Term 2 Week 6 College Newsletter
Acknowledgement of Country
From the Principal
Dear Parents/Carers and Students,
This week we hosted our Mother & Son evening as part of the Rite Journey Program for our Year 9 boys. It was wonderful to see the boys dressed up accompanying their mothers to their tables, carrying their drinks, getting their dessert, dancing together, but more importantly laughing with each other and enjoying conversation and meal. A wonderful tribute to all mothers and a special occasion for our Year 9 boys on this journey. The evening would not have been possible without the organisation from Mrs Donna Rose, and the time and effort that Mr Owen Flanagan has put into the program throughout the year to ensure its success. We were also lucky to have two recent old boys of the College return and talk to the guests on their experience of reaching this milestone, and also of the significance of their mothers in their lives. Riley Innes and Riley Snell who are both studying medicine at JCU, were in agreeance that without the influence, love, care and guidance of their mothers, they would not be doing what they are today. It was a great evening, and I am looking forward to the father son evening coming up in term 3.
As a boys’ school, we see significant value in this program and the opportunities that it presents for our young men. We have invested heavily in staff training, ensuring that we are creating meaningful opportunities for interaction and meaningful experiences with camp. This program is about making a clear and deliberate series of events for our boys that tell them that they are developing into your men and highlighting the responsibilities that come with this development.
As we well and truly hit the second half of the term, many students should be ensuring that they are staying on top of their assessment, study and homework obligations. End of semester reports will be issued after term 2, and now is the time for our boys to be prioritising a focus on their academics in readiness for these assessment tasks.
Our science labs are just a couple of weeks away, and I have been assured that they will be well and truly open for business at the start of term 3. Keep an eye out on our College Facebook page for some photos of the progress.
Sadly, we have continual concerns regarding students departing the school grounds, during school times, without being signed out. We have a duty of care to ensure that your son is accounted for during the school day. A reminder to all families regarding the process for collecting your son from school during school time.
If you son does contact you during the school day via their mobile phone, please advise him to seek the assistance of a staff member at school and the staff will contact you, should the need arise. We would also appreciate you instilling the school rules regarding student’s use of their mobile phone during school time. This is not allowed. https://www.ipc.qld.edu.au/our-college/policies/mobile-phone-and-electronic-device-policy/
If they are feeling unwell during a class lesson, they are to have the approval of the teacher in charge to leave the class, the teacher will make a note in the student’s diary for the sick bay staff. The sick bay will then contact you should the need arise.
Appointments/Leaving Early
Should a student be leaving school during a school day, they are required to be signed out from the front office and the parent/carer sighted by the staff at student reception.
Should someone other than the Parent/Carer, or someone listed as an authorised contact on the student file be tasked with collecting a student, the College will require this information emailed through prior to the time of departure.
Must sight person collection student - We continue to ask parents/carers not to phone or text their son/s from their vehicle to leave the school grounds, you - the authorised person, are required to physically come into the office and be sighted by a member of staff on front reception. This way we can ensure your son is not at risk and we can verify from you of their early departure. I am aware this process may seem inconvenient for some, but we need to ensure the safety of your son if he leaves the school grounds early.
Note in diary - Student appointments/early departures should be recorded in your son/s diary with your signature, if they are scheduled during school times. This diary note authorises the class teacher to release your son from his class. Students are then responsible for ensuring they leave the classroom at the required time to meet you. This ensures that classes are not being continuously disrupted with calls to classrooms or over the loudspeaker.
If you do forget to advise the College of an appointment in advance, please remember that at times the students are not in an actual classroom, therefore it will take time to have them attend the office to meet you - therefore, at times you may have to wait for them.
Enjoy the rest of your week.
Luke Thomson | Principal
Curriculum Corner
Key dates for Term 2 (dates subject to change)
| May 19-30 | Year 11 End of Unit 1 Examination & Assessment Phase |
| Monday 16-26 June | Year 7-10 and Year 12 Examination and Assessment Phase |
| June 9 & 16 | Year 10 Subject Talks |
| June 13 | Year 11 & 12 Reports Issued |
Year 11 Subject Changes
Year 11 Students have the opportunity to undertake subject changes for the next couple of weeks. With Unit 1 completed, it is an opportune time for students to be reflecting on their results and subject pathways. Any student wishing to change their subject are to follow the process below:
- Subject Change form obtained from the Edmund Rice Office
- Obtain feedback and signatures from:
- Teacher of Current Subject
- Teacher of New Subject
- Faculty Leader of New Subject
- Subject Change form signed by student and parent/carer
- Submit fully completed Subject Change form to Edmund Rice Office by no later than Friday 6 June
PLEASE NOTE: Availability in some elective and VET subjects may be limited due to existing class sizes and timetable clashes.
Year 12 - Tracking your Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Attainment
With Unit 3 now complete, it is important all Year 12 students are aware of their QCE status. The quickest, most efficient and accurate way to undertake this is through the Student Portal on the QCAA myQCE website at: https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au/
See Image 1 below for example
To attain a QCE, students must achieve:
- a set amount of learning: accrue at least 20 QCE points
- at a set standard: achieve a satisfactory or C standard for General and Applied subjects. Complete all requirements of Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualifications
- in a set pattern: at least 12 points from Core learning (ie. Applied/General/Certificate II VET subjects) and a maximum of 4 points from Preparatory learning (ie. Certificate I VET and short courses)
- while meeting literacy and numeracy requirements: pass any unit of English/Maths or successfully complete a QCAA Short Course.
Parents of Year 12 students who are at-risk of not attaining a QCE will be contacted by the College over the next week. These students will be offered additional studies to undertake in Semester 2 to enhance their chances of attaining their QCE.
To find out more information, click on this link.
Year 10 Senior Education and Training (SET) Plans - Choosing the Right Subjects for 2025 and 2026
This term in Pastoral Care (PACA) lessons, Year 10 students will embark on their SET Plan Journeys. Every Year 10 student in Queensland is required to develop a SET Plan.
Developing a SET Plan helps students:
- investigate possible careers and future study options they may be interested in post-school
- structure their learning in Years 11 and 12 around their abilities, interests and ambitions
- ensure their learning options allow them to pursue preferred study, further education and training, and career goals
- map their pathway to a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).
Parents play an extremely important part in this process. Some important dates for parents include:
Monday 21 July, Subject Showcase Evening: parents have an opportunity to talk to teachers about Year 11 and 12 subjects for their son as well as develop their understanding about the Senior Phase of Learning in Queensland. Additionally, representatives from industry and tertiary institutions will be in attendance to answer questions about pathways after school.
Tuesday 19 and Monday 20 August, SET Plan Interviews: In these interviews, students will explain to interviewers their preferred subjects for years 11 and 12 and justify their reasons for choosing these subjects. Parents are asked to attend these interviews to ‘sign off’ on their son’s SET Plans and ensure they are fully aware of his intended learning pathway.
Term 2 Assessment
Parent Lounge is the quickest and easiest way to keep track of the assessment your son has coming up towards the end of Term 2. This can be a busy time with assessment and extra-curricular activities. Being organised is essential.
Log onto Parent Lounge and click on the “Curricular Activities Due” tab on the left-hand menu. This will open a page that lists the assessment items your son(s) will complete this term, along with key dates for drafts and final copies to be completed. See Images 2 and 3 below for examples.
Lesley Gardner | Director of Curriculum
IMAGE 1: Tracking your QCE Attainment
IMAGE 2 & 3: Term 2 Assessment
Identity and Mission
Dear Parents & Carers,
Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week offer Australian Catholics more than just moments of remembrance. They call us to action rooted in faith and justice. Guided by Catholic Social Teaching and the Gospel message of reconciliation, we are invited to listen deeply to First Nations voices, acknowledge historical and ongoing injustices, and walk together in truth and healing. Across the country, Catholic communities are marking these days with prayer, liturgy, and learning as part of a long journey toward a more just and compassionate Australia.
Have Your Say – Identity & Mission Feedback Survey
As Ignatius Park College prepares to develop its next Strategic Plan (2026–2029), we are seeking input from our College community to help shape the future direction of our Identity and Mission.
We invite parents, students, staff, and members of our wider community to take part in a short survey that offers the opportunity to share both commendations and recommendations. Your responses will be used to reflect on how we are living out our Touchstones, and how our Vision and Mission as a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition can continue to grow and flourish.
👉 Click here to complete the Parent & Community survey: I&M Survey Link
Your voice is important. Thank you for helping us build a stronger Ignatius Park for the years ahead.
Loving and Eternal God,
We give you thanks for guiding the Church in every age and for the gift of Pope Leo XIV.
May his leadership be a beacon of faith and love,
a voice of justice and mercy,
and a source of unity for your people across the world.
Inspire him with the wisdom of the Spirit
and strengthen him for the journey ahead.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
In faith and service,
Mark Holmes | Director of Identity & Mission
Director of Students
Rite Journey Mother/Son Dinner Dance – Oh What a Night.
The Ignatius Park College Year 9 Rite Journey Mother Son Dinner Dance was a resounding success, marking a heartfelt milestone in the lives of the young men and their mothers. Held in an atmosphere filled with warmth, reflection, and celebration, the event beautifully embodied the spirit of the Rite Journey program—honouring growth, gratitude, and the special bond between mother and son.
The evening featured a blend of formal and personal moments, including speeches, shared reflections, and the ever-popular dance floor, where laughter and joy radiated throughout the venue. Students expressed their appreciation to their mothers through letters and thoughtful conversations, often moving both parents and staff to tears. It was a night that highlighted maturity, respect, and the importance of acknowledging those who nurture and guide us.
Organized with care by staff and volunteers, the event ran smoothly, with exceptional food, music, and decorations adding to the ambience. The dance floor saw sons and mothers stepping outside their comfort zones, dancing and enjoying one another’s company in a relaxed and festive setting.
Overall, the 2025 Mother Son Dinner Dance was more than just a social gathering—it was a meaningful rite of passage that will be remembered fondly by all who attended.
Year 8 Camp Week 7
The upcoming Year 8 Camp at Ignatius Park College promises to be an exciting and transformative experience for our young men. As part of our Outdoor Education and Rite of Passage program, the camp is designed to build resilience, independence, and teamwork through a variety of physical and emotional challenges.
Set in a natural outdoor setting, students will step outside their comfort zones, developing confidence and problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Activities are purposefully structured to encourage self-reflection, leadership, and personal growth.
This camp is a key moment in our boys’ journey at Ignatius Park, helping them prepare for future challenges with strength and character. It’s more than just a camp—it’s a meaningful step in becoming young men of integrity and resilience.
Punctuality to School
In previous communications, I have discussed the importance of arriving at school on time to learn. There is an ongoing issue with regard to a number of students arriving at school late without reason. During the remainder of this term, the Pastoral Team will be finalising a refreshed approach to late arrivals to school, which will be implemented at the beginning of term 3.
Arriving to school on time is a vital part of a student’s success at Ignatius Park College. Punctuality sets a positive tone for the day, ensuring students don’t miss out on important announcements, instructions, and valuable learning time. Being on time also teaches responsibility and respect - for teachers, classmates, and the learning environment. It helps students develop strong routines and good habits that support academic achievement and future success beyond school. Consistently arriving late can lead to gaps in learning and increased stress. By prioritising punctuality, students show they are committed, prepared, and ready to make the most of each day. I thank all families for working in partnership with the College as we continue to work to improve our educational tone.
John Deer | Director of Students
Skills & Training Hub
The Pathways Hub have been busy these last few weeks working as a part of the team to deliver the schools own Careers Expo. This year, the Ignatius Park College Careers Expo involved students in years 10, 11 and 12 moving around the school between different stallholders and sitting in and listening to a variety of professionals speak about their chosen careers. It was wonderful to hear from the various speakers on the day and engage with different businesses and industries to learn about what opportunities are provided for the young men or Ignatius Park College.
Week 7 (2nd – 6th June) is the Year 11 and 12 Industry Placement week. During this week, many of our students will be out in the community working and gaining practical skills and experience. Some classes will be collapsed; others will continue to run. There will be space in the LRC for students to sit and work quietly when needed. I am looking forward to going out and visiting students on their industry placement, making connections with employers and seeing our young men represent themselves and their school with pride. For our year 12 boys, this is the second last chance you will have to complete a scheduled industry placement ‘block’ of time. It is time to start asking questions about your future and what opportunities are available for you. Be brave and have these conversations.
Kristy Clarke | Program Leader - Skills & Training
Careers Hub
Celebrating National Careers Week – 12th – 18th May
We had such a busy week in Week 4 as we celebrated National Careers week throughout the College. Students from all year levels engaged in a range of daily activities which saw many students racing to the Pathways Hub with their answers. It was great to see the boys engaging and having fun and some of the boys were lucky to come away with some prizes for their efforts. A big shout out to Henry Hedger, George Tanner, Lucas Morrish, Ashton Catalano and Zavier Goncalves for their on-going participation and enthusiasm throughout the week.
As part of this week, we also hosted our own Careers Expo which included an afternoon of networking with varying industries and students listening to professionals speak about their chosen careers. It was a great opportunity for our students. A very big thank you to all our exhibitors and guest speakers for providing such an informative and meaningful afternoon for our young men.
See our gallery below, for some photos from our Careers Week.
Year 12 Pathway Conversations
As part of our ongoing support for Year 12 students during this important stage of their education, our Senior School team will soon begin meeting individually with each student to discuss their post-school pathways and transition plans. Interviews will commence in Week 7 and will be completed by Week 9. It is encouraged that parents speak with your son about his career goals and the upcoming meeting. If parents and carers have any questions or would like to be involved in the process, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
JCU Webinar Series: Unmasking the ATAR System Webinar
Hosted by JCU and QTAC, this one-hour interactive webinar will provide you with a greater understanding of:
- The role of the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC) in calculating and awarding students Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR) and making uni offers.
- How different subjects are graded, which subjects cannot be studied together and how subject scaling can assist in the ATAR calculation process.
- The importance of subject selection going into Year 11 such as prerequisites for certain university courses.
- How students can access their ATAR, and what a QTAC application looks like.
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JCU Navigate YOU Summit – closing soon
The inaugural James Cook University (JCU) Navigate YOU Summit is a live-in program offering current Year 10 students the chance to experience university life during the school holidays. The program is an entirely immersive residential program that is fully funded by JCU.
Student Application: Students are required to submit their completed application by Friday 30 May 2025. Late or incomplete applications may not be accepted, as places are limited. Applications can be submitted online or a hard copy can be emailed to you by contacting outreach@jcu.edu.au
UQ (University of Queensland) Ready
Your guide to transitioning from high school to university. Discover how to prepare for and get your questions answered. More information and registration is available HERE.
JCU Heroes Programs
JCU’s Heroes programs are open to all year 11 and 12 students and give you behind the scenes access into what your dream career may look like. JCU works with our industry partners including the Mater Hospital, North West Hospital and Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Glencore, Daintree Rainforest Observatory, Queensland Country Bank and the North Queensland Cowboys to give you a chance to meet the experts and experience a day in their lives. Upcoming Programs include:
Science Program (see below), Engineering (31 July), Sport (18 & 20 August), Business (2 September), Vet (5 September). View all the upcoming programs and for more information and registrations refer here > JCU Heroes Programs - JCU Australia
JCU Heroes in Science Program
This program is occurring in the upcoming school holidays in Cairns this year and will include the Daintree Rainforest Observatory. If you are interested in attending, please apply by 1 June HERE.
JCU Webinars
JCU offer a range of webinars for you to gain knowledge, develop new skills and find inspiration. See what’s on offer HERE.
QTAC (Qld Tertiary Admissions Centre) Guide
QTAC guides for 2026 have arrived and will be handed out to students next week. You can also find the guide online HERE.
CQUniversity – Year 12s, Parents & Supporters Webinar
Graduating high school and starting university is an exciting time for Year 12 students. CQU understand you have questions about how to navigate this transition with so much information out there to find and filter through. Whether you're a student, or supporting a student in Year 12, we're here to help you get all the answers you need. Register HERE to the upcoming information session.
Defence Work Experience
Work experience opportunities are being offered by Defence Recruiting over the next few months. If you’re interested in applying, please see me in the Pathways Hub to discuss. More information can be found HERE.
Work Experience: June/July Holidays – Years 10, 11 & 12
Work experience for the next set of holidays is open. Students who are interested should start to organise their work experience and paperwork. Please see staff in the Pathways Hub for more information or email pathways@ipc.qld.edu.au
Need help with your Resume?
If you're not sure how to write a resume, don't worry — you're not alone, and we're here to help. Whether you're starting from scratch or just need guidance along the way, we can support you step-by-step to create a resume that highlights your skills, experience, and strengths. Pop into the Pathways Hub and we’ll get you started.
Apprenticeship Programs
Powerlink Apprenticeship Program - 2026 I Brisbane, Gladstone & Townsville – refer HERE for more information
Hastings Deering 2026 Apprenticeship Intake - I’m pleased to share that the 2026 Apprentice Campaign is officially underway! Applications have officially opened and will remain open for three weeks, closing at midnight on Sunday, June 15th. Students can apply here: Hastings Deering Apprenticeship Intake
Apprenticeships Central – scroll through all the amazing opportunities currently available in various industries. Search Here Now.
Sheena King | Careers Counsellor
2025 IPC Careers Expo
Student Wellbeing
Combined Schools Musical - We Will Rock You!
Our Combined Schools' Musical is nearly here! You can purchase your last-minute tickets via this link:
https://ticketshop.townsville.qld.gov.au/WEBPAGES/EntaWebShow/ShowPerformance.aspx
School TV
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
Vilton Crasto | Director of Business Operations