St Saviour's College, Toowoomba eNewsletter

Principal

Last week as a College, we celebrated Catherine McAuley Day. We began the day in home classes, celebrated Eucharist together at the Cathedral and then undertook activities associated with our values through the rest of the day. It was truly a highlight of the year!

In my address at Mass, I spoke to the whole College community about a conversation I had the previous week with former Principal Niall Coburn. In my chat with him, he reminisced on his time at St Saviour’s calling it ‘a wondrous joy’. He playfully described that he had not felt more alive than in his time at St Saviour’s College. He said, ‘each day with those girls was a delight and a joy and an exercise in frivolity. I recall fondly the joy I had spending my days with girls at St Saviour’s.’

The gospel story chosen for the mass was the road to Emmaus, the classic tale of our human failure to recognise what is right before us. In Niall’s voice I could hear clearly, that St Saviour’s had been a wonderful place for him, and whilst he savoured every day at the College, this knowledge truly crystallised for him when he moved to a school in Brisbane and found a community that was not quite the same at this great place.

Catherine McAuley’s story, and our joy in retelling it, inspires us in so many ways - Catherine in 1840s Ireland truly reimagined the social structures of her time. She looked at the impact of the penal laws on Irish Catholics and saw how they disempowered people, how they relegated them to poverty and set about to practically support people in her community- providing them with what they needed to get work - sewing classes or technical skills that would keep women employed in a time when many in Ireland were destitute, providing safe accommodation so that women could undertake jobs without being vulnerable to sexual and physical violence.

I often talk to students at assembly about our personal responsibility to create the community of mercy we came here to find. If it is hospitality, compassion, justice and excellence that we are seeking, it is these values we have to demonstrate in our care or each other and in our stewardship of this place. By the end of the day, our exceptional students had done just that.

In the middle session of the day the Year 7s and 8s participated in a St Vinnies immersion around homelessness.

Our year 9s had made treat boxes and written words of affirmation to take to Tony’s kitchen, then went down to Tony’s Kitchen to sort warm clothes and prepare for the evening meal.

The Year 10s went to Vinnies and had a tour of their services and partook in some op-shopping, learning how they can be involved in Vinnies into the future.

Our senior students, beat the pavement, inspired by the example of Catherine McAuley and all the walking nuns who have come since her, and visited businesses in the CBD collecting donations for the Vinnies Winter Appeal. The outpouring of generosity from our local community was exceptional.

Our students on Catherine McAuley Day were able to experience first hand the feeling of being part of something bigger than themselves and contribute meaningfully to the lives and experiences of others.

Our students found out that creating a mercy community is not confined to this place. Their gift to the world will be their mercy heart, their place of difference. There is room everywhere, Christian or not, for a little more hospitality, a little more justice, a little more compassion and a little more excellence.

I thank the exceptional team of Megan Schulze, Ann Young, Helen Ryan and Leah Dempster for their work in providing such an amazing day for students.

PEN Meeting

Our next PEN meeting will be held at 6pm on Wednesday of Week 6. I invite all parents to attend. Light refreshments will be provided.

At this meeting we will be electing our 2025 Executive. This will include our President, secretary and work party members.

We will then move to a discussion around Master Planning and be gathering parent feedback around the types of facilities that will future-proof our College for both our current students and future student enrolments. This discussion will also begin looking at the future of both ‘The Residence’ on the corner of Neil and Lawrence Streets and ways we might repurpose our current boarding facilities.

Prompt Payment of School Fees

I write to respectfully implore all families to ensure they are making plans to ensure payment of school fees in a timely manner. The provision of excellent resources, our desire to improve current facilities including the much needed purchasing of new classroom projectors and heating and cooling of classrooms is dependent on fee payment.

There are many options for the payment of fees, including weekly, fortnightly direct debits or term by term payments. Our friendly finance team of Pam, Crystal and Chris are happy to discuss payment options and payment plans with you.

Deputy Principal - Teaching and Learning

Embracing Failure: The Pathway to Success.

The fear of failure is a human condition, hardwired into our primitive brains, designed to keep us safe from physical and psychological harm. However, this quest for safety often comes at a significant cost—it can prevent us from learning, growing, and evolving. Consider the milestone of learning to ride a bike. It's an endeavour marked by numerous falls and stumbles. Yet, these moments of failure are not just inevitable; they are essential. Each misstep teaches balance and resilience, shaping us not just into skilled cyclists but into individuals who understand that succeeding usually requires persistence through repeated failures.

Building on this idea, it’s crucial to recognise the value of taking risks and embracing failure within the classroom as well. When students step outside their comfort zones in the classroom—be it through sharing an unconventional idea, attempting a challenging problem, or participating in a debate—they open themselves to the possibility of making mistakes. Such moments, though potentially fraught with the fear of failure, are invaluable for learning. For instance, when students share their thoughts aloud, they not only expose their own misconceptions for correction but also contribute to a collective pool of understanding from which the entire class can learn. Sitting safely in silence is the quiet enemy of learning.

We encourage our students to see their classrooms as safe arenas for experimentation, where making mistakes is not only accepted but expected and celebrated as part of the learning process. Dare to ask questions when in doubt, offer answers even if they might be incorrect, and attempt new methods or approaches in your projects and assignments. These actions might evoke a fear of failure, but they are essential steps on the path to learning and growth. By consciously choosing to engage and participate, even in the face of potential failure, we equip ourselves with the resilience and confidence necessary for success in not just academics, but in life itself.

Eleighta Hannam
Deputy Principal

Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Engagement

Being part of this community is a true gift. When we find a community where we feel accepted and loved, as well as it aligning with our values, we set a foundation where individuals can thrive. The Australian Government: Department of Health and Aging state (2024) -

“Being part of a community can have a positive effect on mental health and emotional wellbeing. Community involvement provides a sense of belonging and social connectedness. It can also offer extra meaning and purpose to everyday life”.

Last Thursday, Catherine McAuley Day, was truly a celebration of our Mercy community, where we come from and who we are today. After Mass, students engaged in activities based around our four Mercy values – Justice: Student vs Teacher Debate, Compassion: Acts of service activities, Hospitality: shared House cakes and Excellence: Mercy Shield Gaelic Football Competition.

Staff and students embraced the day and built connections in Houses, year levels and then with the wider community. I was privileged to work with the grade 11 and 12 girls collecting donations from local businesses for the Vinnie’s Winter Appeal and I know we all felt that it was such a worthwhile experience. I already have marked this in my calendar as one of my favourite Mercy Days and looking forward to what the students bring to it next year!

Congratulations to Plamedi Kalenga and Madeliene Martin who were voted by their year 7 peers to join the SRC for terms 2-4. We look forward to the contribution the girls will bring to the team.

Grade 11 and 12 students, along with myself, Ms Hunter and Mrs McGovern, attended the P.A.R.T.Y (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-related Trauma in Youth) Program at the Toowoomba Base Hospital. The program was an amazing opportunity for the girls to discuss the choices their age has to consider and then practically looked at the consequences of some of the choices. The girls worked with all different health practitioners from ED nurses and doctors, LifeFlight and ambulance paramedic and Occupational Therapists. The powerful message of “You only live once so think twice” was one that all participants walked away with.

Parenting can be a tough gig and sometimes an isolating one when our teens say, “Well you’re the only parent who doesn’t let me do that…”. It is one that doesn’t come with an individual manual for each child yet many professionals have tried to summarise it! In my efforts as a parent to not feel alone in my parenting decisions, I have often turned to researchers and experts in the field such as Maggie Dent. I often listened to Maggie on Parental as Anything Podcast on ABC and now I urge you to give it a try. Maggie has handed the reigns over to teen expert Rebecca Sparrow and the program delves into parenting teens. It may be one tool that you can use to empower you in your parenting. Another empowering opportunity is the upcoming Adair Donaldson parent session hosted by St Joseph’s “Raising good young people for our modern world”. Adair is a valued Solicitor who has been making a significant impact on young people in high schools. His presentations focus on educating students about the legal consequences of various real-world scenarios.

In his engaging presentations, he covers critical issues such as sexual harassment, consent, social media, alcohol abuse, violence, and illicit drug use. By guiding students through these topics in a fun yet effective manner, he ensures they understand their rights and the laws governing specific actions. His presentations equip young people with knowledge that extends beyond mere ethics, empowering them to make informed decisions.

As parents and caregivers, it is essential that we are well-informed to have open and honest conversations with our young people about these important and real issues.

The event is free, but registering is a must and if getting to SJC is difficult it can be accessed via Live Stream.

Venue: St Joseph's College, MacKillop Centre (face-to-face presentation)

Date: Tuesday 14 May

Time: 5:30 - 6:30pm

Delivery of Presentation: Face-to-Face presentation at St Joseph's College OR via Live Stream

Register for Event: https://tinyurl.com/sjcAdair - by Monday 13 May

Assistant Principal - Mission and Identity

Catherine McAuley Mass

Last Thursday, our school community came together in a special mass to honor the remarkable legacy of Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy. The mass served as a poignant tribute to Catherine's unwavering faith, her dedication to serving others, and her profound impact on Mercy Education, which has flourished for 151 years at our College.

The theme of "Through Open Doors" resonated throughout the mass, symbolising the dynamic interplay between faith and action inspired by Catherine McAuley. The double-hinged door of Baggot Street served as a powerful metaphor for the reciprocal relationship between receiving God's love and sharing it with others, echoing Catherine's timeless teachings and the mission of the Sisters of Mercy. May we continue to draw inspiration from Catherine's example as we strive to embody the spirit of Mercy in all that we do.

Year 11 First Nations Leadership Camp: A Journey to the Bunya Mountains

This week our Year 11 First Nations students embarked on a remarkable three-day leadership camp at the Bunya Mountains, fully immersed in the rich cultural traditions of Australia's First Nations peoples. This immersive experience was designed to foster leadership skills, promote mindfulness, and deepen our students' understanding of First Australian’s history and culture.

The camp commenced with a traditional smoking ceremony, which welcomed students and set the stage for the following days of learning and reflection. The students participated in various activities, including a bush walk that introduced them to the diverse flora and fauna of the region while educating them on local bush foods and their significance in First Nations communities.

At the heart of the camp was the yarning circle, a sacred space where participants gathered to share stories, reflect, and connect with each other. This inclusive tradition allowed students to understand different perspectives, building mutual respect and empathy. The students also engaged in weaving and painting sessions, exploring traditional art forms and expressing their creativity through these culturally significant practices.

In addition to creative activities, the camp emphasised mindfulness and leadership skills. Students learned about the profound history of First Nations peoples through discussions, historical stories, and hands-on activities that enriched their understanding of Australia's heritage. Dance sessions provided further opportunities to connect with ancient traditions, as students learnt traditional dances that celebrate the land and its people.

Business Manager

Hi families. Following are some updates regarding improvements around the school.

We have recently updated the main projector in our hall to provide a bright and clear image and are looking to update several projectors in our classrooms to ensure the best image for students. We have also installed five new doors and locks in our KR building including large glass panels for visibility. Our groundsmen, Warren G and Warren F are continuing to expand and beautify our gardens, bringing in new plants to add interesting variety to our garden beds.

Please also be reminded that school fees for term 2, 2024 are now overdue. If you have not yet made payment and do not have a payment arrangement in place, please contact our office on (07) 4637 1600 or accounts@ssctwb.catholic.edu.au to organise payment.

Chris Blomquist
Business Manager

McAuley Boarding News

Well, there certainly is never a dull moment at McAuley House. Football commenced last week and consequently I made my first visit to the ED at Toowoomba Hospital, nothing too serious but it is better to play it safe.

The girls represented themselves and our college magnificently at the Anzac Day March last week. Afternoons are certainly busy, and we are happy to help our girls make the most of all the opportunities available to them, but it does mean that we spend a lot of time in the van!

Labour Day Monday, we took our girls out to Peace Haven Park for a sausage sizzle lunch. The girls had a great time playing soccer, limbo, three legged races as well as enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. The fire pit has had a bit of use recently, board games were enjoyed on Saturday night and the girls feasted at our recent Viking themed night.

I take this opportunity to wish all of our Mothers and other significant women in our girls lives, a wonderful Mother’s Day and know that you will be missed and we will be thinking of you.

Diane May
Boarding Manager

Sports Update

Cross Country Results

The rescheduled Cross Country provided students with an opportunity to run or walk for their house points. Conducted during Week 1 Wednesday sport, the participation from our students was fantastic. Unfortunately some students fell victim to the odd fall and exhaustion at the finish line, however, they took it all in their stride to start Term 2 with a wonderful display of effort and attitude. Congratulations to McAuley House as overall champion house. The Mercy Shield is going to be very tight.

Greg Leathart
Middle Leader - Sport and HPE

DD School Sport Calendar

DD Nomination, Levy and Trial Calendar

Science and Technology Update

What an exciting week we have had in science last week!!!

Our drone program kicked off last week in an interesting and engaging program run by SHEMAPS. We are one of 6 schools in Queensland currently working with SHEMAPS to introduce our girls to the possibilities in Geospatial mapping. Check out some of our photos on Facebook. More opportunities for girls in grades 7, 8 and 9 will occur in Term 3.

This week we kick off our STEM club, Thursday afternoon 3.10pm to 4.15pm in JG2.We are fortunate to be partnering with Dr Anna Chruscik from the University of Southern Qld as part of the Queensland STEM partnership program. See what Anna has to say to our students:

We are really excited to have Anna on board and we look forward to seeing how far we can go in our STEM club. Just a reminder, starting this Thursday afternoon. Running every second week from 3.15pm-4.15pm in JG2. ALL ARE WELCOME!!

For any of our parents and guardians interested in Science, check out the flyer for the Pint of Science run by UniSQ next week.

Tammy Banks
Curriculum Leader - Science and Technology

Arts and Performance Update

ANZAC Liturgy: A Moving Tribute

In week one, our talented Year 12 student, Madi Smith, delivered a beautiful rendition of both the New Zealand and Australian national anthems. Accompanied by the Harlaxton RSL brass band and Mrs. Potter, Madi’s performance was a heartfelt tribute during the ANZAC liturgy, thoughtfully coordinated by Mrs. Wendy Collins and Ms. Leah Dempster.

Ethereal Sounds at St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Last Thursday, the Saviour’s Sisters College choir graced St. Patrick’s Cathedral with their angelic voices. Leading the hymns for the Catherine McAuley Day Mass, the choir’s performance included a stunning rendition of the Trusting Psalm, led by another talented Year 12 student, Mairead Obst. The cathedral resonated with the power of music, connecting our community in a spiritual experience.

Senior Choir Prepares for the Toowoomba Eisteddfod

Our Senior choir is hard at work, preparing for their upcoming performance at the Toowoomba Eisteddfod. On Saturday, May 18th, they will take the stage at the Empire Theatre in the 6pm Secondary School Vocal Ensemble section. Their dedication and passion promise an unforgettable performance, showcasing the depth of talent within our school.

Dance Students Shine at the Eisteddfod

This week, we celebrate two of our Dance students who are entering the Toowoomba Eisteddfod for the first time. Year 7 student Zoe Rabbitt-Sutton will compete on Friday, May 10th, in the 5pm 12 Years HipHop Solo section. Additionally, Year 10 student Ella Giuffrida will showcase her skills on Saturday, May 11th, in the 8am 14-year HipHop section. Let’s rally behind them and show our support!

“Elf the Musical Jr”: Our Magical Journey Continues!

In Partnership with St. Mary’s College

We’re thrilled to announce that our talented students have been hard at work preparing for the enchanting production of “Elf the Musical Jr.” This collaborative effort with our brother school, St. Mary’s College, promises to be a delightful experience for all.

Cast and Crew Shirts Arrive

Our cast and crew shirts have arrived, and they look fantastic! When you see staff and students proudly wearing our production shirts, be sure to offer your encouragement. Let’s create a buzz around this amazing production and spread the word far and wide.

Calling All Sponsors

We’re still seeking sponsors for “Elf the Musical Jr.” If you or someone you know can support our production, please refer to the attached flyer in this newsletter. Your contribution will make a significant impact, allowing us to enhance the overall experience for our audience.

Jennifer Potter
Program Leader - Arts and Performance

Library News

Welcome

Term 2 is moving along at a rapid rate, it is already week 4. This term is a big event term for the SSC library. We are hosting our Fandom Day towards the end of the term. This is supported by our “Read More in May” promotion. There is also a competition running for the month of May for our Fandom Day celebrations.

What’s Happening in the Library?

May started with a bang!

Our “Read More in May” promotion started with International Harry Potter Day and was followed closely by Star Wars “May the 4th Be with You” Day. We have just recently included our Peter Pan (Disney) Day.

Check out our Library Online Dashboard with lots of different titbits for these days and more will be added as more of our promotional days are celebrated.

SSC Library Online

Also, check out our physical displays in the library and pick up a book from a ‘fandom’ to read!

During this month we are running a competition for students – create a Fandom Day advertising poster – A4 size, digital or hand illustrated. Closes 31st May.

New Books in the Library!

Come and check out our new books – some are on display and others on the shelf. If there is one you would like to read and you are not sure where it is – just ask at the front desk, we love helping someone make a connection with one of the books waiting to be read. You can also check out our library online through our student intranet.

General Collections

Fiction Books