Last week, the College experienced a critical incident. I would like to reassure you that the staff member is now back at work and life has returned to normal. I would like to share with you just how extraordinary your daughters/our girls were whilst we were trying to manage this incident. Whenever a school has a critical incident there is a strong focus on keeping the girls safe, keeping the staff safe and minimising the risks that could impact the students and staff. We had to lengthen the morning pastoral period so that emergency workers could enter the site, we had to evacuate the space where the incident occurred to provide both privacy for the person and protect others from becoming distressed, and we had to ensure there was a calm approach for all on the site. The staff were superb in reading the situation and moving to assist where they could see it was needed. The girls were superb as they followed instructions and patiently waited to be told their next move. Once they resumed the day, they were respectful of their teachers and each other and went about their day. They were a great credit to you and their community. Clearly, some contacted people outside the College to inform them that a situation was happening, but we are very grateful for the communication we received from parents and others to offer support and assistance. Your daughter’s safety is always our main priority so I am very grateful for the trust and confidence you extended to the College whilst you were waiting for the details to come through. Fortunately, these types of events are very rare and they can’t be practised with a drill, so thank you for your measured and reasonable approach to the morning.

Over the past few weeks, a number of applications for leave to be taken during term time have come across my desk for authorisation. NESA has a very narrow criteria for granting leave to students requesting leave during the term. It is their belief that with ten weeks of non-term time across the year, there is ample time for families to holiday and get away whilst avoiding the term time. I appreciate that these times always attract the full peak costs and at times they don’t coincide with milestone life events or celebrations. However, taking girls away during the term time disadvantages her in her studies and her learning. Assessments need to be completed and there will be significant class work that will be missed that isn’t always fully represented in a Canvas page. To receive a notification informing you that the leave is not granted does not stop families from still taking the leave, but I do ask that families give careful consideration to time away from school during the term. Whilst it isn’t always avoidable, I urge you to plan your trip during the breaks if possible.

Last night we learnt that Mr Muller won the VET Business Services Trainer of the Year in the Wollongong Diocese. Mr Muller teaches the VET course Business Services in addition to other HSIE classes. We extend to Mr Muller our congratulations in winning this prestigious award.

Finally, I would like you to keep in your prayers Mrs Bryannie. You would have received a letter from me recently explaining the situation. We hope that in time she will return to the College community where she will receive the support and kindness that will help her in her healing.

I leave you with an extract from A Canopy of Stars by Christopher Gleeson SJ..

Blessings,

Sue Lennox

In the hands of God

More than ever I find myself in the hands of God.

This is what I have wanted all my life from my youth.

But now there is a difference;

the initiative is entirely with God.

It is indeed a profound spiritual experience

to know and feel myself so totally in God’s hands.

This year we will unite around the theme, “Let Justice and Peace Flow”. The prophet Amos cries out, “But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!” (Amos 5: 24), and so we are called to join the river of justice and peace, to take up climate and ecological justice, and to speak out with and for communities most impacted by climate injustice and the loss of biodiversity.

“A mighty river” is the symbol chosen to go with this theme, representing biodiversity at risk. The urgency grows and we must make visible peace with Earth and on Earth, at the same time that justice calls us to repentance and a change of attitude and actions. When we join the river of justice and peace together with others, it creates hope instead of despair.

We are invited to join the river of justice and peace on behalf of all creation and to converge our individual identities, of name, family or faith community, in this greater movement for justice, just like tributaries come together to form a mighty river.  

Our individual actions during the Season of Creation are important. Celebrating creation, participating in cleanups, planting trees and reducing our carbon footprint are some of the immediate actions we can take.

Members of our Laudato Si’ Social Justice Group have already been working on implementing change and one area of action thus far in 2023 has been the planting of trees. Earlier this month our students planted bush tucker plants in Yandelora, our Reconciliation Garden. These were provided by Campbelltown Council as we registered for Schools Tree Day. Photos of our committed students are shown below. We also participated in a Wild Koala Day initiative during May this year, when students ranging from Year 7 to Year 12 volunteered an hour of their time on Sunday to help plant trees as part of a corridor for local Koalas. The location of the planting was Cook Reserve in Ruse and was organised by Campbelltown Council.

Louise Barry - Religious Studies Coordinator.

The Year 8 Reflection Day proved to be a resounding success, as it united our grade through a series of activities that promoted growth and solidarity. Through engaging in games, discussions, and small group talks, we were able to foster deeper connections and empathise with one another's personal stories. The meditation session taught us valuable mindfulness techniques, which helped us to stay present and enhance our relationships. One-on-one conversations with unfamiliar faces encouraged us to step out of our comfort zones and embrace diversity, while the whisper challenge brought us all together in laughter and joy. Creating personal prayers deepened our spiritual connection and faith. Overall, the day was a journey of self-discovery and growth that left a lasting impact on all of us, strengthening our bonds as friends and classmates and emphasising the importance of empathy, understanding, and creating a supportive community. -Harshpreet S

Year 8 Reflection Day had a beneficial impact on the Year 8 cohort. The day provided us with opportunities to grow closer as a community and strengthen the individual bonds that we have through interactive icebreaker activities, physical conversations with others, and the funniest activity of all, the whisper challenge. We were provided with occasions to step out of our comfort zones, share with others through small group discussions, participate in drama scenarios, and overall develop a deeper understanding of our faith. The meditation session allowed us to reflect on our personal spirituality and further our relationship with God. Collectively the day was a time of spiritual awakening and an opportunity for our grade to expand and grow the relationships we have with one another. Thank you to all the teachers for the efforts they put in to create a valuable and entertaining day for us all. - Olivia P

Joel Duval - Mission Coordinator

Congratulations to the following student leaders who were commissioned and we wish you well as you undertake these important roles within the College, and lead with grace.

COLLEGE CAPTAIN – Gabrielle V

BENEDICT CAPTAIN – Abigail B

SCHOLASTICA CAPTAIN – Ava C

COMMUNITY LEADER – Meghan W

CAPA LEADER – Myah B

SPORTS LEADER – Mirae Q

Sue Lennox - College Principal

The week started off with a variety of challenges in Science lessons across all cohorts. Students designed catapults, constructed gravity defying toothpick towers, created the biggest bubble in the Bubbleology competition and made "Oobleck" a non-Newtonian fluid.

During lunch, the "Minute To Win It" Balloon Blast and Stick the Landing competitions fostered a sense of friendly rivalry as students enagaged in lighthearted showdowns against their peers. Additionally, these spirited contests provided a fun and energising break from the academic routine.

The highlight of the week was the inaugural Astronomy Evening where students from John Therry Catholic College and St Gregorys’s College joined us to participate in a range of activities including star wheels, cosmic art, constellation lamps, building moon rovers and participtaing in astronomy trivia. The night was enhanced by space experts from Bintel who brought advanced telescopes for the students to use whilst sharing their immense knowledge about space and technology. 

This past week has been an amazing opportunity for students to take part in so many hands on experiments which have helped them develop a deeper appreciation for the incredible world of science.

We are eagerly counting down the days until next year’s Science Week, where even more exciting and unforgettable experiences await us.

Elizabeth Parsons - Science Coordinator

The presenters talked to the group about the evolution of the medieval period, famous battles such as the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and the role of the court jester and his position as the King’s entertainer and confidante. The visiting troupe displayed the armour and weapons used in the medieval period including ‘chain mail’ suits, which the students were able to wear, battle helmets, swords and spears. It was fascinating to listen to how the weapons were used and the fighting techniques the soldiers developed to win the battles. 

The day was not just spent listening to the stories and being entertained by the court jester with magical trickery. We also participated in the training to become knights! We raced off in teams in a ‘Squires Run’  to win the title of being the best squire of St Patrick’s College. The best student of the day was knighted in a symbolic ceremony for her bravery, gallantry and chivalrous behaviour.

Overall, it was a wonderful day and thank you to all the teachers who gave up their time! 

Lily H - Year 8 student

It was well organised and all representatives spoke at a high level with varying interesting topics. It was both enjoyable and a great learning experience with other like minded students from Macarthur schools. Thank you Mrs Pulham for this opportunity and to Mr Lord for accompanying us to Thomas Hassall Anglican College for such a memorable day.

Zali B and Rebecca M - MISA Debaters 

Alex had a an outstanding meet, and achieved the following:

1st place - 50m Butterfly

4th place - 200m Medley Relay

1st place - 100m Butterfly

3rd place - 200m Freestyle Relay

Congratulations Alex, the College is very proud of your achievements.

Scott Ashcroft - Sport and Activiites Coordinator

Ashleigh placed 8th in Australia at the competition, which is an outstanding achievement.

Ashleigh is also coached by former St Patrick's Alumni, Melanie Lillis.

Congratulations Ashleigh, we are very proud of you.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

 Students are able to check their current loans by 

1. Go to the Library catalogue.
2. Click 'login' at the top of the page, then click on the blue bar
3. Click on 'My Stuff'
4. Choose 'Checkouts' to view items currently on loan (due dates are presented in MM/DD/YY format).

We encourage students to contact the Library if they have any concerns or questions. Students can return items in the chute located outside the Library.

1. Analyse and Understand the Feedback:

When you receive your assignment back, take the time to review the feedback provided by your teacher.

Ask yourself the following questions:

- Did you meet all the criteria outlined in the assignment?

- What specific feedback did your teacher provide?

- Do you fully comprehend the feedback given?

- Can you identify the reasons behind the mark you received?

If you're unclear about any aspect of the feedback, don't hesitate to ask your teacher for further clarification. Understanding where you went wrong is crucial to avoid repeating the same mistakes again.

2. Choose to Accept or Challenge:

Once you've gained a clear understanding of the feedback, you have two options: accept the grade or challenge it.

- Accept: If you realize that the mark reflects your performance accurately, don't dwell on it too much. Acknowledge that everyone makes mistakes, and view this experience as an opportunity for growth. Embrace the mindset that successful individuals use failures as stepping stones toward improvement.

- Challenge: If you genuinely believe that the mark awarded does not align with your efforts and adherence to the criteria, approach your teacher respectfully and express your viewpoint. Politely ask if they would reconsider the mark while providing evidence to support your case. Remember, advocating for yourself should always be done with respect.

3. Learn and Adapt:

Improvement comes from learning from your mistakes and taking action to rectify them. Make a conscious effort to identify where you went wrong and devise a plan to correct it. Consider these steps:

- Re-do the Assignment: If you have the dedication and time, consider revisiting parts of the assignment and resubmitting them. Revising your work not only demonstrates your commitment but also helps you apply the feedback effectively.

- Seek Inspiration: Ask your teacher if you can examine assignments from students who received top grades. Analyse their work to understand what elements contributed to their success and identify areas where your assignment fell short.

- Seek Early Feedback: For your next assignment, share your plan or draft with your teacher before the submission deadline. This proactive approach allows you to receive valuable feedback early on, giving you ample time to make improvements.

Remember, your academic journey is about learning and growth. Embrace every assignment, whether successful or disappointing, as a chance to hone your skills and become a better student. Stay persistent, and don't let setbacks define your capabilities. With a positive attitude and willingness to learn, you'll be better prepared to face future challenges and achieve your goals. Keep striving for excellence and improvement.

The College Library

The decision to participate in the Premier's Reading Challenge each year is not taken lightly.

In addition to class work, homework, assessments and extra curricula activities, the participants aim to read a minimum of 20 books; 10 of which must be from the Challenge Booklists. The girls must enter their reading onto their electronic log, and once they have fulfilled the requirements, their challenge is complete for the year.

The challenge is open to all students from Kindergarten to year 10, and certificates are awarded for levels of participation.

Any student who has successfully completed the challenge every year from Kindergarten to year 10 is awarded the Premier's Medal. This is an outstanding achievement.

I am very proud of the 47 students who undertook the challenge in 2023. Even if you were not able to achieve the required 20 books, it is admirable to attempt the challenge and you should be proud of your efforts. This year, 32 students ranging from year 7 to year 10 were successful in completing the challenge. You will be acknowledged in Assembly at a later date. Well Done!

The College Library

All funds raised through Trivia and the Raffle will go directly to the fund. You can purchase raffle tickets HERE and you do not need to be present on the night to win!
There is something for everyone:

• Shopping vouchers for everything from Macarthur Square, Ed.Square, Narellan Town Centre and Coles
• Golf Days thanks to Camden Golf Course and Wests Group and Hotel Stays thanks to Rydges
• Food vouchers for venues including Wests Group, Gregory Hills Hotel
• Days of adventure with prizes from Luna Park Sydney, Raging Waters and Fastlane Karting