Pastoral Care Program - Xavier Catholic College

Xavier Catholic College
ACT JUSTLY
2 Redford Drive, Skennars Head
Phone: (02) 6687 6484
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: 8:00am – 4:00pm
Love God
Love Others
Love Yourself
Term 3: Newsletter No. 12 – 12th August, 2016
PO Box 1310, Ballina NSW 2478
Facsimile: (02) 6687 6828
Website: www.xavierlism.catholic.edu.au
Uniform Shop: 6687 6940 (Tuesdays only)
Dear Parents, Students and Staff,
Reflection:
With the learned capacity
to recognise the gifts of grace,
we will find that our journey is guided
by the invisible hand and unimaginable
wisdom of God with infinitely greater
accuracy than that of which our
unaided conscious will is capable.
M. Scott Peck - The Road Less Travelled
“As in the daytime there is no star in the sky warmer and brighter than the sun,
likewise there is no competition greater than the Olympic Games”
Pinda,Greek Lyric Poet 5th Century B.C.
Like for most people, the focus since the opening ceremony last Saturday, and going into next week has been and
will be on the Rio Olympics. I am either watching events live on TV, listening to radio broadcasts and
commentaries, reading about it in the papers or simply discussing the games with whoever I happen to be with at
the time, albeit friend or stranger. However, during the first week of the games, certain aspects really struck a chord
with me. I suppose the most obvious thing was the uniting feature of the games. The games brought people together
in one mighty “celebration of humanity”, something we really need in light of the terrible atrocities that have
occurred throughout the world in recent times. Another important feature is the level of sportsmanship amongst the
athletes. It is something to behold and is a real lesson for all aspiring sports stars.
However, though, the two most striking aspects for me have been the way in which some of the athletes, both of
high profile as well as those little known, acknowledged their families and their God. Many athletes are attributing
their success to the great support of their families and went as far as dedicating their achievements to them. Some
athletes also acknowledged their God prior to and after their events by making the “Sign Of The Cross”, kissing a
religious medal or falling to their knees giving thanks to God. These athletes are real role models to all of us
through the way in which they express acknowledgment of the two most important aspects of our lives, our
families and our faith, for with these our journey through life is made a little easier.
Reflection Days and Retreats
Retreats and Reflection Days are considered to be an important and essential component of our Religious
Education curriculum and thus we place a great deal of emphasis on them. It is a time where we give students the
opportunity to just step out of their current situations and take a look at their lives, and their relationships with
friends, family and God.
Over the last two weeks, both our Year 9 students and our Year 10 students were given the opportunity to
experience this. Year 9 had a reflection day facilitated by Chris Doyle, a very charismatic presenter who has been a
regular at Xavier for a number of years. Speaking to students at the end of their reflection day, it was obvious that
they all found the day very rewarding. Year 10 took part in a two day retreat experience with the theme, “Find God
in all things”, facilitated by our Leader of Evangelisation, Mr David Eyles who was assisted by Deacon Vitalis and
staff. They also had presenters from “Real Talk” deliver a very powerful message regarding self-worth, self-image
and relationships. Again, students came away from this experience in a very positive frame of mind. I would like
to congratulate all Year 9 and Year 10 for their high level of participation and cooperation making these
experiences outstanding successes.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the teachers who accompanied our students during these two
experiences. I extend a special word of thanks to Mr David Eyles who organised both events.
…2/
Xavier Catholic College
ACT JUSTLY
The Story of St Ignatius of Loyola, St Francis Xavier and the Early Jesuits (cont…)
Ignatius – Study in Paris: Ignatius began his study of philosophy at Montaigu College but soon ran out of money.
On the advice of a friend, he undertook the first of three begging journeys to Flanders. These journeys provided
sufficient funds for him to study undisturbed once back in Paris. By 1535, Ignatius had completed his studies in
both philosophy and theology, receiving the title magister.
While studying, Ignatius had continued to give the spiritual exercises. Drawn by his charism, fellow students were
motivated to make the spiritual exercises and to adopt the ideals that inspired him. Among the first young men to
accept the challenge presented to them by Ignatius, were Peter Faber and Francis Xavier. As time passed, more
men joined Ignatius, and the company grew in their attachment to Jesus.
Wanting to formalise their commitment, on 15th August 1534, Ignatius and six companions made vows of chastity
and poverty and offered themselves in obedience to the pope, believing that he would know the places of greatest
need to which they might go in service to the greater glory of God.
At this point, Ignatius’ health failed him. His doctors and friends urged him to return to Spain to regain his strength.
In the meantime, the companions would finish their theological studies and by 1537 they would all gather in
Venice in order to embark on their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
Lismore Diocese Parent Assembly Parent Education Evening Tuesday, 16th August
As mentioned in previous newsletters, the Lismore Diocese Parent Assembly is hosting a parent education evening
at Xavier Catholic College next Tuesday, 16th August, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. There will be two presentations both very important issues for parents today: “Your Child On Social Media” and “How to help your child cope
with their fears”. I encourage you to seriously consider attending this event. Please see flyer in this issue.
God Bless,
Inside this Issue:
 Pastoral Care Program
 Seasons for Growth
 World Youth Day
 Literacy & Numeracy
(volunteers needed)
Michael Vella
Principal
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
WEEK 5
WEEK 6
SCIENCE WEEK
Tuesday, 16th August (Day 2)
Year 9 HSIE Excursion
Parent Education Evening 6.30pm – Magis Centre
Tuesday, 23rd August (Day 7)
Year 11 Brainstorm Production Wired (Periods 1&2)
Wednesday, 17th August (Day 3)
Year 12 EES Excursion, Byron Bay & Lake Ainsworth
Year 10 HSIE Excursion
Thursday, 18th August (Day 4)
Diocesan Athletics Carnival – Coffs Harbour
CYSMA Shine Gathering
Friday, 19th August (Day 5)
Year 11 Debating – Murwillumbah
CYSMA Shine Gathering
Wednesday, 24th August (Day 8)
Years 7 &8 NRCC AFL Competition
Friday, 26th August (Day 10)
Year 7 HSIE Excursion
UNIFORM SHOP
TUESDAYS ONLY
8:00-11:45am & 3:00-5:30pm
Phone: 6687 6940
Xavier Catholic College
Love God
Catechesis and Evangelisation
Mr David Eyles – Leader of School Evangelisation
St Francis Xavier Parish, Ballina
Adjacent Parish Mass Times
Website: www.sfxballina.org.au
St Patrick’s Parish, Wardell
Mass 5:00pm Sunday
Local Mass Times
St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Ballina
Vigil 6:00pm Saturday
9:00am Sunday
Holy Family Catholic Church, Lennox Head
7:30am Sunday
Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Alstonville
Saturday Vigil Mass 6:00pm
Sunday 8:30am
Byron Bay/Bangalow – Holy Spirit Parish
Saturday Vigil Mass St Finbarr’s Byron Bay 6:00pm
Sunday Mass St John's Mullumbimby 8:00am
Sunday Mass St Kevin’s Bangalow 9:30am
Xavier Catholic College
Love Others
Pastoral Care Program
Mr Paul Reidy – Leader of Student Welfare
Habits & Manners
Father Richard Leonard spoke this week and was very inspirational. A couple of things resonated with what I have
been speaking to students about. I often speak to students who are struggling with all sorts of things, wellbeing,
discipline incidents etc. I speak about the importance of good habits.
One of the statistics Father Richard quoted was that, from 10pm to 1am is the greatest internet usage. Something
that I am concerned about is regular sleep habits. Sleep is so important for well-being. If we want to do our best we
need to have a good regular sleep pattern. Nearly all I read about poor mental health, anxiety etc says that poor
sleep is a major factor.
The second thing that resonated was manners. It is quite common that my Year 11 class are saying thank you as
they leave. This is wonderful and I often feel guilty, because my mind has already moved onto the next thing. That
is not an excuse. They are being more polite than me and I take note of that and try and make that a habit of mine.
Manners are for all of us in our interactions with each other, friends, peers, teachers and our parents. It says a lot
about us. Also I believe that we get what we give. If we are positive and polite that will come back to us and that
makes us better as a community.
Bottom line, be good to each other and be good to yourself.
Year 12 Post Trials
The Year 12 students will come back after trials to normal lessons. It is an important time to review their trial
results and then prepare for their final HSC examinations. Attendance and uniform requirements during these last
few weeks of their high school education are the same as usual. We ask that parents support us on these matters.
Pastoral Care Program
Students have been participating in the Pastoral Care\Wellbeing program throughout the year. The planner is an
important tool to assist with this. Please have a conversation with your child about the focus of the week or browse
through the planner to see the areas that are covered. Students will be more enthused at different times with
different subjects depending upon their current state of play. I firmly believe that the skills introduced will be a part
of building resilience over the longer term. Any support you can offer is appreciated.
Week Focus
Character Strength
3
Meaning & Purpose
Developing meaningful speaking presentations
Zest
Vitality; enthusiasm; vigor; energy; feeling alive and activated.
4
Positive Engagement
Using logical & strategic thinking to solve
problems.
Creativity
Originality; adaptive; ingenuity.
X Factor Awards
In order to reward positive behaviour we have implemented the X Factor Awards. Each fortnight two students will
be nominated by their Year Coordinator for the manner in which they conduct themselves at the College. It may be
for a specific action of merit or for consistently displaying the attributes we pride ourselves on at Xavier. The
students nominated will receive a $5 canteen voucher and be entered into an end of year draw.
The Week 4 winners were;
Year 7
Malia James & Flynn Gibbs
Year 8
Abbey Tancred & Solomon Power
Year 9
Tiahna Freedman & Brandon Green
Year 10
Tahlie Murdoch & Nate Hetherington
Year 11
Claire Evans & Samuel Murphy
Year 12
On exams and have not been in class
Uniform Draw
The uniform draw was held at this week’s assembly and Year 10’s Ryan Villacampa was the winner.
Congratulations on wearing the uniform with such pride.
Xavier Catholic College
Love Yourself
Seasons for Growth Program
Mrs Frances Lamont – Facilitator
Change and loss are issues that affect all of us at some stage in our lives. At Xavier Catholic College we recognise
that when changes occur in families through death, separation, divorce or related circumstances, young people may
benefit from learning how to manage these changes effectively. We are therefore offering a very successful
education program called Seasons for Growth. This program is facilitated in small groups and is based on research
that highlights the importance of social support and the need to practise new skills to cope effectively with change
and loss. The program focuses on issues such as self-esteem, managing feelings, problem-solving, decisionmaking, effective communication and support networks.
If you think your son or daughter would benefit from Seasons for Growth we encourage you to talk to them about
this. Should they decide to participate please obtain a permission note from the College Office or download one
from the College website. For further information please contact me at the College.
Literacy & Numeracy – Volunteers Needed!
Mrs Sarina McPherson – Literacy & Numeracy Coordinator
Every Thursday and Friday morning at Xavier Catholic College, we offer Peer Tutoring in Literacy and
Numeracy skills. These tutoring sessions run from 8:00am to 8.30am and involve the revision and consolidation
of basic skills in both Literacy and Numeracy.
This year we have had a significant increase in the numbers of students wanting to attend these tutoring sessions.
Most students are in Year 7 or Year 8 and are eager and willing to improve their skills and learning outcomes and
make a positive start to high school. Most students are also looking to connect with an older peer and establish
relationships with students outside their classes.
We are currently seeking student volunteers from Years 9, 10 and 11 to assist during our before school PEER
tutoring program as Tutors. We currently have a shortage of tutors which has made running these tutoring
programs more challenging.
If you feel that your son/daughter would be willing to act as a tutor and mentor, please encourage them to attend.
They need to come to J2 at 8.00am and sign in with either myself (Thursdays - Literacy) or Mr Peter O'Toole
(Fridays - Numeracy). They do not need to be an academic genius to be a tutor - rather a willing and supportive
learning companion to these younger students.
If you would like any more information about this opportunity please do not hesitate to contact myself or Peter
O’Toole at the College.
Canteen Roster
Mrs Denise Barnard – Canteen Supervisor
Where possible, volunteers are asked to start at 8.45am. If you are unable to make your rostered day, or would like
to volunteer, please email Denise at [email protected] or phone the College on 6687 6484 and leave
a message.
Week 5
Mon 15 Aug
Michelle Breen
Leigh Asser
Tue 16 Aug
Lisa Mijaanes
Leigh O'Malley
Wed 17 Aug
Bek Campbell
Maureen Whitney
Thur 18 Aug
Leanne Gearing
Natasha Colefax
Fri 19 Aug
Dianne Waddell
Help Needed
Mon 22 Aug
Terri McGuire
Tash Colefax
Tue 23 Aug
Amanda Starfield
Leisa Crethar
Wed 24 Aug
Simone Wilson
Help Needed
Thur 25 Aug
Kath Murphy
Jo Tobias
Fri 26 Aug
Joanna Mathews
Jacqui Robertson
Week 6
Sharon Boggis
Careers News
Ms Mandy Hughes – Careers Advisor
The Lismore Campus Y12 Parent Information Evening
Wednesday, 31st August 2016 from 5pm to 7pm.
These events are designed to assist parents of Year 12 students who are considering Southern Cross
University. The program will cover university entry, course selection, careers, tuition fees, HECS-HELP,
scholarships, support services and will include a Q&A session with current SCU students.
For more information, please contact:SCU student recruitment officer Cait Feldmann on 02 6620 3102 or [email protected].
Whether you are soon to choose subjects for senior high school or about to finish Year 12, the GIRLS IN
Engineering & Science event provides a chance to investigate your options.
Participants must register their attendance by email at [email protected].
Light refreshments provided. Visit our Facebook page to find out more.
When:
Where:
Time:
Cost:
Age:
Thursday, 18th August, 2016
Ballina Surf Club, Lighthouse Beach
5.30pm – 7.30pm
There is no charge for attendance
Year 9-12 students
Lismore Catholic Schools Parent Assembly promoting a faith that leads to fullness of life.
PARENT EDUCATION EVENING
Your Child on Social Media - Kirra Pendergast SOS
With over 20 years of digital security, risk management and business consulting Kirra Pendergast founder
and director of Safe on Social Pty Ltd has for the last 7 years focused on social media risk management,
investigation and education for numerous schools, business and government agencies across Australia.
Kirra has completed a Social Media Audit on Xavier Catholic College and talked to students about how to
stay safe on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter and more!
In this insightful presentation to parents Kirra will identify the risks teenagers face on social media and
strategies you as parents can use to help your child to Stay Safe on Social Media.
A must hear presentation for all parents of teenagers.
How to Help Your Child Cope with their Fears - Kirsten Clarke
Fear of public speaking, trying something new or sitting an exam can cause fear and anxiety in most of us.
School Counsellor Kirsten Clarke will arm you with a bag of tools you can use to help your child tackle
their fears and in doing so become more resilient and resourceful teenagers.
Don’t miss these two great presentations….Register today click on the link below!
Childcare Available - please advise when registering.
When:
Tuesday, August 16 from 6.30pm to 8.30pm
Where: Magis Centre, Xavier Catholic College Ballina
Contact: Leanne Robbins 0407 143 975
Parent Assembly Cluster Organiser East Richmond
To Register click here or go to https://goo.gl/MPvxVS
Xavier Catholic College, Ballina and the Catholic Schools Parent Assembly warmly welcome
all parents and caregivers in our parish schools to attend this FREE event.