Good afternoon Parents and Carers,

The saying goes; “time flies when you are having fun”, and this is certainly true for me here at the College.  I recently attended a seminar with Mrs Catherine Jackson, where leaders were asked to reflect on three aspects of their schools:

• What is it that needs to be protected?
• What is it that you need to acknowledge?
• What is it that you need to celebrate?

As a new Principal but more importantly a new member of our community, my focus has been quite simply around our identity as a College community and ensuring we celebrate all the wonderful things we stand for.  As parents and carers I hope you are starting to get a sense of this.

I am pleased to announce that the College is revisiting the Capital Works Masterplan, as this was developed pre-Covid, and with rising development costs proposed construction, was put on hold in 2021.  As part of revisiting this process we will look at the current needs of the College.  This will most certainly include a refurbishment of the remaining sections of Shaw Block and our Tuition Admin building.

It is important to note that any future provisions will also take into account the College’s direction in the Vocational Education Training (VET) environment with Electrotechnology, Animal Studies and Hospitality areas the College will be looking to venture into in 2024.

At our College Board meeting last Tuesday, the Board passed a motion to continue the fee structure adopted for 2023.  

FEES 2024**      ANNUAL        MONTHLY (x10)

Year 7 & 8          $3,670          $367.70

Year 9 & 10        $3,818          $381.80

Year 11*             $2,031          $203.10       

Year 12               $3,961          $396.10

**Please note - Annual fees for 2024 will be ratified in November/December 2023.  There is usually a 2% to 5% increase yearly, depending on government funding levels.
* School Bag Provided

For families in Year 11 2024, please note that your child will be allocated a College school bag at the end of Year 10, 2023. For families of Yr 10 students 2023 that already have purchased a College school bag, you will receive an additional $35 reduction in fees.

As reported earlier this year for all other year levels 7-10  the College and our supplier, Midfords, have been working closely to put a mechanism in place to support families with transition to a compulsory College school bag.  College school bags are going to be on sale at a subsidised rate (50%) leading up to the start of 2024 school year.  This will bring the retail price down to $35.  Further to this, the College will also offer a $20 Midford voucher to families who have already purchased a College school bag in 2023.  Yr 12 2024 won't be required to have the College school bag.

This week our Social Media platforms shared the experiences of Sophia Brown Yr 10, Isabella Tilt and Sadie-May Wilson Yr 9 as part of the Women in STEM Initiative at the Australian Maritime College.  We also congratulate Yr 10 student Jasmine Walker who recently became Australian U’18 Champion in tenpin bowling.  Jasmine will now aim to be selected for the national squad and has set her sights on the Asian Schools Championships in Singapore.

I have been a little disappointed with the way some students have been presenting at school.  While we understand that sometimes circumstances are unavoidable and students present in sports uniform, or we have days students are permitted to wear sports uniform, some students choose to wear items that are not St Brendan-Shaw College uniform, for example hoodies under polo tops, black shorts, grey track pants.

I request parent support in only sending your child to school in St Brendan-Shaw College uniform.  Students who arrive in non St Brendan-Shaw College items will remain out of class.  While the College will always try and provide a solution, this will not always be possible.  

I have been really clear with students around my expectations, and most importantly being consistent with expectations.  On a positive note, the vast majority of students are wearing their uniform with pride which is pleasing to see.

A reminder that parents are encouraged to provide feedback on Sports uniforms as reported in last week's newsletter.  Please click here.

Yours sincerely,

Rehearsals are well underway for the College production of Pippin. Students have been working hard on dancing and singing, and things are looking positive. We have some wonderful, talented students in the lead roles and supporting players with some great vocal talent. The choreography as well is led by some very well-tuned dance students. The sets are being created by a fantastic artistic team and constructed by Bevan Scramm and his crew.

Pippin tells the story of a young man, fresh from his studies at University, determined to live a fulfilling life and do the extraordinary. As he moves through his life, he realises that the promise of an exciting life isn't all it is cracked up to be. With some fabulous choreography and singing, Pippin will be a show you will never forget.

DATES

Thu 17 Aug, 7:30pm
Fri 18 Aug, 7:30pm
Sat 19 Aug, 1:00pm
Sat 19 Aug, 7:30pm

TICKETS

Tickets are available from the paranaple centre. Make sure you get your tickets early!

https://www.paranapleartscentre.com.au/events/pippin

Adults -  $30 
Concession -  $22
Student  - $20

Jasmine Walker (Year 10) has secured her position as the top Under 18 Tenpin bowler in Australia. With a focused dedication to her sport, Walker's exceptional performances have earned her this remarkable achievement at just 16 years old.

Jasmine’s journey to the pinnacle of Australian tenpin bowling has been defined by countless hours of training and competition. Undeterred by the challenges, she has set her sights on the upcoming Asian Schools Championship in Singapore, aiming to leave a lasting impression on the international stage.

For Jasmine, being a part of the Australian team is a significant goal. As a member of the national training squad, comprising the top 20 athletes under the age of 18 in the country, she continues to refine her skills and strive for excellence.

Recognising her exceptional talent and dedication, Jasmine has been nominated for the Female Athlete of the Year in The Advocate/Woolworths' Junior Sport awards. This recognition further solidifies her status as a prominent figure in the world of Tenpin Bowling.

Jasmine’s journey began at an early age, as her parents owned the Devonport bowling alley for nearly two decades. Growing up surrounded by the sport, she drew inspiration from seasoned bowlers and aspired to replicate their awe-inspiring techniques. With her father as her coach, tenpin bowling truly became a family affair.

To achieve her current level of skill, Walker has meticulously honed her technique. She bowls in leagues three times a week, focusing on fundamental training twice a week. Her efforts are directed towards enhancing her strength, coordination, speed and accuracy. Understanding the significance of spare shots in challenging competitions, she dedicates time to perfecting this aspect of her game.

Walker's immediate goal is to secure a spot in the Australian team for the Asian Schools Championship. With the upcoming nationals in Hobart this July, where she will compete in both the women's and junior teams, she hopes to showcase her abilities and boost her chances of selection.

We congratulate Jasmine on her recent success and wish her all the best with her Asian Schools Championships goal!

Recently Sophia Brown, Isabella Tilt, and Sadie-May Wilson embarked on Girls in Power, a three-day journey filled with hands-on activities, inspiring encounters, and opportunities to make valuable connections in the dynamic world of renewable energy. 

Girls in Power aims to ignite a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) among young women, offering them a glimpse into the vast career possibilities within the clean energy sector. By showcasing the accomplishments of remarkable women who have triumphed over obstacles and achieved great success, this event strives to inspire participants and foster a sense of connection among like-minded girls across northern Tasmania.

The itinerary for the event was designed to provide the girls with a well-rounded experience that touched upon various aspects of the renewable energy industry. Let's take a closer look at their exciting journey.

Tuesday 30 May, the girls started their adventure with an introduction to renewable energy, delving into the fundamentals of this growing field. They also had the opportunity to tour the renowned Poatina Hydro Electric Power Station, witnessing firsthand the impressive infrastructure that powers communities. Additionally, they learned the art of flying drones, gaining practical knowledge about this innovative technology. The day concluded with an overnight stay in Poatina, further immersing the girls in the renewable energy environment.

Continuing their exploration on Wednesday, the girls embarked on a visit to the Cattle Hill Wind Farm, where they explored the science behind wind energy. Witnessing the towering turbines and understanding the mechanics behind harnessing wind power provided a captivating experience. The journey continued to the Waddamana Historic Power Station, offering a glimpse into Tasmania's hydroelectric history. The girls discovered how power is distributed, gaining insight into the intricate process that brings electricity to our homes. Throughout the day, they had the privilege of meeting inspirational women making significant contributions to the industry.

The last day of Girls in Power was filled with enriching activities. The girls participated in a Speed Careering event, interacting with female professionals who shared their experiences and offered valuable guidance. Learning about energy generation using wave power showcased the innovative technologies that will shape the future of renewable energy. The day concluded with an exploration of the future of electric vehicles, shedding light on the exciting advancements in this rapidly evolving field.

Girls in Power provided an exceptional opportunity for young women to gain insights, build connections, and explore their potential within the renewable energy industry. 

We congratulate Sophia Brown, Isabella Tilt, and Sadie-May Wilson for representing St Brendan-Shaw College at Girls in Power and commend them for their enthusiasm and commitment to exploring STEM fields. We are confident that this experience has sparked their curiosity and will inspire them to achieve great things in the future.

Next term, Vinnies has come up with a 'pawtastic' winter appeal. We want to remind ourselves that while we snuggle in front of our heaters enjoying cups of hot cocoa, there are people in our community who struggle in winter and are in need. Together as a school community, we have the ability to lend a helping hand so that winter can be enjoyable for everyone. – Vinnies 

As we are now in full swing of winter, as a reminder, we suggest anyone who is feeling unwell with any cold/flu symptoms remain at home and return to school when symptom-free. 

Winter Wellness Fact Sheet For Parents

Read the latest issue. Mersey Leven Catholic Parish Bulletin – 11 June 2023 The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Year A)

Parents and guardians are invited to attend Not Even Once, a drug prevention workshop for parents with Tanya Cavanagh. 

Where: St Brendan-Shaw College, 127 James St, Devonport TAS, 7310 
When: Tuesday 4 July from 7:00pm - 8:30pm 
RSVP: To the College by phone on 6424 7622 or by emailing deputies@sbsc.tas.edu.au

#NotEvenOnce® aims to assist parents, teachers, and community members to get up to date with the latest information. The Seminar for Parents, Teachers, and Community members is designed to educate on the effects of Alcohol and other Drugs on the brain and body and signs to look for with your young people and loved ones. The session will equip you with tools to have conversations and help build resilience in your families.

St Brendan-Shaw College students in Years 7-10 will attend workshops with Tanya during the day. 

Please visit the Not Even Once website for more information.

All parents, friends, and community members are welcome to attend. Please note that this is a parent-only event.

The Devonport Access and Inclusion Working Group invite the community to hear Alex Noble speak.

Where: paranaple Convention Centre
When: Thursday 15 June 2023 at 10.30am
Cost: $25
Tickets: Available via Eventbrite

Alex Noble is an extraordinary individual who embodies resilience, reinvention, and a positive outlook on life. Alex experienced a life-changing injury while playing rugby in 2018, which left him permanently quadriplegic. Despite the challenges, he has demonstrated remarkable achievements.

Despite predictions of losing all movement from the neck down, Alex defied the odds. He regained significant strength and movement in his arms and legs, even developing the ability to partly stand up. His journey has showcased incredible self-esteem, self-worth, and self-love.

Alex's inspiring story and his pursuit of an adventurous life as an extreme athlete have captured the nation's attention. Through his experiences, he encourages individuals to challenge the limitations they perceive and realize that the only restrictions in life are the ones we create in our minds.

Strengthening Young People Against Anxiety

When: Tuesday 27 June 2023, 7:00pm

Where: paranaple Convention Centre
Tickets: $25.00 and available through Eventbrite

Karen Young, a distinguished expert in child psychology and emotional wellbeing, will provide valuable insights and practical strategies to empower young people (and older people) to combat anxiety, equipping them with invaluable tools to navigate the challenges they may face.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Discover an empowering approach to help children, teens, and adults manage anxiety effectively.
• Gain insights into the various manifestations of anxiety and learn how to address them.
• Understand the link between anxiety and learning and how to activate the learning brain.
• Explore the connection between anxiety and performance and strategies to overcome it.
• Recognise why anxiety can sometimes appear as anger and learn appropriate responses.
• The power of guiding children towards courageous behaviour, even in the presence of anxiety.
• Develop techniques to respond to anxiety in the moment, fostering calm and courage.
• Build a toolkit of proven strategies for young people to alleviate anxiety.
• Cultivate a mindset that strengthens resilience and encourages brave behaviour.

Bringing Science (and loads of heart) to Parenting to make sense of feelings, behaviour, learning, and connection.

When: Wednesday 28 June 2023, 10.30am
Where: paranaple Convention Centre
Tickets: $25.00 and available via Eventbrite

Join us for a special session with Karen Young, a renowned expert in child psychology and emotional well-being. She will share invaluable insights and practical strategies to empower young people to overcome anxiety. Discover effective tools to navigate challenges and build resilience for a brighter future.

Childhood is a period of immense growth and development, typically filled with pure joy. However, there are also moments when emotions and behaviours can become overwhelming. Fortunately, significant advancements in neuroscience have shed light on why children act the way they do and what their developing brains require to flourish. This understanding helps make sense of seemingly nonsensical behaviours and provides valuable guidance on nurturing the foundations of learning, behavior, regulation, and social and emotional development in all children. This presentation combines neuroscience with heartfelt insights, offering valuable information for parents, caregivers, and educators who live or work with young children.

Congratulations to the Girls' Football team for their outstanding performance in Round 2 against Penguin yesterday afternoon with a convincing 80-18 win.

Right from the start, they set the tone by scoring early in the first quarter and maintaining their momentum until the final whistle. Despite Penguin's strong performances and pressure in the third quarter, the NWJFU girls remained strong throughout.

Not only did they excel on the field, but their post-match rendition of 'Saints' was loud and proud, adding to the atmosphere of the game. We can't wait to see what they bring to Round 3 as they face off against Devonport.

Let's continue to rally behind the team and show our support. Go Saints!