8 - 14 October - State Athletics Championships

13 October - Swans Primary All Schools Touch Football Carnival

13 October - CECP - Dress Rehearsal

14 October - CECP - Performing Arts Musical

14 October - Shooting Stars begins for Prep 2025

14 October - SW Rugby 7's U13 Boys (Highfields)

16 October - Wicked Excursion

18 October - Year 3 Socktober

18 - 20 October - QLD Junior Schools Cup Volleyball Years 7-8

21 October - 12 November - Year 12 External Exams

21 October - SW Rugby 7's U13 Boys (Highfields)

22 October - Year 3 Moo Baa Munch Excursion

23 October - Year 2 Farm Excursion

24 October - Year 10 Ag UQ Visit

25 October - Day for Daniel (TBC)

25 October - Parish Deb Ball

25 October - World Teachers Day

25 October - DD Aquathlon Trials

As our last term for the year begins, we take the opportunity to reflect on our learnings so far throughout 2024, and promptly set aspirational yet achievable targets to ensure that we finish our year well. Around the world we hear the term ‘wellbeing’ used far too often with many misleading definitions regarding what “wellbeing”, “happiness” or “work-life balance” actually means. And this is very hard to define, because quite simply, many of these terms have vastly different meanings to different people depending on their own individual circumstances. Each of these aspects of life require focus, effort and achievement in order to be successful. 

And the end of year and wellbeing have a lot to do with each other. I spoke to the Year 12 students at their formal about “turning up” way back in late May, though not just “turning up”, though rather “turning up – early and prepared”. There is nothing worse for work-life balance, happiness or wellbeing than getting to January and realising that you have impacted your future trajectory through a lack of effort, persistence and resilience in the last quarter of the year prior. I have seen this happen far too often to people in all walks, and in all stages, of life. I have seen Year 12 graduates lost without a cause when they get an early offer to uni, only to fail external assessments due to lack of effort. I’ve seen professionals that finish poorly that then never get considered for the next promotion, students miss school for the last few weeks of school meaning they miss extra-curricular activities for half of the next year, and people not invest in important relationships which have ongoing impacts for many years to come. Turning up and finishing well are two common traits of people who are well, happy and balanced.

A lot of wellbeing, happiness and work-life balance comes from doing your best. From putting in the effort to achieve results better than other people expected. From getting up early to do one thing better by 1% every day. Staying up an extra hour one night to get 10 things off your to-do list that have been causing you anxiety for weeks. Closing your socials and making a phone call to a friend you haven’t had a good chat with for quite a while, or putting down the controller to share a lovingly prepared meal around the kitchen table with family and friends. 

For everyone in our community, please consider how you are going to finish the year well and keep turning up for whatever is important for you. If you need a hand, pick up a copy of Atomic Habits by James Clear, or listen to any associated podcasts, audiobooks or youtube clips. It’s a great resource for teens, university students, parents, whole families and even retirees!

2025 College Staff

As mentioned on Parent Portal earlier in the week, below is a draft of the 2025 Staff List for OLSCC. This includes many new staff, and doesn’t include some of our current staff who are heading in a different direction for 2025. This list will gradually be updated as positions are filled over the coming weeks. 

Despite some discussions in the community regarding our staffing for next year, I would like to ensure our community that OLSCC is by no means suffering from the staffing shortage. All of our positions for 2024 are currently filled and we don’t have any staff that are above the recommended teaching load in the Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA). Any suggestion that we are understaffed is completely false. We work hard to provide the best teachers for your children, and I am very proud of the staff that enter our classrooms every day. 

There is some confusion also regarding Hybrid Learning opportunities at the College. Hybrid Learning for senior subjects such as Specialist Maths, Literature, Modern History, Physics, and Chemistry is a combination of face-to-face learning, live lessons online, and the completion of online coursework which is highly structured and continuously monitored by both their online teacher and teachers at OLSCC. The fact of the matter is that we strive to provide the best possible teachers for our students. In some cases, the standard we can provide through Hybrid Learning is considerably better than what we can recruit for face-to-face learning locally. While we could staff the classes in face-to-face lessons, experience tells us that better learning outcomes are achieved through Hybrid Learning – especially for the types of subjects we offer these options for. We continue to recruit for face-to-face teachers at our College, such as the current advertisements for Visual Arts, Languages, and Senior Science (Physics, Chemistry, Engineering). However, we will always prioritise our students by providing the highest standard of teaching and learning, which may be Hybrid Learning. 2023 graduate Joshua Nimmo, currently studying Medicine specialising in Surgery at JCU Townsville, will attest to how far ahead of his peers he is because of his approach to learning, including both his face-to-face and hybrid learning throughout his senior courses at OLSCC.

I would like to announce a few changes to our staff for the start of 2025, and in some cases earlier:

Mrs Kathy Morgan: Rumour has it that Mrs Morgan has been teaching Prep for so long that no-one can actually remember when she started. Some say her classroom is like Mr Magorium’s Wonder Emporium and she is over 243 years old. But those who can remember, remember what an inspirational teacher she has been at OLSCC in all her years here in Prep Red and Year 6, as well as the Middle Leader Primary / Early Years for many years. We wish Mrs Morgan, and her husband Damien (who beat her to it by a few years) all the best in their well-earned retirement and future adventures!

Mrs Andrea Gormley: Mrs Gormley has made the decision to relocate to the coast and catch some salty air in the mornings, as well as some further travel to discover more rural and remote parts of the world. Mrs Gormley has done many roles at OLSCC from teaching Prep and Year 1 to Assistant Principal Religious Education to Middle Leader Special Projects and more recently Middle Leader Student Services. There will rarely be a student that graduates from OLSCC without being impacted by the work of Mrs Gormley – enjoy the coast and the walks on the beach!

Mrs Geraldine Priebbenow: Mrs Priebbenow has been teaching in upper primary at OLSCC for 9 years now and is currently on St Helena island for her final penance. She has been an amazing role model for many students here, though is now moving to the farm where she can spend more time with her husband, and milking cows. Due to the distance involved, Mrs P will be relocating to St Saviour’s Primary School in Toowoomba commencing in 2025.

Mrs Rebecca Martin: Mrs Martin has decided to hang up her chalk for a little while and focus on her family and the family business, while still visiting from time to time for relief. Mrs Martin teaches everything and anything at OLSCC – extremely well - and her kind disposition underpins what makes her such a special teacher with an emphasis on growing great people. We thank Mrs Martin for her willingness and ability to do what needs to be done to best advantage our students. If you’ve ever received a Head, Heart, Hands package, it is likely Mrs Martin had something to do with this as well!

Mr David de Costa Silva: Mr de Costa Silva has been a highly valued staff member at OLSCC for the past 2 years in the Arts department. He has designed and painted backdrops for musicals, taught many inspiring lessons, showcased some phenomenal artistic talents and skills, and just last week put much of this on show in the College Art Show. We have many students who connect strongly to the Arts, and the loss of such a genuine artist from our community will be felt. We wish David all the best as he relocates to the coast!

Mr Steve Gillespie: Mr Gillespie is taking a year’s leave to try to understand what he will do with himself if he ever retires. I am very confident that we will see Mr G around the traps quite a bit as he continues working in the rugby league program and filling in for relief.

Mr Nathan Pretorius: Nathan has been our wonderful Facilities Coordinator for the past few years and has overseen many developments at the College in his time here. On Friday he finished at OLSCC to take up a position in Ayr in the Agriculture sector. Our College would simply not be the same without Nathan’s input and impact, and it’s a great shame he wasn’t able to make the first batch of Montepulciano from the College Vineyard before he left. All the best Nathan!

While it will be with great sadness that we see these wonderful contributors to our College depart, we also experience the joy of welcoming new people into our community. We will produce some profiles for the community to get to know our new people better in coming weeks, however below is a brief introduction.

Miss Emma Quinlan: Miss Quinlan has been teaching at St Joseph’s School in Chinchilla with Mrs Hobson for the past 5 years and is excited to teach Year 6 at OLSCC next year! Miss Quinlan is a passionate educator with much experience in our Diocesan Approach to Reading, and will be a great addition to our team.

Miss Megan Fleming: Miss Fleming comes to us from Jandowae State School where she is currently teaching Prep, and prior to that taught at Denison State School in Emerald where she taught mostly Year 2. Miss Fleming demonstrated a great passion for curriculum in her interview and we look forward to her expertise in Year 4 next year.

Miss Becky Gillan: Some may recognise Miss Gillan from her time as a preservice teacher here in the past, or her current position as a full-time relief teacher across the early and middle years. Miss Gillan is an excellent educator that we are excited to welcome to Year 2 next year.

Mr Col Anderton: Mr Anderton has also been working at the College this semester as a full-time relief teacher and has proven a wonderful addition to our staff. Next year Mr Anderton will transition to a full-time role in HPE and Science in the Middle and Senior Years and brings a wealth of experience with him.

Mrs Terri Fazakerley: Mrs Fazakerley will be starting as our new receptionist in the next 2 weeks. She has over 20 years experience in administration and although she’s from NSW, I am sure she will fit right in as the new face of the College in reception.

Staff Vacancies

As outlined on the staff list, there are still a few opportunities being advertised that we are anticipating to fill in coming weeks. There are also some positions that will become available throughout the term as existing staff transition to new schools for 2025. If you have friends that are interested in working at OLSCC, please direct them to Seek where we advertise all our vacancies.

Saints Race Day

I would like to offer a very sincere and heartfelt thanks to Kaitlin Machin and Kate Cullen for their enormous effort and dedication in delivering the Saints Race Day in the middle weekend of the holidays. Even though I wasn’t able to attend the event, I have only heard wonderful feedback. Having Brooke Hanson OAM as the Master of Ceremonies for the day, an amazing showing for Fashions of the Field, lots of awesome prizes for raffles and auctions, as well as a beautiful marquee and lawn area - the day was a recipe for success. Thank you to everyone who supported this amazing day through their sponsorship, giving of prizes, contribution to the setup or cleanup, or by attending the day and having a great time! The committee has a new focus to raise funds for the installation of a digital sign for the front of the College and this event has given a great start to the effort. 

Outside of School Hours Care + Vacation Care

As communicated at the end of last term – there are some great programs and activities being provided for our students enrolled in OSHC and Vacation Care. Below are a few of the photos from recent vacation care where the kids had an absolute ball! Please consider giving this a go by enrolling your child and have them attend a session.

Tuckshop

Last night I sat and ordered my tuckshop treat for Friday (because I need it!) and I must say that there are some great options available for both myself and my kids, even though one of my kids is coeliac! The prices are very reasonable, there is plenty of variety, dietary requirements are listed and options are available, and its all managed by the flexischools app so no bags and coins! The tuckshop continues to operate from Wednesday to Friday each week, so if its been a while since you’ve forgot to go shopping for kids lunches, please hop on the flexischools app and check it out! Great job, Toni and Jo!

Thomas Jack Park Precinct

Throughout this year, various members of the OLSCC community including myself, staff, parents, senior students and representatives from each year level from Year 4 to Year 12, have been involved with FourFold Studios and Western Downs Regional Council (WDRC) regarding the development of the Dalby Cultural Centre. Throughout the year the decision was made to transition this simple project into a more complex one which evolved into the Thomas Jack Park Precinct. The journey has been a wonderful learning for all involved and I am especially proud of the contribution that our students and wider community are having on this once in a lifetime opportunity for our town. 

If you would like to know more about the project and/or would like to have your say about this development can offer our community, please do so at https://haveyoursay.wdrc.qld.gov.au/tjpp.

School Transport Infrastructure Program (STIP)

Earlier this year OLSCC collaborated with WDRC to apply for funding to enhance the safety and usability of Cooper Street, between OLSCC and PCYC. We were recently notified that this application was successful and we will continue working with WDRC as we roll out this project. Over the long term between STIP and WDRC funding, it is planned for the road to be curbed and channelled, marked for parking, and include pedestrian refuges on both sides of the road near to the Ag Shed / Northern end of Netball Courts. A new footpath will also be constructed on the OLSCC side of Cooper Street from Nicholson Street down past the Ag Shed. There will also be considerable other works such as stormwater as part of the project. 

The inception of this safety initiative started way back in 2018 with Snr Constable Mark Woitowitz advocating strongly for many years for these improvements. A huge thanks to Mark, as well as Susie and Breanna from WDRC for keeping the momentum rolling and creating an opportunity to improve these facilities.

Peter Cuskelly

Principal

And so begins the final term of the year, and what a great term it is. So much hard work goes into every classroom in our College each year to set routines and ensure growth and progress for our learners. In Term 4, we get to celebrate all that hard work as students finalise this year’s learning. For our Year 12 students it is the culmination of 13 years of education and we look forward to celebrations that mark this. 

COLLEGE STUDENT LEADERS 2025

Last term we announced our College Prefect group for 2025.

• College Captains – Braithen Crothers and Chloe Manteit
• College Prefects – Karlie Falvey, Jack Hall, Joab Jocson and Taylor Marshall

We now move to appoint our College House Leaders for 2025. To be considered for one of these positions students must be in Year 10 or 11 currently. They write a letter of application, undertake an interview with members of the College Leadership Team and present a speech to students in Year 5-12. Students in Year 5-12 are then given the opportunity to vote to show support for their House Leader. From this process students are appointed to the House Leader position. House Leaders for 2025 will be announced at our next Whole College Assembly on Friday 18 October at 9:00am in the MPC, families are welcome to join us for this announcement. House Leaders will commence in these positions this term and continue in these positions until Term 4 2025.

SAFETY OF STUDENTS AT PICK UP

As the summer storm season begins, we have commenced a new process at the College to ensure the safety of our staff and students at pick up time at the end of the school day. We enacted this process on Tuesday and Wednesday this week. We all know by ‘Murphy’s Law’ that these rain events and storms seem to always hit right at 3:10pm, at pick up time, when we are trying to depart our 650 (approx.) students. To ensure the safety of all when departing the school day on occasions when BOM issues a ‘severe thunderstorm warning’ – involving lightning, storms and wild weather – we will send a text message to all families and staff notifying them that we will not be using Cooper Street as a pickup location. Please note this is to ensure the safety of our students and staff, who would need to cross this open area with large metal structures. We will direct students to the area for pick up in front of the Prep classrooms. On these occasions we do not need parents to contact students or the office to confirm these plans, we will communicate this process directly with our students. We will maintain supervision until all students are collected to ensure there is adequate time for adjustments to be made by parents for pickup. We will not stop students who are travelling on foot or by bike from leaving the college but be aware that in the event of extreme storm activity, we will delay students leaving the campus or classrooms until it is safe. Parents should talk to their children (of all ages) about sensible behaviour in storms to ensure personal safety and what alternate arrangements are in place for your family in the event of storms and rains at school departure time.  

CLASS LISTS

Class allocations for the year ahead will be communicated to the students in advance of ‘Up Day’ each year. They will be released in Week 5 via Parent Portal and displayed at the College for students. Class lists are final on publication to students and parents. There will be no changes to the Year 9-11 class lists from 2024. This decision has been made as Year 9 lists were changed mid-year due to timetable restructure and as students move into Year 11 and Year 12 their core class is only used for a Year Level Connect lesson each week. 

‘Up Day’ will be held on Wednesday 4 December for Year 1-10 2025 students. This is the day where all students enrolled for the following year spend time in their future classes. 

This practice means that:

• Students will experience a day in their future class, with future teacher/s;
• Students will engage in transitional activities that include orientation of new features, structures, areas and facilities;
• Students begin to build relationships with their teacher/s for following year;
• Students will know which other students will be in their class; and
• Parents and carers will have time to talk positively to their children about the class experiences they may have the following year.

Our process for allocating and releasing class lists is explained on our College Website – Enrolment & Back to School – Class Allocation.

COLLEGE AWARDS – what are they?

If you are new to our College family in 2024 you may not be aware of a 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. As part of the Awards Ceremony, 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 have been notified via Parent Portal at the commencement of Term 4 if your child is receiving an award. If your child is listed in an Activity called Awards of Excellence 2024 this means they are receiving an award at this ceremony.

Details for each of these awards can be found on our College Website – About Us – College Awards of Excellence.

DATE CLAIMERS – Term 4

18 October – Year 12 final formal day of school

18 October – 2025 House Leaders announced at Whole College Assembly

21 October – 12 November – Year 12 External Exams

13 November – College Awards of Excellence Ceremony

15 November – Year 12 Graduation Mass

22 November – Year 11 and Year 10 final day of school

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)

Cate Brennan

Deputy Principal Religious Education

The 10th of October is World Mental Health Day and In Queensland we celebrate Mental Health Week from the 5 – 13 October.

The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.

Although this date has passed, we must never forget how to sustain our good mental health by using the teachings and words of Jesus. In the world we find ourselves in we all know people who grapple with stress, anxiety, and feelings of despondency— or perhaps we are familiar with them ourselves. Within our faith communities there’s a growing recognition of the necessity to address these issues with compassion and empathy. I firmly believe that Christ can meet us in these moments of uncertainty, offering hope, peace and joy amidst our struggles.

In Christianity, hope is a big deal, and looking at Jesus’ perspective on mental health can give comfort and guidance to those who are struggling.

Jesus taught a lot about love and compassion for everyone, no matter what they were going through. He showed this love by helping all sorts of people, including those who were sick or feeling low. Instead of pushing them away or judging them, He showed care, healed them, and made them feel valued. His actions – like being kind, forgiving and even performing miracles – show how much He cared about people’s wellbeing.

Christianity teaches that every person is important and deserves respect, no matter what they’re dealing with mentally. It’s about treating everyone with dignity, even if they’re struggling with mental health. Rather than blaming someone for being sick or thinking they lack faith, Christians are encouraged to understand that mental health issues are complex. They can come from many things, such as biology, thoughts and life experiences. By seeing the whole picture, Christians can offer support and understanding without making people feel bad.

As followers of Jesus, Christians are supposed to act like Him, showing love and care to everyone, including those dealing with mental health problems. This means creating communities where people feel safe to talk about their struggles without fear. It also means pushing for better understanding and support for mental health in society.

A prayer for this Mental Health Week:

O God, you are the shepherd of our souls:
in all that we do, help us to move with you,
to respond to the ways you guide us,
and to rest in you when we are brought low,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. 
Amen

Carey Twidale

Middle Leader Living Your Faith

College Expectations
The College sets high expectations. These are not optional buy-ins, but instead the standard we expect to see all day, every day, every week, every term. Below is some information to remind students and families of some of these standards.   

Uniform
The College uniform plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive environment and eliminating the distractions associated with attire, allowing everyone to focus on what really matters – learning and collaboration. Uniforms promote equality and create a sense of team. Therefore, it is disappointing that since the commencement of this term many staff members, including myself and Mr Cuskelly, have seen the need to address large numbers of uniform issues with students. This ranges from haircuts to jewellery, and general poor uniform habits.

Let me be clear, the uniform is not the sort of thing where near enough is good enough. We have made our expectations clear throughout the year in classes, at sector and whole college assemblies, and it is clearly spelled out in the student diary. We expect that students get it right first time, every time. In the event there are extenuating circumstances that prevent a student from being in the correct uniform, then we expect written communication from a parent or caregiver notifying the College. Students simply stating “they forgot” is a poor excuse and will not be accepted.   

Below is a reminder of the expectations of the uniform expectations:

The College uniform is compulsory and a sign of unity and belonging for students. Therefore, it must be worn in its entirety with respect and pride. As an ambassador for self, family and College, students are expected to be in complete uniform, neat, and well-groomed in appearance and well-behaved always.

 Important Notes:

• Students dressed inappropriately will be required to rectify their presentation at school or return home to do so.
• Middle Years students wear sports uniform on the designated days of their Year level (2 days). The remaining three days are formal uniform days.
• Students will be directed to remove non-compliant jewellery.
• The College hat must always be worn when outdoors eg: PE, on the oval, excursions, and lunch times.

If your child has experienced a growth spurt or some of their uniform is old and in need of replacement, here are the uniform shop hours:

In the event students are struggling to maintain their uniform standard (via individual choice or subconsciously), or they need more support from staff in ensuring they have the correct uniform on all day/every day, there are some uniform reminder cards that will be issued to assist them. The cards are presented to each teacher throughout the day so that they can provide feedback on presentation and uniform standards. They serve as a great affirmation tool and allow students to recognise that with concerted effort, they can achieve and uphold the uniform expectations.  

Unless otherwise directed, the expectations are that the formal uniform be worn for whole College liturgies, gatherings, formal events, and specific College excursions. If there are any doubts concerning uniform requirements students/parents/guardians should seek guidance from myself. In all matters of uniform and grooming, the College reserves the right to ask students to change or adjust aspects of dress and grooming.

Mobile Phones, Smart watches and earphones
At the College, we strive to grow great people. Great people communicate, socialise and work effectively with and without digital devices. We teach students digital citizenship skills so that they can be successful adults in whatever field they choose.

Unfortunately, we see the evidence of digital addiction and distraction on a daily basis and significant time of students, staff and leadership is spent dealing with incidents that occur through the use of smart devices and social media platforms and online game platforms outside of school time. If parents need advice or structures to help establish conversations regarding devices in the home or need to re-establish boundaries for appropriate use in the home, please consider accessing the resources provided via the Happy Families website to which we have a subscription. This site is linked to Dr Justin Coulson, who we have had present at the College now on multiple occasions. This is a great resource for families:

In regard to devices at schools, the College’s position is that:

• Mobiles are not to be seen/visible during the school day.
• Laptops are the device for class. Mobiles are NOT to be used as a device for classes.
• Students can keep mobile phones in lockers, in bags, in laptop satchels but they are not to be out.
• Security is essential but is to be self-managed by the student.
• The use of mobile phones/earphones and music streaming apps during learning or class time is not permitted.
• Mobile phones and smart watches are prohibited from examinations.
• Students are to leave all smart devices with the class teacher when leaving the room for any reason.

Exceptions:

• Students who need exemptions for medical reasons or other needs can register that with the College Office and will receive an exemption card to attach to their mobile or have with them. Students will only be able to use the mobile for the medical reason.

Whilst students may use phones and accessories on their journey to and from school, once they arrive on College grounds, they are not to be seen. If a student’s teacher specifically directs use for a class curriculum activity, such as videoing or photographing performance(s) or products, that is approved under teacher direction during this time.

Please note smartwatches must be used as a watch only. Parents can communicate with students using their College email or through the College Office if it is time sensitive. Students will not have access to their email at all times of the day as they will be focused on their learning.

Friends of Iona – Leadership Passport Opportunity

I am just reaching out regarding an opportunity that might support students in completing their current level of the Leadership Passport. Giving back to the community and serving others is an important part of the Leader Passport journey and this is a great opportunity to demonstrate that. Below is some information that may interest your child:

If your child is interested in this opportunity, please have them reach out to me either via email or in person at the office.

Kind regards, 

Craig Cullen

Assistant Principal Middle Years

Welcome Back to Term 4!

It was good to welcome everyone back from the break last week. Students are in high spirits as we embark on the final term of the school year.

Term 4 is a special time in our calendar. It's a time when we reflect on the progress we've made, celebrate our successes, and set our sights on the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. It's a time for students to consolidate their knowledge, for teachers to inspire and motivate, and for parents and guardians to continue their invaluable support. Together, we will make these final weeks of the school year truly memorable.

As we navigate this final term together, let us remember the importance of collaboration, resilience, and gratitude. Let us celebrate the journey we have undertaken and look forward with optimism to the future.

I am confident that Term 4 will be filled with many achievements and memorable moments. Together, we will finish this school year on a high note and send our students off into the world, prepared to make a positive impact.

There are many events and opportunities for students in Term 4. Please stay up to date with our correspondence, and encourage your child to be involved in as many opportunities and activities as possible. As a timely reminder we would like to highlight to all families that if your contact details registered with the College need to be updated, please contact the Office or via your Sentral Parent Portal.

Brief overview of some key Term 4 events:

• Assessments for all students and in particular Yr 12 students sitting their External Exams for their General subjects
• Graduation
• Awards Ceremony. All are welcome and invited.
• Term 4 is the beginning of Unit 3 for many of our Year 11 students. This means that for General subjects, student assessment is now summative and contributes to ATAR calculations (if the student is ATAR eligible).

Term 4 is certainly shaping to be another full and exciting term, with many opportunities.

Prepare your 2025 approach to study

While Term 4 may seem like the perfect time to wind down or to coast through to the end. It is actually the perfect time to trial new approaches and experiment with your study techniques.

So, by getting these good habits started in Term 4, you are building your knowledge and skills to avoid Christmas holiday learning loss and reduce the stress of starting in Term 1.

One of the best things you can start exploring is how to create effective study notes for some of your subjects.

Study notes help you create a strong foundation in your knowledge! From many years of teaching, I’ve noticed that students with effective study notes are more confident and capable. 

Here are some helpful websites for tips and tricks on developing good study notes. 

• A Simple Guide to Study Notes - Oxford Learning
• 20 eye-catching ideas for your study notes | Canva

Apps for creating study notes: 

• Quizlet: Online flashcard maker and flashcard app | Quizlet
• Scribzee: SCRIBZEE, the free app that revolutionizes your handwritten notes

Consolidate Your Learning Gaps

The first thing here is to get out your assessment results for every subject you’ll be continuing in some form into next year — subjects like Religion, English, Maths, and Science. 

Any mistakes you’ve made in these assessments and exams are a clear indication of the gaps and weak areas you currently have. Unless you try to fix them, they’re only going to get a lot worse and cause you difficulty in the years to come. 

Allocate one afternoon per week after school for one subject. For example:

• Monday = Maths
• Tuesday = English
• Wednesday = Science

Spend 1 hour working on reviewing these mistakes and finding similar questions you can work on until you’re confident you’re getting them correct consistently. This will build your confidence in remembering the content!

Year 9 to 11 Exam Timetables

On Friday all Term 4 Exam Timetables were published to students and parents via our Sentral for Parents Portal and the student's Sentral portal. Exam timetables are also available from our college website here, Our Lady of the Southern Cross College, Dalby

It is important to note that assessment adjustments for family holidays and other events are not aligned within the QCAA guidelines across all year levels, conversations must be had with senior leadership should holidays be taken when any assessment is due.

If you have any questions about assessment, please contact your child's classroom teacher or the relevant Middle Leader Curriculum.

Our Lady of the Southern Cross College is responsible for gathering evidence of student achievement on or before the due date for internal assessment instruments. All students have electronic access to their assessment, and it is their responsibility to adhere to these due dates. Students are responsible for planning and managing their time to meet the due dates. Students and parents can contact teachers and Curriculum Leaders via phone or email. Teachers are not able to grant extensions directly with students and parents/carers.

Our Lady of the Southern Cross College is required to adhere to QCAA policies about due dates accepting assignments only on or before the due date unless an extension through AARA processes has been approved.  For example, a student who is absent due to family holidays will not be granted an extension for an assignment as this doesn’t meet the AARA guidelines set by QCAA. Any adjustments requested must be supported by medical or professional documentation.

Year 11 2025 Subject Selections

Last Wednesday our Year 10 students engaged with senior subject teachers to ask questions about the subjects on offer to them in 2025. There was great discussion with students getting great opportunities to discuss subjects that align with great future pathways and strong academic outcomes.

A reminder all subject selections need to be submitted by 9am Monday, 14 October 2024.

Year 12 Final Weeks

Last Wednesday, I spoke specifically to our senior students and acknowledged that the year is coming to an end but reminded them that this does not mean that we lose focus and encouraged them to maintain momentum with their studies until the very end. I specifically spoke about the power of reflection. Reflection means that you honestly think about and evaluate your past performance. Reflection provides an opportunity to alter or change your course of action, your approach, or your habits. It is a change to start fresh and re-focus.

As our Year 12 students enter the final stretch and undertake their focused preparations in their classes for External Exams, or are working on that last piece of assessment, I encourage them to reflect. For instance, reflect on their mock exam results and use that practice run to their advantage to guide their preparation over the coming weeks. Additionally, reflect on teachers’ feedback and advice they have received to ensure that their final assessment is of a high standard.

This is a time when students need to draw upon all the information, they have received about time management strategies, study schedules, organisation and study techniques. Equally, it is important that students look after their wellbeing during this time. Balance, quality sleep, exercise and a good diet are also key to achieving success. In the final race to the finish line, the College sincerely wishes Year 12 all the best for their exams and final assessment.

Year 12 External Examinations

All year 12’s have received information from the College and QCAA about the upcoming External Examinations.

The external assessment timetable for 2024 is located here.

QCAA external assessment timetable 2024

QCAA has an excellent resource on the myQCE website called the “External Assessment Guide for students”.   This is found on the website External assessment | myQCE (qcaa.qld.edu.au)

How can I prepare?

Senior syllabuses

General senior syllabuses provide information about external assessment for each subject.

Sample papers

View the sample papers for the subjects you study, to get an idea of what external assessment will be like. You can find them in the Assessment tab on each General syllabus page on the QCAA website.

Equipment

Each syllabus details the equipment you will need for the external assessment. It may include:

• Blue or black pens
• Pencils (2B)
• A sharpener
• A clear plastic ruler
• An eraser
• Approved calculator
• Specific equipment

On the day, students may bring your equipment in a clear container or zip-lock bag.  Students may also bring water in a clear unlabelled bottle.

Mobile phones, smart watches and/or other electronic devices will not be permitted in the examination room.

The External assessment equipment list (PDF, 175.3 KB) contains information about the approved equipment for all assessments, including calculators, student devices, subject-specific equipment and prohibited items.

The 2023 external assessments will be held from Monday 23 October to Tuesday 14 November.

The 2023 external assessment timetable has been designed to:

• minimise clashes for students across the 17 days of external assessments. Where there is a clash within a morning or afternoon session, students will be allocated to the alternative session on the same day
• ensure students sit no more than two external assessments on one day
• provide sufficient breaks between external assessments for popular courses and frequently combined courses
• enable all external assessments to be marked in time for students to receive their final Year 12 results.

Directions for students

External assessments are administered by schools in line with the QCAA’s requirements. Students must also follow the requirements outlined in the Directions for students (PDF, 243.1 KB).

Mr Rodney Spain

Assistant Principal Senior Years

With the commencement of term 4, the 2025 student leadership team have officially begun in their roles. Our team is looking forward to the year ahead and the opportunity to guide our College. The Year 12 cohort are quickly coming to the end of their schooling life. Their year celebrating their last swimming carnival, their last internal assignment and final days spending in the classrooms are quickly coming to an end. We wish the best of luck to all students with their preparations for their upcoming external exams.

On the weekend, 3 teams of students went away to the Gold Coast and represented our college at the Gold Coast Titans All Schools Touch Carnival. The under 15’s boys’ team had great results finishing in the top 16 out of their age group. Congratulations to all these students on their achievements at this carnival.

Good luck to all the students running for House Captain, with their speeches taking place next week. We can’t wait to see the elected candidates succeed in their roles.

Thanks,

Chloe and Braithen

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.

Rugby Union

Last term four boys – Toby Peterson, Braithen Crothers, Cobie Wedrat and Fletcher James having been playing Rugby Union in a combined Mary MacKillop / St Joseph’s / OLSCC Team in the Darling Downs Schools Cup Competition. The team has had a successful season- however unfortunately lost the grand final to Toowoomba Anglican School 22-12.

Touch Football

Congratulations to all students who attended the QLD All Schools Carnival at Runaway Bay on the Gold Coast. Thanks to Leah McDuff, Kaysey Wilkins, and Zac Storey for coaching our teams, along with Brenton McMillian and Jack Gibson who refereed on behalf of the College, along with Mr Storey. The highlight of the carnival was the performance of the U15 Boys Team who made it through to the Final 16 for the first time since 2020. All bar one of the boys will be eligible to play U15’s again in 2025 which is a promising sign for the College. The Under 15 Girls also had a successful carnival and came away with their best result since 2014.

Under 15 Boys -2^nd in Pool

Win vs Sienna Catholic Sippy Downs                  5-0

Win vs Foxwell State College                              13-2

Win vs Mansfield SHS                                        6-3

Win vs St Thomas Mores College                        7-3

Win vs Unity College Caloundra                          4-1

Loss to Emmaus Rockhampton                           7-3

Round of 16 Finals Game

Loss to St Mary’s Toowoomba (Semifinalist)        6-1

 

Under 15 Girls – 3^rd in Pool

Win vs Faith Lutheran (Pre Carnival)                   8-0

Win vs Redlands College                                    5-1

Win vs St Joseph’s Coomera                              5-0

Loss to Shalom Bundaberg (Quarterfinalist)         11-1

Loss to Cleveland SHS (Quarterfinalist)               7-1

Win vs Ormeau Woods SHS                               2-1

Draw with Bundaberg SHS                                 3-3

Under 18 Mixed Team 7^th in Pool

Win vs Toowoomba Anglican (Pre Carnival)         4-2

Loss to Emmanuel Carrara                                 7-4

Loss to Miami SHS (Quarterfinalist)                    6-2

Loss to Bribie Island SHS                                   6-2

Loss to William Ross SHS Townsville                  5-4

Draw with Trinity Lutheran Ashmore                    5-5

Loss to St Columban’s Caboolture                      7-3

Darling Downs Schools Cup Volleyball

The College sent four teams to the Year 7/8 Darling Downs Schools Cup Competition. Thanks to Mrs Lincoln, Mrs Sullivan, Mrs Twidale and Mrs Harwood along with Senior Students – Kash Hunt, Abby Zillman, Lucy Cusack, Charlotte Bennie, Jacinda Smith, Ziggy Utz and High Walker for coaching our teams.

Students named Most Valuable Player for their Teams:

Year 7 Boys – Felix Twidale

Year 7 Girls – Lainey Geiger

Year 7/8 Girls – Charlotte Colquhoun

Year 8 Boys – Louie Machin

Year 8 Girls – Sophie Donaldson

Tim Lincoln

Middle Leader Sport

College Art Show

Thank you for attending the College Art Show last Friday! Your presence truly made the event a success. We were inspired by the incredible creativity and talent on display, which beautifully embodied our theme of “Think Big, Act Boldly and Serve Others.” Each artwork not only showcased individual vision but also reflected a commitment to community and service, highlighting the values we cherish as a school.

We invite you to join us for our upcoming assembly next week, where we will recognise and celebrate the achievements of our talented artists. It’s a wonderful opportunity to honour their hard work and dedication. Your support plays a vital role in fostering a vibrant artistic community, and we look forward to seeing you there as we continue to inspire one another.

Thank you once again for your enthusiasm and encouragement! We can’t wait to see what you come up with next time.

Wicked

This week is our upcoming excursion to see the musical Wicked at QPAC which promises to be a valuable and entertaining day. If you are coming along don’t forget to return permission and medical forms as soon as possible!

Year 12 Students Early Offers to University 2025 

The end of a year 12 is always and exciting and sometimes uncertain time for a school leaver and the transition into life after school can be a challenge. It is also exciting for those who are provided with an opportunity for early entry into university. The following students have applied for early entry for university and have been offered a position in a course of their choice in 2025. Congratulations to Nadine Garside, Alex Gould, Kaitlyn Harms, Lyucian King-Togia and Shannon Larsen who have been offered and have accepted courses at the University of Southern Queensland. Congratulations to Kirra Utz-Kruske who has accepted an early offer into her preferred course at Griffith University, Brisbane.  

Key Dates for 2024 

17 October               Yr 12 SBA/Traineeship Employer thank you lunch  

26 November            Yr 9 QCAA Portal and USI number applications.  

27 November           Yr 9 Orientation of Work Experience and Micro-Skills 2025 

Aviation Australia – Careers Evening at UniSQ Tooowoomba 

Aviation Australia have organised an aerospace careers information night, which will be held on the 17 October at UniSQ Toowoomba Campus. It will showcase Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Defence Australia, Defence Careers, Aviation Australia, Wellcamp Airport, Qantas Group Pilot Academy, and Austrek. UniSQ will also have their flight simulator open for the evening. 

Available Apprenticeships  

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.  

NRG Services Apprenticeships 2025

NRG Services are offering an Electrician and Refrigeration Mechanic apprenticeships for 2025, please see flyer for more information. 

This work would suit people that want to gain skills in a retail environment and would like to build a career in Sales, Warehousing and Purchasing. Or for people that want to enter the workforce directly after finishing year 12. 

• Sales and Retail – Tasks include serving customers across multiple industries both over the counter and via the phone and email sales. There is a wide range of product to learn that can transfer across industries. Our salespeople have built careers where they earn $80 – $100k per year with Dalby General Steel. Other long-term former employees have gone onto become purchasing managers for large manufacturers or to procurement roles in mining and gas earning $100k – $150k. 

• Warehousing – Opportunity to learn skills of warehousing and gain licences such as forklift, HR truck and Cert 3 in Supply Chain Operations. Our experienced warehouse people earn approx. $80k per annum. 

• Stock Control and Purchasing – As an addition to the sales and retail role we also train our people in Purchasing, Procurement and Stock Control. Building relationships with suppliers and shopping around the best value for products and services. 

Toowoomba Regional Council – Electrical Apprenticeship 

Advising that at TRC we have an Apprentice Electrician position currently being advertised, with the following details that your Year 12 finishing might be interested: 

• Position Title: Apprentice Electrician 

• Ad open date: Wednesday 25/09/24 

• Ad close date: Tuesday 22/10/24 

• Link to ad HERE 

Warehouse/Store Person Position 

A full time permanent position or employment for a gap year for 2025 is on offer in the position of a warehouse/store person at Dalby Engine Rebuilders. Please see flyer for more details. 

Gap Year Opportunity  

There is an opportunity to work in the agricultural sector starting this year as part of a gap year. A local agronomist company is seeking a student who will complete year 12 this year to start at the end of November and work through to the end of April in 2025. You will also receive on the job training and work as a labourer for an agronomist. This job will be for 4 days per week and 11 hrs. per day. You will need a manual driver's license and be physically fit and do not mind working outdoors over the summer months. This position also pays $30/hr. If you are interested, please speak to me or contact Kylie Fuelling form Fuelling Agriculture Company on 0428 716 502.

Dean Garside

Careers Development Practitioner

Term 4 Fees - Due 24 October 2024

A friendly reminder that Term 4 fees have been issued and are due on Thursday, 24 October 2024. Please contact the College Business Manager if you have any concerns.

Sarah Hall

Business Manager

Fresh Flavours

As term 4 starts and we transition into the warmer weather, the Tuckshop team have changed around the menu slightly to add some seasonal fresh changes to tantalize the tastebuds.  The most exciting new addition is the cheeseburger, available on Thursdays, but we also have some fresh wraps, and watermelon added in. The class favorite, the Birthday Bucket, is back with a little present for the birthday child and enough Quelch ice blocks to share with the class.

As the term settles in keep your eye out for little menu changes and additions as we adapt and get feedback over what is working and what isn’t working. We welcome your feedback and suggestions so just pop in and see us or give the Tuckshop a call Wednesday to Friday.

Toni Campbell

Tuckshop Convenor