Newsletter 1: Monday 17 February 2025

For the Calendar

Week 3, Term 1 2025

• Monday 17/2/25: Year 11 Assessment Information (P6 for students, 6pm for parents and families)
• Tuesday 18/2/25: Year 7 Vaccinations, HSC Artmaking Afternoon (3:30pm-5pm)
  
• Thursday 20/2/25: Year 7 Belonging Day, Year 12 RSA Training (selected students - 3:30pm-6:30pm)

Week 4, Term 1 2025

• Monday 24/2/25: Year 10 Assessment Information (P6 for students, 6pm for parents and families)
• Tuesday 25/2/25: Diocesan Rugby League Trials (TBC), Diocesan Soccer Trials (TBC)
• Wednesday 26/2/25: Year 12 Assessment Block Briefing (during Community Time)
• Friday 28/2/25: Lunch on the Lawn (12:55pm)
  

Week 5, Term 1 2025

• Monday 3/3/25: NSWCCC Golf Selections (TBC)
• Tuesday 4/3/25: Diocesan Touch Trials U15s & Opens (TBC), HSC Artmaking Afternoon (3:30pm-5pm), Year 7 & Parents Belonging Day Picnic (5-7pm)
• Wednesday 5/3/25: Ash Wednesday Liturgy
• Thursday 6/3/25: Diocesan Swimming Championships (TBC), Year 7 2026 Principal's Tours (9:30am & 4:30pm), XCC Parent Group Meeting (5:45pm)
  
• Friday 7/3/25: NSWCCC U15 Volleyball (TBC)

Week 6, Term 1 2025

• Monday 10/3/25: Year 9 Child Studies Excursion to St Anne's Day Care
• Wednesday 12/3/25: NAPLAN, Diocesan Open Basketball Boys/Girls (TBC)
• Wednesday 13/3/25: NAPLAN, Diocesan Open Basketball Boys/Girls (TBC)
• Wednesday 14/3/25: NAPLAN
  

Principal's Message

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

It is with great joy that I welcome all families — new and continuing — to the 2025 school year at Xavier Catholic College. We are excited to embark on another year of learning, growth, and community spirit. The energy around the College has been inspiring, and it is wonderful to see students and staff settling in so well.

This year is particularly special as we celebrate 25 years of Xavier Catholic College. Reaching this milestone gives us a chance to reflect on our journey, honour those who have shaped our community, and look ahead to a future filled with promise. It is a time to celebrate our shared achievements and renew our commitment to the values that define us.

Our theme for this Jubilee Year of the Church, Pilgrims of Hope, calls us to walk forward with faith, courage, and optimism. As we navigate the year ahead, let us embrace this theme by supporting one another, fostering hope in our daily lives, and continuing to build a school community that thrives on faith, excellence, and service.

A strong partnership between home and school is vital to the success of our students, and we deeply appreciate the involvement and support of our parents and carers. Your engagement in school life—whether through volunteering, attending events, or encouraging your children in their studies—makes an invaluable difference.

I look forward to the many opportunities we will have to gather as a community, celebrate our faith, and work together to make 2025 a remarkable year for Xavier Catholic College.

New Staff – 2025

This year we welcome the following new / returning members of staff to the College. It certainly is an exciting time for these new staff as they begin their journey in the Xavier community. To our returning staff, we warmly welcome them back to Xavier. We also keep in our prayers our staff who are unwell and our ex-staff members commencing new roles beyond Xavier.  

New Staff:

• Brendan Fox – Leader of Learning - Mathematics
• Timothy Hepburn – Leader of Learning - HSIE
• Connor Blair – Religious Education Teacher (Replacement for Mary Howard – 2025)
• Ambrose Nicholls-Skene – Creative Arts (Music) Teacher
• Daniel Naughton – Technologies Teacher (Replacement for Sam Kennedy – 2025)
• Chloe Sirach – HSIE Teacher (Replacement for Karen Brown – S1 – 2025)
• Simone Montie – PDHPE Teacher – (Job Share with Tegan Paton-Kelly)
• Sue MacMaster – Technologies Teacher – (Job Share with Karina Lampe)
• Moira Waterfall – Inclusion & Diversity Teacher
• Matisse Anderson – Sports Trainee
• Melissa Dorey – Inclusion & Diversity Teacher Aide
• Jillian Watt – Inclusion & Diversity Teacher Aide
• Kristen Coleman – Visual Arts Assistant – (Job Share with Jenny Coleman)

Returning Staff:

• Sue Ryan – Science Teacher
• Graham Black – Mathematics Teacher & Timetabling Coordinator

Recognition for our College

On Australia Day this year, our Year 11 Timor Leste Immersion students and students were nominated for the Young Citizens of the Year at the annual Ballina Shire 2025 Australia Day Awards. While not the winners in this category, it was great to witness our College being recognised for this outstanding experience. Congratulations to students and staff involved in this amazing experience and partnership! 

Congratulations

I offer my congratulations and thanks to:

• The great majority of our students who are wearing their uniform with pride and following College regulations.
• Our new Year 7 students who have stepped up superbly and shown they are loving being secondary school students.
• Our new students to the College in Years 8 – 11 who have joined our community and are now value-adding to it through their respect, commitment and participation.
• Our students for the respect and reverence they have shown at our Opening College Liturgy & Opening College Mass; at our Year 12 (2024) Laureate Assembly; and at our recent Whole College Assembly. Student behaviour at these events has been exemplary.
• The great majority of our students for their displays of kindness, respect and gratitude. Saying hello, smiling, saying please and thank you makes such a difference in our community.
• The great majority of our students who have settled into their lessons and who are displaying commitment to their learning and the tasks set.

All of the above, points the College in a very positive direction. As I said to the students at the recent Whole College Assembly, “Each of you has something unique to contribute, and the effort you put in will shape your own success. The right attitude will allow you to embrace challenges with confidence. Your commitment will strengthen your skills and knowledge, preparing you for the future. And resilience will ensure that no setback defines you. By living out these qualities, you will not only succeed academically but also develop into compassionate, courageous individuals ready to make a difference in the world.

This year, make the choice to give your best—not because you have to, but because you owe it to yourself. Embrace effort, cultivate a positive attitude, stay committed, and above all, lead with heart. If we do this together, this year will be one of growth, achievement, and community.”

2025 College Calendar

Hopefully your 2025 Xavier Catholic College Calendar has arrived home by now via your eldest child. We are celebrating 25 Years of Xavier and this glossy flip calendar gives you ready access to what is coming up across the year.

Xavier Parent Group Meeting – Term 1

The next meeting of the Xavier Parent Group will take place on Thursday 6 March 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! 

At our first meeting this year we will be looking at our College improvement goals for 2025. We look forward to any input you have to offer us.

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

Term & Holiday Dates 2025

Term 1 – 2025 

• End of Term 1 for students: Friday 11 April (10-week term)
• School holidays - Monday 14 April - Friday 26 April
• 2025 Easter Break: Good Friday 18 April to Easter Monday 21 April

Term 2 – 2025 

• Commences for students: Tuesday 29 April (Student-Free Day on Monday 28 April)
• End of Term 2 for students: Friday 4 July (10-week term)
• School holidays - Monday 7 July - Friday 18 July

Term 3 – 2025 

• Commences for students: Tuesday 22 July (Student-Free Day on Monday 21 July) 
• End of Term 3 for students: Thursday 25 September (10-week term)
• School holidays - Monday 29 September - Friday 10 October

Term 4 – 2025 

• Commences for students: Tuesday 14 October (Student-Free Day on Monday 13 October)
• End of Term 4 for students: Wednesday 17 December (10-week term)
• School holidays – Thursday 18 December – Late January 2026 (Date to be announced by the DLCS)

We Have Space for Student Enrolments in 2025

The College is currently accepting additional enrolments for Years 7 to 12 for the 2025 academic year. We encourage parents and carers to share information about our College within the community to inspire additional enrolments. Interested families can contact our Enrolments Team for more details or to arrange a meeting with the Principal to discuss enrolling at Xavier this year. We look forward to welcoming new families to our Xavier community.

eBikes

We are currently experiencing a surge in e-bike issues. Last week, I wrote to all parents and carers seeking your support in relation to their sons / daughters riding their e-bikes, many at excessive speeds, without helmets, without regard for the road rules, in their College uniform, endangering the safety of the public, etc. Parents and carers, please, as the opportunities arise, discuss with your child and impress upon them the importance of riding safely, and not bringing down the great name of the College. -----------

As we look ahead to the year before us, let us all together do so with confidence and optimism. Let’s commit ourselves to making this year one of achievement, kindness, and faith. And, let us continue to build our Xavier Catholic College community with respect, excellence, and love at its foundation.

May this Jubilee Year inspire us all to be Pilgrims of Hope, walking together towards a future filled with promise.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if I can support you in any way.

Mr Lee MacMaster
College Principal

Assistant Principal: Learning & Teaching

Welcome to the 2025 academic year! I extend a particular welcome to all new students and families joining the Xavier community. We look forward to working in partnership with all families to support the students in our care.  Our dedicated staff are privileged to have the opportunity to accompany our students as we learn and grow together.  

Timetable

We are in the process of actioning subject change requests for students in Year 11 and Year 9.  We thank you for supporting your child to follow the prescribed process, including signing the form to provide your permission and for your patience as we work diligently to provide a suitable and engaging pattern of study for each student as they begin new elective subjects.

Laureate Assembly

Last week, we had the pleasure of celebrating the achievements of the HSC Class of 2024 at our annual Laureate Assembly. 

Students who achieved results in the highest band in a subject were acknowledged as Distinguished Achievers and presented with medallions to celebrate their outstanding results. We also acknowledged students on other HSC achievement lists, such as All Round Achievers, Top Achievers in Course, Showcase Selections, and College Dux.  We trust this assembly inspired the student body, as we continue to build a culture of learning that values effort and excellence.

In acknowledging these academic achievements, we were also given an opportunity to acknowledge our students for consistently aspiring to succeed in all areas of their lives. As our 2024 graduates take their next steps in life, we will continue to pray for them and wish them every success on their individual journey.

A full list of HSC achievements is available on our website.

Parent Evenings & Student Information Sessions

Parents are encouraged to attend our upcoming Assessment Information Evenings, where we will share important information about learning and assessment. It will be an opportunity to connect with other families and learn how to work in partnership with the school to support your child.  It would be wonderful to have all parents attend the following sessions:

• Year 11: Monday 17 February at 6pm in the Magis Centre
• Year 10: Monday 24 February at 6pm in the Magis Centre

Students will also attend information sessions during the school day to learn about NESA’s regulations for learning and assessment.  While it is preferable to attend the evening, for those parents unable to do so, the presentation from the evening will be made available on the College website.  Assessment Calendars and Assessment Policy Handbooks for all year levels are currently being updated and will be available in the near future on the College website.

Book Packs & Stationery Requirements

All stationery requirements, including book packs, are listed for each year level on the College website.

2025 Contacts

Our staff value working in partnership with parents and guardians. If you have any queries regarding study or subjects, please see the list below for relevant academic contacts. This list is also available on our website.

• Ms Carmel Zuino (Assistant Principal: Learning & Teaching): carmel.zuino@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mrs Emma Smith (Leader of Curriculum): emma.smith@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Ms Dana Barnsley (Leader of Pedagogy): dana.barnsley@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mrs Glenda Brown (Acting Leader of Catechesis): glenda.brown@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Ms Jennifer Leigh-Jones (Leader of English): jennifer.leighjones@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mr Brendan Fox (Leader of Mathematics): brendan.fox@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mr Timothy Hepburn (Leader of HSIE): timothy.hepburn@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mr Steve Edmonds (Leader of Science): steve.edmonds@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mr John Cunynghame (Leader of PDHPE): john.cunynghame@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Ms Fiona Spinks (Leader of Technologies): fiona.spinks@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mrs Karina Lampe (Leader of VET): karina.lampe@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mrs Allysha Hodges (Leader of Creative Arts): allysha.hodges@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mrs Maureen Campey (Leader of Languages): maureen.campey@lism.catholic.edu.au 
• Mr Trent Dooley (Leader of ICT): trent.dooley@lism.catholic.edu.au   

Base Classes

Students in Years 7-10 have received a new base class this year. Year 7 base classes are mixed-ability and allocated by House group; your child will travel to most classes with this group. In Years 8-10, base classes are mixed-ability and include students from all six Houses.  A great deal of time and effort went into creating class groups at the end of 2024, and we appreciate the support of all parents as we encourage students to take the time necessary to settle into these new learning environments.

PAT Testing and DIBELS Testing

Some students Year 7 students undertook Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) during Week 2, and DIBELS testing will begin for Year 7 and 8 students from next week.  These test assist staff to understand students and adjust their teaching practice to better meet the needs of individuals and class groups. Please find attached further information regarding DIBELS testing and data, and its role in supporting reading growth. 

Dibels Parent Guide Secondary

Supporting your child with assessment tasks

Developing good study habits at home and discussing upcoming assessment tasks with your child is an important step in supporting learning. Students receive task notifications at least two weeks prior to the due date of a task, which detail:

• The nature of the task
• The outcomes being assessed
• The weighting of the task
• The due date
• Task requirements, and 
• Marking schemes.

Assessment task notifications are placed on subject Google Classrooms and should be used to support discussions around upcoming task requirements.

It is important that students keep an eye on their assessment calendar to best manage their study. Please note that students may not study all of the subjects listed on the Calendar, particularly in regard to elective subjects. 

Study habits

Good study habits are not just for senior students. The foundation is laid in junior years and from the beginning of the year. If you or your child is unsure about how to approach study, please consider the following tips:

• Create a study environment that fosters productivity. A quiet, well-lit room with a desk and comfortable chair is best. Keep distractions at a minimum — silence any computer notifications, and keep your phone on silent and in another room.
• Be conscious of due dates and develop a weekly planner. Map out activities in advance, including set times for study and revision. Ensure a copy of the relevant assessment calendar is clearly visible.
• Set clear and achievable goals for each study session. Be well-prepared and do not leave tasks until the last minute. Consider breaking the material into smaller 'chunks' — daily summary notes, visual diagrams, dot-point summary notes, mind maps, and subject-specific flashcards are some useful tools students may wish to use.
• Test your understanding. Senior students may wish to access past HSC papers to consolidate their understanding. Students may also use draft questions from textbooks, Atomi, chapter summary quizzes, Kahoots, or other digital resources.
• Look after yourself. Make sure you keep a balance between life and study. Healthy habits are important. Ensure you get plenty of sleep each night, drink water, and eat healthy food. Exercise will also boost your energy and make you feel great, so keep up any regular sporting activities.

I encourage students to seek help with their learning wherever necessary. Classroom teachers and Leaders of Learning are available to offer feedback and advice to support learning and wellbeing.

Ms Carmel Zuino

Assistant Principal: Mission

Strengthening Community through Mass

Celebrating the Eucharist together as a faith community is at the heart of our mission here at Xavier Catholic College. Before the start of the school year, our staff, alongside colleagues from Holy Family and St. Francis Xavier Primary Schools, gathered to mark the year ahead with our Opening Mass in the Magis Centre—a powerful reminder that we walk this journey together, supported by our shared faith. More recently, at our first Whole School Mass, Fr Anselm encouraged us all to “See Kindness, Peace, and Goodness” in one another and in the world around us. This message has set a positive tone for the year, calling us to reflect on how we can embody these values in our everyday actions.

As we continue to grow as a faith-filled community, the Xavier Catholic College Mission Team warmly invites all families, friends, and members of our extended community to join us for the six House Masses that will be celebrated throughout the year. Each Mass offers a unique opportunity for students, staff, and families to come together in prayer and fellowship. Our first of these, the Campion House Mass, will take place on Saturday, 22 February, at 5:30pm at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church (Corner of Crane St & Cherry St, Ballina). Students from Campion House will take on special roles as readers and ministers, helping to lead what promises to be a meaningful celebration.

We would love to see a strong show of support for each of our Houses — Campion, Faber, Ignatius, MacKillop, McAuley, and Nagle. These Masses are a chance not only to celebrate the unique spirit of each House but also to deepen our collective connection as one College and Parish community. Of course, you are most welcome to attend all six Masses and bring friends and extended family along. Your presence will enrich our celebrations and further strengthen the bonds that unite us. We look forward to seeing you there.

Uniform

A reminder to all families that our uniform is to be worn correctly while at school and beyond the school gates, upholding our College standards from ‘driveway to driveway.’ Our uniform is a symbol of pride and belonging, and it reflects the high standards we uphold as a College community. We encourage all students to change out of their school uniform and into casual clothes before commencing their weekend activities. Changing out of uniform not only helps students mentally transition into their time of rest and recreation but also ensures that our uniform is always seen to be worn properly and with respect.

Friday afternoons and evenings, particularly in Lennox Head, have been noted as times of concern. We are increasingly seeing students opting to partially change out of their uniform—for example, swapping school shoes for casual footwear, going barefoot, or mixing uniform items with casual clothing. This practice can leave students still recognisable in their uniform, and it undermines the standards we seek to maintain. When the uniform is worn partially or incorrectly, it sends a confusing and inconsistent message to the wider community about our expectations.

We ask for the support of all families in reinforcing the importance of wearing the uniform properly or changing out of it entirely before socialising in public spaces. This simple practice helps uphold the dignity of our College and fosters a culture of respect for the uniform and the values it represents. Parents, your cooperation in reminding students of this expectation is greatly appreciated.

e-Bikes and travel beyond the school gate

As a community that deeply values the safety and wellbeing of every individual, I want to draw your attention to an ongoing concern regarding the use of e-bikes. This is not only an issue within the Xavier Catholic College community but also across the wider Northern Rivers area. While we understand the convenience and enjoyment that e-bikes can bring, their use requires a high level of responsibility and care.

Families are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure these powered vehicles are used safely, appropriately, and with consideration for others. We are particularly concerned about students riding e-bikes without helmets or with helmets that are not fastened securely and appropriately. This is incredibly dangerous. A moment of carelessness could result in grievous injury, permanent disability, or even loss of life—an outcome that would devastate our College community. We care deeply about one another and only want the best for every student and family and of course the members of our local community.

As part of our commitment to safety, students who act irresponsibly while in College uniform can expect follow-up and appropriate consequences, as their actions reflect not only on themselves but on our entire College community. Wearing our uniform is a symbol of pride and respect, and the way our students conduct themselves beyond the school gates should always uphold our values, particularly when in uniform.

This is also a reminder to all drivers, bike, scooter, and skateboard riders, pedestrians, and bus travellers to uphold our College values of kindness and acting justly in all situations. We all share the roads and pathways, and by demonstrating care and respect, we can ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to create a community where every student feels safe, valued, and supported.

Mr Peter Fear

Catechesis & Evangelisation

Diocesan Faith Formation Events

This term has TWO exciting opportunities for students to participate in Diocese-wide events. These events are open to all students of our school who are interested in growing their understanding and connection to the Catholic Faith. Students interested in applying for either event must complete the Google form sent to their school email to express their interest in attending. All forms must be returned by the end of Week 4 to be considered.

Year 7 - Transitus (Week 8, March 25 and 26)

Transitus is a two-day retreat offered to Year 7 students from our Lismore Diocese. Xavier Catholic College has the opportunity to take a small number of interested Year 7 students to this retreat, where they will meet other Year 7 students from our Diocesan schools, learn about their faith, participate in fun activities and celebrate Mass with other Year 7 students from around the diocese. Transitus is designed to support our young people in their faith and their transition into Catholic Secondary School. The word ‘transitus’ was chosen because it is the Latin word for passage, crossing, movement over, and transition.  All interested Year 7 students are invited to complete an Expression of Interest. You do not need to be a Catholic to participate. A team will then be selected from all applications.

This year, Transitus will be at Tyalgum, and there is no cost for the selected students. All applications will be carefully considered before a final Transitus team is selected.

Transitus Promo video

Year 11 and 12 - LEAD (Week 7, March 20 and 21)

LEAD is a two-day Catholic leadership retreat for senior students. It is designed for students who have been engaged in Youth Ministry or are interested in leadership and wish to develop further as Youth Ministry leaders. The retreat will equip students with opportunities to grow closer to God, strengthen connections with other senior student leaders and become better equipped for mission so they can participate in leading Youth Ministry and other leadership and mission opportunities in their communities.

This year, the LEAD retreat will be at McAuley Catholic College at Grafton, and it will cost $30 per student, all-inclusive.

All students in Years 11 and 12 interested in developing their leadership skills in a Catholic Faith context are invited to apply. 

LEAD promo video

For more information about either event, please contact:

• Leanne Broadley (Leader of School Evangelisation) leanne.broadley@lism.catholic.edu.au, or
• Brendon Clarke (College Youth Minister) brendon.clarke@lism.catholic.edu.au
  
  

Volunteer Hub

At Xavier Catholic College, we believe in the power of giving back to the community and making a tangible difference. Our school motto, Act Justly, serves as a constant reminder that justice isn't just about fairness in the classroom or on the playing field but also about creating a society where we care for one another and work together to build a better world. Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways we can live out this commitment to justice in our local community. Volunteering is more than just lending a helping hand. It's an opportunity to actively contribute to the wellbeing of others. 

Are you ready to act justly? Here are some local opportunities:

• Volunteering at the Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championships
• Melanoma March Volunteers
• Brunswick Heads Beach Clean Up Australia Day
• Australia Seabird and Turtle Rescue
• Ballina Coastcare
• Parkrun
• The Spirit of Christmas
• Vinnies

College News

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 2025 Canteen Roster.

Community News

Byron Bay FC 2025 kicking off now!

Registrations are now open for season 2025 at https://www.playfootball.com.au/

• Miniroos teams for players 5-11 - mixed and girls only teams
• SAP Advanced player program for players 8-11, trials commencing 18th of Feb
• Youth teams 12-16 - trials commencing 18th of Feb
• Senior mens and womens 17/18 and up training now

All details are on our website, www.byronbayfc.com.au. Come join the biggest club in the bay, all players new and experienced welcome!