St Francis of Assisi College - Term 2 Week 6 - 2024

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Reconciliation Week

The theme for #NRW2024 is Now More than Ever.

Reconciliation Week Prayer

Loving God, you desire your people to be one. Guide us to acknowledge the pains of our nation’s past and to foster healing in word and in action.

Teach us to respect all cultures. Teach us to care for our land and waters. Help us to share justly the resources of this land.

Help us to bring about spiritual and social change to improve the quality of life for all groups in our communities, especially the disadvantaged.

Help young people to find true dignity and self-esteem by your Spirit.

May your power and love be the foundations on which we build our families, our communities, and our Nation, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen

I thank staff and students for their commitment to National Reconciliation Week. At the heart of reconciliation is the relationship between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. To foster positive race relations, our relationship must be grounded in a foundation of truth. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have long called for a comprehensive process of truth-telling about Australia’s colonial history. Our nation’s past is reflected in the present and will continue to play out in future unless we heal historical wounds. National Reconciliation Week, 27 May to 3 June, is a time for us all to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

For the work of generations past, and the benefit of generations future, we are invited to create a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all.

The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue. Reconciliation supporters are called to stand up to defend and uphold the rights of First Nations peoples. To call out racism wherever we encounter it, and to actively reinforce the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across this continent. Now more than ever, the work continues, whether it be in treaty making, in truth-telling, in understanding our history, in education, and in tackling racism. We need connection, respect, action, and change.

Whole School Wellbeing: LifeChanger Foundation

As part of our whole school wellbeing model, the College has partnered with the LifeChanger Foundation.  Currently the Foundation facilitates a progression of workshops embedded within our Pastoral Care Program, from years 7 to 9.  Scott Watters, CEO of LifeChanger, recently published the following article, some excellent insights and considerations for us all as significant adults in the lives of young people.

By Scot Watters:

Sometimes a statistic just hits you right between the eyes and crystalises a thought in such a succinct and powerful way it makes you stop, sit up in your chair, and think!

Ian Hickey from the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre recently announced that on average we spend 18 seconds a day in meaningful conversation with our kids! 18 seconds a day, investing in something so valuable. 18 seconds is nowhere near enough!

Human beings are designed and built for human relationships. It’s in and through these relationships we grow, feel safe, can challenge or question, or just share what’s on our mind. Simple stuff really, but the simple stuff needs to be prioritised and 18 seconds leaves us well short of that target.

There are three key ingredients to healthy interpersonal relationships.

The first is to UNDERSTAND. Take time to listen and see the person for who they are, their fears, insecurities, great qualities, blind spots. Open up to really see them, without judgement.

Secondly, VALIDATION. All of us want to feel like we matter, we mean something. When we value someone’s perspective, even when differing from our own, the by-product is self-worth.

The third element is KINDNESS. An old-fashioned and now underused word. Really caring and showing genuine concern, taking time from our own ‘race’ to gift it to someone else. Being present for someone.

Connection is an antidote to so many of the current challenges. Don’t underestimate your power to make a difference in someone’s life – a friend, a neighbour, a young person, a son, a daughter. Just a smile, a conversation or a simple hello has and will always be the most powerful way you can change a person’s life!

2025 Enrolment of Students

I am very pleased to see that the College is experiencing significant demand in relation to enrolments. Current projections indicate our two year 7 classes will reach capacity and parents planning to enrol their child are encouraged to do as soon as possible. 

To assist with our medium and long-term planning I encourage parents to lodge an enrolment form with the school as soon as they have decided to enrol their child at the school.

There remains places for enrolment open in years 8, 9,10 and 11 for 2024.

Should you wish to discuss this further please contact our College Registrar, Claire Smith (phone 8595 4500, or email claire.smith@assisi.catholic.edu.au).

Wellbeing Initiative – Classroom Pulse ‘Check-In’

This week all students in Catholic Schools in South Australia participated in an online Classroom Pulse Check-in.

The purpose of the Classroom Pulse Check In is to find out how students are feeling about their experience of school.

Students will each be asked some simple questions about:

Identity
Learning
Relationships
Belonging

Our aim is simply to “check in” with our students and measure how they are feeling.

Your child’s responses will help us to identify any potential social, emotional, or learning needs that they may have.

They will also be used by Catholic Education SA to help highlight trends across Catholic Schools that may need to be addressed.

Mr Nathan Hayes, Principal

National Reconciliation Week 

Last week marked Reconciliation Week, a time dedicated to deepening our understanding of diverse cultures and embracing unity. We were honoured to have Sam Mitchell from Sam Mitchell Training join us on Wednesday during Pastoral Care. Through engaging presentations and activities, he enriched our collective awareness and insight into fostering reconciliation across Australia's cultural landscape. His generous gesture of gifting us two books further enriches our journey towards enlightenment. 

Our students enthusiastically participated in the group tasks and activities designed to nurture harmonious relationships. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your invaluable contribution in dismantling barriers and supporting unity. 

Ignis Mass 

Wednesday saw the Ignis House unite in a special Mass alongside the Parish Community and Fr. Hau. The House Mass centred on the theme of God's love and our collective support for those in need during the Winter Appeal. We extend our appreciation to all the dedicated student volunteers, Fr. Hau, and everyone involved in organising this meaningful celebration. 

Walkathon 

Join us next week for our annual Walk-a-thon, a spirited event dedicated to raising both goods and cash donations for the St. Vincent de Paul Society. We extend a warm invitation to all families, friends, and sponsors to join us on Wednesday, June 12th, in supporting our students as they strive to meet their fundraising goals. 

During the Walk-a-thon, students will have 80 minutes to walk or run around the school track, aiming to complete as many laps as possible within the allotted time. Parents/family members are welcome to walk alongside their child(ren). 

Following the Walk-a-thon, we invite everyone to enjoy a morning tea starting at 10:30 am. Thank you to our Year 10 Food and Hospitality students, Mrs Burgess and Mrs Warner for preparing this. Our Year 10 students will also be running their coffee shop if you would like to purchase a freshly brewed coffee.  

In addition to the Walk-a-thon, students have the opportunity to contribute non-perishable items throughout the term towards the Vinnies Winter Appeal. Items such as soups, canned and packet foods, pasta, rice, as well as blankets and beanies, are greatly appreciated and will make a meaningful difference for those in need during this time of year. 

Prayer: Sacred Heart of Jesus 

Sacred Heart of Jesus,  
You pour out your love and mercy upon us, 
Your heart overflowing with compassion. 
We come to you with grateful hearts, 
Seeking refuge in your boundless love. 

Help us to open our hearts to receive your love, 
And to share it with others in our lives. 
May your Sacred Heart be our refuge and strength, 
Guiding us through life's challenges, 
And leading us closer to you each day. 

We entrust ourselves to your loving care, 
Knowing that in your heart, we find peace. 
Sacred Heart of Jesus, we love you. 
Amen. 

Mrs Sheridan Bonney, Assistant Principal, Religious Identity and Mission

Education Perfect Maths Competition 2024

From May 27 to May 31, all students at the College were able to participate in the ANZ Education Perfect Maths Competition where they were able to revise and deepen their understanding of a variety of mathematical concepts.

Our overall results were outstanding!

The following are some of our notable achievements:

• 1st overall in SA out of 59 schools
• 6th overall globally out of 1,535 schools
• 1st overall in the 101-250 students category out of 298 schools
• 4th overall in Australia out of 1,099 schools
• 1st in Australia for the 101-250 students category out of 201 schools
• 1st in SA for the 101-250 students category out of 11 schools

The student who achieved the highest score was Armann K with 9,145 points. This was an outstanding effort, placing him 36th in Australia.

Other notable achievements:

Elite Awards (7,000 points)

Armann K
Gurshaan L
Avreet K
Anant D

Emerald Awards (3,500 points)

Lily F
Heath K
Imogen N
Yvette K
Bethany B
Ashton C
Sebastian C

Gold Awards (2000 points)

Tejdeep S
Hamish P
Noah J
Ishmeet K
Riley T
Phoenix P
Gurtaj N
Tahlia S
Tayla H
Harry P

Silver Awards (1500 points)

Ekamjeet S
Sandra N
Will L-W
Justin P
Noah W
Greg E

There was also 28 students who gained a Bronze Award (700 points)  and 26 students who gained a Credit Award (350 points).

Congratulations to all students who achieved an award and to all the students who participated. Also, many thanks to the Maths Teachers for their support and encouragement of the students. The end result is a whole school effort. 

The award winners will be celebrated on assembly in week 10. We look forward to being involved in the competition again next year.

Mrs Natalie Meuret, Leader of Learning

St Vincent de Paul Walk-a-Thon and Winter Appeal

We invite family, friends, and sponsors to attend our Walk-a-thon on Wednesday 12th June to support our students in raising funds for the St Vincent de Paul Society. Join us to support our students from 9am-10:20am and stay for a delicious morning tea from 10:20am - 10:50am, made by our students. Gluten and dairy free options will be available!

All Houses are also tasked with trying to fill a bin with food donations! We are accepting soup cans, soup packets, spaghetti, baked beans, pasta, rice etc.

Students received their sponsorship forms and extra information early last week. Please contact your child’s home group teacher if you require any further information.

Last year we raised over $2000 in funds and had many boxes of food items to donate! Individual House tallies from 2023 can be seen below:

A reminder that if you have any concerns or questions or information to share regarding your child’s wellbeing or academics, please contact their home group teacher in the first instance via email or through the College phone number - (08) 8595 4500.

Mr Luke Cotter, Leader of Wellbeing

From Monday morning to Wednesday afternoon of Week 6, Mr. Sampson and Miss Gibbons took our Year 10 Outdoor Education class on a 2-night camp to Calperum Station. All students were required to travel by bike for the entire journey and carry all their clothing, sleeping, and food supplies for the entire three days. Students were involved in the preparation of route planning, creating packing lists, creating risk management plans and meal planning in the weeks leading up to the camp.

All students were challenged over the three days with bike riding fitness, staying warm in the cold weather, detoxing from digital devices and managing their communication and organisational skills. In addition to the bike riding and camp craft, students also learnt about the natural environment of Calperum Station, spending the full second day exploring the various waterways, flora, fauna, and trails.

We look forward to strengthening our partnership with Calperum Station into the future and using this fantastic environment within our curriculum.

Big thank you to Mr Sampson and Miss Gibbons for their support leading up to, and during the camp.

Year 7 HPE Rowing Practicals

Year 7’s have concluded their rowing unit in HPE. It was great to see all students participating in practical sessions and giving rowing a go!

A big thank you to our volunteers Claire Smith, Karen Trenwith and Ivan Smith. Without their support our practical sessions would not be possible.

Year 7 opportunity to support SFoAC Rowing Program

We are seeking expressions of interest from Year 7 students who would be interested in supporting our Rowing Program in the role as coxswain. Interested students could support our Learn to Row Squad (Year 8s), or our Senior and Junior Squad (Years 9/10). Senior and Junior Squad focus on competition, with commitments to attend weekend regattas through Terms 3 and 4 required in this role.

Coxswains play a vital role in our program. They have the responsibility of steering, motivating, and otherwise communicating with the team and leading them during the race. With this in mind, we are seeking students who have an interest in learning about the more technical side of rowing and have the confidence to support and drive a team of older peers. They will be working closely with coaches and teaching staff when carrying out this role. It is a great opportunity to gain an insight into the sport before potentially rowing themselves in future years.
 
Information has been sent to Year 7 families earlier this week via EdSmart. This must be completed by Tuesday 11 June to be considered. An application form will then be sent to interested students.

If this spikes an interest please email Rowing@assisi.catholic.edu.au for more information.

Term 2 Rowing and 2024/25 Rowing Season Information

Year 8 and 9 students have continued to participate in weekly training to learn more about rowing. They have progressed their skills on water and pushed themselves during on land sessions.

Families will receive an information guide during Week 7 which outlines how the Rowing Program will be structured this coming season. Applications will then be open for Year 8, 9 and 10 students.

Mrs Stephanie Turnbull, Rowing Program Coordinator, Rowing Coach & Learning Support

On Friday afternoon of Week 3 we held our 2024 SFoAC Cross Country Championship, based on our College grounds and parts of the Bookmark Creek trail area.

It was great to see students pushing themselves out of their comfort zones to get as many points for their houses as possible!

Congratulations to Aqua for taking out the Championships Shield! This completes a clean sweep for 2024, with them already taking home the Athletics and Swimming Carnival Championship Shields in Term 1.

A big thank you to all staff who assisted on the day, as well as Mr Prokopec and Mr Sampson for coordinating and setting up the course. 

Over All Results

Individual Results

We had an excellent team of cross country runners representing the College at yesterday's Oakbank State School Cross Country Championships. Well done to all of the runners and a big thank you to Miss Orchard, Mr Prok and Miss Newman for supporting the students on the day. 

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/YvYtDIpYLu4

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/tNqZWWOE2GI

2024 SFoAC Athletics Carnival was held in Term 1. One of our talented students, Eli Mc put together this wonderful video that captured the event highlights.  Well done Eli

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F7YUA_Bkw5g

A Select Committee on Endometriosis (established by the Parliament of South Australia) is travelling to Berri to take evidence for its inquiry on Wednesday 12 June following the information evening being hosted by the Berri Barmera District Health Advisory Council on 11 June.

The Committee is keen to hear the experiences of students who are suffering with endometriosis as well as their carers (including teachers, support people, and health workers). Endometriosis is an important area of inquiry, as the Committee has heard that 1 in 7 women and those identify as female at birth,  suffer with endometriosis. The extent of suffering varies but can be totally debilitating – significantly impacting these people’s lives and the lives of those around them.

The hearing will be open to the public, so anyone who is interested may attend and listen to the evidence provided.

The AYCC is Australia’s largest youth-led organisation, uplifting youth voices to work towards climate solutions. Young people are growing up with increasingly frequent climate disasters disrupting our lives. We’re facing a rising cost of living and an uncertain future. But we also have a fast growing movement of young people, all over the world, who’re determined to fight for a fairer and more just future. That’s why we are coming together for training weekends across the continent, to skill up the next generation of climate leaders.

Training weekends are a launchpad for young people to get involved with climate action. The training is open to any young person living in South Australia, whether they've been involved with the environment for years or are new to taking action on climate change. 

Youth Climate Training Weekend on 13 and 14 July is a great opportunity for students interested in the environment, social justice or building leadership and advocacy skills. 

WHAT IS IT?

Our big, bold 2-day training weekends are like no-other. We’re focussed on action - we’ll learn from each other and campaign experts on how to make change happen. We’ll have workshops, discussions on campaign skills, leadership development, tactic training. Participants will walk away with a clear plan about how they can make a difference in their community.

WHEN IS IT?
Over 2 days on Saturday the 13th & Sunday the 14th of July.  

WHERE IS IT?

North Adelaide Community Centre.

SCHOLARSHIPS

Travel scholarships are available for young people travelling from regional areas to attend. This means we can reimburse young people for travel costs and accommodation expenses. 

RSVP

Young people between the ages of 13 and 30 can register to attend here. 

AYCC would absolutely love students from SFoAC to be involved, and AYCC is also able to provide ongoing support for any students who want to start an action group at their school following on from the Training Weekend. AYCC has run similar trainings for thousands of young people over the past 10+ years, and many high school students have gone on to become powerful leaders in their community.

Crafty Studio – a relaxed tweens art hangouts - on Wednesdays!

Each session focuses on a different artistic medium. No prior experience needed. Only curiosity and bravery.

For ages 9 - 12 | Berri Community Centre (5 Kealley St, Berri) | No pick ups or drop offs available for these sessions.

June 12 - Painting

June 19 - Badges

June 26 - Animal Painting

July 3 - Bring Your Own Art

Booking link: https://www.trybooking.com/CRCOR 

Don't hestiate to contact the College office on 8595 4500 if you have any difficulty with the various mediums used by the College to commuicate with families. 

Saver Plus is a FREE 10-month matched savings and financial education program funded by ANZ and the Australian Government Department of Social Services and delivered by The Smith Family.

The program aims to help participants to learn how to better manage their money and develop long-term savings habits.

Saver Plus is available to anyone who is eligible across Australia.

Eligible participants learn money skills and receive up to $500 to help with their school expenses.

* 10 month program (commence at any time)

* Save $50 a month for 10 months and receive $500 towards educational costs

* Complete up to 10hrs of Virtual workshops called MoneyMinded (support provided)

* Must hold a Health Care Card/Pensioner Concession Card and meet the following eligibility.

* Income: Carers payment / child support are also considered with other eligibility.

More information at www.saverplus.org.au