We have come to the end of an incredibly busy and eventful term. This year has seen a steady increase in students across the College, with all staff and students steadily settling into another school year. There have been some wonderful opportunities for our students including the Year Six Camp, inter-house and inter-school Swimming Carnivals and the Year 12 Retreat in Pemberton, where the Year 12 students not only participated in both fun and reflective activities, they built bikes for children without bikes from Pemberton. This was a special moment for all. We have also celebrated a very successful St Joseph’s Day and at present the Canberra tourists are preparing for their tour in the second week of the holidays. Many classrooms will be carpeted over the holidays, which is very exciting given the journey the Junior school has been on in the last 4 weeks. We also Welcome back Mrs Keenan next term after her terms break. Finally, thank you to Mr Habal for organising the Whole School Easter Liturgy in the gym on Friday afternoon.

To all families, The College wishes you a safe and happy Easter holiday period. Please try to take the time to find a moment as Jesus did to reflect on your life and find ways to make the lives of all those around us better this Easter.

Important information

Term 2. Term 2 Starts on Tuesday April 29. Winter uniform begins!

Parent Teacher interviews will be held Wednesday 30^th April. Parents will be sent a link over the holidays to book times with teachers.

Interim Reports (Secondary) and assessment folders (Junior) Will both be sent home on Friday. Please take the time to read these with your child and book an interview if required.

Have a blessed Easter.

Jim Morcom

Acting Principal

Holy week schedule from Holy Family Parish.

The highlighted section of the church carpark will be closed on Wednesday 9 to enable new lights to be fitted. The remainder of the carpark will be open and there should be plenty of room as the Year 12s are away for the week. Parents are asked to leave the carpark closest to the school for parents who are walking students to the ELC. Thank you for your understanding.

Yesterday in Year 4B we decorated egg-shaped biscuits as we shared our knowledge of the Easter Story and the symbolism behind eggs, rabbits and chicks. Armed with sprinkles, choc chips, smarties, icing and marshmallows, we got to work and made some egg-cellent creations! Mrs. Nash was roped in to judge the final creations, and Maddy Banham took out the win with her very creative 3D mushroom garden! Of course, then we had to eat them.... needless to say, it was a VERY quiet moment in class!

Thank you to Mrs. Palfrey for the wonderful idea!

Mrs. Cassell

Year 4 Relief Teacher

Thank you for all your support to our College Production last year. This year, we will be doing again Celebration of Talents (A Variety Show). We know that we have lots of talents in the college that we can showcase and celebrate. Auditions will be on Term 2 Weeks 3 - 5 Thursdays (May 15, 22 and 29) from 3:30 - 4:30pm. It is open to all of college community members e.g. students, parents, family, staff. We would love to see you unleash your talents so start rehearsing now and see you on the auditions. Thank you in advance for all your support!

Mr Richard Habal, Ms Hiedi Rowe and Mr Mark Collins

Event Coordinators

In the Year 8 HASS this week, students had the opportunity to engage with a fascinating collection of medieval artifacts, borrowed from the Western Australian Museum.

These replica objects offered a hands-on exploration of life in 14th-century Medieval Europe, highlighting key aspects of social, cultural, and political life. Students examined items such as knights' armour, merchant tools, royal garments and even mummified animals. Additionally, students explored timelines, photographs of the Bayeux Tapestry, articles on the Black Plague, and examples of medieval scripture.

Students were asked to reflect on questions such as:

·      What do you think the object is made of?

·      What occupation or role would have used this?

·      Who might the object be important to and why?

This immersive experience allowed students to imagine living in a medieval society and brought history to life in a truly interactive way.

Students in year 9 HASS have been learning about the history surrounding the First World War. Our specific focus this week has been investigating the legend of the ANZAC.

Year 9 students had the opportunity to interact with “WW1 Memorial Box” from the Australian War Museum. It included objects that explore the involvement of over 416,000 Australian soldiers, sailors, airmen, and nurses – as well as those on the home front – during a defining period of our nation's history.

Stories came to life as students unpacked real and replica First World War items in this box. Items included: photographs, letters, quotes, feature articles, a mess tin, a map, a helmet, uniform, water bottle, rising sun badge and a troop magazine.

Students were given thought provoking questions to help them deepen their understanding, empathy and honour the experience of those who served in WW1.

Reflection Questions included:

1. Personal Connection: How did holding these items make you feel? Did you feel connected to the past or the soldiers who used them?
2. Imagining the Past: What do you think a soldier might have felt when wearing the uniform or using the gas mask? Can you picture a specific moment in their life?
3. Symbolism and Meaning: What do these items symbolise to you? How do they represent the experiences of soldiers during WWI?

Over the last few weeks, Junior School students have been busy learning about Lent and Easter. There are some beautiful artworks on display in classrooms that depict the Easter story and explore the symbolism of Easter eggs. St Joseph's College wishes everyone a safe and happy school holidays, and a holy Easter.

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.'" John 11:25-26

Today some of the Year 6 students were treated to a delicious and well-earned reward, Pancake Making Morning!   The smell of sizzling batter filled the air as the students put their cooking skills to the test — all as a celebration of their incredible dedication to reading 10 consecutive nights in a row.

These students have been recording their reading in their diaries and showing a consistent commitment to building good habits and a love for books. To recognise their hard work, Mrs Hines and Mrs Grimes organised a fun and tasty morning where students got to mix, flip, and decorate their own pancakes with lots of whipped cream, chocolate sauce, maple syrup and berries all topped with a mini chocolate egg.

The Pancake Morning wasn’t just about tasty treats — it was a reminder that dedication and responsibility come with sweet rewards. A big congratulations to this group of Year 6 students and their parents who supported the home reading. We’re proud of you!

Keep reading, Year 6 — who knows what delicious adventures might come next…………..

On Tuesday 18th March, students in Years 4-6 participated in the Interhouse Swimming Carnival. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to compete in swimming races to earn points for their House and also to win individual awards. Congratulations to DeVialar for winning the shield! A special mention to Luke Molenda, who broke every individual record for the Year 5 Boys events on the day.

From the Interhouse Carnival, a select few students were chosen to represent the College at the ADPSSA Interschool Swimming Carnival on Thursday 10th April. The St. Joe's swimmers performed admirably and finished in a respectful 2nd place overall. Well done to Indi Vrbasso in Year 6, who was crowned Champion Girl on the day. I am very proud of each of the swimmers, who gave it their all and represented the College with excellence.

Every Wednesday, our enthusiastic Year 3 students visit the three-year-old Kindy class to lend a helping hand with changing library books. However, with the library currently out of action, today’s visit took on a different focus—strengthening friendships through play and storytelling!

Instead of swapping books, our Year 3s spent quality time with their younger buddies, reading stories, engaging in fun activities, and getting to know them better. The Kindy students were delighted to have their ‘big kid’ friends join them, and the bonds between the two groups continue to grow stronger each week.

These special visits are not only a highlight for both year groups but also provide wonderful opportunities for leadership, empathy, and cooperation. We look forward to more heartwarming moments as our Year 3s and Kindy students share their love for stories, learning, and friendship!

Hoping you all have survived the first term of 2025 and are looking forward to a well-deserved break. I just wanted to pass along the details for our health coaching services that are available year-round and FREE to children and families across WA, as funded by the Department of Health.

Better Health Program - children aged 6 - 12 & their families

Active8 - children aged 2 - 5 & their families

Better Health Coaching Service - adults aged 18+

The Better Health Program - our free, evidence-based and interactive healthy lifestyle program - will be the most relevant to your students and their families, so I have included a newsletter insert below and a supporting social media tile:

10 FREE CALLS WITH A HEALTH PROFESSIONAL IN SOUTH WEST – Support to Get Your Kids Moving & Eating Well!

Want to build healthy family habits — for FREE? Jump into our Better Health Program to get tailored and evidence-based support from a health professional!

💻 1 - 2 hours of online FUN for 10-weeks!

🍎 Learn about healthy eating, balancing screen time & staying active

⭐ For kids 6-12 & their families

‼️ Online program available year-round!

🔗 https://betterhealthprogram.org/ or 📞 1300 822 953

Are you revising, doing assignments, readings, or anything else over the school holidays?

Remember that Albany Public Library's free Studiosity service is available with instant chat and fast feedback, throughout the break.

Log into Studiosity from the Albany Public Library, Kids & Teen Resources page using your library card as the password for unlimited with study, writing and exam support 24/7

South Coast NRM have just launched a Threatened Species Artwork Competition to raise awareness for threatened species in the region! There are two categories for entry (colouring in and original artwork) and prizes will be awarded for the winner and runner up in several age groups. We are hoping to engage a wide range of audiences, including children and the competition suits under 6s all the way up to adults! The competition is open to anyone from the South Coast Region (Walpole all the way to Esperance and as far north as Kojonup).

More information on the art competition (including downloadable colouring in pages) is available on our website: https://southcoastnrm.com.au/publications/

We will have a number of great prizes for this event and are keen to get as many entrants as possible! Submissions are due 23 May 2025! We will exhibit the submitted artworks at an event in June and announce winners then!

The Vancouver Arts Centre has programmed some interesting learning opportunities over the Easter break.

More information is available on the Arts and Culture webpage https://artsandculture.albany.wa.gov.au/workshops/workshops.aspx

I just wanted to let you know the Library has just launched the NEW Reading Challenge.

The Power of Play workshop  is focused on children 3-10 years.

P&F Easter Raffle tickets are now available here: https://www.raffletix.com.au/sjcpandfeaster2025

BLANK WALLS YOUTH ART EXHIBITION

headspace Albany is excited to invite you to their Blank Walls Youth Art Exhibition as part of Youth Week!

WHEN – Monday 31st March to Thursday 17th April (extended to Saturday 19th April)

WHEN – 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday

WHERE - Vancouver Arts Centre, 85 Vancouver St, Albany

Come along to see the original artworks and photographs by talented young Great Southern artists on the themes of “Hope” & “Connection”. You will also have the opportunity to vote in the “Community’s Choice” award until 17th April.

This Youth Art Exhibition has been organised by headspace Albany, with support from Youth Focus and the City of Albany Arts & Culture Team.

Albany Roller Derby is excited to welcome new and returning skaters to our 2025 season, and we'd love your help in spreading the word.

Registration opens on April 1st, with the season kicking off on May 1st.

Registration Link: www.albanyrollerderby.com.au/joinus

Information Session for Volunteers

The City of Albany is hosting an action packed all-abilities Laserscape session at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre! This inclusive session is open to all skill levels, ensuring a fun and accessible experience for everyone. Details below:

Date: Wednesday 23 April

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

Where: Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre

Cost: $10

Carers, parents, and guardians with a Companion Card can participate for free to support their child or client - Companion Card will need to be shown on arrival (no booking required for card holders). Additionally, children under 16 years will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Registrations are now open so please register here, or see the attached flyer.

You can visit this link and teams can register there: https://bit.ly/4iLDWoG

Summary of P&F Meeting held 18th March 2025.

Easter is coming & we are now collecting Easter donations for our Annual Easter Raffle. We would be very grateful if you could pop a bunny, egg, craft, book or any other Easter item in your trolley next time you're shopping.

Junior school classrooms will have donation boxes and Senior school students can drop their donations to the canteen or office. We are looking forward to all the excitement from the students again this year!

Come and Try Golf Girls Clinic- Sunday 27th April 10-11am

https://www.golf.org.au/mygolf/programdetails/?programId=44845

Albany Golf Club are delighted to offer a free come and try day to hit real golf balls at our club as part of MyGolf Girls Month! All golf clubs, balls and equipment are provided.

This clinic is for girls only and is a great introduction for children 6 years old and above who have never played golf before / are thinking of starting out!

Ensure you have closed footwear (runners) but also don't forget to slip on a hat and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated!

Free 4 week taster Clinics for Girls- 11th May to 1st June 12-1pm

https://www.golf.org.au/mygolf/programdetails/?programId=44846

Albany Golf Club are delighted to offer a free 4 week taster program as part of MyGolf Girls Month! All golf clubs, balls and equipment are provided. This program will go through hitting, chipping and putting to give you the confidence and skills to consider playing more in the future!

This clinic is for girls only and is a great introduction for children 6 years old and above who have never played golf before / are thinking of starting out!

Ensure you have closed footwear (runners) but also don't forget to slip on a hat and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated!

The MSWA Albany Swim, now in its 13th year, is a family-friendly event that brings our vibrant regional community together for an unforgettable day at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre. Teams compete in an eight-hour marathon swim, pushing their limits to cover the longest distance in support of West Aussies living with neurological conditions. By getting a team together and participating in our swim, you are helping to make a lasting impact and help our Clients focus on life, not limits.

This fundraising event is for all ages and abilities, and we would love to welcome a team from your school to take part.

How it works:

1. Get a team together:

Form your dream team with family, friends, or colleagues and take on the ultimate swim challenge. Nominate a team captain who will coordinate the swimming roster on the day! (Swimmers do not need to be there for the full 8 hours; they are welcome to come and go.)

Register here: https://mswaswim.org.au/

1. Keep the water alive:

Teams must always have one swimmer in the water for the duration of the event. All swimming styles (including doggy paddle!) and swimming aids are allowed.

1. Count your laps:

On the day, each team will be given a tally sheet to record how many laps you're making over the eight hours. At the end of the day, the team that recorded the longest distance wins!

1. HAVE FUN!

It's also more than just a day of swimming! We’ve got exciting competitions and activities lined up to keep everyone engaged— including a thrilling inflatable race, which is simply for fun!

Prizes are awarded to the Highest Individual Fundraiser, the Highest Team Fundraisers, and Team Most Laps Swum.

We also supply refreshments on the hour to keep everyone energised.

If you have any questions about our event, please feel free to reach out, and I would be happy to chat about all things MSWA Albany Swim.

The City of Albany is excited to let you know that our April School Holiday Program has officially gone live!

St Joseph’s College P&F are SO EXCITED to announce that MAGGIE DENT is coming to St Joseph’s College on Saturday 24th May from 10am-12pm to present her “Mothering our Boys” seminar!!

Tickets are on sale NOW via https://www.maggiedent.com/events/mothering-our-boys-albany-wa-may-2025/

Get your tickets early as this event will no doubt, sell out!

Our P&F will also run a raffle leading up to this fabulous event - with Free Tickets!!

We warmly invite you to join us for the Stations of the Cross, which will begin this Friday, 7th March, and continue every Friday throughout Lent at 5.30 pm in St. Joseph’s Church.

This special time of reflection and prayer offers us a chance to walk with Christ through His Passion, deepening our faith and preparing our hearts for Easter.

We hope to see you there as we come together in prayer and unity during this Lenten season. God bless!