23 February 2022

Newsletter Articles

Important Dates

Essential Emails

Food Technology

Year 7B made mini pizzas during Food Technology. The students demonstrated the importance of using hygiene while working with food and demonstrated safe knife handling skills. Pizza toppings included ham, pineapple, pepperoni, onion and capsicum. They all said they were delicious!

Late Arrivals / Early Departures / Absences

Late Arrivals

Late arrivals to school should report to Student Reception to sign in and present a note of explanation from their parents/caregivers. Homeroom teachers will contact parents when students are repeatedly late for homeroom. A note for late arrivals will be made in students’ diaries.

Early Departure

In cases of early departure, students will present a note to Student Reception (or parents will contact the school) before school begins. Students must then sign out at Student Reception before departure. If the student returns during the school day they must sign in at Student Reception on their return.

Student Absence

When students are absent from school, parents are requested to notify the College before 9.00am. If the College has not been notified, the office staff may contact parents to check on the student’s whereabouts. If a student is absent for a medical reason it is recommended that a medical certificate is supplied to the office as soon as possible. If an assessment item is due on the day of absence a MEDICAL CERTIFICATE is required or a STATUTORY DECLARATION is to be completed.

Leadership Team

Meet the Leadership Team.

Introducing New Staff for 2022

We are very excited about the mix of experience and early careers teachers and staff we have recruited. We welcome: Megan Fisher, Andrew Waller, Rita Melara, Jenna Murray, Jack Dixon, Georgia Adams, Maddyn White, Peter Groundwater, Stephanie Craperi and Demae McMahon.

Meet the Pastoral Team

MEET OUR GSMC PASTORAL TEAM

Our College’s mission is “to nurture the growth of the whole person in a safe, supportive and inclusive Catholic learning environment.”

Our team is here to support students with friendship issues, social skills, organisational skills, living our Catholic values and preparing for the future beyond Gilroy Santa Maria College. We can offer counselling support and access to outside-school services and support when needed.

Please feel free to contact the College if we can assist in any way!

Another fantastic resource that is available to parents is “School TV” – a link is available on the Gilroy website homepage below:

This website is full of valuable resources that parents will find useful while their children transition through high school. We will be highlighting different areas/articles in our newsletter throughout the year.

In this newsletter we are looking at “Understanding Adolescence”.

Adolescence is the transitional stage of development that is usually associated with the teenage years. In 2018, the Australian Curriculum Assessment Authority, redefined adolescence as affecting young people aged between 10-24 years. During this time, they experience rapid physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth which affects how teenagers feel, think, make decisions and interact with the world around them.

During adolescence, a child's brain can be considered as being “under-construction”. The rate at which this progresses will vary depending on the individual and also their gender. As a result, some parents may view adolescence as stressful or difficult. However, it does not need to be. Setting boundaries, implementing consistent monitoring and maintaining a strong and loving connection will help families adjust during this time.

It is also an important time to keep the communication lines open through clear and age appropriate conversations. Speak openly about changes that they are experiencing and be conscious of their mental health as many of the conditions people confront in adulthood, can begin to manifest in adolescence.

In this edition of SchoolTV, adult carers can learn how to guide and best support their young person as they transition through adolescence. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this month’s edition, and we always welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to this month's edition:

From the Principal – Kevin Barnes

Dear Gilroy Santa Maria College Community,

Welcome to our first newsletter for 2022. I extend a very warm welcome to families who are new to Gilroy Santa Maria College this year and a special welcome back to our continuing families. I thank you for entrusting your children to our College as we look forward to a very rewarding year ahead.

It is comforting to have students in classrooms and teachers providing learning opportunities again. Although the first two weeks of school were disrupted due to COVID restrictions, I was encouraged to see the enthusiasm displayed to get the school back in full swing after the delayed start to the school year.

Delivering quality education to students in a supportive environment will always be the number one priority of our College and I encourage all students, parents and staff to maintain focus on achieving this goal. Whilst we may experience extended absences due to isolation rules, we are well positioned to ensure students can still access the curriculum via Google Classrooms and stay on task even when working remotely.

Over the past weeks I have strived to keep parents informed of the impact the current restrictions are having on the College. We currently have a number of students who are in isolation due to contracting COVID 19 or are close contacts of an infectious person. These students and families have kept us informed of their status and are following quarantine protocols as required.

I envisage that the next few weeks will be a similar pattern where students and staff may be affected by this virus so we must all continue to abide by COVID guidelines, wear a face mask, maintain good hygiene standards, social distance, isolate and test if you experience any flu-like symptoms.

Our building renewal project is nearing completion despite delays due to supply issues and contractors being affected by COVID. Students and staff have enjoyed learning and teaching in the new Science Lab and the new M1 and M2 classrooms. The breakout area has provided a beautiful breeze way which is a welcoming shade area overlooking the sports oval. This building has added a wonderful learning space to our College.

The Edmund Rice Centre which houses the new Library, Board Room, Distance Education and work spaces for the Guidance Counsellor, Learning Support, Pastoral and Emerging Leaders team will be finalised by the end of this week. Commissioning and Certification are in the final stages as we ready to take possession of that building.

The Edmund Rice Centre is an impressive looking building which will form the centre piece of our College and I look forward to the day when we can again welcome parents on site to share in the wonderful facilities we have.

The next step in our redevelopment program is to revitalise sections of the grounds, gardens, pathways and shade areas. This will be an ongoing project over many years as we continue to enhance the school environment to be a welcoming and comfortable setting that provides students and staff with areas that can be flexible learning areas as well as spaces for relaxation and reflection.

We have recently reviewed our wet weather management procedures and refined how parents will be informed when buses are unable to run due to flooding. I have been in discussion with all bus companies to clarify how they will operate and communicate to keep everyone well informed. We will provide further advice shortly.

Although the remainder of Term 1 may continue to be challenging we will endeavour to provide students with experiences and opportunities, such as school photos, swimming carnival, retreats, excursions and Masses whilst operating within the guidelines imposed on us.

God bless
Kevin Barnes

Assistant Principal Religious Education – Christine Timms

God bless,
Christine Timms

Catholic Youth Commission, Townsville Diocese - Expanding Membership

The Catholic Youth Commission commenced in 2021, assisting the Bishop in planning and strategising to grow youth ministry in the Diocese. Bishop Tim is now looking to expand its membership for 2022 and is inviting expressions of interest in joining the Commission. Bishop is looking for a senior high school student, 2 young adults and 2 adults over 30. Express your interest by Friday 4 March 2022 through emailing youth@tsv.catholic.org.au for an EOI pack. Contact the Youth Office for more information - 07 4726 3262.

From the Deputy Principal – Melissa Carr

Dear Gilroy Santa Maria College Community,

Welcome back to another exciting and what will be a very busy school year. Whilst it has been a different start to the year, teachers and students have settled back into the school routine with many of our students also enjoying the new classrooms and facilities that have been completed in recent weeks. I would like to extend a warm welcome to all the new families that have joined our college community. I trust you will enjoy being part of our school community.

YEAR 9 AND 10 CLASS STRUCTURES

Some classes within Years 9 and 10, the classes for the core subjects, English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities have been purposely structured. Academic Leaders have invested considerable time generating these classes to maximise the provision of support and extension to all students and to best prepare students for Senior and the new QCE system. These subjects have also been specifically arranged in the timetable so that students can be moved from class to class depending on their progress. All decisions have been data-based, using the student’s past results, NAPLAN and PAT testing. If you have a particular issue with the class your child has been placed in then please discuss this with the appropriate Academic Leader.

English - Miss Jenna Murray
Mathematics - Ms Sharon Duffy
Humanities - Mrs Heidi Cianciullo

No student will be allowed to move class without consent from these Academic Leaders or a strong recommendation from our Guidance Counsellor, Ms Kate Stringini.

SUBJECT CHANGES

If students would like to make any subject changes, please collect a subject change form from Student Reception as soon as possible. This form must be completed then returned to student reception. The change will need to be consulted, formalised and if appropriate a new timetable will then be issued. Students are not to change classes/subjects until they have received a new timetable. All subject changes must be finalised by the end of this week (Week 5), Term 1. Please do not hesitate to contact me at the school or via email to ask any questions.

ASSESSMENT

The assessment planners for Year 7 - 12 have been released and all students have also received a paper copy that they can either put on the fridge at home or in their student diaries. All students and parents have been notified via Compass also. These planners are available on the College website in the students tab. A link in the school newsletter is also available. Assessment Planners contain all necessary information for the assessment of each subject expected throughout Term 1. Some students may become rather overwhelmed by the quantity of work ahead. The key to survival is being organized. The school diary is a great way to keep students organized. Students need to ensure that they have all the required writing materials and books for their classes and need to begin revising work and ensuring homework is completed from day one. Homework entails consolidation of the day’s lesson, revision of previous learning and working on any upcoming assessment. Students should also take advantage of the academic support which is available in the library every lunchtime and after school on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. A timetable listing the academic support provided by our staff is also included in this newsletter.

Please also be aware of the Assessment Guidelines and Procedures regarding missed work and assessment. These documents are available on the school website and clearly outline procedures for assessment.

Some major points include:

• It is imperative that if your child misses an exam for any reason that the College is notified. A Medical Certificate upon return to school that covers them for any missed assessment is necessary.
• Students Requesting Work for Short-Term and Long-Term Absences: The school expectation is that students will see their classroom teacher when they return to school for work they have missed due to any absence. Most learning areas are using Google Classrooms so students should be able to access missed content and course work at any time.
• Parents/Students Gaining Access to Past Exam Papers: No student will be given copies/access to past exam papers as this remains the intellectual property of the school.
• No student can conduct their exam prior to the scheduled date.
• All assignments must be submitted before or on the due date.

YEAR 7 and NEW STUDENTS: STUDY AND ASSESSMENT INFORMATION SESSION

On Thursday 17 February, a letter was sent home and a notification sent via Compass regarding the details and information for our Year 7 Study and Assessment Information session. Due to COVID restrictions, we were unable to hold this session face-to-face and therefore all presentations were pre-recorded and have been made available to families for viewing at home with your Year 7 son/daughter. This is a VERY IMPORTANT & COMPULSORY information session that all families need to participate in. The information was contained within a google form, asking families to register their information so that we are able to ensure all Year 7 families have received this information.

The aim of the information session is to help students understand:

• What is study
• How to study
• How to use the school diary
• How to be organised
• What support structures are available
• How to navigate Compass
• Provide an avenue to ask questions

While this session is particularly tailored for our new Year 7 families, all new and interested parents and students are very welcome and encouraged to participate.

NEW THIS YEAR - YEAR 11 and 12 PASTORAL INFORMATION SESSION

This year, we have also introduced a pastoral information session online for our Year 11 and 12 families. This session aims to reinforce and clarify expectations for everyone to ensure we are on the best path to success. Ms Paula Rand, our Year 11/12 Pastoral Leader has pre-recorded this session and has made it available to our Year 11 and 12 students and families. Similarly to our Year 7 Study and Information Session, Ms Rand’s presentation is available within a google form to allow us to capture our audience and ensure all students and families have engaged with the important information contained.

God Bless
Melissa Carr

Assessment Planners Term 1

From the Business Manager – Ros Giuliano

Please see below the 2022 school fees. Your fees were emailed this week. Please make sure the email address we have on file is current.

If you are currently paying your fees by direct debit, please check that the fortnightly amount is still enough to cover your fees for the year, as there has been an increase. If you are unsure, please contact me.

As all year levels attend either a retreat or a camp we have included all school camps in the general levy.

Previously only Year 10s were charged a laptop levy of $250 per student, however all students now have a device, so an IT levy of $100 per student has also been included.

The General Purpose levy consists of:

• Subscriptions
• Technology – including licences, accidental insurance and laptop bags
• Subject levies
• Textbooks and other resources
• Camps/Retreats
• Student devices

We have also separated the Building Fund Levy of $500 per family. This was previously included in general levies but this fee is now per family, not per student.

MULTI-SCHOOL FAMILY FEE DISCOUNTS

As of 2015, a new fee structure gives families discounted fees for the second, third and subsequent children across both secondary and primary systemic Catholic schools in the Townsville Diocese.

To take advantage of this extended fee discount, parents/carers should contact the principal of the primary school, informing them of older siblings attending a systemic Catholic secondary school. Diocesan Tuition fee discounts will be applied accordingly.

PENSIONER AND HEALTH CARE CARD HOLDERS FEE DISCOUNTS

In addition to these family fee discounts, parents/carers with a means tested Australian government health care or pensioner concession card may be eligible to receive a 70% discount to tuition fees. Card must be in the name of the parent/carer not the child/student.

Families without these cards who are experiencing financial difficulty should speak with the Principal to apply for special consideration.

No child will be denied enrolment due to financial difficulty. Parent/carers should discuss this matter with the Principal who will treat the situation with understanding, sensitivity and confidentiality.

Just a reminder that our preferred way of payment is now BPAY and those details are on the statement. As always, you can pay by credit card, cheque or cash or we can set up a direct debit through Payway.

If the statement does not look quite right and you do not agree with the balance or if you have any issues or questions regarding the statements please do not hesitate to see me.

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.

Ros Giuliano

Careers / VET

Please check our Webpage for the career opportunities in the Ingham area. This page will be continually updated as opportunities arise:

Current opportunities at Leonardi Accountants and Canegrowers Ingham:

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE INFORMATION SESSION

INGHAM 2 March 6:00pm to 8:00pm

The Australian Defence Force will be holding an information session in Ingham on Wednesday 2 March 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

Venue: Tyto Conference and Event Centre 73/75 McIlwraith Street

Explore job opportunities in the Navy, Army and Air Force by heading to an upcoming info session.
Speak with current serving members about trade roles, opportunities for further study, or flexible part-time commitment. The ADF offers countless career paths for school leavers.
If you have any questions regarding the ADF information session, please see Mrs Sartor (Careers Officer)

WORK PLACEMENT PROGRAM

Our Year 11 and 12 Vocational Students have begun their work placement program for 2022, attending various businesses around the Ingham region. They will continue to attend work every Friday of the school year where they will gain valuable experience in preparation for their post-school careers.

The local businesses that take on our students must be thanked - your time and support is greatly appreciated.

Year 11 and 12 work placement students are reminded that if for any reason they cannot attend work, they MUST contact their workplace AND the school office to advise of their absence.

If you know any local business that would like to take on a work placement student, please get in touch with us.

Mrs Ashley Sartor (Careers Officer) & Mrs Cassandra Venturato (VET Coordinator)

Sport

Interhouse Swimming Carnival

On Friday 4 March, Gilroy Santa Maria will be holding its 2022 Inter House Swimming Carnival at the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre. The carnival will commence at 8:30am and conclude at 3:00pm - school buses will be diverted to the pool for both arrival and departure. Students who do not catch a bus will be required to find their own transport directly to and from the pool on the day.

Students are encouraged to dress up in ‘tropical’ theme or wear their house colours to the pool, to get into the spirit of the carnival. Remember to wear suitable sun smart clothing, bring a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, and if swimming, a rashie and a towel. We ask students not to have zinc or coloured spray paint on them when entering the pool or boarding the bus.

Rolls will be marked throughout the day and students cannot leave the pool unless parents sign them out. This is a compulsory day and we invite all students to participate in the races and novelty events. Parents are encouraged to attend throughout the day.

Students could bring their own lunch or they may purchase from the lunch provided. Access to the canteen will be available for snacks and drinks.

We look forward to a successful day where all students can cool off and enjoy the first sports carnival of the year. If you have any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at the College. Any questions please email me jspina5@gilroysm.catholic.edu.au

Breakfast Club

Each Wednesday Mrs Martin (along with her many helpers) arranges the Breakfast Club at the Tuckshop for all of our students to enjoy.

We receive donations of goods from Woolworths Ingham and Mick's Bakery - Thank you so much for their generosity!

This is such a wonderful initiative.

School Photos

School photos will take place on Thursday 24 February. Don't forget, if you are paying by cash, please enclose the correct change in the envelope and seal it before handing it to Student Reception - no change can be given. Sibling order forms are available from Student Reception.

Tuckshop News

A special menu is available for Ash Wednesday, next week 2 March and can be ordered on the Flexischools app.

Download the new App to order Tuckshop online.

Tuckshop Roster

Start time is preferably 8:30am – 11:30am 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

St Patrick’s, Ingham
Saturday Vigil: 6.00pm
Sunday: 8.30am and 7.00pm

St Peter’s, Halifax
Sunday: 7.00am

Canossa Chapel, Trebonne
Sunday: 10.00am

St Teresa’s, Abergowrie
Sunday: 10.00am

INGHAM REGION CATHOLIC PARISHES NEWSLETTER:

Father Damian McGrath
Parish Priest
Ingham Region Catholic Parishes

Around the District

INGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB

HELP FOR PARENTS TO SUPPORT KIDS’ BACK-TO-SCHOOL EMOTIONS IN 2022

Ongoing upheaval from the pandemic continues to impact families, and going back to school adds another layer of stress during a time where there’s already a lot of change. Children and young people may have mixed emotions but being able to cope with uncertainty is a key life skill, and with the right support and strategies, parents can help their children develop ways to tackle change more confidently, manage their emotions, and build resilience in the long term.

Practical Triple P – Positive Parenting Program tips and ideas are FREE, thanks to Queensland Government funding! Do Fear-Less Triple P Online, Triple P Online, or Teen Triple P Online. For more on free Triple P programs, go to the below website:

With thanks,
The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program team

COUNCIL CONNECTIONS

GRANDPARENTS CONNECT

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