St John Paul II College Nicholls
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1021 Gungahlin Dr
Nicholls ACT 2913
Subscribe: https://sjpcnicholls.schoolzineplus.com/subscribe

Email: office.jpc@cg.catholic.edu.au
Phone: 02 6163 4800

Message from the Assistant Principal – Teaching & Learning

Last week, I was speaking with a Year 12 student about their studies. They mentioned that it was a busy and stressful time of term, which is true—schools naturally follow a pattern of quiet periods and intense assessment periods.

Over the years, I have noticed that students who plan effectively tend to achieve their goals more successfully. I recall a particular student who was completing an Australian School-Based Apprenticeship (ASBA) while maintaining strong academic results. His exceptional planning skills enabled him to balance both commitments effectively.

The habits we develop in school often follow us into our work life, making planning an essential skill. The benefits of planning include reduced stress, improved time management, increased focus, and greater productivity. But if planning is so beneficial, why do students often struggle with it?

There could be many reasons, including:

  • Feeling overwhelmed by the number of tasks.
  • Lack of motivation or procrastination.
  • Distractions from technology.
  • Not knowing how to plan effectively.
  • Thinking planning is time-consuming or unnecessary.

Practical Ways to Support Planning at Home:

Create a Weekly Schedule as a Family

  • Set aside time each week to plan homework, assignments, sports, work, and social activities.
  • This promotes balance and keeps everyone on the same page.

Print Out an Assessment Calendar

  • Having due dates visible at home helps students stay organised.
  • Students can access all assessment dates via the Canvas Calendar.

Focus on Long-Term Goals

  • Families set academic and personal goals with PC teachers at the start of the year.
  • Keeping these visible at home or in lockers serves as motivation.

Use the College Diary

  • Every student has a school diary—this is a great planning tool.
  • Students should bring their diary home daily, helping track assignments, deadlines, and key dates.

As we approach the midpoint of the term, it is a great time to refocus and plan ahead. Remember, it is never too late to start planning or to revisit big-picture goals set at the start of the year.

What’s Been Happening at JPC?

NAPLAN Complete for 2025!

We are proud of our Year 7 and Year 9 students who completed their NAPLAN assessments last week, finishing with numeracy on the final day. Each student approached the exams with a positive attitude, resilience, and commitment. A big thank you to Sean Shibutare and all staff involved in facilitating NAPLAN.

Athletics Carnival Success

Our annual Athletics Carnival was held last Thursday at the AIS Running Track. Students competed with enthusiasm and sportsmanship in various track and field events. The day was filled with house spirit and community connection. Congratulations to all participants, and a special thank you to Mrs Darmody and the PE staff for organising the event!

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Harmony Day Celebrations

Last Friday, we celebrated Harmony Day, a special occasion promoting unity and diversity. This day serves as a reminder of how our community is enriched by cultural diversity. A heartfelt thank you to all students who wore traditional dress and shared this important part of their heritage with us.

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Open Events for 2026 Enrolments

Last Thursday night, we hosted our first Open Event for the 2026 enrolment period—a Talk and Tour of the school. The event was well-attended, with over 130 people. Prospective students and families had the opportunity to explore our facilities and meet staff. This was the first of several upcoming events, all of which can be found https://www.jpc.act.edu.au/open-events 

Invitation: JPC Library Opening

We warmly invite all JPC parents to attend the official opening of the JPC College Library on Tuesday, 8 April (Week 10). RSVP is essential—please see the attached invitation in this newsletter for details.

Kathleen Garvie
Assistant Principal – Teaching and Learning