Term 4 - Week 5 & 6 - 22nd November 2024
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From the Principal
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Learning & Teaching (AP)
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Mission and Wellbeing (AP)
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Student Achievements
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From the Classroom, Camps & Excursions
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Sports News
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Careers News
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Catholic Faith in Action News
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Update to Student Driver Guidelines and Permissions
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Whooping Cough Information for Parents & Carers
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Dates to Note for November & December
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Flexischools App - Online Canteen Orders - Reminder
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Parish News
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Advertisements
Dear Parents and Carers, Staff and Students,
As we head into the last half of Term 4 of the 2024 school year, it is important that we finish well and acknowledge the many activities that students have been involved in. All students are to attend school each day and engage in learning activities and experiences. Many activities and events have been happening in the last fortnight and will continue until the end of the year, and these are highlighted in this newsletter. I thank all staff for giving their time to support our students in undertaking so many extracurricular activities.
Yr 12 Graduation Formal
Our annual Year 12 Formal, held on Saturday, 9th November, at The South Grafton Ex-Servicemans Club, was a wonderful night. It was exciting to celebrate together - students, parents and staff. The student's successes and growth are a testament to the collective effort of our dedicated staff and, of course, their loving and caring families. We are immensely proud of their journey and look forward to seeing the bright futures they will undoubtedly create. Thank you to our parent representatives Rob and Amy Imeson, who gave a vote of thanks to the College, and a special thank you to our outgoing College Leaders Eva Patricks and Brooklyn Roach, who gave an outstanding address of memories, reflections and thanks.
Thank you to Eryn Hammond and Maria Rouse, our organising committee, for making the night a success.
Student Leadership
Term 4 is a time of change for our Student Leadership Team, and our newly elected Year 12 Leaders came together last Friday at the Mercy Centre. The day, led by Mr Montford and Mrs Nicholls, aimed to empower our new Year 12 leaders to be servant leaders inspired by our Mercy Charism and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The day allowed our student leaders to explore their unique gifts and qualities and what it means to be an effective leader. This week, our Year 9 and 10 students will elect their representatives who will join the Year 12 students and complete our full leadership team.
We look forward to working with our leaders for 2025 and know they will lead with integrity and moral courage, setting a positive example for the school community.
Orientation Day - Parent Night
A very successful orientation day was held last Tuesday for our Year 7 2025 students. They participated in various lessons, a feedback session, and final preparations for their first day in 2025. That evening, parents attended the Information session. Thank you to our College Captains, Jasmine Chellew and Beau Thompson and Vice Captains, Alicia Boehme and Zethan Nichols, who represented our College on the night. The students led prayer, recounted their time as Year 7 students, and outlined the opportunities they had been given at the college.
We look forward to working with our new families, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank our Year 7 Coordinator for 2025, Mrs Caroline Spence, for organising such a wonderful day and to all the staff involved in ensuring the students' introduction to McAuley was a success.
Remembrance Day - 11th November
We always take time to acknowledge Remembrance Day at the College. Remembrance Day does not glorify war – it honours the memory of all those who laid down their lives for Australia. As a mark of respect to those who have served, we stopped to observe one minute’s silence on Friday at 11 am and acknowledged this day in our assembly. Mr Montford and our Captains, Beau, Jasmine, Alicia and Zethan represented the College at the Remembrance Day Service in South Grafton.
Whole School Approach to Pastoral Care Guidelines
Throughout the year, staff have been reviewing our Whole School Approach to Pastoral Care Guidelines. The purpose of these guidelines is to confirm the commitment of McAuley Catholic College to promoting a whole school, student-centred approach to Pastoral Care that enhances student wellbeing by developing a positive ethos and culture where everyone feels cared for, valued and respected. Student wellbeing is improvable, visible and measurable. As a positive education school, McAuley is committed to enhancing wellbeing outcomes by placing students at the centre of school decisions and authentic collaboration through student-driven change processes.
We ask our parent community to please read through the below document, and if you would like to provide any feedback, please email me at the College, kathryn.warby@lism.catholic.edu.au
Parent Forum Term 4
Our final Parent Forum for the year will be held in Week 8, Tuesday 3rd December. We invite parents and carers to attend to review our Whole School Approach to Pastoral Care Guidelines and our Whole School Approach to Student Management Guidelines. Both of these documents have been reviewed throughout the year and will become current in 2025.
We will also take the time to thank you for your continued support in 2024.
Parish Mass Term 4
As Advent approaches, we invite families to join staff to celebrate and prepare for this season of waiting, hope, and expectation.
Please join us for the parish mass at St Mary's Catholic Church Grafton on Tuesday, November 26th, at 5.15 pm.
Mark Bellamy Memorial
This week, along with his family and friends, we planted a tree in our memorial garden for Mark Bellamy to commemorate his fantastic legacy and share memories of his time at our college. It was an opportunity to reflect on the contributions Mark made to the college, and we thank Mark’s family for allowing us to do this.
Mark began his career at McAuley in 2002. Over the years, he taught History, English, Ancient History and Religious Education and undertook various roles such as Year Coordinator, Learning Technologies Coordinator and Teacher Librarian. Mark embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, and it was impossible to put into words the full extent of his impact on all of us. Matt Lobsey and Kate Thomson (read by Kathy Warby) shared the stories and memories that captured his essence—the passion, generosity, and commitment he brought to everything he did. Both of these reflections can be found within the newsletter.
Mark was a passionate historian, and we planted a Lone Pine Tree in his memory. Mark, along with Matt, organised and took many of our students and staff to Europe to learn about all things in both modern and ancient history. It was hard not to get swept away in their enthusiasm and passion, and throughout every journey together, they broadened the minds of many with their vast knowledge of history.
One such trip took the staff and students to The Battle of Lone Pine, fought between the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps and the Ottoman Empire forces during the Gallipoli Campaign of the First World War, 1915.
So it is only fitting that we planted a Pine tree. We thank Carol and Daryl Toms for donating this special tree, and we think Mark would absolutely love the symbolism of this tree based on his visit to Gallipoli in 2015 as part of the European Tour.
Mark was a member of the Mercy International Reflection Process working group led by Sr. Colleen Brady, who developed the Memorial Garden in 2016. The garden has been further developed this year, and the trees planted are now within a garden bed in the shape of a Mercy cross. We have also added to its beauty by providing seating for community members to come, reflect and share in the memories of those we have lost and hold dear to our hearts. I sincerely thank Isaac Day, Adam Bancroft, Brett Bowling, Ben Ralston, Mark Aspinall and our senior Construction students for their dedication to improving and preparing this garden.
As Mark's tree grows, his memory will remain within our hearts, and he will always hold a special place in the community of McAuley Catholic College.
Student Achievements
Over the last few weeks, many students have excelled in a variety of areas, and the newsletter highlights these in later articles. However, I would like to acknowledge a few.
Congratulations to Jasmine Chellew, who presented her Business Plan, “KelpCup”, at the University Of Newcastle finals last Friday. She was placed in the top two in the event, achieving a Highly Commendable Award and was awarded a $2000 Scholarship to support a Business Degree at Newcastle University. Thank you to Leanne McLennan, her Business Studies teacher, who has supported Jasmine throughout the process.
Congratulations to the following students who presented at the STEM MAD National Showcase on the 19th of November.
Year 8 students Pippi Short, Heidi van Leest and Lily Barett presented their prototype for the Study Buddy wellbeing tool in person at the STEM Mad event in Brisbane. The girls were commended for their contribution and communication with others who visited their booth to learn all about their wellbeing project.
Year 7 students Rahni Hummelstad, Zoe Goodwin, Gabrielle Fergusson and Isabel McSwan presented their prototype for the Biodegradable Water Filter via the online showcase on the same day. The girls won the STEM Make a Difference category and were also in the top three for the overall STEM award for secondary schools.
The students have worked really hard on their projects and have shown incredible flexibility and resilience in problem-solving when preparing their prototype for the National Showcase. Well done to the girls and Deb Parkin for supporting them throughout this competition. A wonderful achievement.
Mark Bellamy Memorial 18th November 2024
Excerpts from the reflection written by Kate Thomson:
"We are gathered here today to remember and celebrate the life of our dear colleague and friend, Mark Bellamy. It is our opportunity to reflect on the contributions Mark made to the college and we certainly thank Mark’s family for allowing us to do this and sharing this time with us. As we reflect on his time at Catherine McAuley College, it’s impossible to put into words the full extent of the impact he had on all of us. But we can certainly share the stories and memories that capture his essence—the passion, generosity, and commitment he brought to everything he did.
Mark and I arrived together at MCC in 2002, with Mark stepping into a role as a teacher of History, English, and Religious Education. From the very start, it was clear that Mark had found his calling. He embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm, diving into the challenges of teaching and connecting with students, colleagues, and the wider community in ways that were uniquely Mark.
What I have always believed, though, is that Mark’s journey to becoming a teacher—though it took him a little while to realise it—was one he was always meant to take. He had a gift for making learning come alive, for engaging students not just with the subject matter but with the joy and curiosity of learning itself.
Over the years, Mark taught hundreds of students, and touched the lives of hundreds more through the various roles he took on throughout his 22 years at MCC, including Year Coordinator, Librarian, Leader of Learning Technology and European Tour Co-leader. He was always committed to ensuring that the students were at the heart of everything he did. His work aligned deeply with the vision and mission of the College. In everything he did, Mark reminded us of what matters most: the impact we have on the lives of young people and the importance of creating an environment where they can thrive.
Mark had many passions—none more so than History both Modern and Ancient, the Mercy Library, nature and the environment, food and travel to name but a few. He had an incredible ability to connect people to the stories of the past, to show how those stories shaped the world we live in today. His love for learning and for sharing that love with others extended far beyond the classroom.
When Mark moved to the Library as the College Teacher-Librarian, it was as if he had found his happy place. Alongside Julie, Pam, Ann, and Alex, he transformed the Library into not just a space for books, but a welcoming, vibrant hub for everyone. Mark made sure that the Library was a place where both staff and students felt at home. It wasn’t just about the books on the shelves; it was about creating a space where everyone felt valued and supported.
To give what Mark gave to his career, to the College and community, he needed the support and generosity of his family. I want to take a moment to thank Mary-Therese, Harry, and Jack for the unwavering support you gave Mark in following his passions, and for the love and generosity you all shared in his journey here at MCC.
Mark was one of the most generous people I know—generous with his time, his energy, and his commitment to the College and to its students. Whether it was staying late to help with a project,taking on extra supervisions, organising a new initiative, or just showing up with a smile and a chat, Mark was always there.
One of Mark’s greatest joys was organising and leading the European Tours. The European Tour became something of an institution at MCC, and it was, without a doubt, Mark and Matt’s thing. From 2009 onwards, every two years, Mark and Matt would work tirelessly to create an experience like no other for our students. The planning, the passion, the attention to detail—all of it was an extension of Mark’s love for sharing the world with others. I had the privilege of travelling on two of those tours, and I can tell you, the learning, the excitement, and the passion that Mark and Matt brought to those trips left an indelible mark on everyone involved.
Mark’s life was far too short, and yet, in the time he had with us, he left an extraordinary legacy. He still had so much to offer, so much life left to live. But we take comfort in knowing that he lived fully, that he gave so much of himself, and that we are all richer for having known him.
Mark, we will continue to remember you. We will continue to tell the stories, to carry on the traditions you helped create, and to honour your memory in the ways that matter most—by staying true to the values you held so dear: generosity, passion, and the belief in the power of learning and connection.
Thank you, Mark. You will always be a part of this place, and you will always be missed.
Rest in peace, my friend."
Poem written by Matt Lobsey:
"In the corner of some foreign field
The elder brother said 'Don't forget me, cobber!'
And so they crouched to lift and carry each other
Where eagles soar and old bones sleep
At the crowded edges of the world.
They always gave life to an idea.
Through mighty palaces
and where those witches danced
They searched for the remains of the grail
In snowy mountaintops and the ancient ruins
Of the greatest remnants of the civilised.
Where the truth lay in their endeavour.
On that rocky cove where soldiers strove
To make their mark on foreign shores
The brothers roamed and sang
The songs of another age when
The crosses grew, row on row.
And always, they were walking.
Then where footsteps crushed the edifice
Of the sheen on newly settled snow
They made swollen angels from the ice
and played at conjuring from the enduring
Imagination of adventure.
To walk the people until they also knew.
They sought to escape the prison
By taking every moment as a chance
To see what had happened here before.
Before the sun rose above the monument
Of another great tragedy from another great time.
Finding true meaning in knowing.
Now in some fragmented memory
There are glimpses of all those wildflowers.
Poppies and edelweiss and waratahs
Being gathered in snatches of captured
Beauty held tightly in an embracing fist.
Then squashed in the band of his hat
To show that he had noticed.
And now in this corner of the earth
The sun shines on me
While my brother lies shrouded
In the flowers of his time.
And I can hear my brother speak:
'That's just the way it goes, Matt'.
‘C'mon man, we'll be right, we can do it'.
'There must be something here for us'....
I won’t forget you cobber
And I feel blessed by the enduring
Dance of our friendship."
Kind Regards,
Kathy Warby
Acting Principal
"The simplest and most practical lesson I know is to resolve to be good today but better tomorrow" Catherine McAuley.
"There's no better way to improve people's lives than to give them an education. Education is an asset that doesn't lose value, and creating a spirit of lifelong learning can only be good for the country, its productivity, and the individual".
Minister Shorten interview on ABC RN Breakfast with Patricia Karvelas 21/1124
Highlighting the Importance of Reading
Recent international research highlights a decline in Australian book buying and reading compared to other nations.
For families, this research serves as a timely reminder to cultivate a love of reading in children. Whether through shared storytime, regular visits to local libraries, or participating in literary events, fostering reading habits can enrich literacy, imagination, and critical thinking.
At our school, we are committed to cultivating a strong reading culture among our students. One key initiative supporting this goal is Drop Everything and Read (DEAR), where students and staff dedicate time each week to simply enjoying reading. This initiative reinforces the value of books and storytelling as essential elements of a well-rounded education.
By prioritising reading at school and home, we can work together to instil a lifelong love of books and learning in our students. Let us champion storytelling's importance, encouraging our young readers to explore, imagine, and grow through the written word.
Since the last newsletter, our school community has been a hive of activity, with recent events that showcased our commitment to service among our students and staff.
Leadership in Action
Leadership and service were central themes in several recent activities:
- We celebrated and farewelled the Class of 2024 and thanked our previous captains and year 12 students for their contributions to the College while at McAuley.
- Our new captains and vice captains shared reflections on their transition to high school, offering reassurance and inspiration to our incoming students and parents.
- Year 10 students embarked on their Teamwork, Resilience, and Leadership Camp, an integral part of our Pastoral Care program. This week, our Year 9 students continue this tradition at their camp, where they will embark on resilience building and remind them that teamwork and effort give a strong sense of self-worth and satisfaction.
- Construction students, under the guidance of Mr Ben Ralston and Mr Mark Aspinall, contributed to the College Memorial Garden, leaving a lasting legacy for our community.
- Our year 9 and 10 students nominated for leadership positions in the SLT 2025 and presented their speeches to their year groups.
Artistic Collaboration Across the Diocese
Year 8 and 9 students are immersed in the Regional Art Exchange Project, guided by Mrs Nardia Hill. This extraordinary initiative connects schools from the Archdiocese of Sydney and Catholic schools across regional NSW. Focused on recycling and sustainability, the project is a platform for creative dialogue, fostering the exchange of techniques, knowledge, and a shared passion for art.
Learning Safety and Risk
Year 8 students also participated in their Beach Safety and Surf Awareness Day as part of the Stage 4 PDHPE curriculum. Rotating through four different activities, students deepened their understanding of the current unit, Managing Safety and Risk. The day provided valuable, hands-on learning experiences that emphasised the importance of safety in aquatic environments while fostering teamwork and confidence.
Representation and Achievement
Our students continue to shine, representing the school in a range of significant events:
- School Captains and Vice Captains participated in the South Grafton Remembrance Day service, honouring those who have served.
- Jasmine Chellew showcased her entrepreneurial spirit at the University of Newcastle's Future Entrepreneur Challenge Finals.
- Year 7 and Year 8 students demonstrated their innovation and stewardship at the National STEM MAD finals, addressing real-world problems through the lens of Catholic values.
A special mention of staff members' achievements outside of school:
Congratulations to Angus Field, one of our Aboriginal Education Workers, on his band's achievements at the 2024 Aria Awards. 3% were announced winners of the Best Hip Hop / Rap Release 2024.
Recognising Positive Contributions
Our Positive Awards Scheme celebrates consistent positive behaviour and contributions to the College community. Students received Bronze Awards at the recent assembly to recognise their outstanding efforts. Congratulations to all the following awardees:
From Champagnat House - Gabrielle Fergusson, Kaneisha Nwaorgu-Thornton, & Charlie Rainbow;
From McCarthy House - Elle Fisher, Alex Sowell & Eve Van-Leest;
From Mercy House- Isabel McSwan, Liam Salvestro & Georgia Shorrock and
From Tracey House- Kai Brossman, Addison Brown, Wyatt Bullen, Max Forwell, Hazel Golding, Sabrina Golding, Mahala Hitchings, Huon Mclennan, Mabel Mula, Archie Pope, Abbey Spears, Lilly Sullivan, Jackie Surawski & Ashlee Zimmerman.
Dianne McGowan
Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching
St Vincent de Paul Christmas Hampers
This Year, once again, staff and students of McAuley work together as homerooms to create hampers that are donated to families in need within the Clarence Valley.
Each homeroom will offer these hampers at our Christmas Liturgy in Week 10. In collaboration with St Vincent de Paul, these hampers will be delivered to those most in need at this time.
Students have nominated a non-perishable item or two to bring in to contribute to their homeroom's hamper before the 9th of December.
The support and generosity from families in the past years have always been extremely appreciated and we take this time to thank all families for their contribution.
End-of-Year Activities
Planning has begun for the End of Year Activities to be held following the Advent Liturgy and Prizegiving. This week, students selected the activities they wish to undertake. Information regarding the activities will be sent home via Compass next week seeking permission and money for the different activities.
It is essential that permission and money is completed by Friday 6th December so that transport and activities can be finalised. After this time, we will offer positions from the waitlist.
It will be a great way to finish the year with students spending some valuable time together. Students who wish to participate in activities must ensure they are present on Tuesday 17th December for our annual Prizegiving and Advent Liturgy. Students on Stage 2 or above will not be able to attend off-site activities.
Advent Liturgy and Prizegiving
This year our Advent Liturgy and Prizegiving will take place on Tuesday 17th December at 9.30am. Parents and families are welcome to attend this special event as we end our year, prepare for the season of Christmas and celebrate the achievements of our students for the year. A morning tea will follow the prizegiving and families are invited to stay and celebrate the end of the year with staff, families and friends.
Students must come to school in full school uniform, and polished school shoes, looking their best. Students can bring their PDHPE uniform to change into for House activities which will follow the Prizegiving. If you would like to take your child home you will need to sign them out at the front office. We look forward to having you at the College to share in this event.
Change of Timetable - Bell times
Throughout this year's process of reviewing our Pastoral and Student Management Procedures, we have sought input from both staff and students. Many topics have been discussed, including the Student Planner, Homeroom, Pastoral care lesson, Assemblies and how to improve our processes and practices.
One change that we will trial starting next week is the change of time for Homeroom. Staff looked at ways to improve punctuality and attendance, as well as students' attendance within homeroom to receive important messages and pastoral support.
The day will start with Period 1 at 8.45, Period 2 at 9.45 and Homeroom at 10.45. Lunch will remain at 11am and the following times will be unchanged. Thursday’s timetable will not change due to the complexities of sport. However, the assembly will move to Period 4.
The new bell times are attached. They will be reviewed in Week 10, in the hope the change will occur permanently in 2025.
Nikita Robinson
Acting Assistant Principal - Mission and Wellbeing
Jasmine Chellew takes out a Highly Commendable Award for the University of Newcastle Future Entrepreneur Challenge Competition 2024
Jasmine presented her “KelpCup” Business Plan on Friday 15th November 2024 in Newcastle in front of three judges and a large audience for the Year 11 Future Entrepreneur Challenge. Jasmine’s innovative concept and her detailed Business Plan has contributed to her becoming the first ever highly commended runner up. As such Jasmine receives $1000. Jasmine’s motto for her KelpCup product was "From Sea, to Sip to Soil”.
The Newcastle Business School organiser for this competition, Patrick Lydon, said: “Jasmine really blew me away with her presentation and her ability to respond to the follow-up questions by the judges. She had clearly put a lot of work and effort in.”
This competition has great merit in making the connection between theory and practice. Jasmine is one of five students from McAuley who over the span of ten years has been a finalist. Jasmine’s reflection of this opportunity to showcase her innovative talents was: "A great experience on a subject I am highly passionate about and recommend for all".
The University of Newcastle offers the following courses: Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Business Analytics, Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship degree at the University of Newcastle. Jasmine may even select one of these courses as a post school venture.
Congratulations Jasmine, your product concept and presentation were exceptional. You have represented our college with finesse and graciousness. A special thank you goes to Mr and Mrs Chellew and former MCC student, Navah Crofton, for their support at this event.
Mrs Leanne McLennan
(A very proud) Business Studies Teacher
Huge Achievements by Junior Girls at the STEM MAD National Science Showcase
Our Year 7 girls (Rahni H, Gabrielle F, Zoe G and Isabel M) pitched their Biodegradable Water Filter via virtual presentation and WON the STEM Make a Difference category comprising of over 70 entries in the category. They were also in the top three out of more than 100 schools for the overall STEM award for secondary schools and are so excited about their win and achievements!
Our Year 8 girls (Pippi S, Heidi v and Lily B - pictured below) showcased their Study Buddy in the face-to-face event in Brisbane. While they were not awarded any categories, the girls interacted with those who visited their booth and were a credit to the values of our school. We travelled and stayed with two other primary schools from the Lismore Diocese. The other teachers commented on how inclusive and polite Pippi, Heidi and Lily are.
I am so proud of all the girls. What they have learnt about teamwork, resilience and bravery has been invaluable and, as an added bonus, their scientific, literacy and numeracy skills have sky-rocketed!
Bring on STEM MAD 2025!
Deb Parkin
Science Teacher
On Friday 22nd November the Year 10 Music class travelled to St Francis Villa to play some arrangements for the residents. The class set up all their instruments and performed Christmas Carols and some acoustic rock songs they had prepared for a recent assessment task.
Many of the residents joined in with the singing (if they knew the words) or clapped along with the sleigh bells (go Jessie!). Thanks to our lead singers Ivy, Amber and Annabelle. The band included Emily, Jack, Raimi, Elora, Aaliyah Mc, Aaliyah R, Kyle, Lani, Bowen, Ava, Kiera, Jai, Poppy, Avnee, Joe and Max.
Thanks to accompanying staff member, Kim, for organising transport and the Year 10 Music class for being so charming, sharing their musical talents with the residents of St Francis Villa in such a generous way. You brightened many people's day. Special shout-out to the elderly resident who went all the way back to his room to put on his Christmas glasses just to make us smile!
Sarah Nicholls
Music Teacher
Diocesan Golf Championships
On Monday, 11th November six McAuley students travelled to South West Rocks Golf Club to compete in the Diocesan Golf Championships.
Teams Coordinator/ Coach
Year 10 Work Experience
All Year 10 students are reminded that compulsory Work Experience is fast approaching. Students should have made enquiries by now, to attend work places from December 2 until December 6, especially if they are considering travelling interstate.
Work Experience is a valuable opportunity to assist students with the planning of their career path. It is also a great chance for students who intend to leave school, to showcase their abilities to prospective employers. We have been discussing these positives along with how to approach employees and the documents needed in Career Classes.
All the necessary guidelines and permission forms can be assessed on our Career website. The required documents were due by Friday 15 November.
Document Due Dates
Now is a great time for students to check their QTAC Application for outstanding documents.
Students must log in and click 'Outstanding Documents', where they can upload their documents directly to their application. If they are experiencing trouble submitting additional documents for their QTAC Application, please follow qtac.edu.au/documentation
To be on time for the upcoming offer rounds, applicants should submit their supporting documents by the following dates:
15 November Offer Round
Offers will be released on Friday, 15 November, for Queensland University of Technology and Griffith University for participating courses for Year 12 students. These offers are based on
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Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) students who either are completing at least five ATAR General subjects have completed AQF VET Diploma
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International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme students on an IB Diploma study plan QCE
23 December Offer Round
The first offer round is on 23 December, during which current Year 12 applicants can be considered for an offer based on their ATAR results.
Please note: not all courses will participate in this offer round. For more information on course offer dates and vacancies, click here.
Minimum Age Matters
More students are trying to apply for tertiary courses too early. We are seeing an increasing number of Year 10 and 11 students submitting applications.
For most institutions, students will not be considered for a course until they have met the minimum age requirement and/or completed Year 12.
While a student might be eligible for a course in Year 11, if the course is an audition-based application, if they do not meet the minimum age requirement, they may not be eligible for an offer.
Before applying for tertiary study, students should check the institution's minimum age requirements information on the QTAC website.
Learn more about admissions criteria.
Top tips for students to keep cool and mindful at the end of Year 12
We're at the pointy end of year for Year 12 students so we've put some top tips together for students to keep a cool headspace.
Careers in Health Information Evening
When: Wednesday 20th November, 5:30 - 7:30pm
Where: Charles Sturt University, Port Macquarie
Join us on the Port Macquarie campus in November to get a real-world look into a wide range of health careers. Hear from a range of healthcare professionals, from pharmacists, podiatrists and pathologists to nurses, dentists to physiotherapists.
Learn about health careers from the front-line workers living, breathing, and making a difference in health, and chat with health academics at our mini expo! Current high school students, school leavers, those looking for a career change, TAFE students, parents, carers, and career advisers are all welcome to attend.
Local healthcare teams from Mid North Coast Local Health District, Ramsay Health Care and Garden Village Port Macquarie will join us.
Rod Paton
Careers Advisor
Dear Families,
Do you sometimes feel like you're running on a hamster wheel trying to keep up with all the 'to-do' list items? Are you craving a bit of peace and quiet? Are you looking for an opportunity to spend a bit of quality time with your children? Maybe you're feeling blessed beyond measure and want to find a way to express the gratitude you feel? Have you ever pondered on the mysteries of life and want to find answers? If any of this strikes a chord with you, we might have just the thing you're looking for!
You are all joyfully invited to celebrate what we hope will become a regular fixture each term - a family Mass. If it's been ages since you last set foot in a Church, are a bit worried that you don't know the words, or are feeling a bit awkward about the Catholic aerobics of when to sit, stand or kneel, put those worries to one side and allow us to help you to feel comfortable and welcome. Come along and step out of the hustle and bustle of daily life to allow yourself a little bit of quality quiet time to reset and be spiritually nourished and recharged.
We hope you can join us at 5.15 pm on Tuesday, November 26th, at St Mary's Catholic Church, Victoria Street, Grafton. We look forward to bringing our community together and sharing this time with you and your children.
God bless,
The Mission Team
Dear Parents and Carers,
The Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools in consultation with schools, students, and parents, has developed a new system approach to account for student drivers travelling to and from schools and therefore has implemented a new process for McAuley students' applications for permission to drive to school. Previously students would collect a hard copy form from the office, complete and have their parent/guardian sign to provide consent for driving themselves to and from school. Parents are now expected to digitally complete the form and provide consent via Compass following these instructions:
Compass App Users
- Navigate to the "More" icon at the bottom right of the app
- Click on the School Documentation tile
- Navigate to the 'Parent Resources' folder and select the 'School Forms' folder
- Select Student Rider/Driver Registration Form
Desktop Users
- Navigate to the Community Icon (two people) and Click School Documentation
- Select Parent 'Resources' folder> 'School Forms' folder> 'Student Driver/Rider Registration Form'
- Click 'Open Link'
The form is secure and fillable and must be signed by the parent/guardian in order to be processed and permission to drive granted to your child. This register will remain active until the student signs out of school or there is a change in circumstance.
We thank you for your understanding as we navigate through these changes together.
Whooping Cough Update
Across NSW there have been 21,032 cases of pertussis reported to date, compared with 875 cases in total across NSW last year.
The highest rates of whooping cough notifications across NSW this year have been in children aged 5-14 years.
Information For Parents and Carers
Whooping cough is an illness that usually starts like a cold. It spreads very easily between people. It can cause a bad cough which gets worse and may last for many weeks.
While anyone can get whooping cough, newborns and babies are most at risk of gettingvery sick. Whooping cough caught at school or childcare can be spread to family members at home.
People with whooping cough can infect others for up to 3 weeks. Early treatment with antibiotics can reduce how long it can be spread to others.
Vaccinated children can still get sick, although their illness may be less severe.
What You Can Do
If your child has whooping cough:
- let your school or childcare centre know
- keep your child home for 5 days after they start antibiotics, or 21 days after their cough starts if they are not taking antibiotics
- keep your child away from babies and pregnant women. Whooping cough can make babies very sick.
Whooping cough vaccination is available for free under the National Immunisation Program at your local GP, AMS or pharmacy.
For more information visit the NSW Health Website or see the flyer below.
November
26th: HEAL Boys Boomerang Making Workshop
27th: Mercy House Rewards Day
December:
2nd - 6th: Year 10 Work Experience Week
3rd: Inter-Schools Wheelchair Basketball
Yr 10 Commerce Excursion
4th: Yr 11 Hospitality Excursion to Botero
5th: Yr 9 Commerce Market Day at MCC
5th-6th: QLD University Excursion
6th: Yr 9 Commerce Excursion
Yr 10 Music Excursion
HEAL Boys Cultural Walk
9th: Yr 11 CFIA Active Volunteering at The Hub Grafton
10th: Yr 11 Business Studies Excursion
12th: Student Leadership Day at the Mercy Centre
16th: Advent Liturgy & Prizegiving Practice
17th: Advent Liturgy & Prizegiving Assembly
EOY Activites Commence (after Prizegiving)
18th: EOY Activities
Graduated Yr 12 Morning Tea (11am)
HSC Results Released
Last Day for Students
As mentioned in our previous newsletters, the College offers lunch orders online through the Flexischools app. Please see the attached flyer to get started.
Please find attached the latest Parish Bulletins from Clarence Valley Parish