At our place, the centre of our home has always been the dining table. When our kids were little, we bought a large second-hand round timber table with heavy chairs. We had that table for decades. It had scratches everywhere, fork marks, countless spills, and many chips. It also held collective memory for us of our kids’ childhoods and the many hours of lively conversation and laughter with family and friends.

One of the most important things we can do as family is to sit down together to share a meal. Eating together is not just about the function of consuming food, it is about sharing time and space with each other. It is about the conversation that takes place at the dinner table. I understand that households are busy and that this is not always possible, but the more often the mealtime can be shared, the benefits for young people are immensely powerful.

There are many households in the world now where meals are almost never taken together. Or, conversely, we have all probably seen this scene where we are at the same table, but might as well be in different buildings altogether: picture the restaurant where parents are on their phones, the kid in the high chair has the iPad or phone propped up so they can watch a cartoon and the rest of the kids are likewise in their own world on one device or another.  I often lament that it seems like a waste of time and money going out “together” when I see this unfold.

Despite being more connected through the internet than ever, as humans, we have never felt lonelier. One way to combat this is to agree as a family, to sacrosanct time at the dinner table. This is where we can ask open-ended questions, particularly of our teenagers about their day, with whom they interacted, and how they feel about certain things. If all we get is a curt, one syllable answer, then the next step is to ask more specific questions about the three best things that have happened today, two things they might have been surprised by, one person they talked to, and what they gleaned from that person. One of my favourites used to be to ask our children for three things for which they have been grateful. An easy way to kill a conversation with some teens is to ask the blanket “how was school today?”

Being together for a meal brings natural conversation, openness to new ideas, sometimes arguments and disagreements, and always the opportunity to learn from each other. For younger children, merely being spoken to, and listening to language, increases functional vocabulary. It also helps children learn how to craft conversation, and what constitutes good conversation, turn taking, listening, and all in a social setting.

As we approach the most holy of seasons in our Christian calendar, I am reminded of the Last Supper. Perhaps this is not the neatest of segues here, but I think about the breaking of the bread, and the symbolism of this last shared meal with his friends, where Jesus instituted the Mass, in communion with the others at the table. When we gather to remember this sacred meal and participate in it with Jesus each Sunday, we do so as a memorial of Christ, and to remember the sacrifice that he made for all humanity, so that we might have life. Jesus did this because of his love for all of us, as we so often do with and for each other. Every meal with our families is a sacred time that we share. It is never wasted time, and it is never just about the food.

May your family tables be raucous, loud, full of laughter and robust conversation and be signs and symbols of your love of one another, and the love that we share in Jesus. 

Athletics Carnival

I am pleased to report that we had a better attendance at the Athletics carnival last week, however, having 226 students absent on the day is still not anywhere near where I would expect attendance to be at a school event. Seventy-two of these absences were unexplained. I am asking and indeed imploring all parents to work with us in creating the expectation with our young people (your children) that all school days count, and carnivals and celebration days are not an excuse for a day off. Again, if we are to lift school spirit and pride, we find it hard to do so when 25% of our school population chooses not to be there.

I offer my thanks to the PE faculty and all staff for their hard work in making the day a success.

Dr Craig Wattam
Principal 

Health and Physical Education is an integrated area of study that provides for the intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development of students. It involves students learning about and practising ways of maintaining active, healthy lifestyles and enhancing movement potential and appreciation of movement in their lives.

I read a recent article from Linda Stade “How to teach your child to be a perfect failure”. Linda is an education writer, speaker, and consultant who works with parents and teachers to help grow happy, healthy children who thrive on learning. Linda has produced interesting articles about successful teaching and learning and connecting with students.

The article has resonated with me, as I have witnessed students questioning their ability to challenge themselves in class due to fear of failing, or in their words, looking and feeling silly, not being able to master the skill or simply, it is not in their interest. Fear of failing can be humiliating for students and when we look up the definition of failure, we see such words as “doomed”, “unsuccessful” and, “lack of success”. However, when we look at the word failure in Health and Physical Education and Sports, we see it as offering invaluable insights into resilience, perseverance, and personal growth. 

In her article, Linda Stade explores the transformative potential of failure and its role in shaping our lives. While failure is often viewed through a negative lens, Stade challenges us to reframe our perception, recognising it as a natural and essential aspect of the learning process. Health and Physical Education provides a unique platform for students to grapple with failure in a supportive and nurturing environment. Whether it is mastering a new skill, improving fitness levels, or competing in team sports, students inevitably encounter obstacles and challenges along the way. However, it is through these challenges that they learn resilience, determination, and the importance of perseverance.

Consider a student struggling to perfect a tennis serve. Despite the time spent in class practising, and guidance from their teacher, they continue to fall short of their desired outcome. In this scenario, failure is not indicative of inadequacy but rather an opportunity for growth. By analysing their technique, seeking feedback, and applying persistent effort in class, the student learns valuable lessons in resilience and problem solving; skills that extend far beyond the tennis court.

In the realm of Health Education, failure takes on a different dimension, often manifesting as personal setbacks in adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Whether it is struggling to maintain a balanced diet, managing stress and anxiety, understanding relationships and diversity, students confront a number of challenges.  It is through these setbacks that they learn the importance of self-compassion, perseverance and the willingness to adapt and develop.

In conclusion, failure is not a reflection of our own shortcomings, but rather a testament to our capacity for growth and resilience. In Health and Physical Education, challenges serve as the catalyst for personal transformation, empowering students to overcome obstacles and thrive in the face of adversity.

The start of the year has been busy in the Health and Physical Education Field with all students involving themselves in a variety of physical activities and Health subjects.

Years 7 & 8 - Athletics Galore for Years 7 & 8 Students!

Years 7 & 8 students have kickstarted their Physical Education journey, engaging in various activities. They have delved deeply into the world of athletics, mastering the skills and techniques of both field and track. From sprinting to long jumping, they have been honing their abilities and fostering a spirit of teamwork and competition, especially leading into the Athletics Carnival.

Year 9

For practical lessons our Year 9 cohort has been immersed in the dynamic realm of striking and fielding sports and Court Sports. Softball, Soccer, and Golf have been the highlights, offering students opportunities to refine their coordination, strategic skills, and teamwork. The unit of Court Sports has allowed students to explore the intricacies of Badminton, Tchouck ball, and Netball. Students have been discovering new skills and tactics while fostering and embracing the varied challenges with enthusiasm.

Year 10

Year 10 students have embarked on sporting journeys filled with diversity, exploring an array of activities designed to challenge and inspire. Striking and fielding sports continue with Golf and Flag Footy (NFL), providing students with opportunities to refine their techniques and strategies. Meanwhile, the introduction of Sofcrosse and Tennis/Pickleball adds a new dimension to their sporting repertoire. From the fast-paced action of Volleyball to the strategic gameplay of Basketball and European Handball, students are embracing the challenges and joys of these dynamic sports, fostering teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship along the way.

Year 9 & 10 Health:

In tandem with their physical activities, Years 9 & 10 students have been delving into the vital realm of health education. Year 9 students have been focusing on Nutrition & Health, understanding the importance of balanced diets and healthy lifestyle choices. Meanwhile, Year 10 students have been gearing up for the road ahead with Road Ready sessions, equipping themselves with essential knowledge for safe and responsible driving.

Kym Darmody
LLWB – PDHPE/Sport & Wellbeing
Maathai House

As we begin planning for 2025 and beyond, we would like to invite the voices and opinions of our parent body in the areas of curriculum delivery, reading programs and libraries.

Initially, we are going to collect these through the completion of a community survey. All families are welcome to complete this survey and it can be accessed by clicking on the link below. The survey is voluntary and all answers will be de-identified.

We value your opinion and thank you for filling out this survey.

Mrs Kathleen Garvie
Assistant Principal -Learning
Kennedy and Ferré Houses

In week 5 our courageous year 7 campers travelled to Tathra for Year 7 Camp. Students spent two nights away, one in a cabin and the other in a tent. Students engaged in a variety of activities to get to know their new school mates in their House groups and build their relationships and teamwork skills. The camp also built students’ resilience, placing students well outside their comfort zone - away from home and without technology! Great work team!  

Students took part in several fun outdoor activities such as bushwalking, surf safety and swimming, team building activities, raft building, mini golf, and the very popular flying fox. It was great to see students experiencing the beach, sand, and outdoors with their peers and having a laugh along the way. As an educator, it is always amazing to provide students with opportunities to be themselves, make new friends, and push themselves to attempt new experiences.

Students were encouraged to learn new skills and practise the art of resilience through a range of personal and team challenges. I thank and commend the Year 7 students for their excited approach and positive attitude while on camp and the way they represented St John Paul II College.

Thanks to all of the teachers: Mr Caldow, Ms Goggin, Ms Brak, Mr Taylor, Mr Charter, Ms Allan, Mr McDonnell, Ms Marot, Ms Burt, Mr Maloney, Ms Combes, and Mr Igoe-Taylor, who went above and beyond in giving up their time volunteering to supervise students on camp and getting involved in the activities.  

Mrs Katie Siviour
Leader of Learning and Wellbeing
Drexel House– Year 7

During Semester One – all Year 10 students will have the opportunity to complete the JPC Drivers Education program through our PE/Health classes. During this time they will complete the 10 hour Road Ready course and have the opportunity to sit the Road Rules knowledge test. If successful – students can gain their Learners licence as soon as they turn 15 and 9 months. The school has already put a large cohort through and here are two of our first students to get their L’s through school.

Ayra A & Zach H

Mr Simon Abbott
PDHPE Department
Leader Wellbeing Kennedy House
JPC Child Safe Advocate representative

A busy start to the year with both the major carnivals occurring in Term 1. 

Swimming

Our first major event, saw us move the Swimming Carnival from Dickson Pool to the Civic Olympic Pool on Friday 16 February. The pool was full of colour, flare and excitement as students from all Houses gathered for the annual Swimming Carnival and the competitive spirit was in full view. This year's themes saw an array of imaginative costumes with students dressing up as ‘tradies’, knights, and purple royals. Amongst the spirited competition, the coveted title of Swimming Championship House was claimed by Van Thuan, while their enthusiasm also earned them the Swimming Spirit House Cup.

AGE CHAMPIONS - SWIMMING

Athletics: A Thrilling Venture at AIS Track and Field

Athletics reached new heights as students showcased their speed and skill at the prestigious AIS track and field venue. Despite the location change, the competitive spirit burned bright, with Kennedy emerging as the triumphant House. In a historic moment, Drexel and Kennedy shared the limelight as joint Spirit House winners, the first time in our school's history we have had joint winners.

We also saw the first JPC bolt run which featured the fastest 8 students in the College.

Congratulations to the following students:

1. Sioeli H, Yr 7, Ferré
2. Tyler T - Yr 12, Van Thuan
3. Zane V - Yr 9, Van Thuan
4. Isaiah V - Yr 8, Mathieu
5. Mia M - Yr 9, Kennedy
6. Cecilia A - Yr 9, Mathieu

PB – 12 Year 100m - Sioeli H

AGE CHAMPIONS - ATHLETICS

ACT School Tennis Championships

Our first sporting gala day was the ACT School Tennis Championships. Two outstanding students, Sean Blakely-Kidd and Finnley Blaik, demonstrated their prowess on the court. Sean's exceptional performance saw him reaching the finals of the constellation bracket, and Finnley making it to the third round, showcasing their dedication and skill.

ASC Touch

The field was set for an exhilarating display of athleticism as five teams competed in the fiercely contested ASC Touch Football tournament. Held at the Deakin playing fields, the 5 teams played with passion and teamwork in each game. It was great to see that we continue to build the sport at JPC and continue to match the competitive spirit across all sports with all teams making the playoffs, showing that we are improving each year.

ACT Waterpolo Gala Day

The College Waterpolo team went out to represent JPC in the Mixed College Day, held at CISAC Pool. Eight students rose to the challenge of competing in several games with only one substitute player. The team did not win any games but they won a lot of admiration from the other teams and their coaches and supporters with unfailing good humour and genuine congratulations to all the winning teams after each game. The College would also like to thank Mr Mark Miller who has supported Mrs Kinnane at a number of these days and this was his final one having a child at JPC.

Sporting Achievements

If your child is achieving in sports in the community, please let us know.

We love to share our students’ sporting achievements. 

WHO ARE WE? – JPC!!!!!

REMINDER

Aerosol sprays at JPC are NOT permitted.

There are students and staff who are allergic to the particles that are released into the air and this can cause respiratory discomfort like Asthma.

In some cases, this could be life threatening.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Parish Newsletter

For the latest news Click here or you can view it on the Parish App or visit the website below.

A roundtable on Sacramental Initiation will be held on 21 March 2024. This roundtable is being live-streamed so parish communities can participate.

This is a great opportunity to work with your local parish in preparation for the Assembly in October.