Term 3 Week 10 College Newsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal

Dear Parents/Carers and Students,

Strategic Plan 2026
Thank you to those who completed our Strategic Plan survey. Your feedback is highly valued, and we have combined this with our parent survey from the last 4 years to find areas of focus moving forward.  This survey was also reaffirming to hear of the many positive areas that parents are recognising at Ignatius Park, again thank you for your feedback.

Liverpool Launch

Last Thursday we had the opportunity to launch our partnership with English Premier League Club, Liverpool with the launch of a Liverpool Academy at Ignatius Park College.  This program will allow students in years 8, 9 and 10 (in 2026) to trial later this year for a position in the academy, where they will study the Liverpool Football curriculum (prac) in lieu of a ‘normal’ PE class, while still maintaining the standard theory assessment topics.  This program is the same as our Rugby League extension program, and is focused on developing high quality players, who are also leading by example in their interactions with staff, social interaction with peers and application to studies.  The Liverpool program is a privilege and not a right for our students, and any student accepted into the program will need to maintain high standards in all areas of College life.

It was also a great opportunity at the launch to welcome Mr Paul Kohler to the College who will be the Liverpool Academy Head Coach.  I am sure that you will join me in welcoming Paul to the College and this exciting new role.

Staff Update
Following our ACER Review at the start of the year, a number of areas were highlighted for further development in the space of Learning and Teaching.  As a result of this report and other data, in consultation with the College Leadership Team, EREA Colleges and the College Advisory Council, the decision was made to create a new position as Director of Learning and Teaching.  In simple terms, this role focuses on how teachers are delivering the curriculum, rather than what they are teaching, which remains the role of the Director of Curriculum.  I am delighted to announce that Toni Martin is our new Director of Teaching and Learning. Toni brings a wealth of expertise and experience to this role from Education Queensland, and we look forward to the positive impact she will make in this role.

Co-curricular

I would like to wish our senior basketball team the best of luck as they compete at the CBSQ championships over this weekend, and also wish our 9 Rowers the best of luck as they travel to the State Titles in south east Queensland for the weekend championships. 

Holiday Break

As we finish up this term, I would like to wish you all the best over the next few weeks.  If you are travelling please do so safely, and I look forward to welcoming our students back to the College for what is always a busy term 4.

Luke Thomson  |  Principal

Curriculum Corner

Curriculum Corner

As the term draws to a close, we would like to thank the students for their commitment to engagement in the class and their professionalism when attending exams. Just a reminder, if students are unable to attend an exam due to illness, we require a Variation to Assessment/AARA accompanied by a medical certificate.

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.

Year 12

With the completion of Mock Exams, students will receive feedback this week highlighting both their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback will help guide their preparation and focus during the upcoming holiday period.

In Term 4, Year 12 students will attend classes for the first three weeks before External Exams commence on Tuesday of Week 4. The full External Exam timetable is available on our website.

Year 11

Term 4 marks the beginning of the Year 12 journey for students in both ATAR and the Skills and Training pathway. For students enrolled in General subjects, this will mean that this term they will be involved with an assessment which will have a direct contribution to their ATAR. 

For Skills and Training students, there will be assessment in their Applied subjects and competency-based tasks, all of which will contribute to their QCE. It is important that our Year 11 students maintain a consistent approach to their studies for the duration of Term 4.

Subject Changes

Subject changes will close on Monday, Week 2 of Term 4. All students in Year 11 will be required to meet with the Dean of Senior School to ensure they are still on the correct pathway.

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 (Years 11 and 12) and Variation form (Years 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.

Have a safe and enjoyable break. We look forward to welcoming all students back for Term 4.

Identity and Mission

Dear Parents & Carers, 

Dear Parents & Carers, 

Well we made it to the end of another big Term. I'd like to thank you all for your support, in supporting your son to be the best they can. I mean this in Terms of our Touchstone focus for Term 3 - Justice & Solidarity. Mr Ty Mills is the Program Leader of Faith, Learning in Action and along with our amazing assistant Mrs. Donna Knowles has worked tirelessly in this regard to raising awareness, advocate for and fundraise for the less fortunate in our community of Townsville. 

I look forward to updating you with the Term 4 focus early in October - Inclusive Community and the plans we have to increase our inclusivity and further build strong and valuable relationships with each other the wider society in many meaningful ways. 

Have a great holiday break and see you all in Term 4. 

Prayer for Justice & Solidarity

We Go Forth

God of the marginalised,

Through your prophets and through your Word

you have called us into solidarity with the broken and the humble.

Open our eyes to all our neighbours in need:

in our families; in our school; in our country; and in our world.

We ask this through your Holy Spirit, who transforms the world. 

Blessed Edmund Rice (Pray for Us) - Live Jesus in Our Hearts (Forever). 

Amen.

In faith and service,

Mark Holmes | Director of Identity & Mission

Director of Students

Skills & Training

Industry Placement Program – A Successful Week for Year 11 and 12 Students

In Week 7, our Year 11 and 12 students took part in the Industry Placement Program, gaining valuable hands-on experience, developing essential professional skills, and getting a glimpse into life within their chosen fields.

Congratulations to all students who participated – we are incredibly proud of your commitment, enthusiasm, and hard work. A special congratulations to our Year 12 students for successfully completing their final year of industry placement. We wish you all the best in your future employment, further training, and apprenticeships.

We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the employers who generously hosted our students. Your time, mentorship, and support have provided invaluable insights and real-world experiences that will help shape their future career paths. We are truly grateful for your ongoing partnership.

Important Information for Year 11 Students and Families

If your son in Year 11 is interested in undertaking work experience during Term 4, please encourage him to visit the Pathways Hub. Our team is here to assist with the necessary paperwork, including insurance documentation, which is required before any placement can begin.

Please note that Industry Placement for Year 11 students will take place in Week 5 of Term 4.
If your son wishes to change his final placement, a Change of Placement form must be completed and returned to the Pathways Hub by the end of Week 2, Term 4.

For any questions regarding Vocational Education, TAFE, and Industry Placement, please contact the Pathways Hub.

Kristy Clarke | Program Leader - Skills & Training  

Careers Hub

Term 3 has been a whirlwind of activity and achievement. From investigating and finalising senior subjects for our Year 10 students and working through university applications and job applications for our existing students to engaging in exciting excursions and hands-on learning experiences, our students have embraced every opportunity. It’s been encouraging to see the growth, resilience, and commitment as they plan for their next phase – either senior schooling or life beyond school, while balancing day-to-day learning. 

As we head into the break, we celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of the term and look forward to an equally energising Term 4 filled with new challenges and successes. 

JCU Early Offers 

A very big congratulations to all of our Year 12 students who have so far received an early offer from James Cook University to study with them in 2026;  

• Brady Campbell – Bachelor of Education (Primary) 
• Ashley Hudson – Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 
• James Brice - Bachelor of Exercise Science – Bachelor of Exercise Physiology 
• Cody Chanthagoon - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) 
• Brooklin Robinson - Bachelor of Exercise Science – Bachelor of Exercise Physiology 
• Logyn-John Webster - Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honours) 
• Ashton Deer - Bachelor of Exercise Science – Bachelor of Exercise Physiology 
• Joshua Symons – Bachelor of Education (Secondary) 
• Felix Keir – Bachelor of Occupational Therapy (Honour)  
• Robbie Girvan - Bachelor of Information Technology 
• Jack Montgomery - Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws 
• Azhagan Slingsby - Bachelor of Commerce 
• Blake Pearce - Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

Boeing Success  

Congratulations to the following students who have secured apprenticeships as aircraft Maintenance Engineers with Boeing Australia commencing in February 2026:

• Isaac Whelan
• Kallen Wallace-Carr 
• Kalan Melvin  

Townsville City Council (TCC) Apprenticeship & Traineeship Opportunities  

TCC are now recruiting for 2026. A variety of apprenticeships and traineeships are currently advertised so don't miss your opportunity to apply. Some of the opportunities include; 

• Apprentice Fitter and Turner 

• Apprentice Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanic 

• Apprentice Parks and Gardens 

• Apprentice Boilermaker 

• Apprentice Diesel Fitter  

Visit their website today and apply HERE. 

Energy Queensland Pre-Apprenticeship Program 2026 

• Kickstart your career in Queensland's energy industry 
• Complete a Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) 
• Build the skills and confidence you need to seek an apprenticeship in a range of electrical trade areas 

Ergon Energy Network and Energex have partnered with TAFE Queensland to give eligible current Year 11 and 12 students the opportunity to complete a Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) (UEE22020) cadetship in 2026 and power-up their career in Queensland's transformative energy industry. 
 
Ergon Energy Network and Energex have depots throughout regional and remote Queensland and are part of the Energy Queensland group of electricity distribution, retail and energy services businesses owned by the state of Queensland.  

Applications close:  9:00am, Monday 22 September 2025. For more information and to apply, search HERE 

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 to the flyer below.  

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

Podiatry Traineeship Opportunity 

The Podiatrist Trainee Program (Queensland Health) provides an opportunity for eligible students to study Podiatry while working as a Podiatrist trainee in a Queensland Health facility. To find out more about this great opportunity, refer HERE.  

Lavarack Barracks Experience  

Students in Year 10 and 11 who are keen to explore a future in the Defence Force are invited to join the upcoming Lavarack Barracks Experience in Week 1 of Term 4. There are limited spots with now only 14 places remaining. Please email me by Wednesday 24 September to secure your spot.   

Engineering Link Project – Townsville – Friday 26 September 

The ELP is an award-winning program that inspires and empowers Year 10, 11 and 12 students to see engineering as a force for positive change. With a strong focus on the humanitarian and human-centred side of the profession, this event invites students to tackle real-world challenges affecting communities today. Through two hands-on workshops, they will collaborate with professional engineers and university staff to design solutions that improve lives, strengthen communities, and create a more sustainable future. For more information and to register – please refer HERE 

JCU – New Study Opportunity  

Students can now launch their careers in maritime engineering at JCU Cairns. The Maritime Engineering major is available as part of JCU’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and is available to study in years 1 and 2, before transferring to the Australian Maritime College at the University of Tasmania to complete the Bachelor of Maritime Engineering (Specialisation) (Honours). 

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. 

No matter what your circumstances, students of all abilities and backgrounds may be eligible to apply. 

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.      

JCU Webinar 

The Year 12 Webinar aims to assist with the transition from school to university. Refer HERE for more information and to register your interest.   

STP Consultants – Engineering/Drafting Cadetship 

STP Consultants is inviting Year 12 students to explore exciting career opportunities through their Early Careers Program. This program allows students to jump straight from the classroom into a real career in engineering or drafting, gaining hands-on experience while continuing their studies. 

Program Highlights: 

• Earn while you learn: Work full-time (four days practical + one study day) and gain paid experience. 
• Mentorship and support: Learn from experienced engineers and drafters, with guidance and study support throughout your journey. 
• Career pathways: Join as a Junior Draftsperson (associate degree or TAFE) or Cadet Engineer (Bachelor of Engineering). 
• Real projects: Apply your skills on projects that shape Queensland’s future.

Application Details: 

• Applications close: 30 September 2025 
• Send resume and cover letter to: careers@stpconsultants.com.au 

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  

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.

School Bus Service News

StudentRide, our School Bus Service, is currently exploring the possibility of introducing additional bus routes to better support families in the IPC community. To help assess interest and plan accordingly, they are asking all families to answer two short questions here: https://forms.gle/RvQ55x2foK1rMq8t8

Class of 1975: 50-year Reunion

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