Term 4 - Week 1 - 13th October 2023

Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome back to Term 4! We trust that our students and families had a chance to unwind after a demanding and, at times, intense previous term. As we begin this term, we are witnessing our school buzzing again with students eager to dive into their studies and reunite with friends, which brings us immense joy.

Incoming Leaders

Last term, Ms. Thomson introduced our College Captains for 2023-2024. We celebrated the announcement of:

Eva Patricks & Brooklyn Roach - College Captains

Molly Shaw & Finla'e Cassidy-Thomason- College Vice Captains

To formally recognise their roles and responsibilities, a badge presentation and handover ceremony occurred during the Graduation Liturgy, where they participated in a symbolic exchange of Student Leadership with the outgoing captains.

Year 12 Graduation

As we concluded the last term, we celebrated the graduation of our Year 12 students. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our graduates for their remarkable achievements. In addition to presenting each student with a well-deserved Graduation certificate, we had the pleasure of recognising several outstanding students with special awards. You can find the complete list of these awardees later in the newsletter, along with some captivating photos of our graduates. Please also enjoy at the end of our newsletter extracts of our College Captains' speech delivered at the Graduation ceremony. 

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) examinations commenced last Wednesday and will continue for four weeks. During this challenging period, we kindly request our entire community to keep our Year 12 students in their thoughts and prayers. 

Winning House of 2023 - Mercy House

During the Year 12 Graduation ceremony, we announced the winning House for the 2022-23 school year. Let us extend our heartiest congratulations to the remarkable students of Mercy House for their outstanding performance. Their dedication and spirit have led them to victory. We also commend House Captains Alexander Salvestro and Mischa McGrath's exemplary leadership and House Leader Eliza Corcoran's unwavering support.

As we embrace the new term, we're excited to start the House competition for 2023-24. We look forward to witnessing the enthusiasm and camaraderie among our students as they embark on this exciting journey.

In closing, we welcome everyone to a fresh start in Term 4. Our college's spirit of achievement and unity continues to thrive, and we can't wait to see the incredible accomplishments ahead.

Warm regards,

Dianne McGowan

Acting Principal

HSC Examinations

This week marks the commencement of the HSC Examinations, and we extend our best wishes to all Year 12 students undertaking the exams. Students have access to Stay Healthy HSC resources which may be useful for the duration of their exams.

Year 11 Reports and Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences

Year 11 Semester Two reports will be issued at the end of next week. Following this, parents/carers will be able to book Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences.

Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences for Year 11 students will be held in Library block on Tuesday 31st October at 6pm. These conferences are a great opportunity to connect with your child’s teachers and discuss academic progress, their strengths and areas for development.

HSC 2024 Information Session

Parents, carers and Year 11 students are warmly invited to our HSC 2024 Information session which will take place on Tuesday 31st October at 6pm following the Year 11 Parent/Student/Teacher Conferences. 

This session will have three main focus areas:

1. HSC Requirements and Assessment
2. Careers and Post School Pathways
3. Student Wellbeing

This informative session is designed to provide valuable insights and we strongly encourage your attendance. It's a great opportunity to gain clarity on HSC expectations, explore various career and post-school options, and address any concerns relating to student wellbeing. We look forward to seeing you then.

Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT)

Students in Years 7 to 10 are currently participating in PAT testing. The PAT tests are assessments in the areas of Maths, Reading and Science. These tests provide us with a measure of a student’s knowledge, skills and understanding and help to pinpoint where they are in their learning journey and what they need to progress.

Elevate Free Parent Webinar

Tiffany Lee

Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching (Acting)

Some General Business for the Start of Term 4

Uniform

Guidelines for Student Uniform can be found on p.13a-17a of the Student Planner. Information about uniform was also emailed to parents and carers on October 10.

When can sports uniform be worn to school?

• All students every Thursday
• PDHPE and PASS practical lesson (HALL on your Timetable)

Jewellery should be modest and kept to a minimum. Hair is to be well groomed, tidy and long hair over the collar must be tied up. Hats must be worn at all times when out in the sun.

Girls' skirts are to be between the knee and 5cm above the knee. As many girls have had growth spurts, we will give students two weeks to take down hems and lengthen skirts. Girls who may struggle to complete this at home will be asked to do this at school.

Uniform checks will be conducted regularly throughout the term to ensure we maintain high standards.

Toilets

In the holidays a refurbishment began on the toilets in A block, often referred to as the Junior toilets. This involved the demolition of two toilet areas, which are now being rebuilt with a new design that is more open and easier to access and supervise. This major renovation for the College is estimated to be completed at the end of Week 4. Other toilet blocks have been opened in P Block and all students may access the toilets in C Block, often referred to as the Senior Toilets.

It is hoped that this will make the toilet area more hygienic and safer.

Mobile Phones

Guidelines for mobile phones can be found on p19a of the Student Planner.

Mobile phones are to be switched OFF and put away when students arrive at school and may be turned on again at 3.10pm.

If it is necessary for parents or carers to make contact during school hours this must be done in the usual manner through the school office.

If students are using a mobile phone at school without permission:

• 1st and 2nd offence - confiscated and placed in the office
• 3rd offence - confiscated and the phone must be collected by parents

Cyber Safety - Rise of AI Generated Adult Content on TikTok

On behalf of our cyber safety partner, Safe on Social, we are updating you on a particularly disturbing trend we’ve seen recently about the latest wave of AI-generated bots that are flooding social media platforms.

As many of our students are active TikTok users we wanted parents to be aware of how lifelike these bots have become, and the dangers they pose to our children.

Safe on Social recently showed a screen recording that looks like a teenager dancing in a very sexualised way on TikTok; however, it was a completely fake young woman saying, “Hey boys, follow me and click here”. Within just two clicks this video sent an unsuspecting user to adult content. That's why it's crucial to heavily supervise what your kids are watching on TikTok.

Please, if you come across these deceptive images and links, report them immediately. Parents be extra cautious if your kids use your phone to access TikTok,  especially if your device is connected to your workplace. Safe on Social have provided more TikTok safety tips below:

For Parents of Users Under 18:

1. Verify Age

Ensure your child has entered their correct date of birth when creating an account. New security features for users under 16 won't work if the age is incorrect. Correcting this is not easy, but it's vital for your child's safety.

2. Check for Updates

Stay informed about new security features. TikTok has introduced several features for users under 16, such as defaulting to private accounts and blocking direct messages.

3. Abide by Age Restrictions

TikTok recommends a minimum age of 13. Be aware of the content your child may encounter and supervise their usage. Facial recognition alone is not fool proof and as we mentioned above, it’s getting harder and harder to see what is AI generated or not.

4. Use Family Pairing

If you have a TikTok account, consider using Family Pairing for added protection. It allows you to manage your child's digital well-being and privacy settings.

5. Discuss Privacy

Teach your child the importance of keeping personal information offline. Encourage them not to film content in school uniforms, avoid revealing personal details, and be cautious about sharing identifiable information.

6. Teach Blocking and Reporting

Show your child how to block and report any online bullies. Familiarise yourself with the process and be ready to assist if necessary.

Remember, TikTok can be a fun platform, but safety should always come first. Stay informed and engaged with your child's online activities to ensure a positive and secure experience. For more tips on TikTok and other cyber safety essentials please visit the Safe on Social website.

Margaret Bertalli

Assistant Principal

Year 10 Work Experience and Structured Workplace Learning

All Year 10 students are reminded that compulsory Work Experience is fast approaching. Students should be making enquiries now to attend workplaces during the week of November 27 until December 1 in Term 4, especially if they are considering travelling interstate.

Work Experience is a valuable opportunity to assist students with the planning of their career path. It is also a chance for students who intend to leave school to showcase their abilities to prospective employers.

All the necessary guidelines and permission forms can be accessed on our Career website at www.mcauleycatholiccollegecareers.com

Reminders for Students

Student_Careers_Resources_October_February.pdf

Student_Careers_Resources_October_February _pdf 176.38 KB

DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE AS A CADET DRAFTER WITH SMEC AUSTRALIA, BASED IN GRAFTON!

SEE MORE HERE https://www.smec.com/au/

Rod Paton
Careers Adviser

Footwear in Practical Subjects

To remain compliant in all TAS practical subjects and to adhere by correct safety guidelines we ask that all students wear the correct footwear for practical lessons.  Students are to wear enclosed leather footwear (or other material confirmed by the manufacturer to be suitable - standard 2210). If students present for a practical class or activity with inappropriate footwear they will not be able to participate in the practical activity until they are wearing appropriate footwear. Students may be asked to attend ALR (Alternative Learning Room) until this issue has been resolved. 

Therefore, on days they have TAS practical subjects and PDHPE/PASS practical students can wear their sports uniform and bring appropriate footwear or wear their formal uniform and change into their sports uniform. 

Please Note: The above message has already been communicated by the College Principal Kate Thompson in the Week 7 Newsletter https://mcaulcgrafton.schoolzineplus.com/schoolnews?nid=78

Parents and Carers of Year 9 and 10 students are now able to purchase a Chromebook for their child online through our new Ordering Portal via the College website.

Click the link below to access College Computer Information, Policies, and the Order Portal.

On Wednesday, 20th September we celebrated our Year 12 Graduation in front a large audience of family, friends, staff and fellow students. Students were presented with their Graduation Certificate, Academic and sport certifcates, and a variety of special awards. Photos and a list of awards can be seen below. We congratulate our Year 12 students and wish them all the best as they complete their HSC examinations.

Special Awards

McAuley Medal

Kaylee Adamson, Nash Crofton, Angelina Francescucci, Paige Thompson, Jorja White

Christian Leadership Award

Blake Felton, Jorja White 

Sports Person of the Year

Sahara Powell

Service to the College Award

Navrin Howard

Good Citizenship & Community Service Award

Paige Thompson

Sr Cecelia Moran Memorial Award for Contribution to the Culture of the College

Nash Crofton

The Reuben F. Scarf Award for Commitment

Angelina Francesucci

College Award for Commitment to Study

Kaylee Adamson, Mika Collard, James Grimshaw, Laynie Rheinberger, Levi Vereyken

College Academic Excellence Award

Mayha Mead-Davis, Sean Sowell, Stella Van Leest

College Best All-Rounder Award

Sean Sowell, Stella Van Leest, Levi Vereyken

Australian Defence Forces Long Tan Award for Leadership & Service

Nash Crofton

Australian Defence Forces Future Innovation Award

Jace Gilbert

Graduating Class of 2023

Excerpts from the 2023 Captain's Speech

2023 Year 12 Graduation - Captain's Speech (Nash & Kaydence) 

"...Looking back on these past six years, we can all agree that it's been a rollercoaster ride. Through it all, we've grown, evolved, and emerged as the individuals we are today. We've faced academic challenges, navigated the ups and downs of teenage life, and learned valuable lessons both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it was late-night study sessions, stressful exams, or moments of self-doubt, we persevered and emerged stronger. But let's not forget that high school is not just about tests and grades. It's also about building friendships, creating memories, and discovering our passions. The bonds we've formed with our classmates are invaluable, and the memories we've created together will last a lifetime...

We would like to also mention our super proactive, enthusiastic, can-never-stop-talking leadership team. It could just be because we're in year 12 that we realise this, but the amount of enthusiasm and passion that goes into so many events and causes around the school is crazy. The amount of hours that have gone into planning events, creating videos and trying to rally up house spirit is tremendous. Since this leadership team has been in place, we've had a men's World Cup, a women's World Cup, McAuley Fest, Anti-Bullying Day, McAuley Day, Green Day, Jersey Day, Weekly Hall Games, and so many more initiatives that each take hours and hours of hard work. So not only to the Year 12's but the entire 2023 SLT Team, including Year 10, 11, 12 and teachers.

Back to our love for this college. I live a one-minute drive from another high school, but instead, myself and almost 200 other students travel an hour bus trip every day to receive our education from here. After going to this school and experiencing all I have over the past six years, there is no way I would go anywhere else. This is such a great school, with an amazing supportive community of staff and students. So students, take every opportunity you are given here, go to the fun days, the carnivals, your classes, talk with your teachers and make the most of this time you have here with your friends. It feels like only last week we were walking into this school on our first day of year 7, and now, all of a sudden, we are giving our final speech to you as our school. The time you have here with your friends is so limited, so once again, make the most of every opportunity you're given here.

So now, as we say goodbye to you all for the last time, as we end a 13-year journey of hanging with our friends every day, as we begin to take on some responsibilities of life and grow into adults, as we drive out of Hennessy Drive for the last time, away from this castle on the hill, we must realise year 12, that all of these lasts we are going through, are paving the way for many, many more firsts. Some will enter a new job for the first time, some will travel the world for the first time, some will step into their university gates for the first time, and others will take their time until they find their own calling.

As we embark on the next stage of our journey, whatever these firsts may be, we must carry the lessons we have learned here with us. We must remember that our high school years are just the beginning. There is a world full of possibilities waiting for us, and it is our responsibility to seize them. As we step out into the world, let us not be afraid to dream big, to set bold goals, and to work hard to achieve them. As Dr. Seuss wrote, "You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go. 

Students, Staff, Parents and members of the McAuley Community - it has been our absolute pleasure being your captains this year. 

A big congrats to the class of 2023!!!!!! We have no doubt that each and every one of us has the potential to leave a remarkable impact on this world. Let us go forth with confidence, compassion, courage and determination."

Australian Fire Cadets Championships

Congratulations to Eli Masters who was one of more than 120 fire and Emergency Service Cadets from across Australia that participated in the Australian Fire Cadets Championships. Eli was joined by 5 other students from Grafton High School and the team were crowned national champions over the twenty other teams from across NSW, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland and Western Australia.

U/16’s National Youth Soccer Championships, Wollongong

Congratulations to Navah Crofton, who represented Northern NSW in the U/16's National Youth Soccer Championship last week. She made incredible efforts throughout all of her games and fought hard to place in the top 4 of all teams across the country.

Well done Navah!

As mentioned in our previous Newsletters over the last few weeks, the College now offers lunch orders online through the Flexischools app. Please see the attached flyer to get started.

Dates to note:

October:

16th: Sam Dougherty Award Open (Yr 11)

         PAT Testing Yr 8 & 9

17th: PAT Testing Yr 9 & 10

19th: Yr 10 & Yr 11 2024 Leadership Applications Open

26th: Yr 7 Immunisation Catch-Ups

27th: Yr 10 & Yr 11 Leadership Applications Close

30th: Yr 10 & Yr 11 Leadership Interviews

31st: Yr 11 Parent Information Evening

         Yr 11 Parent, Teacher, Student Conferences 

November

1st: All Saints Day

2nd: Jacaranda Thursday

7th: Yr 6 Orientation Day

       Yr 6 Parent Night 

       Yr 8 Surf Awareness Day

7th-9th: Yr 9 Camp

10th: OPAL's due Yrs 7-10

11th: Remembrance Day

         Yr 12 Graduation Dinner

13th: Sam Dougherty Award Nominations Close

14th: Parent Forum

15th-17th: Yr 10 Camp

16th: Debating Championships, Sydney

20th: Yr 9 Reflection Day

23rd: 2024 Student Leadership Team announced

27th: Yr 7 Reflection Day

27th-1st Dec: Yr 10 Work Experience Week

29th: Yr 8 Reflection Day

Please note COVID-19 is still present in our community. 

Please be reminded that students and staff CANNOT attend school if they are showing any symptoms of COVID-19. 

Students who are unwell

If a student is unwell, displaying any COVID-19 or cold and flu-like symptoms at any time, they CANNOT attend school and should undertake a rapid antigen test. 

If the rapid antigen test is positive and the student is unwell and/or experiencing any symptoms, they CANNOT attend school.

If the rapid antigen test is positive and the student is not feeling unwell and not displaying or experiencing any symptoms, they CAN attend school under the following conditions:

• the school office is informed of the positive test result, AND
• the student (over 12 years old) wears a mask for a period of 7 days in all indoor settings.