V Love LO E INNOVATION EDITION
Our Catholic Schools TS V. C AT H O L I C. E D U. AU
T E R M
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Executive Director’s Update
CONTENTS
Our schools and offices started the year
The new year has signalled another
in a flurry of activity even before the
year of growth, with many of our schools
Executive Director’s
first students reached our gates. Much
exceeding their enrolment targets. To the
Update 2
of our energy in those pre-term days
new families who have joined us in 2020,
centres on professional development,
I extend a warm welcome on behalf of
with all staff undergoing Student
all at Townsville Catholic Education.
Welcome to Our New Principals
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Protection and workplace compliance training in readiness to provide a safe
Strategic Initiatives 2020 School in Profile
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Innovations in Learning & Teaching
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Innovations in Faith Leadership
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and welcoming school environment.
This edition of Love Our Catholic Schools magazine starts the year on a positive note, focussing on innovation in our schools. We
In January, all teachers from the 29 schools
are always looking for ways to improve
across the diocese participated in a day
outcomes for our students. I hope you enjoy
focussed on Learning and Teaching practices.
reading about the many exciting programs
Teachers learned together about our model
and services which are aiming to ensure
of Gradual Release of Responsibility which
the highest quality of learning and teaching
supports all students to be successful in their
and provide the best possible school
learning. Staff from schools in the Burdekin,
experience for every one of our students.
Townsville and Mount Isa engaged with Innovations in
Melbourne University's Luke Mandouit on
Community Leadership 12-14
deep learning in the Religious Education
Jacqui Francis EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
curriculum and assessment space. Innovations in Stewardship 15-17 Term Dates
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The first days of the school year also marked the anniversary of the devastating floods that affected more than 300 of our school families last year. It has been a tumultuos year for many, and our prayers remain with those who
Love Our Northern Schools
18-19
are still waiting to return to their homes.
Love Our Southern Schools
20-21
Love Our Townsville Schools
21-22
Welcome to our new Principals
Love Our
Three new Principals were welcomed
Western Schools
into school communities in the Townsville
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diocese to start the school year.
KATHLEEN McCARTHY has been appointed as principal of Good Shepherd Catholic College, Mount Isa. She is well known as a leader in Catholic Education, and has joined the College from St Margaret Mary’s Catholic College in Townsville.
LUKE THOMSON brings a wealth of educational knowledge and experience in senior leadership roles into his new role at St Catherine's Catholic College, The Whitsundays.
A L LY S O N B U C H A N A N an experienced educator, is looking forward to working with the students and staff of St Francis Catholic School, Hughenden and has relocated from Holy Spirit Catholic School, Cranbrook.
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TOWNSVILLE CATHOLIC EDUCATION
Strategic Initiatives 2020 Each year, Townsville Catholic Education develops strategic priorities to guide the operations of our schools and support services, and eight Strategic Initiatives have been set for 2020. Broadly connecting to our four strategic pillars, the practical implementation of our Strategic Initiatives are already evident in our schools, and we are proud to highlight these in this edition of Love our Catholic Schools magazine.
LEARNING AND TEACHING
COMMUNITY
Reflective Teacher – We Believe: Every student in every
Inclusive Communities – We Believe: Every individual
classroom is entitled to achieve growth in their learning.
in Townsville Catholic Education contributes to
All Teachers Engage in Evidence-Based Pedagogy – We Believe: To improve student learning, it is critical to improve teaching.
CATHOLIC IDENTITY Faith Leadership and Formation – We Believe: The faith and spiritual formation of our staff is paramount to continuing
the success of the organisation and the outcomes for all of the students in our schools. Learning Environments for Wellbeing – We Believe: Our system of schools will draw on research and best practice to create healthy, vibrant and engaging places of learning. The social, emotional wellbeing of students is paramount.
the Catholic Ethos of our schools, and in Catholic Education,
STEWARDSHIP
we are committed to this search for the mystery of God
Visioning the Student Learner 2030 – We Believe:
that can be found revealed in all of God’s creation.
That schools exist to support learning and to
Growing Dialogical Schools – We Believe: The role of
create the future for their students.
Catholic education is to teach what the Church teaches and
Wellbeing – We Believe: For an organisation to perform
to do it in a way that doesn't compromise the "unchanging
at its optimum, we need to prioritise employee wellbeing.
truths" but that draws upon its Catholic identity, for that
Research has repeatedly shown the huge human and
indeed is what keeps the school and its mission "Catholic".
financial benefits of investing in wellbeing initiatives.
SCHOOL IN PROFILE
ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – THE STRAND
Embracing the Information Age St Joseph's Catholic School, The
“There are so many different things
in using technology appropriately and
Strand is Townsville’s oldest Catholic
available to our students which are
being respectful digital citizens.
School, founded in 1873. From humble
engaging and inspiring, and it’s helping
beginnings, the school has transformed
them engage in learning outside of the
into a modern and innovative learning
classroom and at home,” Jason says.
community for Kindergarten to Year 6
To continue the growth of technology in schools, Townsville Catholic Education’s Information Technology Services department
When Jason attended a Rode Podcasting
is coordinating with Catholic Education
session at EduTECH in 2019, he could
Western Australia and Microsoft to host
instantly see a place for this technology
an Innovation in Teaching Skills session
in the school. The school’s podcast
in Sydney in June. Principal Tim Ham
“Joey’s Cast” allows staff and students
has applied for some of St Joseph’s
Innovation is the process of making changes
the opportunity to communicate their
Catholic School’s teachers to present the
to something established, by introducing
learning, engage with the school community
benefits of learning with technology.
something new, which is exactly what St
and build public speaking skills.
students. Situated in North Ward beside St Joseph’s Church, the school provides an environment built on Catholic tradition with a commitment to lifelong learning.
Joseph’s Catholic School has done by
“Digital technology is playing an ever-
The school has been using Virtual and
greater role in education, and St Joseph’s
Augmented Reality to simulate life
Catholic School aims to equip students
“Our staff are always looking for
experiences and visualisations that simply
with skills to navigate a fast-changing
opportunities within their teaching
aren’t possible in traditional classrooms.
future,” TIm says. “Creativity and
programs to ensure students have
Taking students on a virtual trip to space
innovation will continue to be the driving
rich experiences involving new
or visiting holy sites around the world
force behind educating students at St
technology,” Principal, Tim Ham says.
has proven to increase the student’s
Joseph’s Catholic School, The Strand.”
integrating technology into their curriculum.
For the past two years, the school has
engagement and broaden interests.
been trialling working with an Information
It’s not only the students who are loving
Communication Technology (ICT)
the incorporation of new technologies into
Integration Specialist, Jason Bennett, and
the curriculum, parents are impressed too.
the school has seen amazing results.
“To think that these kids will be electronic
With Jason’s guidance, students
engineers of tomorrow, working with
experience a range of activities including
things like virtual reality, coding and
podcasts, Virtual Reality, motor robotics,
robotics, it’s incredible that they
and augmented reality experiences,
have the opportunity to do that at St
making learning in the classroom
Joseph’s,” parent, Lewis Ramsey says.
fun. The school’s annual Tech Expo is an opportunity to showcase and celebrate technology at the school.
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St Joseph’s Catholic School has a whole school approach to digital citizenship and students are educated
OUR STAFF ARE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THEIR TEACHING PROGRAMS TO ENSURE STUDENTS HAVE RICH EXPERIENCES INVOLVING NEW TECHNOLOGY Tim Ham P R I N C I PA L
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Flexible Learning in our schools
INNOVATIONS IN LEARNING & TEACHING
Classroom design has changed over the years with more schools promoting flexible learning spaces in their classrooms. The flexible layout promotes collaboration and communication, with feedback from schools stating they have achieved significant growth in engagement and student performance. Teachers can assign suitable spaces more conducive to different tasks and it can make the classroom look and feel more engaging and inviting, which assists with students’ attitudes towards learning. The flexible learning environment reflects the need to update our teaching style to 21st century teaching and learning which will help students obtain the skills they need in the future such as collaboration, communication, problem solving and critical thinking. The flexible learning environment encourages teachers to work at the highest level possible with the overall aim and purpose being to improve student learning outcomes.
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INNOVATIONS IN LEARNING & TEACHING GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC COLLEGE – MOUNT ISA
Video innovation for HPE students Good Shepherd Catholic College, Mount
Along with the visual applications,
individually or as a whole class. However,
Isa has been passionate about innovation
the use of technology within practical
with the ability to visually apply feedback
in the Health and Physical Education
classes opens new avenues for teachers
for students, it gives them the opportunity
Department to meet the needs of their
to target and differentiate instruction
to understand what they need to improve
students. Teacher Joshua-Lee Schofield
for students within the classroom.
on technically, and how they can introduce
– Smyth reports on their latest initiative. With the introduction of the new ATAR
As PE teachers we are constantly providing
strategies to improve their performance.
feedback verbally, whether that be
system, Senior Physical Education has seen a shift in thinking with assessment and practical applications. Students having to evaluate their practical performances and the use of technology has become even more important during classes. Throughout Years 11 and 12, students use video capture technology to assess, refine and develop their physical skills and strategies. As teachers, this also allows us to share the perspectives with the students to get them on the same visual page. It grants us the information to break down and modulate skills whilst also allowing for instruction to build on their movement strategies.
A year 12 student uses video evidence to explain the constraints he encountered whilst playing badminton.
ST ANTHONY’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE – DEERAGUN
Japanese Immersion Program The first Japanese Bilingual Program
demonstrate high levels of intercultural
in North Queensland was launched
competence and sensitivity, including more
at St Anthony’s Catholic College,
positive attitudes towards other cultures.
Deeragun to Year 1 students this year.
The students have already shown so
The College staff have spent the last few
much progress in only one term, and St
years researching Bilingual Language
Anthony’s Catholic College is very excited
programs, which included numerous
to see what the rest of the year will bring.
visits to bilingual schools in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. Under the St Anthony’s model, students spend half their day in the Japanese program and the other half in the English program. Schools that have a similar program in place have found that the bilingual program strengthens the learners’ ability to process information, which prepares them for higher level thinking skills and enhanced brain development. It has been shown that students are able to
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INNOVATIONS IN LEARNING & TEACHING SOUTHERN CROSS CATHOLIC COLLEGE – ANNANDALE
Musical instruments replace classroom music lessons At Southern Cross Catholic College,
proven benefits to learning that are
Annandale, Year 4 students
associated with the students learning
are participating in a music
a musical instrument,” Greg says.
immersion program, in place of traditional classroom music.
ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – MOUNT ISA
Learning Teams support our students
“The students and staff are very excited about this unique approach to music
Each student is learning either a stringed or
tuition and students will have several
woodwind/brass instrument in Semester 1
opportunities to perform in front of
led by expert tutors, with the class coming
an audience throughout the year.”
St Joseph’s Catholic School, Mount Isa has introduced a team approach to support positive outcomes for their students in each year level.
together as an ensemble. They will then
Learning Team meetings are held
learn a different instrument in Semester 2.
every Thursday, providing a weekly
College Principal, Greg Cameron, says
opportunity for year level teachers and school officers to discuss
the program is a real hands on initiative
a range of topics and explore
that still fully meets the requirements of the Australian Curriculum.
opportunities for their students.
“The instrumental instruction will carry
Principal Helen Wade said topics covered include adjustments to
through to Year 5, and our hope is that
learning plans, data analysis, student
it will lead to an orchestral program for
profiles and management, and
the College, not to mention all of the
upcoming events. Inclusive Education staff, Indigenous Education Workers
COLUMBA CATHOLIC COLLEGE – CHARTERS TOWERS
and visiting specialist staff such as
STEM club gets creative at Columba
are also available to attend the
Students of the St Mary’s ( junior)
and 3D printing. By using these two
campus at Columba Catholic College,
components, it allowed for mathematical
Charters Towers get the opportunity to
problem-solving and design development
be creative by engaging in a lunchtime
through the use of digital technologies.
STEM club (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics).
hour to focus on improvement, share their knowledge and their students,” Helen says.
will be entered into the Australian
Through a range of design, experimentation
STEM Video Game Challenge.
up to 30 metres high upon launch!
our teams to have a weekly half
reflect on the wellbeing of
science and built their own water rockets.
appealing rocket. Some rockets reached
“It has been really beneficial for
coding to design video games. Teams have been formed and the games
the highest, fastest and most aesthetically
meetings to provide expert advice.
Term 1 and 2 will see the students using
In 2019, students explored basic rocket
and testing procedures, they constructed
the Speech Language Pathologist,
Being able to try new things, test theories and think more creatively, can aid in the learning process. The students have thoroughly embraced STEM and have
Students also explored the world of
been working diligently to collaborate
CAD (computer-aided design) software
and produce different designs.
The measure of love is love without measure St Francis of Sales
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INNOVATIONS IN LEARNING & TEACHING ST CATHERINE’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE – THE WHITSUNDAYS
St Catherine’s leads the way with ALPHA Program St Catherine’s Catholic College, The
and promotes their higher order learning
the ability to specialise in a range of
Whitsundays Secondary Teacher Sooraj
that can be monitored and measured to
subject areas, we are bringing that
Fowdar has developed an integrated
achieve more project-based learning.
creativity back for our students.”
“Student’s perspectives won’t be
The ALPHA project will be sponsored
shallow or linear,” Mr Fowdar says.
by Townsville Catholic Education and
program for talented students at the school. ALPHA (Advance Learning Programme for High Achievers) targets students at the College who are excelling in Year 7 and 8 in core subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Digital and Design Technologies and English
“They will be deep thinkers. Just like Van Gough and Leonardo Da Vinci who were creative minds that had
encourages participants to be lifelong learners by managing complex ways of thinking and working, managing change and the transfer of skills to new contexts. The unit will incorporate subjects such as Science and Engineering, Mathematics, Graphic Design, Digital Technologies, INTAD, English, Visual Arts, Food and Nutrition and Religion and is expected to launch this year in Semester 2 as an elective subject. College Principal Luke Thomson said he was excited to see the project launch later this year.
ST MARGARET MARY’S COLLEGE – HYDE PARK
Social Media Ambassadors Written by students; Tahlia,
this role does come with responsibilities.
Before taking over the school Instagram
Jessica, Hannah and Nisha
If our role takes us out of class, we have
account late last year we had approximately
to catch up on any work that we miss.
140 followers. After a term in control, we now
We also have to be aware of what we are
have over 400. This following is from current
posting, making sure that we don’t give out
and past students as well as their parents
the wrong message. We take this position
and even some prospective Maggies getting
seriously but still enjoy the responsibility and
a look at their new school. We would like to
teamwork that comes along with our role.
think that this is all due to the insight and
And of course, we also enjoy the creativity
unique perspective that we as students offer.
Social Media today, has a huge influence on the current generation, it's how most of us communicate with our friends and the world. Social media allows us to stay informed on issues from around the world, but on a more personal note, it allows us to connect with people. Although some people see social media as a distraction for teens, we just see it as the way we communicate
involved with the Instagram platform.
Follow St Margaret Mary’s College – @smmctsv1
with each other. Using social media allows us to feel like we are a part of something bigger than our immediate circles. Last year, when our Technologies teacher asked us if we would like to run our College Instagram account, we jumped at the chance. We were encouraged by the level of trust placed on us by the school. Within our role of Social Media Ambassadors, we document important events in our school for Instagram. We also do shoutouts to school staff and give our followers an insight into the life of a Maggie’s student. Being Ambassadors is a fun experience, but
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INNOVATIONS IN LEARNING & TEACHING ST CLARE'S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – BURDELL
Special Project – 3D Printing Our special projects group designed
got so into it though, I spent nearly 5 hours
and printed 3D models. I investigated
of home time improving my design.
1300 Smiles by exploring Google Earth and researching the height, length and width of the Stadium. I also investigated the space needed between the rows of seats and the dimensions of a footy field and goal posts. After some planning I set about creating the stadium on TinkerCAD. There were definitely challenges along the way e.g. the seats were too small, the rows had to be replicated, grouped and
I learned a lot about construction, modelling, planning and patience using the process of Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create and Improve. It was a lot of fun. If you have spare time and patience I would recommend trying something like this. It will definitely be a memory that will stay with me for the rest of my life. Seungbeom (David) Kim Y E A R 5 S T C L A R E ’ S C AT H O L I C S C H O O L
rotated, and the field fence was tricky. I
Ready to Learn The 2020 school year started off great
with their children when they were young
for our new young students, with every
to help them develop literacy skills and
Preppie in the Townsville Diocese
learn about the world around them.
receiving a Welcome to Prep pack to support a smooth transition to school life.
love of reading. Children learn that books
bag, book, bookmark and water bottle.
can take them on a journey to exciting
Townsville Catholic Education Director
places and new adventures,” he says.
says the picture book was a good way to encourage a love of reading. He urged parents to read aloud and share stories
Building resilience through community partnership Ryan Catholic College has partnered
“We are adopting the program within
with the NQ Toyota Cowboys to
our Catholic perspectives and the
implement The Resilience Project
Ryan Catholic College Mission,” Anita
to students in Prep to Year 10.
says. “It is an exciting, well-resourced program tailored for each year level.”
emotionally engaging programs to
“Teachers implement the lessons in
build resilience and happiness.
the way that suit their classes, and this
Ryan Catholic College Assistant Principal – Religious Education (Years 5-12), Anita Livingston, says the program is
is complemented by presenters from The Resilience Project addressing our students and providing resources.”
integrated into the College curriculum,
The NQ Toyota Cowboys are supporting
offering students specific strategies
the program through advocacy and
and tools that they can use for their
subsidisation for project resources.
whole life to promote wellbeing.
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child nightly is a wonderful way to foster a
The prep packs included a drawstring
of Learning and Teaching, Peter Stower
The Resilience Project delivers
“Parents making time to read to their
The pack also included tips for parents pointing out that children learn words and language skills from listening and engaging in stories, songs and conversations.
INNOVATIONS IN FAITH LEADERSHIP
Surface to Deep Learning in Religious Education: A Model for Future Success Embracing a culture of excellence and
In January, over 600 staff from across
Director of Catholic Identity and Indigenous
engaging with high impact strategies
the diocese participated in Professional
Education Services Louise Vella-Cox noted
for effective learning and teaching in
Learning which centred on evidence-
that, “this is an optimum time for schools
the Religious Education classroom is at
based research strategies to move
and teachers of Religion to transfer key
the centre of the Religious Education
students from surface learning to deep
learnings into meaningful and relevant
Team’s work in curriculum design in
learning using Learning Intentions and
assessment for life-long learning. Ideally,
2020. Partnering with research fellow
Success Criteria as the vehicle. Using
within our Catholic system, this is what we
Luke Mandouit from the Science of
this methodology, we are driven to create
want all of our students to experience.”
Learning Centre at the Melbourne School
relevant and engaging learning experiences
of Education, we are encountering
for students through rich formative and
new ways of navigating the Religion
summative assessment design; enabling
curriculum in our classrooms.
all learners to achieve learning success.
Further work in this learning space will continue in 2020 as we move towards engaging students in the assessment design process.
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INNOVATIONS IN COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Student Wellbeing and Protection is our number 1 priority in our schools The Student Protection team is
line with Standard 7 of the National Child
continuously working with all of our schools
Safe Standards, a key recommendation
to provide additional training opportunities
of the Royal Commission into Institutional
for students, staff and parents.
Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
All non-state schools are required to have two identified 'Safe People' in each school
LOVE BiTES
who are available for all students to speak
Townsville Catholic Education have secured
to if they are concerned about their safety
additional funding from the Queensland
at home, school or in the community.
Catholic Education Commission to deliver the LOVE BiTES program to all rural,
This year, our annual Safe Person's training day will undertake a whole day training focussed on domestic and family violence, a prominent issue in society which affects the safety of children and young people. Members of the Queensland Police Service and other non-government services, will join the Townsville Catholic Education Student Protection team to provide this training opportunity for over sixty staff.
regional and remote secondary schools in the Townsville Diocese. LOVE BiTES aims to provide young people with a safe environment to examine, discuss and explore respectful relationships. All LOVE BiTES programming takes a strength-based approach and views young people as active participants who are able to make choices for themselves and their relationships when supported
The need to ensure that our staff are
with information and opportunity for
skill
equipped with the knowledge, skills and
development. Plans are already underway
awareness to keep children safe through
for the rollout of this education opportunity
continual education and training is in
for all rural, regional and remote schools.
Christie Sinclair, Katherine Olsen and Alyse Howard
Our Emerging Leaders shine
More than 600 students from secondary
sets high expectations of our Indigenous
colleges across the Diocese will join the
students and families whilst rewarding and
program this year. The program encourages
promoting a culture of high attendance,
student attendance, academic improvement
academic improvement and students fully
and engagement, with students moving
engaged in their schooling."
through incentive stages each year
Krista O’Connor
An education in the fullness of humanity should be the defining feature of Catholic schools
based on their completion of criteria
Indigenous Education Adviser
Pope Francis
Townsville Catholic Education last year
under the pillars of attendance, academic
welcomed an Australian Government
achievement and engagement. It has
funding boost of $4.91M to extend
received excellent support from secondary
the successful Emerging Leaders
Catholic school students and staff and
Incentive Scheme Program to more
has already shown measurable success.
Indigenous students until 2021.
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"The Emerging Leaders Incentive Scheme
INNOVATIONS IN COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Healthy Minds The Healthy Minds Project was first
students’ awareness of the importance of
launched in 2018 and aims to empower
developing healthy minds for teenagers
students to lead their school communities
while developing their skills to be leaders
in wellbeing and resilience initiatives.
of change within their respective schools.
The project is funded by the Black Dog Ride and the Rotary Club Townsville Central. This Project has been so successful that it continues to be run annually and is in its third year this year.
GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC SCHOOL – RASMUSSEN
Healthy Minds Project Facilitator, Tracy Blanchard from Ryan Catholic College, Kirwan says students were grateful to be part of this initiative and by attending the workshops, they will lead
Up to ten students from senior years (Year
a significant community impact project
10 and 11) from different Townsville schools
in their own school including education
are invited to attend a two day workshop.
and awareness of mental wellbeing.
The engaging and interactive sessions raise
Sherlock shines to promote good behaviour In 2019, staff at Good Shepherd Catholic School in Rasmussen recognised that the school rules and behaviour management processes in place needed reviewing and updating. A Behaviour Management Advisory Behaviour Coach Linda Llewellyn
Mulkadee
was contacted to work with the
The 15th Annual Mulkadee Youth Arts
committee. After a few meetings and
Festival will be held from Monday 20 –
some training, the GSCS Way was
Friday 24 July, 2020. The Mulkadee Youth
born! The GSCS Way stands for Give
Arts Festival is the only event of its kind
My Best; Show Respect; Compassion
in Australia, offering a week-long program
and Care; Safe, Responsible and Fair.
of artistic workshops led by professional
The GSCS Way Behaviour Matrix
instructors in the areas of choir, dance,
explicitly teaches students
drama, band, guitar and strings. This
expected behaviour in all areas
year's theme will be The Wizard of Oz!
of our school. Sherlock the Sheep
More than 1,000 students (Years 4-12) and
was also introduced to the school
teachers from Catholic schools throughout
community at our first assembly in
the Townsville Diocese will participate in
2020. Sherlock is always looking for
workshops, culminating in a concert at the
people who are following the GSCS
Townsville Entertainment and Convention
Way. Students are recognised and
Centre. Children from rural and remote
given special praise notes which are
based schools will travel to Townsville
added to the golden boxes in their
for this week-long event. Students will
classrooms. These boxes are brought
be exposed to professional training,
to Assembly where three students
over and above the school curriculum.
Committee was formed and Positive
are drawn out by Sherlock to win a seat at the VIP Table with Sherlock and the school leadership team.
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INNOVATIONS IN COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Purposeful Play Children learn best when they are engaged
independently or collaboratively. While
in experiences that appeal to their senses,
the spaces are flexible, there are clear
promote movement, allow for flexibility
expectations about how the spaces
and choice and are open-ended enough to
are used which provides students
nurture their imagination and creativity.
with the structure they need to be
Play can be highly structured, teacher guided, child initiated or completely
able to take risks (try something new) in a safe supportive environment.
unstructured and still very beneficial to
Purposeful play is enhanced by teachers
a child’s learning journey. Play is often
giving considered thought about the
a time where children explore ways
learning environment and the resources
that make them feel safe, and make
available to students. Children need to
sense of their prior knowledge through
access opportunities for learning that
new understandings and experiences.
accommodate their diverse needs and
Play develops children’s sense of
allows them to meet the curriculum
self, their relationships with others
requirements in a timely and engaging way.
and with the world around them.
ST JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – MUNDINGBURRA
The sky is the limit
Flexible Learning spaces allow students to have a choice in how they engage in learning experiences, to move between learning activities and to work
For St Joseph's Catholic School, Mundingburra students, 2020 is the "Year to Soar". Students, staff and families are being asked to face challenges and let these challenges make them stronger. It is by aiming high and having high expectations of ourselves that we can truly achieve great things and overcome obstacles in life. "When we take on challenge we will always grow stronger. We need to have high expectations for ourselves and strive to be the best people we can be.
ST MARY’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – BOWEN
Bowen Secret Agent Society St Mary’s Catholic School, Bowen has
“Throughout the Program, children
implemented a pilot Secret Agent Society
learn how to recognise and manage
(SAS) Program which helps children learn
their own feelings, cope with change,
how to feel happier, calmer and braver.
detect other people’s emotions, talk and
The program is designed to improve children’s emotional regulation and social
play with others and deal with bullying,” School Principal, Colette Williams says.
skills by engaging them with its espionage-
“It features an animated 'secret agent'
themed games and eye-catching resources.
computer game as well as parent and
SAS is a fun, small group program being
teacher resources and information
run in classrooms in conjunction with
sessions to encourage children to use
Adaptive Strategies North Queensland.
their new skills at home and at school."
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Our challenge in 2020 is to soar to new heights." principal Justen Orford says. Isaiah 40:31 – "...those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
INNOVATIONS IN STEWARDSHIP ST MARGARET MARY’S COLLEGE – HYDE PARK
An Education for Gen Z Members of Gen Z – loosely, people
“It has been a good opportunity to
born from 1995 to 2010, are true digital
work out what I wanted to do in the
natives: from their earliest youth, they
future,” Zara says. “The first subject is
have been exposed to the internet, to
free and you can make sure that you
social networks, and to mobile systems.
have chosen the right pathway.”
St Margaret Mary’s College, Hyde Park
Year 11 and 12 students are also
is tailoring a flexible Senior Schooling
participating in Flexi-Wednesday
experience for their Gen Z students. This
opportunities such as structured tutorials,
includes flexible learning opportunities,
TAFE, work experience opportunities,
digital platforms and classroom approaches.
Tertiary programs and online learning.
Year 11 student, Zara Roberts has engaged
“Our Gen Z students are engaged in the
with her passion for Languages by
world and know how to access it through
studying Japanese at the College and
technology. We continue to engage
adding the study of Chinese through
students through their learning journey by
Distance Education. Additionally, Zara
catering to their chosen
has enrolled in the CQU Start Uni Now
pathway,” Deputy
(SUN) program. This has provided her with
Principal, Kath
the opportunity to study as a University
Hunter says.
student, online and in a self-paced manner.
BURDEKIN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL – AYR
Gianna’s passion scores SBA in the Burdekin Year 10 student, Gianna Viero, has the best
It was Gianna’s initiative to complete
of both worlds. She is starting the trade of
work experience that secured her
her dreams while completing high school
this opportunity. It didn’t take long for
at Burdekin Catholic High School, Ayr
the supervisors at AgNorth to realise they had a hard-working young lady
Gianna recently signed up as a
who was passionate about working
school-based apprentice (SBA) at
with heavy machinery. Gianna is one
AgNorth, completing a Certificate III
of thirteen SBAs at Burdekin Catholic
in Engineering – Mechanical Trade.
High School. The SBAs are completing
AgNorth is an award-winning Case IH
qualifications ranging from Hospitality,
(International Harvester) dealer in Ayr.
Retail and Animal Studies to Mechanics.
R Townsville Catholic T Did you Education is the only O educational know?! system
inTownsville Queensland that is Catholic Education is the only a Registered Training educational system in Queensland that is a Registered Training Organisation Organisation (RTO) (RTO) servicing all of its schools. servicing all of its As the RTO for the Townsville schools. Townsville Diocese, we provide support services to students and schools with: Catholic Education is • Access to a range of fee free VET the only educational qualifications to school students system in Queensland • Collaboration across schools for thatVETis a Registered qualification delivery Training Organisation • VET teacher professional development (RTO) servicing all of • Resource development and funding to support quality course its schools. Townsville delivery and assessment Catholic Education is • Compliance with legislative and the onlyrequirements educational educational for VET system inwithQueensland • Partnerships employers, community organisations and other external that is a Registered agencies, including other RTOs. Training Organisation 5 (RTO) servicing all 1of
INNOVATIONS IN STEWARDSHIP ST BENEDICT'S CATHOLIC SCHOOL – SHAW
Making school life sustainable St Benedict’s Catholic School, Shaw
In early 2019, St Benedict’s received
through their eProjects (Environmental
is embracing sustainable practices
a Six Green Star Rating by the Green
Projects) offered to every year level aiming
for the natural and built environment
Building Council of Australia for the school
to inform and motivate students to care for
to foster a love for creation.
infrastructure. The Green Star rating
the environment while working within the
acknowledges the clever design and
Australian Curriculum. Helping to create
sustainable practices such as rainwater
real-life connections and address real-
collection, bore water, solar panels,
world concerns regarding sustainability,
indoor noise reduction (Autex Tiling),
eProjects provide opportunities to
ambient natural light and passive cooling
problem solve and engage in critical
through wide windows and doors. The
thinking and hands-on learning.
As Townsville’s newest Catholic school, St Benedict’s identified the unique opportunity to instil sustainable practices within their school community and the teaching and learning from the very beginning. The school has incorporated the building of sustainable infrastructures, has embedded sustainable practices
design of the school also improves the sense of wellbeing and engagement.
and learning within their curriculum, and
Sustainable practices are embedded
responded to authentic, engaging, and
within the curriculum for all year levels
complex problems through their eProjects.
from Prep to Year 6. They achieve this
Gumburu Environmental Education Centre celebrates 25 years The Gumburu Environmental Education
The Environmental Awareness Advisory
Centre is located in the World Heritage
Committee meets every term to discuss
Listed Paluma rainforest, approximately
ways of promoting our care for creation,
90 minutes drive north of Townsville.
how to upskill our teachers and how
The centre is managed by Townsville
to provide educational, spiritual and
Catholic Education with students
creational opportunities for our students.
regularly visiting the beautiful location for retreats and environmental education. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the opening of the centre which has provided families with a spiritual, intellectual, emotional, physical and social experience for those that assist in the development of a life-long caring stewardship of the environment. Since it opened its doors in 1995, more than 45,000 people have experienced the tranquility of Gumburu.
16
INNOVATIONS IN STEWARDSHIP
School Boards explore their role as wisdom leaders School Board members from around the diocese met in Townsville in late February, to work with author Dr Dan White in exploring School Improvement in a Catholic School and the role of the Board in this. The annual formation session is an opportunity for board members to develop their understanding of the vision and mission of Catholic schools. Dr White is a former Executive Director of Catholic Schools in NSW, and brought a wealth of knowledge and experience
First day of Term 2
Monday 20 April
ANZAC Day
Saturday 25 April
Feast of St Catherine of Siena
Wednesday 29 April
Labour Day Public Holiday
Monday 4 May
Mother’s Day
Sunday 10 May
NAPLAN Testing Window
12 May – 22 May
Mary Help of Christians
Sunday 24 May
National Sorry Day
Tuesday 26 May
National Reconciliation Week
27 May – 3 June
Mabo Day
Wednesday 3 June
Feast of St Marcellin Champagnat
Saturday 6 June
Trinity Sunday
Sunday 7 June
Corpus Christi
Thursday 11 June
Last Day of Term 2
Friday 26 June
Term 2 Dates
to the enthusiastic attendees.
17
LOVE OUR NORTHERN SCHOOLS
Gilroy Santa Maria College – Ingham Gilroy Santa Maria is incredibly proud
views of the depiction of body image in
with her speech titled, "Social Media",
of the efforts in which students Joshua
young people in society. Patrick Bortolanza
which was written about the impact social
Spina, Alicia Galipo, Patrick Bortolanza
won the award for Public Speaking with
media has on our society. Emily will move
and Emily Firth presented themselves
his hilarious speech titled, " Australian
ahead and compete in the district final.
in the Lions Youth Of the Year Contest
Slang" which impressed the judges with
this term. This year, the competition
his comical expression and delivery. Emily
was hosted by the Lower Herbert Lions
Firth, was awarded the overall winner
Club at Lucinda. The judges on the
Gilroy Santa Maria College would like to thank their Teacher Ms Mastrippolito for assisting the students with this event.
panel consisted of well known council members, Mary Brown, Andrew Lancini and Andrew Cripps, who spoke very highly of the way the students conducted themselves in their interviews and in their prepared speeches, labelling them, “outstanding young citizens of our shire”. Joshua Spina spoke about "Holden: The Inevitable Death of an Australian Icon" which amazed the audience with economical statistics and knowledge. Alicia Galipo spoke about "Body Image" and impressed the crowd with her modern day
St Teresa’s College – Abergowrie St Teresa’s College has continued to
Each mentor group consists of students
emotionally. Staff have seen the positive
develop its Emerging Leaders program
from each year level along with a
influence that these groups are having
structure by introducing vertical
dedicated staff member. Students are
as students feel comfortable with a
Mentor groups as part of the College’s
encouraged to utilise their mentors
familiar group of support people.
commitment to student wellbeing.
for support both academically and
The senior students have become an integral part in the Mentor Program. All Year 12 students participated in a two-day mentor training workshop where they were equipped with the skills to guide and mentor the junior members of the College. The Year 12 students have embraced their new roles within the College with a sense of responsibility to their younger brothers and are being positive role models within the College, regularly checking in with other students in their groups and mentoring them in all areas of culture, academic and engagement throughout the school.
18
LOVE OUR NORTHERN SCHOOLS
St Peter’s Catholic School – Halifax St Peter’s was lucky to have Dexter and
and students enjoyed getting out onto the
cricket pitches for the morning’s
Katie’s dad, Mr Britton, take time off from
oval and batting and bowling to each other.
cricket session. There is no stopping
his job at Wilmar Sugar to come to the school and engage with the Year 3 to 6 students in the game of cricket. Mr Britton
More recently Mr Britton grabbed the
Friday cricket at St Peter’s.
school’s push mower and mowed
is using the Woolworths Cricket Blast Program to assist him teach students the skills required to play and enjoy cricket. The first cricket skill session saw Mr Britton having to make a few adjustments due to the extreme heat. Students listened to information on the history of cricket and then practised a few skills under cover. The next week Mr Britton came in the morning to take advantage of the cooler weather. Of course it decided to rain just as the Year 5/6 students made their way to the oval. Luckily the shower did not last long
Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School – Ingham This year at Our Lady of Lourdes, children are participating in a wellbeing program to help with self-regulation and positive thoughts. The school has adopted a whole-school approach which focuses on breathing, mindfulness, meditation, Yoga and gratitude strategies as well as participation in the Zones of Regulation program and Circle Time. Lunchtime activities such as high-intensity workouts, dance, stretching, Yoga, cooking, craft and pay it forward tasks are offered to children. This program will help to foster positive relationships, positive attitudes, confidence, resilience and give children the skills needed to support the body and mind. Staff wellbeing is also a focus for our school this year.
Humble yourselves, therefore, underGods mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time 1 Peter 5:6
19
LOVE OUR SOUTHERN SCHOOLS
St Mary’s Catholic School – Bowen Last year, the school embarked on a
As you drive down Poole Street, you
journey to update their school logo.
cannot help but notice the new bright blue
The new logo incorporates Catholic
sign. The introduction of the colour blue
Identity, Indigenous spirituality and
was specifically chosen, as blue is the
reflects the school Charism.
traditional colour for our Mother Mary. The
The school community journeyed together as they shared, discussed, reviewed
logo and colour selection brings a new freshness and vitality to the school brand.
and created many ideas, which were
The new school logo is a recontextualised
then shared with the designers. The
reimagining of the previous logo, which
logo and colour selection has received
reflects who the school is. Principal,
very positive feedback from the entire
Colette Williams said the school could
school and wider community.
not be happier with the end result.
St Francis School – Ayr St Francis School was successful in
The coding club hopes to commence
winning a grant that has enabled
visits to the local day care centres where
them to upgrade their robotics
they will be able to share their knowledge
being used by the coding club.
and skills with children in readiness for
The grant, which was worth just over $3000, allowed the school to buy enough robotics to use in a number of classrooms. These kits give the students an endless source of fun while also developing
school. It also develops confidence and reinforces what has been learnt in class. Mr John Eade, the school’s e-Learning guide, works with the coding club as part of St Francis’ gifted and talented program.
key skills in the process of coding.
St John Bosco Catholic School – Collinsville This year at St John Bosco’s in Collinsville,
The new chaplain, Mrs Georgie Stewart,
Principal Ms Eleanor Niland is very excited
brings a wealth of experience with her into
to introduce a new position into the
this position and the school is excited to
school – school chaplain! The role of the
see this role further develop into the future.
school chaplain involves providing pastoral support to school students and their families. In particular, the chaplain will be:
She has already established a parent ‘coffee and catch up’ session each week for the parents in the community. This
• Providing emotional, social and
allows families a chance to get to know
spiritual support to students
each other and talk about what’s going
• Supporting families of the school and wider community (for example,
for maintaining health and wellbeing.
families that are new to the school
She has also been working with some of
or may be experiencing hardship)
the students to develop their own health
• Being involved in school and community events which promote the school spirit and Catholic ethos
20
on in their lives, which is so important
and wellbeing, including some basic yoga with the Year 4, 5 & 6 students. St John Bosco's is looking forward to seeing what is next on the cards for the school!
LOVE OUR TOWNSVILLE SCHOOLS
St Michael’s Catholic School – Palm Island This term, St Michael's Catholic School
St Michael's Catholic School put down their
and the St Anne's parish community,
books for some real life learning on Friday
celebrated Ash Wednesday.
28th of February, when they participated
It was a special liturgy combining a smoking ceremony, led by Mr Archie Fraser, and the reception of ashes. Each class received a Project Compassion box and a baby hibiscus to nurture during Lent.
in the annual Clean Up Australia Day for Schools. Ms Janet Wigan promoted the whole school activity and led the charge to the beach with Year 4 and 5. The children were very proud of their work!
St Colman’s School – Home Hill The St Colman’s School community gathered at St Colman’s Church for a prayer celebration to ask God’s blessing upon the Year 6 Student Leader and the journey the school will embark on together in 2020. The parents of Jayel were invited to
Marian Catholic School – Currajong
come forward to pin her leadership
Marian Green Guardians will be very busy
badge on her senior shirt. The St Colman’s School community is looking forward to watching Jayel fulfill her leadership pledge she made to the community throughout 2020.
Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.
this year. They have worms to feed and plants to water, not to mention the paper and cardboard which needs to be recycled. Marian GG’s are actively encouraging other students to recycle, reduce and reuse. New recycling bins have been introduced into the eating areas for soft plastics, composting bins for food scraps and blue bins for bottles. There is a bin for used batteries as well! Thirty students signed up this year to make a difference at Marian and are very keen to look after the worm cafe. This term, senior students headed off to Reef HQ to participate in the Eco Warriors Challenge.
Mother Teresa
21
LOVE OUR TOWNSVILLE SCHOOLS
Holy Spirit Catholic School – Cranbrook Holy Spirit Catholic School welcomed Valentine Holmes as their 2020 Adopt-a-Cowboy. For his first visit to the school, Prep students showed off their counting skills in a number of activities, including some impressive gym moves. The Year 2 students spoke to Mr Holmes about healthy eating and even heard all about what he gets to eat on game day! Then they got to show off their ball skills. Holy Spirit loved having Mr Holmes visit and look forward to him joining the school community again. Go Cowboys!
Good Shepherd Catholic School – Rasmussen Good Shepherd Catholic School is excited
Kyle recently visited each class on
Kyle will spend time across year levels
to welcome back fan favourite Kyle Feldt
his first visit for the year, read with
on his visits and will talk with students
as their Adopt-a-Cowboy in 2020.
the Prep students and checked out
about the importance of healthy eating
their new senior playground.
and exercising. He also spoke with senior students about teamwork and leadership.
22
LOVE OUR WESTERN SCHOOLS
Good Shepherd Catholic College – Mount Isa In December, 23 students and adults
like no other. It was an opportunity to take
achieves anything being complacent in
attended the Australian Catholic Youth
a step forward, push the boundaries and
life. The group of students and adults look
Festival (ACYF) in Perth, Western
get out of their comfort zones; nobody
forward to attending the next ACYF in 2021.
Australia. For many, this was their first ever ACYF and the first step in their journey with God. After 20 long hours of travel the group arrived in Perth. For those who were new to the church, the first day of ACYF was a nervous time, however after the first minute, it is safe to say everybody felt right at home. All three days of ACYF were an opportunity for the group to adapt their attitude with family, friends, themselves and God. The days flew by, however the lessons learnt and memories made will be remembered for a lifetime. Reflecting on ACYF, it is a life changing experience
St Francis Catholic School – Hughenden Prep, Year 1/2 and Year 3/4 classes have
They know about the seven characteristics
been busy learning about the life stages
of plants and all the different ways seeds
of plants. They have planted seeds
are dispersed. Students are really enjoying
and watched them grow into plants.
their Science lessons this term and
Some have grown quicker than others, some have not grown at all. They have added lots of new words to their vocabulary
have been using time-lapse photography to track the growth of the plants.
such as germination, photosynthesis, sprouts and embryo. Students have learnt to name the trees in their schoolyard and in their local community.
St Patrick’s Catholic School – Winton The St Patrick’s School candle reminds the
more batteries they used, the brighter
students, staff, parents and local Winton
their bulbs shone. Then, during the
community that Jesus is the light of the
students’ religion lessons, the class
world and He shows his followers the way.
engaged in group discussions, where
In their science lesson this term, the students in the Year 3 to 6 class have focused on how lightbulbs, gadgets and machines are powered. The students
they came to the realisation that just like batteries and bulbs, the more we do to help and be kind to others, the brighter our love and goodness shines through.
made models to investigate the basics of battery power and discovered that the
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DIOCESE OF TOWNSVILLE CATHOLIC EDUCATION
Accepting Year 7 Enrolments for 2021
Enrol now!
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