By Mr Stuart Ralph, Principal

Good afternoon parents and guardians and welcome to Week 3 of Term 3.

This week we celebrate Catholic Education Week, and several things have been happening in our community, including 30 of our Year 7 students attending the Catholic Education Week Mass at Marist Regional College, where all Catholic Schools within our region came together to celebrate.  Tuesday evening, I had the privilege of attending the Catholic Education Awards Ceremony, where Mrs Nona Roberts and Mrs Mary Hansen were recognised for 25 years of service to Catholic Education.  At this ceremony, St Brendan-Shaw College was also presented with our certificate of Validation, recognition of meeting our obligations with regard to the Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools and complying with the registration process of non-government schools.

Saint Mary MacKillop

Tuesday was also the feast day of Saint Mary MacKillop.  Each year on the 8th of August, we celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia's beloved first saint. On this day, we celebrate the important role she played in making education accessible for children in our country. 

Mary MacKillop devoted her life to ensuring a holistic Catholic education for children from rural, poor families.

St Mary MacKillop's impact on Australian education was remarkable.  She was a trailblazer and a leader who passionately advocated for the education of underprivileged children and children in remote areas where others either would or could not go.  For such children and their families, Mary opened a door of hope into the future.

Teaching and Learning

This week we have had a number of students involved in ICAS Assessments in the areas of English, Mathematics, Science, Writing and Digital Technologies.  ICAS is the internationally recognised gold standard academic assessment competition.  It is pleasing that our gifted and talented students get the opportunity to represent their College and extend themselves through this process.  I would like to recognise the wonderful work Mrs Bridget Leary does within our College, working closely with our gifted and talented students.

Recently I published academic comparison data for our senior students.  The data that was provided for other alternate options was 2021 data.  It has been brought to my attention that the 2022 data is now available for all schools and Colleges through the TASC (Office of Tasmanian Assessment, Standard and Certification) Senior Secondary Attainment Profiles.

Attainment data on all Colleges can be viewed by clicking on the following link https://www.tasc.tas.gov.au/ab...

St Brendan-Shaw is extremely proud of the data we consistently achieve each year in relation to TASC and ATAR.  2022 data tells us that students who remain and study at St Brendan-Shaw College for Yr 12 are better positioned.  We know that 88% of our students gain a TCE compared to 76% at alternate options.  We also know that 59% of our students achieve an ATAR compared to 42% at other alternate options.

I have no doubt that our academic success through quality teaching and learning is supported by the pastoral and support practices that the College has in place. 

As reported last week, the College is now in the process of timetabling and staffing our student offerings for 2024.  Enrolment numbers are strong, and I am extremely pleased with the growth of our Vocational Educational Training program (VET), venturing into many new areas in 2024.

The College has publicly advertised Senior Scholarships available to current students and also students looking to join St Brendan-Shaw College for Yrs 10-12.  Please be sure to share this information with friends and colleagues as we look to offer the opportunity for students to join our College community.

Co-Curricular and Sport 

This week both our Senior Soccer and Netball teams competed in the second round of the NSATIS roster against Marist Regional College.  While both our netball teams were defeated last evening, our senior Soccer team got the better of our Coastal colleagues defeating Marist Regional College 5-1.  I would like to congratulate all students who represent our College with pride.  Next month we will see sporting representation continue with both the NSATIS -5th September and SATIS -13 September Swimming Carnivals. 

Pippin

Today our Pippin cast has bumped into the Town Hall Theatre, paranaple Arts Centre, after months and many hours of rehearsal.  Kicking off next Thursday, our talented students will entertain our local community, highlighting the exceptional talent that is nurtured within our College community.

I encourage all members of the community to come along and support our shows running from next Thursday - Saturday evening. I know you won't be disappointed!

This week Jet Spicer, Srishtri Namoa and Lace Kelly were interviewed at SeaFM live on Weekdays with Jess promoting next week's Production.  

To book tickets, please go to the following link and be sure to share with family and friends. https://sbsc.me/Pippin23

Yours sincerely,

Scholarship opportunities are now available for senior students in 2024. Applications close on Friday 25 August 2023.

As part of the Scholarship program, students will receive part remission (50%) of tuition fees.

If you are currently in Years 9-11, this presents an excellent opportunity for you to apply for scholarships in various study areas.

The available scholarship categories include Academic scholarships for Mathematics, French, and Japanese (Years 11-12), Academic General scholarships (Years 10-12), as well as Vocational Education and Training (Years 10-12).

These scholarships are open to both current students of the College and those considering joining us. To find detailed information about the application process, we invite you to visit our College website at https://www.sbsc.tas.edu.au/scholarships

Whatever troubles may be before you, accept them bravely, remembering Whom you are trying to follow. Do not be afraid. Love one another, bear with one another, and let charity guide you all your life. God will reward you as only He can. – Saint Mary MacKillop

Each year on the 8th of August, we celebrate the Solemnity of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. 

St Mary MacKillop, together with Father Tenison Woods, founded an Australian Religious Congregation, the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. This group of religious women committed themselves to the education of the poor, especially in isolated areas of Australia.

The Sisters of St Joseph worked tirelessly to provide an education that was accessible to people in often difficult circumstances. Above all, they were concerned with equipping people with skills and knowledge so they could take their place in society with confidence and dignity. Her vision for Australian youth resulted in a flourishing education system that gave hope and realised aspirations in the midst of a tough, depressed, materialistic environment.

By Ms Kim Walters, Deputy Principal – Pastoral Care

School attendance is important. We understand that absence may be necessary due to illness, and we support students' participation in school activities. If a student will be absent for an extended period due to representative sport, such as at state level, approval should be sought by contacting the Principal. In the event of illness, bereavement or state or national representation, teachers will do their best to make the necessary adjustments for students.

You can help your child get the most from their education by minimising absences to give your child the most opportunities to learn.  This includes making medical and other appointments outside of school hours and arranging family holidays in scheduled term breaks.  An increasing number of families are taking the decision to withdraw their child during term time for the purpose of recreational leave. Parents should discuss these decisions with the Principal.  These absences are required to be recorded as notified unauthorised absences.   They are not supported by availability of work in advance or remote teacher assistance. Students will have access to what is published on SEQTA only in the event of recreational leave.

We know that attendance matters, and parents may have seen an increased focus on this in television and online advertising. Research from the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership says that: 

"Non-attendance has a variety of effects on students, both academically and socially. Absenteeism can increase social isolation, including alienation and lack of engagement with the school community and peers, leading to emotional and behavioural difficulties (Carroll, 2013; Gottfried, 2014). It is also associated with an increased likelihood of drop-out (Keppens & Spruyt, 2017; London, Sanchez, Castrechini, & Castrechini, 2016).”

By Ms Cheryl Gamble, English TaLL

Year 7 and 8 students have the opportunity to compete in the Prime Minister's Spelling Bee.  Students who have nominated themselves to compete need to return their permission forms by Monday, 14 August.

The first round of the competition [School Round]  will be completed during school time next week [14-18 August].

By Mrs Natalie Healy, VET Coordinator

Today, our Year 10 girls attended the Fearless Festival Expo at the Devonport Recreation Centre. The girls were able to see and experience a vast range of trades presented by females in various roles. These included building, joinery, electrical, mechanical, painting, plumbing, fitting, welding, as well as services such as Police, Fire, Ambulance, and Defence. Notably, the Navy showcased their 3D virtual reality submarine program. Other sectors represented were Parks and Wildlife, Horticulture, Nursing, Law, Real Estate, TasNetWorks, TasWater, Chocolatiers, Aviation, and more.

By Ms Kim Walters, Deputy Principal – Pastoral Care

In the vibrant mosaic of our school community, every student brings a unique piece to the collective picture.

Some of these stories might not always be evident at first glance. Tourette Syndrome Awareness week was last month, but we’ve since found this great resource so that community members understand more about it.

Below, you'll find some insights to help us all move forward with a clearer understanding, greater awareness, and with kindness.

Attention trivia enthusiasts! 

Join us for an exciting night out with friends and test your knowledge, all while supporting a noble cause. Warrawee Women's Shelter provides a vital service to our community, and what better way to contribute than by indulging in some friendly competition? 

The trivia night fundraiser will be held on 8 September. Secure your spot now and book a table for up to 10 people at just $50. 

Don't miss out on an evening of fun and charity!

Congratulations to Willow Farr and Brydee McPherson, who have been selected to represent Tasmania in the Under 14 Girls Basketball team at the Australian National Championships in September.

Wishing Fletcher Cruden all the best as he competes in the Australia Cup with the Devonport Strikers.

Congratulations to Jasmine Walker and Mrs Jackie Riley, for their recent success at the Tenpin Bowling Tasmania Sports Awards. Jasmine has been named the Female Junior Bowler of the Year and Mrs Riley is the Adult Female Bowler of the Year.

Parents and guardians of Year 7 students, please be aware that Year 7 Camp is scheduled for Monday 13 - Tuesday 14 November.

By Mr Ross Hubble, Teacher

The Outdoor Education and Outdoor Leadership combined for an MTB Derby Camp where we experienced the world-class trail network at our backdoor. The students’ pick of the tracks was the Derby Tunnel, which is a 600m tunnel cut through a mountain during the old tin-mining days. Another highlight was the Mt Paris Dam wall. While on the trip, Jasmine completed her Individual Outdoor Leadership Project (IOLP). She was responsible for leading the group along the 6km ‘Blue’ level, 'Return to Sender' trail. Her project work also included a prior proposal letter, risk assessment (GO PREPARE), and safety briefing. Jasmine demonstrated terrific leadership throughout the journey. 

From Vinnies

This week is the start of the Vinnies Winter Appeal – People Plus Paws!

We will be collecting donations of essential items for people (with a focus on mature females between the ages of 55 and 85, and their pets. 

Useful items can include sleeping bags, blankets, dried or canned food for pets, fingered gloves, beanies, and jumpers. 

Collection points at the College will be communicated in House meetings. For those in the community who want to support us in this work, please drop goods into Caritas Reception.

Learn while you earn – diverse training from our talented, award-winning people.

You’ll be trained in every aspect of building and construction – across ALL sectors.

You will thrive in our team-oriented, pro-training workplace. We’re not just about teaching you skills – we’ll focus on your health and wellbeing too.

If you are passionate about becoming a professional carpenter and aspire to be a Construction Industry Leader, then Mead Con want to hear from you.

Mead Con is a progressive construction company committed to continued growth within the Tasmanian commercial, residential and industrial building sectors.  We are dedicated to comprehensive apprentice training and provide a structured development path for the right individual. 

Are you:

• Motivated and reliable
• Hardworking & 100% committed
• In possession of a “can-do” attitude
• Able to understand & follow instructions
• A quick learner with excellent attention to detail

Can you:

• Communicate effectively at all levels
• Demonstrate initiative & tenacity
• Work alone or in a team environment
• Show good ratings in Maths & English

Ready to Build Your Career with Mead Con?  If you hit the mark with the above criteria and have a genuine interest in our industry, then please submit your resume and handwritten cover letter, to the following before Friday, 25th August 2023:  Debra Spillane, Mead Con
PO Box 703
QUOIBA, 7310
OR email jobs@meadcon.com.au 

Learn your trade from a nationally recognised leader while working on iconic, award-winning projects.

The industry is changing, it’s getting bigger and busier, and we need capable, hardworking, and passionate people to be part of our growth.

A construction industry apprenticeship allows you to earn while you learn, offers opportunities to progress and opens the door to a rewarding career.

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate:

• A genuine interest in their chosen trade and the motivation to succeed
• A good understanding of what your chosen career path involves
• The ability to work as part of an effective team
• Well-developed literacy and numeracy
• A strong work ethic - hard-working, reliable, fit and healthy

Work experience and/or a pre-vocational qualification would be an advantage.

North West Tasmania Apprenticeships:

• Carpentry x 4
• Cabinet Making x 2
• CNC Machinist x 1

These roles are based out of our Devonport Construction and Joinery divisions.

Send your application to:

12 Stony Rise Road
DEVONPORT TAS 7310

Treasury is currently recruiting for the Cadetship Program. This Program provides you with the opportunity to study part-time while gaining valuable work experience in a central government agency and establish your career.

Find out more about the Program and how to apply via this link https://www.treasury.tas.gov.au/about-us/careers/cadet-program

Students can subscribe to alerts for Cadetship vacancies on the Tasmanian Government Job Alerts page,  https://careers.pageuppeople.com/759/cw/en/subscribe.

If you would like to speak to someone about the Cadetship Program, don't hesitate to get in touch with Toni Heffernan, Principal Human Resources Officer, on 03 6145 5711 or email toni.heffernan@treasury.tas.gov.au.

Become the future of the Williams Adams Cat team as a Dual Trade Apprentice - Diesel Technician & Auto Electrician based in our Burnie branch.

Machine Electrification is the future. By taking on a Dual-Trade opportunity, you will invest in your future.

You will be supported with a five-year apprenticeship, receiving first-class training in the diagnosis, servicing, and maintenance of a massive range of Caterpillar equipment and components. You will become part of our Operations team, learning from some of the best in the industry.

You will work with state-of-the-art technology support services and be part of a global dealer network that is one of the world’s top 100 recognised brands.

You will receive:

• TWO nationally accredited training qualifications, paid for by William Adams Cat
• A subsidised toolkit worth over $6,000
• A Caterpillar passport enabling you to work for any Caterpillar dealer in the world
• A full uniform including personal protective equipment (PPE) 
• Above award wages and opportunities to earn more with reasonable overtime
• To top it off, you’ll earn a fully qualified trade wage after only 3 years

Where it can take you: 

• Our apprentice rotation program allows you the opportunity to travel and work in our branches within Victoria and Tasmania
• You could represent William Adams in the Caterpillar Dealer Top Apprentice Program and visit Caterpillar nationally and overseas
• Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you could follow any of these career paths:
  • Field Service Trades Person
  • Service Supervisor
  • Sales or Product Support Representative
  • Technical Trainer
  • Branch Manager

The opportunities are endless. It's up to you!

About You

You will have a positive, customer-focused attitude and a desire to learn, grow and be at the top of your game. You will demonstrate a genuine interest and passion for your chosen trade and how it contributes to the heavy machinery industry.

Your positive attitude towards safety, excellent listening and communication skills and your commitment to the structured training will not only see you succeed but thrive in our business.

As part of your application, you will be required to:

• Upload a cover letter, resume and your most recent school reports (if you are a secondary school student or you have completed secondary school in the last two years) *IMPORTANT* You must combine and upload all documents as one complete file.
• Answer two short video questions

** Please note we can only accept applicants that have a year 10 pass (or equivalent) or higher. We welcome mature-age applicants.

The most impressive and enthusiastic applicants will be given the opportunity to join our team. You will start in February 2024 and begin a 5-year journey to becoming the best in the business!

Don't settle for any apprenticeship. THINK BIGGER with a Dual Trade Apprenticeship with William Adams CAT. 

Want to know more? Call our Talent Acquisition Team on 03 9566 0700* 

Applications close on the 20th August 2023*

Become the future of the Williams Adams Cat team as a Apprentice Fabricator / Boilermaker based in our Burnie branch.

You will be signing up to a four-year apprenticeship, where you will receive first class training in heavy fabrication and welding work on a massive range of Cat equipment and components. You will become a part of our Operations team and learn from some of the best in the industry.

You will work with state-of-the-art technology support services and be part of a global dealer network that is one of the world’s top 100 recognised brands.

You will receive:

• A nationally accredited training qualification, paid for by William Adams Cat
• A subsidised toolkit worth over $6,000
• A Caterpillar passport enabling you to work for any Caterpillar dealer in the world
• A full uniform including personal protective equipment (PPE) 
• Above award wages and opportunities to earn more with reasonable overtime

Where it can take you: 

• Our apprentice rotation program allows you the opportunity to travel and work in our branches within Victoria and Tasmania
• You could represent William Adams in the Caterpillar Dealer Top Apprentice Program and visit Caterpillar nationally and overseas
• Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you could follow any of these career paths:

• Field Service Trades Person
• Service Supervisor
• Sales or Product Support Representative
• Technical Trainer
• Branch Manager

The opportunities are endless. It's up to you!

About You

You will have a positive, customer-focused attitude and a desire to learn, grow and be at the top of your game. You will be able to demonstrate your genuine interest and passion for your chosen trade and how it contributes to the heavy machinery industry.

Your positive attitude towards safety, excellent listening and communication skills and your commitment to the structured training will not only see you succeed but thrive in our business.

As part of your application, you will be required to:

• Upload a cover letter, resume and your most recent school reports (if you are a secondary school student, or you have completed secondary school in the last 2 years) *IMPORTANT* You must combine and upload all documents as one complete file.
• Answer two short video questions

** Please note we can only accept applicants that have a year 10 pass (or equivalent) or higher. We welcome mature-age applicants.

The most impressive and enthusiastic applicants will be given the opportunity to join our team. You will start in February 2024 and begin a 4-year journey to becoming the best in the business!

Don't settle for any apprenticeship. THINK BIG with an Apprenticeship with William Adams CAT. 

Want to know more? Call our Talent Acquisition Team on 03 9566 0700* Applications close on the 20th August 2023 *

For children and youth aged 5-15 years!

Come along and enjoy 2.5 hours of fun in the gym, with action-packed circuits and games, a sausage sizzle, and Icypoles! 

All proceeds to go to a young gymnast. Jade will be representing Tasmania at the Bigham Cup to be held in South Australia, at the end of August. It is so exciting to see our gymnasts succeed and gain opportunities to participate in representing their state.

You don't need to be a Devonport Gymnastics member to attend - open to all children aged 5-15 years. Bookings are essential and can be made online at https://www.thinksmartsoftware... or through the customer portal for members.

 👏👏🤸🤸

Please join us at the Gallery to officially open the ArtRage 2022 Selection exhibition on Saturday 12 August at 11am, with special guest Patrick Grieve, Teacher Hellyer College and Artist.

This is a free event but RSVP is appreciated to the Gallery by email to artgallery@devonport.tas.gov.au

ArtRage is QVMAG’s annual exhibition showcasing the work of Tasmanian secondary students. The selected works are produced by Year Eleven and Twelve students studying Art Production or Art Studio Practice as part of their Tasmanian Certificate of Education.

The students’ work explores themes that have inspired them throughout the year and are an invitation to reflect on how it feels to be a young person living in the world today. There is a vast array of subjects, media and artistic styles on display.

ArtRage is a celebration of the art makers of the future, and an acknowledgement of the schools and teaching community who have helped shape and guide them.

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery recognises the enormous support and cooperation that ArtRage receives from the college art teachers of Tasmania and acknowledge the work of these dedicated art educators along with the talented students attending schools and colleges across Tasmania.

2022 QVMAG Guest Curator: Patrick Sutczak

***

Exhibition Dates:

12 August 2023 – 16 September 2023
Main, Upper and Little Galleries
Web: https://www.paranapleartscentre.com.au/.../artrage2022se.../

This year, our football teams delivered an exceptional performance in the NWJFU season. Both our Boys Grade 7/8 and 9/10 teams clinched the premierships. Our Girls 9/10 team also stood out, finishing at the of the ladder of the NWJFU Girls Combined competition. It's great to see opportunities opening up for all our students to showcase their skills.

Up next, our Boys Grade 9/10 team will represent us in Launceston for the Tassie Hawks Cup next month. Best of luck to the team as they vie for the state title!

Sports Coordinator, Mr Sam O'Keeffe, spoke to Mr Jacob Bevis at The Advocate newspaper about the NWJFU season.

Read the article at https://sbsc.me/445POdc