down in the doubles. It was a fun day and we are very proud of the girls that played. A big thanks to Mr Gattone who managed the team on the day.

Report by Shreya M - Tennis Team Captain

Year 7/8/9 Indoor Cricket

Lily S, Shreya M, Isabelle S, Hannah M, Sophie V, Georgia D, Annalise E, Jordana N, Eliza T, Aurora F, Charlize F and Amelia C. Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Year 7/8/9 Volleyball

Sophia W, Nyala R, Lofia A, Deziah P, Isabella K, Olivia L, Mahlia L, Valentina S and Patressa A. Coach Mrs Pereira.

Year 10/11/12 Oz Tag Division 1Darcy E, Aaliyah B, Amelia P, Sophie A, Keesha D, Eden G, Madison M, Olivia H, Olivia Z, Mirae Q, Mia F and Ava H. Coach Mr Ashcroft.

Year 10/11/12 Oz Tag Division 2

Sophia S, Lara M, Grace G, Amy Y, Amelia B, Annalise D, Carrera K, Abby D, Mia L, Logan L, Summer D and Charlie C. Coach Mr Baca & Ms Wallin.

Year 10/11/12 Basketball

Katarina S, Tavara S, Tara G, Amelia M, Helen T, Ilori P, Sianna F, Jacqueline C, Siena B, Breanna R and Angelina H. Coach Mrs Nash.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

There was a display in the Library windows featuring our favourite fictional duos, some peculiar pairs from nature, famous twins, tutu trivia and more. 

Students could double the fun by participating in the Two’s Day quiz on the Library homepage. The first 22 students to answer all the questions correctly were awarded a sweet Two’s Day inspired treat.

The College Library

This website will help you develop essential skills for academic success. There are units of work on improving time management skills, how to study, research skills, summarising, technology use, brain and memory and much more. Everything you need to know about becoming a more powerful learner and improving your marks at school can be found on this site. 

You will also see lots of useful handouts, grids and planners at the bottom of the THINGS TO PRINT page.

To access the handbook, go to www.studysamurailibrary.com and parents can login with these details:

username:  saintpatricks

password:  21success

Students are able to login by accessing the Library Services Website - https://library.saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au/study-samurai-library

The College Library

Should you type or handwrite study notes?

If the exam will be handwritten, students are better to handwrite study notes. This creates muscle memory and helps student practice their handwriting skills. However, many students prefer to type their study notes as it is so much easier to organise the information. If students choose to type, when they are learning their notes they need to read a section, see what they can write down without looking then check and see if they were correct. This will help them practise their handwriting skills whilst committing the information to memory.

My child doesn’t seem to know how to study. What should they be doing?

Many students believe that studying for a test means reading their notes over and over. This is however, the slowest and most ineffective method of studying. Effective studying involves three steps.The first is making study notes or summaries on what they have been learning. The second is to learn the notes by testing themselves over and over on the information to be retained. The last step is to do as much practice as possible – the wider the range of questions they can do, preferably under time constraints, the better they will be prepared. Remember that we all learn in different ways so there is scope to allow students to use techniques that suit their individual learning style, such as recording notes to listen to.

How can students get more organised?

The first step is to identify which area of organisation you want to target. Books, computer files, locker, diary, desk, folders…the list is endless. There is no point telling a student ‘you need to be more organised’. Instead, identify an area where there could be improvement. Then, with your child, work out specific strategies to implement in order to address this issue. Once this issue is under control, then move onto the next problem.

What time should students go to bed?

Although it varies, most students need at least eight hours of sleep each night. Therefore, work backwards, allow an hour or so for students to get ready for bed and fall asleep, then work backwards to the time they need to get up for school. Have students pay attention to how they feel in the morning – they may need less or more sleep than the average.

How can I get my student motivated to do their work?

There is no quick or easy fix for lack of motivation. There are quite a number of strategies to try, but they all take time and effort and persistence.

The College Library

So how do you access it? It's easy to get started, just follow these instructions:

For eBooks:

On your laptop or tablet open https://stpatricksnsw.wheelers.co on your browser

Sign in using your school username and log in details

Browse and download ebooks....happy reading!

For Audiobooks:

Download the ePlatform by Wheelers app on your mobile phone

Find St Patrick's College Campbelltown, under 'Find my Library'

Log in using your school name and log in details

Browse and download audiobooks....happy listening!

Current titles now available include:

As Far as You'll Take Me by Phil Stamper

Penguin Bloom by Chris Kunz

Amazing Women by Lucy Beeovr

You Have a Matchby Emma Lord

Living the Confidence Codeby Katty Kay

If you have trouble downloading the ePlatform app just contact Library staff for help!

The College Library

We welcome Year 5 girls from ALL primary schools to visit the College Campus. Students get to experience College life in an all-girls' environment. They'll meet the teachers and students and get to participate in high school lessons.

THURSDAY 10 MARCH 2022 - 9am to 11am

Registrations are essential. Book your spot here!

This month on SchoolTV - Understanding Adolescence

Adolescence is the transitional stage of development that is usually associated with the teenage years. In 2018, the Australian Curriculum Assessment Authority redefined adolescence as affecting young people aged between 10-24 years. During this time, they experience rapid physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth which affects how teenagers feel, think, make decisions and interact with the world around them.

During adolescence, a child's brain can be considered as being “under-construction”. The rate at which this progresses will vary depending on the individual and also their gender. As a result, some parents may view adolescence as stressful or difficult. However, it does not need to be. Setting boundaries, implementing consistent monitoring and maintaining a strong and loving connection will help families adjust during this time.

It is also an important time to keep the communication lines open through clear and age appropriate conversations. Speak openly about changes that they are experiencing and be conscious of their mental health as many of the conditions people confront in adulthood, can begin to manifest in adolescence.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers can learn how to guide and best support their young person as they transition through adolescence. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to this month's edition https://saintpatricks.nsw.schooltv.me/newsletter/understanding-adolescence

Get to know our guest speakers:

Esther Adeyinka (Class of 2014): Esther is a Solicitor at Herbert Smith Freehills currently working in Private Equity and Venture Capital. She advises the NSW Regional Director of the Department of Home Affairs as part of the NSW Youth Reference Group and sits as a Youth Member on the Multicultural NSW Advisory Board. Esther also owns SHADIE BY EA, a small business which provides essentials for women of all skin tones and sizes.

Monique Keogh (Class of 1990): Monique is known as one of Campbelltown's most community-focused females, and was recognised as Local Woman of the Year in 2020. She is currently working in Human Resources with Sydney Water, where she has been for the past eight years. Monique was the founding President for the College Alumni Association in 2009 and in addition, started Campbelltown Thunder Netball Club in 2016 with her daughters, who are also St Patrick’s Alumnae.