Newsletter 5: Monday 10 June 2024

For the Calendar

Week 7

• Monday 10/06/24: King's Birthday Public Holiday
• Tuesday 11/06/24: Year 10 Assessment Block begins
  
• Wednesday 12/06/24: Phil Tobins Cup Open Boys Rugby League (TBC), Community Access Excursion
• Thursday 13/06/24: Year 12 English Extension 1 Study Day, Parent Group Meeting (5:45pm for a 6pm start)
  

Week 8

• Monday 17/06/24: Year 10 Assessment Block continues, Year 7/8 FNC All Schools Touch Football (TBC)
• Tuesday 18/06/24: Year 9/10 FNC All Schools Touch Football (TBC)
• Wednesday 19/06/24: Diocesan Junior Football (TBC), Len Diett Gala Day U13 and U15 Boys (TBC), Cultural Literacy Program
  
• Friday 21/06/24: Year 8 French Cafe
  

Week 9

• Monday 24/06/24: Year 10 (Year 11 2025) Subject Selection Interviews, Year 7-9 Police Liaison Talks
• Tuesday 25/06/24: Year 9 & 10 White Card Course, Year 7 & 10 Bell Shakespeare, Cochrane Cup Rugby League Final (TBC), Phil Tobins Rugby League Final (TBC)
• Wednesday 26/06/24: McAuley House Liturgy, Community Access Excursion
• Thursday 27/06/24: Year 7 2025 Second-Round Offers sent, Year 7 Pastoral Day (TBC), Year 10 PASS Excursion to SCU Lismore
• Thursday 27/06/24 - Sunday 30/06/24: Street Retreat
  

Week 10

• Monday 01/07/24: Year 10 (Year 11 2025) Subject Selections due, Year 8 (Year 9 2025) Subject Selections due, Year 10 Youth Ministry Visit to SFX Primary
  
• Wednesday 03/07/24: Year 11 Pastoral Day with Chris Doyle, NAIDOC Festival, NRCC Netball (TBC)
• Thursday 04/07/24: Year 9 Pastoral Day with Christ Doyle, Championship Field Athletics 
• Friday 05/07/24: Championship Track Athletics, Final Day of Term 2
  

To see our full Term Planner, click here.

Principal's Message

Dear Parents, Carers, Students and Friends of the Xavier Catholic College Community,

We have now reached the end of Week 6, Term 2, with four weeks remaining this term. Across the College, quality learning and teaching is taking place, with students preparing for and sitting exams, planning and creating assessments, and diligently working on performances and practical tasks. It is always a pleasure to walk into our classroom and witness the engagement being shown by students and their understanding of the work they are doing and how to achieve success.

As I indicated earlier this term in the College Newsletter, students in each class are being asked four important questions:

• What are you learning? Why?

• How are you going with your learning?

• How do you know?

• Where do you go for help?

This information demonstrates to us the students taking responsibility in their learning and how their engagement can significantly shape their outcomes and ultimately their success. A failure to ‘get on the learning bus’ means students are stranded and less likely to achieve academic success. This can only be turned around with a positive shift in engagement levels and a can-do attitude.

I once again take this opportunity to congratulate the students in our College who each and every day are making a difference by doing the best they can to improve academically. The ‘core business’ of the College centres on quality teaching and learning and this is enhanced when students work hard to achieve their goals and work towards their potential. 

Showing Pride

One of the things that has particularly struck me this term, when talking to many of our students across the College campus, is their pride in their College. They have told me how much they enjoy being a member of the College, how much the staff care for them, and the unlimited opportunities the College can offer.

One of the ways in which our students visibly demonstrate their pride in their College and a sense of belonging to the College community is in the wearing of their school uniform. I’ve been pretty impressed with how smart many of our students look in their winter College uniform and I ask that this continues into the remainder of 2024. 

Unfortunately, some students continue to let us down by wearing their uniform poorly and without the required pride. Even more disappointing is that these same students need constant reminders about the correct uniform. I have to ask, why is this the case? 

From Tuesday 11 June (Week 7, term 2), any students out of uniform after an initial warning will be subject to a lunchtime detention. We make no excuses for this stance on uniform. It is one area of the College that needs attention and the students not wearing their uniforms correctly will be sanctioned until their uniform improves to the correct standard.

I’d like to thank parents and carers for your support in ensuring that we maintain high standards of College uniform and would encourage you to take every opportunity to talk with your child and build a genuine sense of pride in wearing the uniform as an expression of their pride in belonging to our College community. 

Respect

Continually I try to impress upon the students the importance of respect and the notion of emotional intelligence. I do this because I strongly believe that one of the most important things we can teach our students is respect and managing their emotions.

“Values such as respect are the seeds from which all behaviour grows.” This quote drives our agenda to ensure our College is ‘value-centred’ and respect is threefold – respect for self; respect for others; and; respect for our place/our College.

Research clearly shows that students who demonstrate compassion, respect, responsibility, perseverance, initiative, and integrity have parents/mentors who demonstrate these qualities on a regular basis. 

We need to keep in mind that respect is not the same as obedience. If our students/your children respect you, they will obey because they know you want what's best for them.

The best way for us to teach respect to our students is to show respect. When a student experiences respect, they know what it feels like and begin to understand how important it is.

Respect is a valued attitude. Being respectful helps a student succeed in life. If students don't have respect for peers, authority, or themselves, it's almost impossible for them to succeed.

Research shows parents have the most influence on how respectful children become. Until children show respect at home, it's unlikely they will show it anywhere else.

How can you show respect to your child?

• Be honest - If you do something wrong, admit it and apologise.
• Be positive - Don't embarrass, insult or make fun of your child. Compliment them.
• Be trusting - Let your child make choices and take responsibility.
• Be fair - Listen to your child's side of the story before reaching a conclusion.
• Be polite - Use "please" and "thank you".
• Be reliable - Keep promises. Show your child that you mean what you say.
• Be a good listener - Give your child your full attention.

Children learn from everything we say and do. Make sure that you are modelling respectful behaviour. Some things you can do are:

• Obey & follow rules.
• Be caring - Show concern for people, animals and the environment.
• Avoid poor role models - When you see examples of disrespect, discuss them.
• Teach your child to respect themselves. Self-respect is one of the most important forms of respect. Once we respect ourselves, it is easier to respect others.

Your opinion means a lot to your child. If you believe your child can succeed, they will believe they can as well.

Build their independence. Give them responsibilities as soon as they can handle them. Help them set and achieve goals. Their self-respect will skyrocket when they see themselves achieving those goals.

Encourage honesty. Let your child know that they may be able to fool some people, but they can't fool themselves. There is no pride in stealing, cheating, or lying.

Most importantly, show love! Say 'I love you" often and give plenty of hugs and kisses. If your child makes a mistake, remind them that they are still loved.

Social Media

I request all parents and carers to monitor their son’s and daughter’s use of social media platforms. I understand this is a ‘big ask’. Recently we have been informed of improper social media sites being set up in the College name. This has the potential to seriously damage the quality reputation and name of the College by the content being placed on these sites. Please impress upon your son/daughter the detrimental, long-term effect their inappropriate postings can have. Their ‘digital footprint’ lasts forever – what type of ‘digital footprint’ is your child laying down?

Please contact me immediately if you have any details that can assist us in shutting down these sites.

Xavier Parent Group Meeting

The next meeting of the Xavier Parent Group will take place on Thursday 13 June from 5:45pm to 7pm in the Staff Common Room in the main Administration Block (access via the Front Office). Join us for an opportunity to meet the new College Principal, learn about the Consistent Classroom Climate initiative, receive an overview of the recent Tell Them From Me parent survey findings, contribute to a discussion about future parent community functions, and offer some thoughts about how the College can celebrate its 25 Year Jubilee in 2025 – an action-packed meeting! Please register using the details on the flyer below.

Drinks and nibbles will kick off the meeting from 5:45pm. You are very welcome to attend and participate!

Last Day of Term

A reminder that all classes conclude on Friday 5 July at 3:15pm for our Year 7 – Year 12 students. All students are expected to attend classes until the end of Term 2. We all need to finish each term strongly and work in a sustained fashion until the last period of the final day of term. I request that parents / carers wishing for their son / daughter to finish the term prior to Friday 5 July email me in advance to request leave for your child.

Term 3 Commencement Date

Students return to the College to commence Term 3 on Tuesday 23 July 2024. Monday 22 July is a staff professional learning day at the College. No student supervision is provided on this day.

Enrolment for 2025

It would be greatly appreciated if parents/carers could notify me at the College as soon as possible if your son/daughter will not be attending Xavier Catholic College in 2025. We have a number of applications for places at the College for 2025 and it would be good to be able to offer places where known vacancies will be occurring. If you are relocating or moving your child to another school, please notify us. Thank you.

Finally, thank you again for your support and encouragement, both of which I value.

I wish you God’s blessings always. May Jesus Christ and St Francis Xavier continue to guide us and inspire us on our journey.

Mr Lee MacMaster
College Principal

Assistant Principal: Learning & Teaching

It has been another busy and exciting period for learning and teaching at the College.  Of particular note was the Year 10 Parent Information Evening regarding subject selection for Stage 6.  This was a wonderful opportunity to partner with our parent community in guiding our students as they consider their purpose, passion and pathway.

At the College, our teaching team work diligently to provide academic care for all students. This involves enhancing student learning and wellbeing through support processes and pedagogies that are empathetic to student needs and embedded in learning experiences. Learning programs and pastoral support are aligned and mutually supportive. 

What does this look like in our College?

• Relationships as the foundation of learning and wellbeing
• Clear communication and learning routines that build familiarity, confidence and independence
• Holistic education with students at the centre of everything we do

The staff strive to create a culture of learning and a community where each person is known and valued within a Jesuit tradition of a faith that does justice. “We strive to develop conscientious leaders and agents of change who are intellectually competent, open to growth, committed to justice, and compassionate in service to others for the greater glory of God.”

Our sincere wish is that every student enjoys their school experience, develops a sense of curiosity, is open to learning, and desires to be co-creators of a better future.

Parent Partnership for Learning

One way to support your child in their learning is to know when they have summative assessment tasks.  This can be achieved by using the Compass calendar to keep track of when tasks are scheduled.  You can also ask your child to show you their Task Notifications which are visible on their Google Classrooms. Parents have an important role to support their children with time management and to encourage them to engage in regular revision.  

Following assessment tasks, all students are provided with feedback on their learning.  Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss this feedback and support students to know the next steps for their learning growth and help them to set learning goals.

The College is working towards more progressive reporting using Compass. Our goal is to afford parents more ongoing access to information regarding their child’s learning growth throughout the semester. In this way, we hope to foster family school partnerships which better support student learning.

Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences

One of the ways we foster school-parent partnerships is through Parent/Teacher/Student Conferences.  Most recently we welcomed many parents of Year 11 and 12 students to meet with teachers to discuss their students’ progress. It was very pleasing to feel the community spirit in the Magis undercroft and the buzz of conversations. 

Year 10 Assessment Block

Year 10 Assessment Block commences on Tuesday 11 June, and will conclude on Thursday 20 June. All students have received an examination timetable and attended an examination briefing. Students are reminded to complete and submit an Absence from Assessment form (available on the College website under the Learning Tab/Assessment Information/Year 10) if they are unable to attend a scheduled examination due to illness or misadventure. Supporting documentation is required to be submitted with the form in order for special consideration to be given for individual circumstances.

Subject Selections

Students in Years 8 and 10 are reminded to consider the upcoming subject selections which will occur in Week 10. Subject Selection Handbooks and Subject Selection Websites are linked on the school website for both year levels. Parents and Guardians are strongly encouraged to discuss subject selections with their child and to use the information provided to support the discernment process.

If you have not already done so, parents and guardians of Year 10 students are encouraged to book an appointment for a conference with a Leader of Learning, which is scheduled on 24 June (Week 9). To book, please click here.

School Reports

Year 11 reports were made available via Compass on Friday 7 June. Students were provided an overview of their progress, with commendations and recommendations provided by their teachers.

Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 reports will be issued early in Term 3. 

Year 11 & 12 Award Ceremonies

It was with great pleasure we recognised and congratulated our Year 12 students over the previous weeks, presenting Academic Excellence and Consistent Effort Awards. Congratulations to all students who were recipients of Mid-Course awards. Year 11 Awards will be presented on Friday 14 June; we look forward to celebrating the diligent application and learning success of our wonderful Year 11 cohort.

Ms Carmel Zuino

Assistant Principal: Mission

Pentecost Until the Feast of Corpus Christi

In the past four weeks, we celebrated several important feast days. We received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, returned to Ordinary Time, and honoured the Feast of Corpus Christi.

In today’s world, we see a growing need for the spirit of Pentecost. As educators, we have the chance to inspire our students through the gifts of wisdom, understanding, and courage. These gifts help us live with purpose and compassion, creating an environment where all students feel loved and supported. We aim to be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, enriching our lives and those of our students, and fostering hope and connection within our school.

We had returned to Ordinary Time in the liturgical calendar. However, this past Sunday and the Sunday before were solemnities, which highlighted central mysteries of our faith. On the first Sunday after Pentecost, we celebrated the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, which reminded us of our belief in one God in three Persons. As baptised Christians, we shared in the life of the Trinity and sought to invite others to experience God’s love.

The Feast of Corpus Christi celebrated Christ’s gift of the Eucharist. This feast focused on Christ’s presence in the bread and wine, symbolising our true faith.

Reconciliation Week

From 27 May to 3 June, Xavier Catholic College observed National Reconciliation Week (NRW), a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how we can contribute to reconciliation in Australia. During our Sorry Day assembly in Week 4, we recognised and educated about the difficulties of the past and focused on the work we need to do to continue the spirit of reconciliation. A heartfelt thank you to the students and staff involved in the preparation and presentation of this meaningful assembly.

Photo Day

Thank you to our parents for your ongoing support leading up to Photo Day, ensuring our students met the high standards of uniform and personal presentation. We encourage you to maintain this commitment every day as we strive to uphold the high standards our College requires.

Proclaim Day Thanks

The College would like to extend our thanks to all our families for your support in keeping your children home last Wednesday. This allowed our college staff to fully engage in the Proclaim Lismore Staff 2024 event hosted here at Xavier Catholic College. This event provided a valuable opportunity for us to strengthen our community bonds and be reinvigorated with prayer, purpose, and passion towards our mission.

The word community in Catholic vocabulary translates as ‘communio’—the ‘work’ in building up the People of God. Community has a special meaning within the Catholic School. Our College community forms a subset of the wider ecclesial communion that is centred in the Parish as a project of the Catholic Church. Therefore, teachers and all college staff build up students in faith within the context of the wider church; one community within another.

As we move forward this month, we are focusing on the essence of our mission: the community. We encourage each family to live the gospel values daily and invite you all to attend our Parish mass each weekend as we explore and celebrate the purpose of our mission within our local communities.

Mr Peter Fear

Pastoral Care

The sign of some of the greatest cultures is the openness and willingness to change. To grow and learn from error, experience and success. As an avid Rugby Union fan, I am always (unfortunately) drawn to the All Blacks who, for years, have demonstrated that the best team on earth still has to want to improve. That in each win, there are still opportunities for growth, and that this can only be achieved when all members of the organisation are moving toward the same goal.

Over the past two weeks, Mr Peter Fear and I have had the opportunity to address each Year Group within the College, focusing on key areas. The topics varied for each group, but all fell under the same three categories: Uniform, Respectful Communication, and Appropriate Use of Technology. I present the following as potential discussion points for your family. It's important to remember that promoting respectful communication is a shared responsibility between the school and parents, and open dialogue about this topic is encouraged:

Uniform: We are proud to belong to the Xavier Catholic College community. One of the ways to distinguish ourselves is by wearing the College uniform. By doing so with pride, our students show this pride and can belong to something that is greater than any individual. One of the talking points outlined that each community member is a temporary custodian of the legacy of the College. By adhering to the expectations of uniform, this legacy is promoted and improved for those who will experience it long after we’ve moved on. The expectations for uniforms are written clearly in the Student Planner and on the College Website. Parental support is greatly appreciated when issues of incorrect uniforms are communicated home.

Respectful Communication: A cornerstone of our Catholic tradition, as exemplified by Jesus, is the practice of love without regard to class, status, wealth, creed, or colour. A significant aspect of this practice within the College is our communication with one another. We encourage students to initiate polite conversations with staff as they navigate the College. Our aim is for a Xavier Catholic College graduate to leave with the confidence and competence to engage with the world. One way to foster this is by greeting people when you meet them. Students have been encouraged to do this with their peers and staff. Another important aspect of respectful communication is how we handle situations where unexpected behaviours are addressed. We have asked students to engage with staff in a respectful manner, especially when they are asked to address their behaviour. This is a significant strategy for personal growth in challenging times.

Appropriate Use of Technology: This is perhaps the most significant challenge of the 21st Century in schools. Our students are fortunate to have technology readily available. With this privilege comes the responsibility to use it wisely. All students have been reminded of the College Mobile Device Policy, which requires all devices (including phones, tablets, AirPods, smartwatches, and computers) to be used appropriately on school premises. It's worth noting that phones and AirPods are not to be used within the College unless under specific direction and supervision. Students seen accessing this technology will receive a Wednesday Afternoon Detention. Parents/Guardians can support the College by refraining from communicating with their children via mobile technology during the school day. Urgent messages can be passed through College Reception as required.

Consistent Classroom Climate

Commencing in Term 3, there will be a renewed focus on developing consistent classroom expectations across the College. The aim of this is to ensure that students can focus on the business of learning and pro-social connection at school, rather than worrying about how the next lesson will begin and end. All students will be expected to commence and end each lesson utilising the steps in the poster below:

This work is founded in research on Behavioural Expectations for Students (AERO, 2023) and aims to create a highly consistent learning environment for all students across the College.We are greatly looking forward to seeing this idea become a reality over the coming weeks and I would welcome any feedback or questions you may have (nick.jones@lism.catholic.edu.au, 02 6618 0180).

Year 8 Pastoral Week

Week 6 saw our Year 8 cohort enjoy a week away from regular programming to experience different learning experiences at school and in the idyllic setting of Tyalgum Ridge Retreat.

Once the students have had a chance to thaw out and recharge, I look forward to sharing some of their thoughts on the experience in the next newsletter. 

The week is completed with male and female students separated from one another. The program contains a two-day Pastoral Program at school and a three-day Outdoor Education Program at Tyalgum.

It would be remiss of me not to thank the students for their participation and our Year 8 parents for supporting this wonderful experience. Most importantly, I offer my deepest gratitude to our wonderful staff who accompanied our students this week. They are as follows:

Pastoral Program (male): Mr Julian White, Mr John Cunynghame & Mr Anthony Colman

Pastoral Program (female): Mrs Kate Kilby, Mrs Rebecca Kennedy & Mrs Naomi Byrnes

Camp (female): Ms Nichole Page, Ms Dana Barnsley, Ms Nattalie Chreenan, Ms Sophie Day, Mrs Joanne Scotcher & Ms Rachael Peters

Camp (male): Mr Michael Raeburn, Mr Joel Jukes, Mr Sam Rogers, Mr Ben Arthurs, Mr Luiz Silva De Araujo.

The entire College Admin team also put in a mountain of work for these experiences and make the work of teachers so much more achievable. Thank you all for your keen eye for detail and work behind the scenes.

I would like to make a special mention of Mrs Rebecca Kennedy, who has carried the lion’s share of the work in making the Year 8 Pastoral so successful. These tasks certainly don’t go unnoticed.

Without the dedication of these amazing educators, experiences like these wouldn’t be possible. Thank you to each of them for generously giving their time to our young people.

Year 8 Camp

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As always, if there is anything that I can do for you, please do not hesitate to contact me at the College.

Mr Nick Jones
Leader of Pastoral Care

Catechesis & Evangelisation

Festa Christi

Applications are now open for Festa Christi 2023, a discipleship gathering exclusively for Year 8 students!

Festa Christi is one of the Proclaim Lismore Discipleship Gatherings that occur every year for students from Year 4 to Year 12. It's a time of reflection, prayer and faith, teaching our students to learn more about social justice and walking in the shoes of others. There are also some great outdoor challenges to explore the themes of helping others, growing in our relationships and making a difference. This two-day retreat is completely free for all participants.

Students can apply for one of our allocated places at Festa Christi via the link: 2024 Festa Christi EOI

For more information check out:

• Festa Christi Boys' video or
• Festa Christi girls' video

Applications now open for the Diocesan Shine Gathering

Shine is the largest of the annual Youth Gatherings organised by the Diocese of Lismore.  It is held annually in Coffs Harbour. It is an overnight gathering of Youth Ministry Classes and Senior Ministry Team leaders from across our diocese. Shine offers students an opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ and the Church, to experience dynamic faith, to be equipped for ministry and living the Christian life, and to be empowered to impact the Church and the world. It is an opportunity to gather and share an experience of faith.

All Year 10 Youth Ministry students are expected to attend SHINE.  Students in Years 9, 11 and 12 are also welcome to apply to represent Xavier Catholic College at Shine. Year 9 students who can demonstrate an interest in Ministry activities are invited to apply. Senior students, typically those who are active in the Senior Ministry Team, are invited to attend Shine as Small Group Leaders.  

For students in Years 9, 11 and 12, Shine is an optional event. 

The 2024 Shine gathering will be held on Thursday 22 August and Friday 23 August. Consent, medical information and a $50 co-payment are required from applicants very soon. This very early submission date is required because of the scale of the Shine event and the very busy schedule of Youth Gatherings currently being organised by the Catholic Schools Office.  

Students and parents can learn more about Shine from this video link: Shine Video 2022

Students in Years 9, 11 and 12 interested in attending Shine should see Mr Eyles or the College Youth Minister, Brendon Clarke.

Lunch Prayer

Lunch prayer has had a revamp over Term 2. We are holding our prayer time every Wednesday lunch in the Chapel with time for activities, community, prayer and reflection. Week 3 saw the students learn about praying the Rosary. Praying the rosary is a peaceful practice that offers solace and connection through its rhythmic repetition and deep contemplation. The students had an opportunity to feel this connection as we prayed one decade together. Under the guidance of the College Youth Minister, Brendon, the students then made a decade of the rosary which they could attach to their keyring or bag to take with them. 

Students are blessed to have the opportunity to celebrate prayer together over their lunch time and we thank all students who take time from their busy schedules to come together in this worship.

Subject Selection

Year 10 students are currently in the process of discerning subject selections for Years 11 and 12. At Xavier Catholic College, students must complete at least one course in Religious Education (a complete course is of two years duration). Students may elect to move from Studies of Religion II to Studies of Religion I at the end of Year 11 provided they maintain a minimum of ten units of study. It is not possible for students to change from any Studies of Religion course to Catholic Faith in Action, other than in exceptional circumstances, as they are distinct courses. 

The courses offered at Xavier Catholic College are:

• Studies of Religion I (1 unit course)
• Studies of Religion II (2 unit course)
• Catholic Faith in Action + Certificate II in Active Volunteering (1 unit course)

Students who are strong in English and the Humanities (e.g. History) are usually better prepared for Studies of Religion. A student on a non-ATAR pattern of study will probably find Catholic Faith in Action a better option for them. Please speak to your Religion teacher, a Studies of Religion or Catholic Faith in Action teacher, or Dr Beveridge or Ms Brown for more information about each of the religion courses on offer and what might be the best option for you or your child. 

Mr David Eyles & Dr Madeline Beveridge

College News

Year 10 Child Studies

Holy Family Visits for Insights on Children & Technology

Students had the wonderful opportunity to visit Holy Family School, where they explored the integration of technology in early childhood education. This enriching experience focused on understanding how technology is utilised in the three kindergarten rooms at Holy Family.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by the staff and the enthusiastic kindergarteners. The very experienced staff emphasised how interactive tools and educational software can enhance young children's learning experiences, making education more engaging and effective.

Throughout the two visits, our students observed various technological applications in action. In one classroom, children were using tablets to play educational games that developed their numeracy and literacy skills. Another room showcased an interactive whiteboard where teachers conducted dynamic lessons, encouraging active participation from the young learners. A ‘hover-cam’ captured our attention as one of the teachers modelled writing and students learnt new skills in literacy.

The Year 10 students had the chance to interact with the students, assisting them with various activities and observing their responses. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into the benefits and challenges of using technology in early childhood education. It also highlighted the importance of balancing screen time with traditional play and learning methods to ensure a well-rounded development.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Holy Family teachers Ms Winkler, Ms Pieper and Ms Regan for their hospitality and for providing such a valuable learning opportunity. This visit has undoubtedly inspired our students to think creatively about the future of education and the potential of technology to shape young minds.

Thank you to Ms Nai-Ari Conlan for assisting with the experience. 

Mrs Naomi Byrnes
Child Studies Teacher

Chess News

On Thursday 4 April, a group of students from Xavier College competed in the NSW Northern Rivers Inter-Schools Chess Competition held at Emmanuel Anglican College.  The team, comprising Keanu Cosgrove, Maximums Davy, Antoni Druzynski, Frederick Godman, Fynn Jaszewski, Harry Jones, Jye Miller, Ryder Price, Max Sharpe, Tyler Starkey, and Alexander Whalan, competed against schools across the region and actually won the Term 1 Northern Rivers region school chess tournament.

In addition, Harry Jones from Year 7 won the overall individual title, competing against students up to Years 11 and 12. 

A huge congratulations to Harry and the team of students from Xavier. This is an outstanding achievement. A big thank you to Mr Rogers, who supervised the team on the day of the competition. 

A Chess Club has recently started at XCC. Interested students can play and learn each week at lunchtime. If you would like to join the Chess Club, come along to the Library on Tuesdays at lunchtime or email Miss Quinn for more information. 

Ms Georgia Quinn
Leader of Co-Curricular

Line Dancing Achievements

A number of XCC students have been preparing for The World Dance Masters World Championship competition in the UK in just 5 weeks' time.

One notable achievement is from Dusty Emmanuel in Year 9. After recently competing in Melbourne, Dusty came away with 16 medals in total — more than 7 of which were gold. 

We congratulate Dusty and the other XCC line dancers on their amazing achievements.

Year 10 Ministry Visit to Holy Family

On 21 May, the Year 10 Ministry Class went to Holy Family Catholic Primary School to run a ministry program with Year 4 students. The theme of the program was ‘Gratitude’, to be grateful for all the blessings God gives us.

The visit involved icebreaker activities, testimonial sharing from all Year 10s, small groups, a drama, singing and more. It was a huge success and the Year 4 students had an amazing time. Our students had a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate leadership and build community and connections with students and staff in one of our parish primary schools.

Thank you to Holy Family for allowing the Year 10s to do their part in spreading the Good News.

Mrs Leanne Broadley & Mr Brendon Clarke

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Sport News

Australian National Interschools Surfing Championships (Gold Coast, May 22-24)

The Xavier Catholic College journey to the Australian National Interschools Surfing Championships began with a tour of the Surfing High Performance Centre (HPC) in Casuarina. The students were exposed to all the centre facilities and learned all aspects of a professional surfer/athlete's life. Following the HPC visit, the students experienced a surf at the famous D’bah break before moving onto the opening ceremony in Broadbeach. This was a very strong cultural event, allowing students to listen to guest speakers from all aspects of the surfing industry. 

The surfing championships started at 8am on Thursday at Miami Beach Gold Coast. Both our open boys and girls tag teams progressed confidently through their heats and into the finals. With a number of quality scoring waves, both teams finished 4th in their respective competitions and were the only ‘non-sporting excellence’ teams in the finals. 

The Junior boys made the semis, with a very strong 24 schools in their competition. 

The individual events were a challenging experience for all surfers, with only the winner making it through to the progressive rounds, our team captain Harry O’brien finished 5th of 100 competitors in the most eventful final, we thought his aerial 360 was enough to take the crown. Magnificent effort Harry.

Overall, Xavier College finished 9th out of 26 schools in the national event. The students were so respectful and supportive of each other throughout the entire duration. Just to finish off with a bang, Lily Beadham won a new JS surfboard to add to her quiver. 

The Team: Harry O’Brien, Blake Wells, Josh Thomas, Joe Tancred, Owen Kilby, Reuben Sharpe, Jye Paxton, Jenson Faulks, Bodie Fox, Calvin Greely, Bede Francis, Lily Beadham, Billie Cook-Slevin, Marli Francis, Charlie Hudson, & Matilda Mundey.

Coach: Mr Clint McCarthy 

NSWCCC Boys Tennis

The Xavier Catholic College Open Boys Tennis Team proudly represented the Diocese at the NSWCCC State Tennis Championships held in Bathurst NSW on Monday 3 June. In freezing conditions and after an unexpected start to the day, the boys demonstrated determination, exceptional skill and teamwork to win the Plate Final and secure an impressive 5th Place in NSWCCC. A huge congratulations to the Open Boys Tennis team on their achievements and special thank you to their wonderful parents for their dedication to this event under challenging circumstances.

Mr Pat Kennedy

NSWCCC Football 

Congratulations to Callie Gollan, Sophie Ranyard, Lucy Bill, Sophie Maiden, Jack Groves, Nelson Stock and Cooper Keane who travelled to Glenwood, Sydney to represent the Lismore Diocese at the NSWCCC State Football Championships. 

Ms Emily Keys

Individual Achievements

Congratulations to Lilly Short, who recently travelled to Sydney and was selected for the NSWCCC Under 18 Girls Basketball team.

This is a huge achievement. Well done, Lilly!

She will represent her State at the NSW All Schools tournament later in June.

Congratulations to Keira McCowan, who has been selected for the NAIDOC Cup Under 14 Girls Football Team to play at Speers Point, NSW, in the July School holidays. Well over forty talented girls tried out for this team, and Keira has now been selected for the second year in a row! This is an amazing achievement. Good luck, Keira.

Congratulations to Amy Bailey who has been selected in the NSW State Boxing Team. What a fantastic achievement, Amy. Well done!

Congratulations to Alexander Crimmins who placed 11th at National Athletics in the Under 18 Men's Triple Jump. An incredible result Alex — well done.

Congratulations to Jake Hamilton who was a member of the NSWCCC Under 15 Boys Hockey team that played at the NSW All Schools Hockey Championships in Newcastle on the 6th and 7th of June. An amazing achievement Jake, well done.

Mr Pat Kennedy

Diocesan Cross Country

It was a very wet Cross Country track at Grafton on Friday the 17th of May and after travelling through torrential rain on the way down the students arrived to sunshine at McAuley Catholic College. All students and staff had to walk the picturesque  track, with the curious cows looking on before it was time to tighten up the laces and start racing. The Xavier team had outstanding results on the day with a number of medals being awarded and for the first time in College history Xavier was the overall winning school on the day. Listed are the students' placings and their impressive times. The students are to be commended for their commardiere, sportsmanship and behaviour throughout the day. It was a pleasure to travel with the team and we thank Mr G Smith, Ms T Paton- Kelly, Ms E Keys and Mrs T Pinnock for travelling with the team.

Mrs Kate Kilby 

Congratulations to all of our College representative Cross Country runners; in particular, those in italics below, who placed in the Top 6 and have qualified for NSWCCC Cross Country in Sydney:

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NSWCCC Cross Country

In breaking news, the following students have placed in the Top 10 at NSWCCC Cross Country in Sydney and have qualified to represent their State at NSW All Schools Cross Country. Congratulations to our amazing State Cross Country Runners below:

• Isla Cleary
• Alexandra Dogan
• Tommy Behan
• Abigail Matthews
• William Schmid
• Skye Dogan
• Tyler Dogan

NRCC Boys Hockey

The NRCC Hockey Competition took place on Tuesday, 14th May, at the Lismore Hockey Centre in Goonellabah. The team extends its gratitude to Ballina Hockey for generously providing their turf for our training sessions and some much-needed equipment.

A special thank you goes to Kelly Hamilton for her invaluable support, both in training the team and coaching on the day of the competition.

Our boys played exceptionally well, starting the day with a solid 2-0 victory against St Mary’s Casino. They faced tough competition from Mount St Pats, narrowly losing 2-1. In the match against Trinity's open boys team, the score remained 0-0 until the final moments when Trinity managed to score. The team showed great determination and grit in their final game against Woodlawn, which ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw. Congratulations to all the players for their excellent performance and sportsmanship!

Coach: Mrs Susan Horvath

Bill Turner Trophy Round 2 

The Bill Turner Girls football team won against Richmond Christian College. Our team dominated with an 8-0 win. Zoe led the charge with three goals, followed by Skye, Shaelie, and Verity each adding a goal to the scoreboard. The final goals were own goals, sealing the impressive victory for Xavier.

The efforts and sportsmanship of all teams were commendable, reflecting Xavier's commitment to excellence both on and off the field. Congratulations to all players and coaches for their hard work and dedication.

Coach: Ms Erin Buie

Ms Emily Keys

AFL QLD Cup Years 10-12

A spirited team of young female athletes travelled to Byron on 3 June to participate in the AFL QLD Schools Cup Gala Day. With grit and determination, these girls showcased their exceptional skills and unwavering dedication in three intense games. Despite their relentless efforts, the team narrowly missed out on advancing to the final, edged out by a narrow margin of points for and against. Nevertheless, they deserve hearty congratulations for impeccably representing our school amidst formidable competition.

Coach: Mrs Jess Ferris

The Open boys had a tough day, and although they tried hard, they lost all three matches.

2024 Winners of the Len Diett Shield Boys Rugby

Round 1 

On Friday 10 May Xavier hosted Woodlawn for Rd1 of the Len Diett Shield 1st XV for 2024. Xavier took an early lead of 26-0 at half time, demonstrating their dominance on the field. In the second half, Xavier managed to score 3 tries, closing out the game with a final score of 43-7. 

Emily Keys 

Round 2 

On Thursday 16 May, Xavier hosted the second round of the Len Diett Shield with both an Under 16 and Open Boys game vs Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School. Despite some early injuries, the Under 16 Xavier team showed off their skills and knowledge of the game, finishing with a 17-nil win. 

The Opens continued the win streak defeating Lindisfarne 17-5. 

Emily Keys 

Round 3

Round 3 of the Len Diett Shield took place on Tuesday 28 May at St John's College Woodlawn. The final whistle blew and the score was 17 - 17. There has never been a tied game in the Len Diett, so with some discussion from officials and team captains it was decided that the teams would play 5 minutes overtime. In an intense few minutes, with a brilliant intercept, Jed Lyon secured the win with a final score of 24-17.

Emily Keys 

Round 4 

On June 6 both the Xavier under 16s and Opens team travelled to Tweed Heads to defend their wins against Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar school in the Len Diett shield. Congratulations to the Xavier Catholic College Under 16s Boys Rugby Union team, who successfully defended their Len Diett Shield title. Winning in 2023 and again for 2024 the XCC team defeated Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School to secure the 2024 title. Amazing teamwork, with particular stand-out performances by the Tight 5 Forwards, led by Elijah Galloway, saw a result of 0 turnovers at the ruck. Stand-out back-line performers Eoin Shannon and Lex Izzard cut open the defences of their opponents, setting up multiple line breaks and scoring opportunities. Tries were scored by Lex Izzard, Eoin Shannon, Kirk Fox and Elijah Galloway. 

Coach - Mr Jermolajew

The XCC Open boys finished their undefeated season with a 19 - 10 victory over Lindisfarne, Fynn Jonsson being best on ground. 

Mr McCarthy

Cochrane Cup Under 14 Boys Rugby League 

The Cochrane Cup U14 Boys Rugby League Gala Day took place at Woodlawn on May 22nd. The boys, under the coaching of Mr Jukes, trained hard in preparation for the event. Captains Neveah Faifai and Harry Ranyard led the team admirably, showcasing great skill and determination on the field. Despite their valiant efforts, the team narrowly lost to the day's winners by just 2 points. Well done, boys, for your outstanding performance and teamwork.

Emily Keys

Country Cup Rugby League 

On Thursday, May 30th, Xavier's U13, U15, and Open boys Rugby League teams travelled to Tweed Heads to compete in the Country Cup Rugby League Gala Day. Congratulations to the Open Boys who won the day and now play in the Finals on Tuesday 18 June at Ballina.

The Opens Rugby League team demonstrated remarkable skill at the South Tweed Country Cup in Week 5. The team showcased exceptional teamwork, delivering a dominant performance in their first game against Banora Point High School, winning 32 - 0. The second game against Tweed River High School was much closer due to frequent errors. However, the boys showed great determination to hold on for a 16 - 8 win. Congratulations to the Opens team on their commitment to sportsmanship and representing their school with pride.              

Coach: Mr Anthony Colman

The Xavier Catholic College Boys Under 15 Rugby League team showed great fighting spirit at the 2024 Country Cup. Despite going down by 4 tries to 1 in their first match against Murwillumbah Learning Community High School, after trailing by two tries at halftime, they bounced back with a dominant performance in their second game against Banora High School. The boys should be commended for their sportsmanship and for representing their school with pride both on and off the field.

Mr Cunynghame

The Under 13s team had an impressive start, defeating Tweed River High School 12-8. In their second game, they secured a 16-16 draw against MSPC. Try scorers included Billy Stewart with 2 tries and Jai Penny with 3 tries.

Emily Keys 

Mr Pat Kennedy (Leader of Sport) and Ms Emily Keys (Sport Trainee)

Canteen News

Volunteering in the Canteen is a great opportunity to meet other parents and to be involved in your child/children's school life.

• Arrive at school by 8:45am and park on the street (or you will get locked in the bottom carpark!).
• Go to the Office to sign in and receive your Visitor Badge.
• Head to the Canteen where you can prepare for the day’s lunch orders.
• Volunteers receive lunch, and their children receive a $5 canteen voucher.
• Finish time is approximately 1:30-2:00pm, depending on how busy the day is.
• If you cannot make your rostered day, please email Denise at xcccanteen@lism.catholic.edu.au or phone the College beforehand on 6618 0180.
• Text message reminders are sent on Wednesdays the week before your rostered day.
• Reminder: All Canteen volunteers need a volunteer Working With Children Check before starting with us. This is free for volunteers, and you can apply via Service NSW. 

Our recess and lunch order cutoff time is 8:45am.

Please visit our website for the 2024 Canteen Roster.

Mrs Denise Barnard
Canteen Supervisor

Community News