Week 6 Term 2 2023
From the Principal
Dear Parents, Staff and Students,
Having now passed the halfway mark of the term, I would encourage all families to check-in with their children to see how they are tracking in terms of academic engagement, especially. I particularly congratulate our Year 10 students on the way they conducted themselves across their Exam Block this week, which included several periods of supervised study prior to exams commencing. ‘Academic care’ of students is our core business at Woodlawn and I thank our staff for their efforts in ensuring students across all year levels are appropriately engaged in their studies.
Transport NSW has asked schools to remind students to wear a seat belt while travelling on the bus to and from school. While travelling on the bus, students are to follow the Transport NSW Code of Conduct for School Students. It is every student’s responsibility to behave in a manner that ensures the safety and comfort of passengers and drivers. This includes wearing the seat belt properly adjusted and fastened, if one is available while travelling on the bus. Students are to ensure they treat bus drivers with respect and follow any directions to wear a seat belt to ensure their safety, their peers and the driver.
With Trinity’s departure, the parking situation has eased across the College. However, we have been asked by one of our neighbours on Woodlawn Road to remind parents to not park across their driveway of an afternoon, while waiting to drive into the bottom student pick-up area. Thanks for your cooperation in this regard.
The traditional cold and flu season is now upon us, so we offer a gentle reminder to families to ensure that students who are displaying signs of illness remain at home until these symptoms have eased. NSW Health offers the following steps to reduce your COVID risk:
- Stay up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Stay home if you have cold or flu symptoms and get tested.
- Wear a mask in crowded, indoor places.
- Talk with your doctor now if you are at higher risk of severe illness. You may be eligible for antiviral medicines.
- Don't visit people who are at higher risk if you have symptoms or COVID-19.
The College still has a small supply of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) available to students. If you require these, please collect via SSO.
This week is National Reconciliation Week; the theme for 2023 is: ‘Be A Voice For Generations’. As this fortnight’s reflection, I include the following prayer for Reconciliation:
Reconciliation Prayer
Holy Father, God of Love,
You are the Creator of all things.
We acknowledge the pain and shame of our history
and the sufferings of Our peoples, and we ask your forgiveness.
We thank you for the survival of Indigenous cultures
Our hope is in you because you gave your Son Jesus
to reconcile the world to you.
We pray for your strength and grace to forgive, accept and love one another, as you love us and forgive and accept us in the sacrifice of your Son.
Give us the courage to accept the realities of our history so that we may build a better future for our Nation.
Teach us to respect all cultures.
Teach us to care for our land and waters.
Help us to share justly the resources of this land.
Help us to bring about spiritual and social change to improve the quality of life for all groups in our communities, especially the disadvantaged.
Help young people to find true dignity and self-esteem by your Spirit.
May your power and love be the foundations on which we build our families, our communities and our Nation, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
(Wontulp Bi-Buya Indigenous Theology Working Group 13 March 1997 Brisbane, Qld).
On behalf of all members of the Woodlawn family, we extend our condolences to Thomas Rowling (Year 12); Otis (Year 12) and Tobias (Year 8) Wilson; and Tom (Year 10) and Molly (Year 8) Corcoran who have all lost loved ones recently. May they rest in peace.
Finally, Lismore CSO has confirmed that Mr Michael Campbell’s appointment as Acting Principal of St Mary’s Catholic College, Casino will remain in place until the end of Term 2; therefore, Mr Chris Mason and Ms Stefanie Darke’s acting appointments at Woodlawn have also been extended to this time. I thank Mr Mason and Ms Darke for their sterling work in their respective roles over these past six weeks and look forward to their ongoing contribution across this extension.
With best wishes for the fortnight ahead.
Sincerely
Aaron Beach
Principal
From the Assistant Principal - Mission
This term we are reminded of our Mission to be the voice of the poor and the marginalised and to do anything we can to assist in providing them with a sense of dignity. As a Catholic community, it is essential that we support the work of the St Vincent de Paul Society. Vinnies assists people experiencing poverty and inequality and works to shape a more just and compassionate society. At Woodlawn, our commitment to these good works is evident through our active senior group of St Vincent de Paul students. Our 2023 Winter Appeal began with the annual Winter Sleep Out in Kelly Park. This began with a Liturgy, a cup of pumpkin soup, and a sleepout with no shelter. The following day, the College joined in ‘Flanno Friday’ for our casual day raising money for our local St Vincent de Paul Chapter. We are grateful for the support of so many families and I would like to encourage all members of our community to support the range of social justice initiatives that our College is committed to.
At Assembly this week, students were challenged to go through their cupboards and bring a jumper, hoodie, tracksuit, or jeans that are in good condition to display in the Canteen. This jumper drive could result in over 500 items of warm clothing donated for the homeless in our region. Please check that you are happy to donate the items and that they are clean and useful. We have one week to make this happen.
Sharing our faith experiences is an essential feature of life at the College. On 13 May, 35 members of our community travelled to the Ignite Launch experience at Dreamworld. The theme ‘Wonder’ was at the heart of prayer and rallies. Our students connected over the various experiences. In the evening rally, they were able to worship with the Emmanuel Catholic Mission team and other young people from our Diocese and across Queensland. A highlight was Joe Leed's testimony which focused on opening our hearts to Jesus and having the courage to really experience life to the full. Thanks to Mrs Deegan, Mr Eli Campbell and Megan Elliot for making this possible for our students.
Congratulations to our students who are embracing their educational opportunities. The latest RFL data indicates that there has been a clear improvement in how our students are approaching their learning, being committed to showing respect and adding to the positive learning culture we promote at Woodlawn. I had the opportunity of meeting our Year 7 students who received the top RFLs in their year group. They were awarded their Commendation Certificates and I congratulated them on their maturity and achievements. I also encouraged them to involve themselves in other aspects of College life and to keep their Commendation Certificates safe, as they now work towards Silver Awards and Silver Badges.
Following on from the success of the Carroll House Breakfast, we are now planning the Bell House Breakfast. On Friday, June 16 we would like Bell House families, Home Group teachers, and staff to join us for a fully catered breakfast. This is an informal gathering where we come together in a spirit of collegiality and community. These opportunities are important moments in the life of our students, parents, and College. These partnerships between families and the College enrich the experiences for our students. Check the invitation for further details.
Where are they now?
This week we feature Alexandria Utting who graduated from Woodlawn in 2007. Alex had a keen interest in the humanities and was well known for her quest to seek equity and justice for all. She was an active member of the Social Justice Committee and the St Vincent de Paul Conference. Alex embraced everything about Woodlawn; she had so many friends who supported each other and enjoyed sitting in the sun in Kelly Park. She was very academic and her inquiring mind led her to a career in journalism. I heard Alex reporting on Triple J and found her to be both engaging and professional. Alex initially worked for News Corp for about eight years before becoming a crime and court reporter. She has recently covered the Robodebt Royal Commission. She is hoping to move into television reporting to extend her career. Hopefully, we can entice her to come and run some workshops for our students.
Looking Forward
- SRC members from Years 10 and 11 will be attending the Leadership Conference at SCU
- Year 10 Ministry students will be leading peer to peer Ministry at St Carthage's Primary School
- Our SRC will be gathering for our annual sleepover and workshops
- Bell House Breakfast
- Year 9 Ministry students traveling to Mullumbimby to assist with Retreat Day
- Year 10 Work Experience
- Year 8 and 9 Police talk
- Year 11 students to Street Retreat - Mission experience in Brisbane
- Year 7 Reflection Day
- NAIDOC celebrations
- ST JOHN’S DAY: End of Term
Woodlawn offers so many opportunities for students. Please support our campaigns to make a difference in the life of someone we may never meet.
Annette Reen
Assistant Principal - Mission
annette.reen@lism.catholic.edu.au
From the Acting Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
It’s a busy time of the academic year as we move into the examination blocks that will conclude Semester 1 in Stages 4 and 5. Stage 6, meanwhile, is in the thick of assessments. Below are some of this fortnight’s key events in teaching and learning:
Beef Week Champions
We congratulate our students from the Woodlawn Cattle Show Team, who achieved outstanding results at last weekend’s Casino Beef Week Meat Judging Competition. Congratulations to: Will Fraser, Emily Maher, Tess Maher and Kirra Fowler. Thanks to Mrs Tania Fraser, Mr Craig Fowler, and Mrs Maddie Fischer for all their hard work in assisting and supporting those students - it is sure that our Agriculture classes have an impact on such keen student interest and success.
Year 11 Parent-Teacher Interviews
Thank you to all the parents of Year 11 students who attended this week’s Year 11 Parent-Teacher interviews. It was a wonderfully well-attended night and yet another reminder of what a connected and collaborative learning community we are. The conversations were mostly focused on reflection on the recent examinations and goal-setting for the remainder of the Year 11 course. Year 11 students will make their final subject changes at the end of Term 3, with most opting to cut their study load down to 11 units as they begin their HSC year. The advice to students from staff is to apply oneself conscientiously to all subjects over the next 15 weeks, and hold off on any subject-related decisions until the final Year 11 mark and rank have been calculated: as students often surprise themselves by exceeding their own expectations.
Year 10 Examinations
Year 10 Examinations have been underway all week. For Year 10, this is their first experience of a formal, out-of-class examination block; a crucial step in preparation for Stage 6. Students were taking the exams seriously and most seemed well-prepared, which is a pleasing reflection of our academic culture.
Years 7-9 Examinations
All students in Years 7-9 will sit in-class examinations next week (Week 7). These are formal exam-condition tests that are designed to allow students to showcase their knowledge and understanding of core skills and concepts in each KLA. Examinations are conducted by the classroom teacher, in the timetabled class. All students can access their exam timetable via the Assessment hub on Google Classroom. The examination results contribute to, but are not the entirety of, the Semester 1 Report; staff also report on the learning that is demonstrated in day-to-day lessons and ongoing formative assessment.
Years 7-10 Parent-Teacher Interviews
Years 7 and 9 Parent-Teacher night will be on Tuesday, June 20 from 4.00pm-8.00pm.
Years 8 and 10 Parent-Teacher night will be on Tuesday, June 27 from 4.00pm - 8.00pm.
Bookings will be made available via Compass by Mr Matthew Bailey.
We encourage you to come along, meet your child’s teachers and take part in your child’s academic reflection and goal-setting as we conclude Semester 1.
Year 12 History Excursion
This week, our Year 12 Ancient and Modern History students travelled to Sydney for the annual History Teachers Association lectures at Sydney University. Also attended by myself and Mrs Marlaina Garcia, we travelled with students to Sydney on the XPT train (something of a history lesson in itself!), where they attended two full days of lectures in the University’s Carslaw Theatre. We were also lucky enough to sneak in a ferry trip across Sydney’s glorious harbour to Manly, a viewing of this year’s Archibald Prize portraits, and a walking tour of the Vivid Festival. Academically, the excursion was outstanding, and culturally it was a memorable shared experience.
Christopher Mason
Acting Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
christopher.mason@lism.catholic.edu.au
Student Wellbeing
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Instagram
Instagram is one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. Many of our young people use this as a major means of communication. ReachOut Parents is partnering with Instagram Australia to show parents how to help their teen stay safe and happy on social media, namely Instagram. This guide, whilst quite long, has some excellent tips that you might find useful.
Positive Choices Webinar
Attendance
Attendance at school really does matter. This graphic demonstrates the cumulative impact of low attendance:
The Lismore Catholic Schools Office requires us to follow up with families when students have low levels of attendance. We understand that absences can be explained or unexplained; however, both of these contribute to overall attendance percentages. Initially, this follow up could be via a phone call or an email to offer support if required. This may then be followed by a meeting to discuss the attendance concern. A plan is then developed with families, and the young person, to improve attendance. We appreciate your efforts in supporting your young person to attend school.
Winter uniform
Just a reminder that students need to wear their College blazer to and from school after the June long weekend. This is a warm addition to their jumper or vest during the cooler months.
If you have any questions or concerns about your young person, please contact me at fiona.fennamore@lism.catholic.edu.au or 66262627.
Regards,
Fiona Fennamore
Leader of Student Welfare
fiona.fennamore@lism.catholic.edu.au
Careers Update
UAC News
In the most recent update from UAC, they have advised that students need to check that their details are correct (especially that they have included an active personal email address to receive correspondence) and to submit an application if they are considering applying to Universities within NSW (Queensland does not open until late July). Updated details from UAC in the Careers Update include information about UAC Pins and why you can't find some courses yet.
UAC have also put together a program called Course Compass. This allows Year 12 students to determine which Uni course to apply for using your actual HSC subjects. It will display fields of study offered to applicants in a similar position. UAC also discussed Early Offers, including the SRS (Schools Recommendation Scheme).
Check out the list of Key Dates. HSC results and ATARs will be released on the same day.
Don't forget that the UAC early bird applications close on 29 September. Hard copies of this year's UAC Guide are available from my office. Year 12 students please drop by for your copy.
Upcoming Events
This week is the Study Gold Coast Careers Festival at Gold Coast Sports and Leisure
Centre. It will be held from Thursday to Saturday and entry is free.
Year 10 Work Experience is fast approaching. Students need to finalise their paperwork for
their upcoming week of Work Experience from 19 - 23 June. If they have any issues, it
would be appreciated if they could send me an email in the first instance so that we can
explore solutions together.
Year 12 - What would a Gap Year with the Department of Home Affairs look like?
Jobs Northern Rivers - Are you looking to have a gap year and save money? Would you
like to work and stay local? Are you thinking about doing an apprenticeship or a traineeship?
If so, check out the information on Jobs Northern Rivers where you can upload a Resume,
shortlist jobs, and connect with local employers.
With Junior Exams happening all around us at the moment, I thought this article from Study
Work Grow about overcoming procrastination, as well as some other study tips, was worth
sharing.
For this information and more please head to the Careers Update page.
Bernie Maginnity
Vocational Pathways Coordinator
bernie.maginnity@lism.catholic.edu.au
Student Services
Year 10 - School Vaccination Program
Thursday, 8 June – Year 10 Meningococcal
Thursday, 7 September – Catch-up for any Years 7 & 10 students
Keeping your child up-to-date with routine vaccinations helps to protect them from serious preventable diseases such as meningococcal, whooping cough, tetanus, and cancers that are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). Students in Year 10 are offered the meningococcal ACWY vaccine.
Parental consent is required for your child to receive routine vaccinations at school. If your child is in Year 7 or Year 10 this year, you can now provide this consent through the online consent portal by clicking login with a ‘Service NSW Account’.
Read a step-by-step guide on how to provide consent online. Translated guides are available in Arabic, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese.
From February 2023, children in Year 7 will now only need one dose of HPV vaccination. This change has been endorsed by ATAGI based on evidence showing that one dose provides the same level of protection against HPV as two doses.
If you have already consented to your child receiving two doses of HPV vaccine, they will only receive one dose.
If your child previously missed their second dose of HPV vaccine, they are now considered fully vaccinated and do not require a second dose.
A small number of students who are immunocompromised are still recommended to receive a three-dose course of HPV vaccine. If your child is immunocompromised, please discuss their immunisation needs with their GP.
If your child misses a school vaccination clinic, you can speak to your local GP or pharmacist about catching up on vaccination.
For more information on school vaccination visit: health.nsw.gov.au/schoolvaccination
Reminder - Compass App
Thank you to all parents/guardians who have been using the Compass App.
Student Services Office (SSO) cannot guarantee your student will be ready for collection without adequate notification. It is particularly difficult to locate a student during recess and lunch so the more notice we have, the quicker the process will be for you to pick up your child. We understand that unforeseen circumstances do happen; however, we encourage you to use the Compass App for early departures to attend pre-planned appointments.
Once notification is received, SSO will send the student to the drop-off location ready for your collection.
Student Drop-Off & Pick-Up Zone
Please note students need to be collected and dropped back at school at the Drop-Off /Pick-Up Zone which is between the school and the ovals at the back of the school.
Instructions for entering details into Compass to collect a child early
1. Log into your Compass account
2. Click on the +Shortcuts symbol at the bottom of the page
3. Select Submit Absence Note
4. Select Reason
5. Add Details/Comments
6. Select the date and time that your child will be collected or absent
7. Select the End date as the date or time your child will be returning to school (or 3.15pm if they are not returning to school that day)
8. Select Potentially Affected Sessions
9. Submit the note by selecting Add Attendance Note at the bottom of the page.
Sharon Robotham & Kendall Thomson
Student Services Office
lisjc-studentservices@lism.catholic.edu.au
02 6626 2629
Canteen News
Flexischools orders has a cut-off time of 9.00 am.
The cash free way to pay! - REGISTER NOW
Paying for lunches is now safer and hassle free. With cashless cards there's no need for students to bring cash to school.
The College has Flexischools to allow students to pay at the Canteen using their existing student ID card. Paying for lunches and items at recess or lunch is now safer and hassle free. With cashless cards there's no need for students to bring cash to school. Parents can set daily spending limits and view transactions online. Parents can also top-up funds at any time.
The Canteen has introduced a Fast-Track line for students who have pre-ordered to collect their lunches, making it much easier and quicker for students.
We encourage all students to register. This will allow for those days when your student may have forgotten their homemade lunches.
Please follow the link below to register now:
Uniform Shop
The Woodlawn Uniform Shop is proudly managed by P&C Uniforms.
To ensure you have an easy and pleasant experience while ordering uniforms, we encourage you to order online ahead of time for easy click-and-collect in store.
Uniform Shop Opening Hours:
Time: Monday 8.00am - 9.30am & Wednesday 11.00am - 2.00pm
Where: Colin Centre
Order Online: www.sjcwuniformshop.com.au
Book a fitting: www.sjcwuniformshop.com.au/bts-appointments
Second Hand Uniform Shop Opening Hours:
Time: 11.00am - 2.00pm
When: Every Wednesday
Where: Colin Centre
Leanne Copeland
Uniform Shop Convenor
0407 739 237