Dear Members of the St Edmund’s Community,

It is an interesting journey you undertake when you walk from the Edmund Rice Building to our tuckshop - past the Year 12s sitting quietly, listening to music and chatting; down through the undercroft area where the noise approaches 747 take-off levels as friendly handball games progress; into the Doody Amphitheatre where Year 8 boys happily sit, eating their lunch; and finally to the tuckshop, all the while reminding young men to pull up socks, tuck in shirts and put rubbish in bins. You would no doubt undertake a similar journey in any other boys’ school.

Remarkably enough, I found an important point of difference in our tuckshop. Tuckshop staff work tirelessly every day to ensure the boys are well fed, and as parents would know this is no mean feat. However, standing behind the tuckshop hot-box the other day were two ladies engaged in wrapping chocolate slices for the hungry masses. I was privileged to speak to these two Eddies’ grandmothers. These wonderful ladies continue to give their time to the school and in my conversation, I heard the pride and joy in their voices as they spoke of their grandsons. It is so heartening to see these ladies continuing to be part of our school life. The enduring relationships are those that bind us, they are the strength of our community and are firmly founded in Ipswich culture. Our young men can only benefit from this rich heritage and I hope we see these traditions continue well into the future. They are what makes us “Eddies”.

Year 11 Conference and Parent Information Night

On Monday, Year 11 students took the day to attend forums and workshops in preparation for their final two years of schooling. In speaking to some of the young men who attended, it was a positive experience for them and well received. It is also heartening to see the information night well attended. The language of the new Queensland Certificate of Education can be complex. The evening was an excellent opportunity for parents to gain an insight into what lies ahead for Year 11.

Year 12 Information Night

Last night Mrs James and Mrs Henness presented information for Year 12 parents and many parents and students took the time to attend. The beginning of Year 12 is timely to clarify the expectations and requirements of this new system. I thank Mrs James and Mrs Henness for organising both information evenings.

Year 7 Camp

Yesterday we welcomed back our Year 7 campers, one day early. Wet and weary after a night of torrential rain, most were glad to be home. The College took the precaution of calling the boys back early given the uncertainty surrounding weather conditions. Thanks to Mr Nic Aldridge, Year 7 camp coordinator, the Pastoral Deans, as well as Ms Rimland, Ms Erich and Mr Sutton for ensuring the safe return of our young men.

Academic Awards Assemblies

Over the next few weeks we will celebrate the academic achievements of our students. On Friday 21 February we celebrate the successes of the Class of 2019 as well as current students in Years 10 to 12. The following week we will celebrate and award the Years 8 and 9 students. I invite parents to come and celebrate with us as we acknowledge the hard work of our students.

Ray Celegato, Principal

From our Director of Mission Ms Adrianna Rimland

Mark 12:31: ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than this.

In the coming year it is our goal to expose all our students to truly unique educational experiences which allow them to reflect on how individually, and as a College community, we can be more inclusive.

As a Catholic college in the Edmund Rice tradition our identity and mission are shaped by the story of Edmund Rice who was inspired by the Gospel of Jesus, the liberator. Edmund opened his whole heart to the presence of Christ which he found in the marginalised. In partnering with local organisations, students and staff have the opportunity to be responsive to the need of our local community, just as Edmund did. Various experiences will sit within year level activities and others will ask the students to step up, sign on, and ‘Show Some Ticka’ challenging them to get involved beyond the classroom.

The Year 8 Outreach program will run alongside the Religious Education curriculum. Students will partake in activities including games, craft and conversation with the residents of the Brassall Aged Care Facility in this immersive experience. These activities help create a common ground for students, teachers and residents as well as their families to engage in conversation, share stories and build reciprocal and genuine connections.

Next weekend in collaboration with St Mary’s College and DanDaLions and friends, we are hosting an inclusive cricket game. DanDaLions is an organisation that supports young people with a ‘diffability’. The DanDaLions Cricket Day is a fun occasion which promotes inclusive community, sees our students in action: encouraging, laughing and smiling with children with different abilities. Students of all year levels have been handing in their forms, showing a keen interest.

As men of character, action and word, our Years 11 and 12 students have the opportunity to volunteer with ‘Rosies Friends on the Street’. As volunteers, students participate in the servery but most importantly engage in conversations with the patrons.

These are just some of the opportunities available and I encourage all students to look out for opportunities to be a ‘brother to another’.

Ms Adrianna Rimland, Director of Mission

A Prayer of Love

Dear God,
Remind us to remain alert and stand firm in our faith.
Guide us to be courageous, strong and supportive.
May we as friends, be understanding and respectful of all peoples so that they become our brothers and sisters.
May we put ourselves at the service of others, allowing others to refresh and inspire us.
Let all we do, be done in love.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Key Term 1 Highlights: Mark your diaries!

Combined Colleges’ Parish Mass - Sunday 16 February - 6.00pm - St Mary’s Church
All are invited and welcome to join us at Mass. A pizza supper will follow.

DanDaLions Inclusive Cricket - Sunday 23 February - 8.00am to 12 noon
We are holding a social and inclusive cricket match for students from St Edmund’s and St Mary’s, along with young people connected with the DanDaLions organisation. DanDaLions supports young people with ‘diffabilities’. This will be an immersive service experience and students are encouraged to get involved. Training for this day will be on Thursday 20 February, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

Year 12 Retreat - Between 24- 26 February at the James Byrne Centre Toowoomba
This year our Year 12 students will be divided into two groups for their Retreat.
- Group 1: Ambrose/Finn/Ignatius/Treacy - will depart the College at 2.00pm on Monday 24 February and return on Tuesday 25 February by 2.45pm.
- Group 2: Callan/Elliott/Morgan/Rice - will depart the College at 2.00pm on Tuesday 25 February and return Wednesday 26 February by 2.45pm.

Marysia Rice, Assistant Principal Identity

On Friday 21 February we will celebrate our first Academic Assembly for the year, where we will congratulate our Overall Position (OP) 1 to 5 winners and acknowledge the achievements of Integrated Pathway (IP)and Employment Pathway (EP) students from Year 12, 2019. We also have the chance to acknowledge the achievements of our 2020 students in Years 10, 11 and 12. Our top performers from the class of 2019 have natural academic talent; however, I am sure that their natural talent in combination with their determination and work ethic is what brought them their success.

Most classes will be receiving their first piece of assessment for the year this week or next. I encourage all students to get started early with their work by doing the following:

1. Set realistic goals of what you want to achieve.
2. Complete all homework and schoolwork to the best possible standards.
3. Use a calendar and write down drafting and final due dates.
4. Set specific checkpoints of when you want to start as well as different progress points.
5. Use all support networks available to you, that is, Learning Hub, the Library, tutorials, study groups, etc.
6. Parents and caregivers, please be involved in your boy’s work, check their progress, help them set the goals mentioned above.

These are all simple ways to stay committed to the tasks at hand. However, remember that “success is the sum of a lot of small things done correctly”.

God bless.

Luis Marin, Director of Middle School

SENIOR SCHOOL

Year 11 Conference and Parent Evening - 10 February

On Monday, the Year 11 students attended their Conference, “Future You, Plan the Dream”. Workshops included a presentation from Elevate Education – “Study Sensei” and Mr Montgomery’s and Mr Aiken’s “Goals, Plans and Futures” and “21st Century Skills” . The students engaged positively throughout the day, beginning their Senior School journey. Thank you to the many parents who attended the parent information evening that followed. Thank you for the manner in which you engaged and for your participation in the Q & A that concluded the evening. Parents and their sons who are commencing Work Placement met with Mr Raddie on the evening and I thank Apprenticeships Queensland for attending to brief the students on the protocols of entering a workplace.

Year 12 Parent Evening - 13 February

Thank you to the Year 12 parents who braved the weather and attended the information evening for Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) students and those students attending Work Placement for the first time. All materials will be made available to parents via email as we understand that many could not attend in person. Mrs Natalie Henness and I are happy to answer any questions parents have, so please just email us and we will attend to your questions. (secmail@sec.qld.edu.au)

Learning Hub

The Learning Hub is open once more and students are welcome to attend from 3.00pm to 5.00pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with tutors in attendance to assist with any difficulties students may experience. Afternoon tea is provided.

A Final Note

Next week I am going to visit students to hear of how they are settling into the new academic year and to hear about their goals for 2020. I look forward to speaking with Year 7 students in particular and hearing about their hopes and dreams as they begin their St Edmund’s journey.

We thank God for the beautiful rain and pray that it does not cause destruction or loss of life.

Best wishes.

Carmel James, Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching

This week is Queensland School Library Week with the theme School Libraries Build 20/20 Vision.

Library Lovers Day was held today, Friday 14 February. To celebrate all things library, we had a number of activities including Blind Date with a Book, Valentine’s Tower competition and Lovers of Literature.

Mrs Karen Callaghan, Head of Department: Information Services and Learning Resources

Cost $65.00

2020 Year 12 Jersey - Payment due today Friday 21 February

St Edmund’s College Senior Jersey orders and payments are required now.

The design is posted on the notice board outside the Deans’ Room, on the College App and Facebook page.
Cost of the 2020 Senior Jersey is $65. Payments can be made at College Reception via EFTPOS; Qkr!; cash/cheque in a sealed envelope clearly marked with the student’s name and “Senior Jersey”; or via a phone credit card transaction (Reception 3810 4400).
Students must sign to verify that their information is correct. Please direct all enquiries to Mr Mills during school hours on 3810 4400 or email: dmills@sec.qld.edu.au

Year 10 students undertook a careers test on Tuesday run by Business Improvement Australia. This test will provide data to use as a basis for an interview during Weeks 5 and 6 of this term, followed the generation of a careers report for each individual student which will be emailed to each student and parents.

This should provide some direction for the future, especially in relation to appropriate subject choices for our students.

Defence News

Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Education Award

The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Education Award is presented annually to Year 12 students in recognition of leadership potential, and academic and sporting achievements exhibited during Year 11. The award comprises a tablet device (or similar) and certificate for you, along with a plaque of recognition for your school. There are up to 50 awards available on behalf of the Navy, Army and Air Force, which will be presented to suitable applicants who have applied for entry to ADFA. Current Year 12s have until 28 February 2020 to submit their applications and current Year 11 students can start their application on 1 May 2020. Visit the ADFA Education Award on the ADFA website for more information, including:

• Key Dates
• Award Eligibility
• Assessment
• Obligation of the Recipient
• Presentation

Career Exploration

Career Quest– a quiz for career explorers

Career Checker is a New Zealand career site that has valuable information and is worth a visit. You can do the CareerQuest quiz and find out what jobs might match with your interests and values. The information about each job's earnings, qualifications and popularity is based on New Zealand statistics but the quiz will provide you with some insights into job possibilities that you can research. You will have to set up your free sign up to access the site. Once you have completed the quiz, the Career Checker provides you with your results and offers tips for further exploration or next steps regarding knowing yourself, getting career ideas and taking action.

Myfuture website

For those who don’t know, myfuture is Australian’s career information service. It’s free and you sign-up when you first visit the site and then enter a username and password for access. You then log-in for subsequent visits.

The site contains information on courses, occupations, industries and institutions. The My Career Profile function on the site is a career questionnaire you use to develop your career profile which is then matched with jobs you may be interested in. The Career Bullseyes provide lists of jobs that relate to the subjects/study areas you enjoy. The site has over 60 case studies of real people in a range of jobs.

Careers Spotlight

Have you heard about: Biotechonlogists, Book and Script Editiors or Business Machine Mechanics

Biotechnologists study the anatomy, physiology and characteristics of living organisms and isolated biological molecules and develop new materials for applying to a range of purposes. They can specialise in Cell Geneticist, Molecular Biologist, Molecular Geneticist. A bachelor's degree in science majoring in biotechnology, biomedical science or a related field is needed to work as a Biotechnologist. Many Biotechnologists complete postgraduate studies.

Book or Script Editors evaluate manuscripts of books or scripts to determine suitability for publication or production and edit and supervise material in preparation for publication or for production on film, television, radio or stage. They can specialise as a Script Coordinator. Usually needing a formal qualification in a relevant field and Book or Script Editors often have university qualifications.

Business Machine Mechanics install, maintain and repair electronic business equipment such as multi-function devices, photocopiers, scanners, fax machines and cash registers and can specialise as a Photocopier Technician. Either extensive experience or a Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical trade is needed to work as a Business Machine Mechanic.

Tertiary News

University Open Days in Queensland in 2020

It is highly recommended to attend an open day event at the university (or universities) you wish to apply to for studies next year. The open day gives you an opportunity to talk to lecturers and current students about the courses you are interested in. You can also check out the campus, the support services offered and social and cultural activities available. Open days usually occur between July and early September each year. Visit the QTAC website for further information regarding each universities 2020 open day, location and hours.

Mr Mark Currie, Careers Guidance Officer/Adviser

It is amazing to think we are already three weeks into the school year - time is certainly passing very quickly! Once again I would like to thank all the instrumental tutors for giving up their time in Week 1 to speak with all Year 7 students. Instrumental lessons commence next week. Timetables will be posted outside Room K205 and on EDE.

Speaking of lessons, all Year 7 students wishing to participate in the Instrumental Music program should have returned their Instrument Preference form. Please see Mr Kirkwood in Room K205 if you have not returned the information but would like to participate in the program.

Performing Arts Captain

Lachlan Wesener was introduced to the College community as Performing Arts Captain at last Friday’s Assembly. Lachlan has been heavily involved in the Performing Arts program since arriving at Eddies as a Year 7 student. He is an inspirational leader and mentor for the younger students in the department. Congratulations Lachlan.

Performing Arts Night - Wednesday 4 March - 6.00pm

Our first 2020 musical event in Term 1 will be the Performing Arts Night. This will be held on Wednesday, 4 March at 6.00pm. A number of our co-curricular ensembles are rehearsing intently in preparation for this performance. This will be a great way to kick off the year for the Performing Arts Department.

Mr Tim Kirkwood, Director of Music

Last Friday’s meet began with a proposed 40-minute bus trip that turned into two and a half hours due to extensive roadworks at Centenary. Writing it off, we headed back to Eddies where the swimmers were keen for practice laps on home soil.

As this goes to press, Eddies will be co-hosting an invitational meet at the Centenary Pool. This will prove to be a perfect opportunity for the swim squad to add a bit of polish, post some competitive times and gain valuable racing experience.

Although preparation time has been limited in the lead-up to the AIC Championships (Monday 2 March), we look to the 2020 season with excitement, anticipation and with all the ingredients for strong results.

AIC Training

To help us in our preparation, a quick reminder that AIC training is Monday morning – whole squad (with pancakes for breakfast); Wednesday morning - Seniors only; and Thursday morning – Juniors (12 to 14 years). Of course, there are training sessions outside of these times if students wish to come and improve their fitness levels.

I look forward to a large turnout of students for Friday night’s meet.

Mrs Natalie Henness, SEC Swimming Coordinator

FRIDAY 14 FEBRUARY - YEARS 8 to 12

BUS INFORMATION

Bus for Years 8-12 Australian Rules players leaves the College at 2:30pm and returns at approximately 7:30pm

SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY - YEAR 7

BUS INFORMATION

Bus for Year 7 Australian Rules players leaves the College at 8:30am and returns at 11:45am

Please be advised that the Volleyball Court boundary lines are in close proximity to the surrounding wall.

BUS INFORMATION

Bus for 10C, 10B, 10A, 11A, Thirds, Seconds and Firsts departs SEC at 8:00am and returns at 2:30pm approximately.

Please note: Players are asked to arrive at least 30 minutes before the game starts.

Mon 17 Feb: R Osborne

Tue 18 Feb: S Eaton, L McLean

Wed 19 Feb: B MacDonald, S Leonard, J Pearl

Thu 20 Feb: H Rahn, K Newman

Fri 21 Feb: C Cuskelly, S Verrenkamp, T Diamond

A reminder to Year 12 Students - The Uniform Shop has a service available for blazer pockets to be sewn on to your blazer.

If you are interested, please arrange to have your blazer handed into the Uniform Shop by Thursday 20 February. The cost is $20 - cash only.

DON’T BE CAUGHT OUT IN THE RAIN

Grab a rain jacket or an SEC umbrella -

Rain Jackets - $30 – limited sizes available
SEC Umbrellas - $35

UNIFORM SHOP PRICE LIST

There has been a small increase in price for various Uniform Shop items. Please check the new price list and Uniform Shop updates on the College Website.

P: 3810 4489
E: uniformshop@sec.qld.edu.au
Visit the SEC Website- www.sec.qld.edu.au

Term 1 School Fees were emailed to all families on Tuesday 11 February.

Reminder - Due date for payment: Wednesday 26 February

If you did not receive your fees statement or have a query regarding your statement, please contact the Finance Office: finance@sec.qld.edu.au

EDDIES DANCE - Friday 6 March 2020 - St Edmund’s College Hall - 7.00pm to 10.00pm - $10 entry - Doors open 6.45pm - Closed door until 9.45pm - No Passes Out - Year 7 to Year 12 students from invited schools only - School ID required - More information to follow.

In recent months our weekly newsletter has kept our parish community and schools up to date with the building works currently occurring at St Mary’s Presbytery in Woodend. Following a few questions and concerns from parents this morning, Friday 14 February, Fr Stephen Bliss met with Mike Quinn (Principal, St Mary’s Primary School), Gavin Minz (Deputy Principal, St Mary’s Primary School), the building site manager, a representative from the Archdiocese of Brisbane, and the certified asbestos remover - Materials Group Pty Ltd (HMG). It was an opportunity to review the procedures and protocols already in place at the site. The good news is that all procedures are being undertaken in accordance with Queensland State Government Legislation.

We would like to reassure everyone that the building work has been approved by the Queensland State Government and the Archdiocese of Brisbane (including Catholic Education) and is compliant with the Queensland Code. The Ipswich City Council has also been notified of the building works and their approval was given. All documentation has been completed, is compliant and has been filed with the relevant authorities.

Please be assured that no children, parents or staff have been in any danger during these site works.

It is worth noting that two procedures are taking place simultaneously: (1) asbestos removal, and (2) demolition works. These works are being done concurrently and in a safe and compliant way.

The concerns expressed so far are welcomed as it reminds us to check our accountability. If you would like to stay up to date with news from the the Ipswich Catholic Community, please subscribe to our email update: https://ipswich.flocknote.com/...