Contents - Term 1, 2010
3...... Project Compassion 2010 12-13.....Focus on Secondary 4-5...... Religious life of the school 14-15.....Teaching & Learning in our Catholic Schools 6...... Parents & community 16...... Student Support Services in our Catholic Schools 7...... Environmental news 17...... News from our Northern & Southern Schools 8...... ICT in our Catholic schools 18-19.... News from our Townsville Schools 9...... Early Years Education 19...... News from our Western Schools 10-11....Focus on Primary
Diocesan Education Director’s Welcome Council Update We started our school year with the wonderful news of the confirmation of the canonisation of Mother Mary MacKillop A new decade has begun and the Diocesan Education that will take place in October. Many of our schools have a Council (DEC) met for the first time this year on February 3rd. special connection to Mary MacKillop and together with our At each meeting the DEC considers ways in which Catholic Diocese, we will be celebrating and sharing her remarkable Education responds to the Bishop’s agenda by engaging in story as Australia’s very first Saint. discussion about trends, actions and ways forward.
This year we are placing a special focus on our environment, keeping in line with the Bishop Michael Putney’s agenda for the last few years has official Queensland Year of Environmental Sustainability (YES 2010). Some of the fantastic focused on the following issues: environmentally sustainable projects that are taking place in our schools are featured in 1. Catholic families who have children attending non the new environmental section of this publication. We have also redesigned the Catholic schools, particularly those who are doing so due environmental news section of our website to include ongoing stories of eco projects to financial reasons. What can we do to reach these throughout the Diocese. families and how do we reach them? 2. The commitment to the enrolment, retention and Unfortunately due to the arrival of Cyclone Ului, we had to postpone our planned Parents educational achievements of Indigenous Students. as Partners conference for principals and members of school boards. This workshop will be 3. The commitment to spirituality, meditation and prayer for rescheduled for later in the year, providing us with an opportunity to discuss the theory students and staff in our schools. and practice involved in encouraging and implementing effective parent leadership in schools. Certainly, we consider parents to be the first and foremost educators of their One of the DEC’s primary responsibilities is policy in Catholic children, with schools being partners on this journey. If you have any questions about schools in the Townsville Diocese. There are a number of how you can become more involved in the life of your school, I encourage you to talk to policies up for review this year: your principal. • Sexual Harassment • Discipline I am always inspired by the incredible work that is taking place in social justice in our • Resolving Conflict within our Schools schools throughout the Diocese. This term we have again focused our collective efforts • Commercial Sponsorship in Catholic Schools on Caritas Australia’s annual Project Compassion campaign. This publication outlines the • Opening, Modification or Closure of Educational Facilities many ways in which our school communities have contributed to fundraising and have • Teaching of Human Sexuality engaged in education about the work of Caritas. Social action is one of the cornerstones of a Catholic education and by teaching our students to become aware and involved in We look forward to another year of support and involvement social justice, we are living out the Gospel values of Christ. in Catholic schools in the Diocese of Townsville. We certainly have much to celebrate in our school communities and much for which to be thankful. We are now on Prof Sue McGinty Twitter Chair God’s blessings Diocesan Education Council Follow us at Dr Cathy Day Director www.twitter.com/tceo
Education Issues - Useful Websites Several key education issues were introduced and highlighted during Term 1, including the launch of the Federal Government’s My School website, the introduction of the Australian Curriculum and the Queensland Government’s Green Paper A Flying Start for Queensland Children that in particular refers to the movement of Year 7 into secondary. The following websites provide information on these key issues:
My School Website - www.myschool.edu.au Australian Curriculum - www.acara.edu.au/curriculum.html A Flying Start Green Paper - www.qld.gov.au
Ryan Catholic College hosted one of the Queensland Government’s community forums during Term 1 to discuss the Green Paper A Flying Start for Queensland Children. Students Tim Huppatz, Brittnay Gay, Jacqualine Kosanovic and Alex Papageorgio with Education Minister, Geoff Wilson.
2 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 ProjectCompassion2010
P roject Compassion is an annual fundraising campaign through Caritas Australia that began in 1966 and is now the Project largest humanitarian fundraising campaign in the country. Compassion As Project Compassion falls across the six weeks of Lent, Launch Catholic schools and parishes throughout Australia received educational materials aimed at broadening the at The Marian School way we view the world. International speakers from partner organisations also visited Australia to participate in a public On Shrove Tuesday, The Marian School speaking campaign at schools, parishes, hosted the Launch of Project community groups and through the media. These Compassion 2010. Representatives international visitors told of their personal experience with from Catholic schools and parishes some of the hundreds of grassroots community gathered with Bishop Michael Putney development programs that are supported by Project to mark this annual event. Students Compassion. from Year 7 happily made pancakes on the BBQ that were later enjoyed for Blueprint for a Better World - 2010 Project Compassion morning tea. theme Fr Peter Quilty and Bishop Michael Blueprint for a better world is the 2010 theme for Project spoke of the positive and life giving Compassion, inspired by the Millennium Development effects that Caritas, through Project Goals (also known as the MDGs). These are eight Compassion, has on the most life-changing goals to halve world poverty by 2015. With vulnerable in our world. Those present 1 billion people still living in extreme poverty, we must were encouraged to not only support become aware of the sufferings of humanity, and put our Project Compassion themselves, but to join in solidarity with others to bring a loving, compassion and faith into action. healing presence of Christ into the world. This year’s Launch was the final one for Fr Peter Source: Caritas Australia www.caritas.org.au who, after many years is handing on the baton as the local face of Caritas to Mrs Marie Radford.
All at The Marian School wish Fr Peter and Mrs Radford God’s blessing in their new endeavours.
Supporting Project Compassion in a ‘cool way’
St Anthony’s Catholic College Social Justice Students at the Junior Campus at Ryan Ministry made pancakes Catholic College supported Project for Shrove Tuesday, Compassion in a ‘cool way’ this year. Each raising funds for Project year students from Prep to Year 4 make Compassion. and sell ice cups with all proceeds going to Project Compassion.
“The students really like the fundraiser as it gives them a chance to participate in this Students Kate Todd (Prep), Jerricho Crame wonderful charity,” Deputy Principal Junior Caritas Cafe (Year 2) and Sierra Laidlow (Year 2) enjoying Campus, Paula Duffy said. the ice cups. Southern Cross opened its inaugural Caritas Café during Lent, using proceeds to purchase a At the Car Wash! cow for a family in Uganda. There were soap and suds galore on Saturday 6th The cafe sold milkshakes March, as students from St Colman’s School held and‘mooalicious’ ice cream a car wash to raise money for Project cones with sprinkles. Compassion. Organised by year 6 student Liam, to fulfil his leadership goal, it was a The senior students of the school fantastic day with excellent results. $270 also participated in a global reality dollars was raised which will be given to Caritas meal during Lent. Only a small Students feast on to support Project Compassion. It was fantastic number of students left with a full ‘mooalicious’ ice to see so many students taking part in this stomach, however all left with a greater cream cones at wonderful cause. The day would not have been understanding of the inequality of our the Caritas Café. possible without Liam and his family for organising world in relation to the global issues of the event, students who helped wash cars and hunger and poverty. everyone who took their car down and supported this event. 3 Religious Life of the school
Creating a Franciscan Spirituality at St Anthony’s
A school in the Franciscan tradition aims to create…
• an atmosphere that is fraternal • a sense of solidarity and belonging among all persons at the school • a community of self-disciplined persons • a place of pardon and peace • a community of service within the larger social community • a human environment of beauty
St Anthony’s Catholic College is founded in the Franciscan tradition and to this end teachers gathered on 22nd January to explore Franciscan spirituality and how it permeates the everyday lives of the community at the College.
Franciscan Missionary Sister Sr Pauline Robinson FSC led teachers through sessions exploring the evangelical foundations, theological expressions and devotional forms of Franciscan Spirituality. Teachers were given the opportunity to discuss and share their experiences of the many ways Franciscan spirituality can be embedded within all aspects of school life.
As a result of this experience the college will continue to focus on and develop knowledge of the Franciscan traditions so as to enrich the lives of their students. Throughout the course of this year, all students and staff will make use of strategies and resources identified on the day to continue to build the Franciscan charism of our College. “Where there is love and wisdom there is neither fear nor ignorance.” - St Francis of Assisi
School Leaders Choose the Tau Cross
Prayer and Worship are integral to the life of St Colman’s School in Home Hill. We begin each year with a Liturgy of the Eucharist where, as a school community, we ask God’s blessing upon our Year 7 students (our school leaders) and the journey we embark on together.
This year has a special focus on environment being the Year of Environmental Sustainability and the United Nations Year of Biodiversity. His Holiness Pope Benedict asked us to care for the earth and be good stewards of creation.
Year Seven, after much research and reflection, took the Tau cross of St Francis of Assisi as their symbol for the Year. St Francis is the Patron Saint of ecology and used the Tau cross as his symbol. Each student took a jigsaw piece and decorated it with a value that would enable them to be good leaders, then put the pieces together to make the cross. The banner will hang in the classroom for the remainder of the year along with their Leadership Pledge as they live out the Gospel values they espouse as leaders.
TOP | Prep students at St Peter’s School in Halifax meditating for the first time… some of them thought that closing their eyes meant covering them with their LEFT | Year 7 students at St hands! Colman’s School in Home Hill BOTTOM | The Ladies Auxilliary at St Joseph’s Catholic School in Mount Isa have selected the Tau cross of St raised funds to purchase prayer tables and hand-painted crosses for each Francis of Assisi as their symbol for classroom. Pictured L to R is Jess Clarke, Louise Armstrong, Rebecca Pascoe, the year. Roanne Elliott, Janelle Troxell and Jodie Sharp (standing behind)
4 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 The diagram below represents the four components of the Religious life of the school (source: Guidelines for the Religious Life of the School, Brisbane Catholic Education).
• Religious Identity and Culture • Evangelisation and Faith Formation • Prayer and Worship • Social Action and Justice
Each component, while being interrelated and mutually reinforcing, provides a significant focus on a distinctive aspect of the religious life of the school.
Students learn about the work of Caritas Australia
Some of our schools were fortunate enough to host a visitor from Malawi, Africa, brought to Australia by Caritas Australia, to speak of the effects of immense poverty in his country. Mr Carsterns Mulume is a strong advocate of the poorest of the poor and this has seen him joining national networks that advance this course. His major achievements include facilitating production of a strategic plan that focuses on empowering communities to undertake development on their own for their own destiny.
Year 7 students at The Marian School in Townsville were captivated by the first-hand experience of a man who has encountered such poverty. The students were very interested to hear how children and families survive such conditions and they came away with a sense of deep gratitude for all that they have in Australia.
The students and their teachers, Janette Power and Robecca Sorrensen have undertaken to learn more about Caritas Australia and Project Compassion and the work that they do globally. The classes have been working through the Millennium Goals and could relate Carsterns’ experience with the work they have been doing in class.
Carsterns was thrilled with the response he received from the Year 7 students and felt they were very well informed with issues concerning Caritas. The students of The Marian Catholic School wish to thank Carsterns for giving his time to share his experiences, and also thank Mrs. Marie Radford for organising the visit.
Caritas’ international guest speaker, Mr Carsterns Mulume, visited several schools in the Townsville Diocese. Mr Mulume is pictured with Helen Forde (Caritas) and students, Sesedzah Mutero and Michelle Kahondo at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Mount Isa
Finding Your Song - The Courage to Lead
The St Margaret Mary’s College leadership camp for Year 12 students held during Term 1 fulfilled the Evangelisation and Faith Formation components of the Religious Life of the School. The girls enjoyed spiritual formation, celebrating and working with each other on ways to communicate their message to other students.
The theme for this year’s camp was Where is Your Song – Finding the Courage to Lead. Students had the opportunity through workshops and activities to metaphorically reflect on the song they will sing this year and having the courage to sing it. Dance was also a significant part of this camp, where students in their House groups prepared presentations that were later performed at the College’s pre-swimming carnival assembly – an annual showcase event.
Certainly, in only three days, it was encouraging to see how the girls worked together to discern their theme and choreograph an all-singing, all-dancing routine reflecting this theme. The seniors of 2010 are set to surprise us all with their extraordinary talents and enthusiasm, their energy and sense of fun. They stand at the foot of the climb that is Year 12 and they are ready to take on the challenge and leave their mark. Leadership Retreat
Year 12 students of St Anthony’s Catholic College attended a Leadership Retreat on Congratulations! Magnetic Island, providing them with Congratulations to two of our teachers who opportunities to pray, reflect and develop have recently completed further study - skills in areas of leadership. The students were Justen Orford (Holy Spirit School) has also given the opportunity to explore and completed his Master of Arts in Theological develop the Franciscan culture. Studies and Erin Fuller (The Marian School) has completed her Master of Theology. Congratulations to you both! St Anthony’s students at their Leadership Retreat at Magnetic Island.
5 Parents& Community 2010
Diocesan P&F Update St Clare’s Catholic School, Burdell In a strategic effort to plan for the needs of the growing communities of the northern suburbs of What a busy start to the year! We have had the launch of Townsville, the development of a new Catholic school was recently announced. St Clare’s Catholic the somewhat controversial My School website School, Burdell will open for the 2011 school year with up to 130 students from Prep to Year 7. The www.myschool.edu.au – take a look and see what you school will eventually grow alongside the northern suburbs communities to cater for up to 800 think. students.
The State Government’s Green Paper ‘A Flying Start for Assistant Director School Services, Ross Horner, said the announcement of the development of Queensland Children’ community forums were held in St Clare’s has been met very positively by the local community, “Within a month of the Townsville and your Diocesan P&F Association was announcement inviting parents to apply for enrolments, we had received 30% of our target for represented. We were able to have meaningful 2011. Since then this figure has continued to grow and we are very confident of reaching our goal discussions with the Premier, Anna Bligh, and the for the first year,” Mr Horner said. Queensland Education Minister, Geoff Wilson. Both were genuinely interested in parents’ issues and input St Clare’s Catholic School has been architecturally designed to deliver 21st century education in a into education. The biggest issue was the Year 7 move to contemporary way. Consulting architects G+M Consultants have designed both inside and secondary. You can go online www.qld.gov.au and have outside learning areas with an emphasis on collaborative learning and connectivity. The school your say as the Government is interested in your views. will have an environmental focus in keeping with the Franciscan charism of the St Anthony’s Parish, to which it belongs. The QCPAC (State School P&Cs) invited parents from both Catholic and State schools to attend their “Construction is due to begin in June and we will be appointing a Principal in the second half of antibullying conference. It was well attended and very the year. Until then our office will manage the process to ensure the school will be open for informative. We hope to reciprocate and have a similar business come January 2011,” Mr Horner said. day later in the year. St Clare’s will be developed on Burdell Drive, Burdell. Enrolment applications are available Remember, we at the Diocesan P&F Associations around either by phoning Townsville Catholic Education Queensland and the P&F Federation are out there Office on 47730900 or visiting representing all parents and carers, working hard to www.tsv.catholic.edu.au. Townsville Catholic make sure your voice is heard. Education Office would like to acknowledge the funding contribution of both the Queensland Love God, love one another and Australian Governments.
Karl McKenzie President Minister Craig Wallace, Cathy Day (TCEO Director), Townsville Diocesan P&F Bishop Michael Putney, Ben Simpson (Stockland Project Manger –North Shore) and Fr Giles Setter (Parish Priest, Deeragun) at the official media launch of St Clare’s Catholic School.
Defence School Transition Aides working in our Catholic schools
Several of our Catholic schools in Townsville are fortunate enough to have on staff a Defence School Transition Aide, dedicated to working with defence force children and their families.
Defence School Transition Aides provide support to these children, particularly during their transition into and out of a school on posting or during parental absences due to deployment, exercises or courses. These positions are funded by the Department of Defence through the Defence Community Organisation wherever in Australia there are significant numbers of Australian Defence Force families.
The Defence School Transition Aides provide a number of services including: • Assisting ADF parents and children to become familiar with the school and its facilities; • Coordinating appropriate welcoming and farewell activities for ADF children involving the school community; • Supporting children at school during times of parental absence from home for service requirements; • Monitoring ADF children’s personal issues such as friendships, peer groups and any classroom difficulties; • Contributing items of interest to the school newsletter and website; • Providing opportunities for ADF families to meet other ADF families within the community; and TOP | Our Defence School Transition Aides • Maintaining contact with ADF families who are enrolled in the school. pictured with Gail McDonald (middle front row) from the Defence Community Our eight Defence School Transition Aides working in Townsville Catholic Schools met during Term 1 and Organisation. presented Townsville Catholic Education Office with three defence force bears which were gratefully received. BELOW | Defence Force Teddy Bears This group together work with more than 300 children and their families in our schools. presented to Townsville Catholic Education by the Defence Community Organisation. Source: Defence Community Organisation
6 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 EnvironmentalNews
In a strategic effort to plan for the needs of the growing communities of the northern suburbs of Townsville, the development of a new Catholic school was recently announced. St Clare’s Catholic YES 2010 School, Burdell will open for the 2011 school year with up to 130 students from Prep to Year 7. The school will eventually grow alongside the northern suburbs communities to cater for up to 800 To support the Queensland Government’s vision for sustainable schools in Queensland, 2010 has been students. declared the Year of Environmental Sustainability (YES) in Queensland schools. The aims of the Year of Environmental Sustainability are to: Assistant Director School Services, Ross Horner, said the announcement of the development of St Clare’s has been met very positively by the local community, “Within a month of the • Increase awareness and understanding of environmental sustainability issues; announcement inviting parents to apply for enrolments, we had received 30% of our target for • Support teachers to include environmental education for sustainability elements in their teaching 2011. Since then this figure has continued to grow and we are very confident of reaching our goal practice; for the first year,” Mr Horner said. • Empower students and schools to be more environmentally sustainable in everyday practices to reduce their ecological footprint; and St Clare’s Catholic School has been architecturally designed to deliver 21st century education in a • Promote the achievements of Queensland schools and their students in adopting environmentally contemporary way. Consulting architects G+M Consultants have designed both inside and sustainable practices. outside learning areas with an emphasis on collaborative learning and connectivity. The school will have an environmental focus in keeping with the Franciscan charism of the St Anthony’s As a partner in education in Queensland, Townsville Catholic Education is supporting the 2010 YES Parish, to which it belongs. campaign and in doing so, has adopted the YES logo (featured above), designed by members of the Holy Spirit School Greening Committee. This logo is now being used within school communities across “Construction is due to begin in June and we will be appointing a Principal in the second half of the Diocese. the year. Until then our office will manage the process to ensure the school will be open for Year 7 students Georgia Ryder and Faith Duffy business come January 2011,” Mr Horner said. For further information and useful resources in relation to the Year of Sustainability please visit: participate in “Clean Up Australia” day at St St Clare’s will be developed on Burdell Drive, http://education.qld.gov.au/curriculum/learning/sustainability.html Joseph’s Catholic School, Mundingburra Burdell. Enrolment applications are available REDUCE | REUSE | RECYCLE and Erin Carnwell from Queensland Nickel. either by phoning Townsville Catholic Education Office on 47730900 or visiting Source: Education Queensland www.tsv.catholic.edu.au. Townsville Catholic Education Office would like to acknowledge the funding contribution of both the Queensland and Australian Governments. Recycling GetsGlam! Holy Spirit School Townsville City Council waste collection trucks have been wrapped in a new, recycling smart design and Reduces Carbon will be prominent on the streets of Townsville. The new makeover was made possible thanks to the help Footprint of students from Ryan Catholic College’s Go MAD As part of its Year of Sustainability focus, Holy Group. The group submitted the design as part of Spirit School designed a special logo (pictured the Townsville City Council and Queensland Nickel’s above) to inspire students, staff and families. National recycling week art competition that was With two different sized footprints set on a blue held late last year. globe representing the planet, the green motto represents the community’s main aim for the Cr Vern Veitch, Environment and Sustainability Ryan Catholic College students Cara Eaton-Squillair, year, that of lowering its carbon footprint. Committee Chair, said that the final product looked Taylor Cabassi and Samantha Bruinn with Cr Vern great and sent a gentle reminder to residents to Veitch in front of the newly painted waste collection Principal, Paul Lucas, has been measuring the reduce, reuse and recycle. The truck will display the truck. school’s footprint for the past two year using student’s artwork for the remainder of 2010. Ecotude, a calculator available on the Sydney Powerhouse Museum website.
With staff making personal and corporate St Anthony’s commitments to live more sustainably, Paul is confident that the Student Environment Hi-Tech Ovals Help the Environment Council (The Busy Bees) will receive its best support yet. The two new ovals located in Joanne Street (adjacent to the St Anthony’s Catholic College Assisi Campus) were handed back to the College at the start “It’s our aim to lower our carbon footprint in of the school year. These ovals now feature a fully electronic watering little and large ways” says Year 1 teacher, Sally system which adjusts watering requirements to 32 mm per week and Heslop. has a direct injection system for fertilization that eradicates the need for chemical applications and reduces downtime of the ovals. “We will be installing a 2kw photovoltaic panel set to generate our own power as well as A computerised weather station (accessible at www.weatherdata.net. installing movement sensors to control light au/sacc) automatically adjusts the watering system in response to any settings in fourteen areas. This will be in rainfall resulting in considerable water savings. addition to many power saving strategies already introduced with our Save a little power every hour programme,” she says. St Anthony’s students enjoy the new high tech ovals with a computerized weather station.
7 ICT in our Catholic Schools
Talking with Keeping smart and safe online Our ICT Team SOURCE: Federation of Parents and Friends Association of Catholic Schools Qld newsletter, Volume 28, No. 7, November 2009.
We see and hear in the news of the high incidence of cyber bullying and many Kevin Pollard parents think that their child wouldn’t be involved in that type of behavior. The fact ICT Support Manager, is however, between 7-10% of students are bullied either by mobile phone or on the Townsville Catholic Education Office internet (emails, youtube, facebook, twitter etc). There are much larger numbers of students who participate in this bullying simply by forwarding one of these emails, photos or videos on to someone else. They do not think of this as bullying, but by Q. What does your role involve? simply passing it on, they are encouraging it. More than 15% of students are having A. I am responsible for the IT infrastructure projects in the Diocese a cyber conversation with someone they do not know and this could represent a such as the networking and wireless infrastructure project to danger to your child if they give out personal information. There are many programs meet the Digital Education Revolution program. I am also available that provide information for parents and students. One of the latest is responsible for service delivery to schools through the ICT team Smart Online, Safe Online www.soso.org.au which offers the following checklist for and high level project design for our secondary colleges. children
Q. What do you mean by ‘high level project design’? Cyber Bullying involves: A. A good example is the work I am currently doing at Ryan Catholic College. Ryan is in the process of rolling out 600 • Teasing someone by posting nasty comments on their facebook or myspace notebooks through the Digital Education Revolution and for this page/wall; to happen, their entire computer network had to be reviewed • Not telling someone who you are online and telling them to “guess”; and now has to be redesigned to cater for this new technology. • Creating an internet poll about someone without their consent (either over IM or on a web site); Q. What is the most rewarding aspect of your day to day job? • Creating a group page or forum thread about someone without their consent A. I am happy that what I am doing is directly affecting student • Posting photos or information about someone on a website without their outcomes. If students have a good IT experience in their consent; classrooms, it will facilitate and impact learning in a positive way. • Teasing or frightening someone over an MSN chat; I also like working with teachers and staff in schools – helping • Changing your profile status to embarrass or hurt someone’s feelings; them to maximize the use of the technology in their classrooms • Forwarding a private email or MSN message without the permission of the other and day to day life in the school. person; • Logging on to someone else’s social network without their permission; and Q. What qualifications do you have? • Sending threatening or unwanted messages A. I have industry accreditation in Microsoft Certified Systems Engineering and am constantly updating my skills through The Australian Government also has a website www.cybersmart.gov.au that has ongoing professional development. I have also just initiated a important information for teachers, parents and students. There are downloadable certification program for our ICT team for Network Plus resources for parents including strategies for keeping children safe. certification. This will enable our team to have a high level understanding of our wide area network and networks in schools.
Education Revolution Delivers Laptops to Ryan’s Year 9 Students
The education revolution came to Ryan Catholic College during Term 1 with the roll out of the Netbook program to Year 9 students. Under the Federal Government’s National Secondary Schools Computer Fund, the College purchased 230 HP Mininote computers for use by students.
The College’s ICT Committee spent many months researching what would be the best use of the funding allocation. “The choice of these computers allows teachers and students the ability to access resources anywhere, anytime in and out of the College,” Principal David McNeale said. “These computers will bring the College to a 1:2 computer ratio for students in Years 9 to 12 and with additional Government funding we aim to be at 1:1 by the start of 2011.”
On hand for the launch was Federal Member for Herbert, Mr Peter Lindsay and Director of Townsville Federal Member for Herbert, Peter Catholic Education, Dr Cathy Day. With the dedicated work of the College’s ICT staff and assistance from Lindsay and Catholic Education Director, Townsville Catholic Education ICT staff, the rollout went off without a hitch and students are enjoying Cathy Day with Year 9 student, Emma-Lee the freedom that these devices provide them. Lancaster.
8 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 ICT in our Catholic Schools Early Years Education
Early Years Education What the new Australian Advisory Committee The mission of the Early Years Education Advisory Committee is to Curriculum means for Prep Year engage in professional dialogue around early years’ education, review current documentation and reform and advise the Director, through the Assistant Director, on the Early Phase of Learning (P-3) in Catholic schools Parents may be wondering how the across the Townsville Diocese. In 2010 the committee will focus on the new Australian Curriculum will following goals: be implemented in the Prep year. • Provide support and advice to schools in the implementation of the Currently Prep is based on K-2 Australian Curriculum; ‘play-based’ and • Provide schools with a deeper understanding through examples of ‘inquiry-based’ learning good practice of student-led investigations and open inquiry-based approaches. teaching and learning in the early years, particularly in Prep; • Provide current information and resources regularly to P-3 teachers ‘Play’ provides in schools across the diocese, using technology; opportunities for students to • Support the Mary MacKillop Child Care Centres across the Diocese; ask questions, create, imagine, • Support Kindergarten teachers in the Mary MacKillop Child Care test ideas, solve problems Centres and in schools; and engage in critical thinking, • Keep abreast of current national, state and local early years policies, form social groups and build new guidelines and resources and respond accordingly; understandings1. ‘Inquiry-based’ • Participate in consultative forums and provided feedback on learning provides children with national, state and local early years issues; and opportunities to investigate questions TOP | Prep students at St Mary’s • Publish a Religious Education resource book for all early years that are meaningful to them and to School, Bowen teachers across the diocese. take action as part of the inquiry. Both play and inquiry based concepts increase the child’s engagement in the learning process and helps them to develop high-order thinking. The Early Years Advisory Commiittee L-R | Caroline Fuller (St Colman’s School), Ann Wuth ( Holy The draft Australian Curriculum for Kindergarten (Prep in Queensland) Spirit School), Lee-Ann Barton recognises that play-based and inquiry-based learning remain important (Townsville Catholic Education), and strives to provide a balance between this and the formal teaching of Tanya Amos (Mary MacKillop four core learning areas (English, Mathematics, Science and History). Childcare), Diana Buzzo (The Marian School), Linda Jones (St Joseph’s School, The Strand), Katie These learning areas will be delivered in an ‘inquiry-based’ approach. For Whitworth (Townsville Catholic example, in English, children will use informal talk effectively to engage in Education). pair, group and class discussions and participate in group tasks. In Mathematics, children will identify simple strategies to investigate solutions and strengthen their reasoning to solve personally meaningful problems. In Science, children will explore and investigate things around them and in Bridging the Gap History, children use their interest in people and how things work to make sense of their world, through experimentation, practice and play2. between home and child care At this stage, the Townsville Catholic Education curriculum team is involved in the review of the draft Australian Curriculum and is in consultation with Source: National Childcare Accreditation ACARA (Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting Authority) in the Council (NCAC) Factsheet for Families lead- up to implementation in schools from 2011. (Full implementation is required by 2013). An excerpt from the NACA Factsheet, Bridging the Gap between home and child care “The new Australian Curriculum is being developed by the best team of curriculum professionals in Australia,” said Dr Cathy Day, Director of Maintaining consistent routines and experiences for children across home Townsville Catholic Education Office. and child care is very important, especially for babies and young children who may be entering care for the first time. Having elements of familiarity “Their brief has not been to ‘cherry pick’ from existing curriculums, rather to can relieve children’s anxiety about separating from their family, particularly look to best-practice in the international arena. while they are settling in to care. Continuity helps children to predict what is going to happen next and encourages them to feel as though they have a “Research has confirmed that children from as early as the age of three are sense of control over what is happening in their environment. This more than capable of formal learning, in fact, they enjoy the challenge and empowers children and supports their developing independence. accomplishment. Mary MacKillop Childcare centres have a range of NCAC factsheets and “We are welcoming this national approach to curriculum and look forward other information relating to families, children and early years’ education to the implementation of it in our schools and classrooms,” Dr Day said. available for parents. References: 1. National Early Years Learning Framework, Australian Government, 2009. Mary MacKillop Childcare has vacancies in all three centres – 2. Australian Curriculum - Draft, ACARA, 2010. Mundingburra, Kirwan and Ingham. Parents should contact Tanya Amos at the Mary MacKillop office on 4723 8487 to discuss your childcare needs. www.childcare.tsv.catholic.edu.au 9 Focus on Primary
Literacy Music Readers’ Cup Challenge Winton is Starts Early at Good Shepherd Wired for Sound! Good Shepherd Catholic Community School’s Readers’ Cup Challenge is an The Winton schools have taken delivery of professional musical in-school challenge that leads to the selection of the team that will compete in production and recording equipment thanks to funding secured the Regional Readers’ Cup Challenge to be held in Term 2. 17 students through PCAP. participated in the GSCCS Readers’ Challenge, having all read the required book, Wish, by Felice Arena. The students were challenged to correctly answer The package consists of a stand-alone, hard-disk digital recording as many questions as possible about the book. studio facility, professional vocal, instrumental and condenser microphones, with a 12 channel recording capacity. There is also an Principal of Good Shepherd Catholic amplification system incorporating a 10 channel mixing desk and Community School, Ed Burke said the 2x250 watt powered speakers for live or “studio” performance or event is a fantastic way to encourage production. reading and literacy. “Staging our own school based version of the larger Students and visiting artists working with students will be able to use Regional Readers’ Cup Challenge this as a powerful tool in music education, giving immediate helps us generate interest and feedback on musical production as well as enhancing all forms of enthusiasm for the event and musical performance. encourages students to get involved,” Mr Burke said. The total cost of the wonderful facility is $9,000 with PCAP providing just over 70% of the funding and the Winton schools providing the Winners of GSCCS Readers Challenge - balance. The equipment will also be available to community Samantha McKenzie, Christine Hislop, Elliott performing arts groups as these contribute substantially to arts Cleverly, Paige Bauer and Brayden Cameron education and performing arts opportunities for local students.
Miss Debbie Jensen, music teacher at St Patrick’s School (and a performance jazz musician) will conduct initial training in the use of the equipment. Mr Bill Reidy of BC Music Education will visit Winton Geography Schools in early June 2010 to conduct music performance workshops. Hughenden Students He will also spend extra days and evenings conducting community workshops and producing community based performances. He will Discover Antarctica! offer training programmes on how to get best value out of the functionality of the recording and Cultural studies teacher at St Francis School in Hughenden, Mrs Terressa Ford, production equipment. chose Antarctica as the whole school study for Term 1. Year 5/6/7 teacher, Miss Suzie Hennessy, knows someone who works in Antarctica and this has made the The equipment will be housed at study so much more interesting for students. Each week the school emails Miss St Patrick’s School and any Hennessy’s friend Wal, with questions about life in this arctic land. enquiries from interested persons or groups could be The students read the questions and answers after lunch every Tuesday to get a directed to David Manning at fascinating glimpse of life at the South Pole. Here are some of our St Patrick’s School. questions……. Q. What has the temperature been like this week? A. Last week the temperature was fairly typical. It went from minus 15 degrees to minus 60 degrees centigrade!!!! Brrrrrrrr Q. Do you see much wildlife? Debbie Jensen, music teacher at St A. At the moment there are 50 elephant seals on the beach. They are three Patrick’s School Winton pictured with the metres long and weigh over two tonne. The penguins are always inquisitive music and recording equipment. and will come right up to check out who you are and what you have. Q. Does a compass work at the South Pole? A. Yes, there is true south pole and magnetic south pole.
Social Action St Catherine’s Aussie Dress Day for Haiti What makes St Catherine’s School (Proserpine) such a special place is that we show we care about others in need. We certainly showed this on Friday the 29th of January when we had such a tremendous response to our Aussie Dress Day.
Students dressed in an array of Aussie colours and costumes and together raised $592.00. This money went toward supporting the people of Haiti who are suffering the effects of a terrible earthquake. The money was forwarded to Caritas, the Catholic aide organisation. The school also prayed for the families who have lost their loved ones, for the rescuers and volunteers and that out of this devastation, all Haitian people will work together to rebuild a stronger nation.
Katya Bandow dressed up for the Aussie Dress Day to raise funds for the victims of the Haiti’s devastating earthquake.
10 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 Focus on Primary
Leadership Year 7 Leadership Day at Southern Cross Year 7 students at Southern Cross Catholic School participated in a Leadership Day early in Term 1. The group looked at various styles of leadership with particular emphasis on the leadership style of Jesus Christ.
Among the speakers for the day were Luke O’Donnell from the Cowboys and the school’s Adopt-A-Cop, Mark Ryan. The children participated in a number of group activities that involved solving problems and working together in physical activities. The culmination of the day’s activities saw the Year 7 students leading their sports house in the war cry in preparation for the school swimming carnival.
Students Sarah Kuskopf, Catilin Deon, Aiden Standly and Mitchell McKee pictured with North Queensland Cowboys player Luke O’Donnell.
St Joseph’s Mundingburra Environment Creative Helps to Clean Up Australia! Writing
The students at St Joseph’s Catholic School, Mundingburra participated in a Clean Up Australia Day on Friday 5th March. Some of the Year 7 students walked around the playground, wearing placards promoting environmental messages about the amount of time it takes for different types of rubbish to break down eg: a banana skin compared to a plastic bag. It was an effective way to deliver the message about rubbish, recycling and looking after the environment.
Prep students Oliver Oh, Zane Mu doch, Jake Gilmore, James Hick-Ledez and Flynn Mintern with Year 7 student Zita Mitchell, wearing the banana breakdown placard Writer in Residence at Ryan Catholic College Sport Students at Ryan Catholic College were treated to a St Joseph’s Cloncurry visit from author Pat Flynn during the annual Writer in Residence week recently. An acclaimed children’s Welcomes Rugby League Promoters author, Pat spent time with students discussing what it takes to be a published writer. One of Pat’s books, The coach of Australian Women’s Rugby The Tuckshop Kid, received an Honour Book prize in League, Graham Murray, along with the 2007 Awards as well as being short listed for the Queensland Rugby League Trainee Queensland Premier’s Award. Development Officer, Matthew Toby, visited Year 4 students at St Joseph’s Pat worked with students, guiding them through the School in Cloncurry during Term 1 as techniques of story writing, from the ideas phase part of their tour to promote rugby through to editing the story for publication. league. Ryan Catholic College would like to thank Thrifty Car and Truck rental and Pickering’s Motors for their St Joseph’s Cloncurry Year 4 students with support of the Writer in Residence program. Graham Murray and Matthew Toby.
11 Focus on Secondary
Social Music Justice & St Margaret Mary’s College Action Choir Camp 2010 The well renowned St Margaret Mary’s College Choir, Bella Voce, started the year with a camp at James Cook University. The girls stayed at St Raphael’s College and enjoyed the hospitality of the Combined Catholic Colleges.
The camp was a lot of work, but also a lot of fun. The girls left school on Friday after a prayer service held to mark the start of the school year. Everyone left school in high spirits and arrived ready to sing. Sing they did! A group of sixty students from The girls learned a wide variety of songs in three and four part harmony. The Catholic secondary colleges repertoire included some difficult songs and while no one can claim to have in Townsville, Ingham and the learned everything perfectly, it has set the choir up for another great year. Burdekin attended the Caritas Just Leadership Day. On Friday night the girls participated in exercises designed to help them get to know each other and operate as a team. The games caused great hilarity and many excelled at charades. The camp finished on Saturday evening with an open rehearsal. In spite of appalling weather, parents and other family members turned up to listen to the girls singing. JUST LEADERSHIP Day It was a great performance in a relaxed and very supportive atmosphere. “Aspire not to HAVE Choir is a collaborative effort more, but to BE more” and can only happen with the co-operation and generosity of school, Recently, a group of 60 students from Catholic secondary schools in parents and students. Townsville, Ingham and the Burdekin attended a Just Leadership Day Bella Voce is fortunate to at St Patrick’s College, The Strand. The day was facilitated by Jenifer have these. Byrne, Queensland Global Education Advisor for Caritas Australia’s Global Education Program. The program provides students with an opportunity to gather for activities involving social justice awareness Students at the St Margaret Mary’s raising, advocacy and action. College Choir Camp 2010
Jenifer’s compassionate nature and moving stories involving real people with fresh hope for the future resonated with students and teachers alike. The students developed profiles of six people from different countries, including Australia and Papua New Guinea, who have had their lives changed by Caritas Australia. Jenifer encouraged Sport St Anthony’s Students Sign Up for the everyone to “aspire not to have more, but to be more”. Issues raised included justice in leadership, global poverty, hope and peace. Sports Academy
Approximately 1 billion people worldwide live on less than US$1 per The St Anthony’s Catholic College Sports Academy is up and running for day and 73 million the 2010 school year with twelve students from Years 8-12 participating. primary school-aged The Sports Academy offers opportunities to all Indigenous students in the children do not attend secondary school and aims to provide them with the motivation to finish Year school. Nearly 10 12, or a vocational equivalent, and to reach their full potential both physically million children and academically. under the age of 5 die each year, Although not yet big on numbers, the Sports Academy program at St many from Anthony’s is certainly big on talent and sporting prowess. Many of our Sports easily Academy members represent the school in the inter-house swimming, preventable athletics and cross-country carnivals. causes. Josh Battersby made the Australian Futsal team who will be travelling overseas in April. Most of our Sports Academy students compete at a high level across a range of sports such as AFL, Rugby League, Soccer, Netball, Volleyball and Futsal. 2
Students from St 2009 saw many of our students receive awards for their efforts in sport, Patrick’s College culture and school. Bonnie Lewis received a Silver Level award, and Justin at the Caritas Just Lauder, Jai Anderson and Sheniece Lee received Bronze Level awards. We Leadership Day. hope to build upon the success of 2009 by involving all of our Indigenous students in seeking excellence across all sporting, cultural and academic endeavours.
12 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 Focus on Secondary
Constitution Peer & Government Support SMMC Student to Represent NQ in National Schools Peer Skills Training Constitutional Convention at St Patrick’s College Students at St Patrick’s College participated in a two day workshop The North Queensland Constitutional to support and help their friends through the Lifeline Community Convention was one of a series of Care Peer Skills program. Students were trained in support skills, help conventions held around Australia during seeking, communication and problem solving strategies in a bid to the past 12 months. This year in Townsville, it prevent everyday problems escalating to more serious issues such as was held on the 5th March at the Thuringowa depression Library and Council Chambers. Approximately and self harm. 30 students from Townsville and surrounding districts attended the convention which considered the need for a preamble in the Constitution. Year 10 and 11 students from St Students discussed issues such as what it L-R Year 12 students from St Margaret Mary’s College, Sally-Maree Herlihy, Patrick’s College, means to be Australian, whether the current Saamiah Kahn, Greer Halloran and Townsville, preamble reflected current Australian Elisha Hudson at the North Queensland participated in the society and what should be included in a Constitutional Convention. Lifeline preamble to the Australian Constitution. Community Care Peer Skills program. Three guest speakers presented their views, which included a legal perspective, indigenous perspective and immigrant perspective, before school students delivered a four minute speech on the topic - Why the content of the Preamble to the Australian Constitution matters.
St Margaret Mary’s College student Saamiah Khan and Abergowrie College student Careers Mangu Yanner were elected to represent North Queensland as delegates at the Students Experience National Schools Constitutional Convention. Army Reserve Life The annual National Convention involves approximately 140 students from all over Australia coming together in Old Parliament House to engage in debate One hot day in February saw 26 Year 11 students from Ryan about constitutional issues. The Convention seeks to promote understanding and Catholic College swap their uniform for army cams for a lesson informed discussion amongst young Australians about the Australian Constitution with a difference. The group comprising 14 Certificate III and system of government. Fitness and 12 HPE students took part in a day’s work experience with 11 Brigade at Lavarack Barracks…getting a lot more than they bargained for!
For the members of 11 Brigade, the experience gave them an Peer opportunity to promote a career in the Army Reserve to these Burdekin Catholic High School’s Support willing participants in intensive training sessions. For the students, it gave them an insight into different careers Buddy Program involving fitness and what fitness levels it takes to be a soldier. The Burdekin Catholic High School Buddy Program has started the year as a huge Major Michael Lunn, who also teaches technology at Ryan success. A key strategy of the program is to help Year 8 students feel a sense of Catholic College, was on hand to belonging and to break down barriers. take students through 11 Brigade procedures. In doing this, the senior students organised a two week volleyball competition for the Year 8 students, volunteering to “This is the first time coordinate, participate and coach 11 Brigade has the teams.New Deputy Principal and welcomed a large coordinator of the Buddy Program, Mr group of students Brett Jones said the competition was for work a key strategy in getting the Year 8 experience,” he students active immediately. said. “These sessions were “The competition was very successful the first of as students consistently turned up for many planned games,” Mr Jones said. for the students as part of the “We are hopeful that many barriers ongoing fitness have been broken down and the Year sessions that are 8 students can now genuinely feel held weekly at that they have senior students who The winning Year 8 volleyball team ‘Water’ - Curtis Ryan.” know them and who they feel Castiglione, Brendan Montafia, Alicia Kirk, Maygan comfortable interacting with.” Valle, Daniel MacDonald, Annette Higginson, Damien Gorizia, Ashley Spencer, Shakieta Sollitt, Jacob Kenniff
13 Teaching&Learning
Talking with our Teachers Focus on Curriculum
Focus on Numeracy Michelle O’Grady Teachers from Catholic schools in the Diocese Year 4 teacher participated in the professional development program St Catherine’s School, Proserpine First Steps: Mathematics (Number) during Term 1. This program is an important resource that schools can use Q. How long have you been teaching? at all year levels to enhance the teaching and learning A. Four years of mathematics. Teachers will participate in a follow up in-service in April and the program will then be formally Q. What was your motivation to become a teacher? rolled out to schools in subsequent terms. A. When my eldest daughter started preschool I was entranced with the whole environment and what was going on in there. I would go in as a parent helper for a session and found that I did not leave until the school day finished. Focus on Differentiation I decided to take the plunge and have not looked back since. Teachers are currently focusing on the development of Q. What is the most satisfying aspect of your day to day job? strategies to differentiate their curriculum in the class- A. Seeing the ‘lights go on’ in a child when they understand and can apply this room to meet the individual learning needs of students. understanding to their day to day life, both at home and in school. The excitement and During Term 1, Learning Enrichment Teachers met with enthusiasm that a child displays when they get it and gain control over their own learning Sue Stephens who specializes in Gifted and Talented is worth it all. education. Sue provided teachers with strategies to identify gifted and talented students and extend their Q. What words of wisdom can you offer those starting out in their teaching careers? lessons to meet their needs. Teachers will participate in A. Build a rapport with your students and get to know them. Laugh, dance, sing, and create another in-service in Term 2, providing further strate- with them. Most importantly listen; really listen when they talk to you. They will tell you gies for curriculum differentiation. what they need to help them succeed.
Q. You must have many special memories spanning your career – would you mind sharing an example with us? Focus on Australian Curriculum A. Of course there are many but I take great pride over this one…Last year when teaching Prep -1 visual art, we were learning how to ‘see’ (Learning to see means being attentive A number of our teaching networks (Key Learning to things, seeing familiar things anew, seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary). Anyway Area Panel; Curriculum Developers; Principals) have the classes all decided to look closely at an animal. We had varied learning experiences participated in discussions around the recently released tailored so that the children could really understand the aspects of that animal. On one of draft Australian (national) Curriculum and have been these occasions we were flying like birds on the oval and this experience reached a Prep encouraged to develop responses to feedback to the boy who had not shown any interest before in art. When we got back to the classroom Australian Curriculum Assessment and Reporting and the children had to draw the bird that they were on the oval, the picture that he Authority (ACARA) regarding the Australian Curriculum. produced was amazing. He blew me away - what he produced was the end result of Townsville Catholic Education Office will be developing obvious listening and attention to detail which I assumed that he had missed. It made a plan to facilitate the implementation of the national me really realize that time to stop and stare, to touch and listen, time to explore and make curriculum across all schools and colleges in the choices, and time to just be, is essential. He ended up showing me many things that day. Diocese.You can view the draft curriculum and have your say by visiting www.australiancurriculum.edu.au
Congratulations and Farewell –Staff Retirements In the Name of Stillness
We farewelled six of our long standing staff members in Term 1 who A silent retreat for teachers was have been with Townsville Catholic Education for many years. Our held at Mission Beach during school communities acknowledged the retirements of Helen Martin Term 1. Periods of extended from St Colman’s School, Home Hill (31 years), Carmel Patteson from silence was a new experience Good Shepherd Catholic Community School, Rasmussen (27 years), for most of the teachers, yet by Cheryl Gossner and Vivienne Parry from Gilroy Santa Maria College, undertaking a number of Ingham (24 years and 18 years respectively), Norma Smith from reflective activities, they felt Columba Catholic College (23 years) and Ailsa Vernon from Burdekin they had a chance to re-engage Catholic High School (19 years). On behalf of Townsville Catholic with scripture and the Catholic Education we thank you for the way in which you have served the tradition of wisdom. The students, parents and families in our schools and wish you formation sessions were on the‘Spirituality of Listening’ and many felt this opened congratulations on your retirement. opportunities to again look carefully at their own teaching and life in general.
14 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 Teaching&Learning
Students Learn About the Work of Caritas Mulkadee 2010 Mulkadee is a key teaching and learning opportunity for students and teachers in our Catholic schools who are interested in developing their skills and knowledge in the arts. Mulkadee 2010 is scheduled to take place from Tuesday 17 – Friday 20 August, 2010, returning to the original structure of four days of intensive arts workshops and rehearsals, culminating with a Friday night performance.
For those who are new to the Mulkadee experience, it is an annual event for students in all Catholic primary and secondary schools in the Townsville Diocese. The program offers students the opportunity to workshop with experienced professionals in various arts including choral, band, strings, dance, drama, visual arts and multi media. Students then have the opportunity to perform at a culminating event. Teachers are also invited to be involved in the program as a professional development opportunity for their own knowledge and skills as arts educators. Year 7 student leaders from Catholic primary schools in Townsville and Palm Island participated in the first Caritas Just Leadership Day Mulkadee has grown each year since its humble beginnings in 2006 and this year Townsville for Primary Schools. Catholic Education is pleased to present the event at the Townsville Entertainment & Convention Centre. We are hoping to have up to 700 students participate in the event this year. There are some new as well as familiar faces in our team of workshop leaders this year. This year for the first time, as part of Project Compassion, Caritas Australia made available a Just Leadership Day for We are once again very pleased to have secured David Lawrence (UK) who will be returning to primary schools. Year 7 student leaders from Catholic Townsville to lead our choral workshops and performance. Other workshop leaders include: primary schools in Townsville and Palm Island participated in the program, hosted by Holy Spirit School and facilitated Band Peter Francis (Iona College, Brisbane) by Jenifer Byrne, Queensland Global Education Advisor for Strings Louise King (Cello Dreaming, Sunshine Coast) Caritas Australia. Drama Anne Frawley Mangan (Director Litmus Productions, Brisbane) Dance Kylie Ball (Artistic Director/ Choreographer Extensions Youth Dance The program introduced students to the eight Millennium Company, Townsville Development Goals that were set by the United Nations in Choral David Lawrence (UK) an effort to reduce global poverty by 2015. Activities worked to educate and challenge students to take a stand about Other highlights this year will include the Battle of the Bands, a multimedia project and a visual the injustices in the world. Students looked at a range of arts roadshow. Information will be communicated to parents and families through schools. case studies of people living in communities throughout the world as they related to the Millennium Goals. According to Holy Spirit School APRE, Justen Orford, the day St Joseph’s Welcomes was a unique learning opportunity for all involved. “It was a great opportunity for school leaders to come together to Scientists and Mathematician learn about and take on the challenge of facing global issues such as poverty and famine, “Mr Orford said. “Although Teachers and staff at St Joseph’s School, The Strand are fostering positive and ongoing these are such huge issues, it was a powerful way for the relationships with two partner scientists and a mathematician. The CSIRO Scientist in Schools children to find out about the small ways they can work as program and the Mathematician in Schools subprogram, allows scientists, mathematicians and individuals toward the greater good.” schools to work together. This project was funded under the Quality Outcomes Program administered by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and TOP | Christin Mallon ( RyanCatholic Workplace Relations. Scientists in Schools such as Dr Donna Rigano (School of Education, College) and Michael Sibley (St James Cook University) and Dr Nadine Marshall (CSIRO Research Scientist – Sustainable Michael’s School, Palm Island) Ecosystems) have joined with MIDDLE | Lewis Spriggs ( The Mathematician Dr Fiona Walls, Marian School) and Logan to work with Curriculum Teacher Cook (Holy Spirit School) Developer, Gail Woodward and staff from Prep to Year 7.
These experts work in partnership with schools, contributing in many ways to the richness the school provides through its curriculum.
Dr Nadine Marshall with students BELOW | Connor Mathews (Good Indiana Marshall and Harper Weekers at Shepherd Catholic Community St Joseph’s School, The Strand. School) and Laura Barratt ( St Joseph’s Catholic School, Mundingburra)
15 Student Support Services
Student Support Physical Activity Increases Learning Services in Our Catholic Schools Research has found that physical activity benefits children in many ways. Some of the benefits include strong muscles and bones, weight control, decreased risk of Townsville Catholic Education has a dedicated developing type 2 diabetes, better sleep and a better outlook on life. Students Support Services team comprising five Guidance Counsellors and two Speech Pathologists. Recent research also links physical activity with enhanced learning, memory, concentration and The team provides additional specialist support for mood. Children get most of their physical activity through strenuous play; therefore, keeping students, parents and staff of our Catholic schools. your children active is an important part of their healthy development. This includes counselling, student support and psycho-educational auxiliary services to primary As a parent you have the power to develop a lifelong appreciation for physical activity. Here are schools and some secondary schools in the Diocese. some ways you can help keep your children active: For Further information on our Student Support Services team, visit www.tsv.catholic.edu.au (our • Be a good example – be active yourself if you want your child to be active. Set a good departments). example by doing things like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking further from the entrance of stores. It is important to never make exercise seem like a chore or punishment – the best way of doing this is to find activities the whole family can do Social Skills Program together – this also allows for some family time. • Put a limit on screen time – watching television, video games and computers at St Michael’s School, Palm Island encourage a sedentary lifestyle by limiting movement for long periods of time. Children that watch more than five hours of television a day are eight times more likely to be obese Eight students from Year 2 at St Michael’s School, than children who watch less than two hours of television a day. Limit the number of Palm Island participated in a nine week social skills hours they’re allowed screen time – bored children will find things to do. program in 2009. • Promote activity rather than exercise – Each child is different and organised sports The focus of the program was on noticing and aren’t for everyone. Encourage physical activity rather than the sport. For example if your handling feelings, problem solving, recognising child likes craft, go for a scavenger hunt walk to find items that can be used for craft, or if different ways of behaving (assertive, passive and your child likes shopping, go for a bike ride or walk to the shops. aggressive ways), making friends and how to handle teasing. • Start young – incorporating physical activity into our children’s lives at an early age sets up a good foundation for fitness habits in years to come. The program was run by Helene Malouf and Tamara Hogan from Child and Youth Mental Health Service. The school’s Guidance Counsellor, Kellie Burton also assisted. Due to the success of this program, plans are under way to run another program for another group of students in 2010. Protective Behaviours Students at St Michael’s School on resource for classrooms Palm Island participating in the Social Skills program. The 2010 Protective Behaviours Calendar was launched during the March Principals’ Meeting as a new tool for teachers to be proactive in educating children on safe behaviours and creating safe environments. The resource is part of Townsville Catholic Education’s Kids Feel Safe strategy and was developed in partnership with Centacare and the Family.Life.Council.
Each month features a different theme that teachers are encouraged to reflect on with students through discussions and activities. Themes include emotional expression (safe and unsafe feelings), bodies and personal space, safety and safe choices, rights and responsibilities etc. Each page on the calendar offers teachers a range of age- appropriate ideas for activities and discussions. The information provided helps children identify their emotions and feelings, to think about their behaviour and gives them appropriate strategies to use in certain situations.
Rebecca Maunsey (Centacare), Gary Burdett (Townsville Catholic Education) and Nicole Stott-Whiting (Family.Life. Council) launch the Protective Behaviours calendar.
16 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 Students from St Peter’s School, Halifax News from our Southern & Northern Schools
BCHS Leaders’ Two Captains in the Perry Family! The Perry family in Ayr has achieved a rare double with eldest son, Jake, Commissioning being appointed school captain of Burdekin Catholic High School in the same School leaders of Burdekin Catholic High year as youngest son, Kurt, appointed school captain of St Francis School. School received their badges of office at a Congratulations to the Perrys! commissioning rite in Term 1. Parents were invited to pin the badges on to each student School Captains, Jake and Kurt Perry after they were presented to the school. Students from Years 8-11 asked each of the Year 12 leaders if they were willing to accept leadership of the school community. At the St Colman’s Farewells Helen Martin same commissioning rite, year 8 students (Provided by St Colman’s School) were also officially Helen accepted the vocation to teach in a Catholic School in June, 1979, teaching a Year 2 class. Since then welcomed to she has taught all year levels. Even though there have been many changes some things don’t change; the the school. traditions that continue through events such as St Patrick’s Day, and the big involvement in eisteddfods They were and end-of year concerts. There has always been strong support from the parent body who have always invited to the been so willing to lend a hand, to improve the school and provide resources. assembly where each one was Her immediate plans are to spend more time relaxing at Cape welcomed by Upstart with her husband, Ross and spoiling her new older students granddaughter Lila. She is grateful for the wonderful opportunity and presented she has had in working with Catholic Education and feels with a small gift. privileged to have worked with such caring and supportive people. Helen has found teaching rewarding and challenging and will look back on her career with many fond memories, particularly of the people she has had the pleasure of meeting over the years.
2010 Captains of Burdekin Catholic High School: Claire Barbagallo and Jake Perry Helen Martin with the Mercy Cross at St Colman’s School, Home Hill
TJ Ryan Commendation School Leaders Welcomed Gilroy Santa Maria College Year 12 graduate (of 2009) at St Catherine’s Stephen Sherratt, was a recipient of 2010 TJ Ryan High Commendation and a Certificate of Merit during the Corey Rees and Tegan Jansen (Captains); Layton McGregor annual TJ Ryan Memorial Medal presentation and Angel Shaw (Vice Captains) and Mitchell Clarke, Mikaila ceremony at Queensland Parliament House. The Norman, Georgie Bailey and Patrick Mahood (Sports Captains) awards program supports exemplary Queensland of St Catherine’s School, Proserpine with Fr Jose students who demonstrate outstanding leadership in their school and community and academic excellence through their achievements in Year 12.
17 Chicky Tueday at Good Shepherd Catholic Community School Chicky Tuesday at Good Shepherd, Rasmussen News from our Each year to promote fund raising for Caritas and Project Compassion, the Good Shepherd Catholic Community School decides on an animal theme – with funds raised Townsville Schools used to purchase that particular animal for a developing community as identified by Caritas. This year’s chosen animal is the chicken and thus Chicky Tuesday was born!
Students and staff participated in a day of activities including costumes, games and chicken dances to raise Adopt-A-School Program money to buy chickens for a needy community. Chicky Launched at St Joseph’s, The Strand Tuesday was a great success!
The 2010 North Queensland Cowboys’ Adopt-A School program was officially launched at St Joseph’s School, The Strand on Wednesday 17th March, with this year’s Physical Activity sponsor, Stockland. The program has been running since 2002 as a way of giving local Support Program schools an opportunity to utilise their ‘ adopted’ Cowboy as a role model for at Southern Cross students. NQ Cowboy player Aaron Payne is the ‘adopted’ Cowboy for St Joseph’s School, Southern Cross Catholic School is adopting the Physical The Strand and was on hand to launch Activity Support Program offered through the Townsville the 2010 program, much to the delight of Catholic Education Office. Physical Activity Project Officer, students! Andrew Bent, hosted the staff for a one hour introduction to the program. Each class and teacher has had a session Aaron Payne (NQ Cowboys) and Ben Simpson (Stockland) with with Andrew leading the activities. The equipment for the students at St Joseph’s School, The Strand for the launch of the program has arrived and the 2010 North Queensland Cowboys’ Adopt a School program. teachers are enthusiastic and keen to implement the activities.
Ryan Welcomes Back the Class of ‘09 Andrew Bent with students from Southern Cross Catholic School The Class of 2009 was welcomed back to participating in the Physical Ryan for an early reunion during Term 1. Activity Support Program. On hand to welcome them was Year Level Coordinator Lyall Herlihly, past Principal Mrs Andrea O’Brien and new Principal Mr David McNeale. The gathering was a chance for staff to catch up with students and find out what has happened since leaving school at the end of 2009. Some students spoke of their ability to gain apprenticeships, traineeships and university places. Year Level Coordinator Lyle Herlihy said that the College hoped to Ryan Catholic College welcomed back the Class of ‘09 make this an annual event.
Luke Hanna (Dance North) and Luke O’Donnell (North Queensland Cowboys) with students at Southern Cross Catholic School for the pre-launch of Dancenorth’s Gracei photographic exhibition.
18 Our Catholic Schools Term 1, 2010 “Rice House” supporters at the Good Shepherd Catholic College swimming carnival that took place on Wednesday 13th February, 2010.
ABOVE | School leaders of St Joseph’s School, Cloncurry participate in their leadership camp during Term 1. BELOW Year | Year 7 leaders 7 leaders of St of Joseph’s St Joseph’s School, School, Cloncurry. Cloncurry. L-R: BobL-R: BobGrant Grant(Principal) (Principal) Sr Sr Lyn Lyn Freestone, Freestone, Courtney Courtney McMillan McMillan and and Patrick Patrick News from our WallWall (School (School Captains), Captains), John John Burgess Burgess and andCaroline Caroline Gray Gray (Sports (Sports CaptainsCaptains -Flinders) -Flinders) Darcy Darcy Kersh Kersh and andLarissa Larissa Robinson Robinson (Sports (Sports Western Schools CaptainsCaptains - Kennedy) - Kennedy)
Columba’s Swimming Champions Ordinary People Can do A highlight in the Charters Towers competition calendar is the Interschool Things Swimming Carnival which was held on Thursday 25 and Friday 26 Extra-ordinary February at the Kennedy Regiment Memorial Pool in town. Throughout The theme for St Kieran’s School, Mount Isa, for the night of excitement, the Columba swimmers showed excellent 2010 is, Ordinary People can do EXTRA-ordinary fighting spirit, pushing for every possible point available. Three new Things, such as the examples set for us by the Saints. records were set during the carnival, all by Columba students. Each class was asked to choose a Saint and create a Columba Catholic College finished the carnival with the following canvas based on their selection. These beautifully trophies: the Morton Cup - awarded to the school who scored the most prepared canvases were presented at the school’s points in the girls relays events; the Don Doyle Memorial Shield - Beginning of the Year Mass and are now on display in the foyer. awarded to the school who scored the most points in the 13, 14 and 15 girls events; the Coleman Cup awarded to the school with the highest girls aggregate; the Championship Christian Brothers 50th Anniversary Shield - awarded to the school who accumulates the most Mount Isa number of points over the carnival. 2010 is a very special year for Good Shepherd Catholic College and Catholic education in Mount Isa. This year marks 50 years since the opening of St Kieran’s Christian Brothers College (which has become Good Shepherd Catholic College) Clockwise from top left: and 50 years of ministry by the Christian Brothers in Mount Isa. St Kieran’s Christian Champions Haynes Butler, Jaydon Brothers College opened on 25th January 1960 with three teaching Brothers and Busiko, Abby Blaikie and Caitlin 132 boys. The College continued as an all boys school until the rationalisation of Taylor with Shields and the Morton Cup. Mount Isa Catholic schools in 1985 when the boys were joined by the girls from San Jose College and secondary co-education began on the campus.
The College has been very privileged to have been served by the Christian Brothers who still remain active in the College today. Br Brian Cumming (a past Principal of the College) continues to influence the education of Mount Isa’s young Forensic people and support staff as the College Chaplain.The ministry of the Christian Brothers will be acknowledged scientists many times throughout the year and it featured prominently at the in Hughenden College’s Beginning of the Year Mass. The Cross was constructed by staff at the college to Students in Year 5/6/7 at St acknowledge the link to the Francis School in Hughenden had Teacher Suzie Hennessy, Christian Brothers. a great time learning about crime pictured with Year 5/6/7 scenes and the scientific ways used students at St Francis School in Jackson Moes, Sam Wilkinson and to convict criminals. They also fine Hughenden. Scott Perry with the Celtic Cross tuned their observation skills to that was blessed during the Good ensure that no piece of evidence Shepherd Catholic College Beginning was overlooked. A trip to the Hughenden Police Station organised of the Year Mass, presided by Fr Mick by adopt-a-cop, Sergeant Dave Hunter, further increased the Lowcock. students’ knowledge of this interesting branch of science. 19