Term 4 Week 4 College Newsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal

Dear Parents/Carers and Students,

It was a huge week of activities last week at the school with the Awards Evening, Year 11 Leadership breakfast, Year 12 ROP, Rugby Union trip and tutorials for seniors as they started their external exams.  I would like to thank you, the parents, for your participation in these events, our students for their outstanding behaviour and hard work to be recognised at these events, and our staff for their continued support of our boys.

Our Awards Evening was held on Wednesday, and it was a wonderful celebration of students excelling, not only in the Academic field, but in other areas around the school. Service, sports, leadership, and the arts. Congratulations to all students who received an award.

This event was followed by our Year 11 Leadership Breakfast, where we acknowledged our senior class of 2026 and presented them with their senior ties. It was great to see so many parents able to make the time to celebrate this milestone with their sons. It was a privilege to witness how much this event meant to both our boys and their families.  In addition to this we were able to name our House leaders for 2026. Congratulations to all 20 leaders on this honour and responsibility of the year ahead.

We would like to wish the Year 12’s the very best of luck as they head into 3 weeks of external exams.  This is an important phase of their schooling, where the hard work and commitment of the past 6 years truly comes together.

As I spoke to the boys on assembly last week, I took the time to explain that while we have had a busy start to the term, the distractions from our learning and teaching will now reduce significantly.  Sports have finished, most co-curricular has wound down, because this is the time to focus on their academics.  Every student will have coursework, assessments or exams over the next 4 weeks, and it is imperative that students dedicate the time to these areas.  Please do not accept from your son that he has no homework.  He will have assignments, and he will always be able to complete revisions on the work that he completed in class that day.

This week we hosted the Liverpool Academy Trials on Wednesday afternoon and had in excess of 60 students, both from IPC and outside our College, who trialled.  I would like to thank Mr Paul Kohler, who is joining the College teaching staff in 2026, for giving up his time to facilitate these trials.  Mr Kohler will be the Academy Head Coach in 2026, and we are looking forward to him joining the College.  While a wrap-up of the Rugby Union trip to Innisfail is covered later in the newsletter, I would like to thank Mr Marano, Mr Denny and Mr Shane Laskey for giving up their weekend to travel with the team.  Like Mr Kohler, Mr Laskey will join the College in 2026, but has already started working with our rugby players in a volunteer capacity to ensure success in 2026. 

This morning, we hosted our Grandparents Morning Tea. The response to this much-loved event has been overwhelming, with the ticketed event filling fast. Boys were able to give their grandparents a tour of the College and share morning tea with them, which was lovingly prepared by our Year 10 hospitality students.  Thank you all involved.

Next Tuesday, we are holding our last Phoenix Flyers afternoon for our Year 7 2026 students. This is a wonderful afternoon for our new students to attend and look around the college grounds before they commence their schooling at IPC next year.  Their full orientation day at the school will be held on Monday, 17 November 2025. We look forward to welcoming them to both events.

Tomorrow we celebrate World Teachers Day.  I am astounded every day by the dedication and commitment of our teaching staff here at IPC.  On behalf of the entire Ignatius Park College Community, I would like to say thank you to our Teachers and to all staff who guide and teach our boys every day here at IPC.

Luke Thomson  |  Principal

Curriculum Corner

Year 12

Year 12 External Exams are underway. Please note the following reminders:

• Location: John Fisher Building, Ignatius Park College
• Exam Timetable & Tutorials: The full schedule, including tutorial sessions, can be accessed
• Uniform: Students are required to wear full uniform whilst on campus.
• Parking: Students are not allowed to park in the staff carpark.

If a student is absent during an external assessment, they must contact the External Assessment Coordinators immediately. Please note that events such as family holidays, sporting commitments, birthdays or weddings are not considered valid reasons for absence or venue variation under QCAA guidelines.

Non-ATAR and VET Pathway Students

Students who are not sitting external exams but have outstanding VET competencies or are at risk of not achieving a QCE will be contacted to attend school during the external assessment period. This time will be used to complete any remaining work or training modules to ensure all QCE requirements are met.

Year 11

Students are now 4 weeks into Unit 3 work. From this point forward, all assessment completed will contribute towards their final Year 12 results.

It is essential that students remain focused and maintain consistent effort throughout the remainder of this year to set themselves up for success in 2025.

The Year 11 Exam Timetable can be accessed here

Please note: If a student is unable to attend an exam, an AARA (Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments) application must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the scheduled exam date, accompanied by supporting documentation. All applications should be directed to the Edmund Rice Office.

Years 7 - 10

By now, students in Years 9, 10 and 11 for 2026 have made their subject choices. These will be confirmed and communicated to students in Term 4. We thank families for their support throughout the subject selection process and look forward to working with students as they begin planning their future pathways.

The assessment schedule will be made available by the end of Week 4.

VARIATION TO ASSESSMENT – AARA's (Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments)

A general reminder about our AARA process:

• As per the College’s Assessment Policy, requests to vary the conditions or due date of any assessment item can only be considered following the submission of an Access Arrangement and Reasonable Adjustment (AARA) form and appropriate supporting documentation.

• The completed AARA form, along with required documentation (i.e. detailed medical certificate and details of absence) must be submitted to their Subject Faculty Leader or the Edmund Rice Office.

• A copy of the AARA form (Yr’s 11 and 12) and Variation form (Yr’s 7-10) is available on the school website at: https://www.ipc.qld.edu.au/studies/exams-assessment-study-documents/. Alternatively, hard copies of this form are available from the Edmund Rice Office.
  

Kristen Harrison | Director of Curriculum

Identity and Mission

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the end of another enriching school year, it is with great pleasure and anticipation that I share reflections on the announcement of our student leaders for the Class of 2026. The selection process, steeped in our College's values, has once again highlighted the remarkable qualities of our students, and I am excited to introduce the new cohort of leaders who will steer our community forward.

Our Touchstone Prefects for next year have been chosen with careful consideration of their alignment with the EREA Touchstones: Gospel Spirituality, Liberating Education, Justice & Solidarity and Inclusive Community. These young leaders will not only embody these principles but will actively engage with them in their daily interactions and initiatives. They will serve as ambassadors of our mission, fostering an environment where every student feels valued and empowered. Through various programs and activities, our Touchstone Prefects will contribute to building a more inclusive and supportive College community, ensuring that the ethos of Ignatius Park College is lived out vibrantly in all that we do.

In addition to our Touchstone Prefects, we are proud to announce our Captains for the Class of 2026. These students have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, and they are poised to lead with integrity, pride, and commitment. Our Captains will be at the forefront of our efforts to uphold the highest standards of conduct and achievement. They will inspire their peers to strive for excellence, both academically and personally, and will play a crucial role in maintaining the spirit of unity and purpose that defines our College. Their dedication to serving others and leading by example will be instrumental in guiding our community through the challenges and opportunities of the coming year.

As we look forward to the leadership of these outstanding students, let us also take a moment to reflect on the year that has passed and the connections we have forged. It is my hope that we will finish the 2025 school year as a connected College community, strengthened by our shared experiences and united in our commitment to our mission and motto - "Seek Truth."

To this end, I would like to conclude with a prayer inspired by our commitment to Inclusive Community:

Prayer for an Inclusive Community

Gracious God,

As we come together toward the end of this school year, we give thanks for the diverse gifts and talents that enrich our College community. We pray for the strength to embrace inclusivity, to celebrate our differences, and to support one another in all that we do.

Guide our new student leaders as they take on their roles with humility and courage. May they lead with hearts open to the needs of others, fostering a spirit of unity and belonging.

Help us to finish this year connected as a College community, bound by our shared values and our collective journey. May we continue to grow in faith, hope, and love, always striving to reflect the light of Your presence and Seek Truth in our world.

Amen.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement as we move forward together.

In faith and service,

Mark Holmes | Director of Identity & Mission

Director of Students

Skills & Training

Industry Placement – Year 11
All Year 11 students completing their Industry Placement will be out between Monday, 3rdNovember to Friday, 7th November. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to explore different trades and gain valuable hands-on experience.

Students should now have received their logbooks. They are expected to contact their employer to confirm details such as the placement address, start time, attire, and any other relevant information. If students are unsure how to make these calls, they are welcome to visit the Pathways Office for support.

Conditions and Expectations for Students on Industry Placement

• Students must contact their employer no later than the Thursday prior to their placement to confirm all arrangements.
• If students have any existing commitments that may affect attendance, they must inform both their employer and the Pathways Team in advance.

Absences

• If a student is unable to attend work, they must call their employer before their scheduled start time.
• They must also notify the Program Leader – Skills and Training by text message, mobile number is in the logbooks.

Year 10 Students
Please check your emails for information on TAFE course offerings and instructions for 2026.

Work Experience
Any Year 10 or senior students wishing to arrange a week of work experience during the December/January holidays must have all required paperwork completed and submitted by Friday, 14th November.

If you have any questions or concerns about Industry Placement, please contact the Pathways Hub.

Kristy Clarke | Program Leader - Skills & Training  

Careers Hub

It’s been business as usual in the Careers Hub. Many students have been dropping in for help with resumes, job applications, and subject changes as they prepare for the next steps in their pathways. It’s great to see so many of you planning ahead and taking charge of your futures. 

Remember, we are always here to help – whether you need support finding work, exploring training options, or making study decisions. Don’t hesitate to pop in or send an email if you need a hand! 

QMEA STEM Unearthed Workshop  

Year 10 students have been invited to attend the QMEA STEM Unearthed full-day event. The event is offered to students in year 10 who are seeking an academic pathway of study in year 11 & 12. STEM Unearthed encourages the pursuit of excellence in science and science-related subjects. Students work in small groups to complete STEM based activities focused around the life cycle of resource operations through themes of exploration, extraction and rehabilitation.  

Wulguru Group – 2026 Apprenticeship Program 

Wulguru Group have just released their 2026 Apprenticeship Program with available apprenticeships for: Boilermaker, Fitter & Turner, Electrician, Industrial Painter. Applications are now open and will close on 30 November 2025. Please refer to the attached flyer for more information and if you need any assistance with your application, please come and see me in the Pathways Hub. 

School-Based Traineeship Opportunity – My Pet Barn 

My Pet Hub Townsville is offering two exciting school-based traineeship opportunities for students entering Year 11 in 2026. If you have a passion for animals, enjoy helping people, and are interested in working in a veterinary clinic, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. If you have any questions or would like assistance with your application, please don't hesitate to visit me or Mrs Clarke in the Pathways Hub. 

Rowlands Surveys – Surveyor’s Assistant Opportunity  

Rowlands Surveys Pty Ltd is an established Land Surveying company, servicing North Queensland from its Townsville Office. Rowlands Surveys are looking for an enthusiastic person who may be interested in a career in Surveying.  We would like to offer work experience with the possibility of casual employment over the school holidays for a suitable applicant. Refer Flyer for more information.  

Cowboys Leagues Club – School Based Traineeships 2026 

The Cowboys Leagues Club is excited to welcome applications for our 2026 School Based Traineeship programs! They will be holding 2 information/enrolment sessions in October, and interested students are encouraged to register their attendance and bring along a parent/guardian. Refer attached flyer.  

In these sessions we aim to explain the various Traineeships, what’s involved, and why the Clubs traineeships are an incredible opportunity for students interested in developing a career in Hospitality or obtain a nationally accredited qualification. 

Available Traineeships in 2026 are: 

• Certificate III in Hospitality 
• Certificate III in Business 
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery

To be eligible students will be. 

• Entering years 10 or 11 in 2026  
• Able to have a weekly release day from school 

JCU Scholarships 

With over 50 scholarships available, there’s real support to help cover the costs of starting uni, from textbooks and travel to tech and other essentials. Whether you're heading into your first degree or exploring your options, a scholarship can give you the confidence to focus on your future. 

From study area scholarships to financial help for students who live in regional, rural or remote areas, find a scholarship applicable to you. Visit the Scholarships webpage to view the full eligibility criteria for each scholarship opportunity HERE.      

The Ville – School Based Traineeship & Apprenticeship Opportunities  

In partnership with the team at CTA Training Specialisist (RTO Code 31607), The Ville Resort-Casino are recruiting senior students to be a part of our 2026 programs. Applications close Monday 10 November. See flyer for more information.  

Carpentry Apprenticeship  

MNB Constructions is looking for students who are interested in pursuing a career in carpentry. They plan to employ an apprentice carpenter starting in January 2026. Interested students should email their resume to info@mnbconstructions.com.au If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please come and see me in the Pathways Hub. 

Townsville Defence Careers Information Session 

Are you interested to learn about the wide range of roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force? 

Join the upcoming info session and speak with current serving members about their own experiences. You'll have the chance to ask any questions you have about Australian Defence Force careers and opportunities. 

It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited! 

Please arrive no later than 5:45 PM to allow time for check-in. The session will commence promptly at 6 PM. 

Due to building access restrictions late arrivals will not be permitted entry after 6 PM. BOOK NOW 

Australian Defence Force Gap Year Program 

Students interested in a position with the Australian Defence Force, should consider exploring the Gap Year Program. This program allows students to experience an ADF position, basic training, and the military lifestyle for 12 months. At the end of this time, they can either choose to begin the process of full enlistment or move to other pathways outside of the ADF. This program can be helpful for students contemplating the ADF but unsure if it is the pathway they really want. Refer HERE for more information.  

Interested in Pharmacy? School-based traineeship opportunity now available. 

The Australian Vocational Academy has an excellent new school-based traineeship opportunity available for students who may be interested in a Career in Pharmacy. If you're interested, please apply directly through this link APPLY NOW or please come and have a chat with me or Mrs Clarke in the Pathways Hub. 

Campbells Kitchen Cabinets – Apprentice Cabinet Maker  

This is an exciting apprenticeship opportunity that may be of interest current and exiting students. There is currently a position available for an apprentice cabinetmaker. If you are considering an apprenticeship or looking to enter the workforce with practical training, please see us in the Pathways Hub or email your resume to sales@campbellskitchens.com.au  

Connect ‘n’ Grow – Summer Intensice 2025  

Our Summer Intensive Program gives Year 10, 11 and 12 students the opportunity to gain real-world healthcare experience, earn up to 4 QCE credits, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification before heading into 2026. 

Program Snapshot: 

• 3-month blended course | 2-week workshop (Dec 1–12) 
• Earn up to 4 QCE credits  
• Nationally recognised HLT23221 Certificate II in Health Support Services  
• Pathway to Certificate III or direct employment in healthcare

Local students who complete this program often go on to work within Queensland Health and regional hospitals. It’s the perfect way to finish the year confident and career-ready. 

If you’re interested, please some and see us in the Pathways Hub to discuss.  

Job Application Support  

Students who are looking to apply for casual jobs, apprenticeships, or other opportunities, I am available to support you with preparing your resume, cover letter, and general application tips. A strong application can make a big difference, so please take advantage of this assistance if you need it.  

Ms Sheena King | Careers Counsellor  

All Shook Up - Combined Schools Musical

All Shook Up Lead Auditions – Combined Schools Musical 2026

Ignatius Park will be holding lead auditions for next year’s musical, All Shook Up, on Tuesday, 11^th November, between 3:45 and 6:30pm. The audition pack can be downloaded from the Daily Notices on Student Café or accessed using the following link: All Shook Up Audition Materials.

Looking forward to seeing potential leads rock it out!

For further information, you can contact Mrs Tillack – kylie.tillack@ipc.qld.edu.au

Junior CBSQ Competition

Last week, the Junior team competed in the Champion Basketball School of Queensland Tournament on the Gold Coast. The team performed strongly in the pool games, finishing in a three-way tie. After a countback on points for and against, IPC placed third by just one point. Their first crossover match was a tough contest against Dakabin, where IPC narrowly went down by only seven points. This result placed the team in the playoff bracket for 9th to 16th position.

Throughout the tournament, the team played exceptionally well together, showing great chemistry and teamwork on both ends of the court. Kaden Robertson and Jace Mitchell had several impressive high-scoring games, while Tellay Thaiday put in an outstanding effort despite carrying injuries. The boys’ commitment, resilience, and support for one another were evident in every match. The team would also like to extend a big thank you to Coach Leigh Robertson for giving up her time to train and guide them throughout the season.

The IPC boys showed outstanding grit and determination throughout the remaining games, finishing the tournament with five wins and two losses to secure 9th overall. Off the court, the team enjoyed plenty of downtime activities, including swimming at the beach and pool, fishing off the pontoon at their accommodation, and competing in a ping pong tournament where Sam Sheppard was crowned champion. They also spent time shopping at Pacific Fair and Harbour Town and enjoyed plenty of laughs and team bonding throughout the trip.

• Game 1: IPC v Palm Beach Currumbin  45-38 
• Game 2: IPC v All Saints 53-64
• Game 3: IPC v Calamvale Community College 59-37
• Game 4: IPC v Dakabin 45-52
• Game 5: IPC v Windaroo Valley State High 48-32
• Game 6: IPC v Calamvale Community College 81-54
• Game 6: IPC v Palm Beach Currumbin 52-39

Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors: Brothers Leagues Club, DLB Communications and Trinity Petroleum.

Team list

1. Kaden Robertson
2. Jace Mitchell
3. Tellay Thaiday
4. Brock Watson
5. Samuel Sheppard
6. Logan Drane
7. Marco Carini
8. Oliver Barron
9. Alex Moss
10. Kawani Mooka

Junior CBSQ Tournament

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Rugby Union Road Trip

We travelled to Innisfail last Friday with a team of seventeen young men to play three or possibly four games in a Fifteen-a-side tournament, a tall order considering the weather conditions over the weekend.

The boys kicked off their first game Saturday at 2 pm with a gutsy, hard-fought win against Townsville Grammar. In the second half, we unfortunately lost a man to injury, which would see him out of the following games, reducing our bench to just one man.  

Second up for the afternoon was Saint Augustines Cairns a contest between the two colleges which led to the current tournaments expansion to include other NQ schools, the boys from the Park proving to good on the day to triumph in what was an expansive and entertaining match with boys digging deep in sweltering conditions and with limited substitutions, losing another player to injury in the dying stages of the match.

With our boys and the Cassowary Coast Barbarians being the two undefeated sides on day one of the tournament Sunday morning's showdown between the two teams was to be the Trophy Final. The park XV was just that, with just 15 men available to kit up for the match. A tough, low-scoring first half was to ensue, with injury just before half-time seeing the team number further reduced to 14 for the entirety of the second half. The men of the park fought bravely against the conditions and an opposition with their tail up and numbers on the bench to lose in the dying minutes of an epic match.

The young men who travelled to play in the tournament can hold their heads high showing remarkable resilience and composure both on and off the field, it was a pleasure to be involved with such a group and with what was shown over the weekend Ignatius Park as a lot to look forward to in the coming years with the development of the boys through the Rugby Union Programme.

Congratulations to these young men, who did THE PARK proud in Innisfail:

• Rory Deans
• Nicolas Demopoulos
• Devon Esperon
• Riley Flanders
• Zak Green
• Thomas Griffiths
• Leuatea Kelemete
• Xavier Kelemete
• Jean-Pierre Katende
• Kima Kelemete
• Patrick Kuruyawa
• Gian Moody-Moxon
• Daniel Player
• Vasefenua Roberts
• William Thiele
• Brock Watson
• Zeeden Zaro

Wellio Parent Webinar

IPC Retains Coveted Melton Black Shield!

In a display of speed, skill, and team spirit, Ignatius Park College has once again proven its dominance in the pool, successfully defending and retaining the Melton Black Shield at the Inter-school Swimming Carnival.

Held on Wednesday, 15th October, at the Long Tan Pool, the atmosphere was electric as our athletes went head-to-head with the region's best. When the final points were tallied, IPC stood proudly at the top of the leaderboard with an impressive 897 points, firmly ahead of Cathedral School (825) and Townsville Grammar School (759). This decisive victory underscores the depth of talent and dedication across our entire swimming squad.

The day was filled with remarkable individual and team efforts, but one performance truly etched itself into the history books. Our 15 Years Freestyle Relay team delivered a breathtaking race, powering their way to a new Townsville School Sport record with a blistering time of 1:51.27. This incredible achievement is a testament to their hard work and the strong culture of excellence within our swimming program.

Capping off a truly successful carnival, four of our students were crowned Age Champions, showcasing the bright future and current strength of IPC swimming:

• U13 Age Champion: Porter Gilbride
• U16 Age Champion: Darby Whiteley
• U17 Age Champion: Euan Roberts
• Open Age Champion: Thomas Dodds

The entire Ignatius Park College community extends its congratulations to every student who represented the college with such pride and sportsmanship.

This retention of the Melton Black Shield is a fantastic achievement and a proud moment for our college. Well done, gentlemen

Brother Patrick Nolan Awards - Nolan Awards

In our final House assembly with Year 12 students, Nolan House awarded their annual Brother Patrick Nolan Awards. These winners have been voted by students and staff as they have consistently demonstrated the values of integrity, pride and commitment, as well as making a significant positive contribution to the lives of others.

Congratulations to our 2025 winners:

• • • Junior Award – Angus McBaron
    • Senior Award – Max Reeves
    • Staff Award – Ms Amanda Loechel

Overdue LRC Books to be invoiced

Unfortunately, we have over 500 overdue Library Books.

Our LRC staff request that books be returned ASAP - families with overdue books will be invoiced shortly. 

Spirit Squad Youth Group

Changes to Family Details

Please ensure the College is kept informed of any changes to your family circumstances. Residential addresses can be updated directly via Parent Lounge, while any other updates should be advised to the College Office.

Bus News

Please see flyer below, including important information regarding the School Transport Assistance Scheme. 

The following families should reapply for 2026: 

• New families who have not previously applied for STAS
• Families with students going from Year 6 to Year 7 (Year 6 students get dated off the Translink system the day after school finishes this year)
• Families who are changing their children's schools for 2026

If families are already approved for the STAS and any of the above criteria does not apply - THEY DO NEED TO REAPPLY as students automatically roll over to the new year. 

Students who currently have smartcards for all year levels, keep the cards for use again next year.  New cards are no longer issued each year.  Any changes to the students details on the cards are amended automatically on the cards.

Students on School Grounds Outside School Hours

Ignatius Park College has an enviable co-curricular program that operates outside school hours for a number of activities. All these activities are supervised by College staff and operate with parent and/or College permission.

For students arriving at school before the school day begins and remaining behind after the school day concludes, supervision is provided by school staff from 8.10am until the start of homeroom at 8.30am and after the school day concludes at 3.00pm until 3.20pm. School bells ring at 8.10am and 3.20pm to indicate the beginning and end of this supervision.

Parents are reminded that unless students are taking part in supervised outside school activities, they will not be supervised by school staff except during the period from 8.10 am and until 3.20pm. Parents should ensure that suitable arrangements are in place to ensure the supervision of their students outside these times. While school gates will be open before and after these times, this is to provide access to staff and for students attending these supervised activities.

School Fees

The College Fee Schedule for 2025 can be viewed at https://www.ipc.qld.edu.au/enrol/fees/

Please be informed that timely payment of the school fees is mandatory. If you have defaulted a timely payment or have outstanding fees, please pay in full as soon as possible. Please contact the College Finance Team at finance@ipc.qld.edu.au or call 4796 0222 if you need further information.  

School Fee Platform - Edstart

From Term 1 2025, all school fees including termly and periodic payments will be managed by Edstart. You can set up your Edstart account at  edstart.com.au/ipc

Voluntary Contributions: With your child’s outcomes at the heart of what we do, voluntary contributions are crucial to the sustainability and advancement of our school. If you did not select to include these optional levies when setting up your Edstart account for the year and you would like to contribute - Please contact Edstart to let them know you would like these levies included in your payments.

Vilton Crasto | Director of Business Operations