From the Principal – Term 1 Week 6

It is hard to believe that we are over the half-way mark of Term 1. So many milestone events and great work have been undertaken by our students and staff in this time.   

International Women’s Day 

Today, we join with the worldwide community in recognising and celebrating International Women’s Day. The 2024 theme is “Inspire Inclusion”. Our student leaders have taken the initiative to sell purple ribbons in recognition of the day and also writing positive affirmations on post-it notes and placing them around the College. Everyone everywhere can build on IWD’s century-plus history to help forge positive change for women and girls and, as a community, we need to play our part.   

Year 12 Ball  

The Year 12 Ball was held last Friday. It was an absolute pleasure to witness our students come together to share this special moment with such grace and a genuine care for one another. The behaviour exhibited by our students was exemplary. Throughout the event, they conducted themselves with maturity, reflecting the values of our College community. Moreover, we were impressed by the students’ sense of style and adherence to the dress code. They arrived looking smart and sophisticated, dressed appropriately for the occasion.  It was a fabulous evening and a momentous occasion. 

I would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all students and staff who contributed to the success of the Year 12 Ball. The staff support, dedication, and commitment to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for our students is deeply appreciated. 

As we reflect on the memories created, let us continue to cherish these special moments and look forward to the bright futures that await our graduating class of 2024. 

Paul Litherland Presentation 

Paul Litherland spoke to our students during the week and a Parent Presentation was also held on Wednesday evening. Paul spoke on the importance of “Cyber Safety”.  The presentation was attended by 150 parents who gained great insights and practical strategies for use at home in supporting their children in the online space.  

Year 4 to Year 6 IPSHA Swimming Carnival  

At the College Pool on Thursday we hosted the IPSHA Swimming Carnival.  The weather was perfect, and the young students were excited and participated in true sportsmanship form. 

Congratulations to all the students who participated and all the enthusiastic students cheering on their friends from the sidelines.  It was so heartwarming to see that camaraderie amongst the students.  

Thank you to all the staff who assisted to make the event a success and thank you to parents who supported the students by taking time out of their day to attend.    

Teaching and Learning  

We believe every student can experience success in learning through gains and growth in achievement and wellbeing. In this edition of the Newsletter, Mrs Beth Murphy, Deputy Principal Teaching & Learning PK-12, discusses what underpins our approach to gains and growth in learning and wellbeing. Some elements are big picture while others point to the importance of setting high but achievable standards for our young people.

Click here to access the article. 

Da Vinci Decathalon 

Congratulations to our students who participated in the Da Vinci Decathlon this week. Students compete in teams of eight across 10 topics: engineering, mathematics, code breaking, art and poetry, science, english, ideation, creative producers, cartography and legacy.  

A special mention to students in the Year 9 team who achieved second place in Creative Producers.  

Well done to our Year 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 teams.  

Holy Spirit Parish in City Beach

Holy Spirit Parish in City Beach is celebrating their 50th anniversary next Sunday 17 March. The parish priest, Fr Emmanuel, is a great supporter of our College and often celebrates our Community and Year level masses. It would be lovely for families to attend in support of him and the parish if they are able.

Click here for more information.

Newman Parent Forum (NPF) 

The Newman Parent Forum meeting is scheduled for next Monday 11 March at 6.00pm in the John Henry Newman Learning Hub.   We welcome all parents to attend, as it is a good opportunity to meet other parents and also meet the Executive team. 

Below are Agenda items which will be discussed at the meeting:  

  • Introduction of our Vice Principal, Michael Chiera 
  • WACE Results 2023  
  • Capital Works  
  • School Improvement for 2024  
  • Process for new Strategic School Improvement Plan  
  • Uniform review/update  
  • Newman Literacy Approach 
  • Newman Family Events  

I look forward to seeing parents, however if you are unable to attend in person, please join the meeting online via a link: CLICK HERE 

Wishing you every blessing. 

ANDREW WATSON 
PRINCIPAL