Over the last two weeks the College and girls in Years 7 and 9 have been busy with NAPLAN. This has been an extraordinary event to hold as all the girls have done the exam online and with that comes some anxiety and apprehension in this new form. They have been very well supported and encouraged by Mrs Claire McGillicuddy, Mr Ben Robson and Mrs Philomena Camilleri. I am very grateful for the care and exceptional preparation they have each devoted to this event so that the girls would be ready. I hope your daughter found it to be a good experience.

Last year, we began work on a Parent-College Partnership framework. It became evident that we often spoke of our partnership with parents, and we shared the importance of this partnership in bringing about the best for the girls, however, we hadn’t created any documents or material that would represent this mutually respectful and collaborative relationship. The Parent-College Partnership framework was created to represent our working relationship and how we can work to ensure it always brings out the best for all parties.  I have included this document with this edition for you to view and comment on. It has been through the College Board for their comment and now  I am seeking your response and feedback before it moves out of draft. Please feel free to send through your responses to Jennie Zanardo - jzanardo@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au who will pass them on to me. I would like to finalise this document over the coming weeks and then be ready to launch this in Term 3. I appreciate your consideration of this.

I will be taking enrichment leave from 30 May to the end of the term this year. This is the leave that had been planned last year but was rescinded as we had gone into lockdown due to COVID. Mrs Karen Wright will kindly take on the role of Acting Principal and Mr Paul Ashkar will be Acting Assistant Principal Students. Ms Tabitha Brown will be the Acting Year 9 Coordinator for that period of time. I am sure you will be well supported in my absence.

I will leave you with a reflection where Christ beckons us to show respect to each other,

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal

This is not an easy peace I would give you, my children.
It cost me the cross to reconcile you to my Father.
You must humble yourself before each other, listen to each other’s pain,
Share your brother’s burden,
Seek his forgiveness,
If you would really be reconciled in my love and my way.

Cecil Kerr, The Way of Peace

This shared experience was well needed and an insightful outlet for reflection. As a year group, we were able to connect, share and bond through various reflective activities like positive affirmations and small group discussions. This outside of school experience strengthened our cohort's community spirit and was an amazing opportunity to recharge both mentally and spiritually. One of the highlights of this retreat was our collective participation in the final liturgy especially when singing ‘Shout to the Lord’ where we grew closer with our peers. Overall, Year 12 retreat was an eye-opening experience that showed us the need for togetherness and allowed us to learn more about ourselves and others.

Annabelle M & Tavara S - Year 12 Students

The logistics involved in administering the assessment is not insignificant. In 2022, the NAPLAN testing was coordinated by Mrs Claire McGillicuddy. The test format is online and therefore, the IT Team, under the stewardship of Mr Ben Robson, are integral as 130 or so computers simultaneously connect to ACARA's test servers via our College network in each session. Each test involves a number of invigilators who we draw from our teaching staff. The scheduling requires a level of mental dexterity by our Administration Coordinator, Mr Camilleri, who works closely with Mrs McGillicuddy to ensure that teachers, rooming and students coincide at the right times. Ms Randell, Year 7 Coordinator, and Mr Ashkar, Year 9 Coordinator, worked tirelessly throughout the examinations, checking on students, and making sure they were well cared for and where they needed to be.

Our special provisions were overseen by Mrs Camilleri from the Learning Enhancement team. Special provisions (or adjustments) support inclusive testing so all students with diverse capabilities, learning needs and functional abilities are able to participate in the national assessment program.

Our parents and carers too, are acknowledged. Formal examinations can trigger anxiety for students, and parents/carers have an essential role in helping their daughters focus on doing their best. Our students stepped up to the challenges of online examinations by participating in the practice tests and ensuring that their laptops were ready for the task ahead. They were punctual and we are proud of the way in which they conducted themselves throughout the formal testing period.

NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills. Students sit assessments in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. Questions assess content linked to the Australian Curriculum in English and Mathematics. Each test is between 40 and 65 minutes in length.

This week, the NAPLAN catchup tests have continued, to ensure all students have had the opportunity to participate. The NAPLAN testing period concludes today (20 May) and results are expected some time in August.

2022 is a significant year for the National Assessment Program because for the first time, all students participating complete the tests online. While St Patrick’s College had transitioned to online tests in 2019, this year, St Patrick's Years 7 and 9 were part of the 1.2 million students who took part in the online testing across 9,500 schools throughout Australiaⁱⁱ. ACARA CEO, David de Carvalho said that “NAPLAN online is a better, more precise assessment that is more engaging for students”.

Earlier this year, Australia’s Education Ministers announced that NAPLAN will move from May to March in 2023ⁱⁱⁱ. Moving NAPLAN into Term 1 means results and information will be available earlier in the year so they can be used to inform teaching and learning programs. 

Debra Bourne - Assistant Principal, Learning and Teaching

i ACARA (2016) National Assessment Program

ii ACARA (9 May 2022) Media Release

iii ACARA (16 March 2022) Media Release

Elective Japanese classes in Years 9, 10 and 12, with the help and guidance of Mrs Cousins, celebrated this day with a cooking experience. Years 10 and 12 students were instructed in Japanese on what and how to cook and Year 9 students used the vocabulary they have learnt in class to make two different dishes.

Students made “Gyōza” pork dumplings and “Oyakudon”, a chicken, egg and onion dish on a bowl of rice. These foods are simple and delicious and some of Japan’s comforting Autumn foods. While making the food and cooking, students were able to put into practice the language skills they had developed and enjoy a different learning experience outside of the classroom.

We look forward to sharing more experiences with our College community of the activities students do in learning Japanese.

Mr Julian Nash - LOTE Coordinator

On 5 May, 10 students from Years 7, 8, 9 and 11 took part in the Burra Bamal Dance incursion held at St Patrick's College. Aroha from NAISDA Dance College led the workshop taking students through a range of movement activities in contemporary Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance. 

Burra Bamal is an annual program presented in partnership with Campbelltown Arts Centre and NAISDA Dance College. The multi-stage program nurtures professional dance pathways and cultural knowledge for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

Students who participate in the school workshop are invited to apply for the 2022 mentorship, an intensive dance project for up to 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Years 9 – 11 with an interest in dance. The mentorship includes workshops, performances on country visits and a three-day residency at NAISDA Dance College in Gosford. 

It was a wonderful experience, with many of the girls stating “I wish I could do this workshop all day!”. Students will use the material taught from Aroha as they work together and plan for their NAIDOC assembly later in Term 2.

Emma Randell - CAPA Teacher/Year 7 Coordinator

Two of our members, Kaitlyn and Laiba of Year 9, interviewed Sr Kerry and Ms Edwards as part of their entry for the National History Challenge. The girls are researching the 1816 Appin Massacre, a government sanctioned massacre of at least 14 local Dharawal people. The theme of this year’s National History Challenge is ‘Causes and Consequences’ and Kaitlyn and Laiba will use archival material to assess the causes, but conducted the interview to gain insight into the long term effects of this massacre on the Dharawal people. This includes the way in which the massacre is commemorated as well as the trans-generational trauma of the event.

It was a privilege to get these insights from Sr Kerry and Ms Edwards and we thank them for their eagerness to help the students. On behalf of the College, we also presented Sr Kerry with a special gift for her recent 80th Birthday.

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher

Georgia D and Charlotte D spoke at Assembly on Tuesday introducing a photo slideshow video charting the history of the Knitting Group going back to its formation in 2006. This video was intended to be played last year for a special 15th celebration event that had to be cancelled due to lockdown. It was good to look back at all the girls and volunteers over the years who have contributed.

We were also able to donate several bags of completed blankets, scarves and baby items to St John’s Parish, Campbelltown, who are organising a container of goods to go to Tonga after its recent natural disaster. Thanks to Isabelle S, Emily M and Katherine W  of Year 10 for packing these items. The blankets all have our ‘Handmade with love by St Patrick’s Knitting Group’ label sewn on. 

If any parents or grandparents wish to knit squares for our group, our square size is 50 stitches in garter stitch (4mm needle/ size 8). 

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher

Mr Myer has been teaching the guitar for many years across various schools in Sydney and runs his own business ‘Ultimate Guitar Academy’ in Smeaton Grange.  This is the website for Ultimate Guitar Academy:  https://www.ultimateguitaracademy.com/

If you would like your daughter to learn how to play the guitar from a professional guitar Music tutor, please email Mrs Singles vsingles@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au for an information letter about our College instrumental tuition program and for prices of private (one on one) and group lessons.

For more information or any questions on guitar lessons, please send an email inquiry to Mr Daniel Myer at: daniel@ultimateguitaracademy.com

Vanessa Singles - Music Teacher

Year 10/11/12 Indoor Cricket

Merinda F, Breanna R, Emily H, Amelia M, Faith R, Monique Vella, Jade F, Grace B, Myah B, Renae L and Ciara C. Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Year 10/11/12 Soccer

Jordanne M, Savanna R, Siena B, Sianna F, Lillian M, Alannah A, Logan L, Angelina H, Mia L, Sophie A, Gabriella V, Tamika H, Carerra K, Dakota L and Charlotte T. Coach Mr Ashkar.

Year 11/12 Netball

Amy Y, Krisa K, Lucy G, Jessica W, Annalise D, Katarina S, Grace G, Crishelle J, Eden G, Helen T, Monique G, Sophia S and Ilori P. Coach Mrs Pereira.

Year 7/8/9 Basketball Division 1

Patressa A, Lofia A, Eve F, Olivia L, Isabella K, Mahlia L, Jordana N, Deziah P and Nyala R. Coach Mrs Nash.

Year 7/8/9 Basketball Division 2

Chloe C, Phoebe F, Charlize F, Kaitlin K, Olivia J, Valentina S, Valentina V, Lexi V and Sarah V. Coach Mr Nash / Ms Wallin.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Katarina S on being selected in the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Open Netball Team that will contest the NSW Tri Series being held in September.

Sianna F on being selected in the Wollongong Diocesan Open Football team that will contest the NSWCCC Championships at the end of May.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Each participating school will be given 2 - 4 pages of the book to design and illustrate. Students will design and produce A3 landscape artworks for each book page. These artworks will then be exhibited in the shopping centre and go to a public vote. The winning artworks will be chosen and included in the children’s picture book.

Projected Timeline:

Students who would like to participate in this project are asked to register their interest by emailing Mrs Denford (sdenford@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au) in the library.

The College Library

Many people would be surprised to learn the College Library has a well-resourced picture book collection. Our picture books support students’ development of visual literacy and are often borrowed by senior students as related literature to their English prescribed texts. A quality picture book is not just for young children - the age range for picture books is widely considered to be 0 to 18 years. The illustrations in picture books are an integral part of the story and extend concepts and meanings in the plot (which is where they differ from traditional early childhood books). A student’s visual intelligence is developed by looking for the meaning in the pictures.

A recent addition to the College Library’s collection is a magnificent picture book titled Teacup, written by Australian author Rebecca Young and illustrated by Matt Ottley. It is the simple story of a young boy who must leave his home in search for a new one across the ocean. His sole possessions include a book, a blanket, a bottle, and a teacup filled with “some earth from where he used to play”. We do not know why he must leave, or why he is alone. References to refugees or forced displacement is never mentioned but is instead left to the reader to decide why and what the boy is fleeing. It is an allegory told through simple language and exquisite, sparse illustration. To the young reader, it is a story about a boy’s journey in a boat. To the older reader, it represents the heartache, uncertainty and trepidation of finding a new home…while never forgetting the one left behind.   

Teacup, along with all our other wonderful picture books, is available for loan and can be reserved by choosing ‘Search in the Library’ on the Library website.  

The College Library

We believe there is a perfect book for every student...and some of our students have found way more than one! Congratulations to the following students who have borrowed the most books (novels / graphic novels) so far this year. Here are our Top Ten:

Lilith M - 7A
Hannah B - 8D
Sophie M - 8E
Olivia N - 7A
Teara K - 7A
Abigail D - 8D
Jessica T - 9E
Libby M - 7C
Sarah G - 8D
Amelia B - 7D

Congratulations girls, and well done to everyone who has borrowed some of the great new titles we have in the Library collection this year. Remember Library staff are always available to help every student find their next great read...it's our favourite thing to do.

The College Library

CHECK REQUIREMENTS
So you have done all of your research, collected the information you will need and are ready to start writing your assignment. Before you begin, revisit the requirements, format and criteria for the task. Be very clear on what the assignment is asking you to do and any guidelines you have been given for the assignment. If you are unsure at all, check with your teacher. It can be good to have the assignment questions written on an index card that you keep next to you while working so you stay focused on answering the question and meeting the requirements.

PLAN A STRUCTURE
Your approach will vary depending on the style of your assignment (eg essay, speech, presentation or report) but regardless of this, unless it is explicitly given to you, you need to decide the structure of your assignment.  Have you determined the main points, the headings and sub-headings? Have you made sure you have gathered information about all parts of the question? Have you found any diagrams, images, photos, quotes needed to reinforce any points? Before you begin the writing, create a structure for your work listing all of the headings and sub-headings you will write about. Keep checking back with the criteria or requirements to ensure you are answering the assignment questions.

JUST START WRITING
The best thing to do if you have no idea how to begin your writing, is to just start writing. Now this may sound a little strange, but many students do not start writing because they want what they write to be perfect or ‘right’ the first time. Don’t worry whether your writing is up to standard at this stage. Instead concentrate on getting your ideas down onto paper or screen. Choose a section and start putting down ideas on the sorts of things you could include in that section.  The hardest part of any writing is starting. Once you start putting down ideas this generates other ideas and before you know it you have some text to work with. So even if you have no idea where to start just write or type ‘I don’t know what to include here’ and even writing this will get your subconscious thinking about what could be included.

USE YOUR NOTES
Once you have started, you can use your notes from the research you did to build your ideas and arguments for your assignment. This mean that you integrate your own thoughts and ideas with the research you have done using this to help support your ideas. Make sure that you reference correctly, this means that when you use materials you have researched, particularly quotes, you make it clear where this material has been sourced. It is easier to reference as you work, as this relieves the angst of trying to locate your sources at the end. You may find holes in your research as you progress and have to then do additional research about those areas.

BE CREATIVE
Unlike an essay, you generally have a bit more scope in how you present an assignment. Think about how you can bring the material to life for the reader. Photos (appropriately referenced) are a good start and sometimes diagrams, tables, examples, statistics or flowcharts may be appropriate. You might use lists, bullet points or colour to make the material more user-friendly. Your teacher will be reviewing many assignments on the same topic, do what you can to make yours stand out or have a unique angle.

REVIEW AND REVIEW AGAIN
Have you ever had that experience where you write something, leave it, come back the next day and read it again and find a whole heap of errors you didn’t see the first time? This is why it is important to space out your work on your assignment over a number of weeks and days. You need time to edit your work and you need space between edits. When you come back with a fresh eye, you will be able to look at your work from a different perspective and get ideas on what you could do to improve your work. As you review your work, look for spelling and grammar errors, possible repetition or unclear areas. Reading your work out loud is surprisingly a great way of locating errors or things that don’t make sense.

Access the Library’s APA referencing guide HERE.

The College Library

Week 5 (23 - 27 May) - Find a book at home that you would like to swap and bring it into the Library during Week 5. We will give you a Great Book Swap ticket for every book you bring in.

Week 6 and Week 7 (30 May - 6 June) - Bring your Great Book Swap tickets, or alternatively a gold coin donation, to the Library on your allocated day to choose your books.

The Great Book Swap will be held on the following days at lunch time in the library:

In addition to being able to swap a book, every student who participates will go into the draw to win a prize.

Thank you for your support of this fundraising activity that shows a commitment to social justice, and a belief in the vision that reading opens doors to future opportunities and choices.

You can also donate online here.

The College Library

📸 full photo album over on our Official Facebook Page:  https://www.facebook.com/saintpatrickscollegecampbelltown 

Haley Keays - Community Engagment Coordinator

It’s often said that communication is the key to a healthy relationship. While it might sound like tired advice, it’s a skill worth learning that will help us do better in all our relationships. As your child grows up, the way you communicate with them will need to change to reflect the new boundaries in your relationship created by their increasing independence. Discovering these new and different approaches to communicating effectively with one another will be a learning experience for you both. Effective communication with your teenager can help you both feel happier and more connected in your relationship, and more confident about having difficult conversations and resolving conflicts.

Psychologist Clare Rowe gives us some tips on creating quality and effective conversations that can help your teenager to open up about their feelings. 

I need to know more

Read our fact sheet about effective communication

Read these tips to start positive and constructive conversations with your teenager

While it’s normal for friendships to change over time, it can still be hard to adjust. We chatted to some young people in our ReachOut Online Community to understand how they manage changing friendships. Reading about other's stories and tips will help students feel less alone and more capable of coping with shifts in their own relationships. Their top four tips are:

1. Give it some time
2. Try to see the situation from a different point of view
3. Talk about how you’re feeling
4. Be open to meeting new people

Follow this link to read the full article.