SJRC Newsletter: Term 2 Week 8 - 20th June 2025
Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD)
The College is currently preparing data for the annual Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD). This collection helps build a national picture of the support provided to students with disability.
Please be assured that all data provided to the Australian Government is de-identified. No individual student can be identified in the information submitted, and the privacy and confidentiality of all students are strictly protected.
Mrs Tanya Daley
Principal
Set Sail on the Jubilee Year of Hope!
The Jubilee Year of Hope officially began on December 24, 2024, when Pope Francis opened the Holy Door of St Peter's Basilica in Rome. This special year is a time for reflection, renewal, and hope for Catholics around the world.
Right here in our diocese, we have a unique way to participate in this significant event! Thanks to an initiative by Father Paul Gooley, with the blessing of the Bishop, Newman Senior Technical College has designed and built a special, travelling symbol of pilgrimage and connection.
This symbol takes the form of a beautiful boat, chosen to represent the rivers, waterways, and ocean that connect many of our parishes. This design also aligns with the international symbol for the Year of Jubilee.
The Jubilee boat has been with us at St Joseph's Regional College since Tuesday! It's currently on display in the chapel, and our Religion Education classes will be visiting to discuss the central theme of the Jubilee Year: Hope. The boat also formed a special part of our prayer space for assembly, where a dedicated prayer for the Jubilee Year was read.
The Jubilee boat will embark on a journey, travelling to all parishes and schools across our diocese throughout this Jubilee Year. This is a wonderful opportunity for students and parishioners alike to engage in pilgrimages and prayers, fostering a deeper sense of unity and hope within our community.
Year 11 Students Supporting Our Community Through Food Drive
Our Year 11 students of Catholic Faith in Action are leading a school-wide food drive to support the St Agnes Parish Community and Youth Hub. As part of their commitment to serving others, they are calling on all students and families to donate non-perishable food items.
These donations will go directly towards restocking the pantry at the Parish Community Hub, helping to support individuals and families experiencing hardship in our local area.
This is a powerful opportunity for our school community to come together in generosity and compassion. We encourage everyone to get involved and make a difference—every item makes a difference.
Donations can be brought to school and placed in the designated collection tubs located in PC classrooms. Thank you for your support!
Year 11 Service Mass and Acts of Compassion
This week, our Year 11 students came together to celebrate a Service Mass with Fr Prodencio Bognay and Deacon Shane Hyland, recognising their commitment to living out our College values through service to others.
Students raised an amazing $560 for 'Make a Difference' (M.A.D), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting disadvantaged and marginalised people in our local community. Many students have also signed up to be trained as volunteers for the M.A.D. program, where they will help prepare and serve meals for people experiencing homelessness in our local community.
To celebrate their generosity and dedication, students enjoyed an Out of Uniform Day today.
We are proud of their compassion and commitment to making a meaningful difference.
Embracing Compassion: Our College Supports the Vinnies Winter Appeal
As the crisp air of winter begins to settle, it's a time when many of us look forward to the comfort of warm homes, cozy blankets, and hot meals. Yet, for thousands of Australians, winter brings a stark and often brutal reality: homelessness. This year, our College is proud to launch our annual Vinnies Winter Appeal, an initiative close to our hearts, aimed at making a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing hardship.
It's easy to perceive homelessness as a distant issue, something that doesn't touch our immediate community. However, the truth is far more confronting. The ABS Census in 2021 revealed that over 122,000 people experience homelessness on any given night across Australia. These aren't mere statistics; they are individuals – people just like you and me – facing immense challenges.
The face of homelessness is also more diverse than many might imagine. While the image of "sleeping rough" on the streets often comes to mind, a significant number of people experiencing homelessness are in severely crowded dwellings, staying in crisis accommodation, or even "couch surfing" with friends or family. This complex issue is driven by a multitude of factors, including the critical shortage of affordable housing, the pervasive impact of family violence, mental health challenges, and unemployment.
This is where the St Vincent de Paul Society, or Vinnies, plays an incredibly vital role. Vinnies provides a comprehensive and holistic safety net for those in need. They offer far more than just a bed for the night; they provide wrap-around support, advocacy, and crucial community connection to help individuals exit homelessness permanently. They are truly on the front lines, addressing immediate needs while tirelessly working towards long-term solutions for those doing it tough.
How our College can make a difference this year:
We are thrilled to announce several fantastic opportunities for our entire College community to get involved and support Vinnies in their vital work this winter:
- Out of Uniform Day! On Thursday of Week 9, students are invited to come to school in their casual clothes by making a gold coin donation. Every coin, no matter how small, helps Vinnies provide essential services to those in need.
- Warm Clothes Collection: It's not just about monetary donations. We are also collecting donations of warm clothes. Please consider those jumpers, scarves, and coats you may have outgrown or no longer wear. If they are in good condition, clean, and warm, please bring them in! Your generous donation can make a world of difference to someone braving the cold this winter.
- Vinnies School Sleepout: For those seeking a truly impactful experience, we invite you to join the Vinnies School Sleepout! This incredible opportunity allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of what it might be like to experience homelessness. You’ll spend one night "sleeping rough" – typically on cardboard, with just a sleeping bag, and a simple dinner of soup and bread. It's not about replicating homelessness, but about fostering empathy, challenging perceptions, and raising crucial funds for Vinnies' homelessness services right here in our local community. Our College Sleepout will be held on August 1st here at the College. Keep an eye out for more details, and if you wish to sign-up, please see Emily or Mr. Hyland in the coming days.
Sign up for the Vinnes School SleepOut
Imagine the collective difference we can make together. By participating in these initiatives, we are not just raising money; we are raising awareness, fostering empathy, and demonstrating our unwavering support for those in our community who need it most. Every action, whether big or small, contributes to Vinnies' inspiring mission of creating a more just and compassionate Australia where no one has to endure the harsh realities of homelessness.
Let’s come together as a College community and make this Vinnies Winter Appeal our most successful yet! Your generosity and compassion can truly warm a life this winter.
St Agnes' Church Gospel Reflections
Fr Paul Gooley is continuing to provide Gospel readings and reflections via email and online Monday to Saturday for those interested in connecting with their faith in this way.
Click to watch Fr Paul's Gospel Readings and Reflections.
St Agnes' Parish News Bulletin
The Parish news bulletin will now be published monthly.
The latest edition is available via this link Parish News Bulletin
Mr Shane Hyland
Acting Assistant Principal - Mission
Years 7–10 Semester One Awards Ceremony
The Year 7–10 Semester One Awards Ceremony will be held on Friday, 4th July, from 9:05 am to 10:05 am in the College Hall.
A Compass alert will be sent to families by the middle of next week, notifying those whose child will be receiving an Outstanding Application Award, Achievement Award, or a Mission Service Award.
Parents and family members are warmly invited and encouraged to attend and celebrate the achievements of their child or relative.
Following the ceremony, students in Years 7–10 will resume normal classes for the remainder of the day. Year 11 and 12 students will have regular lessons all day and will not attend the ceremony.
Year 11 Semester One Awards Ceremony
The Year 11 Awards Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, 30th July, from 9:05 am to 10:00 am in the Performing Arts Centre (PAC).
This date accommodates the large number of Year 11 students undertaking work placement during Week 10, ensuring all award recipients can be present. As a result, Semester One reports for Year 11 students will be published later, to align with the ceremony in Week 2 of Term 3.
A Compass alert will be sent to families by the middle of Week 1, Term 3, notifying those whose child will be receiving an Outstanding Application Award, Achievement Award, or a Mission Service Award. This is to avoid any confusion with the Year 7–10 Awards notifications.
Parents and family members are warmly invited to attend as we celebrate the efforts and achievements of our Year 11 students throughout Semester One.
Issuing of Year 7–11 Semester One Academic Reports
Semester One academic reports will be released as follows:- Years 7–10: Reports will be available via the Parent Portal on Friday, 4th July (Week 10, Term 2) at 2:30 pm.
- Year 11: Reports will be issued on Wednesday, 30th July, following the Year 11 Awards Ceremony in Week 2, Term 3.
These reports offer valuable insights into your child’s academic progress during the first half of the year and will include three key components:
- Common Grade Scale (Years 7–10) / ROSA Grade (Year 11)
An A–E reporting scale that reflects overall achievement in each subject. - Academic Profile – Knowledge, Skills, and Understanding (KSUs)
This section reports on the student’s grasp of subject-specific content and outcomes. - Learning Behaviours – Commitment to Learning (CTLs)
A consistent set of descriptors across all subjects that reflect the student's work habits and classroom engagement.
We encourage all parents and carers to take the time to review and discuss the reports with their child to celebrate achievements and identify areas for growth.
Year 10 into Year 11 Transition Program
To support a smooth and informed transition into Stage 6, parent and student information sessions will be held at the start of next term. These sessions are designed to guide students as they begin to consider their pathway for Year 11 in 2025.
This week, students received their St Joseph’s Regional College Year 11 2025 Enrolment Handbook, with the Newman Senior Technical College handbook to follow shortly.
Families are encouraged to attend the following important information evenings:
- St Joseph’s Regional College – Year 11 2025 Information Evening
Monday, 28th July at 6:00 pm in the College Hall - Newman Senior Technical College – Year 11 2025 Information Evening
Tuesday, 29th July at Newman College
These sessions are key opportunities to learn more about course options, expectations, and the enrolment process for Stage 6.
Year 12 Trial Preparation Seminar
As the Trial HSC exams draw near, St Joseph’s Regional College is pleased to offer a Year 12 Trial Preparation Seminar on Wednesday, 2nd July, from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm in the College Library.
This seminar is designed to support students in the lead-up to their Trials by providing practical strategies and tools for effective exam preparation, with the aim of empowering them to approach the Trial period with confidence, clarity, and a clear plan for success. Topics will include:
- Study techniques and time management
- Coping with exam stress and performing under pressure
- Using feedback from practice tasks to improve performance
Led by experienced staff, the session will also allow students to ask questions, share study tips with peers, and access subject-specific resources.
Afternoon tea will be provided, and all Year 12 students are strongly encouraged to attend and take advantage of this additional support. This is a valuable opportunity to build confidence and refine preparation strategies ahead of the Trials.
For any questions, parents and caregivers are welcome to contact the College. Let’s work together to ensure our students feel supported and ready for the challenges ahead.
Successful Transitions’ Careers Information Night
Following the Trial Preparation Seminar, from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm, we invite students to join their parents in the PAC for our annual ‘Successful Transitions’ Careers Information Night, where we’ll cover all things related to life beyond the HSC.
- Life after the HSC
- University application process
- Alternative entry schemes
- Costs
- Scholarships
- and more....
Ian Lutton
Assistant Principal - Mission
Parent Consultative Group
Are you:
- Unsure about what is happening at school to support your child’s wellbeing?
- Wanting to better understand the adolescent social media world?
- Wanting to learn more about Snapchat but not sure where to start?
- Seeking practical parenting strategies to supervise your teen’s online activities?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, our Term 2 Parent Consultative Group gathering is for you! The evening will be held in the College Library from 5.30 pm on Monday 30th June.
We will commence with an overview of the SJRC approach to Student Wellbeing, followed by a parent-friendly Snapchat tutorial.
Parents attending are asked to bring along a device (mobile phone or iPad) with the Snapchat App installed, and our Wellbeing Team members will guide you through privacy settings and hidden functionality within the app you may not be aware of.
Please RSVP VIA THIS LINK.
Digital Technologies User Agreement
This week at our College Assembly, Mr Matthew Cato (Leader of Digital Technologies) and I spoke to the students about their responsibilities in light of the Digital Technologies User Agreement they sign at the start of each year. In particular, attention was drawn to the following dot-points:
- Respect the privacy of others; only taking photos or recording sound or video at school when I have formal consent or it is part of an approved lesson.
- Not bringing to school or downloading unauthorised programs, including games.
- Not using a VPN ( Virtual Private Network service).
It was clearly emphasised that, in line with policy, no student should film or sound record in any school setting using their laptop or another device unless they are explicitly directed to do so by a staff member. We have become aware that a number of students have been covertly recording lessons, or parts of lessons, without the knowledge or consent of their teachers. Not only is this a breach of the Agreement, but it also detracts from learning and teaching focus and undermines the privacy of students and staff. We are confident this issue has now been addressed with a strong resetting of expectations. If a student is found to be covertly recording staff or peers, a consequence will be issued, and devices will be confiscated for parents to collect. We appreciate your partnership in this matter.
Understanding Screen Addiction FREE Webinar
Bookings are essential as theatre capacity is limited. Your free ticket includes session entry and light refreshments.
Mrs Jennifer Furney
Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
ICAS 2025 International Competitions and Assessments for Schools
SJRC is inviting students in Years 7-10 to participate in the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS) this year. ICAS is an online academic competition that provides students with the opportunity to challenge their higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills in English, Mathematics, and Science.
We encourage you to consider registering your child for ICAS this year. The assessments provide an excellent opportunity for students to extend themselves academically and engage with thought-provoking questions. Each test is developed by subject experts and is designed to assess students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills. Students do not need to complete any additional preparation or revision.
The 2025 ICAS Assessments are online and will be held at school in the following weeks:
- Term 3 Week 4 (12/8/25) – English
- Term 3 Week 5 (20/8/25) – Science
- Term 3 Week 6 (27/8/25) – Mathematics
Parents can now register and pay for ICAS using the University of NSW online portal.
- Read about ICAS subjects and prices here: icasassessments.com
- Go to Parent Portal to purchase tests here: Parent Portal
- Enter our school’s access code – BAP567
- Enter your child’s details, select the tests you would like to purchase, then proceed
- Please note, online registration and payment will close on Monday 28th July, 2025.
Bronwyn Canning
Leader of High Potential Learners
Hannah Sanders - Class of 2020
Hannah has been a servicewoman in the Royal Australian Air Force. After completing her HSC at St Joseph’s Regional College in 2020, she commenced a career in the RAAF, progressing through various certifications, including a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management, and is currently studying a Bachelor of Rural Science at the University of New England, externally.
Hannah grew up on a hobby farm near Port Macquarie. She enjoyed hobbies such as horse riding, camping, and fishing – all of which contributed to her passion for sustainable agriculture and research science. Upon completing her degree, she hopes to undertake work in sustainable agricultural research, as she understands the importance of this field in the global context. She will have the ability to help and assist producers, making an impact on the way we approach and tackle issues affecting the agricultural industry.
Best wishes, Hannah – your journey and your use of ‘stepping stones’ to build your path is a great example of career development.
#aHSC4opportunity #wherearetheynow #servicewoman #sustainablescientist
Encounter Youth
The Encounter Youth Program is held every Friday at the Youth Hub.
Come along and join in the fun.
Encounter Kick-on’s (Sunday’s after the 5:00 pm Mass)
Group games and supper. Come join us.
St Agnes' Catholic Parish
49 Hay Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444
T 02 6588 7444
E zac.parnell@stagnesparish.org.au
| Term 2 Week 9 Lunch Specials | |
| Monday | No specials - regular menu only |
| Tuesday | Chicken Pesto Pasta |
| Wednesday | Pumpkin Soup |
| Thursday | BBQ Chicken & Bacon Pizza |
| Friday | Tandoori Chicken & Rice |
| Term 2 Week 10 Lunch Specials | |
| Monday | No specials |
| Tuesday | Savoury Mince on Roast Potato |
| Wednesday | Butter Chicken & Rice |
| Thursday | Bacon & Cheese Burger |
| Friday | No specials |
We have a delicious variety of 'Lunch Specials', available for $7.00 from Tuesday to Friday, and an everyday menu.
Breeanna Stone
Food Services Manager
St Joseph's Regional College has a number of different social media platforms. We would love for you to follow us.
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St Joseph's Regional College
Website - https://www.pmreglism.catholic.edu.au/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SJRCPort
Instagram - @sjrcport
St Joseph's Regional College - 50 year Celebrations
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SJRC50years
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sjr50years/
Digital Ministry
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sjrcdigitalministry
Library
Website - https://pmreglism.libguides.com/home
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sjrcexchange
Instagram - Instagram - @sjrcexchange
Careers
Website - https://www.sjrcportcareers.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sjrcportcareers
Port Macquarie PCYC & The PC Hub
The Port Macquarie PCYC & The PC Hub are joining forces to make a difference in the lives of the Youth in our community.
PCYC does incredible work in our community by providing safe, inclusive spaces where young people can grow, learn, and thrive through sport, mentorship, and life skills programs. Their tireless commitment to empowering youth and strengthening community connections makes them a vital force for positive change.
However, they noticed a gap... Youth who aren't particularly sporty were less likely to engage with their programs.
Enter The PC Hub... our shared vision to provide inclusive support programs that empower Youth in their uniqueness for a brighter future made for a natural partnership, but with a twist.
Our goal is to work together to provide a fun and engaging Friday Night program for the more tech-inspired Youth, their friends and family - introducing them to the incredible teams, services and support available at the PCYC.
Tournament team spots are limited, so registration is essential. It's also helpful to know how many spectators intend to attend, so we can cater to them as well.
All enquiries and registrations can be directed to play@thepchub.au
