The school year has begun very well with our 2024 students beginning last week at the College. I commend our staff and students for their work with the new students, it was exemplary.

I also welcome over 20 new teaching, service and administrative staff to the College. We wish them well as they begin their Lauries Journey!

This week, we also held the first round of the Woody Cup. These are matches against the Old Boys and First teams at the College. On Thursday, our Old Boys defeated our First Volleyball squad. I thank all for their efforts on the day.

Also on Thursday, we held the AIC Ecumenical Service at St Peter’s Lutheran College. This is where the eight member schools and our guest College, Ambrose Treacy gather in prayer and fellowship to begin the season. Mr Eddie Walace is now the new AIC Executive Officer and we all wish him well. Fixtures begin this week in Volleyball, Cricket and AFL against Iona College. We also begin swim meets this Friday. I remind all community members of the need to always be humble when winning and to accept defeat graciously. It is also important that all boys renew their commitment to training and matches. At our College, approximately 1,500 students participate in sport over the course of the year. Enjoy the season!

It was necessary to postpone the Year 7 Camp this week due to poor conditions on the road and the flooding near the campsite. However, five Houses ventured to Camp Laurence on Wednesday and the remaining Year 7 cohort will attend camp from next Monday. I thank Ms Bell, Mr Burridge, our Heads of House and past students for supporting this experience.

We also presented our Year 12 leaders with their blazers following mass on Friday. Gianluca, Tayt, Harry and I are most excited about the 2024 school year.

As you are aware, I have been appointed as Regional Director for South Australia and Western Australia from Term 2 until the end of the 2024 school year. I thank Mr Ben Lowrie for accepting the role as Principal in my absence. I will conclude on Friday 8 March and move to Adelaide to fulfil the role. I leave this school, yet I am also excited to support the Edmund Rice mission in a different context. This is a nine month secondment.

I look forward to another exciting year.

MR CHRIS LEADBETTER

College Principal

Year 7 Retreat:

The first half of our Year 7 Retreat days took place on Tuesday with students from Rice, Sion, Treacy, Waterford and Xavier taking part. At the start of the day, we were privileged to hear from Mr John Hanley who works with the MND&ME foundation and who is also living with Motor Neuron Disease. John Hanley is a regular visitor to our College and we are always humbled by how open he is sharing his story with us. John’s story is one of positivity in the face of adversity and the ability to find God in all things in life.

Students spent the day rotating through a variety of activities from those in the Urban farm to navigating the challenges of College life. We look forward to our students from Callan- Nagle being involved on Monday. Year 7 students from Callan-Nagle are reminded to come in formal uniform on Monday and meet in the chapel after first bell.

Xavier House & Ronald McDonald House Charities:

Xavier House has started a new partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities. As part of this, three times per term, students from Xavier run a Kids Club. Students spend time with some of the children and families who are currently staying at the house and play a variety of games with them. It was heartening to see the way our students involved themselves and were able to bring a smile to some young faces.

East Timor Immersion 2024:

The East Timor Immersion takes place in the June holidays of 2024. Please see HERE for more information.

MR PAUL CORFIELD

Dean of Identity and Community

Academic Award Winners

Next Wednesday, we will be congratulating our Academic Award winners for their work in Semester 2, 2023. The list of Academic Award winners can be found HERE and will be displayed around the College. Award winners will be presented with their certificates during the upcoming Academic Assembly on Wednesday 7 February. Merit winners will be presented with their certificates on House assemblies later in the Term. We congratulate these students.

By way of criteria - to receive a Black award, students must achieve a GPA of at least 12 in the Primary & Middle School. In the Senior School, this changes to a GPA>70%. This means that Black Award winners are averaging a B+ across their subjects. There were 303 students in Semester 2 2023 who were awarded an Academic Black award.

To receive an Academic Gold Excellence Award, students must achieve a GPA of 13 or more (Primary/Middle) or >80% in the Senior School, which equates to an average grade of at least an A- across the subjects the student has studied. Determined from the academic efforts in Semester 2, 2023, there were 220 students who achieved a Gold Excellence Award. Furthermore, we congratulate students whose GPA has improved by more than 1.5 points which is the equivalent of improving by half an achievement level across all subjects. We will be congratulating all award winners at the Academic Assembly next Wednesday.

You may also note, the outstanding increase in academic award winners from 2018 (>50% increase). This demonstrates a positive shift in academic culture and an achievement to be celebrated.

2023 Senior Vocational Education and Training (VET) Data

At recent parent information nights – I presented the 2023 Senior data. We are extremely happy with these results and also ecstatic about the range of VET opportunities for students. In 2023, lAURIES awarded 515 Certificates from >15 certificate courses. I congratulate and thank all VET teachers and our Head of Faculty VET – Mr James McLaughlan (currently Mr Danny O’Sullivan) and his assistant Ms Merrin Rains for their efforts.

Middle School PAT 

Students in the middle school sat the PAT exam this week. This data enables us to triangulate sets of data to provide targeted advice and support to students. I thank students for their behaviour and efforts.

QCAA Endorsement

Heads of Faculty and Senior teachers have been working hard to submit our third Internal Assessment item to the QCAA for Endorsement. These should be endorsed over the next couple of weeks from teachers around the state, ready for the school to administer to Year 12 students later this year. Endorsement is part of the Quality Assurance process that is used by the QCAA to ensure assessment aligns with syllabus requirements.

Senior School parent information night

A reminder for students and parents in the Senior School (Years 10, 11 and 12), that we will be conducting a Parent Information night next Wednesday starting at 6pm. All Senior School families are welcome.

Thank you

I thank parents and students for the smooth start to the year. I pray that we can continue this positive start for the remainder of the year.

Conclusion

I wish all students participating in co-curricular activities the very best of luck this weekend.

Live Jesus in our hearts. . .  Forever!

DR LIAM HERBERT

Dean of Teaching and Learning

Career Counselling

For any students wanting to discuss career information, post-schooling pathways, job skills etc. please see Mrs Dyer in the Careers Office.

Phone: (07) 3010 1158 

Email: adyer@slc.qld.edu.au

Bond University Experience Days

Experiencing a university firsthand is the most effective way to determine if it's the right fit for you. Bond University provides a variety of immersive events and tailored experiences specifically designed for high school students. Whether engaging in competitions or earning credits towards both high school certification and a future degree, there are numerous avenues for students to delve into the university experience.

Click this link for more information and to register your interest:  Bond - Experience Day opportunties

Year 12 Extension Program

Get a head start on your studies with the Bond Year 12 Business and Math Extension Program which comprises fast-paced and fun two-day workshops designed to prepare you for university life. Faced with real-world situations, participants will hone their skills, problem solve and work collaboratively with their peers. The Extension Program is free of charge to students. Top performing students from the days will be awarded one of ten part-fee scholarships exclusive to the Year 12 Extension Program.

Click here for dates and times:  Year 12 Extension Program | Bond University

UniSQ Experience Days

 Exclusively for Years 11 and 12 students, Experience UniSQ Days gives future students the opportunity to explore our campuses, take part in specialised sessions in different study fields, and get a feel for student life at UniSQ.

If you are interested in attending, please register your interest here:  Experience UniSQ Days

Tuckwell Scholarship – Australian National University (ANU)

The Tuckwell Scholarship Program grants up to 25 scholarships annually, providing gifted and driven students with the chance to unlock their potential through financial assistance, personal growth and developmental opportunities. Students can build connections and gain insights from fellow recipients in our on-campus residence, Scholars House.

This scholarship spans three to five years of undergraduate study at ANU, with a value ranging from $76,000 to $136,000.

Academically high-achieving students who are open to the idea of studying interstate next year are encouraged to read through the terms of the scholarship and consider applying. 

Applications must be received before April 8th 2024,

NOTE: if a student applies and is successful, but changes their mind later, they are not obliged to go, so students who are unsure can still apply and consider their final decision around where they will study throughout the year.

SLConX

Preparations for this years’ SLConX Careers Networking Events are underway, with the topics for this year being:

• 12 March – Careers in Architecture, Design, Built Environment
• 28 May – Careers in Business, Finance, Law
• 23 July – Careers in Information Technology, Cyber Security, Web Design

A registration form to attend the first session will be sent out next week, both in the newsletter and via email.

Parents who are Old Boys and work in the above mentioned fields are encouraged to reach out to the Careers Office (careers@slc.qld.edu.au) if they would like to participate in any of the upcoming events.

Australian Defence Force Information Session

Interested to learn about the wide range of roles available in the Navy, Army and Air Force?

Join the upcoming information session and speak with current serving members about their own experiences. You'll have the chance to ask any questions you have about Australian Defence Force careers and opportunities.

It is highly recommended you book as soon as possible to avoid missing out as places are strictly limited.

Wednesday 7 February 6pm - 7pm at the Brisbane ADF Careers Centre (Level 8, 88 Tribune Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101)

Register here:  ADF Careers - Brisbane: Defence Careers Information Session

MS AMY DYER

Careers Counsellor

Year 7 Program

We are currently only at Week 2 of a new school year and already, nature has reminded us that we are not totally in charge and that flexibility and the ability to pivot are truly 21st century skills. Our Year 7 program was a testament to this with the wild weather forcing a change to camp, Retreat and the Academic Orientation dates. With the level of Lake Moogerah climbing to 106%, it meant that we also had to amend our program from water-based to land-based activities. Whilst I was worried about managing the disappointment of the students and staff attending, all showed great resilience and appreciated the opportunities that camp presented. I thank students and parents for taking the changes in their stride and slotting in with the new arrangements. Also, I would like to acknowledge the work by many of our staff to change bus bookings, communicate with parents, liaise with the camp program providers and much more to give students the chance to learn outside of a classroom.

As you are aware, Rice, Sion, Treacy, Waterford and Xavier Houses leave this Monday morning for their camp experience and I hope it is just as successful as that of the Houses from Callan to Nagle.

Year 12

This morning saw another significant milestone for our Year 12 cohort with their Opening Mass taking place. 

The 2024 Prefects were presented with their blazers which were blessed during Mass. It was a lovely occasion which was followed by a breakfast and great fellowship. Thank you to all who contributed to making such a meaningful morning for our Seniors.

Old Boy Contributions

One demonstration of how meaningful a Lauries Journey is becomes evident via the number of past students who continue to return to the College to assist with the Lauries Journey of our current cohorts. Over the last two weeks and indeed next week, we have had a large number of Old Boys return to assist. Firstly, a Year 5 and Year 7 Induction Mentor program saw past students return to help the newest Lauries boys settle in. They helped Year 5 and Year 7 students before school, during classes and at break times find their feet and some friendships. This assistance then extended through to Year 7 camp. The newest members of our community and our staff, found this help invaluable.  

Round 1 Competition

We wish all students participating this weekend all the very best for Round 1.

All the very best for the coming week.

MS VANESSA BELL

Dean of Middle School

Thank you and Good Luck! AIC Term 1 Sport Begins

This Friday, the 2024 AIC Sport Season officially begins with Lauries playing against Iona in AFL, Cricket and Volleyball. It has been a busy and hectic preseason, with all teams having trainings and trials, to prepare themselves for this season of sport. I would like to extend a big thankyou to all the coaches, managers and Directors of Sport for the countless hours you have put in preparing our teams and giving our students the best opportunity to do well this week.

This week also our Swimming will also officially begin, with Iona College hosting a unique teams event! Iona will team up with Lourdes Hill College, and Lauries will team up with Loretto and it is sure to be a fantastic and fun afternoon of competition at Iona. Thank you to all involved in the organisation of this unique event and best of luck to all our swimmers.

Keep your eye on the App!

Term One is always a bust time of the year for sport and this year is no different. Not only do we have our Term 1 sports in competition, but we also have Term Two sports in preparation and a lot of School Representative Sport beginning. Please make sure you keep up to date with what is happening in all Lauries sport, via our School App.

MR PATRICK BYRON

Head of Sport

Ensemble Rehearsals and Instrumental Music Lessons  

All rehearsals and lessons commenced this week. If you’ve not yet received any information regarding your lesson or rehearsal time, please contact the Music Department.

Music Communications 

The Music Department will this year use the College App as our main point of contact with families.  

We have redefined the groups under Music and do ask you take a couple of minutes to update your subscriptions to ensure you receive the relevant notifications for this ensemble. 

Parents will also be able to use Parent Lounge to see which ensembles are relevant for their family.  

To view, please select ‘Extra Curricular’ under the ‘Student Details’ tab.  

Little Brotherhood: Singing Surfin’ Safari Camp Invitation (17-18 Feb) 

Little Brotherhood will once again be travelling down the coast for their annual Singing Surfin’ Safari.  

An invitation has been sent to members of the group through parent lounge. Please note places for the camp are limited, so don’t miss out.  

LMSG Trivia Night: Heroes vs Villains (23 Feb) 

Tickets are now on sale for the Lauries Music Support Group’s 2024 Music Trivia Night: Heroes vs Villains. Join us and test your knowledge across a wide range of categories, including the famous music round.  

To purchase tickets click here:  https://SLC2020.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/117238  

SLC Old Boys and Community Choir Season  

An invitation to parents, family members, friends, current and former staff, Old Boys to join this year’s SLC Old Boys and Community Music Season for 2024. There will be an Old Boys Choir, Guitar Orchestra and String Ensemble. Rehearsals will commence next Monday 29 January at the times below:

• 5.30pm for Guitar Orchestra in MU1(Top Floor of VAPA building).  
• 6pm - String Ensemble in the String Hub.  
• 6pm for Community Choir in the Chapel; and   
• 6.30pm for the Old Boys Choir in the ERPAC singing room.    

Rehearsals will run for six weeks concluding with the Old Boys and Community Music Concert on Monday 11 March at St Ignatius Church, Toowong.

Simply use these links to sign up:  

Old Boys Choir: https://forms.gle/hxPKwVUEofFCEFCL9 

Community Choir: https://forms.gle/HDxiaSEqhzrNkTNw7 

Lauries Music Support Group Meeting Tuesday 6 February 6pm Music Department:   

Room MU1 (Top floor VAPA building).  

A great way to support your son at SLC is by joining the parent’s music support group. Meetings are once a month on the second Tuesday of each month (term time). Meetings are informal, generally less than an hour long and a great way to hear the details and help with the planning of upcoming music events! If you are unable to make the meetings but available to help at concerts/events, join the group so you can be on our email list and be kept up to date. Please contact the Music Department if you have any questions.  

Holiday Music Happenings  

It was wonderful to have Lauries staff, students, parents and Old Boys singing and playing the Christmas masses at St Ignatius Church Toowong. Lauries staff, Dr Young, Mr Brown and Mr Leinenga are all music ministers for the Parish.    

We had a wonderful response from both staff and students for the 2024 International Summer School, which was hosted by Lauries in the first weeks of January. Both teachers and students travelled from across the globe to further their musical studies in Opera, Jazz, Composition, Music Theatre, Music Education, piano & instrumental music. Our own Dr Anthony Young taught choral conducting and musicianship.

2024 Music Events

Please view all upcoming Music Events HERE.

Please contact the music department: music@slc.qld.edu.au or telephone 3010 1138 if you have any questions regarding the music program.

Strike up the Band!

MR ROSS CAPERN

Head of Instrumental Music

Students in Years 8 - 11 who are interested in joining the Cadets Photography Program are encouraged to email the Communications Office on communications@slc.qld.edu.au

These students will be able to photograph sport, concerts and other College events and have their work published on the College's social media account, Lauries Magazines and Annuals.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The College has partnered with the Australian Homestay Network (AHN) to facilitate safe, supportive homestay placements for students.

To find out more information, please see the attachment HERE.

Volunteer opportunities for "St Laurence's College Canteen Volunteers - Term 1 2024" are now open.

Please click on the web link HERE to go to the signup sheet.

To sign up, just follow the instructions on the page - thank you for volunteering!

At the time of enrolment, parents/guardians are given the opportunity to elect not to have their child identified (photographed and/or named) in College related publications and on digital platforms. Should you wish for your child to not be identified for safety/privacy reasons, please email communications@slc.qld.edu.au. A member of College staff will be in contact with you to discuss further. 

Applications for Enrolment for entry in Year 7 2026 are now open!

Enrol HERE  for Year 7 at Lauries!

This event is organised by mums for mums! It is a great opportunity to meet other SLC mums and start sharing the journey of raising Laurie’s Boys. Feel free to get a group of mums together, or please feel brave enough to make the journey by yourself if you're new at the school. We promise you'll leave on Sunday with a new set of friends from all year levels.

Ticket price includes 2 nights accommodation and all meals.

Tickets on sale Tuesday, 30 January 2024 9am! $230 per person

Please find the ticketing link HERE.

There is a limit of 3 tickets per transaction and bookers will be asked to fill in a Questionnaire for each attendee.

Check-In from 4:30pm Friday 8 March
Check-Out is 10:00am Sunday 10 March

Further details will follow by email shortly after the ticket closing date. 

If you have any immediate questions, please email slcmotherscamp@gmail.com

There will be no refunds on tickets purchased (unless the camp is cancelled).

Tickets for the 2024 Lauries Autumn Lunch are now sale!

Come and celebrate your Lauries Journey with us at The Greek Club on Sunday 24 March! After selling out in less than an hour in 2023, be sure to get in quick!

Tickets are priced at $95 each (or $950 for a table of 10)

Purchase your tickets here: https://slc2020.sales.ticketse...

Please see HERE a message from the Mater Parent Aide Unit.

Volunteer opportunities for "St Laurence's College Canteen Volunteers - Saturday 3 February" are now open.

Please click on the web link HERE to go to the signup sheet.

To sign up, just follow the instructions on the page - thank you for volunteering!