eamon hannan college principal newsletter 15 june 2011

8
~ 1 ~ Dates to remember: June 15 Exams commence P & F Meeting, special time of 6:00 pm 22 Science trip departs 23 Show holiday US trip departs 24 Exams finish Last day of term July 3 NZ trip departs 11 Student free day 12 First day of Term 3 14 Senior Schooling evening 20 P & F Meeting 22 Reports posted home 28 Subject selection evening 30 Senior formal Enrolment at St Patrick’s in 2012: 14 July Introduction to Senior Schooling evening 28 July Subject Selection Evening Following these meetings there are enrolment interviews, finalisation of enrolment by the end of Term 3 and an Orientation day at the end of the school year. Please contact the office for more information regarding these meetings and the enrolment process. If you know of families who are interested in enrolling their student in St Patrick’s next year please get them to contact the college so that they can participate in the full enrolment process. Eamon Hannan – College Principal The gospel reading this Sunday has probably one of the most famous and oft quoted lines from the New Testament. For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. God loves us and our world so much that he gave his Son for us. If we believe in him we will have eternal life. The readings this Sunday are: First Reading: Exodus 34:4-6, 8-9, Psalm: Daniel 3:52-55, Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Gospel: John 3:16-18 Read more: http://www.ewtn.com/devotionals/inspiration.htm#19#ixzz1PCKB5I3w Last newsletter for the term This will be the last newsletter for Term 2. Normally our newsletters are sent home with students every Wednesday. The newsletter is also available online at the college website www.stpats.qld.edu.au and can be emailed to you directly on request. As mentioned in last week’s newsletter we have a number of groups travelling over the June holidays. We have groups travelling to the USA (overseas tour program with Mr Geoghegan), New Zealand (Cultural Performing Tour with Mrs Johnston), Gold Coast (Physics trip with Mrs Cook and QISSN Netball with Mrs Benecke) and Yeppoon (Rugby League Confraternity Carnival with Mr Blakey). We wish all our travellers and competitors a safe and successful tour. Debating Last Tuesday night our debating team of Brittany-Elise Johansen, Malaynee Hayden, Julia Comben and Crispin Scott won the Mackay regional final debate winning the affirmative case – “That the Simpsons are an OK family.” The debate against Whitsunday Anglican School was very entertaining. Our team will now move on to compete in the next level which is the North Queensland final. Congratulations also to Ms Galvin and Mr Gibbs who have coached this team. Holy Trinity Church Performance On Sunday our Handbells, Choir, Percussion Groups and a number of soloists performed at Holy Trinity Anglican Church. The performances were outstanding. Congratulations to Mrs Carmel Daveson, and to Mrs Bianca Johnston for the work of their students on the day. The acoustics in the venue were magnificent as was the sound of the organ accompaniment and solo. Reports and Parent Teacher Night Semester One Reports will be posted on Friday 22 July (the end of the second week back at school). Parent teacher night is on Thursday 4 August. Information as to how to access those meetings will be sent home with the reports. 2012 Enrolment Process in Term 3 We are about to begin our enrolment process which happens in Term 3. All students from Mercy College will have already or will shortly receive information about this enrolment process. If you know of someone from another school interested in attending St Patrick’s College next year please ask them to contact the college office so that we can send them information regarding the enrolment process in Term 3. Key dates for the enrolment process for Year 11 in 2011 are: Senior Schooling Night, 7:30 pm Thursday 14 July (all prospective students must attend) and Subject Information Night, 4:00 - 8:00 pm Thursday 28 July (come at a time to suit your family) Flying Start White Paper For the information of all parents, at the back of this newsletter are copies of media releases from the Premier of Queensland, Ms Anna Bligh and Minister for Education and Industrial Relations, Mr Cameron Dick. Also included is a media release issued by Diocesan Catholic Education Director, Miss Leesa Jeffcoat in relation to the Flying Start White Paper. Newsletter 15 June 2011

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~ 1 ~

Dates to remember

June

15 Exams commence

P amp F Meeting special time of 600 pm

22 Science trip departs

23 Show holiday

US trip departs

24 Exams finish

Last day of term

July

3 NZ trip departs

11 Student free day

12 First day of Term 3

14 Senior Schooling evening

20 P amp F Meeting

22 Reports posted home

28 Subject selection evening

30 Senior formal

Enrolment at St Patrickrsquos in 2012

14 July Introduction to Senior Schooling evening

28 July Subject Selection Evening

Following these meetings there are enrolment interviews finalisation of enrolment by the end of Term 3 and an Orientation day at the end of the school year Please contact the office for more information regarding these meetings and the enrolment process If you know of families who are interested in enrolling their student in St Patrickrsquos next year please get them to contact the college so that they can participate in the full enrolment process

Eamon Hannan ndash College Principal

The gospel reading this Sunday has probably one of the most famous and oft quoted lines from the New Testament

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life

God loves us and our world so much that he gave his Son for us If we believe in him we will have eternal life

The readings this Sunday are First Reading Exodus 344-6 8-9 Psalm Daniel 352-55 Second Reading 2 Corinthians 1311-13 Gospel John 316-18 Read more httpwwwewtncomdevotionalsinspirationhtm19ixzz1PCKB5I3w

Last newsletter for the term This will be the last newsletter for Term 2 Normally our newsletters are sent home with students every Wednesday The newsletter is also available online at the college website wwwstpatsqldeduau and can be emailed to you directly on request

As mentioned in last weekrsquos newsletter we have a number of groups travelling over the June holidays We have groups travelling to the USA (overseas tour program with Mr Geoghegan) New Zealand (Cultural Performing Tour with Mrs Johnston) Gold Coast (Physics trip with Mrs Cook and QISSN Netball with Mrs Benecke) and Yeppoon (Rugby League Confraternity Carnival with Mr Blakey) We wish all our travellers and competitors a safe and successful tour

Debating Last Tuesday night our debating team of Brittany-Elise Johansen Malaynee Hayden Julia Comben and Crispin Scott won the Mackay regional final debate winning the affirmative case ndash ldquoThat the Simpsons are an OK familyrdquo The debate against Whitsunday Anglican School was very entertaining Our team will now move on to compete in the next level which is the North Queensland final Congratulations also to Ms Galvin and Mr Gibbs who have coached this team

Holy Trinity Church Performance On Sunday our Handbells Choir Percussion Groups and a number of soloists performed at Holy Trinity Anglican Church The performances were outstanding Congratulations to Mrs Carmel Daveson and to Mrs Bianca Johnston for the work of their students on the day The acoustics in the venue were magnificent as was the sound of the organ accompaniment and solo

Reports and Parent Teacher Night Semester One Reports will be posted on Friday 22 July (the end of the second week back at school) Parent teacher night is on Thursday 4 August Information as to how to access those meetings will be sent home with the reports

2012 Enrolment Process in Term 3 We are about to begin our enrolment process which happens in Term 3 All students from Mercy College will have already or will shortly receive information about this enrolment process If you know of someone from another school interested in attending St Patrickrsquos College next year please ask them to contact the college office so that we can send them information regarding the enrolment process in Term 3

Key dates for the enrolment process for Year 11 in 2011 are

Senior Schooling Night 730 pm Thursday 14 July (all prospective students must attend) and

Subject Information Night 400 - 800 pm Thursday 28 July (come at a time to suit your family)

Flying Start White Paper For the information of all parents at the back of this newsletter are copies of media releases from the Premier of Queensland Ms Anna Bligh and Minister for Education and Industrial Relations Mr Cameron Dick Also included is a media release issued by Diocesan Catholic Education Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat in relation to the Flying Start White Paper

Newsletter 15 June 2011

~ 2 ~

Weekend Masses

Southside Cluster

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm St Francis Xavier 600 pm St Maryrsquos Sunday 700 am St Patrickrsquos 700 am St Theresersquos 900 am St Michaelrsquos 900 am St Francis Xavier 930 am St Francis of Assisi 600 pm St Patrickrsquos

Northside Cluster

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm St Josephrsquos 600 pm St Brigidrsquos Sunday 730 am St Brendanrsquos 900 am St Josephrsquos

Walkerston

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm St Johnrsquos Sunday 730 am Eton

Marian

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm Holy Rosary Sunday 900 am Mirani

Lesley Fraser ndash Assistant to the Principal Religious Education

After Easter Sunday Christmas is the second-greatest feast in the Christian liturgical calendar but Pentecost Sunday is not far behind It is one of the most ancient feasts of the Church celebrated early enough to be mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (2016) and St Pauls First Letter to the Corinthians (168) It is the 50th day after Easter (if we count both Easter and Pentecost) and it supplants the Jewish feast of Pentecost which took place 50 days after the Passover and which celebrated the sealing of the Old Covenant on Mount Sinai

The Acts of the Apostles recounts the story of the original Pentecost as well (Acts 2) Jews from all over were gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish feast On that Sunday ten days after the Ascension of Our Lord the Apostles and the Blessed Virgin Mary were gathered in the Upper Room where they had seen Christ after His Resurrection

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a mighty wind coming and it filled the whole house where they were sitting And there appeared to them parted tongues as it were of fire and it sat upon every one of them And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and they began to speak with diverse tongues according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak [Acts 22-4]

Christ had promised His Apostles that He would send His Holy Spirit and on Pentecost they were granted the gifts of the Spirit The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are enumerated in Isaiah 112-3 They include wisdom understanding counsel fortitude (or courage) knowledge piety and fear of the Lord They are present in their fullness in Jesus Christ but are found in all Christians who are in a state of grace

With the gifts of the Spirit the Apostles began to preach the Gospel in all of the languages that the Jews who were gathered there spoke and about 3000 people were converted and baptized that day That is why Pentecost is often called the birthday of the Church On this day with the descent of the Holy Spirit Christs mission is completed and the New Covenant is inaugurated

Let us pray O God who by the light of the Holy Spirit did instruct the hearts of the faithful grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations Amen

Edna Galvin ndash Assistant to the Principal Curriculum

Subject Changes THERE SHOULD BE NO SUBJECT CHANGES EXCEPT UNDER EXTREME CIRCUMSTANCES in semester 2 4 QCE OP requirements are now very strict

QCS We are having another practice for Year 12 in the exam block as well as beginning the work of QCS with the Year 11 group ALL Year 11 students will be doing the first practice test They will also be given a brochure to take home explaining all aspects of the test to parents so they can decide if they are going to do the test in 2012

Results We will be sending the latest results of the QCS practice tests home to parents after the holidays This allows parents and students to see how they are going in regard to this section of their schooling ndash keeping in mind the impact it has on their OP result

Farewell to our exchange students It is with mixed feeling we farewell one of our exchange students this week ndash Christopher Haslund Christopher has been with us for almost a year and it has been really wonderful to have him at the college He has been a most pleasant member of the year 12 cohort particularly our Drama class We wish him every success on his return to school in Denmark hope to see him back in Oz one day and that he achieves his dream of studying at Harvard Farewell and blessings Christopher Another student leaving us soon is the lovely Lucy Papa Caminiti from Italy Lucy has been at the college for nearly a year and she has shown outstanding academic skills while she has been here English is not her first language of course but she has frequently scored excellent results in both her school subjects and her QCS tests Lucy has participated in many of the college activities even attending the Catholic Debutante Ball accompanied by Christopher We wish Lucy every success on her return to school and know she will shine at her university studies in the future Johanna Enzinger exchange student from Austria is also returning to her country and family at this time Johanna has been with us since the beginning of the year and we wish her every blessing and best wish Remember you are all always welcome to return to St Patrickrsquos College at any time in the future

~ 3 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 20 Final payment due

July 2 Compulsory

meeting NZ Tour 3-13 Rhapsody Rotorua

Festival 19-22 Choral Festival 11 Choral Festival

Concert

August 5-7 Kevin Ko

Workshop 19-21Mackay Orchestras

and Band Compet

Bianca Johnston - Cultural Coordinator

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC TOUR (Only 18 days to go) Itrsquos the final countdown All final preparations are being made Final invoices have now been prepared and have been sent to families All Rotary Raffle tickets should now have been returned The tour uniform has arrived and has been distributed If your student has not received their tour uniform please collect from Mrs Johnston Students participating in the New Zealand Tour MUST attend a compulsory meeting in the Music room (C23) on Saturday 2 July (day before departure) commencing at 430 pm Final organisation paperwork and information will be shared during this time Following this meeting there will be a packing session All helpers are welcome

If you have any concerns or questions please donrsquot hesitate to contact the College and speak with any of the tour team including Mrs Bianca Johnston Mr Peter Scott Mrs Kerry Hine or Mr Dean Andric

NEW ZEALAND DONATIONS Thank you to Allocated Resources Pty Ltd for their kind donation to the New Zealand Cultural Tour The college and touring party greatly appreciates their generosity

The college would also like to thank BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance Peak Downs Mine for the donation of the safety vests and hats for use at the Mackay Marina Fun Run NZ Fundraiser

NEW ZEALAND REHEARSALS DURING EXAM BLOCK Student travelling and participating in the New Zealand Music Tour will be required to attend rehearsals throughout the exam block Rehearsals have been moved to afternoon sessions to allow students to focus and be fresh for their exams We expect that all members of the touring party attend these important final practices

Rehearsal times are as follows Wednesday 15 June Percussion Ensemble (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Handbell Ensemble (300 pm ndash 500 pm) Thursday 16 June Stage Band (145 pm ndash 330 pm) Friday 17 June Drama Group (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Monday 20 June Drama Group (145 pm ndash 330 pm 500 pm) Tuesday 21 June Percussion Ensemble (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Stage Band (300 pm ndash 430 pm) Wednesday 22 June NZ Choir (145 pm ndash 320 pm) Handbell Ensemble (330 pm ndash 500 pm) Friday 24 June NZ Choir Practice (900 am - 1020 am)

NZ tour students to assist with packing of equipment from 1100 am

CULTURAL STUDENTS OUT AND ABOUT

Izriel Daly and Katherine Styles Wedding (past students) ndash St Maryrsquos Church Congratulations and thank you to the musicians that provided music for this special occasion We thank the Daly and Styles families for their generous donation to the NZ cultural tour

Mackay Marina Fun Run NZ Fundraiser Thank you to all the parent and student assistance at this event

Southern Cluster Catholic Confirmation ndash St Patrickrsquos Church Congratulations and thank you to the musicians that provided music for this special occasion

~ 4 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 27 QISSN (Netball)

and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival

July 22 St Patrickrsquos Athletics

Carnival

Holy Trinity Church Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo Congratulations to all the performers at the Holy Trinity Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo On Sunday afternoon students filled the church with beautiful music and enjoyed listening to the special guest pipe organist Mr Robert Covey A number of people made this event possible Thank you to Holy Trinity Parish for the use of this outstanding performance venue Thanks to Mrs Carmel Daveson Mrs Janet Jackson and Mrs Renae Covey for their musical contributions to the concert Thank you to Mr Mick and Mrs Margaret Browne for packing and transporting equipment Thank you to all the students for their outstanding efforts and we extend our thanks to the parents for their ongoing support and contributions We look forward to presenting many more cultural highlights next term Rostrum Voice of Youth The college recently hosted the annual Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition organised by Mr Brian OrsquoNeill Principal of Calen District State College Crispin Scott was awarded runner-up for the District in a hotly contested final Debating ndash Mackay Final Once again St Patrickrsquos has had a very successful district Debating season This year we had four teams in the local competition The Senior team of Crispin Scott Julia Comben Brittany-Elise Johansen and Malaynee Hayden were undefeated going into the semi-final This was a hard fought battle against an excellent Mirani team who were State Finalists as Juniors The topic was Australia is the 51st State and St Patrickrsquos College won in a closely contested battle The students then went on to debate in the District Final on 7 June This time the team were against one of the senior teams from Whitsunday Anglican School and the topic of the final was the very entertaining The Simpsons are an OK Family It was a riveting and highly entertaining debate with St Patrickrsquos College winning with a very coherent argument This is the first team to win back to back District finals in a decade Well done all The team now goes on to the North Queensland final We congratulate all four students on their tremendous display of spectacular speaking skills hilarious humour and devastating debating Upcoming Events in Term 3 Congratulations to all students staff directors and accompanists for all their hard work throughout term 2 This has been an exciting yet hectic term that has certainly highlighted the talents of our students We look forward to continuing and furthering our talents and commitment to the college co-curricular groups throughout term 3 Term 3 brings a number of spectacular events including 19 ndash 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival (Choir members) 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival Concert 630pm (Choir uniform will be required) 5 ndash 7 August Kevin Ko Handbell Workshop and Festival (Handbell members) 19 ndash 21 August Mackay Orchestrasrsquo and Band Competition (Handbell Percussion Stage Band)

September (TBA) Music Night (Pre Eisteddfod Concert) (all music and co-curricular groups)

Brendon Brauer ndash Sport Coordinator

Rugby Union Selection Congratulations to Year 12 student Eamon Kelly who has been selected in the Queensland Combined Secondary School19 years Rugby Union team Eamon gained selection in this team following his outstanding performance at the 19 years Queensland State titles where he was a member of the Capricornia team Mackay Schoolgirls Netball Semi Finals The St Patrsquos Second VII Netball team was defeated last week by the Mercy First VII in a very close semi-final The girls were very gracious in defeat and despite being very competitive in this important game they were unable to progress through to the final All St Patrsquos netball teams have now completed their netball season for 2011 and can now enjoy a well-earned rest The college would like to acknowledge the efforts of the netball coaching staff who have provided our netball players with an opportunity to play in the Mackay Secondary Schoolgirls competition Ms Tracey McLeod has been very active throughout the season in ensuring our teams were ready to play and her efforts must also be acknowledged Rugby Union - Semi Final (Mr Mark Casey) St Patrickrsquos College played Mackay Christian College last Friday in the opening semi-final of the district competition MCC applied pressure early and celebrated enthusiastically after scoring the opening try Nick Andrew was also applying pressure in defence which led to him taking an intercept and running 50 metres to score a superb solo try At half the time the score was 17 to 5 to MCC with poor ball control hindering St Patrickrsquos progress

~ 5 ~

The 1st XV showed more discipline in the second half by stringing more phases together giving Kelton Dorante the opportunity to score two barnstorming tries MCC hit back to lead the game 24 to 19 with minutes remaining In the dying minutes through continued effort and outstanding footwork Alex Jokovich scored a fantastic try followed by a sterling conversion leaving St Patrsquos as victors 26 to 24 Exceptional efforts included Captain Eamon Kelly Josh Ingram James McCann Victor de Nysschen and Keiran OrsquoDwyer St Patrsquos will compete in the Grand Final this Friday beginning 630 pm at Quarry Hill all supporters are welcome for a great night of Rugby Union Rugby Union Grand Final Congratulations to both Mr Casey and Mr Smith who have guided the St Patrsquos First XV into the Mackay Schoolboys Rugby Union grand final This game will be played on Friday night at 630 pm at Quarry Hill and the team would appreciate some support from the St Patrsquos Community Rugby League (Mr Kevin Blakey) For all Rugby League Confraternity players all training in the lead up to the carnival must be attended in the exam block as you will be replaced if this does not happen Please pay particular attention to your training schedule that was handed to you with your congratulations letter If you do not train you do not go away Contact Maurie Fatnowna for any problems with this His mobile number is on the Parent Confraternity information sheet Rugby League Fundraising

Game Date Series No Home Team Opposition Prize

1 110311 968549 Broncos 4

Cowboys 10

$150

3 250311 969534 Gold Coast

3

Broncos

11

$150

5 080411 970031 Cowboys 4

Titans 2

$150

7 220411 970034 Tigers 7

Broncos 5

$150

8 290411 970039 Broncos

6

Bulldogs

4

$150

9 060511 970531 Australia 1

New Zealand 2

$400

10 130511 971031 Panthers 13

Broncos 7

$150

11 200511 962623 Raiders

4

Bulldogs

3

$150

13 270511 962626 Manly 5

Broncos 13

$150

14 030611 963123 Sharks 11

Broncos 2

$150

15 100611 963625 St George

2

Titans

4

$150

Important Dates June 27 QISSN (Netball) and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival July 22 St Patrickrsquos College Athletics Carnival

William Cassells - VET Coordinator

Year 11 work placement is now under way with 60 students commencing the first of four placements scheduled for their time at St Patrickrsquos The inability to secure placements within our set time guidelines has been an issue for some students and I thank all concerned for your ongoing patience Workplaces will be contacted today to check that all is well with placements then each student will be visited on site during next week I recently had the pleasure of presenting Brendan Stelmach of Year 11 with his Defence Technical Scholarship during the college Assembly Brendanrsquos responses to a set of research tasks as well as demonstrating his knowledge of trades within the Australian Defence Force were judged against over 2000 entries from across Australia His scholarship provides a sum of $2 000 for 2011 as an incentive to continue with his schooling placing special emphasis his Maths and Trade studies

~ 6 ~

Tracey McLeod - Pastoral Coordinator

Year 12 Formal The Year 12 Formal will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday July 30 The theme for the evening is ldquoA Night in an Enchanted Gardenrdquo To assist with theme decorations on the night we are asking for donations of artificial flowers No flower is too old or too ugly If you are able to help with the supply of flowers could you please drop these at the St Patrickrsquos College office for Mrs McLeod Tickets for the formal will be available for purchase from Tuesday 14 June until Thursday 14 July at St Patrickrsquos College office cost is $9500 Price includes a two course buffet dinner on the night No tickets will be sold after 14 July due to MECC catering restrictions Any student with special dietary requirements is asked to contact Mrs McLeod by 14 July The formal begins with a family function at 645 pm and will end at 1130 pm students will not be permitted to leave before this time Booking times for the official photographer are available in five minute time slots from 330 pm on the day of the formal These bookings can only be made through Mrs McLeod after receipt of a $10 deposit A flyer containing information about the formal and a brochure from the official photographer were given to all year 12 students last week

Physics in Motion - Dorota Cook Physics teacher

Physics in Motion is a state-wide program aimed at informing and educating Physics students about the effects and impacts that motion has on our daily lives On 17 May St Patrickrsquos Year 11 Physics students were privileged to attend this unique event which was held at the Mackay Showgrounds The day involved theory sessions which were followed by practical demonstrations Students were able to experience first-hand the forces when accelerating braking and turning sharply in a car The day was very enjoyable and all students felt they had benefited from the experience We thank the teachers who organised the excursion and congratulate the St Patrickrsquos students for their great behaviour

DIGNITY OF LIFE EVENING Questions and Answers with

Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini amp Dr Mary Walsh

Topics

Bioethics Caring for people who are sick or dying Donating organs and tissues Man and woman he made them Motherhood and technology Protecting human life and dignity

Saturday 25th June 700 pm

ST JOSEPHrsquoS PARISH CENTRE 21 Grendon Street North Mackay

BYO Plate

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 2 ~

Weekend Masses

Southside Cluster

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm St Francis Xavier 600 pm St Maryrsquos Sunday 700 am St Patrickrsquos 700 am St Theresersquos 900 am St Michaelrsquos 900 am St Francis Xavier 930 am St Francis of Assisi 600 pm St Patrickrsquos

Northside Cluster

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm St Josephrsquos 600 pm St Brigidrsquos Sunday 730 am St Brendanrsquos 900 am St Josephrsquos

Walkerston

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm St Johnrsquos Sunday 730 am Eton

Marian

Saturday Vigil Mass 600 pm Holy Rosary Sunday 900 am Mirani

Lesley Fraser ndash Assistant to the Principal Religious Education

After Easter Sunday Christmas is the second-greatest feast in the Christian liturgical calendar but Pentecost Sunday is not far behind It is one of the most ancient feasts of the Church celebrated early enough to be mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (2016) and St Pauls First Letter to the Corinthians (168) It is the 50th day after Easter (if we count both Easter and Pentecost) and it supplants the Jewish feast of Pentecost which took place 50 days after the Passover and which celebrated the sealing of the Old Covenant on Mount Sinai

The Acts of the Apostles recounts the story of the original Pentecost as well (Acts 2) Jews from all over were gathered in Jerusalem to celebrate the Jewish feast On that Sunday ten days after the Ascension of Our Lord the Apostles and the Blessed Virgin Mary were gathered in the Upper Room where they had seen Christ after His Resurrection

And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a mighty wind coming and it filled the whole house where they were sitting And there appeared to them parted tongues as it were of fire and it sat upon every one of them And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and they began to speak with diverse tongues according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak [Acts 22-4]

Christ had promised His Apostles that He would send His Holy Spirit and on Pentecost they were granted the gifts of the Spirit The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are enumerated in Isaiah 112-3 They include wisdom understanding counsel fortitude (or courage) knowledge piety and fear of the Lord They are present in their fullness in Jesus Christ but are found in all Christians who are in a state of grace

With the gifts of the Spirit the Apostles began to preach the Gospel in all of the languages that the Jews who were gathered there spoke and about 3000 people were converted and baptized that day That is why Pentecost is often called the birthday of the Church On this day with the descent of the Holy Spirit Christs mission is completed and the New Covenant is inaugurated

Let us pray O God who by the light of the Holy Spirit did instruct the hearts of the faithful grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations Amen

Edna Galvin ndash Assistant to the Principal Curriculum

Subject Changes THERE SHOULD BE NO SUBJECT CHANGES EXCEPT UNDER EXTREME CIRCUMSTANCES in semester 2 4 QCE OP requirements are now very strict

QCS We are having another practice for Year 12 in the exam block as well as beginning the work of QCS with the Year 11 group ALL Year 11 students will be doing the first practice test They will also be given a brochure to take home explaining all aspects of the test to parents so they can decide if they are going to do the test in 2012

Results We will be sending the latest results of the QCS practice tests home to parents after the holidays This allows parents and students to see how they are going in regard to this section of their schooling ndash keeping in mind the impact it has on their OP result

Farewell to our exchange students It is with mixed feeling we farewell one of our exchange students this week ndash Christopher Haslund Christopher has been with us for almost a year and it has been really wonderful to have him at the college He has been a most pleasant member of the year 12 cohort particularly our Drama class We wish him every success on his return to school in Denmark hope to see him back in Oz one day and that he achieves his dream of studying at Harvard Farewell and blessings Christopher Another student leaving us soon is the lovely Lucy Papa Caminiti from Italy Lucy has been at the college for nearly a year and she has shown outstanding academic skills while she has been here English is not her first language of course but she has frequently scored excellent results in both her school subjects and her QCS tests Lucy has participated in many of the college activities even attending the Catholic Debutante Ball accompanied by Christopher We wish Lucy every success on her return to school and know she will shine at her university studies in the future Johanna Enzinger exchange student from Austria is also returning to her country and family at this time Johanna has been with us since the beginning of the year and we wish her every blessing and best wish Remember you are all always welcome to return to St Patrickrsquos College at any time in the future

~ 3 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 20 Final payment due

July 2 Compulsory

meeting NZ Tour 3-13 Rhapsody Rotorua

Festival 19-22 Choral Festival 11 Choral Festival

Concert

August 5-7 Kevin Ko

Workshop 19-21Mackay Orchestras

and Band Compet

Bianca Johnston - Cultural Coordinator

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC TOUR (Only 18 days to go) Itrsquos the final countdown All final preparations are being made Final invoices have now been prepared and have been sent to families All Rotary Raffle tickets should now have been returned The tour uniform has arrived and has been distributed If your student has not received their tour uniform please collect from Mrs Johnston Students participating in the New Zealand Tour MUST attend a compulsory meeting in the Music room (C23) on Saturday 2 July (day before departure) commencing at 430 pm Final organisation paperwork and information will be shared during this time Following this meeting there will be a packing session All helpers are welcome

If you have any concerns or questions please donrsquot hesitate to contact the College and speak with any of the tour team including Mrs Bianca Johnston Mr Peter Scott Mrs Kerry Hine or Mr Dean Andric

NEW ZEALAND DONATIONS Thank you to Allocated Resources Pty Ltd for their kind donation to the New Zealand Cultural Tour The college and touring party greatly appreciates their generosity

The college would also like to thank BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance Peak Downs Mine for the donation of the safety vests and hats for use at the Mackay Marina Fun Run NZ Fundraiser

NEW ZEALAND REHEARSALS DURING EXAM BLOCK Student travelling and participating in the New Zealand Music Tour will be required to attend rehearsals throughout the exam block Rehearsals have been moved to afternoon sessions to allow students to focus and be fresh for their exams We expect that all members of the touring party attend these important final practices

Rehearsal times are as follows Wednesday 15 June Percussion Ensemble (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Handbell Ensemble (300 pm ndash 500 pm) Thursday 16 June Stage Band (145 pm ndash 330 pm) Friday 17 June Drama Group (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Monday 20 June Drama Group (145 pm ndash 330 pm 500 pm) Tuesday 21 June Percussion Ensemble (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Stage Band (300 pm ndash 430 pm) Wednesday 22 June NZ Choir (145 pm ndash 320 pm) Handbell Ensemble (330 pm ndash 500 pm) Friday 24 June NZ Choir Practice (900 am - 1020 am)

NZ tour students to assist with packing of equipment from 1100 am

CULTURAL STUDENTS OUT AND ABOUT

Izriel Daly and Katherine Styles Wedding (past students) ndash St Maryrsquos Church Congratulations and thank you to the musicians that provided music for this special occasion We thank the Daly and Styles families for their generous donation to the NZ cultural tour

Mackay Marina Fun Run NZ Fundraiser Thank you to all the parent and student assistance at this event

Southern Cluster Catholic Confirmation ndash St Patrickrsquos Church Congratulations and thank you to the musicians that provided music for this special occasion

~ 4 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 27 QISSN (Netball)

and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival

July 22 St Patrickrsquos Athletics

Carnival

Holy Trinity Church Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo Congratulations to all the performers at the Holy Trinity Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo On Sunday afternoon students filled the church with beautiful music and enjoyed listening to the special guest pipe organist Mr Robert Covey A number of people made this event possible Thank you to Holy Trinity Parish for the use of this outstanding performance venue Thanks to Mrs Carmel Daveson Mrs Janet Jackson and Mrs Renae Covey for their musical contributions to the concert Thank you to Mr Mick and Mrs Margaret Browne for packing and transporting equipment Thank you to all the students for their outstanding efforts and we extend our thanks to the parents for their ongoing support and contributions We look forward to presenting many more cultural highlights next term Rostrum Voice of Youth The college recently hosted the annual Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition organised by Mr Brian OrsquoNeill Principal of Calen District State College Crispin Scott was awarded runner-up for the District in a hotly contested final Debating ndash Mackay Final Once again St Patrickrsquos has had a very successful district Debating season This year we had four teams in the local competition The Senior team of Crispin Scott Julia Comben Brittany-Elise Johansen and Malaynee Hayden were undefeated going into the semi-final This was a hard fought battle against an excellent Mirani team who were State Finalists as Juniors The topic was Australia is the 51st State and St Patrickrsquos College won in a closely contested battle The students then went on to debate in the District Final on 7 June This time the team were against one of the senior teams from Whitsunday Anglican School and the topic of the final was the very entertaining The Simpsons are an OK Family It was a riveting and highly entertaining debate with St Patrickrsquos College winning with a very coherent argument This is the first team to win back to back District finals in a decade Well done all The team now goes on to the North Queensland final We congratulate all four students on their tremendous display of spectacular speaking skills hilarious humour and devastating debating Upcoming Events in Term 3 Congratulations to all students staff directors and accompanists for all their hard work throughout term 2 This has been an exciting yet hectic term that has certainly highlighted the talents of our students We look forward to continuing and furthering our talents and commitment to the college co-curricular groups throughout term 3 Term 3 brings a number of spectacular events including 19 ndash 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival (Choir members) 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival Concert 630pm (Choir uniform will be required) 5 ndash 7 August Kevin Ko Handbell Workshop and Festival (Handbell members) 19 ndash 21 August Mackay Orchestrasrsquo and Band Competition (Handbell Percussion Stage Band)

September (TBA) Music Night (Pre Eisteddfod Concert) (all music and co-curricular groups)

Brendon Brauer ndash Sport Coordinator

Rugby Union Selection Congratulations to Year 12 student Eamon Kelly who has been selected in the Queensland Combined Secondary School19 years Rugby Union team Eamon gained selection in this team following his outstanding performance at the 19 years Queensland State titles where he was a member of the Capricornia team Mackay Schoolgirls Netball Semi Finals The St Patrsquos Second VII Netball team was defeated last week by the Mercy First VII in a very close semi-final The girls were very gracious in defeat and despite being very competitive in this important game they were unable to progress through to the final All St Patrsquos netball teams have now completed their netball season for 2011 and can now enjoy a well-earned rest The college would like to acknowledge the efforts of the netball coaching staff who have provided our netball players with an opportunity to play in the Mackay Secondary Schoolgirls competition Ms Tracey McLeod has been very active throughout the season in ensuring our teams were ready to play and her efforts must also be acknowledged Rugby Union - Semi Final (Mr Mark Casey) St Patrickrsquos College played Mackay Christian College last Friday in the opening semi-final of the district competition MCC applied pressure early and celebrated enthusiastically after scoring the opening try Nick Andrew was also applying pressure in defence which led to him taking an intercept and running 50 metres to score a superb solo try At half the time the score was 17 to 5 to MCC with poor ball control hindering St Patrickrsquos progress

~ 5 ~

The 1st XV showed more discipline in the second half by stringing more phases together giving Kelton Dorante the opportunity to score two barnstorming tries MCC hit back to lead the game 24 to 19 with minutes remaining In the dying minutes through continued effort and outstanding footwork Alex Jokovich scored a fantastic try followed by a sterling conversion leaving St Patrsquos as victors 26 to 24 Exceptional efforts included Captain Eamon Kelly Josh Ingram James McCann Victor de Nysschen and Keiran OrsquoDwyer St Patrsquos will compete in the Grand Final this Friday beginning 630 pm at Quarry Hill all supporters are welcome for a great night of Rugby Union Rugby Union Grand Final Congratulations to both Mr Casey and Mr Smith who have guided the St Patrsquos First XV into the Mackay Schoolboys Rugby Union grand final This game will be played on Friday night at 630 pm at Quarry Hill and the team would appreciate some support from the St Patrsquos Community Rugby League (Mr Kevin Blakey) For all Rugby League Confraternity players all training in the lead up to the carnival must be attended in the exam block as you will be replaced if this does not happen Please pay particular attention to your training schedule that was handed to you with your congratulations letter If you do not train you do not go away Contact Maurie Fatnowna for any problems with this His mobile number is on the Parent Confraternity information sheet Rugby League Fundraising

Game Date Series No Home Team Opposition Prize

1 110311 968549 Broncos 4

Cowboys 10

$150

3 250311 969534 Gold Coast

3

Broncos

11

$150

5 080411 970031 Cowboys 4

Titans 2

$150

7 220411 970034 Tigers 7

Broncos 5

$150

8 290411 970039 Broncos

6

Bulldogs

4

$150

9 060511 970531 Australia 1

New Zealand 2

$400

10 130511 971031 Panthers 13

Broncos 7

$150

11 200511 962623 Raiders

4

Bulldogs

3

$150

13 270511 962626 Manly 5

Broncos 13

$150

14 030611 963123 Sharks 11

Broncos 2

$150

15 100611 963625 St George

2

Titans

4

$150

Important Dates June 27 QISSN (Netball) and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival July 22 St Patrickrsquos College Athletics Carnival

William Cassells - VET Coordinator

Year 11 work placement is now under way with 60 students commencing the first of four placements scheduled for their time at St Patrickrsquos The inability to secure placements within our set time guidelines has been an issue for some students and I thank all concerned for your ongoing patience Workplaces will be contacted today to check that all is well with placements then each student will be visited on site during next week I recently had the pleasure of presenting Brendan Stelmach of Year 11 with his Defence Technical Scholarship during the college Assembly Brendanrsquos responses to a set of research tasks as well as demonstrating his knowledge of trades within the Australian Defence Force were judged against over 2000 entries from across Australia His scholarship provides a sum of $2 000 for 2011 as an incentive to continue with his schooling placing special emphasis his Maths and Trade studies

~ 6 ~

Tracey McLeod - Pastoral Coordinator

Year 12 Formal The Year 12 Formal will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday July 30 The theme for the evening is ldquoA Night in an Enchanted Gardenrdquo To assist with theme decorations on the night we are asking for donations of artificial flowers No flower is too old or too ugly If you are able to help with the supply of flowers could you please drop these at the St Patrickrsquos College office for Mrs McLeod Tickets for the formal will be available for purchase from Tuesday 14 June until Thursday 14 July at St Patrickrsquos College office cost is $9500 Price includes a two course buffet dinner on the night No tickets will be sold after 14 July due to MECC catering restrictions Any student with special dietary requirements is asked to contact Mrs McLeod by 14 July The formal begins with a family function at 645 pm and will end at 1130 pm students will not be permitted to leave before this time Booking times for the official photographer are available in five minute time slots from 330 pm on the day of the formal These bookings can only be made through Mrs McLeod after receipt of a $10 deposit A flyer containing information about the formal and a brochure from the official photographer were given to all year 12 students last week

Physics in Motion - Dorota Cook Physics teacher

Physics in Motion is a state-wide program aimed at informing and educating Physics students about the effects and impacts that motion has on our daily lives On 17 May St Patrickrsquos Year 11 Physics students were privileged to attend this unique event which was held at the Mackay Showgrounds The day involved theory sessions which were followed by practical demonstrations Students were able to experience first-hand the forces when accelerating braking and turning sharply in a car The day was very enjoyable and all students felt they had benefited from the experience We thank the teachers who organised the excursion and congratulate the St Patrickrsquos students for their great behaviour

DIGNITY OF LIFE EVENING Questions and Answers with

Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini amp Dr Mary Walsh

Topics

Bioethics Caring for people who are sick or dying Donating organs and tissues Man and woman he made them Motherhood and technology Protecting human life and dignity

Saturday 25th June 700 pm

ST JOSEPHrsquoS PARISH CENTRE 21 Grendon Street North Mackay

BYO Plate

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 3 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 20 Final payment due

July 2 Compulsory

meeting NZ Tour 3-13 Rhapsody Rotorua

Festival 19-22 Choral Festival 11 Choral Festival

Concert

August 5-7 Kevin Ko

Workshop 19-21Mackay Orchestras

and Band Compet

Bianca Johnston - Cultural Coordinator

NEW ZEALAND MUSIC TOUR (Only 18 days to go) Itrsquos the final countdown All final preparations are being made Final invoices have now been prepared and have been sent to families All Rotary Raffle tickets should now have been returned The tour uniform has arrived and has been distributed If your student has not received their tour uniform please collect from Mrs Johnston Students participating in the New Zealand Tour MUST attend a compulsory meeting in the Music room (C23) on Saturday 2 July (day before departure) commencing at 430 pm Final organisation paperwork and information will be shared during this time Following this meeting there will be a packing session All helpers are welcome

If you have any concerns or questions please donrsquot hesitate to contact the College and speak with any of the tour team including Mrs Bianca Johnston Mr Peter Scott Mrs Kerry Hine or Mr Dean Andric

NEW ZEALAND DONATIONS Thank you to Allocated Resources Pty Ltd for their kind donation to the New Zealand Cultural Tour The college and touring party greatly appreciates their generosity

The college would also like to thank BHP Billiton Mitsubishi Alliance Peak Downs Mine for the donation of the safety vests and hats for use at the Mackay Marina Fun Run NZ Fundraiser

NEW ZEALAND REHEARSALS DURING EXAM BLOCK Student travelling and participating in the New Zealand Music Tour will be required to attend rehearsals throughout the exam block Rehearsals have been moved to afternoon sessions to allow students to focus and be fresh for their exams We expect that all members of the touring party attend these important final practices

Rehearsal times are as follows Wednesday 15 June Percussion Ensemble (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Handbell Ensemble (300 pm ndash 500 pm) Thursday 16 June Stage Band (145 pm ndash 330 pm) Friday 17 June Drama Group (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Monday 20 June Drama Group (145 pm ndash 330 pm 500 pm) Tuesday 21 June Percussion Ensemble (145 pm ndash 300 pm) Stage Band (300 pm ndash 430 pm) Wednesday 22 June NZ Choir (145 pm ndash 320 pm) Handbell Ensemble (330 pm ndash 500 pm) Friday 24 June NZ Choir Practice (900 am - 1020 am)

NZ tour students to assist with packing of equipment from 1100 am

CULTURAL STUDENTS OUT AND ABOUT

Izriel Daly and Katherine Styles Wedding (past students) ndash St Maryrsquos Church Congratulations and thank you to the musicians that provided music for this special occasion We thank the Daly and Styles families for their generous donation to the NZ cultural tour

Mackay Marina Fun Run NZ Fundraiser Thank you to all the parent and student assistance at this event

Southern Cluster Catholic Confirmation ndash St Patrickrsquos Church Congratulations and thank you to the musicians that provided music for this special occasion

~ 4 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 27 QISSN (Netball)

and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival

July 22 St Patrickrsquos Athletics

Carnival

Holy Trinity Church Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo Congratulations to all the performers at the Holy Trinity Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo On Sunday afternoon students filled the church with beautiful music and enjoyed listening to the special guest pipe organist Mr Robert Covey A number of people made this event possible Thank you to Holy Trinity Parish for the use of this outstanding performance venue Thanks to Mrs Carmel Daveson Mrs Janet Jackson and Mrs Renae Covey for their musical contributions to the concert Thank you to Mr Mick and Mrs Margaret Browne for packing and transporting equipment Thank you to all the students for their outstanding efforts and we extend our thanks to the parents for their ongoing support and contributions We look forward to presenting many more cultural highlights next term Rostrum Voice of Youth The college recently hosted the annual Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition organised by Mr Brian OrsquoNeill Principal of Calen District State College Crispin Scott was awarded runner-up for the District in a hotly contested final Debating ndash Mackay Final Once again St Patrickrsquos has had a very successful district Debating season This year we had four teams in the local competition The Senior team of Crispin Scott Julia Comben Brittany-Elise Johansen and Malaynee Hayden were undefeated going into the semi-final This was a hard fought battle against an excellent Mirani team who were State Finalists as Juniors The topic was Australia is the 51st State and St Patrickrsquos College won in a closely contested battle The students then went on to debate in the District Final on 7 June This time the team were against one of the senior teams from Whitsunday Anglican School and the topic of the final was the very entertaining The Simpsons are an OK Family It was a riveting and highly entertaining debate with St Patrickrsquos College winning with a very coherent argument This is the first team to win back to back District finals in a decade Well done all The team now goes on to the North Queensland final We congratulate all four students on their tremendous display of spectacular speaking skills hilarious humour and devastating debating Upcoming Events in Term 3 Congratulations to all students staff directors and accompanists for all their hard work throughout term 2 This has been an exciting yet hectic term that has certainly highlighted the talents of our students We look forward to continuing and furthering our talents and commitment to the college co-curricular groups throughout term 3 Term 3 brings a number of spectacular events including 19 ndash 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival (Choir members) 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival Concert 630pm (Choir uniform will be required) 5 ndash 7 August Kevin Ko Handbell Workshop and Festival (Handbell members) 19 ndash 21 August Mackay Orchestrasrsquo and Band Competition (Handbell Percussion Stage Band)

September (TBA) Music Night (Pre Eisteddfod Concert) (all music and co-curricular groups)

Brendon Brauer ndash Sport Coordinator

Rugby Union Selection Congratulations to Year 12 student Eamon Kelly who has been selected in the Queensland Combined Secondary School19 years Rugby Union team Eamon gained selection in this team following his outstanding performance at the 19 years Queensland State titles where he was a member of the Capricornia team Mackay Schoolgirls Netball Semi Finals The St Patrsquos Second VII Netball team was defeated last week by the Mercy First VII in a very close semi-final The girls were very gracious in defeat and despite being very competitive in this important game they were unable to progress through to the final All St Patrsquos netball teams have now completed their netball season for 2011 and can now enjoy a well-earned rest The college would like to acknowledge the efforts of the netball coaching staff who have provided our netball players with an opportunity to play in the Mackay Secondary Schoolgirls competition Ms Tracey McLeod has been very active throughout the season in ensuring our teams were ready to play and her efforts must also be acknowledged Rugby Union - Semi Final (Mr Mark Casey) St Patrickrsquos College played Mackay Christian College last Friday in the opening semi-final of the district competition MCC applied pressure early and celebrated enthusiastically after scoring the opening try Nick Andrew was also applying pressure in defence which led to him taking an intercept and running 50 metres to score a superb solo try At half the time the score was 17 to 5 to MCC with poor ball control hindering St Patrickrsquos progress

~ 5 ~

The 1st XV showed more discipline in the second half by stringing more phases together giving Kelton Dorante the opportunity to score two barnstorming tries MCC hit back to lead the game 24 to 19 with minutes remaining In the dying minutes through continued effort and outstanding footwork Alex Jokovich scored a fantastic try followed by a sterling conversion leaving St Patrsquos as victors 26 to 24 Exceptional efforts included Captain Eamon Kelly Josh Ingram James McCann Victor de Nysschen and Keiran OrsquoDwyer St Patrsquos will compete in the Grand Final this Friday beginning 630 pm at Quarry Hill all supporters are welcome for a great night of Rugby Union Rugby Union Grand Final Congratulations to both Mr Casey and Mr Smith who have guided the St Patrsquos First XV into the Mackay Schoolboys Rugby Union grand final This game will be played on Friday night at 630 pm at Quarry Hill and the team would appreciate some support from the St Patrsquos Community Rugby League (Mr Kevin Blakey) For all Rugby League Confraternity players all training in the lead up to the carnival must be attended in the exam block as you will be replaced if this does not happen Please pay particular attention to your training schedule that was handed to you with your congratulations letter If you do not train you do not go away Contact Maurie Fatnowna for any problems with this His mobile number is on the Parent Confraternity information sheet Rugby League Fundraising

Game Date Series No Home Team Opposition Prize

1 110311 968549 Broncos 4

Cowboys 10

$150

3 250311 969534 Gold Coast

3

Broncos

11

$150

5 080411 970031 Cowboys 4

Titans 2

$150

7 220411 970034 Tigers 7

Broncos 5

$150

8 290411 970039 Broncos

6

Bulldogs

4

$150

9 060511 970531 Australia 1

New Zealand 2

$400

10 130511 971031 Panthers 13

Broncos 7

$150

11 200511 962623 Raiders

4

Bulldogs

3

$150

13 270511 962626 Manly 5

Broncos 13

$150

14 030611 963123 Sharks 11

Broncos 2

$150

15 100611 963625 St George

2

Titans

4

$150

Important Dates June 27 QISSN (Netball) and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival July 22 St Patrickrsquos College Athletics Carnival

William Cassells - VET Coordinator

Year 11 work placement is now under way with 60 students commencing the first of four placements scheduled for their time at St Patrickrsquos The inability to secure placements within our set time guidelines has been an issue for some students and I thank all concerned for your ongoing patience Workplaces will be contacted today to check that all is well with placements then each student will be visited on site during next week I recently had the pleasure of presenting Brendan Stelmach of Year 11 with his Defence Technical Scholarship during the college Assembly Brendanrsquos responses to a set of research tasks as well as demonstrating his knowledge of trades within the Australian Defence Force were judged against over 2000 entries from across Australia His scholarship provides a sum of $2 000 for 2011 as an incentive to continue with his schooling placing special emphasis his Maths and Trade studies

~ 6 ~

Tracey McLeod - Pastoral Coordinator

Year 12 Formal The Year 12 Formal will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday July 30 The theme for the evening is ldquoA Night in an Enchanted Gardenrdquo To assist with theme decorations on the night we are asking for donations of artificial flowers No flower is too old or too ugly If you are able to help with the supply of flowers could you please drop these at the St Patrickrsquos College office for Mrs McLeod Tickets for the formal will be available for purchase from Tuesday 14 June until Thursday 14 July at St Patrickrsquos College office cost is $9500 Price includes a two course buffet dinner on the night No tickets will be sold after 14 July due to MECC catering restrictions Any student with special dietary requirements is asked to contact Mrs McLeod by 14 July The formal begins with a family function at 645 pm and will end at 1130 pm students will not be permitted to leave before this time Booking times for the official photographer are available in five minute time slots from 330 pm on the day of the formal These bookings can only be made through Mrs McLeod after receipt of a $10 deposit A flyer containing information about the formal and a brochure from the official photographer were given to all year 12 students last week

Physics in Motion - Dorota Cook Physics teacher

Physics in Motion is a state-wide program aimed at informing and educating Physics students about the effects and impacts that motion has on our daily lives On 17 May St Patrickrsquos Year 11 Physics students were privileged to attend this unique event which was held at the Mackay Showgrounds The day involved theory sessions which were followed by practical demonstrations Students were able to experience first-hand the forces when accelerating braking and turning sharply in a car The day was very enjoyable and all students felt they had benefited from the experience We thank the teachers who organised the excursion and congratulate the St Patrickrsquos students for their great behaviour

DIGNITY OF LIFE EVENING Questions and Answers with

Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini amp Dr Mary Walsh

Topics

Bioethics Caring for people who are sick or dying Donating organs and tissues Man and woman he made them Motherhood and technology Protecting human life and dignity

Saturday 25th June 700 pm

ST JOSEPHrsquoS PARISH CENTRE 21 Grendon Street North Mackay

BYO Plate

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 4 ~

Important dates at a glance hellip

June 27 QISSN (Netball)

and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival

July 22 St Patrickrsquos Athletics

Carnival

Holy Trinity Church Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo Congratulations to all the performers at the Holy Trinity Concert ldquoA Musical Celebrationrdquo On Sunday afternoon students filled the church with beautiful music and enjoyed listening to the special guest pipe organist Mr Robert Covey A number of people made this event possible Thank you to Holy Trinity Parish for the use of this outstanding performance venue Thanks to Mrs Carmel Daveson Mrs Janet Jackson and Mrs Renae Covey for their musical contributions to the concert Thank you to Mr Mick and Mrs Margaret Browne for packing and transporting equipment Thank you to all the students for their outstanding efforts and we extend our thanks to the parents for their ongoing support and contributions We look forward to presenting many more cultural highlights next term Rostrum Voice of Youth The college recently hosted the annual Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition organised by Mr Brian OrsquoNeill Principal of Calen District State College Crispin Scott was awarded runner-up for the District in a hotly contested final Debating ndash Mackay Final Once again St Patrickrsquos has had a very successful district Debating season This year we had four teams in the local competition The Senior team of Crispin Scott Julia Comben Brittany-Elise Johansen and Malaynee Hayden were undefeated going into the semi-final This was a hard fought battle against an excellent Mirani team who were State Finalists as Juniors The topic was Australia is the 51st State and St Patrickrsquos College won in a closely contested battle The students then went on to debate in the District Final on 7 June This time the team were against one of the senior teams from Whitsunday Anglican School and the topic of the final was the very entertaining The Simpsons are an OK Family It was a riveting and highly entertaining debate with St Patrickrsquos College winning with a very coherent argument This is the first team to win back to back District finals in a decade Well done all The team now goes on to the North Queensland final We congratulate all four students on their tremendous display of spectacular speaking skills hilarious humour and devastating debating Upcoming Events in Term 3 Congratulations to all students staff directors and accompanists for all their hard work throughout term 2 This has been an exciting yet hectic term that has certainly highlighted the talents of our students We look forward to continuing and furthering our talents and commitment to the college co-curricular groups throughout term 3 Term 3 brings a number of spectacular events including 19 ndash 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival (Choir members) 22 July Secondary Schools Choral Festival Concert 630pm (Choir uniform will be required) 5 ndash 7 August Kevin Ko Handbell Workshop and Festival (Handbell members) 19 ndash 21 August Mackay Orchestrasrsquo and Band Competition (Handbell Percussion Stage Band)

September (TBA) Music Night (Pre Eisteddfod Concert) (all music and co-curricular groups)

Brendon Brauer ndash Sport Coordinator

Rugby Union Selection Congratulations to Year 12 student Eamon Kelly who has been selected in the Queensland Combined Secondary School19 years Rugby Union team Eamon gained selection in this team following his outstanding performance at the 19 years Queensland State titles where he was a member of the Capricornia team Mackay Schoolgirls Netball Semi Finals The St Patrsquos Second VII Netball team was defeated last week by the Mercy First VII in a very close semi-final The girls were very gracious in defeat and despite being very competitive in this important game they were unable to progress through to the final All St Patrsquos netball teams have now completed their netball season for 2011 and can now enjoy a well-earned rest The college would like to acknowledge the efforts of the netball coaching staff who have provided our netball players with an opportunity to play in the Mackay Secondary Schoolgirls competition Ms Tracey McLeod has been very active throughout the season in ensuring our teams were ready to play and her efforts must also be acknowledged Rugby Union - Semi Final (Mr Mark Casey) St Patrickrsquos College played Mackay Christian College last Friday in the opening semi-final of the district competition MCC applied pressure early and celebrated enthusiastically after scoring the opening try Nick Andrew was also applying pressure in defence which led to him taking an intercept and running 50 metres to score a superb solo try At half the time the score was 17 to 5 to MCC with poor ball control hindering St Patrickrsquos progress

~ 5 ~

The 1st XV showed more discipline in the second half by stringing more phases together giving Kelton Dorante the opportunity to score two barnstorming tries MCC hit back to lead the game 24 to 19 with minutes remaining In the dying minutes through continued effort and outstanding footwork Alex Jokovich scored a fantastic try followed by a sterling conversion leaving St Patrsquos as victors 26 to 24 Exceptional efforts included Captain Eamon Kelly Josh Ingram James McCann Victor de Nysschen and Keiran OrsquoDwyer St Patrsquos will compete in the Grand Final this Friday beginning 630 pm at Quarry Hill all supporters are welcome for a great night of Rugby Union Rugby Union Grand Final Congratulations to both Mr Casey and Mr Smith who have guided the St Patrsquos First XV into the Mackay Schoolboys Rugby Union grand final This game will be played on Friday night at 630 pm at Quarry Hill and the team would appreciate some support from the St Patrsquos Community Rugby League (Mr Kevin Blakey) For all Rugby League Confraternity players all training in the lead up to the carnival must be attended in the exam block as you will be replaced if this does not happen Please pay particular attention to your training schedule that was handed to you with your congratulations letter If you do not train you do not go away Contact Maurie Fatnowna for any problems with this His mobile number is on the Parent Confraternity information sheet Rugby League Fundraising

Game Date Series No Home Team Opposition Prize

1 110311 968549 Broncos 4

Cowboys 10

$150

3 250311 969534 Gold Coast

3

Broncos

11

$150

5 080411 970031 Cowboys 4

Titans 2

$150

7 220411 970034 Tigers 7

Broncos 5

$150

8 290411 970039 Broncos

6

Bulldogs

4

$150

9 060511 970531 Australia 1

New Zealand 2

$400

10 130511 971031 Panthers 13

Broncos 7

$150

11 200511 962623 Raiders

4

Bulldogs

3

$150

13 270511 962626 Manly 5

Broncos 13

$150

14 030611 963123 Sharks 11

Broncos 2

$150

15 100611 963625 St George

2

Titans

4

$150

Important Dates June 27 QISSN (Netball) and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival July 22 St Patrickrsquos College Athletics Carnival

William Cassells - VET Coordinator

Year 11 work placement is now under way with 60 students commencing the first of four placements scheduled for their time at St Patrickrsquos The inability to secure placements within our set time guidelines has been an issue for some students and I thank all concerned for your ongoing patience Workplaces will be contacted today to check that all is well with placements then each student will be visited on site during next week I recently had the pleasure of presenting Brendan Stelmach of Year 11 with his Defence Technical Scholarship during the college Assembly Brendanrsquos responses to a set of research tasks as well as demonstrating his knowledge of trades within the Australian Defence Force were judged against over 2000 entries from across Australia His scholarship provides a sum of $2 000 for 2011 as an incentive to continue with his schooling placing special emphasis his Maths and Trade studies

~ 6 ~

Tracey McLeod - Pastoral Coordinator

Year 12 Formal The Year 12 Formal will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday July 30 The theme for the evening is ldquoA Night in an Enchanted Gardenrdquo To assist with theme decorations on the night we are asking for donations of artificial flowers No flower is too old or too ugly If you are able to help with the supply of flowers could you please drop these at the St Patrickrsquos College office for Mrs McLeod Tickets for the formal will be available for purchase from Tuesday 14 June until Thursday 14 July at St Patrickrsquos College office cost is $9500 Price includes a two course buffet dinner on the night No tickets will be sold after 14 July due to MECC catering restrictions Any student with special dietary requirements is asked to contact Mrs McLeod by 14 July The formal begins with a family function at 645 pm and will end at 1130 pm students will not be permitted to leave before this time Booking times for the official photographer are available in five minute time slots from 330 pm on the day of the formal These bookings can only be made through Mrs McLeod after receipt of a $10 deposit A flyer containing information about the formal and a brochure from the official photographer were given to all year 12 students last week

Physics in Motion - Dorota Cook Physics teacher

Physics in Motion is a state-wide program aimed at informing and educating Physics students about the effects and impacts that motion has on our daily lives On 17 May St Patrickrsquos Year 11 Physics students were privileged to attend this unique event which was held at the Mackay Showgrounds The day involved theory sessions which were followed by practical demonstrations Students were able to experience first-hand the forces when accelerating braking and turning sharply in a car The day was very enjoyable and all students felt they had benefited from the experience We thank the teachers who organised the excursion and congratulate the St Patrickrsquos students for their great behaviour

DIGNITY OF LIFE EVENING Questions and Answers with

Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini amp Dr Mary Walsh

Topics

Bioethics Caring for people who are sick or dying Donating organs and tissues Man and woman he made them Motherhood and technology Protecting human life and dignity

Saturday 25th June 700 pm

ST JOSEPHrsquoS PARISH CENTRE 21 Grendon Street North Mackay

BYO Plate

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 5 ~

The 1st XV showed more discipline in the second half by stringing more phases together giving Kelton Dorante the opportunity to score two barnstorming tries MCC hit back to lead the game 24 to 19 with minutes remaining In the dying minutes through continued effort and outstanding footwork Alex Jokovich scored a fantastic try followed by a sterling conversion leaving St Patrsquos as victors 26 to 24 Exceptional efforts included Captain Eamon Kelly Josh Ingram James McCann Victor de Nysschen and Keiran OrsquoDwyer St Patrsquos will compete in the Grand Final this Friday beginning 630 pm at Quarry Hill all supporters are welcome for a great night of Rugby Union Rugby Union Grand Final Congratulations to both Mr Casey and Mr Smith who have guided the St Patrsquos First XV into the Mackay Schoolboys Rugby Union grand final This game will be played on Friday night at 630 pm at Quarry Hill and the team would appreciate some support from the St Patrsquos Community Rugby League (Mr Kevin Blakey) For all Rugby League Confraternity players all training in the lead up to the carnival must be attended in the exam block as you will be replaced if this does not happen Please pay particular attention to your training schedule that was handed to you with your congratulations letter If you do not train you do not go away Contact Maurie Fatnowna for any problems with this His mobile number is on the Parent Confraternity information sheet Rugby League Fundraising

Game Date Series No Home Team Opposition Prize

1 110311 968549 Broncos 4

Cowboys 10

$150

3 250311 969534 Gold Coast

3

Broncos

11

$150

5 080411 970031 Cowboys 4

Titans 2

$150

7 220411 970034 Tigers 7

Broncos 5

$150

8 290411 970039 Broncos

6

Bulldogs

4

$150

9 060511 970531 Australia 1

New Zealand 2

$400

10 130511 971031 Panthers 13

Broncos 7

$150

11 200511 962623 Raiders

4

Bulldogs

3

$150

13 270511 962626 Manly 5

Broncos 13

$150

14 030611 963123 Sharks 11

Broncos 2

$150

15 100611 963625 St George

2

Titans

4

$150

Important Dates June 27 QISSN (Netball) and Confraternity Shield (Rugby League) Carnival July 22 St Patrickrsquos College Athletics Carnival

William Cassells - VET Coordinator

Year 11 work placement is now under way with 60 students commencing the first of four placements scheduled for their time at St Patrickrsquos The inability to secure placements within our set time guidelines has been an issue for some students and I thank all concerned for your ongoing patience Workplaces will be contacted today to check that all is well with placements then each student will be visited on site during next week I recently had the pleasure of presenting Brendan Stelmach of Year 11 with his Defence Technical Scholarship during the college Assembly Brendanrsquos responses to a set of research tasks as well as demonstrating his knowledge of trades within the Australian Defence Force were judged against over 2000 entries from across Australia His scholarship provides a sum of $2 000 for 2011 as an incentive to continue with his schooling placing special emphasis his Maths and Trade studies

~ 6 ~

Tracey McLeod - Pastoral Coordinator

Year 12 Formal The Year 12 Formal will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday July 30 The theme for the evening is ldquoA Night in an Enchanted Gardenrdquo To assist with theme decorations on the night we are asking for donations of artificial flowers No flower is too old or too ugly If you are able to help with the supply of flowers could you please drop these at the St Patrickrsquos College office for Mrs McLeod Tickets for the formal will be available for purchase from Tuesday 14 June until Thursday 14 July at St Patrickrsquos College office cost is $9500 Price includes a two course buffet dinner on the night No tickets will be sold after 14 July due to MECC catering restrictions Any student with special dietary requirements is asked to contact Mrs McLeod by 14 July The formal begins with a family function at 645 pm and will end at 1130 pm students will not be permitted to leave before this time Booking times for the official photographer are available in five minute time slots from 330 pm on the day of the formal These bookings can only be made through Mrs McLeod after receipt of a $10 deposit A flyer containing information about the formal and a brochure from the official photographer were given to all year 12 students last week

Physics in Motion - Dorota Cook Physics teacher

Physics in Motion is a state-wide program aimed at informing and educating Physics students about the effects and impacts that motion has on our daily lives On 17 May St Patrickrsquos Year 11 Physics students were privileged to attend this unique event which was held at the Mackay Showgrounds The day involved theory sessions which were followed by practical demonstrations Students were able to experience first-hand the forces when accelerating braking and turning sharply in a car The day was very enjoyable and all students felt they had benefited from the experience We thank the teachers who organised the excursion and congratulate the St Patrickrsquos students for their great behaviour

DIGNITY OF LIFE EVENING Questions and Answers with

Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini amp Dr Mary Walsh

Topics

Bioethics Caring for people who are sick or dying Donating organs and tissues Man and woman he made them Motherhood and technology Protecting human life and dignity

Saturday 25th June 700 pm

ST JOSEPHrsquoS PARISH CENTRE 21 Grendon Street North Mackay

BYO Plate

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 6 ~

Tracey McLeod - Pastoral Coordinator

Year 12 Formal The Year 12 Formal will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre on Saturday July 30 The theme for the evening is ldquoA Night in an Enchanted Gardenrdquo To assist with theme decorations on the night we are asking for donations of artificial flowers No flower is too old or too ugly If you are able to help with the supply of flowers could you please drop these at the St Patrickrsquos College office for Mrs McLeod Tickets for the formal will be available for purchase from Tuesday 14 June until Thursday 14 July at St Patrickrsquos College office cost is $9500 Price includes a two course buffet dinner on the night No tickets will be sold after 14 July due to MECC catering restrictions Any student with special dietary requirements is asked to contact Mrs McLeod by 14 July The formal begins with a family function at 645 pm and will end at 1130 pm students will not be permitted to leave before this time Booking times for the official photographer are available in five minute time slots from 330 pm on the day of the formal These bookings can only be made through Mrs McLeod after receipt of a $10 deposit A flyer containing information about the formal and a brochure from the official photographer were given to all year 12 students last week

Physics in Motion - Dorota Cook Physics teacher

Physics in Motion is a state-wide program aimed at informing and educating Physics students about the effects and impacts that motion has on our daily lives On 17 May St Patrickrsquos Year 11 Physics students were privileged to attend this unique event which was held at the Mackay Showgrounds The day involved theory sessions which were followed by practical demonstrations Students were able to experience first-hand the forces when accelerating braking and turning sharply in a car The day was very enjoyable and all students felt they had benefited from the experience We thank the teachers who organised the excursion and congratulate the St Patrickrsquos students for their great behaviour

DIGNITY OF LIFE EVENING Questions and Answers with

Dr Nicholas Tonti-Filippini amp Dr Mary Walsh

Topics

Bioethics Caring for people who are sick or dying Donating organs and tissues Man and woman he made them Motherhood and technology Protecting human life and dignity

Saturday 25th June 700 pm

ST JOSEPHrsquoS PARISH CENTRE 21 Grendon Street North Mackay

BYO Plate

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 7 ~

Dear colleagues

Today marks the first day of a new and exciting chapter in Queensland Education

From 2015 Year 7 will become the first year of high school

This change is part of a 10-year journey of educational reform and follows the learning or earning reforms for senior students the commitment to provide every Queensland child with a kindergarten place by 2014 and the enormously successful introduction of a Prep year in 2007 As a consequence of Prep in 2008 the Year 1 entry age was raised by six months bringing Queensland into line with other states

By 2015 more than half the children in Year 7 will turn 13 and be in their eighth year of schooling Thirteen year olds are more independent They are ready for the challenges and depth of learning that high school can provide

Year 7 students in the majority of Australian states and territories have enjoyed the benefit of specialist facilities and teachers in a high school setting for decades

It is also important to note that Australia is about to embark on the biggest educational reform since federation With the introduction of the new Australian Curriculum in English maths and science in 2012 year 7 students in most other states and territories will be getting the essential specialist teaching and facility support available in a high school setting Our Government will not allow Queensland children to be left behind

We are managing this important change to our education system with exceptional care The transition will be backed by a comprehensive package of support measures for students and teachers

And to make sure we are ready to go statewide in 2015 we will pilot Year 7 in up to 20 state high schools across QueenslandTo ensure a smooth transition our Government has also planned a comprehensive package of measures backed by significant financial resources for state Catholic and independent schools This will ensure classrooms and other learning environments are the best they can be and will give students the learning opportunities they need

State school teachers will be supported through a comprehensive professional development program and scholarships for further qualifications Extra funding for Catholic and independent schools may also be used for professional development

The reforms have been shaped by expert advice and extensive consultation

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback or attended one of the 93 public and online forums We have listened to your views and developed a range of new initiatives to ensure the best possible education for our children

See the Premier and Minister making the announcement on YouTube

We invite you to read more about these reforms on the Queensland Governmentrsquos website at wwwflyingstartqldgovau

Thank you again for your help and support in giving Queensland children a flying start through our strong education system

Yours sincerely Anna Bligh MP Premier of Queensland

Cameron Dick MP Minister for Education and Industrial Relations

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said

~ 8 ~

Media Statement from Miss Leesa Jeffcoat Director - Diocesan Catholic Education

Catholic Education

Catholic Sector Welcomes Decision on Year 7 Move

Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Director Miss Leesa Jeffcoat has welcomed

todayrsquos announcement by the Premier of Queensland Hon Anna Bligh that Year 7 will

become part of secondary school in Queensland from 2015

ldquoThe move first suggested as part of the Flying Start for Queensland Children discussion paper

by the Queensland Government will be educationally beneficial for our children and needs to

be made if Queensland is to maintain a world class education systemrdquo she said

ldquoThe move will more closely align Queensland school structures with the Australian curriculum

which Catholic schools in the Diocese are implementing from 2012 and will better enable

teachers to deliver the specialist programs required by students of this age

ldquoSince the introduction of the Prep Year students moving into Year 7 will be up to a year

older and ready to be challenged further by the subjects that they study

ldquoI believe parents will also welcome todayrsquos announcement as it now gives them a firm

timeframe for clarifying secondary school options for their childrenrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said the Catholic sector was in the final stages of discussions with the Queensland

State government and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission about the funding that

would be available to assist Catholic schools in making the transition

ldquoThis transition will be a major undertaking educationally and in terms of staffing and facilities

for our Catholic schoolsrdquo she said

ldquoProjections indicate that more than 1500 additional students will need to be accommodated

at the Diocesersquos 8 Catholic secondary colleges from 2015

ldquoWe recognise that the State budgetary situation has been tightened by recent natural disasters

in Queensland and that we will not get all the funding we are seeking However we fully

appreciate that education is seen as a major policy area and priority for the Queensland State

Government and we remain positive regarding ongoing productive discussions which recognise

the contribution that Catholic education makes to the education of young people in our state

ldquoCatholic schools educate almost 1 in 5 Queensland children and as such it is important that

Catholic Education work in close collaboration with the State Government as we proceed with

the move in this timeframe and to play our part in delivering a world class education system

for Queenslandrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said while Catholic primary schools would be affected to varying degrees any

impacts of the transition on them would be carefully monitored

ldquoIn particular we are closely monitoring the impact of this State Government decision on the

students attending Catholic primary schools in country areas where there is no local access to a

Catholic secondary education

ldquoWhile boarding school is an option for some families further investigation about the

possibility of some flexibility of arrangements in rural areas is a priority for many families and

also for Catholic Educationrdquo

Miss Jeffcoat said she was pleased that the Premier had indicated that a task force would be

established specifically to look at the implications for boarding schools and students

She said negotiations with the State government around funding were continuing in good faith

and being conducted within the same framework of needs calculations as for State schools

ldquoI am confident that as with the roll-out of the Prep Year in recent years the Catholic sector

can work positively in partnership with the State government to successfully deliver this

significant reform to our education systemrdquo Leesa Jeffcoat said