Dear Parents and Carers,

A Memorable Week!

It was a truly remarkable and joyous occasion last week as we gathered to welcome our parents and carers to our two presentations, celebrating the successes of all students from Kindergarten to Year 6 in 2023.  

The highlight of the presentations was undoubtedly the memorable singing with catchy actions. The students had been practicing tirelessly for days, and their hard work paid off as they delivered outstanding performances that left everyone in awe. The songs were not only entertaining but also served as a reminder of the unity within our school community.

Beyond the musical performances, we took time to recognize the many achievements of our students over the course of 2023. While not every student could receive an award during these presentations, it was important for us to celebrate those who excelled in certain areas. Whether it be academic excellence, sporting achievements, or artistic talents, each student's accomplishments were acknowledged and applauded.

Moreover, these celebrations served as a reminder of the importance of community. We emphasized that success is not solely measured by individual achievements but also by how we support and uplift one another. Our school prides itself on fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity among all its members.

We took time to thank our amazing staff members - all of the amazing teachers, support assistants, front office staff and managers of the school grounds, canteen and uniform shop.  Their passion for education and the children is evident in tireless efforts to create a nurturing learning environment for all. They go above and beyond their call of duty, ensuring that every child receives the attention they deserve. 

 In today's fast-paced world, it is often easy to overlook the small gestures of kindness and support that make a significant impact on our lives. We are fortunate each and very day to witness firsthand our outstanding students who brighten our day with their friendly chats in the corridors and on the playground. 

Our students, with their infectious smiles and genuine interest in connecting with others, remind us why we love being at St Joseph’s.

We took time to also thank our network of parents, carers, grandparents, and extended family members who played an integral role in the growth and development of your child.

To all those who held stopwatches during sports events, served behind the counter at the canteen or attended community council meetings, your commitment did not go unnoticed. Your unwavering support helped create an atmosphere where our students thrived academically and emotionally.

Furthermore, we would be remiss if we did not mention the incredible turnout we experienced at our recent "Back to the 80s" performance. The fact that 800 seats were ‘booked out’ on the night speaks volumes about the level of engagement and enthusiasm within our school community.

In conclusion, last week's presentations were truly wonderful. They showcased not only the talents and accomplishments of our students but also reinforced the significance of unity within our school community. It was an unforgettable event that will be cherished by all who attended.

Congratulations to Indie Champion

The school community were very excited to hear the news when Mrs Scott announced Indie Champion was the Canberra Goulburn-Junior Female Sportsperson of the Year.   

Indie was not only impressive on the AFL field as a player but also received praise due to her qualities of encouragement, leadership, and humility. Indie not only gained selection in the NSWSPSSA team but also had her leadership abilities recognised and ultimately was honoured with the co-captaincy position of the NSWPSSA Australian Football team.  Indie was credited for her significant role she played, both as a player and a Captain of the side and was additionally recognised with a NSWCPS Maroon Award for AFL from Catholic Schools NSW Sport.

Thankyou to JADE MARKS  and EMMA TRELOAR  

We took time for Tamara Craig- Chair of our Community Council to do  a special presentation to MRS JADE MARKS and EMMA TRELOAR. For those not aware both have been involved with St Joseph's for the whole time of their children being at St Joseph’s as committee members of the P and F, School Board and up to this year the Community Council. Jade was the School Board Chair, Emma was the P and F President and was instrumental in the combining of both P and F and the Board into one. Their leadership and support to our school community have been instrumental in others taking on these particular roles. 

Leaders- 2023 and 2024

Last week we also recognised the outstanding leadership skills of our 2023 school leaders Eliza Cain, Sonny Young, Annika Brown and Noah Treloar- We were reminded they demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to making a positive impact within our community. They had shown initiative in organizing various community service projects. Their tireless efforts have not only benefited those in need but have also inspired their peers to get involved and make a difference.

Moving towards next year our school community were reminded how we were very proud of each and everyone of our Year 5 students who put their hand up to be a leader and we took time to announce our new 2024 Leaders.   

2024 School Captains  Laila Champion and Sam McPherson               

2024 Vice Captains Florence Douglas and Oscar Rice     

2024 Fatima house captains are Scarlett Lang and Louis Pace       

2024 Loreto house captains are  Lucy Croker and Will Miners .   

2024 Lourdes house captains are Ari Boyd and Charlie Ferguson . 

2024 Madonna house captains are Marlee Taylor and Liam Charles.

We also presented our Major Award recipients for 2023

• St Joseph’s School Dux Annika Brown

• St Joseph’s School Centenary Christian Living Award- Mikaela Crockford

• Mayor’s Community Pride Award- Annika Brown

• Excellence in Visual and Creative Arts- Tina Chen

• Barry O Neill Memorial Citizenship Award- Florence Douglas and Marlee Taylor

• Writing Award -Laura Smith and Ellie Tomlinson

• Mathematics Award- Nathen Chhea

• Gannon family Perseverance Award- Olivia Tuhua  

• Library Award- Izabella Moore

• Public Speaking Award -Florence Douglas and Charlotte Brown

• Chess Award- Olivia Tarnowski

• Tim Hartnett Excellence in Sport Award -Indie Champion and Noah Treloar

• Enthusiastic Participation in Sport Award- Jack Croker

• Overall Winning House for all carnivals- Lourdes’

• House Spirit award- Loretto

Our CLASS AWARDS recipients for 2023

• Christian Living- Lara Gilding / Harrison Newing-Roberts / Isla Arcia / Gabriel Cilia / Brooke Lees / Ivan Pearce / Olivia Owen / Mikaela Crockford / Indie Champion and Jedd Miners   

• Academic Achievement -Oliver Fife / Fraser Taylor / Jack Harris / Alicia Bogg / Rupert Whalan / Scarlett Dillon / Arianwen Edwards / Marlee Taylor /  Annika Brown and Laura Smith 

• Effort and Application- Olivia Tarnowski / Will Holgate / Lana Silva / Ella-Rose Gerstner / Florence Douglas / Asha Morgan / Jack Croker and Xin (Tina) Chen 

• Most Improved- Jane Wang / Hamish Carlon / Scarlett-Rose Clifford / Lachlan Brook / Ari Boyd / Olivia Alchin / Ellie Tomlinson and Oliver Tuhua

 We recognised-

-students who have made contributions to the Catholic Life of the School: -Annika Brown, Charlotte Brown, Clara Costigan, Vincent Cilia, Gabriel Cilia,  Jay Shepherd, Nathen Chhea, Alicia Bogg and Sebastian Ariss.

-Students were recognised on behalf of the Goulburn Local Aboriginal Education group for contributions made to their school and local community :-Isaac Skelly, Indie Champion and Charles Jorgensen 

-Sporting honours across the Archdiocese of Canberra Goulburn this year. Congratulations to-

• Sam McPherson / Florence Douglas / Bethany Holmes / Maddison Skelly / Clara Costigan -representing Mackillop at the NSW PSSA Hockey
• Sophie Quade -representing Mackillop at the NSW PSSA Swimming
• Indie Champion- representing Mackillop in Athletics and NSW in AFL
• Noah Treloar - representing Mackillop in Athletics and AFL

 We will miss your 'fun-loving' approach!

 Our Year 6 students have made remarkable progress academically and have shown tremendous growth socially. This group of students is exceptionally talented and possesses a wonderful sense of humour.

The students' resilience throughout the years, such as during the Covid pandemic, was evident in the face of challenges as they never gave up and always persevered. These young individuals have shown remarkable strength and determination in navigating through unprecedented times.

One aspect that truly impressed me about this group is their self-motivation. They took ownership of their learning and constantly sought ways to improve themselves. It was inspiring to witness their dedication and drive.

Moreover, these students are fun-loving individuals who know how to enjoy life. Their wonderful sense of humor brightened up our classroom every day.  

Their friendly nature, cooperation, resilience, self-motivation, and sense of humor make them an extraordinary group of students who will undoubtedly achieve great things in the future.

We will bid farewell to this exceptional group of learners and celebrate their achievements with a Mass at the Cathedral at 9.45 am followed by the Ceremony of Light at 12 pm in the St Joseph's School Hall, followed by a luncheon provided by Year 5 families. We also wish our departing families who are not returning to the St Joseph's Community the very best and thankyou for your support over the past seven years. 

Thankyou and best wishes-Dana, Gerard and Emily

St Joseph's School would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs Dana White, Youth Minister Gerard Teng, and teacher Mrs Emily Delaney for their unwavering dedication and commitment throughout the year.

Mrs Dana White has been an integral part of our school community, providing guidance and support to both students and staff. Her passion for education and her ability to connect with young minds have left an indelible mark on all those she has encountered. We are truly grateful for her contributions and eagerly await her return in 2025.

Youth Minister Gerard Teng has been a source of inspiration for our students, instilling in them values of compassion, empathy, and resilience. His efforts in getting to know our students and staff have created a nurturing environment where our students can thrive spiritually. As he embarks on new adventures next year, we wish him success in his studies.

Teacher Emily Delaney has worked tirelessly across multiple classes within the school, leaving an enduring impact on countless students. Her dedication to fostering a love for learning is commendable, and we are thrilled that she will be taking on a full-time classroom teaching role at Ss Peter and Paul's.

Dana will be embarking on a new teaching role at St Mary's Crookwell for 2024. We extend our warmest wishes to her as she embraces this new opportunity.

We are immensely grateful for the contributions made by you all over the course of 2023. As you embark on new adventures next year, we wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Disco

Privilege Students

Congratulations to the following Week 10 Privilege Students Josh B, Billie B, James P, Alana B, Flynn C and Annika B.

May God bless you and your families during our Christmas break, and we look forward to working with the families returning in 2024.

Matthew Mullins
Principal

The Graduation Mass will be held in the Ss Peter and Paul's Cathedral, Friday 15th December, starting at 9:45 am. K-6 will be bussed to and from the Cathedral, with the Ceremony of Light held in the School Hall, commecing at 12 pm. K-5 will wear their sports uniform as per normal, but Year 6 are requested they wear their Summer Academic Uniform. More details were sent out in a Compass post the other week. If you did not receive this, please email sasha.cady@cg.catholic.edu.au and I will forward the deatils onto you.

In 2024, both Year 3 & Year 4 will make their Reconciliation in Term 1, with the Year 4 children making their First Holy Communion in Term 2. Because of this, to save the Year 4 parents attending two Enrolment Nights, First Holy Communion will be combined with the Reconciliation Enrolment Night. Please note, the Enrolment Night is Week 3! The Enrolment Nights are attended by the parents, with children optional.

The Preparation Lessons for all Sacraments will be at 4 pm in OLOF. Parents can stay for the sessions if they wish. Commitment to Sacraments involves attendance to all Preparation Sessions, weekend Masses and Reflections Days.

Like always, Sacraments are organised through the Parish, and if you have any queries, please contact them on 0403 631 797 or email goulburn@cg.org.au . These Sacraments are for children Baptised Catholic. If your child is interested in making their Sacraments, please contact the Presbytery regarding a Catholic Baptism.

Reconciliation

• Enrolment Night 15th February 2024, OLOF
• Preparation Sessions Thursday 4pm OLOF, 22nd Feb- 14th March
• Sacrament 21st March, OLOF, 7pm

First Holy Communion

• Enrolment Night 15th February 2024, OLOF - combined with Reconciliation
• Preparation Sessions Thursday 4pm OLOF, 2nd-23rd May
• Reflection Day 30th May @ St Joseph’s Primary
• Sacrament 1st & 2nd June

Confirmation

• Enrolment Night 8th August, OLOF 
• Preparation Sessions Thursday 4pm OLOF, 15th August - 12th September
• Reflection Day 19th September @ SPP Primary
• Sacrament 21st & 22nd September

The Opening School Mass will be held the 2nd day back in 2024, Friday 2nd February, Week 1, in OLOF, starting at 9:30 am.

During this Mass, all Leadership Badges will be blessed by Father, with School Captains and House Captains to receive their badges at this Mass. Traditionally, a parent or family member has been in attendance at this Mass, and is invited to come forward to pin the badge on their child/relative.

All other Badges: SRC, Library Monitors and Mini Vinnies, will have their badges presented to them, Friday 9th February, Week 2, at the Friday Morning Assembly, in the Blue Sails area, starting at 9:05 am. As with the other leadership positions, a family member or relative will be invited to come pin their leadership badge on.

Please note, any child whose family member can not attend either the Mass or Assembly, a School Representative will pin the badge on the student, or if they have a sibling at the school.