Week 10 Term 2

Feast of Saints Peter and Paul

This year we took a slightly different approach to our liturgical and community-building activities for our annual feast day.  A liturgy was held in PC classes with teachers being able to interact with students and explain the significance of many aspects of a liturgical celebration.  Similarly, the afternoon activities involved competition within and between PC groups with lots of fun trivia and other games incorporated to ensure a nice end to the day.  Well done to Mr MacAndrews, Miss Henry and our YMOs, Darcy and Calissa, for a wonderful day of celebration and interaction. 

Professional Learning Days Cancelled

A reminder to you all that our planned days of professional learning (student-free days) have been cancelled in support of parents and families that are already doing it tough. We are doing our best to keep students in school and pressure off parents. We are looking at ways to provide staff with essential training times that are less disruptive for families. 

Cancelled days:

• Friday, 3 July (final day Term 2)
• Monday, 20 July (first day Term 3) 

Reports and Parent/Teacher Interviews

The next of our Parent/Teacher interview dates is set down for 10 August.  The format for this evening is yet to be determined but may involve some online Zoom interviews.  We will keep you informed as information becomes clearer around what is acceptable in the community. 

Some Issues of Concern

Uniform

Over the years, we have made a number of concessions to support students with uniform requirements.  Nevertheless, having a strong identity through uniform is one of the key aspects of St Paul’s College that separates us from other schools.  Most parents agree that uniform for students provides them with a sense of belonging and teaches us about pride in our workplace.  This is essential when moving into the workforce post-school. 

So What Have We Done Over The Years? 

• Provided girls with a single uniform to reduce cost impacts on families of purchasing two separate uniforms for winter and summer.
• Allowed junior boys to wear shirts untucked all year and senior boys similarly during summer terms by providing an academic shirt that is fashionable to do so.
• Allowed the school jacket to be worn everyday instead of just with the sports uniform.  In previous years, students were required to wear the knitted jumper when wearing the academic uniform.
• Created a jacket with an inner liner to provide warmth and a hood to protect in wet weather.
• Reviewed our insistence on ‘school shoes’ with a heel.  A polishable shoe without a heel is now allowed, even if not preferred.
• Created a single sock for boys and girls (unisex) which can ultimately be worn for sport and academic uniforms.
• Provided every student a free school cap or bucket hat a number of years ago to encourage the wearing of hats while outside. 

So Why Am I Concerned?

• In many cases, students still want to ignore uniform requirements and wear whatever is comfortable or ‘streetwise’.
• Long sleeve shirts under blouses, hoodie jumpers under jackets (with hoods out) cause uniform to look anything but similar.
• Socks of all varieties being worn that are clearly not compliant with uniform requirements.
• An explosion of hats being worn that are not uniform, and being strung on the outside of bags in preparation for wearing them at any time. The excuse being “it is expensive so I do not want it getting crushed in my bag”.
• Jewellery (boys and girls) and makeup (generally girls) becoming far too obvious, especially brightly coloured nails. 

How Do We Fix This? 

• We cannot do this without parental support.  We are relying on our partnership with parents and carers to provide a united front in ensuring uniform is seen as important in this school.
• Please insist your child leaves home dressed correctly.
• If you cannot provide this guarantee, please write a note IN THE DIARY with an explanation of WHEN the issue will be rectified.
• Do not allow foreign hats and jumpers to be worn or taken to school to reduce the temptation to wear them while here at St Paul’s.
• Support us when sanctions (penalties and punishments) are applied by staff.

Parents Using Mobile Phones to Contact Children

From time to time, it is understandable that parents want to be in contact with their child while at school.  There are many situations where it is conceivable that immediate contact is required.  But for the majority of cases, contact is not urgent and should operate through normal channels, eg the front office phone system.  In either case, however, the use of student mobile phones is a distraction and disturbance to learning that is generally avoidable and not required. 

What Happens When You Make Direct Contact With Your Child? 

• The learning of your child and the rest of the class is potentially interrupted.
• You are setting in place an attitude of disregard for school rules and giving permission for your child to pick and choose which ones to follow.
• You place staff in conflict with students when they attempt to enforce rules.
• You keep the school out of the loop and poorly informed when emergency information needs to be conveyed.
• Allowing your child to contact you when they are in trouble for an event creates stress on your part when only ‘parts of a story’ are made known to you.

The use of the phone in school is becoming a larger and more unmanageable problem.  The staff of the College are understandably very concerned that your child’s learning, their ability to teach effectively, and relations between school and home are being impacted because of phone use.  We ask families to support us in managing what is only going to become an even bigger problem if we do not work together. 

I wish you a lovely and restful break. 

Term 3 Resumes: Monday, 20 July for all staff and students.

God Bless

Kevin Lewis BEd (Syd) MEd (ACU) GradCertRe (Uon)

College Principal

kevin.lewis@lism.catholic.edu.au

ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC SECONDARY COLLEGE  

MEDIA RELEASE

$2.7 million grant for St Paul’s Catholic Secondary College, Kempsey 

The Hon. Melinda Pavey MP has announced a State Government grant of $2.76 million to St Paul’s Catholic Secondary College, Kempsey for the refurbishment of the current College Hall into a Performing Arts Centre and the construction of a Sports and Fitness Centre. 

The new Performing Arts Centre will have facilities for drama, music and dance. 

Kevin Lewis, Principal of St Paul’s College, has expressed his desire for students in regional areas to have the same opportunities as students in the cities. 

“The new Performing Arts Centre will give students the best opportunities to succeed, not only in the classroom but also in life,” said Kevin.   He said that critical thinking and learning to express and communicate ideas are just some of the skills that St Paul’s students learn by participation in the arts. 

Kevin goes on to praise the students of St Paul’s, both past and present. 

“Our students have achieved Band 6 results, nominations to Onstage (drama) and Encore (music), with some achieving their best HSC subject result in Creative Arts. “

“Many students have continued their passion for Drama choosing to become Drama teachers or have entered into the Theatre profession.”   

“At St Paul’s College our students have excelled in Drama competitions including Sport for Jove’s ‘Shakespeare Carnival’ and the local Eisteddfods.”

“For the past three years, our students have competed fiercely in The Shakespeare Carnival. This is a state-wide competition involving all registered schools focusing on the works of William Shakespeare. The hard work and dedication of our students was rewarded with our students performing on the Seymour Centre stage in Sydney earning the title of State Champions in 2017 and Runner up State Champions in 2018.  

Mr Lewis said that the new facilities will allow the College to further explore performance opportunities including large school musicals, and greater opportunities to engage with theatre companies and their shows.

Planning is well underway and construction will commence in 2021. 

FUNDING ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE HON MELINDA PAVEY MP

Thursday 25 June 2020 at 11am – St Paul’s Catholic Secondary College, 115 Sea Street, Kempsey

Kevin Lewis BEd (Syd) MEd (ACU) GradCertRE (UoN)

Principal

St Paul’s Catholic Secondary College, Kempsey

02 6562 7200

Years 7 – 11 Reports

All Year 7–11 Reports have been presented to students in Stage-based Commendation Ceremonies today (Friday, 3 July).  Reports for Years 7–10 will have a Common Grade for each subject and subject marks are not reported due to the disruption caused by the Covid–19 Pandemic.  Year 11 Reports contain task marks for most subjects.  Moving forward, St Paul’s College Reports for students in Years 7–11 will contain a Common Grade for each subject and will not contain marks.  This is a requirement which is now stipulated by NESA and the Lismore CSO and conforms to the standards referenced assessment framework.  Staff at St Paul’s will communicate assessment results and ranks via Parent/Teacher interviews which are available after each reporting period. 

Restrictions still in place because of the pandemic, prohibit parents from attending our customary Semester 1 Commendation Ceremony.  Consequently, photographs and videos from these assemblies will be uploaded to St Paul’s College Facebook and Webpage so that parents can view the successes of their children. 

Parent Teacher Interviews

Face-to-face interviews will take place on Monday, evening 10 August (Week 4 – Term 3) at this stage, and social distancing measures will be applied if there is still a government requirement.  We will be taking bookings via the schoolinterviews.com.au portal and the booking code will be made available early in next term. 

Year 10 into 11 Subject Selection

All Year 10 students should now have the Year 11 – 2021 Course Selection Handbook and you would have received a letter outlining the timeline for subject selection.  On Wednesday, 22 July (Term 3 – Week 1) Year 10 students will be presented with subject information by a range of teachers at school.  This will be followed by the Year 10 into 11 Subject Selection Information night on Monday, 27 July (Week 2 – Term 2) from 4 – 6.30 pm.  This event will be staged face-to-face and restrictions will be applied if necessary.  On Monday, 3 August, we will then be conducting Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews.  I would like to say how important it is for parents to discuss subject selection with their children.  Students should choose the subjects that they enjoy and not be influenced by peers.  These important discussions should also include career choices and access to further education, ie university or vocational institutions, and any prerequisite subject that students may require in order to pursue certain career pathways. 

Year 8 into Year 9 Subject Selection

The Year 8 into 9 Subject Selection process will begin in Week 5 of Term 3.  Year 8 students will be able to choose two elective subjects as part of the Year 9 curriculum.  They will choose five subjects to participate in during the Year 9 subject selection taster day.  During this day in Week 5 of Term 3, students will be shown a sample of the content available from the Year 9 course and will participate in practical activities associated with that subject.  At the conclusion of the taster day, students will be asked to complete an online subject selection form where they will choose three subjects in order of preference. The subject lines for elective subjects in Year 9 will then be created using these subject selections.

Reflections on Term 2 at St Paul’s College

As the term comes to a close, it is important to reflect on all the excellent learning that has occurred at St Paul’s College and online over the past ten weeks.  We have been blessed in the valley by our relative isolation and the fact that the Covid–19 virus has had virtually no impact on our community in regard to cases and transmission.  We have not, however, been immune to the impact of the virus on the economy.  Many families and businesses have been impacted by closures and job losses.  It is pleasing, in these uncertain times, that students and teachers at St Paul’s have taken the opportunity to enhance their learning skills using a wide variety of online tools. Zoom, Screencastify, Prezi, SORA and the Google suite of apps are now routinely used by all members of our community and have provided a huge range of learning opportunities and challenges for families, staff and students.  Let us use these new learnings to continue to improve all aspects of education at St Paul’s College.

Mr Leon Robinson - Acting Assistant Principal

Luke Kennedy, Australia's most requested speaker had the opportunity to talk to all our students throughout the day on Friday, 26 June.  He spoke to them about: 

• Resilience​
• Mental health/self-care
• How to be yourself and stop worrying what people think
• Reducing fear, anxiety, and stress
• Bullying (self-bullying)
• Becoming aware of, and reducing, limiting thoughts and beliefs 

Reflections from Year 8 Student Post Event

“It was very interesting and inspiring”, and from another student, “He gave me and most likely many others, the guts to think about and change our ways and not stray further away from out true potential”. 

Special thanks to Mrs Belinda Mainey, Leader of Welfare, for organising this worthwhile event. 

Review of Pastoral Care

Over the last few weeks, staff have been asked to review many Pastoral policies, structures and routines that we have at the College.  Once collated parents and students will be given the opportunity to comment on and make suggestions to enhance out Pastoral Care at St Paul’s College.  Please look out for this in upcoming newsletters.

I want to take this opportunity to wish all our students and staff a restful and blessed break, and look forward to seeing you all back refreshed next term.

Mrs Bronwyn Shipton - Assistant Principal - Mission & Wellbeing

St Paul’s Feast Day Celebrations

Monday, 29 June, marked the Feast Day of our patron saint, Saint Paul.  Our community commemorated one of the most influential of all saints, whose writings can be found in the Canon of the Bible.  St Paul is known for his work in the growth and development of the early church, as well as his martyrdom.  Our Feast Day celebrations were different from previous years, with our College celebrating as a community within individual Pastoral Care Groups.  This provided the perfect opportunity for more students to become involved in the liturgy and personalise the service with their own prayers and intentions.  The afternoon saw a whole school trivia via Zoom and other games held within PCs. 

Accendere

‘And now I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples.’   John 13: 34-35. 

This week, eight CSYMA students joined the YMOs in leading the Accendere Retreat at St Joseph's.  Billy Barnett, Harry Burns, Sancia Crotty, Dana Dyet, Ronan O’Loughlin, Sienna Moore and Tiana Rowe facilitated Year 4 students in activities and conversations surrounding friendship, being a good neighbour and compassion.  The theme was reinforced with examples of how Jesus was a perfect friend and neighbour to all. It was an enjoyable day for all involved!  I would like to thank Calissa, Darcy and Mrs Erin McGovern for all their hard work in facilitating and organising this event.

Vinnies Winter Appeal

Each year our College supports the Vinnies Winter Appeal.  The St Paul’s Community always unites to provide support for those in need.  Once again, we are calling on the generosity of our community.  Vinnies play a vital role in supporting our community, and it is lovely to help contribute to their mission.  As the nights become colder, we are appealing for donations of winter woolies (jumpers, hats, sleeping bags, blankets etc).  Mr Edwards, along with a group of Year 10 students, is helping in this endeavour, by collecting donations from Pastoral Care Groups.  We thank you for your continued support and generosity. 

Praying with Music

In a time of uncertainty, I invite you to reflect on a message of hope.  The Blessing Australia, is an ecumenical version of the earlier edition of ‘The Blessing’. It highlights that Jesus is always with us in times of need and is a heart-warming blessing over our nation. 

Young Adult Formation - Aspire

Aspire, is a faith formation for young adults held by Bishop Gregory Homeming. This week saw young adults across the diocese gather via video link to hear Bishop Greg unravel the mystery of the relationship of the Holy Trinity.  All young adults (even beyond the St Paul’s and Macleay Parish community) are most welcome to attend future events.  Please contact me at the College for more information.  It was a spiritually enriching experience and I look forward to the next session. 

YMO Happenings

Our Youth Ministry Officers (YMOs), Calissa and Darcy, have been doing incredible things, as always: 

• REACH, our lunchtime youth group has continued to flourish this term. The theme over the last fortnight has been “Ask, Seek, Knock” derived from the scripture Matthew 7:7-12. Students engaged with what it means to pray and how to seek answers.
• I encourage you to look at the REACH instagram account (@reach_kmc) where Calissa and Darcy upload weekly Gospel reflections and challenges. 

• Our YMOs have been very busy attending Wildfire Experience at St Joseph’s and Dorrigo, Accendere retreat and working with the CSYMA classes. 

Sunday Mass Update

As restrictions are being eased, Fr James has generously scheduled some additional weekend Masses, to enable as many people to be able to attend as possible!  

Please contact the Parish Office or see the Parish Facebook page for more details about how to go about attending one of these Masses. 

For the time being, weekend Mass times will be as follows:

• Saturday 9.30 am – South West Rocks
• Saturday VIGIL 6 pm – Kempsey
• Sunday 7.30 am – South West Rocks
• Sunday 9.30 am – Kempsey
• Sunday 11 am – Kempsey

Please contact me if you have any questions about, or ideas for, ministry and evangelisation at the College.

God Bless!

Ms Megan Henry - Acting Leader of School Evangelisation

megan.henry@lism.catholic.edu.au

Semester 1

It has certainly been an unusual semester for our students, staff and families.  I have been particularly proud of the way our teachers have adapted to these changing circumstances and endeavored to provide continuity of learning for all students at St Paul’s College.  Students have also had to adapt to changes to their learning structures and routines and, whilst this has been more challenging for some, most students were able to continue with their learning and some students even flourished.  It is also important to acknowledge the many parents, grandparents and caregivers who supported their children throughout this difficult time.  One of the few benefits to come from this situation was the enhanced communication between parents and teachers which we hope will continue into the future. 

HSC Exam and Trial Exam Timetables

A reminder that Year 12 students all have access to their personalised HSC examination timetable through NESA Students Online.  Students must be aware of their exam dates and are asked to see me if there is a problem or they have any questions in regards to the timetable.  They also need to see me if they cannot access Students Online.

Year 12 have also received a final copy of the Trial HSC Exam timetable.  They should be establishing a revision timetable in preparation for this important assessment which, for most courses, is their final task and accounts for a significant proportion of the assessment weighting.

NESA Updates on the HSC

A reminder that Year 12 students and parents can keep up to date with any changes to the HSC due to Covid-19 via the following link:

https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/about/news/novel-coronavirus

HSC Minimum Standard of Literacy and Numeracy

Throughout the semester numerous opportunities have been provided for students in Years 10–12 to complete the online tests.  The standards must be met in the three areas of Reading, Writing and Numeracy in order for students to receive their HSC credential.  This will not, however, prevent them from receiving an ATAR.

We are endeavouring to have as many Year 10 and 11 students complete these tests, and reach the minimum standards, before the end of the year so as to relieve the additional burden during their HSC year. 

Further information can be found on the NESA website:

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

Years 7-10 Semester 1 Reports

A reminder that Semester 1 reports will include a common grade and comments but no marks.  Grades will be based upon any assessment tasks completed in Term 1 and other class work and informal tasks.  Mr Robinson has informed parents, in his newsletter report, on the permanent changes that will be occurring from this semester onwards.

HSC Practical Submission Dates:

• English Extension 2: 21 August
• Industrial Technology: 27 August
• Textiles and Design: 31 August
• Visual Arts: 14 September

Mrs Catriona Martin - Leader of Curriculum

Senior Study

Best wishes over the holidays, Year 12.  We will be back as usual next term for all those wanting to put in some after-hours study and revision.  Five days a week. Some of you have really been kicking goals!

Premier’s Reading Challenge

There has not been a great deal of activity since last report.  Evangeline Barton (Year 8) has edged one closer, as has Jade McLean (Year 9) who only has three to go.  The holidays should provide an ideal opportunity for others to update their stats.  As always, be sure to ask your English teacher, or Library staff, if you have any questions.  The Challenge finishes later next term. 

SORA

Everyone would already know of what is on offer here.  Do be sure, though, to balance "screen reading" with the real deal.  Again, just ask your English teacher, or Library staff, if you have any questions.

House Points

These should have been calculated by now.  Results will be publicised ASAP.  In the meantime, we will still take any overdues out there.

On behalf of Mrs Martin, Mrs Whalen and myself…

Happy Reading, Stay Safe and Enjoy the (scheduled) Break.

and remember…Wash Your Hands and Keep Your Distance

Mr Peter Garty - Teacher/Librarian

Mrs Kristy Carney - Additional Needs Teacher

NEXTWAVE FILM COMPETITION OPEN FOR ENTRIES

Coffs Coast’s Screenwave International Film Festival is again hosting the NEXTWAVE short film competition for young regional Australians this year – and would like some short film entries from our school! 

All films need to be under five minutes and include the phrase “What’s Next”.  Creativity is highly encouraged.  The best films will screen at SWIFF next January during the Nextwave Youth Film Awards, and tens of thousands of dollars in prizes are up for grabs to students (and our school!). 

Register Your Child for Nextwave’s New Free Online Filmmaking Workshops

If your child isn’t sure how to make their short film, the Screenwave International Film Festival has made a step-by-step ten (10) episode video guide on beginner filmmaking, with episodes starting to roll out next week on the new Nextwave Online learning portal.  To secure your child’s FREE access (thanks to Kempsey Shire Council and Kempsey Community Suicide Prevention), register here: https://nextwavefilmfest.com.au/workshop/