St Benedict's Catholic College
Newsletter Friday 16 October 2020
PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
Welcome back to Term 4. I hope that the break was restful and relaxing and that you managed to stay cool through the very warm weather conditions over the long weekend. It was pleasing to see the smiling and happy faces on students as they returned this week ready to commence their final term of the academic year. I would ask that all parents and carers please ensure that students are dressed in the correct school uniform as they return to school. This includes for girls, their dress and skirt length on the knee and only one plain pair of earrings worn on the lower lobes. The earrings should be a plain stud or sleeper only and other body piercing is not allowed. Please note that the sports jacket must not be worn with the regular school uniform.
In addition, our COVID protocols remain in place. Students should ensure they use our hand santisers as they enter our classroom spaces and also wipe down furniture at the end of each lesson.
As we continue to navigate the challenges of COVID-19, the wellbeing of our students, staff and College community always comes first. As a Catholic College we are committed to keeping the members of our community—especially the most vulnerable—safe.
You can help ensure the safety of the College community by:
- Keeping your children home when they are unwell, even with very mild symptoms.
- Informing the school immediately if your child is self-isolating or undergoing testing, informing us of the result as soon as possible.
- Following sickness with flu-like symptoms, ensuring your child is free of symptoms AND can present a negative COVID-19 test, which must be sighted by the College, before they return to school.
Tell Them From Me Survey
This week our students, completed the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey as part of our whole school evaluation and planning process.
As we value the role of parents and carers within our school community we would greatly appreciate your feedback so, we are also inviting you to complete the Tell Them From Me (TTFM) Partners in Learning survey. The information you provide will be used to maintain our commitment to working together in partnership to further improve student learning and wellbeing at St Benedict’s Catholic College.
The survey is anonymous and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete. You are able to access the parent survey on your computer or mobile device by using this URL http://tellthemfromme.com/sbcc
There is a language option if required and to commence the survey please click on Begin Survey.
Warm regards
Kerrie Piatek
Principal
SCHOOL HALL UPDATE
The difference 3 weeks make, the roof is almost on!
FROM THE P & F
The P&F will be sending out a uniform survey in the coming weeks for students and families to complete and seek your valuable contribution.
FROM THE ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
Year 12 Mini Carnival
At the end of last term, Year 12 had their final week activities. On Tuesday, they displayed amazing House Spirit as they competed in challenges, for the last time, to gain points for their house. It was amazing to see the efforts that the students went to, to dress up in their house colours, and the House spirit that was entered into on the day was fantastic – well done to Year 12, Mr Turner, Mr McAteer and the Academic Care team for the efforts on the day.
Year 12 Final Day – graduation, liturgies and awards
Last term also saw the Year 12 Graduation ceremony, liturgy and prize giving. These were a little different this year given the circumstances we find ourselves in. The Liturgies in the morning were beautiful and an important way to celebrate the conclusion of their schooling. The Graduation ceremony after this was a great way to recognise the wonderful contributions of the Year 12 group over the course of the last 6 years. In particular, the recognition of our major award winners highlights the specific contributions of these students. Congratulations to all of Year 12 on their graduation.
HSC
The HSC starts next week. Good luck to all of our Year 12 students as they embark on this important stage of their school life – please know that you will be in all of our prayers.
Staff Development Day
This Monday, the staff were involved in a Staff Development Day based on assessment. This day allowed staff to look at assessment practices and how they can best support students in their learning and wellbeing.
Youth Ministry Leaders
This week also saw the Youth ministry leaders involved in a zoom day where they were able to engage in activities that strengthened their faith, and also provide them with skills in leading this important area of school life.
Mr David Costin
Assistant Principal
Reminders
- HSC Examinations will run from Tuesday 20 October - Wednesday 11 November, please note that during the exam period students cannot be called to the office during recess and lunch.
- Keep Covid safe: If your child is sick, keep them home. See below for Covid updates.
- Please do not use Disabled Parking Spaces without a Disability Sticker.
- Tuesday afternoon is Sports Day therefore, if you are collecting your child early they must have a note to remain at school.
- Please see update from our school uniform shop Ranier below.
Parents please take note
- Please do not enter details of Covid test for your child through Compass, please notify the office.
DATES TO REMEMBER
- Tuesday 20 October - Wednesday 11 November - HSC Examinations
- Tuesday 20 October - YAM program for Year 9 begins, information below
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF MISSION AND VISION
“It is my desire that, in this our time, by acknowledging the dignity of each human person, we can contribute to the rebirth of a universal aspiration to fraternity.” Pope Francis - Fratelli Tutti, 2020.
Welcome back to Term 4. During the holiday period Pope Francis released his newest encyclical, Fratelli Tutti, which outlines his views on fraternity and friendship. Whilst Pope Francis was in the process of writing this the Covid pandemic emerged around the world. He embraced this challenge including this into his letter showing that the global health emergency has helped demonstrate that “no one can face life in isolation” and that the time has truly come to “dream, then, as a single human family” in which we are “brothers and sisters all” (Par 8). This latest encyclical is a valuable reading that inspires all to to have a love of God and a love of Neighbour - much like our own patron Saint Benedict.
At the end of Term 3 we held our Graduation Liturgy for our Year 12 students. These liturgies were held in Academic Care Classes and were led by the class tutors and House Captains. The theme of this liturgy was to remind the Year 12 students that they are the salt and the light that Matthew writes about in his Gospel. We encouraged the students to remember their own value and the unique gifts and talents that they already have to offer the wider world as they set forth into the community. As they prepare to start their HSC Examinations, enter into work, TAFE or other education or employment opportunities, we wish them every success. Here is the reflection that was shared with the Year 12 class of 2020:
“How can we be salt and life for the world? What does this even mean? In our Gospel reading today we see an emphasis on the word ‘you’ - it serves as a timely reminder that we have an integral role in the world we live in and the message Matthew writes of, is for each of us. In Jesus’ day salt was a necessity that served many purposes, such as for preserving, seasoning and purifying. Light was also an expensive commodity - there were no switches to bring forth the light, rather you had to purchase expensive oil and carefully watch the flames did not cause a fire. The message that we receive from this passage is simple - each of us here are called to be the salt and the light for the world. Our school motto ‘Be my Light’, which each of you have worn on your uniform over your years at the College is a timely reminder for us of this specific calling. We are the light - a beacon for others and we are called to illuminate, preserve and influence throughout our time on this Earth.
As we prepare to enter into the next stages of life - whether this be in further education, work and apprenticeships, or even starting our own homes and families, you are called to remember that you are the salt and the light. This is not a difficult challenge, everything you need to take on the world and make a difference is already within you. Our readings today remind us of this. In Paul’s letter to the Romans we are reminded that we have the capacity to love one another, to be genuine, to show honour and integrity and to always extend hospitality.
So Year 12, take the Benedictine virtues with you that you have developed and espouse them on your journey - be people of love, compassion, peace, hospitality, obedience and humility. Remember that there is always something to strive for and nothing to run from. And finally Year 12, as you leave us today, always listen with the ear of your heart. May God always keep you and bless you in all you do.”
Social Justice Update
The launch of World Mission Month this October has begun with Pope Francis asking us to reflect on the words of Isaiah, Isaiah: “Here am I, send me” (6:8). For the Extraordinary Missionary Month, the Holy Father has chosen the theme ‘Baptised and Sent: The Church of Christ on a Mission in the World’.
As a College, led by our Year 11 students, we will hear the call and help support this wonderful world wide initiative. As a College we will be supporting the Catholic Mission Church Appeal highlighting the important work of the Church in Cambodia, which aims to reach out to those who have been affected by disability, and give them hope and support to live a fulfilling life. This week the appeal shares the story of Chen, a landmine survivor who lost both his legs when he was 16 years old.
Chen has been given the care and opportunity to turn this tragic event into a positive outcome through the support of the Arrupe Centre in the Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang in north-western Cambodia. The Arrupe Centre urgently needs support to continue providing young people like Chen with opportunities so they can live a full and dignified life. We too, are called to help support crucial mission work like this in Cambodia and around the world. More details on this will be sent out during the month of October.
Work of the Week
This week, Mr Agoo has nominated Georgia W. of 7 Hildegard for her brochure which she has produced on the Rosary as an important Catholic Prayer. In her brochure she has shown a great understanding of the importance of the Rosary as a Marian devotion to Catholics and has drawn some fitting images to reflect the information.
Well done Georgia, you have earned 10 bonus points for Hildegard!
God Bless;
Mrs Tarnya Grana
Acting Director of Mission and Vision
YEAR 8 DEBATING TEAM
Today was the grand final debate and while we were runners up our students did us proud.
The question was that `Schools should teach current affairs rather than history'.
Grace was strong in her opening arguments of the affirmative team proposing a fantastic and workable model.
Lara added flair to our arguments.
Summer-Lilly was a standout with her unassuming nature and clear rebuttal.
And Caelan was fantastic in his support of the other members of the team.
Cody from year 7 was a fantastic chairman and all five students are a credit to our school.
Mrs M Mizzi
Teacher in charge
YEAR 7 LITERACY BOOTCAMP
Literacy Boot Camp Experience~ By Oliver C
In my opinion, literacy boot camp is a great activity for Year 7. It has helped me in my revision for writing and punctuation. A lot of students forget many easy spelling errors and rules, and literacy boot camp helps us remember them. I believe that literacy boot camp at St. Benedicts Catholic College is a great way to help students in Year 7 to revise on our writing and punctuation. I had a great experience with literacy boot camp.
CAPA NEWS
We are pleased with the new changes to government regulations that allows St Benedict to have Dance Troupe and Band return for our students.
Dance Troupe runs on a Tuesday morning at 7:30am. Currently the class is full but if you are interested please let Mrs Koryzma know and you will be placed on the waiting list. Band is running on Tuesdays during sport with Mr O’Donnell with a new acoustic vibe.
This is the 58th year of the Fisher's Ghost Art Prize run by the Campbelltown Arts Centre. This prize is open to all ages including Primary and Secondary students. Judges of the student prize will select seven of the best artworks as winners with these students receiving vouchers to be used in order to push their artistic ability.
This year, St Benedict's has 3 entrants, Benjamin W, Sienna R and Caitlin Q. We wish you the best of luck for your entry and we would also like to congratulate you for taking part in such a huge art prize.
The exhibition opens from 31 October 2020 to 11 December 2020 in Campbelltown Arts Centre.
Isabelle B has been working together with Mr O’Donnell to record and film her HSC program for Encore nomination for 2021.
Faith E and Isabelle B, our drama HSC nominees, have filmed and recorded their HSC programs for the Onstage 2021.
We wish them both the very best! we are proud of you!
Thanks
Jenny Koryzma
CAPA Coordinator
SPORTS NEWS
Yours in Sport
Mrs Ashleigh Durrant
Sport Coordinator
Youth Ministry Update
Where Do You See God Competition
At the end of Term 3, the College ran a competition entitled “Where do you See God?” Both students and staff were encouraged to submit an image of where they see God in their lives. This could have been through their family, nature and through human works.
The competition has been judged and the winners will be announced at the next College assembly. Here is a sneak peak of some of the amazing entries.
2020 Youth Ministry Leaders Next Level Leadership Day
On Thursday the current Youth Ministry leaders participated in a Diocesan wide leadership day. The day focused on how the students can extend their leadership skills as they go into year 12 and further on in their lives. Their main takeaways for the day were the following:
Leaders know where they are going
Leaders know who they are and who they want to surround themselves with
To be courageous
To inspire others
To empower others through their actions
To put love at the centre of all they do.
Thank you to our YMLs and CYMW for a wonderful day!
ABSENCES
We ask Parents/Carers to only report all day absences via COMPASS, part day absences should be reported to the office via phone on 4631 5300 or email to info@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au
If a student is having an absence of 3 days or more, a request should be sent to the Principal via email to info@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au
If a student is having an absence of 10 days or more an Application for Extended Leave should be completed and submitted to the office with a copy of the students itinerary, if the absence is within Australia or a copy of flight tickets if the extended leave is to be outside Australia. A copy of the Application for Extended Leave can be found here .
FIRST AID NOTICE
Given the presence of COVID-19 coupled with the commencement of the influenza (flu) season, our school has an important responsibility to provide a safe environment for students and staff. Your child should not attend school if they are showing any flu like symptoms.
If a student is sent to the office with flu like symptoms we will place them in isolation and call their parents to organise for them to be collected as soon as possible.
Your support in keeping our school healthy and safe is appreciated.
LOST & FOUND
We have a number of unmarked clothing items, jewellery, reading glasses and containers which would like to be returned to their owners. Please ask your child/ren to come to the office if they may have lost one of these items.
We ask parents to check that all their child/rens items are marked clearly with their name in permanent marker.
Any items not collected will be given to the P & F Clothing Pool at the end of Term 3.
UPDATE FROM RANIER SCHOOL UNIFORM SHOP
Ranier are excited to announce a new and improved online shop platform starting in Term 4. In addition to the existing features that have served families well, we have introduced new features to improve your user experience. Our website is suitable for use on all mobile devices including iPads, tablets and mobile phones.
Families will be able to:
· View images and prices of all products on one page
· Find information on shop opening hours and location
· View school uniform policy
· Easily book appointments for fittings
· View status and history of purchases
· Choose click and collect or home delivery
With the new changes, we do require all parents to re-register with their email. No student number or school password will be necessary.
All uniform bookings made will be recorded in the new website, there is no need for re-booking.
If you have any issues with registration, please contact our Customer Support on 02 8337 7290.
Ranier Shop guidelines – Covid-19
- No more than 1 family in the store at a time (or allowing 1.5m gap)
- Staff to remain behind the counter when customers are present
- Any customer displaying any illness will be requested to leave the store and purchase online or by phone
- Counter will be disinfected with spray and paper towel (or disposable wipe) throughout the day
- Tap and go payments are encouraged
- Hand sanitiser is available at all times for customers.
- Any returned stock (including fitting room returns) is to be placed on the counter by the customer.
P & F CLOTHING POOL
Please contact the P&F via pandf@sbccdow.catholic.edu.au with a list of your requirements and a contact telephone number and Tracey will contact you with availability.
RESOURCES FOR MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH IN OCTOBER 2020 ‘Tune In
CatholicCare now offers the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) in the Macarthur region, helping seniors to access entry-level support services to live independently and safely at home.
If your grandparents, parent(s) or anyone you know requires aged care assistance at home, please ask them to call 4628 0044 and ask for Melissa or Colleen.