McAuley Catholic College Newsletter

Term 1, Week 7 - 9th March 2020

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers, 

Lent is the season for prayer, almsgiving - doing things for others, fasting and reconciliation. Last week in Mass we were reminded of the chaos of the world and how we each contribute to it through our own lives and the lives of others around us. This is reflected in the common attitude of “this is our world and we can do what we like with it”. Lent is a good time to reflect on what we do and the impact we have on others. On Sunday Fr Wilbur, a visiting priest from Tweed, gave a homily on the importance of prayer and the strength it provides, especially in times of contention and need. This resonated strongly with me because last week, as a  College, we experienced the importance of prayer, and the strength it can bring to individuals and a community, as we came together to pray for the full and speedy recovery of Molly Imeson (year 10) and for her immediate and extended family. 

I have wondered, at times, if our message of “faith and action” is really heard in our school community. My query was answered on Thursday and Friday and I do think our community “does get what we are about”, as I was able to witness the power of prayer; the power of gathering as a faith community that is based on the words and actions of Jesus Christ. The College community was given the opportunity to come to a Mass for Molly at lunchtime on Friday - which was an opportunity to pray for Molly’s recovery, for the family with her, and to support each other.  The room (P1) was overflowing with students ! It was a special moment in our school and made me a little emotional to be there and feel the strength, hope and care in the room. Each person was there for their own reason but as one we respectfully prayed together. 

Sometimes we think we don’t need prayer or faith or spirituality or the support of others. However, in times of adversity, in times of despair, of feeling helpless and sad - prayer has great power. It is often in times of hardship and adversity that we turn to our faith, to prayer, to Christ. And sometimes this sets us on a path of discovery, or rediscovery, of our faith. Fr Joe put out an invitation to come to Mass again - all are welcome. 

We continue to pray for a full recovery for Molly and for all her family. We also take time to think about and pray for all those in our community and beyond who are unwell, lonely, troubled or who have lost their way.

In my first newsletter I said I would outline my focus areas through this newsletter column.  A major focus for me and the College is RELATIONSHIPS. This encompasses student, staff and parent relationships. Ultimately we are about students and ensuring they have opportunities to grow and develop in all facets of their life.  In a recent article in the Daily Examiner I stated we are student focussed and faith based, and we make a conscious effort to build strong relationships.

I have had the pleasure of visiting our feeder primary schools and these will continue in week 7. The purpose of the visits is to promote McAuley as the best option for secondary schooling - particularly as we are a continuation of their Catholic education. We also take the opportunity to promote the upcoming OPEN NIGHT (17th March). For each visit I take past students back to their school. This is usually year 7 students and students from either year 10 or 11. I enjoy hearing what they have to say about McAuley - the canteen is always a popular topic as is friends and “freedom”. But they also talk about the learning they do, the subjects they like and the older students mention the care they receive and relationships they have with their teachers (without prompting from me). So far we have been to St Joey’s Sth Grafton, St Mary’s, Grafton and St Joey’s Maclean. It is important for us to continue to build on the relationships we have with our primary schools and ensure they become stronger, because we have so much to offer each other..

We have been collecting data on relationships for a number of years now and as a result of this data have implemented some strategies to improve relationships. One of our major investments last year and this year is in the implementation of the Berry St Education Model (BSEM). The students are learning about character strengths in PC lessons, and other aspects of BSEM and its various strategies are being implemented in lessons across all KLA’s. To find out more about Character Strengths go to https://www.viacharacter.org/ and take the free survey to discover your character strengths. This could lead to an interesting conversation with your children.

Other News

In the next few weeks I will be seeking feedback from parents, students and staff on the 2020 school photos - the product and the process.  

Please return promptly the General Permission and Verification of Details form. It is vitally important that we have up to date information from all families. The due date for return is Friday 13th March

Thankyou to all parents who continue to support our policies, particularly uniform and mobile phones. Some students are struggling with aspects of our rules and we appreciate the efforts parents make to support the College to ensure our students understand and follow our rules. A  gentle reminder to students that all long hair is tied up - this includes boys that choose to have a hairstyle that is short at the front and long at the back (known in my youth as a Mullet!). Also hats are not to be graffitied. Any student with a graffitied hat will need to purchase a new one. Alternatively, a new hat will be billed to parents if a purchase is not made in a timely manner. 

All students received an OPAL score in week 5. Congratulations to those that achieved pleasing scores. Students and parents / carers should use this information as timely feedback and students now take necessary action to improve their participation and effort in their learning. Class teachers and year coordinators can assist by discussing issues and giving strategies to the students who need to improve..  

FInally, our Open Night is on March 17th. You will notice a lot of advertising of this event and enrolments up and down the Valley. Please encourage all interested families to come along on this night.

Yours sincerely

Kate

Kate Thomson
Principal

“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.” Catherine McAuley

Quotes from Pope Francis

#Lent is the perfect time to allow ourselves to contemplate the pain of those who suffer without anyone to help them. It is the time to turn compassion into concrete acts of solidarity and care. Mar 7, 2020 Pope Francis @Pontifex

In this favorable time of #Lent, may we listen to the voice of the Lord. The more we are fully engaged with His Word, the more we will experience the mercy He freely gives us. Mar 7, 2020 Pope Francis @Pontifex

From the Assistant Principal

Flipside - Brainstorm Productions 

On Friday 28th February Brainstorm Productions presented their student wellbeing performance ‘The Flipside’ for Year 7 and 8. ‘The Flipside’ is a live theatre experience that addresses issues of (cyber)bullying, online safety, digital citizenship, bystander behaviour and online ethics. The performance highlighted the importance of personal responsibility, empathy, respect and values in the online AND offline worlds.

When bullying and revenge are used to wield power, Jack and Ella realise they must create an ethical roadmap to navigate the online world. When words, images or video are shared, how will the messages be received? What will be the consequences?

 ‘The Flipside’ is part of our student wellbeing curriculum and has been developed by education and mental health professionals. It challenges students’ perspectives on what is humorous, toxic, private, anonymous, humiliating, safe or appropriate online. Real student experiences are woven together to create a compelling narrative and theatrical experience, that poses questions about how we treat ourselves and others. The performance is supported by curriculum-aligned classroom activities that are designed to spark further discussion and expand on the messages from the play. 

Brainstorm Productions is one of Australia’s largest and most respected theatre in education companies, performing to over 360,000 students every year. They offer a range of programs to help schools build healthy and harmonious environments, addressing issues such as mental health, cyber safety, bullying, resilience, diversity and inclusion. 

If you would like to know more about Brainstorm Productions, you can visit their website: brainstormproductions.edu.au, or their Facebook page: facebook.com/Brainstorm.Productions.

Children’s Liturgy Morning Tea

All families are welcome to attend St Mary’s Church, Grafton on Sunday 15th March for Children’s Liturgy and a morning tea to follow. 

Excursions 

This is a reminder to all parent’s that excursion notes and payments must be handed into the College office before the day of the excursion. This is essential to ensure adequate preparation before the excursion takes place. 

Bus 5

Thank you to all parents who responded to the request for information on students catching Busways Bus 5. It appears that on most days the students who wish to catch this bus are able to do so. However, when the bus is overfull we will need to ask some students who are not transfer students to catch an alternative bus. Again, we appreciate the information you have provided to alleviate some of the stress around Bus 5.

UNIFORM

School photos were taken last week and this highlighted some areas of concern, which are currently taking place among some students: incorrect socks, long hair worn out, incorrect shoes, skirts that are excessively short and facial hair.  

The uniform policy can be accessed in the diary (pg 11 - 13) and on the website. Please note the following:

  • Students, both boys and girls, with hair at collar length need to have their hair tied back. No extremes of hairstyle, including extremes of colour are permitted 

  • Boys socks need to be pulled up

  • Girls socks are to be white; Both boys and girls are to wear white socks on sports days

  • Jewellery is limited to a watch, a single neck chain and one small ring, and up to 2 earrings per ear - small sleeper or studs. Facial piercings are not permitted and students will be asked to remove these. Only clear nose spacers are permitted 

  • Shoes are to be black leather polishable, lace up shoes with a heel

  • Skirts are to be worn just above the knee

  • Boys must be clean shaven at all times 

    Uniform will be discussed and checked with each year group over the following fortnight and parents will be contacted if ongoing uniform issues need to be addressed.

    UNIFORM REMINDERS:

    IF A STUDENT CANNOT WEAR CORRECT AND FULL UNIFORM

    Students are to bring a note signed by parent / guardian to school explaining the uniform issue. The note is countersigned by the HR teacher or Year Co-ordinator or Assistant Principal. This note is then presented to the office in exchange for a uniform pass. The uniform pass is carried by the student and presented when requested.

    If the student is wearing a non uniform item that is deemed unacceptable an alternative item of clothing will be offered to the student or parents will be contacted to rectify the situation.

    IF A STUDENT IS UNABLE TO WEAR THE CORRECT SPORT UNIFORM

    Students are to wear their full school uniform with a signed explanatory note and change into appropriate alternative sports gear before sport / PE. If the student is wearing a non uniform item that is deemed unacceptable an alternative item of clothing will be offered to the student or parents will be contacted to rectify the situation.

    Weekly Masses

    Each Tuesday students will attend a Mass in our College Chapel at 9am. The students attend with their RE class with their RE teacher. Parents and families are most welcome to attend: 

    10th March - 7.5 RE (Mrs Parkin’s class)

    17th March - 8.1 RE (Miss McAlister’s class) 

    Through the mass we encounter Christ through his Word and through the Eucharist. An essential part of Catholic education is to know Jesus Christ and deepen our relationship with Him. This is undertaken through attending mass and receiving the Eucharist.

    Mission Activities coming up 

    Yr 7 Reflection Day - Friday 6th March (notes sent home with details) - postponed to a date to be determined

    Transitus - Yr 7 CSO Retreat - 2nd-3rd April (application forms handed out) 

    LEAD - Yr 11 and 12 CSO Retreat - 19th-20th March (permission notes handed out) 

    Lenten Program 2020

    Fr Joe and Fr Emmanuel will be holding a Weekly 1-hour Lenten Program- "Be Opened" in the McCarthy Centre commencing on Wednesday 4th March at 11am and 7.30 pm. The program will continue every Wednesday during Lent. All Catholic school families are welcome. Further information please contact - christine.morrison@lism.catholic.edu.au or 0436 666 578.

    Parent Assembly News

    Parent assembly have recently donated some books to our Parent Library.

    Being 14 by Madonna King

    This book can help parents understand how your daughter is feeling, what she is thinking, and what you need to do to help her navigate the tricky teenage years to become an awesome woman. 

    Helping your Anxious Teen by Sheila Achar Josephs
    This book gives positive parenting strategies to help your teen beat anxiety, stress and worry.

    Self Harm by Michelle Mitchell

    This is an interesting book that explores why teens self harm and what parents can do to help. It reminds parents that you are your child's greatest advantage and advocate.

    Reminder that the Parent Library can be found in the College Office Foyer, Parents are welcome to borrow any of the books in this Library.

    Careers News

    Charles Sturt University Tour

    Year 12 students from McAuley College have taken up the invitation to join other North Coast high schools as part of the Coffs / Clarence Careers Advisers Network tour of Charles Sturt University at Port Macquarie, on the 10th of March. The students will get a full overview  of University life at the campus during the day tour. This is a great opportunity for the students as they seek information to select their career pathway. Days similar to this occur throughout the year so students are advised to take these opportunities when they arise.

    McAuley Careers Website

    This is a reminder to parents and carers to visit our Careers website. To access this site go to the College website and click on Teaching and Learning, click Careers and that will take you to valuable links to assist with information on jobs, Apprenticeships and Universities. The site can also be assessed by going to www.mcauleycatholiccollegecareers.com or via moodle. Your child is able to develop a resume or digital portfolio for free. Have a look at this great resource. Advice on how to help your child with Career Planning can be found in the 'For Parents' section. This provides valuable assistance for parents of Years 11 and 12 students.

    Rod Paton
    Careers Adviser

    Commerce News

    This term, Year 10 Commerce students have been studying Law and Society and Law in Action. Students were able to put their knowledge into practice when participating in the Mock Trial R v Kerling. The Mock Court revealed some budding barristers and well versed witnesses who presented their cases to the Judge and Jury. The trial was reported on by representatives from the media who presented a thorough report on the trial which resulted in a controversial “Guilty” verdict!

    We were also lucky to have Senior Constable Snow visit our classroom speaking about the role of police in society and the many responsibilities that a police officer has. She also demonstrated the procedures of an arrest and the standard equipment of a NSW police officer. It was great to learn about the Young Offenders Act, the rights and responsibilities of young people and working with youth in the Coffs/ Clarence area. We thank Snr Constable Snow for taking the time to speak to us with her enthusiasm and engagement, bringing to life our studies of Law in Action!

    Natasha Green
    Commerce Teacher

    Legal Studies

    Year 11 Legal Studies were lucky enough to have a guided tour around the Grafton Police Station. Students are currently studying The Legal System and were able to gain a deeper insight into the role of law enforcement in keeping the community safe. Senior Constable Snow and and Senior Constable Johnston provided an informative and interactive presentation covering the role of a NSW police officer, police equipment and its purpose, processes of arrest and charge, procedures at the police station and the many different commands that exist within the police force. We also engaged in discussion on Youth and the Law and  assessing the Legal System for fairness, access and equality (the key concepts of justice) with the many examples found in law enforcement. We thank both Senior Constable Snow and Senior Constable Johnston for their time and for providing such a unique and inspiring learning experience for our Legal Studies students.

    Natasha Green
    Legal Studies Teacher

    Sport News

    Swimming Carnival Results

    This years carnival saw many students participating and the day had an enjoyable atmosphere. There was some competitive racing, House chanting, Staff v Student relay and Fun.The points score was close all day and came down to which House performed best in the Relays. McCarthy House winning in the end.

    We had 9 students compete at the Diocesan Swimming Championships in Lismore. Matthew Parkin produced some excellent results and has qualified for the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges event in Sydney. 

    Matt finished 2nd in the 200m Freestyle and 2nd in the 200m Individual Medley plus a 5 3rd place finishes. 

    Elliott Speed has been selected in the North Coast Bulldogs Under 18 Team (Selected from Grafton to Foster Tuncurry play in the NSW Country RL Laurie Daley Cup) They have played 2 games and were successful in both, beating Central Coast Roosters and Parramatta 32 -12. This weekend they travel to Port Macquarie to play West Tigers. The support from staff and students has been much appreciated, as it is a very tough weekly schedule with the juggle of attending school, work and travelling to training 800 kms per week. 

    Student Leadership Team

    The past couple of weeks have been busy for both the College and the Student Leadership Team.  At our last Assembly, both the introduction of McAuley Fest and our Swimming Carnival champions were announced. With school photos and Ash Wednesday falling on the same day, we managed to make it through with a great attitude before the end of the day.

    A big congratulations to not only McCarthy house finishing First at our recent Swimming Carnival, with the most amount of points, but to everyone who participated and came along to the day. The ongoing encouragement and team spirit within each house showed a great sense of school community. Thank you to all staff, teachers, house leaders, captains and students who helped make the day fun and run smoothly.

    SLT will continue running dodgeball within the hall each Tuesday and Thursday, so come along, bring some friends and have a “ball”.

    It has been an exciting few weeks for the SLT leading up to the announcement of McAuley’s first “MCC Fest”. MCC Fest will be held on the 1st of April, Wednesday of week ten and family/friends are more than welcome. There will be live music, food and entertainment at the event, during the celebration of Youth Week. It will be a great opportunity to introduce year 7 and new members of the school to our College community and the talents of different people within the school. More information about MCC fest will be announced over the next few weeks.

    European Tour - 2021

    The McAuley Catholic College HSIE Department is once again offering a European Study Tour in 2021. The length of the Tour is expected to be approximately three weeks, coinciding with the April school holiday period in 2021. It is proposed to visit Italy, Germany and possibly the Czech Republic and/or Poland. 

    The focus of the tour is Ancient and Modern History, however other HSC subjects such as English, Creative Arts, Geography, Legal Studies and Studies of Religion will also be covered. Students do not have to be studying History in Years 11 and 12  to attend, but they will be required to complete a work book while on the tour.

    It is understood that the cost of this excursion may prevent some students from attending. The tour has been planned for a limited budget and interest is being sought a year in advance to give students the opportunity to work and/or save money in order to contribute to their trip.

    A letter was given out to Yr 11 and Yr 10 students and this contains more detail on the cost of the tour in 2019. It also has an Expression of Interest form that is due back by the 6th of April 2020. 

    The tour is open to all students in Year 11 and 12 who are enrolled in the College in 2021. The submission of an Expression of Interest does not imply that a student would be attending. 

    If enough Expression of Interest forms are received then we will proceed with the next phase of planning for the tour including a parent/caregiver information evening in Term 2. 

    Mark Bellamy and Matthew Lobsey
    European Tour Organisers

    Food for Thought

    One day an expert in the law, came to Jesus and tested him with this question:  “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”

     Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’  All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”  (Matthew 22:35+)

    Moses gave Gods’ 10 Commandments to the Israelites.

    The Pharisees and Sanhedrin turned those into some 630 Laws.

    David turned them into 15 (see Psalm 15)

    Isaiah into 11

    Micah into 3  And what does the Lord require of you?

    To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly[a] with your God.

     

    Now Jesus into 2. He could have left it at the first and greatest commandment.

    This would have left us with our feet planted firmly in the air.

    You cannot truly love the Lord our God without extending that love to our neighbours.

    That’s one of the reasons that we, here at McAuley Catholic College extend His love through the food trailer into our community.    (David Ogg)

    Student Birthdays

    Birthdays

    Maggie Cooper, Layla Cramb, Madeleine Howell, Wyatt Brett, Brooke Surawski, Sharlee Cook, Axel Hargans, Jasmine, Miles Jack, Peta Girdler, Abigail Goodall, Darnell Robinson-Johnson, Kayla Ellis, Kasey Shannon, Rani Anderson, Tarnah Campbell, Jorja White, Joel Ashby, Matilda Sheehan, Heidi Lewis, Jett Nikas, Dylan Morrison, Isabelle Brennan.