Term 4 Week 4 College Newsletter
Acknowledgement of Country
From the Principal
Dear Parents/Caregivers,
Awards Evening/Year 11 Breakfast
Thank you to all the parents, caregivers, staff and students who attended both our Awards Evening and Year 11 Leadership Breakfast last week. It was with mixed feelings and sadness that I celebrated both events as I finished my principalship at Iggy Park at the end of the year. It has been an absolute privilege to lead this great College over the past six years.
The Awards Evening was a wonderful celebration of the academic and cultural achievements of our students over the past year at Ignatius Park College. I believe the evening acknowledged seven important characteristics that are developed in our students at the College. These include:
- Their commitment to their faith, in the service of others.
- Their sense of brotherhood, and their willingness to be there for one another.
- Their spirit of collaboration and ability to effectively work in partnership with others.
- Their passion and love for learning, and ability to dream big, persist and problem solve to ensure they realise their goal.
- Their openness to make sacrifices and embrace the idea that everything in life that is worthwhile takes effort and perseverance.
- Their humility and openness to respectful challenge, learning from the perspective of others showing intercultural and interfaith sensitivity in their interactions and decision making.
- Their courage to fully embrace their diverse God-given gifts in the service of others, to not play small but to fully embrace God's vision, as they have been made in the image of God, and within them is all they need to succeed, no matter the challenges they face.
Congratulations to all our award recipients who encapsulate these characteristics in their studies and behaviour.
Also, thank you to all parents and carers who attended the Year 11 Leadership Breakfast last Friday. This event is an important Rite of Passage, as the Year 11’s receiving their senior tie signified that they are now our 2024 leaders within our College community. They are now our role models in our school and they are called to “Brotherhood”. A brotherhood that is about leadership, a leadership that captures and directs the wisdom and gift of each individual into a collective, transforming and inspiring them to move beyond the ordinary to the extraordinary. Each of the 2024 Year 12 students are all called to be leaders.
At the breakfast we also announced the 2024 House and Vice-Captains who will support our College Captain, Vice-Captain and Prefects. Our senior leadership team will comprise:
College Captain | Alexander Demopoulos
College Vice-Captain | Kynan Purdy
Prefects
Gospel Spirituality | Joshua Morton
Inclusive Community | Jacob Sexton
Liberating Education | Wesley Kerr
Justice and Solidarity | Adam Sievers
House Captain/Vice Captain
Baillie House
Captain | Trey Horan
Vice-Captain | Sean Weir
Carew House
Captain | Sam Chittleborough
Vice-Captain | Billy Harrold
Nolan House
Captain | Lucas Partridge
Vice-Captain | Miach Hemphill
Reid House
Captain | Michael Paine
Vice-Captain | Joe Briskey
Rice House
Captain | Connor Sexton
Vice-Captain | Charles Glover
Treacy House
Captain | Reagan Knowles
Vice-Captain | Reuben Hilbourne
Putney House
Captain | Andre Corradini
Vice-Captain |Fletcher Ferres
Congratulations to all the students who were nominated as senior leaders in 2024.
Alex Demopoulos, our 2024 College Captain gave his first address to the College outlining our 2024 College theme.
Good morning, parents, staff, and students. Welcome to the leadership breakfast for the senior cohort of 2024.
Every year the college has a specific theme, and our college theme for 2024 is “7 houses, 1 home”, which was decided on at our leadership camp earlier this year.
When the phrase, “7 houses, 1 home” is used within a school context, if refers to a system in which they organise students into different houses within the school. Each house represents a smaller, more tightly knit community within the larger school.
Despite being divided into these houses, the idea is that all students and staff within the school are apart of one larger school community or a “home”. It emphasizes the sense of unity and belonging in the school, even with the presence of different houses.
I am looking forward to the year ahead and working alongside the elected leaders and the broader cohort to bring to life the theme of 7 houses 1 home within the college in 2024, thank you.
Year 12 Exams
Last Friday our Year 12’s celebrated their final day of formal lessons. This week our Year 12 ATAR students have commenced their external examinations, which will occur over the next three weeks, joining more than 30,000 Queensland Year 12 students embarking on the external exams that comprise 25% of their assessment for general subjects and 50% for mathematics and science subjects. We wish all the Year 12’s all the best in their external examinations. Their Year 12 results will be released on Friday, 15th December by the QCAA.
World Teachers Day
This Friday 27th October is World Teachers’ Day. The theme this year is “Hats off to teachers” and the commitment they make in their vocation. In my speech at the Awards Evening, I stated: “As Principal, the quality of our staff and the potential we have for making a profound difference in the lives and the learning of the students in our care, is of paramount importance to me. I feel very blessed to be working with some of the best educators that I have had the privilege to work alongside. The drive, passion and determination – underpinned by skill, knowledge and empathy, has seen teaching and learning continue to raise progress and achievement despite the ever changing social, learning and emotional needs that we are confronted with today. The resilience required from the 21st century teacher is an incredible mix of passion, professionalism, patience and persistence”.
This day is celebrated in more than 100 countries worldwide and was established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in 1994 to celebrate the role of teachers in society. It provides an opportunity to draw public attention to the role of teachers worldwide and their importance in the classroom and the contribution they make to our society. Teachers help in the development of a student, not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. We are blessed to have an outstanding group of teachers and support staff in our College, who do a wonderful job each day. Please consider what you may like to do as a simple thank you to those teachers who care for your son.
All Souls Day
Next Wednesday is “All Saints Day” and Thursday 2nd November is “All Souls Day”. All Souls' Day commemorates the faithful departed. The exact origins of these celebrations are uncertain, although, after the legalisation of Christianity in 313, a common commemoration of Saints, especially the martyrs, appeared in various areas throughout the Church. The 1st November was given by Pope Gregory III (731-741). Please keep in our thoughts and prayers family friends and loved ones who have departed and are in the arms of a loving God.
God of Compassion,
Your power brings us to birth,
Your providence guides our lives,
and by Your command we return to dust.
Lord, those who die still live in Your presence,
their lives change but do not end.
I pray in hope for my family,
relatives and friends,
and for all the dead known to You alone.
In company with Christ,
Who died and now lives,
may they rejoice in Your kingdom,
where all our tears are wiped away.
Unite us together again in one family,
to sing Your praise forever and ever.
Live Jesus in our Hearts. Forever.
Shaun Clarke | Principal
Identity and Mission
This term, we have launched our annual St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. Each homeroom is bringing donations to help struggling families, aiming to provide goods to assist in making a memorable Christmas. Students are encouraged to bring in donations based on themes for their House and year group.
Christian charity is more than simple philanthropy, Pope Francis said in his Angelus address in 2020: "Christian charity is not simple philanthropy but, on the one hand, it is looking at others through the eyes of Jesus Himself and, on the other hand, seeing Jesus in the face of the poor."
These initiatives Ignatius Park College supports assist in fostering empathy and compassion amongst our students, as it encourages them to consider the struggles and hardships of others, promoting a more caring and connected community.
All donations are being collected in Homerooms or directly to the Identity & Mission office and concluding Week 7 this term. We look forward to your donations and being able to help families experiencing hardships this Christmas.
Prayer
Dear God, as I begin my day,
I ask for your guidance and strength to help me serve others. Please remind me that every person I encounter is created in your image and deserves to be treated with love and respect. Help me to see the needs of those around me and be willing to step in and help in any way I can.
Live Jesus in our Hearts… Forever.
Bianca Barbagallo | Director of Identity and Mission (Acting)
Pathways Hub
Next Week will be Industry Placement for year 11s.
All the Year 11s doing Industry Placement will be out to gain valuable work experience and skills during Week 5, starting Monday 30th of October – Friday 3rd November. This is a fantastic opportunity for the Year 11s to try different trades/occupations.
The students have been issued with their logbooks. Students are expected to call their employers to confirm the placement, address, attire etc. In their logbooks, there is a guide on what to say and ask. If students are nervous or unsure about making their call, they are welcome to come to the Pathways Office and we are happy to assist.
Conditions and Expectations of Students on Industry Placement
Contacting Employers
- The student will phone the employer by no later than the Wednesday prior to placement dot confirm arrangements. If the student is having trouble contacting the employer, he will see the Pathway Hub for assistance as soon as possible.
- If the student has any commitments that will affect his attendance during Industry Placement (including appointments school commitments, sporting commitments etc.) he will advise the Program Leader of Skills & Training and the employer at the earliest possible time prior to the Industry Placement week.
Change of Placement
- Requests to change placement/employers will be completed and submitted to the Pathway Hub, by date they have been provided with.
Absences
- Contacting the Employer. If the student is absent from the workplace, he will call his employer. This must be done prior to his usual staring time.
- Contacting the College: During Industry Placement week parents/guardians will phone the Program Leader of Skills & Training directly before 8.30am on 0438 185 403. (This is also shown on the student logbooks)
Logbooks
- Students will neatly, comprehensively, and diligently complete their logbooks for each placement day and have it signed by their supervisor at the end of the week.
- On the first school day after industry placement week, the student will have his logbook sighted and signed by the Program Leader of Skills & Training.
Conduct in the Workplace
Students must adhere to the following conduct expectations whilst on Industry Placements.
- Confidentiality: While on placement any information you gain must be treated as confidential n you must refrain from discussing such information with others.
- Mobile phones: Mobile phones are not to be used for personal use at all during working hours. Use of mobile phones during breaks is at the discretion of the work supervisor.
- Courtesy: Remember a smile goes a long way in personal relations when greeting and dealing with customers, staff, and management.
- Initiative and enthusiasm: Be willing and inquiring on and show the employer you r are thinking about what you are doing. Make sure you listen to and following instructions. If you encounter difficulties, ask for help.
- Dressing appropriately: Before arriving at work on the first day, check with the employer about the type of clothing and personal protective equipment which is appropriate for the work you will be undertaking.
- Honesty: During placement, you are representing the College. Regarding money, merchandise, behavior and truthfulness show personal pride in yourself and your college by behaving appropriately.
- Safe work practices: The Workplace Health and Safety Act states that employees and other (including Work Experience Students) have certain obligations in the workplace. All workers:
- Must comply with the instructions given by the employer.
- Must not injure themselves.
- Must use protective equipment.
- Must not place other employees at risk.
- Must not willfully or recklessly interfere with or misuse equipment or anything provided in the interests of health or safety at the workplace.
- Non-discriminatory work practices: The Anti-Discrimination Act 1991 prohibits either direct or indirect discrimination based on sex, race or impairment. Any person who experiences discrimination or sexual harassment may make a complaint to the Commissioner of the Anti-Discrimination Commission within one year of the alleged contravention of the Act.
Failure to follow these protocols and expectations will result in consequences at the discretion of the Program Leader of Skill & Training.
Industry Placement Packs from Year 10s Set Plan Interviews
The paperwork your son was given following his SET plan needs to be completed and returned to the Pathway Hub by Friday, the 10th of November. If he did not receive any paperwork at the end of the SET plan interview, please let me know. I can follow up with your son and provide him with a pack to complete.
Work Experience
Any year 10, or senior student/s wishing to organise a week of work experience during the December/January Holidays needs to have finalised all the necessary paperwork by Friday 17th November. At this stage, 2 students will be doing work experience these holidays to ascertain if a certain occupation is a good fit for them. I aim to facilitate all senior students to participate in work experience whilst at school.
Certificate III in Business opportunity
For any year students who will be in year 10, 11 or 12 in 2024 wishing to undertake a Certificate III in Business through TAFE at school please come to the Pathways Hub for information about this course.
Zeb Kyle | Program Leader Skills and Training
Counselling Corner
Thank you to all the year 10 students who nominated for the 2024 Peer Mentor program. With so many great applicants offering their support to the incoming year 7’s, it was no easy feat selecting next year’s Peer Mentors.
From Ms McLeod, Ms Derwent, Ms Burnett, Mr Jackson, and Mr Lucus, we thank all students who took the time and effort to complete their applications. We would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate and introduce to the IPC community the 2024 Peer Mentors.
Congratulations to Baillie House: Ethan Catt, Luke Swain; Carew House: Bentley Duncanson, Brooklin Robinson; Nolan House: Kobe Kenworthy, Max Reeves; Putney House: Ethan Cavanagh, David Shilu; Reid House: Byron Morris, Joshua Symons; Rice House: Harrison Biggins, Hayden King; and Treacy: Elliott Gilmore, Gordon Richards.
Co-Curricular
CONGRATULATIONS
Well done to Tamiana Fatiaki, who recently competed at the NQ All Schools Athletics meet in Mackay over the last school holidays, in which he represented Ignatius Park College as an independent Athlete. Tamiana has qualified to compete at the Australian Nationals at Perth in December for 100m, 200m and 400m. His placings at NQ All Schools were 1st in 400m, 2nd in 200m and 2nd in 100m—a fantastic result.
RUGBY UNION NEWS | Cairns Showdown - A Weekend of Triumph and Sportsmanship
The weekend of October 21st and 22nd was a significant one for our 1st XV and U14 development teams as they embarked on their annual pilgrimage to Cairns to face Saint Augustine’s. This annual event is not only about fierce rugby competition but also a testament to camaraderie and excellent hospitality. As always, the Cairns trip did not disappoint.
U14
The U14 development team took the field on Sunday morning, and they displayed exceptional skill, composure, and sportsmanship throughout the game. Their performance was nothing short of special, leaving everyone in awe of their talent. What stood out was their unwavering commitment to good defense, attacking flair, and respect for the game.
The scoreboard may have shown a commanding 65-0 victory, with 11 tries to our name, but it hardly reflected the fierce competition and the high quality of the game. The tries were a testament to the team’s unity and skill, with standout performances from several players. Rafael Josifoski, Nehemiah Tagaloa (2), Taj Viliamu, Tania A Fatiaki (2 tries), Blaize Goodwin (2), Mitchell Riley (2), and Will Thiele all scored well deserved tries with Tamiana Fatiaki, kicking five conversions as well.
The result was impressive, but it’s essential to acknowledge the sportsmanship displayed by our boys and Saint Augustine’s players. Both teams showcased tremendous respect for the game, their opponents, and the spirit of rugby.
1st XV
Following the electrifying U14 game, the spotlight shifted to the fierce battleground where the newly crowned 1ST XV team unleashed their power. With hearts pounding and anticipation in the air, spectators knew they were in for a nail-biting contest where victory and the annual trophy hung in the balance.
In a pulsating clash divided into three intense 20-minute sessions, the players showcased unparalleled determination and grit. The stadium was silenced as IPC charged ahead, seizing the rhythm in the first third. Yet, the game took an exhilarating turn in the second session as St Augustine’s, fuelled by sheer determination, exploited defensive gaps, snatching the lead and setting the stage for a heart-stopping finale.
As the tension escalated, the final session gripped everyone in its thrilling embrace. Spectators clung to the edges of their seats, their breaths suspended, waiting to witness the ultimate victor emerge. In a display of unwavering resolve and nerves of steel, IPC rallied their forces, channelling their inner champions. With unmatched composure, they seized control, dominating the third session and clinching the game with a triumphant roar, the scoreboard blazing 29-17. The annually awarded trophy would remain with IPC.
Tries: Pio Kelemete x 3, Tama Rupena x 2
Conversions: Leslie Trimmer x 2
MVPs: 3 – Josh Morton, 2 – Pio Kelemete, 1 – Tama Rupena and Reagan Knowles
This annual event is not just about the game itself but also about the lasting memories it creates and the bonds that are strengthened. We look forward to the next chapter when Saint Augustine’s visits us in Term 1 of 2024.
A big thank you is due to the dedicated individuals who made this trip possible. Thanks to Mrs Williamson for her help pre-trip, Mr Deans, Mr. Turner, and Mr. Denny who accompanied me and gave up their weekend to support and guide the boys, their commitment to the teams is truly appreciated. Without their unwavering support, such incredible experiences would not be possible.
All in all the weekend was a huge success with all involved having a good time.
Rugby Union Cairns Trip
