Mount St Bernard College eNewsletter

Principal

Dear members of the Mount St Bernard Community,

Term two has started positively, with students having the opportunity to refine their focus on attendance, learning in the classroom and participating in a range of out of class activities. The College will continue to emphasise the attendance matters message and reinforce the importance of attending all lessons for the full duration and to be respectful of their peers' right to learn and teachers' right to teach.

Students have been made aware of the process should there be a valid reason for them not to arriving at class when the bell rings:

Sign in with a member of the Wellbeing team
Be attending a scheduled appointment
Be participating in re-engagement activities in the re-engagement room

I’d like to thank parents for your continued support in encouraging your students to make the most of classroom learning opportunities.

Parents will be alerted via daily SMS should their student miss any classes during a school day.

Behaviour

In conjunction with students actively participating in every learning activity made available to them, staff also have high expectations for student behaviour. Disrespect towards adults and the use of inappropriate language, including swearing, is not acceptable and will be addressed promptly and in consultation with parents and caregivers. We believe in fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding and will continue to reinforce high expectations with our students.

Uniform

As the Herberton weather starts to cool down, a reminder that our school uniform policy plays an integral role in promoting a sense of belonging and pride among our students. We expect all students to adhere to the uniform policy, including wearing the correct school uniform with minimal jewellery. Students are required to wear a school jumper or jacket as the milder weather sets in. Please note that casual jumpers will not be permitted as part of the school uniform.

We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that your child comes prepared for school each day and adheres to our school policies. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding these expectations, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can ensure a successful and productive term for all our students.

Term 2 Staffing Changes

The College has encountered a number of staffing changes since the end of Term 1.

Director Learning Culture and Growth

Daniel Jenkins will be stepping into the role of Director of Learning Culture and Growth, picking up additional curriculum and timetabling work. Thanks to Daniel for stepping into this new position on short notice.

Resignations:

We bid farewell to Nikki Chambers, Maria McGinnity and Julie Oswell. We extend our gratitude for their contributions to our community and wish them the very best in their future endeavours.

New Additions:

Please join me in welcoming the following individuals to our team:

Brett Kondratiew: Teacher for English/Humanities
Mary-Anne Weiss: Teacher for Food & Textile Design (part-time on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
John Nickholds: Teacher for Industrial Technology
Hazel Jenkins: Enrolment & Travel Officer (Please note the legal name for email correspondence: Nilar Myint)
Georgia Grant: Learning Support School Officer (LSSO)
Amber Grant: Learning Support School Officer (LSSO)
Bry Finch - Learning Support School Officer (LSSO)
Amber Grant- Learning Support School Officer (LSSO)
Sheila Caramihan – Boarding Supervisor
Johanne Radel-Madsen – Boarding Supervisor
Janey Crossland: Laundry Attendant

Relief Teacher Support:

We are also pleased to announce the addition of relief teacher support with the inclusion of Greg Hoare and Matthew Paterson. Their support will be invaluable during times of need, ensuring continuity in our educational delivery.

Parent Teacher Interviews

Parent Teacher interviews were conducted on Tuesday 30 April. Interviews were available in person for local families and via the phone for remote families. If you were unable to attend please email your students teachers, teacher emails are listed on Parent Portal, or phone the office on Ph: 4096 1444 to leave a message for them.

All families are encouraged to participate in this important process as it is a valuable aspect of building the partnership between school and home for your student.

If you haven’t viewed your students report, they are available online through the Parent Portal. Instructions in how to access reports in the Parent portal are in the below hyperlinks:

Schoolzine Website

Timetable Working Party Review

With numerous staff changes occurring each term, I am very aware of the impact this is having on our students as their classroom teachers and supports change. To minimise the impact of staff changes on students a timetable working party has been formed in the College to review our structures. The aim is to find a more sustainable structure that reduces the number of teacher changes each student experiences when a member of staff departs.

Right to Disconnect

The right to disconnect is an important staff wellbeing initiative that has been developed in the latest enterprise bargaining agreement. This initiative supports school staffs' right to disengage from work related issues when not at school. The College’s Local Consultative Committee are forming a school policy to address staff rights to disconnect and this will be communicated to the school community once completed. The policy will identify the timeframes where staff will be responding to correspondence. Parent/carer communication is highly valued by the College and encouraged and the right to disconnect policy will ensure there is clarity regarding staff response times.

Term 2 Strategic Focus

The College is continuing to work on achieving it’s 2024 focus on the following topics:

ENCOUNTER – strengthening our Catholic Identity and Mercy Charism and increasing the number of staff accredited to teach religious education.

FIRST NATONS PERSPECTIVES – connecting to the community and extending learning pathways for First Nations Students.

ENGAGEMENT – Multi Tiers System of Support (MTSS), improving student attendance and building teacher capacity to deliver curriculum.

CAPABILITY – building teacher capacity through professional learning, providing clarity of processes and improving facilities and resources.

Progress is being made in each dimension. Term 2 is narrowing its focus on curriculum development and teaching staff are currently being supported in their unit planning and inclusion of the High Impact Teaching Strategies and High Impact Engagement Strategies.

Anzac Day Services

ANZAC Day, April 25, is a national day of remembrance that commemorates all Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian and New Zealand service men and women who served and died in the Gallipoli Campaign during World War 1, all proceeding wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.

Thank you to the Mount St Bernard College Student Leaders and Boarding Students who represented the College in the Herberton march and commemorative ceremony.

MSB Swimming Carnival and Cross Country

Congratulations to the 2024 Swimming Carnival Champions who received their medals at the opening assembly for Term 2. It was great to recognise the incredible achievements of our swimming stars.

The 2024 Cross Country was held on Friday 26 April and even the damp Herberton rain didn’t stop our incredibly impressive distance runners from setting impressive times for the 4Km and 6 km events. Congratulations to the following age champions. We look forward to supporting you at the District Cross Country this week.

12 Years - 1st - Taylor Daley & Lincoln Shortjoe : 2nd - De'Ontae Short & Jaxon Finch :

3rd - Nyiah Sam & Silas Baira

13 Years - 1st - Zanthe Foster & Kaiden Douglas : 2nd - Jaharlah Aidan & Hakiem Gibbo :

3rd - Brianna Fitzgerald & Harrison Jonsson

14 Years - 1st - Emily Ginn & Toby Sailor : 2nd - Vera Wilson-Simpson & Jayce Donohue : 3rd - Naomi Tomsana-Sam & Thomas Turner

15 Years - 1st - Tara Bevan & Oscar Wosomo : 2nd - Zahlaila Mudd & Eugene Logan :

3rd - Yindali Sharp & Jack Jonsson

16 Years - 1st - Megan Trezise & Dekierim Schrieber : 2nd - Meena Riber & Logan Robertson : 3rd - Crystal-Lee Linnell & Kura Joseph

Open Years - 1st - Danielle Thiele & Izion Waradoo : 2nd - Micfreda Kiwat & Nathaniel Ghee : 3rd Shandrella Pilot & Limferd Lui

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Deputy Principal Residential

A Busy Start

Term 2 has seen our students undertake a range of learning activities as they prepare for their second piece of assessment for the year. To ensure our residential students have a balanced approach to life , the team of boarding supervisors has a range of activities for students to do on a regular basis. These includes rugby league for males and females, basketball for males and females, mountain bike riding, various school sports trials, Army Cadets, PCYC Emergency Services Cadets, band practice in the music room, cooking pikelets and chocolate brownies, art activities such as piñatas making, watching videos, shopping, going to the beach and doing part time work. (See pictures of Danielle - McDonalds and Lizikerah – KFC below).

Sporting Success

The following students have achieved Sporting Success by making the Peninsula Team. Each will go to state trials in the coming weeks.

Limferd Lui - Volleyball, Shadow for Rugby League
Reem Sam - Touch Football
Melinda Burns – Rugby League
Nayita Joseph – Rugby League

We wish them the very best.

Late Returning After the holidays

This coming Wednesday, the last of our remaining students will return to begin term 2. This will mean that some students have lost close to 30 percent of the school term. Unfortunately, it is the same group of students who return late. In the 6 years of year 7 to year 12, this means that these students will miss out on almost 2 years of schooling. These absences have a strong flow on effect as it is the same students who struggle with literacy and numeracy in year 11 and 12.

Please encourage your children to return to the college on time. Thank you.

Malcolm Fahey - Deputy Principal Residential

Assistant Principal Mission

Happy Easter! Yes, although Easter Sunday was a month ago, we are still in the liturgical season of Easter. This season goes for fifty days, until Pentecost Sunday which falls on 19 May this year. The word Pentecost comes from the Greek word, pentecostē, meaning “50th day”. The stories we read at Mass during this time tell of various encounters the disciples had with the resurrected Jesus. For some reason, they didn’t recognise him at first and only realised it was Jesus after he had said or done something. So, this Easter Season let us, through our words and actions, make visible the Risen Christ to all those we encounter.

Thank you to the MSB students and staff who helped commemorate ANZAC Day, both at our college and at the Herberton community service. It was wonderful to see our students participate with reverence and pride.

Thank you also to Grace Hart, Annika Feher-Holan, Aaliyah Duck and Tyler Morriss who continue to participate in the Student Voice Forum where they express their thoughts, concerns and ideas regarding their educational journey in the Diocese of Cairns.

We have a number of exciting things happening in the Mission space this Term.

Our Student Representative Council (SRC) continues to meet on a fortnightly basis. They have reviewed the new Student Behaviour Matrix and are working on how to promote this to the college.

Wednesday 19 June is Mercy Day at MSB! This day will celebrate our Irish heritage and the links we have with the Sisters of Mercy and their founder Venerable Catherine McAuley.

Once again, MSB is entering a social team in the Great Wheelbarrow Race being held on 10 – 12 May. Twelve students from Years 9 - 11 have been selected to be part of this historic event that begins in Mareeba and finishes 140 kilometres away in Chillagoe. This year our team will be fundraising for Rosies, Friends on the Street. Keep an eye out for way you can support them.

May God’s Mercy continue to shine upon us all!

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Mission

Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We are excited to share such an encouraging beginning of Term two with you. We welcome back our returning students, parents and staff from the Easter break and give a warm welcome to some new students and staff members to our community. Thanks to the dedication of our College's staff and the invaluable support of families like yours, our students have transitioned well into Term two. The Well-being team is committed to assisting in your child's positive school experience.

We understand that teenage years can present challenges, and our college’s Well-being team are ready to provide essential support for your child during this critical phase. The Wellbeing team are:

Counsellors: Sara Gorring, Kayleigh Smith

Wellbeing Officers: Michelle Davies-Griffith, Jess Mason, Jade O’Shae, Tim Tewhare

Middle Leader Wellbeing:

Years 7 – 8: Alex Hinchliffe - ahinchliff@cns.catholic.edu.au

Years 9 – 10: Covered by Emma Sheppard and Stephen Godfrey

Years 11 – 12: Doris Cuda - tcuda@cns.catholic.edu.au

Instructional Leader Wellbeing: Emma Sheppard - esheppard2@cns.catholic.edu.au

Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing: Stephen Godfrey - sgodfrey@cns.catholic.edu.au

For enquiries on your child’s wellbeing please contact the Middle Leader Wellbeing of the year that you child is in, using the email addresses provided or the College phone number 07 4096 1444.

This term we launch the MSB Student expectations matrix. This document communicates the minimum expectations of student behaviour across all College settings. Students, parents/carers and staff will use this document to ensure that all students know the minimum behavioural expectations. Copies of the MSB Student expectations matrix have been placed in all learning areas of the College, in this newsletter, the College website and social media. The MSB Student expectations matrix will be reinforced during our weekly assemblies as well as in lessons. This document has been developed in consultation with members of the community including students, parents/carers and staff. We thank you for the feedback that you have provided in the development of the MSB Student expectations matrix.

Our major focus for start of this term are.

Attending classes
Being ready to learn
Engaging in learning
Setting Goals
Staying safe online

Your continued support is invaluable, and we express our heartfelt gratitude for it. We eagerly anticipate this term to be nurturing and empowering your children, helping them make safe, respectful, and responsible choices, celebrating their achievements, and fostering a strong, supportive community.

Stephen Godfrey - Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing

MSB Student Expectations

Director Learning Culture and Growth

Term 2 has started in a positive and productive way, which suggests that the majority of students, including new students and Year 7s, have now settled into the 2024 academic year, embracing learning opportunities by adopting effective study habits and classroom routines.

Assessment calendars will be emailed to students, families and carers in week 4 and published to the Parent Portal, so all students can look ahead to their assessments and start organising their workload accordingly. In order to be successful in these assignments and exams, it is essential that students commence work early, meet the various checkpoint expectations and ask for help when required.

As the term progresses, the College will start to engage students in conversations about their subject choices for 2025, which is particularly important for those moving into the senior secondary space. Extensive planning has been undertaken by the College to ensure that we offer an exciting range of courses that will provide students with deep learning opportunities and high levels of engagement; as well as the necessary prerequisites to facilitate post-school ambitions. Ms Debby Small will begin having discussions with students about Year 11 Senior Education Training (SET) plans in the coming weeks, and I look forward to seeing that process take shape.

Education is ‘a marathon not a sprint,’ so I encourage students to demonstrate patience, resilience and grit as they work towards their goals for this term and the remainder of the year.

Daniel Jenkins - Director Learning Culture and Growth

Transition Support

YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament

The YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP) is a unique opportunity for young people to create real change in Queensland. QYP participants, known as Youth Members, are the voice of youth in their electorates, advising politicians and decision-makers across the state. They're immersed in unique educational opportunities, experience parliamentary operation first hand, mingle with members of Government and Opposition, and have their say in fiery debates on topical issues.

Congratulations to our three Senior Students who travelled to Brisbane in the April holidays for the introduction of QYP. Makala Harries-Spinnler is from Croydon representing the Traeger Electorate, Alima Pausa is from Lockhart River however grew up on the Tablelands therefore representing the Hill Electorate and Rose Mene from St Pauls Community, Moa Island, representing the Cook Electorate.

“I enjoyed my experience at the Youth Parliament and made some new friends. It was such a good, fun and exciting experience to travel to Brisbane. I learnt how Youth Parliament works. I learnt how it can give youth a way to have their say and make a change, not just for their community but for the whole of Australia. This could help my community by being able to voice problems to people in Parliament." - Makala Harries-Spinnler

“My experience was interesting. It was great to learn new skills and see Parliament for the first time. I learnt what they actually do in Parliament. I am very excited to be part of the YMCA QYP 2024 Youth Parliament and excited to see what we will accomplish this year.” - Alima Pausa

“My experience was good, it was fun and exciting travelling to a big city like Brisbane. I learnt new skills and went to Parliament House for the first time which showed me what happens there. Parliament House is so big inside and we got to sit in the chairs where they make big decisions for our country. This is very inspiring. QYP will give me the opportunity to be a voice for Torres Strait Islander people." - Rose Mene

Andrea Gower - Transition Officer

YMCA YOUTH PARLIAMENT 2024

It is always lovely to welcome the students back to the College Library and as the temperature begins to drop, we are a popular cosy spot for students to come together to read, play games and study.

Our Readers Cup teams are hard at it consuming the set books for the upcoming competition. The teams are yet to be completely finalised, however we have held 6 lunchtime reading parties in which the team members read their books with hot chocolate and snacks. We are getting ready to discuss the books as multiple team members finish the same book!

The Library has used student and staff suggestions to purchase some new books for the collection and these are beginning to land on the shelves. Some popular titles are being borrowed as soon as they have been processed and catalogued! As of the 29/04/2024 we have 37 new books on the shelves with more to come! If you have a request for a book that is not in our collection, please make a suggestion and we will see what we can do!

The Library would also like to celebrate applying for a grant, and being selected to receive a Lego package through Deadly Science. We are in the process of unpacking and setting up a lunchtime Let’s Go Lego Club, so watch this space for all the Lego creations and fun! The Library would like to thank Deadly Science for their generous investment in our MSB creators!

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Library News Term 2 Week 3

Communications & Community Engagement

ENROL NOW FOR 2025 & 2026

~ Enrolment applications for Round 2 close on 14 June 2024

~ Scholarship applications for 2025 are available at www.msb.qld.edu.au/scholarships/

~ Apply online now at https://www.msb.qld.edu.au/apply-online-now/

To enquire, book a tour or require more information visit our website at www.msb.qld.edu.au , Email - msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au or

PH: 40 961 485

TERM 2 FEES

Term 2 Fees have been issued, please check your emails. If you have any accounts queries please contact Sharon Negri - Finance Team Leader either by Email: snegri@cns.catholic.edu.au or Ph: 07 4096 1586.

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Lochlan Dalgety has proven to be a talented Touch football sportstar and referee. Lochlan was selected for the Pirates Cairns Representative team in Cairns and played at events over the school holidays.

During this event he was selected to attend the upcoming Cyclones Team Muster, a 2 day training in Townsville on 11 & 12 May. Lochlan is hoping to be selected into the FNQ Cyclone team to go on and represent FNQ against other state teams.

Good luck Lochlan, we look forward to watching your sporting career grow.

SWIMMING CARNIVAL

In the last week of term 1 we held our Annual Swimming Carnival at the Atherton Pool. A fun day of friendship, fun and sporting participation made for a great event at term end. Congratulations to the following age champions. House RUSH won the day, well done!!

12 Years Age Champions - Jake Daley & Zena Belkessa

13 Years Age Champions - Jaharlah Aidan & Harrison Jonsson

14 Years Age Champions - Callem Franklin & Emily Ginn

15 Years Age Champions - Zahlaila Mudd & Eugene Logan

16 Years Age Champions - Jai Logan & Meena Riber

Open Years Age Champions - Alima Pausa & Limferd Lui

MSB CROSS COUNTRY

Well done to all our students who participated in last Friday's Cross Country. Congratulations to the following students who placed in this event.

12 Years - 1st - Taylor Daley & Lincoln Shortjoe : 2nd - De'Ontae Short & Jaxon Finch :3rd - Nyiah Sam & Silas Baira

13 Years - 1st - Zanthe Foster & Kaiden Douglas : 2nd - Jaharlah Aidan & Hakiem Gibbo :3rd - Brianna Fitzgerald & Harrison Jonsson

14 Years - 1st - Emily Ginn & Toby Sailor : 2nd - Vera Wilson-Simpson & Jayce Donohue : 3rd - Naomi Tomsana-Sam & Thomas Turner

15 Years - 1st - Tara Bevan & Oscar Wosomo : 2nd - Zahlaila Mudd & Eugene Logan :3rd - Yindali Sharp & Jack Jonsson

16 Years - 1st - Megan Trezise & Dekierim Schrieber : 2nd - Meena Riber & Logan Robertson : 3rd - Crystal-Lee Linnell & Kura Joseph

Open Years - 1st - Danielle Thiele & Izion Waradoo : 2nd - Micfreda Kiwat & Nathaniel Ghee : 3rd Shandrella Pilot & Limferd Lui

MSB Cross Country Race starts reels - On your mark, get set, GO!!!

TABLELANDS DISTRICT TOUCH FOOTBALL, AFL & RUGBY LEAGUE

Touch Football - Congratulations to An-toni Savage, Lochlan Dalgety, Kura Joseph,Nayita Joseph, Keziah Warria, Callem Franklin, Kura David & Reem Sam for selection in the Tablelands District Touch Football teams, and Binzella Anson as a shadow player. These students represented the Tablelands District at the Peninsula Championships in Cairns on Friday 26 April. Congratulations on your sporting achievements!

Rugby League - Congratulations to Jake Daley for his selection in the Tablelands District Team for 11 - 12 years Rugby League. Well done Jake!

A special mention for Nayita Joseph, Megan Trezise & Melinda Burns who have been selected for the Peninsula Team for Rugby League in their respective age groups. Well done ladies!

AFL - Congratulations to Cliffy Attwood for his selection in the Tablelands District Team for AFL. Well done Cliffy!

2024 Peninsula Touch Football Trials

Last Friday, 26 April, students chose an activity to enjoy together. Volleyball, Basketball or the Library were the options. Touch football was unable to proceed due to heavy rain. Enjoy the photos!

Term 2 Week 2 Afternoon Activities

Welcome back to Term 2,

I hope that everyone had a restful break and is ready to jump into this term.

Year 7 and 8 students will be changing their electives this term. I have seen many excited faces around the College as they start their new electives including; Visual Arts, Media Arts, Food and Technology, Industrial Technology, Music, Drama and Engineering.

There are some exciting units being studied by students this term in their key learning areas. I have included a snap shot below for you.

Year 7

English	Exploring Graphic Novels
Math	Algebra
Science	Biology: Classifying Animals
Humanities	Geography: Liveability

Year 8

English	Australian Poetry
Math	Algebra
Science	Biology: Living Systems
Humanities	History; The Vikings Geography; Landscapes

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s curriculum needs, please don’t hesitate to contact me at the College or via email kwaugh@cns.catholic.edu.au.

I look forward to continuing to work alongside you on your child’s learning journey.

Have a great day!

Kieren Waugh - Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment and Reporting 7/8 (C.P.A.R)

Years 11 & 12 CPAR

Senior students are off to a great start, busy building skills for their Term 2 assessments. Do keep an eye out for the Senior assessment calendar, which will be sent out via email in the next couple of weeks.

Here is what our Seniors have been up to recently in a range of subjects:

In Year 11 & 12 Design, students are working on a Human Centered Design Project. They are conducting interviews with stakeholders invested in MSB's Got Talent night at school. Students create multiple ideas for a Product, a Service or an Environment. They consider the pros and cons of each design to conduct a process of synthesizing their final idea. They then complete a prototype and develop a pitch for stakeholders explaining their decisions made. Miss Tray Sexton

In Year 11 & 12 Visual Arts in Practice, students are working on a unit called Sculpture Culture. Sculpture Culture explores 3D artworks and public art. Students must consider the guidelines associated with grant applications such as; the Regional Arts Development Fund or Arts Queensland.They must consider community consultation and engagement in the creation of a sculptural piece. They are currently looking at the 'Big Things' around Australia ie; Big Pineapple, Big Banana, Big Marlin and the Big Sheep. We look forward to seeing what sculpture will represent your community! Miss Tray Sexton

Senior Business students are working on Financial literacy skills.

Senior English students have been watching TED talks and discussing a range of social issues in preparation for their spoken presentation assessment.

Senior Drama students have completed their performance assessment and are taking on the challenge of devising their own theatre productions related to contemporary social issues.

Senior Industrial Tech are working on their Metal sheet work - toolbox projects.

Senior Agriculture students have been sorting out their garden beds and surrounds – a bit overgrown from all the rain over the holidays! They have also been recycling pallets to make outdoor stores for soil, sand and other raw materials.

Senior Geography class is busy preparing for their field trip to Saltwater Creek in Cairns. They will be investigating water quality and making recommendations about how the urban environment can be improved.

More from the other subjects in the next edition!

Saffron Belkessa-Wood - Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment and Reporting 11/12 (C.P.A.R)

VET & Careers

University of Qld is running some InspireU Courses – Health Science Camp

The InspireU Health Science Camp provides an opportunity for Year 11 and 12 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across the country to participate in a week-long residential camp. The camp is perfect for the students who are planning to attend university and would like the opportunity to explore what degree to study and to build their knowledge about university. The program exposes students to a wide range of career and study options available to them at UQ.

Students are given a holistic experience of university life which is delivered in collaboration with the current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students, UQ’s faculties and industry partners. Students will get to attend jammed packed, engaging sessions which will include a hands-on component.

All reasonable costs for the camp including all travel, flights, accommodation, meals and excursions are paid for, by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit (ATSISU).

If you are interested Please see Miss Debby Small to complete an application.

JCU Engineering Futures Camp

A unique opportunity for academic students to up their STEM game.

JCU is excited to present Engineering Futures. This five-day free immersive program offers a unique opportunity for student in Years 10, 11 and 12 to explore the latest technologies, discover careers in STEM and experience University life.

DATE: Monday 1 July – Saturday 6 July 2024

LOCATION: JCU Townsville

Applications Close on Sunday 19^th May 2024

JCU Heroes Program

The JCU Heroes programs have been designed to create a realistic experience of ‘a day in the life' of your chosen field. Students from all over North Queensland are offered the opportunity to attend these programs throughout the school year to gain practical skills and real career experience. To help with your future goals, JCU Advisors are always on hand to provide information about JCU and the courses of interest to you.

JCU’s Heroes programs are open to all year 11 and 12 students and give you behind the scenes access into what your dream career may look like. JCU works with our industry partners including the Mater Hospital, North West Hospital and Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Queensland Country Bank and the North Queensland Cowboys to give you a chance to meet the experts and experience a day in their lives.

Heroes in Health

This two-day program will give you a sneak peek of what it’s really like to be in a healthcare career. You will go behind the scenes at your local hospital, experiencing interactive activities such as suturing and wound care, CPR, vital signs, Webster packs and how to birth a baby with opportunities to speak directly with health professionals including doctors, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and pharmacists.

Applications Close: 10^th May 2024

Dates: 4^th and 5^th June 2024

Location: JCU Cairns

Heroes in Science

Learn from industry experts and experience how scientific knowledge can improve the quality of life at many different levels. From this full-day program, you’ll gain unique insights into a career in science. You’ll go from the lab to in-field where you'll experience how science informs decisions on conservation, climate change, urban growth and many other areas that affect not only global issues, but our everyday lives.

Applications Close: 10^th May 2024

Dates: 6^th June 2024

Location: JCU Cairns

Tableland University Centre $5000 Grant

The Tableland University Centre, at VPG Atherton, with the support from the Kaban Green Power Hub Community Benefit Fund, is launching the Kaban Education Scholarship (KES) program. This collaboration aims to empower school leavers on their journey towards higher education and vocational training.

What’s Available:

2 x $5000 education scholarships
One for a university student and one for a vocational/trade student

Applications Due: 30^th June 2024.

Debby Small - VET & Careers Middle Leader

Indigenous Liaison Officer

MSB's Indigenous Liaison Officers (ILO) have been working alongside Jennifer King, Consultant First Nations Education - Cairns Catholic Education Services, once a week to support students with their "Stay Strong Plan" and sharing of information about their cultural background

Empowering students to move forward and achieve a good education, the ILO cultural space continues to be busy place for students, linking students into cultural programs, accessing career pathways, Leadership programs, celebrating CLOSE THE GAP DAY , and also working with ILO's to participate in NAIDOC Day & Reconciliation events.

Debbie Zysk - Indigenous Liaison Officer

Diversity

Enhancing Literacy and Personalised Learning

Our literacy intervention program, Macqlit, continues to make remarkable strides in supporting students' reading and comprehension skills. Through tailored instruction and targeted interventions, students are showing excellent progress, bolstering their confidence and enthusiasm for learning. Moreover, we're thrilled to announce the inauguration of a new dedicated space for Macqlit lessons. Students have been actively involved in designing and decorating this space, ensuring it's not only functional but also welcoming and inviting. This collaborative effort underscores our commitment to creating inclusive learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of all our students.

In addition to our focus on literacy, we've been diligently reviewing Personalised Learning Plans (PLP's) to ensure they accurately reflect each student's strengths, challenges, and goals. As we prioritise individualised learning experiences, it's essential to engage parents as partners in this process. In the first half of the term, parents will be contacted to discuss and approve the reviewed PLP's, fostering open communication and collaboration between home and school. By aligning our efforts with the unique needs of each student and involving parents in the decision-making process, we're fostering a supportive community where every learner can thrive.

Rachel Brown

Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

Term 2 of 2024 has officially kicked off, marking the start of new beginnings and opportunities within our College community. With the arrival of fresh faces, we're granted the chance to extend warm greetings and foster connections. Throughout the upcoming term, it's important that we prioritise respect in all our interactions.

Respect in a school setting goes beyond mere politeness; it includes acknowledging the value and dignity of every individual. This means actively listening to others, considering their perspectives, and refraining from judgment. It also involves treating school property with care and maintaining a positive environment that enables all to learn.

By demonstrating respect and by striving to make everyone feel valued and heard, we cultivate a culture of inclusivity and understanding. Remember, in our journey of learning, respect is the compass that guides us towards success. Let's navigate this term with kindness, empathy, and above all, respect.

Emma Sheppard - Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 7/8

This term the Year 7 and 8's have settled well into their learning, and are both covering Algebra in their Maths lessons - as it has turned out the majority of the whole school are covering algebra this term. The College Cross Country event last Friday was a huge success with the vast majority of students participating to the best of their ability. The Year 7's did a 3km course, whilst the Year 8's and above had a 4km course with the senior years running 6km.

Alex Hinchliffe - Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 7/8

Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 11/12

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Term 2! May is gearing up to be quite busy, particularly with the internal exams for Essential English and Essential Maths – Phase 2. If you notice your child struggling with these assessments, please don't hesitate to contact me through Julie at student reception.

This term holds special significance as our seniors embark on serious fundraising efforts for the 2024 Year 12 Formal, slated for Saturday, November 9 at the Reef Hotel Casino, Cairns. Our fundraising activities kick off this week on Friday, May 3rd, and will continue on consecutive Fridays, May 10th, and May 17th. We've had a large group of students, parents, and staff working diligently, and we're thrilled to introduce our Friday Tuckshop events. Students can indulge in a hot meal package comprising a hot snack, a sweet treat, and a choice of hot or cold beverage. This week's offerings include sausages, cookies, and Milo, all contributing to our Formal fundraising endeavours.

To keep things dynamic and engaging, classes have curated a variety of options for upcoming Tuckshop days. We'll be rotating through these selections to ensure everyone eagerly anticipates each meal.

Meanwhile, our Year 11 students are currently finalising Senior Shirt Designs for 2025. We've seen some fantastic design ideas, and I'm aware that there are still students working on perfecting their concepts. We will keep you updated.

Thank you for your continued support!

Warm regards,

Doris Cuda - Pastoral Leader Behaviour and Engagement - 11/12

2024 YEAR 12 FORMAL FUNDRAISER

HELP US MAKE THE 2024 YEAR 12 FORMAL A NIGHT TO REMEMBER ….

On the Friday 3^rd, 10^th & 17 May, our M19 Tuck-shop will open for business during second lunch break. Remember there will be A ONE WAY ENTRY past M19 to obtain your order.

Walk up the F BLOCK flight of stairs.
Present your ticket to the students at the window.
Wait patiently for your order to be filled.
Walk down the LIFT FLIGHT of stairs.
Eat your lunch while it is hot.
Return for seconds and to buy other items.
Food Service stops at 1:00 pm sharp.

Lunch Order slips will be available from Miss Julie at STUDENT RECEPTION.

MENU FRI 3 MAY

Meal Deal (Sausage, sweets and Milo) $7.00

Seconds:

Extra sausage - $3 Hot or Cold Milo - $3

Bring Extra spending money – also available: Frozen Cups - $1 Bulk Lollipop Raffle Tickets: 50 c each.

Chance to win $100: Tickets: $2 Other Yummy Eats: 50 c - $1 each.

Community News

Well Womens Clinics
(These clinics are available to Medicare eligible clients)
Service includes Cervical Screening Tests (Pap Smears), Sexual Health Screening, Breast Awareness, also info on Contraception, Continence, Menopause, Lifestyle Issues, Bowel Health, etc.
All services are provided by a specially trained Women’s Health Nurse.

Atherton Health Centre - Tuesday 21st May - Ph: 4091 0263
Malanda Health Centre - Wednesday 22nd May - Ph: 4096 5339

MSB Calendar

NAIDOC DAY TRAVEL - ABSTUDY BOOKINGS DUE BY 31 MAY 2024

Families come from near and far to celebrate with us and experience our MSB NAIDOC Day.  We welcome anyone who would like to travel to do so.  

If you require Abstudy travel for this, please email hobrien1@cns.catholic.edu.au or phone 4096 1485. Please provide your students name, the names, date of birth, CRN number and phone contact numbers for each person you would like to travel. 

Please note Abstudy allow up to 3 people per student to travel for NAIDOC Day. 

We are hoping Abstudy will approve travel bookings to arrive either Wednesday 24 July or Thursday 25 July and to depart for home on Monday 29 July.  If approved, you will stay in Abstudy accommodation, then on Friday afternoon after NAIDOC Day you will be transported to Cairns where you can also take your student (with a leave form completed before departure) and have a weekend in Cairns.  Students will then be picked up at 3pm from Cairns Central - McLeod St, Cairns on Sunday and families will be flown back home on Monday.

All travel requests are due by 31 May 2024 to avoid disappointment.

Term 2

Sat 4 - Sun 5 May - Exeat (Free) Weekend

Mon 6 May - Labour Day Public Holiday - MSB Main Office closed

Fri 10 - Sun 12 May - Great Wheelbarrow Race

Thurs 16 May - College Concert 6.30 - 8.30pm Mercy Hall

Fri 17 May - CANCELLED Shared Lunch Dining Room - Please ensure your child either orders or brings morning tea and lunch to school on this day. This shared lunch has been moved to our Athletics Carnival in Week 10.

Fri 24 May - Gateway to Industries - Coffee & Indigenous Chef Program

Tues 21 - Fri 24 May - Year 10 Expedition

Sat 25 - Sun 26 May - Exeat (Free) Weekend

MSB Messenger Friday 3rd May 2024