Filter Content
Dear Parents, Students and Friends
Welcome to our final term for 2023! We have much to look forward to as the ten weeks unfold. There are excellent opportunities planned for students to engage with and celebrations to look forward to as Christmas approaches.
The staff and I began last week with whole staff spirituality input. The session provided an opportunity to think deeply about what is important and how connections in our life impact us. Work is a huge part of who we are and how we see the world. We are very lucky that our values align with our everyday work at Carroll as we support the young people and families in our care. The more we can be in touch with the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of what we do, the more effective we will be in our roles. The spiritual input created the space and time to reflect and share insights with one another. It was also an opportunity to revisit our college Vision and Mission statements that were reimagined and finalised last year.
Each staff member was presented with a holding cross blessed by Fr Loi to symbolise a tangible connection to our faith and what we stand for as a Catholic community.
Significance of the Holding Cross
Notice the simplicity of The Holding Cross: the wood, the shape, the feel. Place The Holding Cross in the palm of your hand and wrap your fingers around the uneven cut and rounded edges. Your hand will naturally cradle the cross. The Holding Cross gently fits itself inside. The Holding Cross is a personal process. Through your sense of touch and reflection, you may find yourself saying a familiar prayer, such as the Lord's Prayer, or meditating with the word ‘Maranatha’ (Come Lord). No words are needed. Simply holding your cross silently during quiet meditation is prayer. Many just fall asleep at the end of the day with their Holding Cross in their hand. Carrying The Holding Cross in your pocket, bag or keeping it in your car is a subtle reminder of who you are. It can be carried everywhere confidentially and confidently. Left on a coffee table, kitchen bench or desk, the Holding Cross presents an open invitation of prayer any time of the day. Holding your cross can also be a useful tool when praying for others, especially for those who are suffering or in need. Using a hand-held cross is an ancient tradition that has been used throughout the world for centuries. Since the early church, being identified with the cross has been a universal acknowledgement of being a Christian. Today, the Holding Cross is used in hospitals, nursing homes and hospice care. Young or old, in sickness or in health, in good times and trying times, the gift of The Holding Cross is a gift of love from one hand to another.
CATALYST
Classroom Mastery – Pupil Free Day for Initial Training - Wednesday 25 October (Week 3)
As previously communicated, next year, Catholic Education is introducing a behavioural /well-being program called ‘Classroom Mastery’ to selected schools to pilot the program for gradual implementation across the system.
Our three K-12 Catholic schools on the coast have been selected in the first wave of schools to participate in 2024. Our three schools were chosen recognising the importance of a common approach for the K-12 Pathway.
Initial training is commencing next week with Dr Tim McDonald to upskill staff. To enable this to occur, an additional Pupil Free Day has been approved for Wednesday 25 October (Week 3). This training complements Catalyst initiatives, particularly High Impact Teaching Practices.
Our involvement in this program is exciting as it supports our continual promotion of high expectations for learning.
https://www.classroommastery.com.au
The Classroom Mastery Leaders Masterclass on Wednesday 25 October involves school executive staff (primary) and Executive/Curriculum Leadership Team/Pastoral staff (secondary).
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM
College Captains - Liam Walsh and Macy Follet, College Vice Captains - Michael Aitken and Alyssa Harajli, Social Justice Captains - Angelina, Sophie Billett and Chloe Tyrrell, Indigenous Captains - Sarmaya Te-Kowhai, Rhianna Brierley and Samantha Ellis, Chisholm House Captains - Evie Theodore and Shelby Henderson, MacKillop House Captains - Ashlianne Sharp and Finn Love and Xavier House Captains - Maxine Leth and Luke Gallen.
STAFFING NEWS
We welcome Mrs Danielle Ciuffetelli back to work following Maternity Leave. Mrs Ciuffetelli will be working 4 days p/week which is fantastic news!
We welcome Mr Greg McAteer back this term following leave last term. Mrs Karen Lyttle also returns from leave next Monday. I thank Mrs Kym Millikin for stepping into the pastoral role for the past month to allow colleagues to take long service leave.
Mrs Julie Wiggins has also returned for Term 4 following a break last term.
We welcome Mrs Izabela Rudol back following her time away in Canada with her family. Our prayers and support have been with Mrs Rudol during this difficult time with her father being unwell.
Mrs Marg Croese is currently on long service leave from 11 October to 9 November. Her initial plans to travel to Israel have obviously changed. She is currently in Assisi and thoroughly enjoying the experience.
Mrs Rhonda Forner has decided to move onto other endeavours and no longer works for Carroll College. I wish her well for the future. The position of Business Manager will be advertised next week.
A reminder that Mr Tim Hodges is trialling Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA) for Term 4. Mrs Janette Soper will step into the Science Coordinator’s role for one day p/week in Mr Hodges’ absence. Mr Hodges is taking Tuesdays off work for the 10 week period. He has no classes on his timetable on Tuesdays so no students will be affected. I wish to both Mrs Soper and Mr Hodges all the best as they trial this new structure.
Mrs Cathy Fryer has been appointed by Catholic Education to work one day p/week remotely as a VET Support Officer supporting Ms Karen Ruppert, Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Manager. This role complements Mrs Fryer’s position at the college.
BUILDING PROJECTS
Our plans for the TAS refurbishment and upgrade of facilities are in at council. I will keep you updated on the progress of these.
Construction has started on the awning outside B Block in readiness for the next round of lockers to be installed. This awning will provide protection from the elements.
Another awning is also being installed off the side of the girls’ toilets which wasn’t completed at the time of the refurbishment.
New college signage has been installed this week which looks fantastic! You can see a snapshot below!
We continue to keep our Year 12 students in our prayers as they undertake their HSC exams.
Enjoy a restful weekend.
Jacqueline Heffernan
Principal
“The fruit of love is service, which is compassion in action.”
St Mother Teresa
Staff Spirituality
At the start of each term, the staff gather to prepare themselves for the weeks ahead; we always begin with prayer and take time to pause and to connect with God and with our inner selves. This term we engaged in a more significant prayer centred around our new Vision and Mission statements. We began with a meditation on ‘Jesus as the True Vine’ from the Gospel of John (15:1-17). The staff took time to slowly reflect on the Scripture and what it was saying to each of us at that moment in time. Meditation in Scripture is a beautiful way to pray - there is no right or wrong and it is interesting to see where our minds and hearts take us as we focus on the words that stand out.
From this point, we read a wonderful reflection called “Listening as Healing” from Margaret Wheatley about the importance of telling, and listening to, stories. Staff then moved into small groups to consider how we are enlivening our Vision and Mission statements and how we might be able to improve.
All groups create a SlideShow presentation with real examples of how we are bringing our Vision and Mission to life. Groups then presented to each other to share their stories and listen to each other. It was a wonderful experience and one that made us all realise the great work happening here at Carroll College and our renewed commitment to be constantly improving.
Vision Statement
Carroll College is a Catholic learning community enriching the lives of young people through faith in action.
Mission Statement
At Carroll College our core moral purpose is to celebrate being a Catholic school for all, that delivers a dynamic curriculum where students are empowered in their learning through contemporary educational practice. In partnership with families, we provide a safe and welcoming environment that is well-resourced to prepare students to be people of integrity and service in the community.
The Gospel teachings are at the heart of our college.
We value:
- being Christ-like and living out the Gospel through compassion, love, equity, justice, and respect
- prayer
- love of neighbour, especially the marginalised
- care of creation
- hospitality
Year 7 Formation Day
On Tuesday 17 October, the Year 10 Youth Ministry class ably led our Year 7 cohort through their Formation Day. The theme of the day was “A Friend for Life” and students were asked to consider the people in their lives who make them stronger and who support them in a positive way. Students also thought about the meaning of friendship and the qualities of a good friend. The final part of the day was a scavenger hunt which required teamwork and creative thinking.
Thank you to the Year 10 students for their excellent leadership and prior preparation. They did a wonderful job. Thank you to Ms Boller for her work with this class and for her ongoing commitment to Youth Ministry at Carroll College. Finally, thank you to Mrs Barling, Faith Formation Coordinator, for all her work in preparing the day and ensuring the Year 7 students had a positive experience.
Erica Drewsen
RE Coordinator
Please keep the following families in your prayers. Greg (Staff), Sophie (Year 12), and Will McAteer (Year 10) on the passing of their Mother and Grandmother, respectively. Jake Attree (Year 10) on the passing of his Great Grandmother. Sophie (Year 9) and Ruby Davis (Year 7) on the passing of their Great Grandfather.
College Assembly
Our new Student Leadership Team led their first college assembly last Tuesday. It was wonderful to see the teamwork on display from a group that has only recently formed. They were able to speak with confidence and passion about their school and connect directly with the younger students. Next week our new leaders will have the opportunity to attend their Leadership Camp which will begin with a twilight experience at school followed by a full day of activities and planning time. We wish them well and look forward to hearing more of their ideas.
Safe and Welcoming environment
During the assembly students were reminded of an important part of the College Mission Statement which refers to our partnership with families to build a safe and welcoming environment for our students. Each day from how we speak and greet each other, how we move through the school and how we respond to people in need and address issues and concerns – we all have a role to play.
The students were reminded that from the moment they walk through the front gate they are surrounded by caring adults who focus on their wellbeing and academic success. Our students can easily access their Homeroom teacher, class teachers, support staff, Pastoral Coordinators, Counsellor, and College leaders throughout the day. Students were encouraged to mention any concerns they have as soon as they arise so we can support their safety and wellbeing. This same invitation is extended to our parents and carers as we work together to support our young people.
Day for Daniel
Day for Daniel is Australia’s largest child safety education and awareness day coordinated by the Daniel Morcombe Foundation. On Friday 27 October 2023, Carroll College will be joining in with a mufti Day and gold coin donation to support the work of the Foundation. Red has become the colour that represents child safety so students are invited to wear as much RED-themed clothing as they can to show their support. Secondly, educational resources about safety will be advertised around the college and through Homerooms. Finally, to support the great work of the Foundation students are asked to donate a gold coin which will be collected in Homeroom.
Parent Webinar program
The eSafety Commissioner is a very active and supportive resource for parents to refer to. The webinar topics for Term 4 2023 can be found in the image below along with the details of how to register.
Wellio 
The College has decided to access the resources of Wellio to enhance the Academic Care program that will continue to be delivered to students across all year groups in 2024. Wellio is a digital platform aimed at proactively improving students’ well-being through selecting a bespoke scope and sequence of engaging lessons with the ability to measure their impact in one powerful tool. On Friday 3 November, the Pastoral Team will be spending the day planning the program for each year level.
In the meantime, as part of this Wellio subscription our parents have access to a parent webinar entitled Resilience and Setbacks; a deep dive into strategies that parents can employ to bolster their children's resilience.
The webinar will cover
- Real-World Resilience: Breaking down what resilience looks like for young people and how they can harness it.
- The Growth from Failure: Helping kids perceive setbacks as growth opportunities rather than just downfalls.
- Mindset Mastery: How top performers, like Michael Jordan, channel an internal mindset to keep their cool.
The Webinar will be held on Thursday 26 October at 6.30pm. Parents and carers are encouraged to use the link below to register for this event.
Webinars | Wellio (wellioeducation.com)
Batemans Bay Youth Foundation Tertiary Education Grants
Attention all Year 12 students and parents!
If your child wants to study at University, TAFE, or a Tertiary Institution or take up an Apprenticeship or Traineeship in 2023 they need to consider a Batemans Bay Youth Foundation Grant. Having completed school, they can apply for a grant of up to $3,500 and can be used to help with their first-year costs.
Please check out the flyer below and take the time to apply for this wonderful opportunity.
Eurobodalla Youth Committee – calling new members!
Every year we have several students who volunteer to be part of this very active group that focuses on the interests of young people in our region. Participation in the youth advisory committee enhances personal growth, nurtures self-confidence and essential skills like leadership and teamwork. Students develop a deeper connection with their community, fostering empathy and social awareness. Their participation also enhances their resumes, prepares them for future leadership roles, and cultivates a sense of social responsibility. Through the youth committee, students not only make a positive impact but also experience personal fulfillment, broadening their horizons and contributing to their overall well-being. If you have students in mind, please reach out to them and offer your encouragement to join.
Currently, the Youth Committee members are working with organisations focusing on homelessness in our local area. The committee is focused on a small initiative to support the community in this area of concern and hopes to complete this wonderful project before the year's end.
If you believe this opportunity would benefit your child, please visit the Council website for further details Youth Committee | Eurobodalla Council (nsw.gov.au) or students can come and see me for more information.
Parents and carers are invited to contact the Pastoral Team if they would like to raise any issues regarding their child.
Louise Ibbett
Assistant Principal - Pastoral Care
Dear Carroll Community,
Welcome back to Term 4! Where has the year gone? It is amazing to think that we are at this point of the year already. I have had the most amazing year, getting to know the staff, students, and parents. We are so fortunate to have such a loving, caring and giving community. I have felt so welcomed and I am enjoying working with you to move our wonderful college forward in the learning and teaching space. I sincerely hope that you all managed to have a restful holiday break and can savour all that Term 4 brings and find grace and gratitude in the often craziness of Term 4. I look forward to a fantastic term at Carroll College, celebrating and acknowledging the year that has been.
It is unfortunate that we are currently living through world events where we are sharing support for our students in how to cope with what they may be exposed to. As always, the well-being of students and staff at Carroll is paramount. Recent events in Israel and Palestine are widely publicised across all media platforms, including TikTok and Instagram, and may cause distress and concern for our young people.
It is normal to have feelings of distress in response to these events and awareness of the impact of this information and images on our young people is important. If at any time, you are concerned about the explicit nature of any information your child or the young people in your care are exposed to on social media platforms, please contact the e-safety commissioner website to report this. (Information regarding what constitutes inappropriate content, and ways to report this are available on the e-safety commissioner’s website.)
As we enter Term 4, students will be embarking on their final term of learning and assessment. Our Year 12 cohort is currently sitting the HSC examinations, and we wish them every success as they complete their final secondary examinations. Year 11 are now engaging in HSC content and will be receiving their 2023-24 Assessment Schedules early in Week 3. Can I please encourage students to note key assessment dates in their personal calendars, and ensure they are aware of all summative assessments on the horizon. The junior school will be completing their final summative tasks mid-term, and this will assist in the development of Semester 2 reporting.
Last week at assembly we celebrated two academic student showcase awards. Congratulations to Chelsea Clugston and Sophie Eppelstun who both received awards for the following:
 |
 |
|
Chelsea Clugston Year 9 Mathematics |
Sophie Eppelstun Year 11 VL Business Studies |
Chelsea Clugston (Year 9) – Nominated by Karen Ashby (Leader of the Mathematics KLA). Chelsea received 100% in her recent two topic tests in mathematics.
Sophie Eppelstun (Year 11) – Has been nominated by her Year 11 Virtual Learning Teacher (Mrs Heidi Stubbs – McAuley College, Tumut) for her consistently outstanding work in the Year 11 course. Sophie has demonstrated exemplary knowledge and understanding throughout the preliminary year.
I wish all our students every success as they approach their studies this term. As always, I encourage all students to achieve their personal best and enjoy their learning!
EFFORT = SUCCESS
Andrew Kenneally
Assistant Principal – Curriculum, Learning and Innovation
Sentral Update
The Sentral data cloud migration was completed successfully this week. The link to access the Parent and Student Portal has been updated on the College Website, located under the 'e-portals' section. I encourage all parents and students to have a look at the new Sentral Interface.
Sentral remains our main Student Management System for attendance explanations, parent teacher interview bookings, and accessing reports, timetables, and daily notices.
We will only use Compass for excursions, permission and payments.
Qkr! remains available for making school fee payments and purchasing school uniforms and calculators until further notice.
Year 7 – 10 Progressive Assessment Tests (PAT)
Years 7 to 10 students will be completing their online Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT) for Reading and Mathematics in Week 5 and 6.
PAT assessments provide objective, norm-referenced information to teachers about their students’ skills and understandings in a range of key areas. Each PAT has its own proficiency scale with descriptors outlining the content and skills students are consolidating at any given point on that scale. Each PAT assessment provides data on student performance, making PAT ideal for understanding students’ current strengths and weaknesses, informing teaching and learning, and monitoring progress over the year. The tests are online, multiple choice and each test will take approximately 40 minutes. I encourage all students to do their best during these tests as the data will be used by their class teachers.
This weeks reminders
- HSC exams continue to take place during Weeks 3 and 4
- Good luck to students playing in the Berg/Downie Cricket Shield competition on Tuesday 24 October.
- There is a Pupil Free Day on Wednesday 25 October.
- The 2024 Senior Leaders will take part in their training days on Thursday 26 and Friday 27 October.
- The HSC Visual Art major works will be marked on Monday 30 and Tuesday 31 October.
- In-class exams for Year 10 begin in Week 4.
Sandra Harris
Admin Coordinator
ADF Information Session
Personnel from the Army and Air Force visited the college on 18 October 2023 to talk with students about future pathways and career options in the Australian Defence Force. Around 25 students from Years 7 - 11 attended the session where information about ADF opportunities including General Entry requirements, Gap Year options, studying at ADFA and the financial benefits offered to service personnel. For more information, pop into the Careers office and visit the ADF Careers website at www.adfcareers.gov.au
Free TAFE Course - Introduction to Community Services (Statement of Attainment)
TAFE is offering a fee-free Statement of Attainment in Introduction to Community Services. This 5 week virtual classroom off-campus course, commencing 24 October, is for people interested in working in the Community Services Industry. It can provide a pathway to different qualifications in the Health and Community Services sector.
Year 10 Work Experience - Weeks 8 and 9 this term
Year 10 students have the opportunity to participate in Work Experience in Weeks 8 and 9 this term (27 November - 8 December). Work Experience (WEX) is a valuable opportunity to gain insight into real-world work contexts and helps students to plan future study, training and career pathways. WEX is also a great opportunity to build networks for future employment opportunities. Students are urged to start identifying potential workplaces for WEX and contact employers. For assistance, advice and the necessary application forms, call into see Mrs Dalgleish or Ms Nicholson in the Careers office.
Calling First Nations students with a passion for STEM!
Unlock the incredible world of engineering at the Indigenous Australian Engineering School (IAES) in January 2024.
The IAES offers First Nations high school students the opportunity to come to Sydney and explore study and work opportunities within various fields of engineering. All costs including activities, accommodation, flights and meals are fully funded by Engineering Aid Australia and the University of Sydney.
IAES offers:
- A Fully sponsored week-long program
- Attendees can explore various engineering fields
- Site visits, cultural activities, and more
- Networking with industry professionals
- Recreational fun on Sydney Harbour
Eligibility: First Nations high school students in Years 10, 11 and 12 in 2024
Dates: 14-20 January 2024
Location: University of Sydney Camperdown Campus and partnering engineering based organisations
Application closing date: 20 October 2023
Online Application: https://sydney.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/
ADF Gap Year
Choosing to spend a year in the Australian Defence Force after you finish school as part of the ADF Gap year program is a popular post-HSC option. The ADF Gap program offers the chance to experience life in the Navy, Army or Air Force, where
you'll get paid for meaningful work while travelling around Australia, gaining skills for life, and making lifelong friends.
See the link below for more information:
https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/students-and-education/gap-year?
For more information about the opportunities listed above or for assistance completing applications etc, please pop into the Careers office at school, check Academic Care Google Classrooms or contact Ms Nicholson kerryn.hopkins@cg.catholic.edu.au or Mrs Dalgleish amy.dalgleish@cg.catholic.edu.au
Term 4 2023 fees will be issued next week and will be due 17 November 2023.
Thank you to families who have already made payments.
Payments can be made through BPay, Direct Debit, Qkr!, EFTPOS or Cash.
Should you have any queries or are experiencing any financial difficulties please contact our Business Manager Dalys Whipp at finance.ccb@cg.catholic.edu.au or 44715600.
Motorcycle Awareness Month is Here!
Motorcyclists are overrepresented in NSW road trauma. In 2021, Motorcyclists accounted for 21% of road fatalities, while motorcyclists only represented 10% of active licence holders in NSW.
Motorcycle and scooter riders face more risks on our roads as they are less protected than other road users.
Transport for NSW’s motorcycle safety program aims to increase rider safety and reduce rider road trauma by promoting compliance with road rules and safe riding practices, and by encouraging drivers to safely share the road with riders. Rules, riding technique and how to cope with hazards can all be found in the Motorcycle Riders Handbook.
