Verbis - Term 2, Edition 1 2024 Verbis - Term 2, Edition 1 2024
24 April 2024
Year of Courage - Leading with Courage
From our College Leadership Team
Principal - Mrs Maree Trims
I hope the recent term break provided families with a chance to rest and reconnect. Holidays offer a much-needed pause from schoolwork, giving students and staff the chance to recharge mentally and physically. This break can improve overall wellbeing by lowering stress and fostering a healthier work-life balance.
Increase your wellbeing in just 2 hours per week
I recently read an article published by the International Coalition of Girls' Schools addressing the growing concern about young people spending excessive time on devices and too little time outdoors. Spending time in nature is not only beneficial for society as a whole but particularly crucial for adolescents. Researchers have delved into the advantages of outdoor exposure and found that dedicating 120 minutes per week to nature can significantly enhance health and wellbeing (White et al., 2019). However, with busy schedules, many believe it's impossible to carve out two hours.
Interestingly, these two hours don’t have to be consecutive but can be spread out throughout the week. What’s essential is intentional engagement with nature. This can take various forms, whether passively soaking in a natural setting or actively participating in nature-related activities. Simple acts like sitting in the park, walking to transportation, or having lunch outside can all count. And, of course, taking a stroll in the woods offers immense benefits.
The Japanese practice of forest bathing, known as Shinrin-yoku, underscores the long-standing recognition of the health advantages of immersing oneself in nature. Whether it's spending time in a park or forest, listening to birdsong, or observing sunlight filtering through trees, all contribute to the practice of forest bathing.
Therefore, I strongly encourage you to incorporate intentional outdoor time into your weekly routine to bolster your health and wellbeing.
Reference:
International Coalition of Girls Schools. (2024, April 18). Improve productivity and wellbeing in just 120 minutes each week. eBrief (5).
White, M. P., Alcock, I., Grellier, J., Wheeler, B. W., Hartig, T., Warber, S. L., Bone, A., Depledge, M. H., & Fleming, L. E. (2019). Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Nature Scientific Reports, 9(7730), 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-019-44097-3
Newsies Junior Musical
Congratulations to the following Year 8 students - Claire M, Olivia P, Ivy K and Hannah M (Year 7) who performed in the St Patrick’s College production of Newsies Junior last weekend. The performance was excellent, and the girls truly shone on stage.
National Athletics Championships
Congratulations to Rose A, Mia N, Ashley C, Sophia K and Romy V who competed at the National Athletics Championships last week. There were many personal best times and the competition was tough. Rose received silver medals in the U18 400m and 800m, earning a place in the Australian team to compete in the Oceania Championships in Fiji in June.
National Swimming Championships
Congratulations to all the students who competed at the National Swimming Championships last week. There were many outstanding performances. A special mention to Ruby C and Maddison A who will swim at the Australian Swimming Trials in June which doubles as the sole selection meet for the Paris Olympics.
ANZAC Day
Students and parents are welcome to attend the Clayfield-Toombul RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day Service, to be held on Thursday 25 April. Students participating in the march are to meet the supervising teachers at the corner of Park Ave and Kalinga Street Wooloowin at 6.45am.
I look forward to meeting with many staff and students across the various events we have on offer this term.
Mrs Maree Trims
Principal
Deputy Principal - Studies, Mrs Lara Morgan
Parent Teacher Student Interviews
As per communication emailed to parents on 15 April, Student-Parent-Teacher Interviews will occur on Monday 29 April and Thursday 2 May.
The purpose of the interviews is for students and parents to hear the feedback provided by teachers on the learning that occurred during Term 1. Please encourage and ensure your child attends the meeting, dressed in their College uniform.
Student-Parent-Teacher Interviews are not compulsory; however, they are highly recommended to initiate and continue a partnership for 2024 to support your child’s learning. Topics of conversation may include:
- strategies identified to support your child’s learning;
- your child’s learning progress in the classroom, and set tasks;
- feedback on drafting or assessment; and
- general learning behaviours and attitudes.
Our general advice is to prepare for your interview thinking about what you might want to discuss with teachers, as well as questions to assist your child’s progress.
Parents who were unable to book a meeting can email their child’s teacher directly.
I acknowledge that our staff are giving up two evenings, both until 8.30pm, to prioritise working in partnership with families for students to achieve their full potential. I thank our teaching staff for their diligence and resourcefulness in providing this opportunity to discuss your child’s learning progress in their classrooms.
Acting Assistant Principal - Mission, Mrs Lorraine Specogna
This week marks the 240th anniversary of Nano Nagle's passing on 26 April 1784. Nano's legacy isn't confined to the annals of history; her vision remains as pertinent today as it was in her era. For us, as Presentation people, it's a significant moment to pause and express gratitude for Nano's life and her enduring inspiration. She was a steadfast advocate for social change and compassionate care, driven by an unwavering belief that she was divinely called to serve the poor. “Nano left no stone unturned.” Nano’s ministry was centred on “spending herself for the poor” as she walked the laneways of Cork. She understood that alleviating poverty was a daily mission, exemplifying determination, commitment, and profound faith in tending to both the physical and spiritual needs of the marginalised.
In a letter to Miss Fitzsimons in 1769, Nano expressed her broader aspirations: "My schools are beginning to be of service to a great many parts of the world – this is a place of such trade – they are heard of, and my views are not for one object alone. If I could be of any service in saving souls in any part of the globe, I would willingly do all in my power." This legacy resonates through Presentation schools and ministries today. Presentation people embody resilience, facing challenges with courage and bringing hope to the oppressed while inspiring compassionate action for those in need.
Let us reflect on how Nano's life provides us with a blueprint for living out her values as we endeavour to carry our lanterns and "Love your neighbour as yourself" (Matthew 22:39).
- Take the time to actively listen to the experiences and needs of marginalised individuals. Understanding their perspectives can inform targeted efforts to address their specific challenges.
- Engage in community-building endeavours aimed at empowering marginalised communities. This may involve supporting community centres, organising events, or contributing to neighbourhood improvement projects.
- Educate yourself about the issues confronting marginalised groups, be it poverty, discrimination, homelessness, or other forms of disadvantage. Identifying the root causes of these issues is pivotal to effectively addressing them.
Let us pray:
Creator God, champion of justice and unity, we express gratitude for the life and light of Nano and all Presentation people across the ages for the flame of compassionate love they have carried across continents throughout the years. Today, empower us to be faithful stewards of your Flame. Amen.
Primary Years News
Head of Primary - Ms Georgina Howard
Welcome to Term 2 in Primary! It has been lovely to see our Year 5 and 6 students return from their Easter break refreshed and ready for a new term of learning. This term is set to be busy and exciting, with several special events for our Primary students.
All Assessment Tasks have been published on the MySRC Calendar and the Term Overviews and Afternoon Schedule are available via the Primary Hub, accessed through the Parent Hub.
Please continue to check the News on MySRC each day for updates from the Primary Team and utilise News and the Calendar for information.
Primary Mother Daughter Evening - Submit your photos
We are looking forward to celebrating with you at our Primary Mother Daughter Evening on Friday 3 May! To assist with a special project on the night, please forward a recent Mother Daughter photo to primary@stritas.qld.edu.au
Minecraft Club
As a student-led and initiated activity, it has been a pleasure to watch Minecraft Club grow over the past few terms. With all Primary students now using the Minecraft Education iPad App, students can collaborate and share skills, techniques and ideas more easily. Minecraft Club is held each Friday and the growing number of students in attendance each week is a testament to the creative and collaborative fun that Minecraft promotes! Students used Term 1 to become familiar with and hone skills and look forward to Minecraft Challenges and inter-world collaboration in Term 2!
Primary Awards
Congratulations to students who have received a Learner Quality Award in recent weeks:
Tilly P, Michaylah T, Abigail E, Addison W, Tahlia S, Alyssa R, Arabella P, Alexandra T, Isabella A, Adeline F, Bridget O, Bridget M, Isabella B, Annie C, Hazel S, Thea T, Iris F, Anthea C, Pippa D, Rose O, Elainah D, Katriona B, Cassandra M, Isabel N, Myla H, Annabelle C, Emily W, Ellie H, Ella T, Bridie L, Remy S, Swara S, Amira C, Darcy B, Havanah G, Olivia S, Claire C, Imogen A, Thea T, Ava B
College Notices
Expression of Interest: Online Event - How do we make kids more resilient?
Expression of Interest: Online Event - How do we make kids more resilient?
Parents and guardians are invited to express their interest in attending a free online event presented by Dr Justin Coulson, Australia’s most trusted parenting expert and author.
The event, titled “Resilience: Developing strength, calm and kindness in our kids”, seeks to share the psychological secrets that build children's sense of identity, strengths, and growth mindset in order to perform better, be happier, and build resilience.
Based on Dr Justin Coulson’s best-selling book 9 Ways to a Resilient Child, this session shows parents and educators how to help their children and students cope powerfully and positively with the challenges that life throws at them.
As a College, we are seeking expressions of interest in this online event to ensure that we provide valuable opportunities that align with the needs and interests of our community. Your interest will play a crucial role in determining whether our College registers for this event. If there is significant interest, further details will be shared.
Proposed Online event details
- Answers with Dr Justin Series (Online Event for Australian Schools)
- Resilience: Developing strength, calm and kindness in our kids
- Tuesday 14 May 2024 at 7.00pm - 8.00pm AEDT
Click here to register your expression of interest to attend this online event.
MySRC Update - Parent Directory
Parents and guardians of St Rita’s College are invited to share their contact details on the Parent Directory, accessible via MySRC. Sharing your information to the Parent Directory is voluntary and requires you to opt in. By sharing your contact details, you are enabling parents and guardians of children in your child’s peer year group to view your chosen information.
Details within the Parent Directory are shared to support connection and engagement of members within our College community. This information is not to be used for direct or third party marketing, nor for the inappropriate soliciting of donations or prizes. Action will be taken for any inappropriate use of the information. View the MySRC Parent User Guide for full details on how to share your information with other parents in your child’s peer year groups.
Parent User Guide
As platform enhancements continue to be rolled out, parents and guardians are encouraged to view our MySRC Parent User Guide accessible via MySRC Parent Hub > Parent Instructions to assist you in navigating these new features.
The Parent User Guide contains information on:
- Navigating the Parent Dashboard and News Feature
- Navigating the Parent Hub
- Navigating the Primary Years Hub
- Receiving the daily MySRC News Summary Email
- Sharing your details in the Parent Directory
Enrolment Update - Withdrawal of Students
As per our Conditions of Enrolment, A full Term’s notice in writing must be given to the Principal before any student is withdrawn. The notice must be given no later than one (1) week before the end of the preceding Term. This ensures a smooth transition process for both the student and the school. If this notice is not given, parents/carers agree to pay one (1) Term’s tuition fees.
Student Drivers
All student drivers are reminded of the following expectations for their safety and the safety of our community.
- Please do not park across the driveways of our neighbours or on yellow lines. Please note when it is bin day and refrain from parking in front of bins on the foot path.
- Remember the streets surrounding the College are high traffic areas for cars and pedestrians. Please drive at 40km/hr or less. Young children are unpredictable.
- You are highly visible as a Year 11/12 student at our College and are identifiable by your number plate. Therefore, please ensure your interactions with fellow drivers, pedestrians and neighbours are always respectful and display patience.
- Student drivers are not to be transporting other students unless they have emailed the College at principal@stritas.qld.edu.au to give permission to drive with another student.
Parents and guardians are also asked to exercise caution and adhere to all traffic rules when travelling around the College.
Sport News - Mr Joshua White, Director of Sport
Cross Country
Join us for off-site training at Kalinga Park on Friday 26 May. Reserve your spot through MySRC or the College App. We extend a warm welcome to all students, whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting.
Our training sessions take place every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 6.30am on the Flats. On Mondays and Fridays, we host our run club concurrently with Cross Country activities. It's an ideal chance for newcomers to running or anyone looking to enhance their fitness level before delving into Cross Country sessions.
Cross Country Camp
Last weekend, around 30 students travelled up to the Sunshine Coast Recreation Centre located near Currimundi Lake for the annual Cross-Country Camp. The camp included a Strength & Activation session, hosted by Strength & Conditioning Coach, Maddy Clarke as well as games to encourage team bonding such as indoor Olympics, touch on the beach and a trivia contest. Students also completed two running sessions, a slow recovery jog on Saturday afternoon and Sunday, Head Cross Country Coach, Michael Hillardt surprised us with a short interval fast-paced session, where students had the opportunity to challenge and push themselves to the limit. With the hard training, we also had the privilege of trying out the new Normatec Recovery Boots! Overall, the camp was a huge success, and we can’t wait for next year!
Just a reminder that training is on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 6.30 am on the Flat with breakfast provided on Wednesdays!
Izabelle Cooper and Isabella Farkas (2024 Cross Country Captains)
Track and Field
The season commences in Week 4, marked by our Talent Identification days scheduled for Thursday 9 May and Saturday 11 May at Nudgee College. Whether you are new to Track & Field or a returning participant seeking to explore different events, these Talent ID sessions offer an excellent opportunity for experimentation. Click here for details.
Training sessions for past athletes interested in participating in Track & Field this season will also commence at the same time and venue. Training will be held on Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the remainder of Term 2. Click here for details.
Additionally, we invite students to participate in the 'Yeet Games,' designed for those curious to discover any latent talent in throwing disciplines. These events will take place during lunchtime on the Tennis Courts on Tuesday 14 May and Tuesday 21 May. Click here for details.
Football
We would love to hear from all students who play football outside of school. Click here to complete the survey.
Football Clinic
On Friday 3 May, at Lunch Break, we will be holding a Football clinic for Year 7-9 students. This is hosted by Football Queensland.
At this clinic, you will practice core skills and finish off with small-sided games. It’s a great introduction to Football.
Tennis
Term 2 kicks off with another outstanding number of students participating in either competitive or development Tennis. If you missed out on sign-up and would like to join , please reach out to Mrs Nikki Sackree.
AFL
Congratulations to our AFL Senior Schools Cup Team who played in the CaSSSA Grand Final last Wednesday. The team delivered splendid displays throughout the season, remaining unbeaten until the final.
Special mention to our Coaches Mr Ryan and Lucia Liessi for their contribution towards the AFL Program.
Our AFL Senior Schools Cup Team will continue to train as we prepare for AFL Schools Cup Gala Day which will be taking place at the end of May. We wish the team all the best in their preparations.
Netball
Winter Club Netball
The Winter Club Netball season got off to a fantastic start, despite the downpour. Our girls showcased remarkable determination and had a blast on the court. We're eagerly anticipating an exciting season ahead filled with Club Netball action. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated coaches, tireless parent managers, and enthusiastic parent supporters.
Netball Mini Gala
St Rita's College proudly hosted a mini gala day last week, welcoming a visiting New Zealand netball team and Somerville House. It marked a stellar beginning for our Vicki Wilson Cup girls as they embark on this season's journey.
Preparations for the QC Cup tournament in May are in full swing, with five Vicki Wilson Teams already deep into training and showing exceptional focus and dedication.
Primary Netball
Our Primary school netballers showcased their skills at the VW trials last Thursday. Two standout teams have been selected to represent us at the Primary School QC Cup in May and the Primary Schools Cup in Bundaberg this September. Stay tuned as we announce the teams later this week.
Touch
Season 1 BMTA is over halfway through, coming up to Round 9. All Teams have been playing some expectational Touch Football. It has been exciting to see all our teams grow and develop throughout the season.
Please keep an eye out, Season 2 nominations will be released in the coming weeks. We are looking forward to extending our team numbers and can’t wait for Season 2.
Swimming
Swimming Australia Age Nationals
Congratulations to the following students on their performances and achievements in the National Swimming Championships. Our swimmers excelled in many events with three of our students achieving Olympic Trial Qualifying times. Below is a snapshot of the Top 10 results the swimmers received, and congratulations to Rackley Swimming on finishing up as the 2nd-ranked club by results. Click here to view the full results.
Zoe C (13) |
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Ruby C (15) |
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Maddison A (15) |
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Anais J (14) |
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Evelyn H (15) |
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Sarah P (16) |
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Eliza O (15) |
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Water Polo
During the Easter Break, St Rita's was proudly represented by seven teams at the QLD State Titles. The level of play showcased was truly remarkable. Congratulations to all our participants for their outstanding efforts, and a sincere thank you goes out to the parents/guardians and coaches whose unwavering support made this competition possible.
Please see below results -
U12s St Rita’s Maroon Team - 4th
U12s St Rita’s White Team - 7th
U14s St Rita’s Maroon Team - 8th
U14s St Rita’s White Team - 16th
U16s St Rita’s / Polo Bears Maroon Team - 3rd
U18s St Rita’s/ Polo Bears Maroon Team Ice - 1st
U18s St Rita’s/ Polo Bears Maroon Team Snow - 4th
Congratulations to Emma W (Year 11) who was awarded Most Valuable Goalkeeper for the U18 age group.
Term 2 Winter Water Polo
Our skill development sessions have launched for Term 2! This is a great opportunity to improve your skills over the winter break, with specialised sessions to improve both attack and defense skills. If you are interested in being included in a squad, please reach out to the Water Polo team – waterpolo@stritas.qld.edu.au and who can assist in adding you to the sessions.
CaSSSA Sport
CaSSSA Term 3 Sport Registrations & Trials Information
A reminder for students interested in playing Term 3 CaSSSA Sport - the trial registration form is now open online.
The available CaSSSA Sports in Term 3 are as follows:
Touch Football: Senior (Years 11-12), Inters (Years 9-10)
Football (Soccer): Senior (Years 10-12), Junior (Years 7-9), Open (Years 7-12)
Basketball: Senior (Years 11-12), Junior (Years 7-8), Open (Years 7-12)
We are hopeful of entering an Open Basketball and Open Football team, which will consist of our strongest athletes, across all year levels (Year 7 – 12) in both sports.
Information on a new Registration method will be made available next week.
Upcoming Events and Activities
Upcoming Dates to Note
- Thursday 25 April: ANZAC Day - Public Holiday
- Thursday 25 April: ANZAC Day Service, Kalinga Park
- Friday 26 April: Year 11 Retreat
- Monday 29 April: Year 9 Shake & Stir
- Monday 29 April: Parent Teacher Student Interviews
- Tuesday 30 April: Collins Colour Day
- Tuesday 30 April: Xaverian & Hogan Community Mass
- Wednesday 1 May: Music Support Group Meeting
- Thursday 2 May: Parent Teacher Student Interviews
- Friday 3 May: Primary Mother and Daughter Evening
- Monday 6 May: Labour Day - Public Holiday
- Tuesday 7 May: College Musical Preview
- Thursday 9 - Saturday 11 May: College Musical
- Saturday 18 May: Mother and Daughter Dinner
- Monday 20 May: Term 2 Cocurricular Photos
- Tuesday 21 May: P&F Meeting
- Tuesday 21 May: Bands Concert
- Thursday 23 May: CaSSSA Cross Country
- Friday 24 May: St Rita's Day & House Heroics
- Saturday 25 May: Memorial Mass
- Sunday 26 May: College Walkout
- Tuesday 28 May: Strings Concert
Xaverian & Hogan Community Mass - Tuesday 30 April
Parents & Guardians are invited to join us for our Xaverian and Hogan House Community Mass on Tuesday 30 April at 8.00am. The mass will be held in the College Chapel
College Musical Preview - Tuesday 7 May
Join us for a magical journey to the enchanting world of Cinderella as our talented performers and musicians bring this timeless classic to life for a special preview before opening night! Click here to get your tickets today!
Please note that programs are not available for the Preview show. This Preview may also include pauses during the production if required by the Director.
Year 7-12 Mother and Daughter Dinner - Less than 4 weeks to go!
Less than four weeks to go for our annual Mother and Daughter Dinner! A fabulous evening of dinner and dancing awaits our Years 7-12 students and their Mums. Click here to get your tickets today!
Bands Concert - Tuesday 21 May
Join us for an unforgettable evening at our Bands Concert on Tuesday 21 May. Experience the incredible talents of our Big Band, Jazz Ensemble, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, and Prelude Winds. Don't miss out on this spectacular showcase of musical excellence
Memorial Mass - Saturday 25 May
Mrs Maree Trims, Principal and the SRC Alumnae Committee invite all members of our College community to our 2024 Memorial Mass.
Memorial Mass and Morning Tea
Saturday 25 May 2024, 10.00am
St Rita's College Chapel
Our Memorial Mass honours the lives of students, alumnae, staff and Presentation Sisters who have passed away and it is an opportunity to gather, remember, and celebrate those we have lost in our community over the past year.
This year, we will light candles in our hearts for Past Students of the anniversary years of 1934, 1944, 1954, 1964, 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014, and invite their classmates to commemorate with us.
Click here to register your attendance by Wednesday 15 May 2024.
Even if you are unable to attend, please record details of a beloved member of the St Rita's College community to be remembered on our Remembrance List.
College Walkout - Sunday 26 May - Parent Volunteers Required
WalkOut is a compulsory Mission and Community event for all Years 5-12 students of the College. Further details to be shared over coming weeks.
Parent Volunteers Required
An event of this magnitude is not possible without the support of a large team of volunteers who assist with roles including: set up, registration, supervision of students through checkpoints throughout the course, return to school registration and pack down logistics.
Strings Concert - Tuesday 28 May
Join us for our Strings Concert featuring our Symphony Orchestra, String Ensemble, Prelude Strings, String Sinfonia, and Guitar Ensemble. Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting melodies and harmonious rhythms.
Boutique News
Uniform Policy
The updated 2024 College Uniform Policy can be found here.
Term Time Opening Hours
- Monday - CLOSED
- Tuesday to Friday – 7.30am to 9.00am & 11.00am - 3.30pm (closed between 9.00am and 11.00am).
The Boutique is closed during school holidays throughout the year.
Online Orders
Online Orders can be made any time via the Qkr! App and collected during Boutique opening hours.
Orders received before 9.00am Tuesday-Friday will be available to collect from the Boutique from 11.00am the same day. Orders received after 9.00am will be available for collection the following business day after 11.00am.
The Boutique is staffed by Ms Laurinda Plant who can be contacted on 3860 7119 or via email at boutique@stritas.qld.edu.au.
St Rita’s Buy, Sell, Swap, Giveaway Facebook Group
Parents wishing to seek out second hand uniform and school items are encouraged to try the St Rita's Buy, Sell, Swap, Giveaway Facebook Group.
The site is parent administered and new items are being added regularly by families.
The College Boutique does not trade in second hand items.
Parents & Friends' Association
From the P&F President
The April P&F Meeting saw the commencement of the new P&F Executive Committee. Parents can view a schedule of Meeting dates and Minutes by visiting the P&F page of MySRC (also accessible via the Parent Hub)
Discussions are underway for the 2025 P&F events calendar, incorporating proposals for new and existing connection opportunities. If anyone has any suggestions for the 2025 calendar, please email them to pandf@stritas.qld.edu.au for consideration prior to the next meeting on Tuesday 21 May at 6.00pm.
We look forward to welcoming returning and new parents to P&F meetings throughout the year.
Pattie Pozzebon
P&F President
Upcoming P&F Meetings and Events
Term 2
- Friday 3 May - Primary Mother Daughter Event
- Saturday 18 May - Mother Daughter Dinner
- Tuesday 21 May - P&F Meeting
- Sunday 26 May - Walkout
- Saturday 9 June - Rita’s Longest Lunch (proudly hosted by the Music SubCommittee)
For a full list of P&F meeting dates and events please visit the Parents & Friends page of MySRC, accessible via the Parent Hub.
Community Notices
Invitation to Attend: Synodality and the Life of the Parish
You're invited to join "Synodality and the Life of the Parish" at St Ignatius Church, Toowong, on Friday May 24, 2024, from 7.30pm. Hear from keynote speaker Fr Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, S.J., and local theologians Fr Orm Rush and Assoc. Prof. Maeve Heaney. Click here for further details.
Circles of Life Queensland - 2024 Women's Forum
St Rita's community is invited to the 10th Circles of Life, 2024 Women's Forum featuring special guests like ABC weather guru Jenny Woodward and returning favourites Kelly Higgins-Devine, Kathleen Noonan, Di Fingleton, Prudence Melom, and Dr. Kellee Slater. Celebrate a decade of empowering women and supporting local charities through our raffles and event participation. Click here for further details.