Newsletter 7: Monday 5 August 2024

For the Calendar

Week 3, Term 3

• Monday 05/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations begin, Year 10 Retreat (MA, MC, CA) & Pastoral Day (IG, NA, FA), HSC Society & Culture PIPs due, Year 9 Visual Arts Incursion, Immersion Preparation Session (3:30pm - 5pm)
• Tuesday 06/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, Year 10 Retreat (MA, MC, CA), Year 10 Dance Assessment (IG, NA, FA) @ Holy Family, Festa Christi (Boys)
• Wednesday 07/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, Year 10 Retreat (all groups), Festa Christi (Boys), Year 7 Campion & McAuley Geography Excursion to Rocky Creek Dam
• Thursday 08/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, Year 10 Retreat (FA, NA, IG), Year 10 Dance Assessment (CA, MA, MC) @ Holy Family, Festa Christi (Girls), Year 7 Ignatius & MacKillop Geography Excursion to Rocky Creek Dam
• Friday 09/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, Year 10 Retreat (FA, NA, IG), Year 10 Pastoral Day (CA, MA, MC), Festa Christi (Girls), Year 7 Nagle & Faber Geography Excursion to Rocky Creek Dam

Week 4, Term 3

• Monday 12/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, 2024 NSW All Schools Touch Football 7/8 Boys State Final
• Tuesday 13/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, 2024 NSW All Schools Touch Football 7/8 Boys State Final, Edutech Conference, Year 10 Child Studies Excursion to St Annes, Year 7-9 Semester 1 Awards Ceremony, Year 9-10 Semester 1 Awards Ceremony, Immersion Preparation
• Wednesday 14/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, Year 9 Sustainability Student Conference (TBC) 
• Thursday 15/08/24: Feast of the Assumption Liturgy, Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, HSC Industrial Technology Major Projects due, Year 9 Sustainability Student Conference (TBC), NSW Cup Netball, Year 9.2 Visual Arts Claymaking Incursion
• Friday 16/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations continue, Year 11 PDHPE First Aid Course
• Saturday 17/08/24: HSC French Continuers Oral Examination
  

Week 5, Term 3

• Monday 19/08/24: Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations final day, HSC Textiles & Design Major Projects due, Senior Visual Arts Incursion, Year 9 Child Studies Excursion, Immersion Preparation
• Tuesday 20/08/24: Catch-Up Vaccinations, Year 10-12 Police Liaison Presentations, Year 12 English Extension 2 Major Project Day, Year 12 Performance Night (6pm)
• Wednesday 21/08/24: Whole School Athletics Carnival
• Thursday 22/08/24: HSC Dance Examination, Year 11 Earth & Environmental Science Excursion (TBC), Year 11 Entertainment Excursion, SHINE, Life Skills Food Technology Excursion, Parent Group Meeting (6pm)
• Friday 23/08/24: HSC English Extension 2 Major Projects due, SHINE
  

Week 6, Term 3

• Monday 26/08/24: HSC Drama Projects due, NRCC Volleyball, Year 11 Examination Briefing
• Tuesday 27/08/24: Year 10 Child Studies Excursion to St Anne's, Year 12 Business Studies Incursion/Excursion, Immersion Preparation, Immersion Parent Meeting (6pm)
• Wednesday 28/08/24: Year 9A and 9B Geography Field Studies Excursions to Byron Bay, Year 12 Ancient History Incursion 
• Thursday 29/08/24: HSC Design & Technology Projects due, Year 9C and 9D Geography Studies Field Excursions to Byron Bay, RSA Training (3:15 - 6:30pm)
• Friday 30/08/24: Year 10 Your Choicez (TBC), Year 9E and 9F Geography Field Studies Excursions to Byron Bay, RSA Training (3:15 - 6:30pm)
  

To see our full Term Planner, click here.

Principal's Message

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

Welcome to a new school term. We are now past the halfway mark of the academic year and our Year 12 students are in the process of sitting their Trial Higher School Certificate exams, completing their major projects, performances and practical assessments, and finalising their content in their courses. How quickly the year passes!

High Expectations

As we embark on this exciting second semester of 2024 together, I want to take a moment to discuss a cornerstone of our educational philosophy here at Xavier Catholic College Ballina: the importance of high expectations.

At Xavier, we believe that every student has the potential to achieve success. Setting high expectations is not just about aiming for better exam results or higher grades; it is about fostering an environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential, develop essential life skills, and prepare for future success.

Why do high expectations matter at Xavier?

1. Boosting Academic Achievement: Research shows that students perform better when they are challenged with rigorous academic standards. By setting high expectations, we provide students with the motivation and support they need to excel academically.
2. Promoting Equity: High expectations are crucial for ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have access to the same opportunities for success. We are committed to closing achievement gaps and supporting every student in their academic journey.
3. Encouraging Growth Mindsets: When students are encouraged to meet high standards, they develop a growth mindset. They learn to embrace challenges, persist through difficulties, and view effort as a path to mastery.
4. Preparing for the Future: High expectations equip students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and resilience skills. These skills are essential for success in higher education and the workforce, preparing our students for the challenges they will face in their future careers.

How do we foster high expectations at Xavier?

1. Quality Teaching and Learning: Our dedicated teachers are committed to providing high-quality instruction and personalised support to help each student meet our high standards. High-quality staff professional learning and active collaboration ensure that our teaching practices are effective and innovative.
2. Supportive Learning Environment: We create a nurturing and inclusive environment where students feel safe, respected, and valued. This positive College culture is fundamental to encouraging students to strive for excellence.
3. Parent and Community Involvement: We believe that education is a partnership between the College, parents, and the community. By working together, we can create a supportive network that reinforces high expectations and celebrates student achievements.
4. Continuous Improvement: We are committed to continuous improvement in all aspects of our College. Regular assessments, feedback, and data-driven decision-making help us identify areas for growth and ensure that we are meeting the needs of our students.

As we move forward, I encourage you to join us in promoting high expectations for all students. Your support, encouragement, and involvement are vital to our shared success. Together, we can inspire our students to reach new heights and achieve their dreams.

Strong Start

As we settle into the new term, I am filled with excitement by the strong start we've had. Our students have shown enthusiasm, dedication, and resilience, and I want to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone on a fantastic beginning to the school term.

Academic Excellence

Since the start of term, our classrooms have been buzzing with energy and a commitment to learning. Most students have embraced their courses with curiosity and determination, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a passion for knowledge. Teachers have reported high levels of engagement and participation, and it is clear that our students are already making significant academic strides.

Extracurricular Achievements

In addition to their academic efforts, our students have excelled in a variety of extracurricular activities. Whether it’s on the sports field, in the arts, or through various clubs, our students are showcasing their talents and teamwork. These activities not only enrich their school experience but also help them develop essential life skills.

Positive College Culture

I am also thrilled to see the positive College culture that is thriving. Most of our students are showing kindness, respect, and a willingness to support one another, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. This sense of community is a testament to the strong values we uphold and the supportive nature of our staff and families.

Parent and Community Involvement

Our success would not be possible without the strong support of our parents and community members. Your encouragement at home and collaboration with our staff are crucial components of our students’ achievements. Thank you for being active participants in your children’s education and for helping us to make Xavier a great place to learn and grow.

As we continue through the term, I am confident that we will build on this strong start and achieve even greater things. There will be challenges along the way, but I am certain that, together, we can overcome them and continue to thrive. Our goal remains to provide a high-quality education that prepares our students for a bright future, and with the dedication and effort I’ve seen so far, I know we are well on our way to achieving that.

Let’s keep up the momentum by staying strong and focused.

Student Goal Setting

At the mid-point of the year, some students start to lose energy and some of their motivation. Homework can become a chore, assignments are submitted late or poorly done, and for a number of our students, laziness and lack of application will prevent them from getting any ‘real’ work done at all. For these students, procrastination (“putting off doing things”) becomes a real issue. This becomes a hurdle that is hard to get over as the year rolls on – bad habits tend to breed further bad habits.

Both teachers and parents need to continually focus their attention on overcoming procrastination. Procrastination is a habit, not a fatal flaw. It takes persistence to change, but the students can overcome it with some goal setting, time management, changes in attitude and behaviour, good modelling and some ‘good old-fashioned’ hard work. Here’s how students can make changes now that will make a big difference in the long run. Parents – you have a vital role in helping your children in the following:

Clarify their personal goals 

• Articulate and write down their personal goals. Post them on their door, mirror, and notebook -- so they can see them frequently. 
• Be sure the task they think they "should" do is one that is really important to them and that leads to their goal. If their actions aren't in line with their intentions, perhaps they should change their intentions: "I said I'd study for Maths now, but it's more important to rest. I'll do it tomorrow morning." 

Manage their time effectively 

• Break their goals up into little parts. Write out and list the steps they must take to accomplish their goals. 
• Write out a plan for themselves. Make a schedule. 
• Establish a regular time each day to work toward their goals. They need to get out of a disorganised lifestyle and make working toward their goal part of their routine. 
• Organise their study environment, complete with the equipment they will need, so it's conducive to working. Or...move themselves to an environment (create an environment) which is conducive to working. 
• If students aren't sure how to reach their goal, they need to learn. For example, if they aren't clear about an assignment, they need to talk to their teacher. 
• Start early. Build a small amount of procrastination time into their schedule. Call it "downtime." 
• Start small and easily. Build gradually. 

As parents and teachers, we need to be role models for the students. Take time out regularly to talk to your son/daughter about their goals, their directions and their motivation. Your help is critical to their success. This is a critical time to make a positive start!

Student Attendance

Regular school attendance is essential for academic success, skill development, and overall student well-being. The College is striving for an attendance rate of 95% or higher to ensure students receive the full benefits of their education and are well-prepared for future challenges.

Regular attendance ensures continuity in learning. Students who attend school consistently are less likely to fall behind and more likely to keep up with the curriculum.

Every school day counts. The more days a student attends school, the more instructional time they receive, which enhances their understanding and mastery of the subject matter. High attendance rates also help students build a habit of responsibility and reliability, which are important traits for future success in both academic and professional settings. High attendance rates significantly contribute to a positive College culture where learning is valued, and students feel a sense of belonging and commitment to their education.

Please support your child in attending the College every day!

Xavier Parent Group Meeting - Term 3 

The next meeting of the Xavier Parent Group will take place on Thursday 22 August 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 and discuss College matters and initiatives. We need to listen to your voice! 

Drinks and nibbles to kick off the meeting from 5.45pm. You are very welcome to attend and participate!  

Term 3 Dates

Please note that Term 3 is a 10-week term. Term 3 concludes for all students on Thursday 26 September. Friday 27 September is a Student-Free Day and a Professional Learning Day for staff. 

Term 4 commences for students in Year 7-11 on Tuesday 15 October.

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 would love to hear from you if you would like to meet with me at any time to discuss your child’s education and/or provide any constructive feedback.

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

Welcome to Semester 2

I would like to extend a warm welcome to all students and parents as we begin Term 3. It is a busy and exciting time, with a lot of hard work ahead, but also many opportunities for growth, fun and community celebrations. For our Year 12 students, and their parents, it is a particularly exciting period as secondary education draws towards a conclusion. I hope every student engages in their learning and feels a sense of belonging in the Xavier community, knowing they are valued, respected and supported.

Year 7-10 Reports: Assessment-Capable Learners

Research provides educators with extensive evidence of the importance of shaping assessment-capable learners. In summary, this body of research provides evidence that motivation, goal setting, self-regulation and feedback all play a vital role in learning outcomes. Students and parents have received important feedback via the Semester 1 Reports for Years 7, 8, 9 and 10, which were made available via Compass last Friday. We encourage parents and students to read the report together and to reflect on the commendations and recommendations provided by each teacher. Celebrate your child’s successes and discuss individual learning goals for Semester 2. This reflection and goal-setting process is highly valuable to support students’ learning and wellbeing.

Year 7-10 Parent/Teacher Conferences

The vital role of parents as the first educators of their children is central to our values at the College. Research shows that the more a parent is actively involved in school life, the greater the chance of success for their children; we thank our wonderful parent community for their participation in many elements of College life.  

Parent/Teacher Conferences for Years 7 to 10 were held on Thursday 1 August. We thank parents for working in partnership with the teaching staff to support and nurture our students’ learning and wellbeing. If you require any further information on your child’s academic progress, please contact the classroom teacher via email, or make contact with the relevant Leader of Learning.

Year 7-10 Award Ceremonies

It is a tradition with the College to host Award Ceremonies each semester. These ceremonies are a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate both the academic achievements and consistent effort and application of our students.  This year, we have opened these celebrations to our parent community, and we warmly invite parents of students in Years 7 to 10 to attend the ceremonies, which will be held on Tuesday 13 August.  Look out for more information via Compass soon.

Subject Selection

Year 10 and Year 8 students submitted subject selections in Week 10, Term 2.  We are now in the process of constructing the 2025 timetable, working through processes that ensure suitable staffing and rooming arrangements are in place. This is a complex process, and we thank students and parents for their patience as we work behind the scenes to create the new timetable with its many interrelated parts. Students will be notified of their pattern of study in the coming weeks, and support processes will be provided for further consultation as required.

Year 12: Trial HSC Examinations

Year 12 students will complete their final internal assessment tasks during the Trial HSC Examination period. Examinations commence on Monday 8 August, and conclude on Monday 19 August. All Year 12 students are encouraged to consolidate all course material and to focus on a program of study in order to be well prepared for the upcoming examination block.

Students are reminded to check the Trial HSC Examination timetable very carefully and ensure they attend all examinations at the scheduled time. Students are only required to be on-site when they have a scheduled examination and are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the commencement of an examination. If a student has two examinations scheduled on the same day, they must remain at school during the lunch break and may not leave the College between examinations. If they do not have an examination scheduled on a particular day within the examination timetable, students may study at home or access the College library. Any student who wishes to access the library to study is required to sign in at the front office and attend in uniform. All students are required to be attired in full school uniform for all scheduled examinations.

Please be mindful that some afternoon examinations will not conclude until late in the afternoon. On these occasions, alternative transport may need to be arranged.

If a student is unable to attend a Trial HSC examination due to illness or misadventure, please call the College office on the morning of the examination. Medical certificates and additional paperwork will be required and must be submitted with an Absence from Assessment form available on the College website/Learning tab/Assessment Information/Year 12/HSC Absence form Assessment/Request for Special Consideration.

A sense of balance is particularly important at this time, and students are reminded of the need to take time for relaxation and to nurture their wellbeing in the lead-up to and during the Trial HSC Examinations.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Year 12 students well as they complete their examinations and submit their major projects in a variety of faculties; the prayers of the College community will be with them during this time. Please do not hesitate to contact either Ms Wade (Leader of Curriculum) or myself if you have any questions or concerns.

Ms Carmel Zuino

Assistant Principal: Mission

Welcome Back

Welcome to Term 3 at Xavier Catholic College! We hope you had a wonderful holiday break with your children. As we embark on a new term, we encourage you to support your child's growth and achievements in the coming months.

This term offers significant opportunities for students at all year levels:

Year 7: Our newest members have settled in well. We encourage them to embrace their educational journey with enthusiasm, following Nelson Mandela's words, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Let's support them in becoming role models for the incoming Year 7s in 2025.

Year 8: With their subject selections complete, students are beginning to shape their academic paths. We encourage them to dream big and work hard, echoing Eleanor Roosevelt's sentiment: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."

Year 9: This year is pivotal for developing strong study habits. As Steve Jobs once said, "The only way to do great work is to love what you do." Let's encourage our Year 9s to find passion in their studies and relationships within the community.

Year 10: With the Year 10 Retreat approaching, students have a valuable opportunity to reflect and grow. The Bible reminds us, "When I became a man or woman, I set aside childish ways." We urge them to step up as role models and prepare for the senior years ahead.

Year 11: As they approach their HSC journey, students are stepping into leadership roles. John Quincy Adams' words inspire us: "If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader." Let's support them in leading with integrity and kindness.

Year 12: With just 8 weeks of formal classes remaining, our senior students are on the cusp of a new chapter. We encourage them to stay focused and seize every opportunity. Let's cheer them on as they reach the finish line.

As a community, let's make respect and kindness our guiding principles this term. The Dalai Lama reminds us, "Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." Let's support our children in embodying this spirit every day.

We look forward to a successful Term 3 and appreciate your continued support.

Leadership Lessons from Saint Ignatius of Loyola

On 31 July, we honoured the Feast Day of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (The Jesuits). Born in 1491 in Azpeitia, Spain, Ignatius was a soldier who experienced a profound spiritual conversion after being wounded in battle. He later dedicated his life to God and established the Jesuits, an order known for its commitment to education, intellectual rigour, and missionary work. Ignatius's emphasis on discernment, humility, and the importance of relationships has left a lasting legacy, which continues to guide the Society's members, including Pope Francis, one of its most prominent figures today. Xavier Catholic College, named after Saint Francis Xavier, Ignatius's close companion, proudly upholds these Jesuit traditions.

This week, our Year 11 cohort was introduced to the school leadership election process, offering them a chance to give back to our community and develop their leadership skills. In light of Ignatius's teachings, we encourage students to focus on leading themselves with integrity, making thoughtful decisions, nurturing important relationships, and seeking joy in their responsibilities. These qualities are essential not only for their roles within the College but also for their future endeavours. As we prepare to welcome the leaders of the 2025 College year, we look forward to seeing our students embody these timeless principles and contribute positively to our community.

Mr Peter Fear

Pastoral Care

Welcome back to Semester 2! It is always a great joy to see our students walk into the College after a holiday break. This term was no different, and it was doubly pleasing to see the effort that students and families had put into showing up well-presented for the first week of school. Your positive start has set a great tone for the term, and we look forward to maintaining this momentum.

As previously communicated, we have formally commenced the Consistent Classroom Climate initiative within the College this term. One key element of this is having pride and respect in yourself so that you can pass that on to those around you. Certainly, our students have shown this far that they have a deep love, respect and admiration for each other, the staff and our College facilities with the way they have started this term. Our task now is to maintain these high standards throughout the term!

NAIDOC Week Celebrations

2024 has seen an incredibly passionate and diverse celebration of the annual NAIDOC Week. This year’s theme, Keep the Fire Burning: Blak, Loud and Proud; has been a significant call to unity for our national community to uphold and honour the rights, traditions and culture of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. 

The work of Ms Tamera Bolt, Mrs Deb Hildrew, Ms Donna Albany, Ms Jenny Coleman and countless others, alongside the passionate and dedicated work of our First Nations Students, led to two incredibly moving events on either side of the Holidays.

In Week 10 of Term 2, we hosted part of the celebration (with the remainder postponed due to inclement weather). Our Indigenous students participated in numerous workshops, including Language, Weaving, Fire and Art. For our NAIDOC assembly, we were joined by the dance troupe from Ballina Coast High School who entertained and educated our community using dance as their medium of expression. We had contributions made by our students and staff, before being moved out of the hall to enjoy the amazing food prepared by our MacKillop House Leaders who raised significant funds for St. Francis Xavier School in the Daly River. A massive thank you for Mrs Kennedy and MacKillop House for their efforts.

On Wednesday 24 July, we had a NAIDOC Liturgy at the end of our College Assembly. Within this very special ceremony, Siara Lynch (Year 12, Nagle House) shared a poem she had written whilst in Year 8 about her experience of life as a First Nations Australian. It was the perfect prelude to our NAIDOC activities at lunchtime that consisted of painting, face painting, weaving, hair braiding, NAIDOC tattoos and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands Jenga! To finish the afternoon, we watched our students battle it out in the second iteration of the Bourinjoin Cup Marngrook Competition. Congratulations to Mrs Kilby and Campion House for claiming the title this year!

I wish to offer on behalf of the College community my gratitude to Ms Bolt, Mrs Hildrew and our Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Students for their contributions to our celebrations of NAIDOC Week this year.

Year 9 & Year 11 Pastoral Days

On Wednesday and Thursday of Week 2, our Years 9 & 11 students were joined by Chris Doyle to engage in their annual Pastoral Days. It was the first time that Xavier Catholic College had welcomed Chris for a senior program in quite some years, but those in attendance were certainly glad we did.

It was a fantastic time for these students and the staff who attended to gain some insights into themselves, each other and the world around us, whilst celebrating our faith and the beauty of humanity and creation.

Rumour has it that even Mr Fear was unable to deny Chris’ insistence that he get up and perform a song with him with Year 11. All in all, the two days were an amazing celebration of our students and their great contributions to the lives of those around them and our College!

Attendance

It is very important that students attend school each and every day from 8:50am until 3:15pm. Regular attendance at school is one of the key indicators for students reaching their full potential as a learner and experiencing the fullness of life that can be attained through engaging in the relational, learning and co-curricular aspects of College life. 

It is expected that students' attendance at school remains above 95% for the year. This roughly translates to having less than 10 days off in the entire year. We are bound to engage with families of students whose attendance is ‘of concern’. In the coming weeks, we will be sending written communication to families regarding their son/daughter’s attendance as required. Please note that these letters are an invitation to partnership in order that all of our students are given the best chance of fulfilling their potential. If you receive this letter and would like to discuss any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s Head of House or me directly (nick.jones@lism.catholic.edu.au).

Detention Procedures

It has been deemed necessary to change the procedures around our Detentions within the College. The change is related to permitting students to miss detentions twice without question or penalty. The new procedure will not allow for students to miss a detention when they are in attendance at the College. Students who are absent or involved in College events will have their detention moved to the following day as has previously been the process.

Students who have missed a detention while they are in attendance at school will have their detention escalated to the next step in the process, i.e., Lunch Detention to Wednesday Afternoon Detention.

This change is being implemented to minimise the number of students in detention on any given day and ensure that consequences for actions are completed in a timely manner. We hope that this change will help students address mistakes that don’t align with our expectations and will help staff deal with issues of concern in a more timely manner. If you have any queries about this, please don’t hesitate to contact me (nick.jones@lism.catholic.edu.au).

Consistent Classroom Climate

As mentioned above, the CCC has been implemented this term. Whilst it is a new initiative at Xavier, our staff and students have taken to it very well.

Over the coming weeks, I will be asking staff to nominate students/classes who are working particularly well in this space to be highlighted for commendation. Already, it has been fantastic to see the many positive moments that our staff and students share celebrated around the College. I am looking forward to seeing our positive interactions continue and for our students to grow in confidence within our culture of high standards and expectations.

As always, if there is any way that our Pastoral Care Team can support you or your families, please don’t hesitate to contact me (nick.jones@lism.catholic.edu.au).

Mr Nick Jones
Leader of Pastoral Care

Catechesis & Evangelisation

Feast of St Ignatius

St Ignatius of Loyola is one of the patron saints of our College and it is his feast day on 31 July. Members of the College Leadership Team joined with Ignatius House to celebrate a beautiful liturgy, led by Mrs Wallace (Head of Ignatius) and a group of students.

Ignatius founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) after a conversion experience following being shot in the leg by a cannonball at the Battle of Pamplona. At one stage it was said that the Jesuits educated 20% of people in Europe!

These days, more than 2 million students worldwide are educated in Jesuit schools. Australian Jesuit and Ignatian ministries include Jesuit Refugee Services, Jesuit Mission, the Cardoner Project, Sevenhill Winery and Retreat Centre, and Jesuit and Ignatian Spirituality Australia (JISA), who we often work with to facilitate staff formation and retreats. 

Term 3 Assessment Tasks

Students will have received their assessment notifications for many of their tasks already for Term 3. Below is a list of tasks that students are working on this term:

• Year 7 are developing a sustainability proposal to act as Stewards of Creation and are studying Laudato Si and Laudate Deum (due Week 9)
• Year 8 are developing proposals to rename a part of the school after a saint who inspires them to act as a witness to Christ (due Week 9) 
• Year 9 are studying biblical writing and are developing magazine articles on topics of their choosing such as outcasts of the Bible, great adventures of the Bible, heroic women in Scripture, and family drama in the Bible (due Week 8)
• Year 10 are learning about the world's major religious traditions, focusing on the Abrahamic Faiths (Christianity, Islam, and Judaism). They will complete an in-class writing task in Week 6
• Year 11 and Year 12 will have examinations this term for both Studies of Religion and Catholic Faith in Action as the final milestone of their courses.

Mr David Eyles & Dr Madeline Beveridge

Wellbeing News

MacKillop House Fundraiser

A heartfelt THANK YOU to our amazing Xavier community!

During NAIDOC Week last term, our Xavier community came together to support the MacKillop fundraiser, raising an incredible $1150.06! This generous contribution will be sent to St Francis Xavier School in Daly River, Northern Territory, where it will make a significant positive impact.

At recess, the Year 10 MacKillop students worked together to prepare and serve cupcakes and damper scones with Kakadu plum jam and Davidson plum and wattleseed ice cream. At lunchtime, the community got to taste Kangaroo burgers and sausage sandwiches.

The support and generosity of Xavier staff and students truly embody the spirit of our community. We extend our sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone who contributed, especially the MacKillop staff and students who helped on the day. In particular, we would like to thank Shar Mitchell, Fiona Spinks, Katrina McQuaker, and Katie Elliott for their efforts in food preparation and ordering.

We had a lovely conversation with Mr Peter Baldry, the new Principal of St Francis Xavier, Daly River. He was thrilled and very grateful for our donation. The funds will support a positive incentive program, encouraging and motivating student attendance by allowing them to buy from the school shop at the end of the week. Mr Baldry will be sending a student letter of thanks and some pictures soon. 

Thank you again for your wonderful support of the MacKillop fundraising event. 

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 11

Next

MacKillop House Liturgy

MacKillop House would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in our annual MacKillop House Liturgy. The event was a beautiful testament to our community's faith, unity, and dedication to the values embodied by Saint Mary of the Cross. It was wonderfully led by the MacKillop Captains - Jack Moyle, Liam Meany, Millie Jessup, Rhiannon Burt and Jack Evers. 

We began by acknowledging the Bundjalung people, the traditional custodians of the land. We honoured their enduring connection to the land and their wisdom, which continues to inspire us. This moment reminded us of the importance of respect and reconciliation with all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Our House Captain, Jack Moyle, welcomed us, reflecting on Mary MacKillop's legacy as Australia’s first Saint and her advocacy for those on the fringes of society. The theme of Stand by Me resonated deeply, reminding us of Mary MacKillop's vision of being "Fierce for Fair".

Liam read from Matthew 25:35-40, emphasising the importance of compassionate action. Rhiannon provided insights on how this passage calls us to stand by others, embodying Jesus' love and mercy.

Jack Evers and Jack Moyle shared how Saint Mary MacKillop lived out the 2024 College theme Stand by Me through her dedication to education, care, and love for the marginalised. Their reflections highlighted Mary’s enduring commitment to justice and equality.

Our MacKillop House Leaders shared personal experiences of witnessing the theme Stand by Me in action. Their stories illustrated the spirit of solidarity and support within our community.

"I have seen this year's theme of Stand by Me being implemented during the 2022 floods, where Xavier was being used as a temporary hospital, and our college and wider community shared resources and stepped up for one another. Help during stressful and tough times really enacts our 2024 theme of Stand by Me." — Jack Moyle, MacKillop House Captain

"A moment where I saw people acting out and Standing by Me was with the Battle of the Bands at the end of last year. Watching the MacKillop band and seeing all the cheering in the crowd showed me how strong our MacKillop pride is." — Liam Meany, MacKillop Academic Captain

"I encountered Stand by Me at the 2023 Year 7 Orientation Day, when all Year 12s were welcoming and kind to the new Year 7s. They made them feel included and welcome into the school, we played games and got to know the Year 7s of 2024, now they are included into the school." — Mille Jessup, MacKillop Mission Captain

"I have observed the principle of Stand by Me in action quite recently, within our Year 12 cohort. Since Trials are less than a week away, and graduation and HSC are just around the corner, you can imagine how stressed everyone is. The College theme of Stand by Me is represented within Year 12 as we are all supporting each other throughout this stressful time, as well as pushing each other to strive to be our best selves." — Rhiannon Burt, MacKillop Culture Captain

"I personally have noticed our school's theme Stand by Me multiple times throughout the year, particularly when earlier last term I was put into a sling for my arm and I was surrounded by friends looking to help with my bags and binders around school, trying to make my life easier. I found this to be a great example of school members standing by each other." — Jack Evers, MacKillop Sport Captain

Millie encouraged us to think about how we could help others, drawing inspiration from a story about Mary MacKillop’s life. Rhiannon reminded us of Mary’s belief in the power of education and her unwavering support for those in need. Liam called us to embrace Stand by Me in our daily lives, reflecting on the qualities of resilience and strength.

Students from Years 7-12 offered prayers for various needs, invoking Mary MacKillop's example to guide us in showing courage, love, and respect for others. Thank you to Flynn Kilby, Lillian Bruncke, Owen Kilby, Dom Smith, Charlotte Fox and Lillyana Monk who contributed to the prayers of the faithful. 

Jack Moyle thanked everyone for their contributions to the MacKillop Fundraiser during NAIDOC week, which raised $1150.06 for St Francis Xavier Catholic School in Daly River, NT. Special thanks were given to the Year 10 students and MacKillop Year 12s and staff who helped with the event.

We concluded with a beautiful rendition of Stand by Me performed by Abbey Horvath, Tilly Cubis, Isabella Clarson and Charlie Boyle, accompanied by reflective images of our house. The House Captains then guided us through the Daily Examen, a time of personal reflection and prayer.

We closed with a prayer of gratitude, asking for God's guidance to stand by others with compassion and care, following the example of Saint Mary MacKillop.

Thank you once again to the MacKillop staff and students for their participation, support, reverence and respect during our liturgy. May we continue to live out the values of Mary MacKillop, standing by each other with courage and love.

Mrs Rebecca Kennedy
Head of MacKillop House

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 9

Next

Sport News

NSW All Schools Cross Country

Congratulations to the following students who represented NSWCCC at the NSW All Schools Cross Country Championships and achieved the amazing results below.

• Isla Cleary:  9th in NSW U12 Girls 
• Alexandra Dogan:  4th in NSW U13 Girls
• Tommy Behan: 10th in NSW U13 Boys 
• Abigail Matthews: 8th in NSW U14 Girls 
• William Schmid: 4th in NSW U14 Boys 
• Skye Dogan: 5th in NSW U15 Girls
• Matilda Rossmanith-Jones: 14th in NSW U16 Girls
• Tyler Dogan: 4th in NSW U17 Boys 
• Sunny Seberry: 26th in NSW U18 Boys

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 9

Next

Open Boys Country Cup Rugby League

The Opens Rugby League team demonstrated remarkable skill and determination at the Country Cup Northern Finals. The team showcased exceptional teamwork, delivering a dominant performance in their first game against St Joseph’s Catholic College, Aberdeen, winning 16 - 0. The second game against St Francis Xavier College, Hamilton, was a tougher match, but the boys' defence was outstanding, and they won 14 - 0. 

The final game of the day was against the unbeaten Newman Technical College, Port Macquarie. We started the game without Oscar Godwin and Jonah Verus, who were injured in the previous game, but the team rallied together and put in their best performance of the day to win 32 - 12 and be crowned the Northern Country Cup champions. 

Congratulations to the Opens team on their commitment to sportsmanship and representing their school with pride.

Coach: Mr Anthony Colman

Individual Achievements

We are thrilled to share the exciting news of Layla Keough, Eva Woodburn and Zali Raudonikis’ outstanding achievements at the NSW Junior Netball State Titles held in Sydney. Layla and her team played exceptionally well, securing the runners-up position in the U14s division. They showcased remarkable skill and determination, losing only one game throughout the entire tournament. Congratulations to Layla, Eva, Zali and their team on this fantastic accomplishment!

Whole School Athletics Carnival

The Whole School Participation Athletics Carnival will be held on the College Oval on Wednesday 21 August. Students are encouraged to dress in appropriate House colours, fancy dress and costumes and enjoy a fun College community day. Events will include:

• Year Group 4 x 100 metres Relays
• House All-Star 12 x 100-metre Relays
• 100-metre Sprints
• 200-metre Sprints
• Long Jump
• Safety Shot Put
• Safety Throw
• Tug of War
• Staff versus Yr12 Events

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.
• 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 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.