St Agnes

Catholic High School

Week 3 newsletter term 4

Dear Parents, Students, Staff, and Friends,

Welcome to Term 4. The HSC written examinations commenced on Wednesday 11th October and will end on Friday 3rd November. The feedback from the NESA Team, who supervise the students, indicates that our students have responded to the exams. They have been well-prepared, on time and focused. We couldn’t ask for more. Well done to our Year 12, 2023 students and to their families who are working hard behind the scenes to support these young men and women. We look forward to celebrating with the students on 14th December 2023 when they, and the school, receive the results of their efforts.

In the coming weeks, our teachers and students will finalise the assessments that will be reflected in our Semester 2 reports and will contribute to the determination of the end of year awards. Once again, I encourage students to give their personal best for the rest of the year. Our St Agnes Way of Being pillars of integrity and compassion articulate that we all aspire to grow and support one another.

We need to pray for the conflict in the Middle East, which has flared up since the 7th October where thousands of Palestinian and Israelis people have been killed in the conflict in the Israeli Gaza region. I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to visit the Holy Land in January. During this time I began to gain an insight into the plight of the Palistianians and the complexity of this region. We can only hope and pray for peace.

World Teachers’ Day

Friday 27th October is World Teachers’ Day in Australia, a day when we acknowledge and celebrate the exceptional work of our teachers. It is important that we take some time to thank them for all that they do for our students and the school community. I am always inspired and impressed by the generosity and care shown for our students by the staff at St Agnes. For instance, in recent weeks our teachers and staff have given countless hours to supporting our current Year 12 students as they undertook their final preparations for the HSC. This is simply one example of how our teachers support our students. I know that there are many more ways that our teachers go above and beyond by assisting students in all areas of school life including academic, sporting, social, or extracurricular activities.

Over time, small moments can have a big impact on the lives of students, which is why we are celebrating World Teachers’ Day 2023 by acknowledging some of the amazing teachers who help make those moments happen.

EAL/D Coordinators

Towards the end of last term, we added two new leadership positions in our school with the appointment of two EAL/D Coordinators. Ms Dunne and Ms Liu have taken on these important positions. It is wonderful to appoint these leadership roles from within the talent of our existing staff. EAL/D is an acronym that stands for English as an Additional Language/Dialect. We have been collecting data on our students over the past two years and it has given us a clear picture of the many cultures and languages within our school. These EAL/D Coordinators will work with individual students and with teachers, to support students from non-English speaking backgrounds to develop their literacy and English language skills.

Marama Youth Summit

Murama Indigenous Youth Summit is a resilience-based cultural intervention program that is based on the strengths of Aboriginal culture and aims to heal our communities. The program focuses on belonging, kinship, and traditional values as stepping stones in a rite of passage to reweave the cultural connectedness between individuals, families, and the community.

Murama brings together Indigenous youth to celebrate their cultural journey, connect them with Elders and each other, and empower them to lead their schools and communities toward deeper cultural understanding and appreciation.

I would like to congratulate our Year 11 students: Jewel, Eli, Bailey, and Jace who were leaders at the Murama Youth Summit during Week 10 Term 3. They engaged with 2000 primary students to run the various workshops at the Youth Eco Summit and their respect, resilience, and behaviour were exemplary. Also, I would like to thank Ms Clark for attending the summit and assisting the Jarara Team and students during the three days. Her contributions and assistance were greatly appreciated.

Year 12 2023 Retreat

Last week we had our Year 12 Retreat at Collaroy where we were surrounded by beautiful natural bushland and enjoyed outstanding ocean views. Students enjoyed the experience of immersing themselves in their faith. They had an opportunity to reflect upon their life's journey so far and gain insight into recognising the presence of God in all things. Another important experience of their last retreat was connecting as a Year group and enjoying some fun activities together. Students were encouraged to move out of their comfort zone and connect with peers outside of their friendship groups. I was impressed by their engagement, maturity, and conduct over the three days. I would like to thank the staff members who not only gave up time with their families in order to facilitate this Retreat, but also were very generous in sharing their personal stories with the students; Mr Madigan, Mr Sadsad, Mr Azzopardi, Mr Scarpin, Mrs Tomich, Mrs Walters, Ms D’Aprile, Mr Mangion, Mrs Karafotias, and Mrs Vincent.

In particular, I would like to thank Mr Sadsad, Mr Madigan, Mr Scarpin, Mr Azzopardi, and Mrs Tomich for the contribution they all made to ensure that the Retreat ran smoothly. Thank you to all the presenters over the three days and, especially to Mr Sadsad and Mr Madigan whose meticulous planning made the Retreat a success.

Building report

Our current building project is continuing to gather momentum. We have the roofing now completed with the external painting well under way. We have also now commenced fitting out the internal classrooms.

Fantastic to see such wonderful progress being made and we look forward to the final completion, expected around mid Term 1, 2024

Thank you to everyone involved in this project as we continue to provide a wonderful environment for continued learning and education

Mrs J Holland

Principal

CLICK HERE to access our Parent Calendar. Click subscribe at the bottom to connect the school calendar to yours and stay up to date with school events

To Truth Through Love

The HSC students have begun their examinations with enthusiasm and they have kept their end goal in mind. These will continue into Week 4 of this term. The largest exams in English and Mathematics have all been undertaken. The feedback from our supervisors is that the students have responded positively to the exams, being well prepared, efficient in being on time, and focused. We as a school are very happy to hear this news. Well done to our Year 12, the students and also, their families who are working hard to support these young people. We look forward to celebrating success with the students on 14th December when the results are published to students this year.

Students in Years 8 and 9 have received their letters listing their elective choices for 2024. Again, this year we have used our Timetable Software to develop lines that allow us to maximise the satisfaction rating (the number of students receiving their higher preferences for elective choices). Parents/carers are asked to review the letter for their child’s electives when it arrives in the mail. On each letter, there is a space to sign and return the slip acknowledging the subjects for 2024. As we now build our timetable, there are no changes to elective choices made at this stage. However, should students have any questions or if there is clarification needed, the students are encouraged to see Mr Kemmis. Regarding any official change, we have a small window for this to occur during Weeks 2 and 3 of Term 1 next year.

Study Skills Tip for October -

TOP TIPS FOR STUDYING FOR TESTS

Studying effectively for tests and exams is a SKILL that can be developed and make a significant difference in your academic success.

Here's a checklist to help students identify and improve their study habits:

Make Notes Regularly: Instead of cramming all your studying into the last-minute rush, make it a habit to make study notes regularly. This will help you understand the material better as you go along, making studying for tests less overwhelming.

Plan Ahead: Do not wait until the last moment to finish your study notes. Start early, ideally weeks before the exam, so you have ample time to review and understand the material thoroughly. Avoid last-minute stress by planning ahead.

Create Organised Study Notes: Create structured and easily digestible study notes. Use headings, bullet points, and diagrams to make your notes visually appealing and comprehensible. This will make it easier to review and memorise key information.

Use Active Learning: Do not just passively read your notes. Test yourself on the material to gauge your understanding. Use flashcards, quizzes, or teaching the topic to someone else. Active learning reinforces your memory and comprehension.

Use Diverse Study Techniques: Do not rely on a single study technique. Experiment with various methods like mind maps, mnemonic devices, or group study sessions. Explore what works best for you and adapt your study routine accordingly.

Simulate Exam Conditions: To prepare for the pressure of exam day, practice under realistic conditions. Set a timer at home when doing questions, avoid looking at your notes, and simulate the exam environment as closely as possible. This helps build your confidence and adapt to time constraints.

Use Varied Sources: Do not limit your study materials to just one source. Diversify your resources by using textbooks, online materials, practice exams, and teacher-provided resources. This broadens your understanding and exposes you to different perspectives.

By incorporating these study habits into your routine, you can significantly enhance your preparation for tests and exams. Remember that consistency and early planning are key to success in high school and beyond.

You and your parents can learn more about study and examination techniques at www.studyskillshandbook.com.au by logging in with the details below and working through some of the units.

Our school’s subscription details are -

Username: stagnes

Password: 24success

Mr G Kemmis

Assistant Principal - Learning Transformation

Empathy Can Be Taught and it Can Lead to

More Creative Thinking

The links below is from a company called “Generation Next” who specialise in wellbeing for young people in Australia. This article focuses on how showing empathy and teaching how to improve this in individuals actually can also improve creativity.

https://www.generationnext.com.au/2023/08/empathy-can-be-taught-at-school-and-it-can-lead-to-more-creative-thinking/

The Link Between going online and managing Emotions

This article looks at how technology and social media are replacing methods such as listening to music as a way to manage emotions. While this can be a positive option, the article also explores how the unpredictability of social media can sometimes make this option one which actually causes more harm than good.

https://www.generationnext.com.au/2023/08/why-am-i-online-research-shows-its-often-about-managing-emotions/

Uniform Update

Just a reminder for all parents and carers, we have transitioned to the Summer Uniform for all students. Please be aware that in colder weather, the blazer is the primary garment that must be worn. While the blazer is not mandatory, students are not allowed to wear the jumper without it. As always, feel free to reach out to your child's Learning Mentor or Leader of Learning Pathways if you need any assistance with the uniform.

Road Safety Update

We extend our gratitude to the many students and families who consistently adhere to the road rules, especially in front of the school during morning and afternoon hours. The crossing is a crucial safety measure, and we kindly request that all parents, staff, and students utilize it. Our location presents challenges related to traffic, congestion, and visibility, which can occasionally render Evans Road unsafe. Please join us in supporting our school and ensuring the safety of our community by adhering to all road and parking regulations

Mr G Hilder

Assistant Principal - School Culture

Pace e bene

Peace and blessings to all members of the St Agnes community.

Year 9 Reflection Day

On Friday, 15th September, Year 9 students gathered at Winbourne, Mulgoa for their reflection day. The day was run by the YMT (Youth Mission Team). The Reflection Day was designed to give students an opportunity to reflect individually and collectively on their lives. As part of the reflection day sessions, students will consider the

following: Personal values and priorities, relationships with family, friends, and God, their future hopes and goals.

Students also had time in small groups in which to share experiences and reflections as well as time as a collective year group to continue strengthening their relationships with each other.

Thank you to Mr Sadsad, Mr Cruickshank, Mr Neilson, Mrs Ramasamy, Mrs Moylan, Miss Liu, Mrs Holland, Ms Penna, Mr Sarac, Mr Ghorra, Ms Woods, Mrs Shyam, Miss Phillips, Miss Panesar, Ms Dahdah, for giving of your time and assisting with leading groups on the day.

Feast of St Luke the Evangelist - 18 October 2023.

October 18 marks the Feast of Saint Luke, the Evangelist.

Saint Luke is one of the Four Evangelists, the four traditionally ascribed authors of the canonical gospels. The Early Church Fathers ascribed to him the authorship of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. It is believed that Luke was born a Greek and a Gentile. Luke’s gospel shows special sensitivity to evangelizing gentiles. According to the early Church historian, Eusebius, Luke was born at Antioch in Syria. Luke's unique perspective on Jesus can be seen in the six miracles and eighteen parables not found in the other gospels. Luke's is the gospel of the poor and of social justice. Forgiveness and God's mercy to sinners is also of first importance to Luke. Only in Luke do we hear the story of the Prodigal Son welcomed back by the overjoyed father. Only in Luke do we hear the story of the forgiven woman disrupting the feast by washing Jesus' feet with her tears. Throughout Luke's gospel, Jesus takes the side of the sinner who wants to return to God's mercy. Reading Luke's gospel gives a good idea of his character as one who loved the poor, who wanted the door to God's kingdom opened to all, who respected women, and who saw hope in God's mercy for everyone.

On Wednesday 18th October - Friday 20th October, Year 12 had their retreat at the Collaroy Centre, Collaroy. The retreat allowed students the opportunity to reconnect with themself, others, God and family relationships. Students explored many themes throughout the retreat relating to the above, but also explored where they are at, as students are about to begin their HSC journey. Students also spent some reflective and community time down at the beach on Thursday afternoon.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following staff members who generously gave their time away from their families and loved ones, in order to provide a meaningful retreat experience. Mr Sadsad, Mr Scarpin, Mr Azzopardi, Mrs Tomich, Ms Vincent, Mrs Walters, Mr Mangion, Mrs Karafotias, Miss D’Aprile, Mrs Holland and Mr Hilder. I wish to also acknowledge the ongoing support of the school executive in being able to provide such a retreat for the Year 12 students. I would also like to acknowledge Mrs Susie Edmonds for assisting with the retreat. Please see the student testimonies below;

Sienna Edwards

"I believe I speak on behalf of the entire year group when I say that this retreat was an amazing experience that taught us more about each other and ourselves. It not only strengthened our friendships but also encouraged deep reflection on our hopes and goals for our final year of school. This experience is etched in my memory forever. I truly appreciated how we all came together to support and reflect on our past and future. When we wrote positive affirmations for each other, I felt a profound sense of gratitude, realizing how much I value my peers for their unwavering support and encouragement.

One of the most significant takeaways from this retreat is the stronger connections I've developed with my year group. The diverse groups we were assigned to for various activities provided me with the opportunity to get to know my peers better, especially those I don't interact with frequently. Engaging in activities like trivia and creating our life roadmaps allowed me to learn more about my classmates and their experiences, further strengthening our bonds. This retreat also offered students the chance to build better relationships with our teachers. Whether on the soccer pitch or during the sessions throughout the day, we got to know our teachers better, enhancing the overall experience.

I want to express my gratitude to the teachers who dedicated their time away from their families to accompany us on this retreat. A special 'thank you' goes to Mr. Madigan and Mr. Sadsad, who invested months of preparation and hard work to make this retreat possible. This was an incredibly enjoyable and unforgettable experience."

Amire Gorgise

"The Year 12 retreat was a memorable experience, offering a variety of opportunities to explore ourselves, connect with each other and our teachers, and strengthen our relationships. The activities allowed us to step away from any current stress or negative thoughts, creating a positive environment and fostering optimistic thoughts about the future. Through positive affirmations, personal life stories from teachers, and valuable life lessons, the retreat facilitated our transition from adolescents to young adults with greater ease.

The retreat emphasized a few key aspects:

• Personal Reflection: The retreat provided students with the opportunity to reflect on their high school journey, personal growth, and future goals. It was a time to take stock of our experiences and achievements.
  
• Stress Relief: The retreat environment was typically calm and peaceful, offering a respite from academic and university pressures. It served as a welcome opportunity for students to relax and recharge.
  
• Free Time: Perhaps the most memorable aspect of the retreat was the free time. The entire grade, including the teachers, had the chance to engage in activities on the grounds, such as soccer and basketball.
  

I would like to express my gratitude to Mr. Madgian and Mr. Sadsad for their efforts in preparing this retreat, which marked our last overnight stay in our school careers. I also extend my thanks to the teachers and LAs who joined us and sacrificed personal time to participate in this retreat. This experience is one that will be forever remembered and cherished."

Beminet Habte

"The Year 12 retreat was truly eye-opening and an experience to remember. Each session offered profound insights that will stay with us throughout our lives. I am grateful for the opportunity to connect with peers I wouldn't typically engage with at school, thanks to the smaller group sessions randomly selected by teachers. The bonds we formed over those three days were anchored in trust and openness. This experience made me realize that we're all on this journey of life together, facing its challenges side by side.

From waking up early to watch the morning sunrises to burying friends in the beach sand, every moment spent at the retreat was a canvas painted with laughter, unforgettable memories, and a profound sense of harmony that I will forever cherish. I want to extend my heartfelt appreciation to our dedicated teachers, whose unwavering support and efforts made these three days and two nights truly remarkable.

As we embark on our final year of school, I carry these memories and lessons with me, and I am excited to see how they will shape our journey ahead."

FIAT Update

Each year the Australian Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ACBC) issues a major Social Justice Statement. The 2023-2024 statement has taken the title Listen, Learn, Love: A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. On Wednesday, 18th October, St. Agnes was invited to attend the Social Justice Statement Launch for students of the Diocese of Parramatta, represented by a group of Year 9 students. The launch provided our students with an opportunity to come together in prayer and in dialogue with Bishop Vincent Long and students from across the Diocese. Our Year 9 students eloquently represented St. Agnes in leading the acknowledgement of the country and opening and closing prayers. On the day students engaged in various activities, from yarning circles to hearing guest speakers from organisations that can speak to the experiences of injustice and provide support to First Nations Peoples. Students were also asked to consider how their school community can engage with the statement, developing ideas, exploring action points to give the Social Justice document life at St. Agnes.

Empowering Journey Through Journalism:

Bronte Norris's Inspiring Experience

In the dynamic world of journalism, every experience is a stepping stone towards personal and professional growth. Year 11 student Bronte Norris, a shining star in the making, recently embarked on an enriching journey that embodies the essence of dedication, learning, and meaningful storytelling.

Bronte began with a week-long internship that provided her with a sneak peek into the inner workings of the field. This invaluable experience allowed her to explore the intricate tapestry of journalism, learning the ropes of this dynamic profession.

As part of her educational journey, Bronte delved deep into the world of writing and journalism through specialised courses. These courses armed her with the essential skills and knowledge required to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of journalism.

One of the most significant aspects of Bronte's journey was her ability to connect with fellow students from across Australia. This network of budding journalists fostered a sense of camaraderie and shared passion, offering a platform for mutual learning and growth.

Bronte's journalistic endeavors reached a pinnacle when she had the opportunity to interview Emily Ng, a remarkable individual whose experiences and insights enriched Bronte's perspective.

Another noteworthy highlight of Bronte's journey was the invaluable advice she received from a seasoned journalist associated with The Australian Catholic Magazine. This mentorship provided her with valuable insights and guidance, shaping her approach to storytelling and journalism.

Throughout her program, Bronte channeled her newfound knowledge and passion into the creation of two extensive journal articles. Her first article, 'Many Faiths, one Humanity,' brilliantly explores the value of diversity in our society, highlighting how various faiths provide us with opportunities to expand our understanding of the world.

Bronte's collaborative spirit also shone brightly as she and another student joined forces to craft 'Small Changes Count in a Big World.' This article, born from interviews and in-depth questioning, showcases the transformative impact of individuals dedicated to making a difference and inspiring others to do the same.

Bronte Norris's journey is a testament to the incredible growth that can be achieved through dedication, learning, and the power of storytelling. Her experiences inspire us all to embrace the boundless possibilities that journalism offers and to continue seeking the stories that unite, educate, and inspire our communities. We look forward to witnessing Bronte's continued success in the world of journalism, as she continues to shine a light on the stories that matter most.

Mr P. Madigan

Head of Mission

Year 10 Experimental Photography

The Year 10 PDM has been studying how images can be created through experimental means. The class used food colouring, lighting, homemade lens and found everyday materials to create:

• Pin hole cameras
  
• Abstract bubble images - using dish soap and a straw
  
• Liquid drippings - ink and food colouring
  
• Oil and Water - using dish soap and cooking oil
  
• Creative Lens - coloured lens made from plastic containers and Posca markers.
  

Check out the great results from the class here.

Year 12 Investigating Science

Our Year 12 (2024) Investigating Scientists are embarking on a very exciting project this term as a significant component of their Depth Study assessment. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to collaborate with Quantal Bioscience, a working laboratory located in Castle Hill.

The aim our students are working on is to improve our understanding of where to find bioelectrogens in our environment.

Bioelectrogens are amazing bacteria renowned for two things:

1. Their ability to generate electricity during their growth, and

2. Their ability to breakdown wastes and pollutants in the environment

Bioelectrogens are typically found in mud. Over the term three break students and teachers were on the hunt for samples of mud from different environments.

This week, students have been using their mud samples to construct Microbial Fuel Cells (MFC’s). The hope is that these MFC’s will contain bioelectrogens and within the next two weeks, start producing voltage. The latter phase of the project will involve students visiting the Quantal lab to sequence the DNA of the bacteria within their MFCs, determining if bioelectrogens are indeed present.

We are eagerly looking forward to sharing our discoveries with you in upcoming weeks.

EXAMS....EGGS ...EGGCELLENT!!

Year 8 Technology Food classes have been participating in practical exams during week 3. They have prepared a wide variety of healthy dishes, all of which incorporate eggs. These dishes range from Pot Sticker Dumplings and Gyozas to Carbonara pasta, Burgers with all the fixings, Eggs Benedict, pancakes with berries, Persian Omelettes, Breakfast Burritos, and Egg and Noodle Rice Paper Rolls.

All students have demonstrated success and creativity in preparing their dishes within a 70-minute time limit. The images below showcase the work of 8A and 8C Food Technology Mandatory.

Kickstart your HSC: Study and Prep Seminars at Macquarie and UTS

Macquarie University & UTS are hosting FREE HSC seminars

Date: Sunday 5th November & Sunday 12th November (9:30am-12:15pm)

Venue: Macquarie University (5/11) & UTS (12/11)

Participants: Students & parents in Year 10 & 11

Cost: Free

For the 18th year, Macquarie University & UTS, in partnership with InspirationED, will be hosting a set of free seminars later this term. These are designed to support both students and parents who are beginning (or about to begin) their HSC.

Run by highly experienced HSC markers and qualified counsellors, these sessions will cover:

• Practical tips to handle stress and maintain motivation
• Tried-and-true strategies to achieve your best in your tasks & exams
• A straightforward guide to understanding the ATAR and admission processes
• An English seminar on Paper One and how to write better essays
• For parents, we also have practical tips on how to support your child through the HSC.

Why you'll love these sessions:

• Real Insights: Direct, actionable advice. In these 45-min sessions, we’ll share the best study strategies, exam techniques, and ways to stay on track during your HSC year/s.
• Advice from the Experts: Our seminars feature expert HSC Markers and qualified counsellors ready to share their tips and years of experience.

Spaces are strictly limited for this half-day event. Secure your spot here.

https://inspired.edu.au

Compass is our primary parent communication tool for day-to-day operational matters, upcoming events, notices, and notifications so it is essential that all parents download the app.

It is more important than ever that we are able to communicate effectively, especially when it involves the safety of our children. If you haven't already, we ask that parents download the Compass app onto their devices for either Apple or Android.

• Compass is a web-based system allowing you to access up-to-date and meaningful information about our school and your child’s progress. Compass includes many different features, including the ability to:
  
• Be informed of important updates, events, and reminders
  
• View your child’s timetable
  
• Review your child’s attendance
  
• Provide explanations for periods of absence
  
• Update your contact details
  
• Book Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences.
  

Compass is accessible on any modern web browser (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, Safari) or by using the Compass iOS or Android apps.

If you have not received notifications via email can you please email the school to check on our contact details for you.

website