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Key Messages Week 5

 

This week - A Special Event at JPC:


This week was a special one for me at JPC. We held a very moving ceremony to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and to honour those who are still serving from within our JPC community as part of our Remembrance Day focus.

 

Defence families from our JPC and Holy Spirit school communities were invited and the most wonderful part of our ceremony was seeing these special families together – children honouring their parents’ gift to our beautiful, free country. I especially felt for our Defence students whose parents were not with us as they are on deployment. My husband is currently deployed overseas (this time for 2 years) and I know the impact on families who miss their Mum or Dad. We should be so very, very proud of those brave men and women who leave their own loved ones behind to protect others in war torn countries. As one little boy I know said of his deployed Dad to his mother, “It’s OK Mum, Dad is stopping the bullies over there.”

The community atmosphere was emphasised by the presence of our neighbours, the Holy Spirit Primary School students and their teachers, some of whom joined with JPC Defence students in the ceremony, and we also welcomed Father Praveen’s blessing.

 

It was an honour to be part of this beautiful occasion and a special thank you goes to our Defence Transition Mentor – Mrs Vicki Walsh – for her hard work and attention to detail in this event, and her ongoing support of our Defence families. Also thanks to our talented Art teacher, Mr Rick Dodd, and Defence students for a most magnificent banner depicting a war scene used in the ceremony.

Science News:


As always, exciting things are happening in the Science Department! Late last Term, 2 students attended a 3 day science program at ANU. Thomas reports below:

 

Year 10 scientists attend the ANU & ConocoPhillips 3 Day Science Experience

 

"On September 21 - 23, Nicholas Dale and I attended the ConocoPhillips Science Experience at the Australian National University. The Science Experience is a great opportunity to all students, especially those with an interest in science. The 3 day event consisted of a variety of exciting activities from many different fields of science and we joined a group of a Year 10 students from schools around the ACT.

 

On Day 1, we had an introduction session at Questacon, from there we moved to the Biology laboratories at ANU to do a Forensics Murder Mystery activity where we had to sift through evidence and determine the culprit in a murder case. Our final activity of Day 1 was Science Communications, where we practiced communicating science to the public in understandable ways.

 

On Day 2, our group walked to the other side of ANU campus where we toured the Nuclear Physics laboratory and Particle Accelerator, the Plasma Physics Labs and then the Positron laboratories. We then set out camera traps across the campus near the Fenner School; these traps are designed to take photos of any animals that walk under them. Later on Day 2 we went to the Geology laboratories where we looked at some Ph.D. projects on coral and water and then visited a Specialist Analysis laboratory. The rest of the day was spent at the Mount Stromlo Observatory. We toured the facility, watched a 3D movie about Space, and star gazed that evening using the telescopes at the Observatory.

 

On Day 3, RoboGals, ran a workshop in which we programmed Lego Mindstorms Robots to utilise sensors to navigate a course. After the robotics workshop we returned to our camera traps to review the data, but unfortunately our camera did not get any images. A laser light show was next on the agenda, where we learnt about lasers and how they work as well as getting to see some powerful lasers in operation. The final activity of the 3 days was to make Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream!

 

This is an experience the both Nick and I thoroughly recommend to any future Year 9’s and Year 10’s as it is really interesting, and we were able to experience science in action at university and in industry, as well as meet some other students who are interested in science."

 

by Thomas Mugridge, Year 10 Science

 

 

ASX Competition News:


Our ASX Competition Investors wrapped up their portfolios last week and (whilst we are not retiring at 20!), the experience and business acumen developed will be invaluable to ensuring a secure financial future for these students. We hope to expand next year and enter all the ASX competitions, which are held throughout 2017.

 

 

Approval for Assignment Extensions – the process:


Submitting assignments on time is sometimes difficult for all sorts of reasons and we understand that students may need to request an extension of due date. We ask that all students follow the same procedure in any subject by doing the following at least 2 days before the due date (where possible):

1. Complete a “Request for Approval for Assignment Extension” form, which can be found on Moodle in the Parent Information page, or ask your teacher for one.


2. Speak to your Parents or Carers about the reasons for the extension and ask them to sign the form.


3. Obtain signatures on the form from your Teacher, a Parent, and the Faculty Coordinator, who will give the final approval for the extension.


4. Submit a copy of the signed form WITH your assignment.

 

Extensions will obviously be given if students are absent due to illness or other unforseen circumstances. Extensions will not be given on or before the due date for a lack of organisation on the student’s part. This process is especially important in Year 11 & 12 courses where we are accountable to the expectations of the BSSS for assessment procedures, and late submissions incur a penalty.

 

The teacher will pass a copy of the form to the student’s House Coordinator to identify if your child is requesting extensions across multiple subjects and would benefit from some organisational intervention or support.


If you have any questions regarding this process, please contact your Coordinator.

 

 

School Uniform on excursions:


Students are always expected to wear full school uniform and this is especially important when on excursions as not only do we need to present ourselves in the community as representatives of JPC, but we need also to comply with WHS legislation on sun and footwear safety.

 

Therefore, this means that students who do not present themselves in the manner indicated on the excursion permission note, either full JPC Day Uniform or Sport Uniform (hats included for both), will be required to remain at school or be collected by parents and taken home if the excursion is out of school hours.

 

Please go to our website for clarification of the uniform requirements of our school.

 

Mrs Jennifer Tually
Ferre House, Science and Languages Coordinator

 

 

 

                        LEST WE FORGET

Remembrance Day

On Wednesday, JPC was joined by the students of Holy Spirit in a combined JPC/Holy Spirit Remembrance Day Ceremony.  The Ceremony was well attended by our Australian Defence Force parents and families.

 

Our students took part in the Ceremony along with Holy Spirit students, sharing the readings and laying wreaths. It was particularly touching when siblings from the both schools were able to share the experience together, along with their parents.  We also remembered our Defence parents who are currently deployed, by reading out their names, and their children lighting a candle for them.

 

We were very privileged to have Commander Ben MacDonald, who is the Commander Logistics of HMAS Canberra, travel from Sydney to be the guest speaker.  He was accompanied by one of his shipmates, Seaman French. Commander MacDonald is a veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan and has been in the Navy for 21 years, serving on many ships. In his speech, he reminded us that occasions like Remembrance Day and Anzac Day do not celebrate war. They were about celebrating and remembering the lives of soldiers, sailors, air men and women who have faced horrific experiences and have risen to show the best of humanity.

 

 

We watched a presentation on the disaster relief which HMAS Canberra provided to the people of Fiji earlier this year, when they suffered the terrible consequences of Cyclone Winston. It was interesting for our students to see that our Defence Forces are not always involved in wars and conflicts, but quite often provide humanitarian support and aid to those in need. Even more relevant to be able to share this poignant message with our schools during our Year of Mercy.

 

Students from both schools, then laid wreaths in honour of ADF Personnel who had lost their lives and also recognised those who had suffered PTSD and suicide. Major Rob Orr, a Holy Spirit parent, laid a wreath on behalf of the Gungahlin RSL sub branch. Lieutenant Colonel Morris, a father of both schools, read The Ode, then the students and adults stood quietly and reverently whilst we listened to the Last Post and observed one minute’s silence.

 

The Last Post and the Rouse was played by MUSN Joshua Young, from the RMC Band, Duntroon.  Again we were very honoured to listen to MUSN Young’s exquisite rendition of the emotional tune, reminding us of our respect and reflection for the day.

Some reflections from our students:

 

“The Remembrance Day Ceremony was about remembering those veterans and those who lost their lives in war.”  Christian Alyward

 

“I learnt more about the history of the HMAS Canberra and that this ship is the third to carry the Canberra name.”  Emily Cullinan

 

“The Remembrance Day Ceremony was insightful as I learnt more about the work and experience of our Defence Force and their humanitarian aid services that they provide across the world.  When the bugler played, I felt I could really connect to the Ceremony and what it was all about. I also thought the band was incredible.”  Celeste Gibbs

 

Lest we forget.

 

Mrs Vicki Walsh
DTM

Student Leadership News

Year 10 House Leaders Reflection Day

As we draw towards the end of the school year, our Year 10 students are preparing for their final assessments and exams and the excitement of the celebrations that mark the end of this phase of their schooling. In a similar way, our Year 10 House Leaders are coming to the end of a significant journey as our first elected representatives. In order to offer a seamless transition for our next group of leaders, the Year 10 House Leaders will be taking part in a reflection day on Monday, 21 November to review their year in this role, and to develop role descriptions for our next group of leaders.

 

Year 9 Leadership Discernment Afternoon

On Tuesday, 22 November, a Leadership Discernment Afternoon will be held for any Year 9 students who are interested in nominating for positions as House Leaders in 2017. Attendance at this session is entirely optional, but is a compulsory prerequisite for nomination. The session will run from period 3 to the end of the day, and will offer students an opportunity to consider the gifts and talents they could bring to their Houses as the next group of leaders. At the conclusion of the day, students will be given a detailed nomination form to complete and discuss with parents and their House Coordinators. More details about this process will be given to participating students. The sign-up sheet for the Discernment Afternoon will be posted on the wall outside the Chapel on Monday for students to sign up, and I encourage our Year 9's to consider participating in this experience.

 

Mrs. Nicola Edghill
Coordinator

Performing Arts Excursion – ALADDIN – Sydney Capitol Theatre

It was an early start for the Performing Arts students from JPC on Wednesday, all 55 students from years 7-10 were on the bus ready for a 7.15am departure to Sydney’s Capitol Theatre, to watch the Disney classic Aladdin. Of course, we began the journey by re-capping the story of Aladdin by watching the animated film, which created many impromptu sing along moments. The excitement was building, for many this was the first time going to the theatre or being exposed to a musical performance.  

The journey to Sydney was smooth and before we knew it we arrived at Hyde Park Central Sydney. The sun was shining; we set up for an early lunch and picnicked in the park. The vibe and atmosphere whilst having a shared lunch together was really lovely. It was fantastic to see students integrating, demonstrating kindness and welcoming new friendships. After lunch, we began our walk from Hyde Park to the Capitol Theatre weaving in and out of the busy Sydney population, we arrived with plenty of time.

 

After a quick raid of the fabulous merchandise of Aladdin, and some sweet treats, we were shown to our seats and were ready and very excited for the performance. It was absolutely fantastic, both staff and students were blown away by the whole production. The live orchestra was absolutely fantastic, for some time many students thought that the sound was a recording, then once our musicians realised that the orchestra was in the pit of the theatre, they soon took the opportunity in the intermission to go and check it out and have a sneak peek of the musicians preparing for the next act.

The whole production was extraordinary, the set, costuming and flow of the performance was an absolute delight fest for the eye. The singing, dance and acting was on point, a tribute to the Broadway production team from New York. The technology integrated into the show, was mesmerising and set this production apart from many other stage shows.  It was fair to say that our students were overwhelmed by the experience, enjoying every movement of the performance. 

 

‘I was blown away, I just wanted to be up there on stage being a part of it’

Codie Haycraft

 

‘The set, lighting and changes were incredible’

Brianna Pilicic

 

‘It was my first time at Capitol Theatre, it was an amazing experience’

Damon Van Putten

 

‘The dancing and the costuming was mesmerising’

Gerladine Lim

 

‘I loved the characterisation, the characters were so funny, the whole show was fantastic, I loved every minute.’

Jessica Cousins

I think it was fair to say that every student had the most amazing experience. I hope that this has inspired our students and sparked passion for the Performing Arts. After a long journey home, the question that most students posed was ‘when are we going again? What will we see next?’ I am already looking into it.

 

Faye Robertson

White Ribbon Update

As an initiative from the White Ribbon Leaders, JPC started to investigate more closely the facts linked to White Ribbon. Students created discussion topics and were asked to think about ways that they can better react than in anger. You may like to watch the YouTube Clip which started the conversation: “Slap Her: Children’s Reactions” available from:  https://www.youtube.com/watchv=b2OcKQ_mbiQ 

 

This week’s Respect Awards have been presented to the following recipients:


Drexel: John Trajkoski                  
Ferre: Jasmine Chong                  
Kennedy: Griffin Apps    
Maathai: Paloma Alves
Vanier: Ella Baric
Van Thuan: Thomas Withers

 

These students have been positive role models for their peers through their actions such as caring for other students, being respectful in class and on the playground and also modelling positive respectful behaviours to all students and teachers.

 

Well done to these students who are more than worthy recipients of these awards.

Recycling Uniforms

A reminder to all parents that we have a Second Hand Uniform Shop here at the College. What better week than during National Recycling Week to clean out the wardrobes and bring in any surplus or out grown uniforms to be recycled. 

 

We welcome any donations to the shop, winter, summer or sports uniforms! 

St. Vincent De Paul Christmas Hamper Appeal

A reminder about the St Vincent De Paul Christmas Hamper Appeal that Ferre House are coordinating. 

Students are asked to place their nominated items in the "Giving Basket" in their pastoral groups, so that we can then deliver our goodies to the Parish for inclusion in hampers. The hampers are much appreciated by those in need in our Gungahlin community. Parish families will also be encouraged to take a hamper at the Giving Mass at Holy Spirit Church on the weekend of the 17th/18th of December and deliver it locally. Thank you in advance for your continual support of our school, parish and wider community.

Mrs Elizabeth Walsh

ACT Athletics Championships

Last Thursday we had a number of students competing in the ACT Athletics Championships. The students were fantastic representatives of the school, and achieved very impressive results on the day. 

 

Zac Bush – 8th 16yr Discus


Mikayla Cruz – 3rd 15yr 400m Sprint, 4th 15yr Long Jump, 6th 15yr 100m Sprint, 2nd 15yr 200m Sprint


Nicole Magazini – 4th 13yr 100m Sprint, 11th 13yr Long Jump


Shad Nyamukuvhengu – 2nd 16yr High Jump


Kobe O’Neall – 1st 16yr Long Jump, 2nd 16yr 100m Sprint


Troy Putland – 7th 15yr Javelin


Oliver Vidaic – 7th 3000m Run


Zamir Bulbul – 1st 16yr Javelin (New ACT Record 48.18m)

 

Congratulations to all the students who competed.

 

Nic Whatman

Sports Facilitator

1021 Gungahlin Drive Nicholls ACT  |  Ph: (02) 6163 4800
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