Welcome Year 7 by JohnPaulCollege

MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Welcome to Year 7 at John Paul College. We thank you for choosing our College for your child’s secondary education.

The time of transition from primary into secondary education is an exciting time for students and their parents/guardians. It is an opportunity to explore new horizons and undertake new learning experiences. It can also be a time of challenge for some students and parents. Leaving behind the certainty and security of a primary school setting where the student and their family are known and where everything is familiar is not always easy.

Our aim at John Paul College is to make this time of transition as smooth as possible and to support students and their families to feel welcome and at home. The sense of belonging is important for students in this transition time, and we are committed to ensuring that each and every student is known and feels a part of this community.

Each of you become part of the John Paul College community and we look forward to sharing the journey from Year 7 through to Year 12 with you as partners in your child’s education.

This partnership supports students to grow and thrive in all aspects of their schooling experience. We commit ourselves to be a school where each student’s success is grounded in quality learning and teaching and create a school culture that fosters wellbeing, promotes resilience and inspires faith in action.

My best wishes for the journey ahead.

MR JOHN VISENTIN College Principal

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

KEY DATES

TUESDAY 10 DECEMBER 2024

Orientation Day

Arrive: 8:30am for a 8:45am start

Finish: 12.30pm

• Casual Clothes

• Morning Tea will be provided, please bring a drink bottle

• For specific dietary requirements, please contact Enrolments, enrolments@jpc.vic.edu.au

• Kealy Centre drop off and collection, accessible via Gate 5

PRE-ORIENTATION SESSION

Tuesday 3 December

Students identified as requiring additional support and single school applicants.

Families offered these additional orientation sessions will be contacted directly.

FRIDAY 31 JANUARY 2025

First day for Year 7s

Arrive: 8:30am for a 8:45am start

Finish: 12:30pm

• John Paul College Summer Uniform with Blazer

• Bring your laptop and pencil case

• Bring half your text and exercise books (bring remainder on the first full day)

• Morning Tea will be provided, please bring a drink bottle

• For specific dietary requirements, please contact Enrolments, enrolments@jpc.vic.edu.au

• School photo day for Year 7 & 12 students only

• Kealy Centre drop off and collection, accessible via Gate 5

MONDAY 3 FEBRUARY 2025

First day for all students

Start: 8:30am

Finish: 3:00pm

• Bring the remainder of your books for first full day of classes

CONNECTING THROUGH STAFF

John Visentin COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

Christine Ward HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL WELLBEING

Scott McCleary HEAD OF YEAR 7

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au

Craig Judkins DEPUTY PRINCIPAL WELLBEING

Lauren Moore HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL LEARNING

Lainie Hayle ASSISTANT HEAD OF YEAR 7

Michael O’Keeffe DEPUTY PRINCIPAL LEARNING & TEACHING

Katarina Ovcin COLLEGE NURSE

Alecia Misra YEAR 7 CASE MANAGER

PARENT CONTACT INFORMATION

At John Paul College, we value open and effective communication between Parents/ Guardians and our staff. These guidelines are designed to help you connect with the right person to address your interests and needs efficiently and respectfully.

IMPORTANT COLLEGE CONTACT INFORMATION

1. START WITH THE SOURCE:

College Website jpc.vic.edu.au

Connect with the right person that is best placed to address your inquiry

Main Reception 9784 0200

2. CONNECT THROUGH PAM:

Student Services 9784 0207

Visit the Parent Access Module (PAM) to connect with staff.

Student Attendance 9784 0237

SMS: 0499 377 423

3. PATIENTLY AWAIT A RESPONSE:

Information about notifying student attendance can be read on page 11.

Our staff will aim to reply within 2 Business Days

4. MAINTAIN RESPECT:

COMMUNICATION

We appreciate and expect courtesy in all communications

There are many members of the College staff that will assist in the education of your children. The diagram below showcases the best staff member to contact depending on the question or need of the child.

All enquiries via 03 9784 0200 or email through PAM.

CONNECTING WITH THE RIGHT

PERSON

AREA OF INTEREST OR SUPPORT

Overall Wellbeing & General Academics

Subject Specific Learning Inquiries

All enquires via 03 9784 0200 or email through PAM CONTACT

Pastoral Care Teacher

Subject Teacher

Student Absence & Early Collection Via PAM (preferred Method)

All other Student Inquiries

Subject Offerings and VCE Guidance

Pastoral Care Teacher

Learning Area Leader

Stewart Centre for Individual Learning Year Level Case Manager VET Inquiries

BELL TIMES

• There are six periods each day.

• Each period goes for 50 minutes

• It is expected that students move from one class to the next as efficiently as possible.

• 5 minutes of music will play following a bell at the start of the day and bells that conclude recess and lunchtime. This is to allow students to transition to class.

• Students should only be visiting their lockers; before school, recess, lunch and after school.

• Assembly and Short Day timetables are listed in the College planner.

• Please note there is no Pastoral (8:30 -8:45) on Wednesday mornings.

TIMETABLE

NORMAL DAY TIMETABLE

Pastoral Group 8:30am - 8:45am

Period 1 8:45am - 9:35am

Period 2 9:35am - 10:25am

Recess 10:25am - 10:45am

Period 3 10:50am - 11:40am

Period 4 11:40am - 12:30pm

Lunch 1 12:30pm - 12:50pm

Lunch 2 12:50pm - 1:15pm

Period 5 1:20pm - 2:10pm

Period 6 2:10pm - 3:00pm

After School 3:00pm - 3:20pm

• A live timetable is available via the student management system, SIMON and the parent access module, PAM. Please refer to page 15 for further information on PAM.

• All students should have a copy of their timetable in their College Planner.

• A copy of their timetable should also be kept in their locker.

• If there is a blank on a student’s timetable, it indicates that the student is expected to attend an event outside of their regular classes, such as an excursion or a guest speaker session. A blank will never appear without a specific reason.

• Any changes to a student’s base timetable will be highlighted in red, typically indicating a classroom change.

Day 1

Mon PC07G MCGA (D3) 2MAT07G TARA (D3)

Day 2

Tues PC07G MCGA (D3) 2ENG07G WHIM (D3) 2PEC07G WEBH (GY3) 2MAT07G TARA (D3) 2ITA07G GOLY (D3) 2REL07G HERB (D3) 2MAT07G TARA (D3)

Day 3

Wed 2MA07G TARA (D3) 2REL07G HERB (D3) 2HU07G PHIS (D3) 2ENG07G WHIM (D3)

Day 4

Thurs PC07G MCGA (D3) 2ENG07G WHIM (RC) 2PEC07G WEBH (GY3) 2MAT07G TARA (D3) 2ITA07G GOLY (D3)

Day 5

Fri PC07G MCGA (D3) 2MAT075 TARA (D3) 2REL07G HERB (D3) 2HU07G PHIS (D3) 2ENG07G WHIM (D3)

Blank indicates no Pastoral Group or an event.

2SCI07G DALK (N3) 2ITA07G GOLY (D3)

2REL07G HERB (D3) 2MAT07G TARA (D3)

2ENG07G WHIM (D3) Subject Year 7 Stream Teacher Classroom

John Paul College

Specialist Technology Rooms

General Purpose Rooms

Administration - Main Office

Staff Professional Learning Room

Wellbeing Hub

Student Services

Chaminade Building

FCJ Centre Learning and Teaching

Resource Centre & ICT

Ngargee Centre (Visual & Performing Arts)

Stella Maris Centre

Neff Science Centre

Chapel The Kealy Centre

Kealy Centre

COLLEGE MAP

Head of Year 9

Head of Year 8

Head of Year 7

LOCKERS

Students at John Paul College are provided with lockers and a combination lock, to store their books, bags and devices.

• Maintaining their locker and keeping it in good order is the student’s responsibility.

• Bags must be kept in students’ lockers and not taken in class.

• It is important that students are organised and develop good habits from the start.

• Students must always have a lock on their locker and ensure that it is locked at all times.

• Students should never tell anyone their lock combination.

• All valuables should always be locked away, unless with your child. (The schools phone policy stipulates that mobile phones must be stored securely in a students locker during the day and not be taken to class.)

• Students are only permitted to use a combination lock and the school retains the right to access student lockers.

Students will be allocated a locker at the beginning of the school year by their Pastoral Group Teacher. Students can access their locker at the start and conclusion of the school day and during break times.

To take into account this big adjustment, Year 7s are released from their Period 6 class 5 minutes early for the entirety of Term 1, this allows them some extra time to access their lockers before proceeding to their bus or leaving the College grounds.

John Paul College will provide a lock for students at the commencement of their John Paul College journey. If a student loses or misplaces their lock, then they are required to purchase a replacement, which can be arranged with Student Services.

If students cannot open their lock and need to access their locker, they can visit Student Services, where staffwill be able to assist them in accessing their locker.

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE

Regular attendance at school supports the student to develop routine, learn efficiently and develop quality friendships and connections. Students arriving to school on time, must go to their locker to store their belongings and collect their books. Students must then proceed to their Pastoral Care class as per their timetable.

LATE ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL (AFTER 8:30AM)

• Students must sign in at Student Services upon arrival.

• Parents can leave a message on the absence line on 9784 0237 or Text College 0499 377 423

• Students can hand in a note from their Parent/ Carer to Student Services.

• If Students do not sign in at Student Services, this will be flagged to House Coordinators as an irregular absence and will be followed up.

• Where possible, please provide as much notice as possible for the appointment. A request for future absence (partial or full day) can be made in advance via the PAM portal. Requests can also be made by calling or emailing Student Services.

PARTIAL DAY ABSENCE

• Arriving Late or Leaving Early due to appointment or other reason must be entered via PAM portal.

• Any notification of Early Leave after 12 noon must be reported via phone to Student Services.

• Student must be collected from Student Services and signed out.

• Steps:

1. Parent Notified Absence up to 4 days (top right corner)

2. Add Absence

3. Select Reason (drop down)

4. Select Absence Period (drop down)

5. Select Absence Date

6. Include notes on absence

WHOLE DAY ABSENCE

• The College must be informed via PAM portal by 8:30am if the student is going to be absent for the day.

• Should you have issues accessing your PAM portal, notification via SMS or voicemail is acceptable.

• If the College is not notified of students’ absence, an SMS will be sent at 10:00am.

• If you do not have knowledge of your students’

absence and you receive the absence SMS, please notify the College immediately.

REQUEST FOR EXTENDED LEAVE

• All requests for leave from school due to holidays/ travel must be made directly to the Principal’s Office.

• All other requests for planned leave due to medical or personal reasons must notify Pastoral Care teacher or/and Attendance@jpc.vic.edu.au

ABSENCE FROM CHANGE SESSION

Students who have a scheduled Change Session on a day of full absence will have their session rescheduled to the next available date.

FEELING UNWELL DURING SCHOOL DAY

• Unwell students must present to the College nurse. The nurse will assess students’ condition and contact parent/carers should they need to go home.

• At no point should student contact parents directly.

• All students leaving early must be signed out at Health Centre.

UNIFORM

The John Paul College uniform unites our students and College, great care should be taken to ensure it is worn each day with pride and respect. Our uniform has been designed to be practical, comfortable and is a representation of our College values and history.

John Paul College has both a summer and winter uniform that can be worn throughout the school year The College sports uniform can be worn to and from school on the days of a scheduled sport class.

The John Paul College Uniform shop is managed by Dobsons, offering instore and online purchasing services.

The Uniform Shop contact number is (03) 9784 0281. Visit the website for Uniform policy and links to Dobsons www.jpc.vic.edu.au/student-life/books-and-uniform Credit card and EFTPOS facilities are available. For more information contact Dobsons

Website dobsons.com.au

Email jpc@dobsons.com.au

Dobsons Customer Service

Tel 03 8788 7500 Or email: sales@dobsons.com.au

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

www.jpc.vic.edu.au

UNIFORM

John Paul College expects all students to present themselves strictly in accordance with uniform guidelines.

1. All students are expected to wear the regulation College uniform whilst at and traveling to and from school. A high standard is expected with regard to the condition of the uniform and the way it is worn.

2. The John Paul College bag is a compulsory school requirement.

3. Dresses and skirts must not be shorter than 5cm above the knee cap.

WHEN TO WEAR A BLAZER

• Blazers are a compulsory uniform during Terms 2 and 3 only.

• During Terms 2 and 3, blazers must be worn whilst travelling to and from school.

• Blazers are not to be worn as part of the Sport uniform.

• Blazers must be worn at whole school Assemblies

• Blazers must be worn to homeroom each morning

WHEN TO WEAR A JUMPER

• Jumpers can be worn all year round but never as the outermost garment when arriving at or leaving school.

• If the jumper is worn when arriving or leaving school, students must also have their blazer on.

WHAT COLOUR SOCKS TO WEAR WHAT JEWELLRY IS PERMITTED

• Students can only wear dark blue socks when wearing school uniform. These socks must not display writing or logos.

• Black or white sport socks may be worn with PE uniform. Small logos are permitted.

• Students are permitted to wear small earrings (stud or hoop variety) and should be limited to two per ear.

• Nose piercings are not permitted although small, clear plastic

• covers are permitted.

• No other visible piercings are permitted.

4. Shorts and trousers must be secured at the waist and not be worn below the hip. Shorts length must not be below the knee.

5. Shoes must be black, polishable school shoes. They must maintain good, polished condition. Shoes that are not permitted include black leather runners, leather skate or other sport shoes (eg. Vans) and black canvas shoes.

WHEN TO WEAR THE SPORT UNIFORM

• Sport uniform can only be worn on days when students have a designated PE Practical Class identified on timetables by the room code GYM3.

• Sport uniform is not to be worn on days of SIS Sport as students are expected to change into team uniforms at the venue.

WEARING A T-SHIRT UNDER THE SCHOOL SHIRT

• Plain white T-shirts may be worn under the school shirts so long as no portion is visible.

• This means they should be tucked in at the waist and should be of the V-neck variety.

WHAT ARE THE RULES AROUND HAIR & MAKEUP AND FACIAL HAIR?

• Any makeup should appear natural

• No facial hair is allowed

• No eyelash or fingernail extensions are permitted

• Nails must be of natural colour

• Extreme hairstyles as determined by the DP Wellbeing are not permitted (eg non-natural colours, dreadlocks, or styles not accepted in a business environment)

Further details upon the Uniform policy will be available in the 2025 Student Planner.

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

WHEN TO WEAR SUMMER OR WINTER UNIFORM

• Summer and Winter Uniform can be worn by choice throughout the school year.

Mobile phones and other smart devices are permitted at the College for necessary communication when travelling to and from campus, under the following conditions:

• They may only be used before and after school hours.

• They should be stored in the student’s locker during school hours.

• If a student needs to make an urgent call on their phone during school hours they must seek permission from staff and make the call at Student Services.

• Headphones can only be used during class time for learning purposes if allowed by a teacher.

• Headphones are not to be used between classes.

USE OF MOBILE PHONES AND HEADPHONES LAPTOP RESPONSIBILITY

BYOD PROGRAM

John Paul College has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) program which sees every student bring an electronic device to school to support their learning.

The College has worked with Edunet to provide a portal for parents to purchase the recommended devices at the lowest prices and to provide support for any issues that arise during the life of the laptop. The portal provides options for devices that meet the minimum devices specifications set out by John Paul College. These devices come with a 3-year Lenovo Warranty including accidental damage cover, and Sealed Battery Warranty upgrade included. Families also have the option of purchasing an additional Insurance Upgrade including Theft Insurance.

Should a problem arise with a device which has been purchased from the Parent Portal, the John Paul College ICT staff can assist in the warranty or insurance process with an Edunet Technician, helping minimise the time in which your child does not have a working device.

More information about the BYOD program can be found at: jpc.vic.edu.au > Learning > BYOD Program

In the case of an emergency, please make Student Services your first point of contact. This will ensure your child is reached as quickly as possible and assisted by a member of staff.

More information on technology use will be available in the student planner.

LAPTOP RESPONSIBILITY

Central to John Paul College’s mission is the importance of preparing students with the skills and values to engage successfully in the Twenty-First Century world.

The College acknowledges the increased use and ownership of electronic devices within the community, and in particular by students. As such it requires that teachers, students, and parents take steps to ensure that electronic devices are used responsibly. Students will receive the College Electronic Device Policy at the start of the academic year. Parents are advised to discuss the policy, and the Agreement with their child to ensure ICT requirements of the College are followed and for online safety.

Laptop Responsibilities for students:

• Keep the device away from food, drink, pets, and younger siblings.

• Use a bag to protect the device from breaks, spills, or drops.

• Secure the device in lockers during recess, and lunchtime.

• Make sure the device is fully charged at the beginning of each day.

• Keep passwords private.

PAM & SIMON

SIMON is the College’s Learning Management System which provides staff and students a shared and collaborative learning experience with simple functionality and workflows to view College content, communications and learning data.

Students will use SIMON to see their live timetable, calendar, College daily notes and notifications, and to source learning documentation from various subjects.

Parent Access Module (PAM) is the parent portal and is the communication tool between the College and the parents/guardian. PAM provides parents and guardians with quick, easy access to their child’s academic program, results, timetables and schedules, and College policies and resources. PAM also hosts students medical information and is used to notify, and source approval for College activities.

NAVIGATING PAM

Open a web browser and go to the below address: https://pam.jpc.vic.edu.au/

Enter your login details.

If you do not have your login details, or have forgoten them, please contact the ICT Support Office at John Paul College.

Phone: 03 9784 0246

Email: ictsupport@jpc.vic.edu.au

You will arrive at this screen:

This is the main page. From here parents and guardians have access to links, useful information and can see the daily messages and the calendar for current events.

In the top right corner, there is a bell icon which indicates a notification.

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au

PAM & SIMON

PAM contains the following information:

To access all relevant information for their child, parents and guardians need to click on the relevant student’s profile picture:

Personal Details: This area will show the child’s John Paul College Personal Details and Enrolment Details.

Student Timetable: This area shows a live Timetable for the next two weeks of the child’s classes.

Social Behaviour: This area will show a count of the child’s Incidents, Change Sessions etc.

Attendance: This area allows parents/guardians to download attendance reports to view the child’s semester attendance.

Assessment Reports: From here Parents/Guardians can download all of their child’s academic reports during their time at John Paul College.

Commendations: This area will indicate positive behaviours to encourage and acknowledge students who strive for personal growth.

Letters: This area will provide families with all formal communication specific to their child.

Learning Tasks: In this area Parents/Guardians will be able to view all of their child’s Assessment Tasks (Previous and Current). As well as view results, feedback, and their child’s submissions (if uploaded to an assessment task).

Email Staff: In this area parents and guardians are able to communicate directly with their child’s class teachers via email.

Medical Profile: In this area Parents/Guardians are asked to complete their child’s Profile. This will allow the College to view all Medical details about the child when they attend a School Activity.

Note: Families are asked to review medical records of their child prior to approving activities/excursion.

Connect: Connect fields allow Parents/Guardians to complete School consents for policies.

School Activities: In this area parents and guardians will be able to approve all activities/excursions relating to their child. ICT SUPPORT OFFICE CONTACT

ictsupport@jpc.vic.edu.au 03 9784 0246

ICT Office Hours: 7:30am - 4:00pm | Monday to Friday

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE

www.jpc.vic.edu.au

STUDENT WELLBEING VISION

PASTORAL CARE

The Student Wellbeing Vision outlines how the College actively promotes Wellbeing to improve learning and life outcomes for our students. The Vision is the result of extensive collaboration between staff and students and aims to help every student realise their unique potential through physical, mental, emotional and spiritual development.

Wellbeing and academic outcomes are inextricably linked. Our Student Wellbeing Vision and Learning and Teaching Vision are complementary documents. Our approach to wellbeing and learning enables us to realise one’s unique potential through physical, mental, emotional and spiritual development.

The document identifies four key elements of wellbeing –Pastoral Care, Community Engagement, Child Safety, and Student Voice and Agency. Each of these areas outlines how we Enable, Learn, Engage, and Connect with these elements through structures, policies and education.

To read the Student Wellbeing Vision visit: jpc.vic.edu.au/home/pastoral/student-wellbeing-vision

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au

CHILD SAFETY

STUDENT VOICE & AGENCY

WELLBEING

It is in relationship with God and others in the school community that young people are enabled to discover who they are, where they come from, and what their destiny can be.”

PASTORAL CARE

Pastoral Care at John Paul College is a framework of support for our students from Year 7 to Year 12. It has a dual foundation of relationships and learning and is an integral element of our visible focus on wellbeing.

• Creating support networks for students

• Fostering social and emotional skills

• Extracurricular and co-curricular activities

CHILD SAFETY

Child Safety at John Paul College is an explicit commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment where the emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual and physical wellbeing of our students is a priority.

• Zero tolerance for abuse

• Child safety policies and strategies

• Promotion of inclusion and diversity

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Community Engagement at John Paul College is centred on the understanding that authentic human flourishing occurs in communion and connection with others. By understanding our individual and collective responsibilities within the John Paul College community, we strengthen a sense of belonging which helps promote resilience, positive behaviour and supports mental and emotional wellbeing.

• Building relationships with students, teachers, parents and community

• Instilling values of social justice, inclusion and equity

STUDENT VOICE AND AGENCY

Student Voice and Agency at John Paul College is an embedded approach whereby students contribute their ideas and thoughts to their learning and wellbeing collaboratively with staff to develop empowerment and connection.

• Collaboration with students, families and staff in decision making

• Student leadership opportunities

PASTORAL CARE

All students in Year 7 will be assigned a Pastoral Care group which also functions as their class group. The Pastoral Care group contains students from each of the four houses. In most cases, the Pastoral Care teacher will also teach your child for another subject. Across the cycle, the Pastoral Care teacher will see your child every morning (except for Wednesdays) and for a minimum of three 50 minute lessons. During the designated Pastoral Care lessons the ‘Horizons’ program will be delivered.

Horizons: Shaping Futures Through Relationships, Responsibility, Respect, and Reflection.

At Horizons, we envision a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential. Our program is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships, instilling a sense of responsibility, and cultivating mutual respect. By encouraging reflection, we aim to prepare our students

for the future by equipping them with the skills and values necessary to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities with confidence and integrity. It is in relationship with God and others in the school community that young people are enabled to discover who they are, where they come from and what their destiny can be.

The Pastoral Care teacher is the primary person to ensure that your child presents according to the Student Code of Conduct. Should a student breach this, it is likely the Pastoral Care teacher will make contact with the parents/carers to discuss the issue.

Student achievement will be recognised through the issuing of Commendations with the hope that all students can be praised for the positive contribution they make to the life of the College. Our aim is to empower all students with a sense of achievement

House Spirit and Our Shield

HOUSE SPIRIT AND SHIELD

House connections play a significant role in our students’ journey at John Paul College and provide an extra sense of pride and belonging.

The four Houses; Chaminade, D’Houet, Olsen and Turner pay special tribute to our history and formation. Students are designated a House when they enter in Year 7 and stay with that House for their journey at the College.

CHAMINADE D’HOUET OLSEN TURNER

Marianist Boys’ College preceded John Paul College, and this symbol of Mary our Mother continues today to hold significance for John Paul College. This panel is dedicated to Joseph Chaminade, founder of the Marianists. The charism of Chaminade is Perseverance.

The anchor, an ancient Christian symbol of hope, is representative of Stella Maris Girls’ College established by the Faithful Companions of Jesus. Stella Maris also preceded John Paul College. This panel is dedicated to Madeleine D’Houet, the founder of the Faithful Companions of Jesus. The charism of D’Houet is Courage.

The dolphin represents Frankston and the Peninsula. This panel is dedicated to OJ Olsen, a benefactor of John Paul College. The charism of Olsen is Generosity.

The dolphin represents Frankston and the Peninsula. This panel is dedicated to OJ Olsen, a benefactor of John Paul College. The charism of Olsen is Generosity

The Papal keys signify that the College community is held within the faith tradition of the universal Catholic Church. This panel of the College crest is dedicated to Mary Turner, one of the founders of John Paul College. The charism of Turner is Community.

WELLBEING SERVICES

John Paul College is well equipped with wellbeing services to support our students throughout their journey at the College.

HEALTH CENTRE

The College Nurse is responsible for the management and operation of the Health Centre and care of the students and staff who require first aid, basic medical assistance and holistic welfare during school hours. Students who are taken ill or are injured during the school day have access to the College Health Centre. Should students require medical attention during class, a class pass will be entered by the teacher so they can attend the Health Centre. If warranted, the parents/ guardians of an ill or injured student will be notified to collect the student, parents to enter via Gate 2. An ambulance will always be called in an emergency. Students are required to present themselves to the Health Centre and not contact the parents directly. The College Nurse will assess the severity of the condition and contact the parent if required. Your cooperation in this matter would be highly appreciated.

The College Nurse is a member of the Occupational Health and Safety Committee and is located in the Student Services Office. In addition to our nurse, we have approximately 80 staff members trained in Level 2 First Aid.

If a student is enrolled at John Paul College and has specific medical needs then please contact College Nurse on 9784 0303.

WELLBEING HUB

Adolescence is a time of intense social and emotional development. Students may sometimes need additional support to navigate challenges and develop the skills necessary for fulfilling lives. Our newly established Wellbeing Hub provides a welcoming and safe reflective space for students as part of our commitment to pastoral care.

The Wellbeing Hub offers access to counselling and interventions for a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, peer relationships, grief and loss, learning difficulties, behaviour management, family issues, study skills, school refusal, bullying, and stress. Our counselling professionals provide students with information and strategies that foster resilience and self-regulation, empowering them throughout their school journey.

At John Paul College we promote help seeking behaviours as a proactive means of meeting life’s challenges so we encourage students to use the College counselling service. Wherever possible, parental and carer involvement is sought and encouraged. Parents and carers are also encouraged to contact the service with any concerns they may have. In some situations it may be more beneficial for the parents/carers to meet with a counsellor to discuss how they can support their child, particularly when the student is reluctant to engage with counselling.

Privacy and confidentiality are of primary importance to this role. The College’s counselling professionals are ethically and legally obliged to protect the privacy of our clients within the limits of safety. Any particular concerns or questions are most welcome.

LEARNING AND TEACHING VISION

Our Vision for learning was created through staff, student and parent feedback. This innovative Vision presents our aim and purpose for learning as a school. The Vision supports our teachers and students to work with a unified set of values and beliefs which will drive the development of improving student outcomes and the learning experience for all our students.

Our vision comprises of a number of statements which reflect the Colleges collective values surrounding learning. Our vision states that we believe Learning is not just about knowledge and content, but growth This includes emotional and intellectual growth, to ensure all our students can thrive to be their best self. The Vision is organised around three elements for learning: Knowledge, Capabilities and Self. These elements describe the key behaviours and skills that our students will develop, both in and out of the classroom, to become successful learners.

To read the Learning and Teaching Vision visit: jpc.vic.edu.au/home/learning/learning-and-teaching-vision

YEAR 7 SUBJECTS

In Years 7 and 8 students study across all learning areas including core subjects that run throughout the year, and elective units that are studied for two terms, providing students with an introduction to a range of subjects and interests which helps them make informed elective decisions in their later years.

YEAR LONG SUBJECTS

English Literacy

Mathematics

Maths Enhancement Science

Humanities

Health & Physical Education

Religious Education

Italian

SEMESTER BASED SUBJECTS

Art

Visual Communication Design

Music

Drama

Product Design and Technology

Food Studies

STUDENT LEARNING

CURRICULUM GUIDE

The John Paul College Learning and Teaching Curriculum handbook describes the learning and teaching arrangements for Years 7 to 12. This includes a summary of every subject taught at the College, the subject pathways and the requirements for an appropriate course at each year level.

The Handbook also details the many Learning and Teaching policies including Homework and Study, Assessments and Reporting and Acceleration Policies. Also outlining the supporting programs and facilities available to support students learning including Academic Extension program, Gifted and Talented Program and the Stewart Centre for Individualised Learning.

Below is a snapshot of some of the content within the guide. Parents are encouraged to spend time with their student reading through the relevant information within the guide at each stage of their education journey atJohn Paul College.

The full Learning and Teaching Curriculum guide is available here: jpc.vic.edu.au/home/learning/learning-andteachingcurriculum-handbook

HOMEWORK AND STUDY

Homework at secondary school level helps reinforce classroom learning and is a key factor in academic progress. It also fosters independent study habits and organisational skills that will benefit the student in later life.

Our research-based homework policies ensure that homework complements classroom learning, is about quality not quantity, is age appropriate and allows for leisure and rest time.

Year 7 students are expected to complete approximately 50 minutes of homework per day. This may increase with assessment tasks and some homework may be assigned during weekends and school holidays.

Homework and study activities may include:

• Completing unfinished classwork

• Reading texts and novels

• Worksheets to reinforce classroom learning and skills

• Projects and assignments

• Multimedia

• Practicing for a musical or drama performance

• Practicing a language

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• Writing essays or other creative tasks

• Revising and study

Year 7 students will be supported by staff to use SIMON to keep track of their homework. Parents/Guardians can help their child develop good homework and study habits by:

• Showing a positive attitude towards homework and study

• Helping them get organised and take responsibility for their work

• Setting up an appropriate study area away from distractions

• Ensuring work/life balance by encouraging leisure, social and rest time

• Making learning a part of every day life

• Contacting teachers if there are any concerns

ASSESSMENTS

Year 7 students are assessed regularly throughout the year to track their progress and achievement as well as identify areas for improvement. Assessments for Year 7s include:

CATs (Common Assessment Tasks)

CATs are completed at least three times per semester for each subject. Marks and feedback are uploaded to SIMON and contribute to semester reports.

If the parent/guardian feels their child needs an assessment to be modified please discuss this with staff.

NAPLAN

NAPLAN is an annual literacy and numeracy assessment completed by Year 7 and 9 students. The data from assessments is used to inform and improve teaching practices.

STUDENT LEARNING

EXTENSIONS, ABSENCE AND LATE SUBMISSION

Students can request extensions prior to the due dates when the submission date cannot be met due to circumstances beyond the student’s control such as illness or family matters. If the student is absent from an assessment they must submit a medical certificate or note to Student Services. When a reason is not provided an ‘Overdue Work Notice’ will be sent to parents. Students then have five days to submit the task.

Consequences for late submission of work may include:

• 5% off the total mark for each day after due date

• Repeated instances may result in a change session

• Parent meeting and action plan developed

SATISFACTORY GRADE

50% is the minimum pass grade. If the student is required to re-sit or re-submit a task, parents will be notified.

Read more about grading in our Assessment and Reporting Policy here: https://www.jpc.vic.edu.au/home/files/Stories/ PoliciesJPC/AssessmentandReportingPolicy.pdf

REPORTS

Interim Reports

Completed at the end of Terms 1 and 3. These report on the student’s learning behaviour in each subject and if Parent Teacher Interviews have been requested.

Semester Reports

Includes all CAT results, an overall result, late submissions, and where the student sits in relation to the Victorian Curriculum Achievement Standard.

AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMIC STUDY PROGRAM

The John Paul College After School Study Program aims to cultivate a learning culture within JPC that fosters effective study habits and access to additional resources for students. Taking place every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoon, from 3pm until 4:30pm in the College Resource Centre the program is a great opportunity for students from all year levels to further their learning.

Teachers, Tutors and high achieving JPC Alumni assist students in: refining and expanding their study techniques, completing homework and revision, studying for a SAC or Test, and general organisation skills.

The College encourages all students to utilise this program as an additional resource in their studies, liaising with teachers and past students to assist students in accessing the curriculum.

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FAITH

The Faith and Mission of John Paul College is the foundation of all that we do as a learning community. Developing the faith and spirituality of young people is part of delivering a holistic education.

There are a variety of ways for students to engage with their faith throughout their time at John Paul College, within the Religious Education curriculum, through lunchtimes clubs and volunteering and through extra curricula activities. We are proud to provide contemporary and engaging faith experiences for young people.

Our Catholic faith has a particular call to service to others, particularly the marginalised in our community. John Paul College endeavours to develop truly altruistic service experiences for young people, that they may become passionate agents of change in the world.

RETREATS

Retreats take place in Year 7 & 8 and Year 11 & 12. These days are an opportunity for young people to stop, reflect and spend some time in community and prayer together. Retreats allow our students to focus on their faith and nourish their spiritual lives. Year 7 Retreats are held in class groups in the early part of Term 1 each year, allowing Year 7 students to connect with others and develop a sense of belonging at JPC.

PRAYER AND LITURGY

Students engage in prayer each day in their Pastoral Care groups and learn about the deeper meaning of prayer in their Religious Education classes. Students participate in communal prayer through whole school masses and other liturgical celebrations throughout the year. Students are invited to read and contribute their own prayers in House liturgies and celebrations, which offer them a chance to gather and share in each other’s company.

SOCIAL JUSTICE AND VOLUNTEERING

All year levels participate each year in Mission Action Day (MAD), raising money for their House causes. At Christmas, Pastoral Care groups create hampers for St Vincent de Paul to distribute to those in need in our local community. At the senior year levels, students have a range of volunteering opportunities including: assisting on The Community Companion Van, the John Paul College run charity which supports the homeless and marginalised in the Frankston area; visiting the residents at Skye Lodge for conversation and important community connections; supporting students at the Nepean School, a learning environment for children with a physical disability and/or complex health impairment; and assisting with Retreats for our parish primary schools and our own younger year levels. Also at the senior levels, students have the option of participating in social justice immersions to the Philippines and Timor Leste.

FAITH

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Our learning and teaching of Religious Education follows the Archdiocesan curriculum with its focus on the ‘Horizons of Hope’ education framework. Understanding the developmental stages of our young people, this curriculum calls us to embrace the contemporary world with imagination, and a particular hope-filled view of the human person and all of creation. Our Religious Education teachers invite students to make sense of their world and their lives within a faith community that is faithful to the mission of Jesus.

Consequently, we encourage our students to deeply engage with and question elements of faith and spirituality, acknowledging the variety of beliefs of their peers at John Paul College and indeed the world. Core elements of the curriculum that focus this growth of our students’ faith and spirituality within Religious Education at John Paul College are:

• The sacred dignity of each person, believing that everyone can experience success and be supported to see their lives as being shaped by the God who is at work in all of creation

• The search for truth, continuously critiquing, questioning, inquiring, imagining and re-imagining themselves and their world in an ongoing engagement with Catholic beliefs and practices

• Embracing difference and diversity as the context for dialogue, engagement and a deeper understanding of self, others and God

• Building a culture of learning together through collaboration, partnerships and life-giving relationships which enable all to flourish

• Engaging with the deep questions of life, constantly opening up spaces of meaning which engage Catholic faith with what matters most in the minds and hearts of the students

• Honouring equitable access and opportunit for all, with a particular commitment to those most in need

• Committing to achieving the highest standards possible based on reflective practice, using data, research and evidence to ensure progress and growth in learning

• Making a difference in the world, inspired by the Gospel and led by the Holy Spirit to grow in virtue and act for justice and the common good.

We want every student to rise to challenges, to ask questions, and to be curious thinkers. We educate our students on the Catholic perspective and embrace

valued traditions, while encouraging students to question and consider ideas, developing the crucial lifelong skill of critical and analytical thinking.

In Year 7 RE, your sons and daughters will be exploring the topics of:

• Belonging

• Our College founders

• Lent and Easter

• Creation

• Old Testament Stories

• Prayer

• Advent as well as learning about important days in the Liturgical Calendar as they occur throughout the year.