St John's School Roma eNewsletter

Principal's Address

Dear Parents and Friends of St John's,

As this is the final newsletter for the year, I wish to take the opportunity to thank all the St John’s School Community for your contributions. I have thoroughly enjoyed my third year at St John's and appreciated the tremendous Mercy culture that drives the spirit of St John’s School.

As a school community we recently celebrated the achievements of our students during the Years 5 - 12 and P - 4 presentation events at the Cultural Centre and the school, respectively. It was gratifying to see so many parents able to attend the events and witness the achievements of their children across a variety of areas including academic, cultural, sport, community and religious life of the school. Each award recipient has demonstrated the Mercy value of Excellence in their respective area, and I acknowledge their individual achievements.

Last Friday, our 2022 Seniors were farewelled by the St John’s Community. The day commenced with spirited rivalry between staff and seniors in the traditional tee ball game before an emotional final parade and clap out. The seniors of 2022 have made this year at St John’s School memorable for many reasons; however, I will cherish their kindness, sense of humour and above all else, their mateship. I have equally admired their tenacity and 'can do' attitude. I can say with confidence that this cohort of seniors has left a positive legacy and will make an impact well beyond the gates of St John's.

In addition to our Year 12s leaving, I advise that Sabrina Ward has confirmed she is unable to accept her teaching position for 2023. A recruitment process is currently in place for that position as well as the School Counsellor position resulting from the relocation of Mr Troy Williams. We wish Sabrina and Troy well in 2023.

In the first week of the school holidays, construction of new playground equipment will commence; this will be completed for the resumption of school in 2023. I thank the P&F for their generous support and in particular, Mrs Caron Brindley, who led the project.

I request that parents check the condition of uniform articles, prior to the commencement of school next year. Skirts for the girls’ uniforms should be just above the knee, whilst the formal hats for male students (Years 7-12) should be devoid of holes. Students in Years 7-12 require both the sports bucket hat and formal hat, along with black leather laced shoes and plain belt (boys).

Commencing in 2023 are changes to the criteria for attainment of Academic Awards in P-6. The changes will allow for more than three students to receive awards in a year level and provide a more consistent approach across P-12. The criteria being applied for the next ceremony will be as follows for P-6.

Gold – 80% As in English, Mathematics, Science, HASS, Religious Education and no less than a B in remaining subjects.

Silver- 60% As in English or Mathematics, Science, HASS, Religious Education and no less than a B in remaining subjects.

Bronze - 40% As in English or Mathematics, Science, HASS, Religious Education and no more than one C in remaining subjects.

These criteria along with Years 7-12 criteria are published on the St John’s website.

A big welcome to our new teaching staff for 2022 who joined us last Friday for their Induction Day; Ms Emma Wilkes (Hospitality 7-12), Ms Rachael Thwaits (Science and Mathematics 7-12), Mr Phil Wheaton (7-12 Humanities, English and Religious Education), Ms Abbie Beard (P-6), and Ms Jessica Morgan (P-6). Ms Grace Gibbs moves from the 7-12 phase of schooling to the P-6 phase in 2023. I am also pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Sophie Tilbury to our P-6 teaching team.

A reminder that our end of year Bush Dance will be held on Tuesday 29^th November commencing at 5.30pm in the P&F Multi-Purpose Centre. Food and drinks are available for purchase. The evening will be a lovely way to conclude the year and I look forward to the pleasure of your company.

School concludes for Year 10 and 11 on Friday 25^th November and Years P - 9 next Wednesday 30th November. School commences for all students in 2023 on Tuesday 24^th January.

As the year draws to a close, I wish all families a safe, joyous and holy festive season and draw upon this prayer: Bless all of those who have been part of our community, especially the teachers, children and parents who will not be here next year and bless this school of ours where we gather to bring our year’s work to completion.

God bless, Jim Brennan

Prep

Prep

Prep

Year One

This term, the students have listened to and role-played Old Testament stories to gain an understanding of how God was active in the lives of people. The deep faith of David as he faced Goliath and Ruth’s love and devotion to Naomi showed the students how God was present in their lives.

The students drew on prior knowledge as they revisited the events leading up to the birth of Jesus. They had the opportunity to identify the similarities and differences between the characters who were part of this significant event. They created their own booklet showing through images and text the events of the Christmas story.

Year Six

Year Seven

ICAS Assessments

Students between Years Two and Ten participated in ICAS (international Competitions and Assessments for Schools) at St John’s during Term Three. The following students received special awards in recognition of their very high achievements.

Science

High Distinction – Kevin Zhang

Merit – Rebe Cunningham

Credit- Camee Jayamanne, Elsa Smith, Elly Burey, Georgina Sellars, Geoff Murray, Kaden Lee