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13 September - Final Day Term 3
21 September - Saints Race Day
30 September - First Day Term 4
2 October - Prep Vision Screenings
3 - 6 October - Qld All Schools Touch Football
4 October - College Art Show
7 October - Public Holiday King's Birthday
8 October - Come and Try Day
8 - 14 October - State Athletics Championships
8 October - DD Schools Cup Volleyball Year 7/8
9 October - Year 1 Excursion to Cobb & Co Museum
9 - 11 October - Year 5 Camp Brisbane
Grow Great People
We employ many people at the College to support your child’s journey in faith and knowledge so they may go into society knowing they are valued, valuable and ready to make a positive impact in our world. As a collective staff, we often talk of “Growing Great People”, and recently, I have been constantly reminded of the great people we have at our College. It is very evident through the interactions across the College every day that this is a priority, and is confirmed by the interactions I have the privilege to see. It is pertinent that we as a College analyse the work we do and determine if what we provide is actually what is provided to our community. Earlier this week I reflected on our last few graduating cohorts from OLSCC, and I am in no doubt that our graduates are heading out into the world to make a positive difference. And more importantly, we deliver on each student’s individual pathway. Whether it is to become a surgeon like Josh, a tradesman like Blake, an engineer like Zahra, or start your own business like Shawnee, our College provides the opportunity for all students to achieve and excel in their own pathway. And this is despite, or possibly because of the fact that we value the learning dispositions and how to build students to be drivers of their own success. We don’t offer every class face-to-face at OLSCC in senior secondary, though every opportunity exists for students to excel. In 2025, we will continue to refine and improve the subjects we offer as our numbers in senior secondary continue to expand.
I personally believe that the difference at OLSCC is that we really are an OLSCC family. Students have stable teachers, the expectations are consistent, our staff are invested in supporting students every day, and there is a constant sense of care, kindness and mutual respect, as well as getting the job done. Our students enjoy considerable opportunities to engage in, and the world is their oyster.
I trust everyone will enjoy a break this holiday and get to spend some quality time with those we love. I have again reminded our staff that for those on holidays, they must turn off their work devices for at least a week over the holidays and take some time to reset for Term 4.
Good luck to our Year 12 students as they relive their wonderful experiences from retreat this week, and prepare for their final assessment submissions, external assessments and graduation celebrations. These last 2 months of school will fly by no doubt.
Enjoy the break, and see you next term!
World Teachers’ Day – Teachers (like Mrs Dellit) make a difference
World Teachers’ Day is celebrated on 25 October this year, and we have our very own superstar teacher, Mrs Dellit, featured in the World Teachers’ Day material this year. She is being showcased for both her work in the inclusion of Braille into the classroom curriculum, and her love of teaching in a place that is very special to her – right here at OLSCC! See the attached World Teachers’ Day story of Mrs Dellit and please take the time to recognise and celebrate at least one of the wonderful teachers in your family’s life on the 25October.
Student Use of Mobile Devices and Social Media
The greatest cause of poor student mental health that I see across the middle years and senior years stems directly from students who engage with social media platforms, especially dark social, which are the private features of an app. These are especially prevalent in apps such as Facebook Messenger, Twitter Direct Messages, WhatsApp, Snapchat, Minecraft and Roblox. Secret rooms, multiple profiles, sharing of personal information with others they wouldn’t recognise face-to-face, perceived safety in the sharing of images, and the assumption that children (all persons under the age of 18) are capable of operating these platforms appropriately, are all causing major impacts on the mental health of our teenagers.
The real challenge is that we, as adults, are concerned regarding how our young people are using the device, though the reality is that it only takes one person, or a small group, in an online community to create significant damage to many technology users. Images on social media can be copied or captured and then used for a variety of purposes. Others can create a fake profile and communicate inappropriate messages, requests and “deepfakes” (a “deepfake” is a digital photo, video or sound file of a real person that has been edited to create an extremely realistic but false depiction of them doing or saying something that they did not actually say or do).
While there is considerable legislation surrounding firearms, vehicle operation, medication, drugs, alcohol, tobacco and now vaping to protect our young people from causing significant harm to themselves and others, social media platforms are effectively unregulated. This means we must act in a protective manner for our children by monitoring their device usage, and only providing them with the platforms they need.
Please monitor your child’s use of social media platforms on their device if you choose to allow them to use a smart device. This includes all apps and games with public and/or private messaging capability. Below are a few useful links from the eSafety Commissioner for you to peruse when considering how you can help your child keep safe from the impact of others on these platforms.
Most importantly, don’t let devices become private and secretive for your child. All young people need to be taught how to use devices ethically, responsibly and legally. This is the responsibility of the parent and/or carer that allows them to have the device. Also enable everyone in your household to talk openly and honestly about their communication with others throughout the day, whether that be face to face or online. Be sure to talk about concerns, share challenges and how to move forward, and keep a clear understanding that as the responsible adult it is your responsibility to monitor the device on a regular basis to ensure that what they encounter on their device aligns to your family values.
Please take responsibility for teaching your child to use technology in an ethical manner, and take responsibility for dealing with situations that occur due to the decision to allow your child to have a mobile device.
Peter Cuskelly
Principal
Deputy News
This week I have had the privilege of attending Year 12 Retreat. We left on Sunday for Alexandra Headlands and spent four days together reflecting on the Year 12’s thirteen-year schooling journey that is almost at an end. The retreat is a combination of outdoor activities and reflection time. It really is golden time to just switch off from school, relax and enjoy each other's company before the busyness of final external exam preparation and graduation begins. It is one of the blessings of my job that I get to spend this time with our students, many of which I have journeyed with over the past thirteen years.
We also had the pleasure of two 2012 Alumni, Janah O’Shea and Lachlan Dignan joining us at retreat to impart some wisdom about their journey since school. They had lots of pearls of wisdom to share about what they miss most from school to helpful hints for renting. They spoke of the value of volunteer work on a resume to answering deeper life questions about making choices about your future pathways and the importance of support networks.
There is nothing better than a few days at the beach and this visit did not disappoint. Spending this time with 29 seniors and 2 other staff members was such a blessing with so many great memories being made.
COLLEGE AWARDS
If you are new to our College family in 2024 you may not be aware of another big occasion we have in Term 4, our College Awards of Excellence Ceremony. Held during the Year 12’s last days here at the College, it celebrates and acknowledges excellence in all four domains of our College; Academia, Spirituality, Sport and Arts. Awards are presented to students in all year levels as we celebrate our rich College life. At the conclusion of the Awards, we farewell our Year 12 students as a P-12 community, and they exit and ring the journey bell. This ceremony will be on 13 November beginning at 9:15am. Parents will be notified via Parent Portal at the commencement of Term 4 if your child is receiving an award. Teachers are finalising Award nomination this week for presentation next term. Each week next term I will feature the awards we present and their criteria.
GRANDPARENT’S DAY
This morning, we gathered with over 300 grandparents of our College community for our annual Grandparent’s Day. It is such a joyous occasion for our grandparents to catch up with friends of their own that are also visiting for the morning but most importantly for them to spend time in our College with their grandchildren.
Biblical Garden update
We have a rose! I am excited to report our Catherine McAuley rose has started to bloom and our Biblical Garden has its first flower.
DATE CLAIMERS – Term 4
30 September – First day of Term 4 (10-week term)
30 September 9am – Class consideration form closes
7 October – King’s Birthday holiday
21 October – 12 November – Year 12 External Exams
13 November – College Awards of Excellence Ceremony
15 November – Year 12 Graduation Mass
22 November – Last day for Year 10 & 11 students
2 December – College Christmas Carols (twilight)
5 December – Early Years Nativity Play (during school day)
6 December – last day of Term 4 (10-week term)
Pupil-Free Days for 2025 are:
Week 0 – 21 January – 24 January (before students commence)
Tuesday 28 January
Tuesday 22 April
Monday 14 July
Friday 1 August
Friday 5 September
Have a wonderful holiday, enjoy the break from lunch boxes and ironing uniforms. We look forward to seeing you all next term to finish out the 2024 academic year.
Cate Brennan
Deputy Principal Religious Education
Grandparents hold a special place in our hearts, often representing a bridge between the past and the present. Their wisdom, love, and life experiences offer us a rich tapestry of stories and lessons that shape our own lives. As students, we often find solace and encouragement in their gentle guidance and unwavering support.
The Bible reminds us of their value, as Proverbs 17:6 says, “Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.” This verse highlights the profound joy and honour that grandparents bring to our lives. Their presence enriches our student’s education, not just through academic support but through the nurturing of character and values. Their prayers, hugs, and unconditional love are a constant reminder of God's grace in our lives.
This year, Pope Francis calls us to recognise how grandparents and the elderly are a value and a gift both for society and our community. Today, we celebrated our Grandparents and grandparent figures through prayer and classroom visits. It was such a delight to see the love and joy between grandparents and their grandchildren.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of our grandparents.
Their love and wisdom are treasures that illuminate our path and enrich our journey.
We are grateful for their patience, guidance, and the countless ways they have supported us.
May you bless them with good health, joy, and peace.
Help us to cherish every moment with them and honour them in all we do.
In Jesus name we pray Amen.
Carey Twidale
Middle Leader Living Your Faith
Year 4 Camp
Year 2 Night Sky Experience
Last Wednesday we came back to school at dusk to extend our learning about the universe we live in. Mr Jenkinson and Mr Janke brought 2 different telescopes to help us see the stars. One telescope we looked through and the other telescope sent pictures to an iPad for us all to see at the same time. We were able to see Alpha Centauri through the telescope, a satellite and even the International Space Station. Will, Kaity, Amelia, Taylor and Evelyn helped us make straw rockets, marshmallow constellations and served our pizza dinner. Miss Price’s moon rocks were sizzling the next day as we made craters in them!
‘I liked making the moon rocks because they started off cold and soggy but then turned hard. I also liked seeing the scorpion constellation!’ Millie
‘At space night looking through the telescope was the best because we could see Alpha Centauri. The we saw the International Space Station fly over and the Southern Cross!’ Oliver
‘It was exciting to watch a satellite move across the sky!’ Maya
‘It was so cool when we looked through the telescope because I saw two stars shining bright and they had orange, purple and blue around them.’ Poppy
‘Making straw rockets and launching them was super-duper fun!’ Tommy
‘I liked making star constellations out of marshmallows because they looked cool and like the shape in the sky.’ EK
‘I’d never seen through a telescope before, so it was really exciting to see the stars.’ Will
‘I liked looking through the telescope to see the two really shiny stars and I saw blue and red flickering around them.’ Ruby
THANKYOU, THANKYOU, THANKYOU to Mr & Mrs Jenkinson, Mr Janke, Mrs Bennie, our senior students, and our teachers for giving their time and expertise to extend our learning in such a fun way!
Year 3 visit Ningana
Our visit to Ningana
On Tuesday the 3 September, Year 3 students and their teachers decided to go to visit the residents at Ningana. Together, we all put in lots of effort towards making cards and bringing presents to brighten their days. We met lovely people and we heard lots of stories about their childhood. We asked things like what school did you go to, where are you from, where did you live, and the most important one was what is a memory from your childhood that makes you happy. Throughout the day, there were smiles, laughs, and even a few kisses. The smiles on their faces were beautiful. There was even one lady who had been a teacher at our school for thirty-one years. We heard from many residents that the cane was only given to boys and not the girls! After a couple of hours of fun and kindness, we said goodbye and went back to school. From this experience, I learnt that the love that we can share is more important than presents and acts of kindness can change the world.
By Maddie Meacle-Lyell
Our visit to Ningana
On Tuesday the 3 September, year 3 visited Ningana. There we met the lovely Ningana residents. There was a heartwarming person who was named Patricia. My heart was full of sadness and thoughtfulness when Leo and I gave her the gifts because she cried. She cried because she rarely gets to see her children. It was very sad when she told us that her father had gone to war and had never returned. It was lovely when she said she loved horses and when she said her horse would put it’s soft neck around her head. Patricia mentioned the teachers were very mean and some were very nice. Patricia said to me that she said to her parents I want to marry a farmer, and she did. Proudly, Patricia said if you are down in the dumps, just put your nose in a rose and you will be a bright spark.
By Clare O’Donnell
Under 8’s Day
Lost Property in the Pavilion
Please collect ASAP. These items will be donated to St Vincent De Paul if not collected.
Kristen Bennie
We have made it to the conclusion of yet another term. The year is flying by at a great rate. Term 3 often presents issues around health and fatigue in the cooler months of the year. This was certainly the case this time around but now that this window has closed, I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday break and that students and staff return to Term 4 with a spring in their step.
Year 8 Camp – Bunya Mountains and surrounds
I was very fortunate to be involved in the Year 8 camp this year. Organised by Mrs Patterson, the camp explored a range of topics from environmental awareness, local history, and the indigenous past and present associated with the Bunya Mountains and the country surrounding. This camp was an experiential learning experience and allowed our students to be immersed in their learning while away from the classroom. Well done to the Year 8 students for their engagement in the various activities, and well done to Mrs Patterson for organising a great experience for our students.
Enrolment - Middle Years 
Just an update on Middle Years enrolments - we have limited spaces available, especially for the Year 7 cohort of 2025, and we are conducting interviews and offering places at this time. If you are interested in enrolment for one of your children or know people who are, please ensure the online application form is submitted as soon a spossible. Failure to do so may result in places being finalised and families missing out.
Stay safe online these holidays
Holiday periods bring about a spike in online use from teenagers. With that unfortunately comes an increased risk of exposure to unsavoury content, poor online habits, and negative commentary from people – known and unknown. Parents, please do not be naïve around this topic. There are countless negative stories surrounding young people and online issues. Please do not provide an opportunity for your child to be the next victim or statistic in a grown area of concern. With RUOK? Day falling this Thursday, please have conversations to your children about their online use and support them through issues that may be festering behind the scenes. There are plenty of websites offering parental advice to better support families navigating this path. The Carly Ryan Foundation is one that has a number of great resources for parents to not only become more aware of the various platforms available online, but each also identifies the potential issues with each so that parents can better support their children.
Parents – Please review these documents and familiarise yourself with the platforms that your child could be using. Please note that despite the advertised platform age rating, there is much advice suggesting these are grossly inadequate and due to the level of emotional intelligence possessed by children in their teenage years. Many early teenagers (and some adults for that matter) are not ready for the social responsibilities that come with social media platforms and struggle with behaving appropriately in an online forum.
Kind regards,
Craig Cullen
Assistant Principal Middle Years
Year 6 - Prime Minister's Spelling Bee
Over the past few weeks, the Year 6 students participated in the Prime Minister's Spelling Bee. The Spelling Bee allowed students to compete in a fun online format where they aimed for accuracy, beating the clock and finishing ahead of their fellow students right across Australia. Students may not have been familiar with all the words they are asked to spell. However, being exposed to new words and their definitions, helped expand their vocabularies. This competition was held by Kids News and three of our Year 6 students were successful in advancing to the State Final. While they missed out on the National Final, we are very proud of how well they did. Well done to Lyjah King-Togia, Olivia Nolan and Charles Sullivan for their success and to all of Year 6 who had a go and tried their best.
Melinda Crow and Leah McDuff
Middle Years Teachers
Celebrating a Successful Term 3
Congratulations to everyone on a fantastic Term 3! Our students have been actively involved in a wide range of activities, including excursions, SET Plans, Academic Care interviews, Grandparents Day Mass, Retreats, the Athletics Carnival, Leadership voting, Book Week, Science Week, and numerous sporting competitions.
Maximizing School Opportunities
We encourage all students to participate in as many activities and opportunities as possible to make the most of their schooling experience. Engaging in these events helps students grow academically, socially, and personally.
Parent-Teacher Partnership
We remind parents that our teachers are always ready to discuss your child’s progress towards their goals. Feel free to contact the College at any time to speak with or meet your child’s teachers. Your involvement is crucial in supporting your child’s educational journey.
Finishing the Term Strong
As we approach the end of the term, we encourage students to maintain a balanced approach to their studies. For our Year 12 students preparing for upcoming exams, it’s essential to exercise, eat well, and get plenty of sleep.
Year 12 Academic Interviews
It’s been wonderful to see our Year 12 students working diligently across all areas of the College. Reviewing their academic progress has been affirming, with many students already receiving early entry offers to their chosen university courses. Their hard work and dedication are truly commendable.
Year 12 Retreat/Camp
Engaging with the Year 12s during their retreat has been a pleasure. The retreat activities were designed to help students overcome challenges and prepare for life after school. We hope they leave with great memories, renewed friendships, and a sense of readiness for the future.
Looking Ahead to Term 4
While the Year 12s enjoy their retreat, the rest of the College is gearing up for Term 4. This term is filled with opportunities for success. Use the holidays wisely to set goals, plan your approach, and seek support if needed. Whether aiming for academic excellence, exploring new hobbies, or contributing to our College community, Term 4 is your chance to shine brightly.
Mr Rodney Spain
Assistant Principal Senior Years
Year 10 Micro-Skills Week
Week 10 is a busy week for Year 10 students, who have been undertaking micro skills training and valuable work-related skill development. On Monday and Tuesday, 25 students participated in a First Aid and Manual Handling course delivered by registered training providers, Downs Group Training. The students developed skills in First Aid and CPR, as well as Manual Handling, where they learned the safe handling of people and objects with minimal personal risk to themselves, others, and the working environment.
On Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 15 students attended the Espresso Coffee Machine course delivered by Aroura Training. These students covered four units: use of hygienic practices for food safety, prepare and serve espresso coffee, process financial transactions, and provide service to customers. These units were both theoretical and practical, providing students with skills and training to work in the hospitality industry.
These courses are valuable for students looking forward to a career and working life, equipping them with skills that future employers may seek from school leavers. Additionally, students who attend these courses can earn up to 4 QCE points, which will contribute to their senior schooling in 2025 and 2026.
Key Dates for 2024
11-13 September - Yr 10 Espresso Machine Course
17 October - Yr 12 SBA/Traineeship Employer thank you lunch
December (TBC) Yr 9 QCAA Portal and USI number applications
After School & Holiday Work
A local Hairdresser is seeking a student to work after school and on holidays. If you are interested, please contact Mrs Boland or Mr Garside for details.
Plumbing Apprenticeship 2025
A local plumber is offering a year 12 school leaver a full-time apprenticeship in plumbing. If you are interested in this position, please contact Mrs Boland or Mr Garside for details.
Apprentice Maintenance Engineer 2025
Helismart is offering a Helicopter Maintenance Engineer apprenticeship in 2025. Please see flyer for more information.
QBuild Apprenticeships 2025
QBuild are offering multiple apprenticeships for 2025, please see flyer for more information.
NRG Services Apprenticeships 2025
NRG Services are offering an Electrician and Refrigeration Mechanic apprenticeships
for 2025, please see flyer for more information.
Apprenticeship/Trainee Shell QGC
Applications are open with Shell QGC for their apprentice and trainee program in Mechanical, Electrical, Operations & Civil. Please click on the link below for more information. Applications close on 29 September. Shell's QGC Business - Apprentices & Traineeships - Mechanical, Electrical, Operations & Civil
Dean Garside
Careers Development Practitioner
OLSCC Day Athletics
EY Ball Games
1st Nolan, 2nd MacKillop, 3rd Rice, 4th McAuley
Staff / Captains Relay
1st McAuley, 2nd MacKillop, 3rd Rice, 4th Nolan
MY Relay
1st Rice, 2nd McAuley, 3rd MacKillop, 4th Nolan
SY Relay
1st McAuley, 2nd Rice, 3rd Nolan, 4th MacKillop
All Age Relay
1st Nolan, 2nd Rice, 3rd McAuley, 4th MacKillop
Gillespie Gift
1st Charles Sullivan, 2nd Mason Giesel, 3rd Tallas Turner
Tresillian Gift
1st Chloe Manteit, 2nd Angel Ncube, 3rd Chrel Doria
Points
Nolan 215
Rice 210
MacKillop 195
McAuley 185
Darling Downs 2025 Triathlon Trials
Any students who would like to attend the Darling Downs Triathlon Trials for 2025 please see Mr Lincoln for more information. Students must be 13-18 years of age.
Darling Downs Aquathlon Trials
Any Boys or Girls turning 11 or 12 in 2025 (Born 2014 or 2013) who would like to participate in the Darling Downs Aquathlon Trials please see Mr Lincoln for more information. An Aquathlon consists of a 1km run, 200m swim, followed by another 1km run. These trials will be held at the Dalby Aquatic Centre on Friday 25 October. Students must be able to swim the 200m without stopping.
QCIS Rugby Sevens
Thanks to Mr Fraser, Mr Setch, Mr Storey, Mr Gillespie, Mr Garside and past students Yolande Gordon and Abby Marshall for attending the QCIS Carnival last Friday at Downlands. Results were as follows from the six participating schools.
|
13 Boys |
4th |
|
13 Girls |
5th |
|
15 Boys |
4th |
|
15 Girls |
3rd |
|
18 Boys |
2nd |
Cricket
Any boys born between 2009-2011 who would like to attend Darling Downs Under 15 Cricket Trials need to see Mr Lincoln for more information. Trials will be held early next term.
Tim Lincoln
Middle Leader Sport
