St Saviour's College Newsletter 2024 - Term 3 Week 8

Principal

Finals Season

The end of August is fast approaching and that can only signal one thing: finals season.

Points from across the year are calculated - the losses we would prefer to forget about, the glories we want to shout from the rooftop, all go onto our score card to decide which teams are worthy of a place. It is a time when early season poor form can haunt and disappoint, and when games can be won or lost within a minute.

On Saturday, I watched my husband play in a semi-final and his team lost in the last 15 seconds of the final quarter by one point. Heartbreak.

I also had the pleasure of watching our College netball team, under the watchful coaching and management eye of Kym Norman and Jayde Cavendish, trounce Fairholme College in the semi-final, making their way to a 3/4 playoff next weekend. Glory.

Sport gifts us some of our highest highs and lowest lows, all the gamut's of human emotion, but all under the caveat of: it’s only a game. As we know, the true gift of sport is the values that underpin any great sporting achievement: teamwork, reliability, consistency, tenacity and resilience.

I was so proud of the St Saviour’s netball team on Saturday. The team epitomises the community of St Saviour’s College and was a delight to watch. It comprises girls from a range of different year levels - Years 7 to 11, all playing alongside each other, cheering each other on and playing with wonderful sportsmanship always.

As our finals season approaches, whether it is a metaphoric final for our Year 10, 11 and 12 students who are approaching final exams, or true sporting finals for our sporting students, we pray to our loving God for strength. That we are able to know our true potential and show up in ways that demonstrate our capacity for diligence, our tenacious belief in our own potential and our willingness to support our peers in the spirit of teamwork. 

Announcement of Year 12 2025 Student Elected Leaders

It brings me great pleasure to announce our Student Elected Leaders for 2025. This group of students undertook a comprehensive leadership application process which included nominations, endorsements, speeches and interviews. We are confident that this group of exceptional students will lead the College with clarity, embodying our values of compassion, hospitality, justice and excellence. 

College Captain: Dimercia Kalenga

College Vice Captain: Elize Tom

Residential Leader: Paige Mills

First Nations Leader: Kiki Sands-Hart

Mission and Identity Leader: Liz Besa

Cultural Leader: Dhriti Shah

Sports leader: Olivia Soeters

Coolock House Leader: Hope Meldrum

Goretti House Leader: Norma Mullins

McAuley House Leader: Marni Leppien

Xavier House Leader: Bridget Staines

Jessica Wade
Principal

Deputy Principal - Teaching and Learning

Year 11 and 12 Exam Block 

Beginning from Wednesday 4 September, students in both Years 11 and 12 who are undertaking a General Pathway (ATAR) in their senior education will have the opportunity to study from home when they do not have exams. Their exams cover work from either the whole year long course (maths and science subjects) or from their most recent unit studies. I wish all students undertaking exams in the coming weeks the best as they strive to fulfil their potential.  

Applied subjects will run as usual. Students enrolled in applied subjects are expected to attend class as usual. They do not have exams to prepare for at home.  
 

Exam tips for success 

• Plan your study schedule ahead of time and stick to it. Avoid cramming the night before the exam 
• Take breaks every 30 minutes or so to stretch, relax and refresh your mind. Don't study for too long without a break 
• Eat healthy and balanced meals and snacks. Avoid junk food, caffeine and sugar that can make you feel jittery or crash later 
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and alert 
• Get enough sleep every night. Aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep. Avoid staying up late or pulling all-nighters 
• Exercise regularly to boost your mood, energy and brain power. Choose an activity that you enjoy 
• Manage your stress levels by using positive coping strategies such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, music, hobbies or talking to someone you trust 
• Be confident and optimistic about your performance. Don't let negative thoughts or emotions get in the way of your success. Remind yourself of your strengths and achievements 
• During the exam, read the instructions carefully and follow them. Answer the questions you know first and manage your time throughout. Check your answers for errors and omissions at the end of the exam - don’t leave early 

Year 10 Setting Sail Conference: Charting the Course for Senior Success 

Our Year 10 students recently embarked on a transformative journey at the Setting Sail Conference on the Gold Coast. This pivotal event marked a significant milestone in their senior preparation journey, providing them with the opportunity to reflect on their identities, aspirations, and the path ahead.

During the conference, students engaged in a range of activities designed to foster personal growth and teamwork. They explored various career options, reimagined their approach to health and wellbeing, and participated in exciting physical challenges. Most importantly, they had the chance to connect with their peers and create lasting memories as a group.

As our Year 10 cohort returned to school in Week 7, they brought with them a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh perspective on their senior pathway. They are now better equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, thanks to the invaluable lessons learned at the Setting Sail Conference.

The photos accompanying this summary capture the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie that our students displayed throughout the event. They serve as a testament to the transformative power of experiences like the Setting Sail Conference, which help shape our students into confident, well-rounded individuals ready to take on the world. 

Year 10 SET Plan Interviews 

Last week, our Year 10 students participated in their SET Plan Interviews, and we couldn't be prouder! Their level of preparation was impressive, showcasing their maturity and readiness for Senior School. Each student thoughtfully selected subjects and additional learning opportunities that reflect their passions and align with their future goals. Subject allocations and booklists will be sent out to students and parents this week. 

A crucial takeaway for our Year 10 students—and all those exploring their career paths—is that a career is an exciting journey of discovery, not just a job title to achieve. As Oprah Winfrey wisely said, “Create the highest grandest vision possible for your life because you become what you believe.” So, dream big and embrace the adventure ahead! 

Eleighta Hannam
Deputy Principal

Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Engagement

Year Level Meetings – Relationships “Handling gossip, rumours and drama cyclones”

Last week in the Year 7 and 8 and Year 9 and 10 year level assemblies, students focused on how their interactions impact on one another, long after the interaction has occurred. Students engaged with the Rebecca Sparrow webinar resources and the Rock and Water program throughout this session. It was wonderful when I returned from Year 12 retreat to hear students referencing terms such as, “I’m not getting involved in that drama cyclone” and “The gossip ends with me”. We will continue to promote this strong message as a College and would appreciate the same at home.  

Uniform – summer uniform

Students can now start changing over from winter to summer uniform. Starting Week 10, all students will need to be in their summer uniform – white socks and short sleeve blouses, no scarves. Many students have taken advantage of this and look wonderful in their summer uniform.  

Real Talk presentations – 10 September

In Week 10 we have presenters from Real Talk coming to present to our Year 7-10 students. Real Talk as a company, brings specialised expertise and a proven pedagogy to improve relationships, self-awareness, and to help students to understand and live Christian values. The cohorts will participate in the following presentations:

Year 7 and 8: Bold and beautiful

• The perception of beauty
• Self-awareness
• Friendships – the power of female friendships
• What is true beauty?

Year 9 and 10: Consent, respect and pornography

• Human dignity
• What consent is
• The law of consent
• Consent in practice
• Sexting and image-based abuse
• Consent and respect
• Current research around pornography and pornography use in Australia
• Potential impact of pornography on the individual, relationships, and society

Child Protection Week – 1 - 7 September  

The theme for Child Protection Week this year is “Every Conversation Matters.” As parents and carers, conversations between you and your children are vital – you are the most important person in your child’s life to advocate for them, listen to them, and share messages of safety and support.

This year during Child Protection Week we encourage parents and carers to speak with their children about their understanding of safety and their support networks. The National Office of Child Safety launched their “One Talk at a Time” campaign earlier in the year. Alongside this campaign they released a list of resources about how to have a conversation with your children and young people about safety. You can access these resources here. 

During Child Protection Week our students will be provided with a business card sized “Every Conversation Matters” resource outlining some key support services they can access via phone and online, and also remind them about who they can speak to at school if they have concerns about the safety of themselves or others.

Should any student be concerned about how they are being treated by an adult, or another child or young person, they are encouraged to speak up to a trusted staff member or one of our School Student Protection Contacts (SSPCs). All students were reminded who our SSPCs are, and that they are depicted on the ‘Keeping Safe’ posters located around the school. Child Protection is everyone’s business, and we are committed to making our school a safe, secure, and protected place of learning for every student.

Megan Schulze
Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Engagement

Assistant Principal - Mission and Identity

Year 12 Retreat

Last week, our 2024 graduating cohort participated in a profound and reflective experience at Alexandra Headlands during their Year 12 Retreat. Accompanied by Principal Jessica Wade, Assistant Principal Megan Schulze, Charlotte Croker, Chappy Helen, Father Ray, and myself, the retreat offered a unique opportunity for the students to pause, reflect, and consider both their past six years of Mercy education and the journey that lies ahead.

The retreat was a time of introspection, where the Year 12 students approached their reflections with sincerity and purpose. This experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact as they prepare to embark on the next chapter of their lives. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the teachers who generously shared their stories with the students, leaving them with insights that will be cherished as they move forward.

Rosies Outreach: A Community of Giving

This term, our community turned its focus towards supporting those in need within our local area, gathering donations for the Toowoomba Rosies Outreach - Friends on the Street. This initiative followed our Term 1 support for Project Compassion and the Vinnie’s Winter Appeal in Term 2.

Our collective efforts culminated today when Joe Robertson, the Toowoomba Branch Coordinator, received our donations during assembly. The generosity shown by our community is a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact we can have when we all contribute a little. The Rosies team deeply appreciates our ongoing support, not only through donations but also through the voluntary service of our senior students and staff at the Sunday Outreach.

Rosies’ mission goes beyond providing material assistance; it is about fostering friendship and creating a sense of connection for those who may feel isolated. In times when many families face increasing pressures, the work of Rosies within communities across Queensland is invaluable. To learn more about their incredible work, please view the most recent Rosies newsletter. 

The Rosies prayer 

O Jesus 
this clearly expresses the faith that God is a 
person who shares our humanity; individuals
may privately insert their own God or focus 
Make our hearts so human 
that others may feel at home with us 
outreach is firstly a human encounter to which we bring human virtues, particularly respect for the inherent dignity of others and humility in our weakness 
(make our hearts) So like Yours, 
that others may feel at home with You 
the spiritual foundation of Rosies recognises that 
the divine is present in each of us, and 
recognises that there is a power behind ours that will transform us and our encounters with others 
(make us) So forgetful of self 
that we might simply become the place 
where you and they meet 
expresses our hope that we all share in the ultimate encounter of friendship with God, and that we are instruments of God, that we are instruments of God, of a transcendent of goodness 
In the power of Your love and the joy of 
Your friendship. Amen 
this concluding statement acknowledges that 
it is God's power, His gift, that makes possible,
all we have and share. 

Social Justice Sunday: Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances

In a world filled with challenges, from violence and homelessness to the personal fears and anxieties we all carry, God calls us to listen, to see, and to act. This year’s theme for World Day of Social Justice, "Bridging Gaps, Building Alliances," chosen by the United Nations, emphasises the importance of collaboration and partnership in tackling the world’s most pressing issues.

During Social Justice Week, we reflect on how we can contribute to a fairer world by ensuring better access to resources, treating all people equally, and respecting the human rights and differences of others. Our call to action is to make sure everyone can participate in society fully, building alliances that strengthen our collective response to injustice.

As we meditate on these themes, we are reminded of the scripture in James 1:17-18, 21-22:

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of first fruits of His creatures. Therefore, lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."

This passage speaks to the power of love, a love that is stronger than any force, more valuable than any wealth, and that binds all creation together. Let us embrace this love as we strive to build a more just and compassionate world.

Leah Dempster
Assistant Principal - Mission and Identity

From the Careers Centre

A reminder to Year 12s that if you are planning on applying to QTAC to make sure you have responded to your emails and made a time to meet with Mrs Delahunty. For other Year 12s this can also be a good time to make a careers appointment to discuss your plans for transitioning out of school, whether this be to work, TAFE, University, the ADF, an apprenticeship or gap year opportunities.

Students have also recently been sent out information about apprenticeship and job opportunities that are coming up. A reminder to students to continue to check emails and follow up on any opportunities that they are interested in.

Students who have applied for Health HUB and TAFE at Schools courses, should start receiving more information about these enrolments in the next few weeks.

Please pay us a visit in the Careers Office at any time to talk all things work, study, resumes, work experience and more!

Louise Delahunty
Acting Career Development Practitioner

Arts and Performance

Saviour’s Sisters Shine at the 2024 Paul Morton Choral Music Festival  

On Monday, 26 August, the Saviour’s Sisters choir had the honour of participating in the 2024 Paul Morton Choral Festival, a heartfelt event held annually in memory of Paul Morton, a former Downlands student and passionate arts community member who tragically lost his life in a car accident at the age of 21. 

The choir delivered a stunning performance of “Rise Up,” featuring remarkable solos by Year 9 students Penny Sanders and Sophie Moore. Their courage and talent shone brightly on the Empire Theatre stage, impressing the audience and earning praise from conductors of other participating schools. The Saviour’s Sisters have made significant strides in their musical journey, and their performance was a testament to their hard work and dedication. 

Following their solo performance, the choir joined 500 students from schools across the region for a powerful massed choir rendition of “Umoja Tunaimba,” which translates to “United We Sing.” This collaborative performance highlighted the importance of unity and excellence in the arts within the Toowoomba region, providing students with a unique opportunity to experience and contribute to the vibrant arts community. 

Special thanks go to Downlands College for organising the festival, Tess Laird for her expert adjudication and conducting of the massed choir, Mrs Kylie Parker for her beautiful piano accompaniment, Mrs Narinder Loi for her invaluable assistance with student supervision, and Mrs. Jenni Potter for her continued dedication in conducting the Saviour’s Sisters choir. 

Evenings like this underscore the importance of collaboration between public and private schools, fostering a sense of community and shared excellence in the arts. The Saviour’s Sisters’ participation in the Paul Morton Choral Festival was a memorable and inspiring experience for all involved. 

Jennifer Potter
Program Leader Arts and Performance

Sports news

In preparation for Term 4 sports, the following jerseys and shorts need to be returned to the sports office as soon as possible.

• Touch Football - All Schools Toowoomba
• Monday football
• Red Lion Cup
• Outstanding rugby shorts

When the season is finished, please also return volleyball and netball dresses. 

The sports office has a list and photo evidence of students who have borrowed these items, please return them as soon as possible to avoid being charged for them. Please check your cupboards at home. 

Upcoming Term 4 sports include futsal, rugby 7's, social netball and Year 7 and 8 basketball. 

Stay tuned for a term wrap up in the next edition of the newsletter! 

Library News

Welcome

Wow, what a week! Book Week is over and it was a blast.  

As we wrap up our enchanting Book Week with the theme “Reading is Magic,” we reflect on the wonderful journey we’ve shared. This week has been a testament to the transformative power of books and the joy they bring into our lives. 

Our school library has been the heart of this celebration, where stories come alive and imaginations soar. It is the role and dedication of the teacher librarians to plan and implement a magical environment, fostering a love for reading and guiding students to discover new worlds within the pages of a book. 

Reading for pleasure is not just an enjoyable pastime; it’s a gateway to lifelong learning and personal growth. It enhances creativity, empathy, and critical thinking skills. We encourage all our students to continue exploring the vast universe of books, finding stories that inspire and captivate them. 

Thank you to everyone who participated and made this Book Week truly magical. Let’s keep the spirit of reading alive throughout the year! Happy Reading! 

What's happening in the library?

Book Week competitions

Competition: What is Mrs King today? 

Can you guess who Mrs King was each day? 

Our students had to submit their entries and all correct entries went into the draw, the winner was chosen by choosing one correct entry from all the entries. Congratulations and thanks to all those who entered, Mercy Shield Points were up for winning too.  

Wednesday 21 August Costume and Quiz Day  

A fantastic event was run by our Year 11 students this year. A couple of pictures of our wonderful Year 11s on the day – this definitely was not all of them involved: 

The afternoon was a wonderful display of the support our students gave both to our school, our library and our chosen charity Indigenous Literacy Foundation.  

Stay tuned for the next newsletter for a comprehensive overview of all the events and winners for book week celebrations. 

New books in the library! 

Non Fiction Collection

Fantasy Fiction

Love/Romance Fiction 

Senior Collection – for our Year 10-12 students 

Date claimers

End of Term 3 – resources due back / borrow for the holidays! 

Andrea King
Teacher Librarian