Term 3 Week 4 College Newsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers,

It was a pleasure to present our College Diligence awards on assembly last week.  The awardees were recognised based on their semester 1 report cards, and while achievement was one measure that could earn an award, effort was also recognised.  Every student can achieve one of these awards, no matter what level of achievement that they are working at, provided they are working to the best of their ability, and meeting staff expectations.  Congratulations to the students who were recognised.

This week we hosted St Patricks Mackay in the school boys challenge Rugby League games.  Hosting the games at the College was not something that we have done for a few years, and there is no doubt that many of the boys appreciated the opportunity to watch games during their break times.  We also tried something new, based on our IPC points for the first time.  You may be aware that students can be awarded IPC points for doing positive things around the College that link to our values of integrity, pride and commitment.  This is part of our college push toward an increased culture of positive student behaviour.  While in the past we have acknowledged our students in various ways, including the famous ‘assembly skybox’, the home games allowed us to recognise a wider group of students, with our top 100 IPC points awardees being offered a ‘ticket’ to the second half of the football game.  This was well received by those who were awarded tickets, and it was great to offer those students recognition for their positive contribution to the College.

An extension of our positive behaviour program has been the formation of a staff committee who has been looking at school wide programs designed to support staff to minimise low level behaviour during learning time, allowing all students to better focus on learning throughout their lessons.  This committee has visited other school across different sectors and has been working hard to look at models that are fit for purpose for IPC.  We are aiming for a holistic model, that not only works to prevent poor choices by our students, but also looks at the pedagogical approaches of staff to ensure that we are doing all that we can to engage our boys in their learning. I look forward to sharing more information on this initiative as it continues to come together.

We have two big events this weekend, the first of which is Iggy Under the Stars this evening.  I know that tickets have sold out and it promises to be a fantastic evening with our students showcasing their skills and talents.  Best of luck to all involved.

Also this weekend our rowers will be participating in the NQ schools rowing championships at riverway.  We are approaching the pointy end of the rowing season, and this weekend is a great opportunity for our athletes to test themselves against a wider competition base.  Again, good luck to all involved and I am sure that you will do the College proud.

And finally, I would like to share with you an email that I received from a member of the public last week.  This email is an is a great example of the integrity and pride that our boys regularly demonstrate, even when no-one is watching.  Below is the email that I received.

Today I went into Hermit Park Post Office. When I entered there was one of your students (possibly a Y10/11 student) at the counter. As I approached he turned away from the counter and said "You go Miss I have to make a phone call", he stepped away to one side. I completed my transaction at the counter and when I turned he was standing waiting back at the end of the line. As I left I stopped and complimented him on his manners. Unfortunately, I don't know who he was but he was certainly a great representative for the college.

A great advertisement for our College within the local community.  Have a great fortnight.

Luke Thomson | Principal

2025 Year 7 Enrolments

Enrolment applications for Year 7 2025 and 2026 are currently being accepted.  Applications are available via  this link. 
Year 7 Enrolments for 2025 will be closing very soon, so please apply ASAP. Please complete the online Enrolment Application including the following documentation:

• Birth Certificate (if born overseas we will also need passport and visa documentation)
• Baptism Certificate (if Catholic) as well as any additional Sacramental Certificates
• Semester 2, 2023 Report (and 2024 reports as available throughout the year)
• Year 5 Naplan (when available)
• Any legal or learning support documentation if applicable
• Immunisation Statement
• Medicare Card details

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the Enrolments Officer
E: enrolments@ipc.qld.edu.au

Curriculum Corner

What’s ahead for Term 3

July 22 – 6 August      Year 11 Mid Unit 2 Exam Phase

July 25 – 9 August      Year 12 IA3 Exam Phase

August 14                    SET Plan Interviews

August 15                    SET Plan Interviews

September 4 – 12       College Exam Phase: Year 7 – 10, Year 11 End of Unit 2, Year 12 Mock Exams

DILIGENCE AWARDS

Recently we celebrated Semester One Diligence Awards. The deserving recipients all demonstrated outstanding work ethic in Semester One, achieving straight A’s across all subjects, or all A’s except for 1 subject which was no less than a B, for their efforts in class. This is a great achievement, and students and parents should be very proud of this success. Congratulations to all students below. 

Award recipients included:

YEAR 11 AND YEAR 12 EXAMS

The Year 11 End of Unit 2, and Year 12 IA3 exam schedule is Live on our website. These exams are continuing from last week, right up until week 5. Students and parents can view the schedule here:  https://www.ipc.qld.edu.au/studies/exams-assessment-study-documents/.

Please note that this schedule only covers exams. Please refer to Student Café / Parent Lounge for assignment draft and due dates.

YEAR 10 SET PLAN AND INTERVIEW BOOKINGS

All students have now selected their subjects for 2025. If your son has not yet done this (the portal will be closed), please email curriculum@ipc.qld.edu.au as soon as possible.  

Students are now completing their SET Plan script for their interviews which will be held in Week 6, Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 August. Interview bookings are made through Parent Lounge (parents/carers will receive information about how to make bookings soon) and will be open on Monday 5 August at 10.00am. Students will be assigned to a specific SET Plan interviewer and it is important parents are in attendance.

Please note that SET Plan interviews are compulsory. Subject selections will not be processed and students will not be enrolled in senior subjects until a SET Plan interview has been completed with the student and a parent/carer.

The SET Plan interview gives students an opportunity to explain and justify the choices for their senior years of schooling. The senior schooling expectations and obligations will be presented and the SET Plan interviewer will share some vital information about requirements put in place by the College to support you on your path to success.

HOW TO BALANCE ACADEMICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Balancing academics and extracurricular activities can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some tips to help you find a balance that works for you:

1. Prioritise your academics. Your schoolwork should always come first. This means setting aside enough time each day to study and complete your assignments. If you are struggling in a class, be sure to get help from a or teacher, attend Homework program or visit Help A Brother Out.
2. Choose extracurricular activities that are important to you. Choose activities that you're passionate about and that will help you develop your skills and interests.
3. Set limits on your commitments. It's crucial to set limits on your commitments. You won't be able to accomplish any of them well if you take on too much.
4. Manage your time effectively. Use a planner or calendar to track your schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and other commitments. This will help you stay organised and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
5. Take breaks. It is important to take breaks from studying and extracurricular activities. You'll be able to stay alert and focused if you do this.
6. Start planning early. Consider your interests and the times that extracurricular programs meet. You may start making time plans once you have a better understanding of your schedule.
7. Be realistic about your commitments. Try not to attempt too much at once. Spreading yourself too thin is worse than concentrating on a few things you're enthusiastic about.
8. Don't be afraid to say no. It's okay to turn down invitations to extracurricular activities if you don't have time or if they aren't a good fit for you.
9. Ask for help if you need it. If you're struggling to balance your academics and extracurricular activities, talk to your parents, Pastoral Co-ordinator, Homeroom teacher or teachers. They can help you develop a plan that works for you.
10. Set priorities. Decide which activities are most important to you and make sure to give them the most time and attention.
11. Delegate tasks. If you have too much on your plate, don't be afraid to ask for help from your parents, friends, or teachers.
12. Take care of yourself. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly. This will help you stay healthy and focused.

Balancing academics and extracurricular activities is an important skill that will help you succeed in high school and beyond. By following these tips, you can find a balance that works for you and achieve your goals.

12 Tips to Balance Academics and Extracurricular Activities | The Princeton Review. Available at: https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/12-tips-to-balance-academics-and-extracurriculars (Accessed: 31 July 2024).

Lesley Gardner | Director of Curriculum

Pastoral Place

The Importance of Belonging at Ignatius Park College

At Ignatius Park College, we believe that a sense of belonging is fundamental to student success. When students feel connected and valued, they are more likely to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Belonging fosters a supportive environment where students can express themselves, take risks, and engage more deeply in their learning. It encourages collaboration, reduces stress, and promotes resilience. Our house system is designed to not only foster but enhance that sense of belonging in our community.

We strive to create an inclusive community where every student is seen, heard, and respected. This means celebrating diversity, practicing empathy, and ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need. By building strong relationships among students, teachers, and staff, we cultivate a positive atmosphere that benefits everyone at Ignatius Park College.

Understanding and Preventing Sextortion

As we navigate the digital age, it's crucial to address the issue of sextortion—a form of online exploitation where individuals are coerced into sending explicit images or performing sexual acts under threat. This serious crime can affect anyone, particularly young people who may not fully understand the risks involved.

At a recent Professional Development seminar I attended, I discovered an entire world of code and abbreviated messages used by our teenagers, as well as others seeking to gain their trust online, which I was completely unaware of. They are both worrying and problematic, as essentially it is a new language being used which is designed to be unable to be understood by adults. If your son is typing something on his screen that makes no sense to you, enquire what it means. Keep the conversation open with him.

Education is key to prevention. We encourage parents and guardians to have open conversations with their children about internet safety. Students should be aware that sharing intimate content can have severe consequences and that they should never feel pressured to share anything they’re uncomfortable with. Some important information for parents can be found here.

If you or someone you know is being targeted, it’s important to seek help immediately. Report the incident to a trusted adult, school counselor, or law enforcement. Ignatius Park College is committed to providing support and resources to keep our community safe.

John Deer | Director of Students

Identity and Mission

Dear Parents & Carers,

Ignatius Park Students Team Up with Althea Projects to Support the Townsville Community

This term, the Identity and Missions team at Ignatius Park College has partnered with Althea Projects to make a meaningful difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of the Townsville community. Every Monday and Thursday morning, a dedicated group of Year 12 students volunteer their time and energy to cook hot breakfasts for those in need.

The students prepare delicious bacon and egg rolls for people facing challenging circumstances, providing a warm meal and a friendly face. This initiative goes beyond simply serving food; it offers a chance for these young men to engage with individuals who are often overlooked, ensuring they feel heard and valued.

Participating in this program has been an eye-opening experience for the students of Ignatius Park. They work diligently to foster an environment of respect and compassion, demonstrating the values of the Edmund Rice Tradition. The students have learned that a small gesture of kindness can have a significant impact, and they are committed to making a difference in the lives of those who are doing it tough.

As we continue to support this vital initiative, we are reaching out to the Ignatius Park community for assistance. We need donations, particularly men's clothing, to help provide additional support to those in need. If you have any gently used clothes that you are willing to donate, please drop them off at the school reception.

Together, we can continue to make a positive impact and show our community that they are not alone.

EREBB – Global Classroom Partners GCP  International Meetings – Year 9 Middle Leaders

Our Year 9 Middle Leaders have had some really good conversations with our partner International schools over TEAMS meetings in the new LRC facility this week. Besides introducing ‘who we are’ and ‘where we come from’ and showcasing video footage of our respective schools, topics of conversation included:

• How can we live in peace with different cultures/beliefs ?
• The ZPHS Indian School demonstrated and explained how Christians, Hindus and Muslims live in unity.
• How does Sport unite the world? No Russian Flag at Paris Olympics 2024
• What are some special features of North Queensland including the Great Barrier Reef, Magnetic Island and our unique animals – Kangaroos, Koalas, Kookaburras and our favourite hobbies – fishing, sports etc.

I can proudly and confidently say we had great outcomes and successful interactions between our Year 9 Boys and our partner EREA and International schools.

The dialogue and conversations between the students and staff was outstanding, special mention and thanks to:

• ZPHS School, Llavaram, Andhra Pradesh, India and Teacher Hari.

Mark Holmes | Director of Identity & Mission

Wellbeing Update

A Special Report: Sextortion

You may not be familiar with the term, but ‘sextortion' is a form of blackmail where someone threatens to share intimate images of you unless you give in to their demands. It has been an issue for more than a decade, with many adults falling victim to this type of online crime. More recently though, it has been reported that there has been a higher rate of adolescent males falling victim, but that is not to say that young females are not also targeted.

Across the globe, organised criminal gangs are using social media, chat apps, instant messaging platforms and online games to target and connect with their victims. Recently, there has been a 400% increase in this type of crime being reported to police in Australia alone with these figures being replicated in most western countries. Any child that uses an online account to connect on social media, chat apps, instant messaging platforms or online games needs to understand the dangers associated with engaging with random people that they don’t know personally. Therefore, it is vitally important for adult carers to be aware of this serious issue and to start having an age appropriate conversation with their young person as early as possible to help protect them from online offenders making demands.

Even though your young person’s online account may be set to private, random people can still message your child. Managing devices can be difficult especially with older teens, but it is important to weigh up the risks and dangers. Sadly, even good kids who never make a poor decision elsewhere in their life, can and do make poor choices online.

This Special Report explains how your young person can fall victim to such a crime and what action to take to support them.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we 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 your special report:
https://ipc.qld.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-sextortion

Christian Quabba | Dean of Student Wellbeing

Pathways Hub

School-based Apprenticeship

We are happy to announce that Wilfred Stephen (11 Nolan) has been signed up as a Boilermaker school-based apprenticeship with Engineering Industries Australia Pty Ltd. Congratulations Wilfred on securing this opportunity to gain skills and a qualification whilst still at school. 

Upcoming Industry Placement

All the VET and Industry Placement students will be out on industry placement in Week 7 (19-23 August). This is a fantastic opportunity for the Year 11s to try different trades and for the Year 12s to begin to secure their future careers.  This is also the last time that we will be placing our Year 12 students.  In Term 4 the year 12 students will need to arrange their own placements.

If the students wish to change placements for Term 3, they must have the purple Change of Placement form completed and lodged with the Pathways office by Friday 2^nd August 2024 (Week 4).  If they are received after this date the student will be changed in Term 4.

Zeb Kyle | Program Leader of Skills and Training

Careers

Townsville Careers Expo

Students from Years 10 to 12 attended the Townsville Careers Expo this week.

As North Queensland’s largest and most comprehensive careers, employment, and training event, the expo provided the latest and most up-to-date career opportunities available in Australia. The students found it an invaluable experience to speak firsthand with exhibitors, gaining insights and information directly from industry professionals.

Year 12 University Applications & ATAR account

QTAC opens Thursday 1^st August

• Register your account to obtain your ATAR: https://www.qtac.edu.au/atar/
• Submit your QLD University preferences

QTAC Remind Me is a service run by QTAC that enables students, parents, guardians and non-Year 12's customers to opt-in to receive timely reminders regarding ATAR release, application reminders, upcoming key dates and important admissions information. Subscribers of Remind Me benefit from receiving reminders via both SMS and email, beginning in mid-July, and finishing in February, with a break in between for Year 12 students during the block-out period for exams. 

JCU Early Offer Program

Enjoy the reassurance of knowing you have secured a place at JCU prior to ATAR results being released.* An early offer will empower you to finish Year 12 with confidence, having already secured your post-schooling pathway.

You'll also have access to JCU’s support services earlier, ensuring a seamless transition to university life.

* Offers are conditional on completion of the Queensland Certificate of Education (or equivalent). Other conditions may also apply.

Students wishing to be considered for an early offer need to:

• Submit their chosen JCU course as preference #1
• Collect a nomination form from Mrs Williamson @ Pathways Hub

Do you have students interested in a career in business?

JCU in partnership with Queensland Country Bank are excited to announce the 2024 Heroes in Business Program. This one-day program is open to students in Years 11 and 12 and will be held in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Rockhampton and Brisbane in September 2024. View the flyer for location dates.

Students will gain unique insight into professions that funnel into a business career. Our experienced Academics will lead them through the process of creating and pitching a business opportunity, including the marketing and financial implications.

JCU Advisors will be on hand to provide information about courses and uni life, and local business professionals will discuss real-world careers.

Applications are now open and close 16 August.

Please share the APPLICATION LINK with your students. Spots are limited, so please encourage them to apply before the cutoff date. We look forward to your students participating in the program.

IPC Chess

The 3^rd and final round of the North Regional Schools Chess competition will be held at IGNATIUS PARK COLLEGE on Wednesday 7^th August (Week 5).  This is an all-day school event where your son will be out of lessons for the day.  Students wishing to register need to email Mr John Fuller (john.fuller@ipc.qld.edu.au) and simply type “YES to CHESS” in the subject column of the email.  Once received, I will send an invite to each student via Parent Lounge.  Registration payment of $22 will then need to be made by a parent / carer via Parent Lounge.

Academic or ­­HPE uniform can be worn on this day.  If your son knows his way around a chess board and is keen on playing some competitive chess in a relaxed setting, then this is the day for him.

Healthy Minds Project

On Wednesday, 24^th July, the IPC Healthy Minds Project (HMP) Crew, along with 4 other schools, attended the 2^nd HMP workshop, facilitated by the amazing Unleashing Personal Potential (UPP) team, supported students to ‘put their wellbeing initiative ideas into action!’

The HMP Crew (below) are planning activities to promote student wellbeing and grow ‘Healthy Minds’ during Mental Health Week - Term 4 Week 2. 

Student Counsellors – Mrs. Derwent and Ms. McLeod
Baillie: House - Jack Shelton, Ethan Weil, Jean Pierre (JP) Katende, Cooper Bloxsom (absent)
Carew House - Cooper Stanford, Jack Whelan, Joseph Murphy
Putney House - Fergus Daly, William Fletcher,
Reid House - Marcus Carter, Matthias Staples
Rice House - Brodie Sutton, Keagan Van Aswegan (absent)

Watch this space, to see what they have in ‘mind’ for you! 😉

Mrs. Derwent | IPC Student Counsellor

2024 Interhouse Athletics Carnival Results

Age Champions Field Events - Thursday

12  -  Gibson Westcott
13 - Cohen Kyle
14 - Barack Bourne
15 - Taj Viliamu
16 - Keagan Van Aswegen
17 - Jarrah Kemp
18 - Geoffrey Lui

Age Champions Track Events - Friday

12  -  Gibson Westcott
13 - Archer Smerdon
14 - Patrick Fanning
15 - Timothy Dixon
16 - Koby Kyle-Little
17 - Rory Foyle
18 - Jai Duxbury

Block Sport Rugby League Winners

CQUniversity Confraternity Carnival Silver Sponsor

The Crazy Good Tech Challenge

Last week all our Years 8 & 9 students participated in the Crazy Good Tech Challenge. This is a challenge supported by IBM SkillsBuild and run by facilitators from The Crazy Ideas College - https://www.crazyideascollege.com/. 

Year 8 students competed in the Challenge on Wednesday 24th July, with the Year 9 students tackling in the following day. The creative power and ingenious ideas that were on display from both groups was a joy to witness.

National Science Week 2024

North Queensland Army Open Day

Drum Ensemble Signup

National Water Week Competition

Hey Wire Competition

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 2024 can be viewed at https://www.ipc.qld.edu.au/enrolment/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 (07) 4796 0222 if you need further information.

Edstart

Ignatius Park has partnered with Edstart to assist parents in managing their school Fee payments. You can pay weekly, fortnightly, or monthly by choosing a plan that suits your budget. This is an application-based process. There are no transaction fees or interest charges when using Edstart Pay+ for your IPC fees. Visit edstart.com.au/ipc for more information on Edstart payment options.

Vilton Crasto | Director of Business Operations