16 May 2019

Newsletter Articles

Important Dates

Gilroy on the Go

Please Label Belongings

Everyday items are handed into the office; hats, jumpers, lunchboxes, pencil cases and many other things. Please label all of your child’s belongings as we love to return them to their rightful owners.

Hairspray

Gilroy Santa Maria’s 2019 Musical is Done and Dusted.

Last week on Thursday and Friday, 50 of Gilroy’s most talented students showcased their skills in the GSM Musical Hairspray. With the help of Sandra La Rosa’s Hair and Beauty students, the cast and chorus put on three amazing shows, Thursday morning, Thursday night and Friday night. If you had the opportunity to watch one of these three performances, you will agree that they did an absolutory remarkable job.

I still cannot believe that it is already over! The hard work that all the students put in for the past few months really paid off and they should be very proud of themselves. Seeing the students up there on the stage enjoying themselves immensely captivated every audience that they performed in front of. They were a pleasure to work with and I hope that in 2021 they put their hands up again to bring another musical to life.

I would like to thank all the parents and staff members that assisted the students or myself during this time, from creating props to printing programs to dropping off students at rehearsals. A special thank you to Vera Di Bella and her band for all their work creating the sound that we all enjoyed during the shows; Christine Stephenson for all the promotional work, the programs and the backdrops and Brenda Oats for the amazing costumes that she sourced and created for this production. Those fat suits were amazing, and I know that they fooled members of the audience. Although my biggest thank you must go to Phoebe Slater for all her help. I know that all the students involved in the musical would agree, that she kept me very sane and did an amazing job all round, I hope I have the opportunity to work with her again on another project in the future.

Thank you again and remember that you can’t stop the beat!

Linley Cerqui

Interhouse Cross Country

Food & Tech

Yr 10 students have started bread making with their first batch of cheese and bacon rolls. This term they are designing their own bread flavours and will work on submitting a proposal for a 'tear and share' loaf popular at bakeries. Well done to the Yr 10 students for learning the skill of proving dough and rolling bread.

Danielle Mastrippolito

Principal

Dear Gilroy Santa Maria College Community

As predicted, it’s been a very busy time at school over the last couple of weeks. It was just fantastic to see the musical “Hairspray” come together. It was a wonderful show and deservedly has received great reviews. Thanks to everyone who contributed. Brenda Oats designed, collected and made many of the costumes and Christine Stephenson was responsible for the backdrops, the program and promotional material. One of the features of the musical was the great dancing. Phoebe Slater and Chantal Bullock were responsible in bringing out the best of our talented dance troupe, Phoebe also was a huge support as Assistant Director. The music in “Hairspray” is awesome and the band really brought the songs to life. Vera Di Bella coordinated the band and did such a wonderful job in organising everything musical.

Like every musical, it takes a director/producer/counsellor/motivator to pull the show together. Our drama teacher Linley Cerqui did an incredible job. Linley and her crew, due to their commitment and generosity, have given our kids the opportunity to experience something they will remember forever and I’m incredibly grateful and appreciative of everyone involved.

Finally, I want to acknowledge and congratulate the cast. The performances over the two days were the culmination of a journey. They were very committed to rehearsals and all their hard work was obvious in the performances they put on. I do hope the younger ones in our cast stay enthused for the next musical in 2021. I’m sure they would have inspired some others in the audience with their obvious enjoyment. It is great that we have such events as musicals as they give an opportunity for children of all interests and talents to shine. Thanks also to the many other students, staff and parents who helped with props, backstage, make-up, ticket sales and many other tasks that made such a great school and community event.

There is also a hive of activity with three building projects “on the go” currently. Next week we formally move into the refurbished Multipurpose Hall. It’s been a long time coming but I’m sure everyone will be impressed when they see it. We have decided to call the refurbished building the “Santa Maria Centre” as we trust it will be a well-used facility by our community for years to come. Another project is the construction of a new Hospitality Centre including a dining area and four new classrooms. This will be constructed next to G Block where the old drama hall was located. This project also includes the construction of a new toilet block next to S Block and the demolition of M Block (the old Santa Maria building).

The final building project is our current application to build a new library and resource hub. Our plan is to demolish (in some cases it is more economical to build new facilities than refurbish older ones) the existing building where the library, student support staff offices and two classrooms are located and build a new facility that ensures our students and staff can access the latest technology, equipment and spaces to allow for flexible and engaging teaching and learning opportunities. The hub will be an inviting place to work and study, allows for independent and group work and gives our students convenient access to various student support staff we have here at Gilroy. It is an exciting application and with the full support of the Townsville Catholic Education Office, we have applied for a grant to build it. In fact, visitors from the Capital Grant Committee visited our school this week so we could show them the components of our project and reasons for the application.

Last week our Cross Country Team competed in the Interschool Cross Country at Abergowrie. They ran well with our girls again taking out the trophy. We had seven students take out Age Champions and many others who will represent Herbert River at the NQ Trials next week in Townsville. Congratulations to all our team members. I also take this opportunity to thank Mrs Erin Cerutti, our Sports Coordinator for running such an enjoyable albeit challenging GSM Cross Country two weeks ago. It was a new course around the farms and headlands near our school. The level of participation was terrific among our students and this was very rewarding for all the staff that were part of the organisation.

This week our Yr 7’s and 9’s have been sitting NAPLAN Testing, while our Yr 8’s are on Retreat at Quinola Lakes on the Atherton Tablelands. We have our model train club up and running, as well as an upcoming Astronomy Night. Add to that our Netball and Rugby League teams beginning to get serious for their respective QISSN and Confraternity State Carnivals. We have a lot to offer our students here at Gilroy and I’m so appreciative of the many staff who generously give their time to ensure our students have a variety of opportunities.

I trust all families were able to access their child’s Interim Report and book Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews through the Compass Parent Portal. Please let me know personally if the reports cards or interviews are causing any frustrations, I’d like to know as we are always looking to improve our school and how we operate.

God Bless

John Nuttall
jnuttall@gilroysm.catholic.edu.au

From the Acting Assistant Principal
(Administration & Curriculum)

Hello to All

The term has certainly moved into overdrive with the College running an amazing interhouse cross country event and a spectacular musical since our last newsletter. Thank you to the teachers, staff and parents who have contributed many extra hours towards these events. Our students have gained valuable experience in these activities. With the ‘Growth Mindset’ day held for Yrs 7 and 10 and a Retreat for Yr 8, it certainly highlights how students are receiving a very comprehensive education at Gilroy Santa Maria College. We are fulfilling our mission statement “to nurture the growth of the whole person in a safe, supportive and inclusive Catholic learning environment.”

Another gentle reminder to also encourage your child to take advantage of the extensive afterschool and lunchtime Academic Support offered by the college.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s progress, then please do not hesitate to contact their subject teacher or myself.

NAPLAN TESTING - Yrs 7 & 9

Yrs 7 and 9 students are currently undertaking NAPLAN testing with Language Conventions and Writing completed. It is pleasing to report that the Students certainly approached the test with the respect it deserves and did their best.

At Gilroy, NAPLAN results are used as an important part of tracking student progress. Teachers use the results to target areas where our students’ are struggling and to also build on areas where they are thriving. NAPLAN data will also be used to provide evidence to support decision making around selection of subjects in the New Senior Schooling.

Yr 6 TRANSITION PROGRAM

The first Yr 6 Transition Day has been held with a very large attendance of students. By all reports from students on the day, this was a huge success. These visits provide invaluable opportunities for the students to become familiar with our school curriculum, our environment and potential teachers for next year. Our next Transition Day is on Thursday 6 June. Any new students are most welcome to attend this session.

PARENT/TEACHER/STUDENT INTERVIEWS

Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews will be held next Thursday 23 May. Please take advantage of this opportunity to discuss your child’s progress. Bookings are essential and are open to parents on COMPASS until Wednesday 22 May. I urge you to take advantage of this opportunity to speak to the teachers who have an important role in your child’s education. Interviews are 10 minutes long and can be made between 3:10pm – 7:00pm. They will take place in the Function Room and Library. Seating and details of where teachers will be located for their interviews will be at the door of the Function room closest to the road. Please do not think that this is the only time you can contact your child’s teacher. Teachers are available via phone or email if you wish to speak to them.

COGNITIVE VERBS

As I stated in the last newsletter, the New QCE System demands that students are very aware of certain verbs called Cognitive Verbs. Teachers will use these verbs in their teaching and assessment for all subjects across all grades. It is vital that students understand what the verb is asking them to do. All verbs and their definition are in the school diary and on the walls of each classroom. The cognitive verb for this newsletter is EXPLAIN, please use this link to get to the poster.

Of particular interest is the suggested “sentence starters” which students may find useful.

God Bless

Joan Devietti

From the Assistant Principal
(Religious Education)

As I am writing this, I am looking out over the green pastures of the Quinola Lakes Camping grounds outside Malanda. Many of the Yr 8 students are kicking a few footballs around, while waiting for what smells like a glorious evening meal. There really is no other place to be. So far the weather has been fair and the students very enthusiastic. Please keep us in your prayers for a safe and enjoyable retreat and keep an eye out for some photos on our Facebook page.

We also have Youth Mass this Sunday night at 7:00pm at St Patrick’s Church. Everyone is welcome to join us.

God Bless

Christine Timms

From the Acting Assistant Principal
(Pastoral Care)

National Reconciliation Week

Every year National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is celebrated from 27 May to 3 June, which commemorates two significant milestones in our reconciliation journey, the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision. This year’s NRW theme is Grounded in Truth: Walk Together with Courage, which is exactly what we plan to do for our Reconciliation Week Liturgy, which will be held on Wednesday 29 May at 10:10 am.

All Indigenous and non-indigenous families and friends are invited to be a part of this special event as we reflect on our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. The liturgy will include the formal presentation of our Gilroy Santa Maria College Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and all guests are invited for morning tea after the liturgy.

Recycling Bins

Our College Student Representative Council (SRC) members are in charge of collecting the recyclable items from our new blue bins that have been placed around our College grounds. Not only is this better for the environment, but the money raised will go directly back to students. This term it will go towards our school CONFRO and QISSN teams so please remember to remove straws and lids and place all items in the correct bins.

Blessings

Karen Lahtinen

From the Business Manager

Term 2 school fees have now been issued and you should have already received them. If not, please contact the office ASAP. They are due 31 May 2019.

I have recently had a number of payments paid to the school bank account without a name attached so I am unable to allocate them to anything. If you have paid an amount in May towards school fees or any of the camps/excursions that are taking place, can you please contact the office.

If you are paying by direct debit, please ensure you include the family code located on your statement or the students surname and activity you are paying eg. QISSN, Yr 8 camp etc.

If you have any outstanding, fees please contact the school. Please do not let them go into arrears. As always, if for any reason you are finding it difficult to pay school fees. Please contact the Principal or myself to discuss the matter.

BANK DETAILS are as follows:

WESTPAC Ingham

BSB - 034-187
Account Number – 145 925
Name – Gilroy Santa Maria College
Detail – (Family code from statement)

Ros Giuliano

Careers

START UNI NOW (SUN)

If you are ready to take on the challenge of tertiary level study, SUN may be right for you. SUN is a CQUni initiative that allows secondary schools students to study CQUniversity units and kick-start their higher education studies whilst still in high school.

It's a great opportunity for them to sample uni life through a degree of their interest and become eligible for direct entry into an undergraduate degree at CQUniversity (excluding quota managed courses).

Applications for Term 2 are now open and high school students will have the opportunity to undertake their first SUN unit at zero cost.

Find your Future in Hinchinbrook

This exciting community event is open to all community members as a connector between those looking for future employment and training and those seeking employees locally.

This event also presents the opportunity for students, parents and other community members to connect with employers, training providers and universities to identify opportunities for future education and training, as well as raising awareness of local employment opportunities.

Yrs 9, 10, 11 and 12 will be travelling to the Tyto Conference Centre by bus to be able to make the most of this local careers expo. Food and drink will be available to purchase.

Permission forms are due back on Monday 20 May and there is no cost associated with this excursion.

Thank you

Nancy Douglas

Sports News

Cross Country 2019

On Wednesday the first day of May, the morning sun shone through long enough for Rice, McAuley and O’Meara take to the headlands at the back of Gilroy Santa Maria College to contest the Annual Inter-House Cross Country Championship. Many students did themselves and their houses proud, running (or walking) with great enthusiasm and spirit. Congratulations must go to Rice House, who just edged out O’Meara and McAuley to take out this year’s championship.

Congratulations to the following students who were announced Age Champions:

12 Yrs: Cara Elliott & Codey Masters
13 Yrs: Ella Camilleri & Bodhi Matsen
14 Yrs: Dana Kaurila & Harry Hardy
15 Yrs: Paige Benfell & Luca Adornetto
16 Yrs: Trinity Reinaudo & Josh Milani
17 Yrs and over: Akema Greenaway & Ethan Costabeber

The first six placegetters in each age group progressed to the HR Cross Country Trials held at Abergowrie on Wednesday 8 May.

The following students represented Gilroy Santa Maria College at the Inter-School Cross-Country Carnival:

This year 56 student representatives ran a 4km or 6km course with great energy and enthusiasm. Congratulations goes to our Interschool Cross Country Age Champions: Dana Kaurila, Paige Benfell, Cody Masters, Josh Milani, Cara Elliott, Kate Butcher and Akema Greenaway.

All students made their school proud, with the following students earning HR selection in the NQ Cross-Country Trials to be held on Tuesday 28 May (10:00am -2:30pm) at Bicentennial Park in Townsville.

Erin Cerutti

Academic Support

PLEASE NOTE: All students welcome for Homework, Assignments, Academic Tutoring and Organisation.

Indigenous Homework Support

Tuckshop News

VOLUNTEERS ARE ALWAYS NEEDED!

Tuckshop Volunteers are only needed to work from 8:30am to 12:00pm.

Please note: The NEW lunch times are as follows:

1st Lunch – 10:55am – 11:25am
2nd Lunch – 12:55pm finish 1:25pm

Start time is preferably 8.30 am- 12.00pm or until when you are available. Thank you and we look forward to seeing you all again this year.

If there is any query in regards to this roster or you are unavailable please contact:

Sandra Benedetto [0427 765 321] - Jodie Lino [0407 904 918]

What’s Happening in the Parish

Ingham Region Catholic Parishes Newsletter:

UP Coming Events:

• St Peter’s School Silver Circle—Saturday 18 May
• Youth Mass—Sunday 19 May 7.00pm
• Confirmation—Thursday 30 May & Friday 31 May
• Debutante Ball—Saturday 1 June
• Walk for Witness—ecumenical prayer walk through Ingham - Sunday 2 June
• Feast of St Anthony at Bemerside—Sunday 9 June

Father Damian McGrath
Parish Priest
Ingham Region Catholic Parishes

Around the District

Abergowrie College

Safer Families Community Event

Advertising with Schoolzine

Would you like to advertise in our new Schoolzine eNewsletter? Currently, Schoolzine is working diligently to source family friendly advertising sponsors and will then rebate quarterly 20% of revenue back to the school.

If you are interested in advertising either contact the school office or feel free to email Schoolzine any questions, suggestions or advertising enquiries.

Email: advertising@schoolzine.com.au
Phone: 07 5414 2361