This week we celebrated our Academic achievements from 2023. 64 of our Year 12 class from 2023 achieved an ATAR of above 90. These young men were presented to our assembly. We also acknowledged the Gold and Black award winners from Years 5 - 11, 2023. There has been a significant increase in the number of students being awarded academic excellence and growth awards since 2018. This is great to see!

Our three major award winners were:

Dux: Zack Lamarca

Proxime Accessit: Miguel Galarion

Br Spillane Memorial: Kai Klisanin

Zack addressed the assembly with a sense of gratitude for his loving family, his great friends and the staff who supported his Lauries Journey. In the afternoon, we held an afternoon tea for the parents of the boys who received Gold awards. I thank Dr Herbert and Ms Harris for their work in organising these events.

During the week, we also conducted our Senior Information evening, Principal’s tours and a Manchester City Information evening. I thank Mr Knight for coordinating our Senior night. A copy of the night will be available to all Senior parents.

On Thursday evening, over 200 people attended our first round of Principal’s Tours. Over 200 guests also attended our Manchester City information evening. Ms Helen Turner and the Marketing team co-ordinated the Principal’s Tours. I thank our student guides from Years 9 – 12 who assisted on the night. Mr Jamie Davis, our Manchester City Football Coach spoke to parents following the tours on the program. We were also delighted that Mr Tony Byrne, Head of Football Pathways at Manchester City Football, was able to livestream in from the Football Academy in Manchester. It was a great evening and I thank Mr Byron for co-ordinating the night.

On Friday morning, Fr William Aupito Iuliano celebrated mass for the Primary students. The Chapel was overflowing. The celebration was excellent and we welcome Fr William Aupito Iuliano, who has only been at Dutton Park for two weeks, to his new parish. We look forward to seeing Fr William at our College in years to come.

We pray for members of our community who are ill, in particular Ms Crystal Kennedy and Ms Lesley Bongaarts who are both on leave. We wish them well in the coming weeks.

MR CHRIS LEADBETTER

College Principal

Ash Wednesday

Our Ash Wednesday Liturgy will take place next week during Admin classes. Students will assemble in their Houses for a short liturgy before receiving the Ashes on their forehead. The students approach the student or staff member and bow their heads and a sign of the cross is made on their forehead using the ashes. On Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent, we receive the ashes on our foreheads which reminds us that we believe Jesus is the source of all life; that just as the bush burns and ash falls to the ground and seeds of new life are sown, so too does our new life come from Jesus.

College Mass

On Wednesday, we will also celebrate our first whole College Mass for the year. This is always an exciting occasion. We are truly blessed to be in a community where all students and staff participate so wholly in the mass. The mass is also an occasion for us to welcome a new parish priest from Dutton Park-West End Fr William Aupito Iuliano into our community. He will celebrate the mass with 1974 Old Boy Fr Gerry Kalinowski who we always welcome back to help us celebrate our masses.

Primary Mass: 

On Friday Morning, our Primary school students celebrated their first mass of the year in the College Chapel. We were also joined by some of our Year 12 leaders and Peer Mentors who play an important part in the early part of our Primary school students' Lauries Journey. It was heartening to see such strong numbers.

College Sacramental Program

After having such success last year with our inaugural sacramental program, we are pleased to announce we will be running the program again this year. This is the RCIA Program and all students from Years 5-12 wanting to undertake any of the sacraments including Baptism, Confirmation, penance and First Communion are welcome to take part. The training usually takes place during Lauries Journey lessons to allow flexibility for our students and families. A letter will be sent out in the coming weeks and we hope to hear from any families wanting to be guided through their sacraments.

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Day

As we prepare for the Lenten season, it has been a common tradition to celebrate this period by feasting on pancakes. Here at Laurie is no different. We invite all students to take part in this day by purchasing pancakes on Tuesday 13 February.

Pancakes will be sold for a dollar each or 3 for $2 on the quad before school at 8am and then again at morning tea.

All proceeds will go to Caritas who are currently supporting humanitarian needs in Gaza and Ukraine. Students can purchase these pancakes with cash or EFTPOS.

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

SLConX

Preparations for this year’s 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

Information has been sent via email to parents and students and you can register your attendance via this form: SLConX - Registration form

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.

Senior External Examinations

Any students in Year 12 who are proficient in a language other than English may have the opportunity to complete the subject as a Senior External Examination. Successfully completing one of these subjects means that it can contribute to a student’s ATAR, will gain them 4 QCE credits and may also provide adjustment factors for university entry. The language subjects offered are:

• Arabic
• Indonesian
• Korean
• Latin
• Modern Greek
• Polish
• Punjabi
• Russian
• Tamil
• Vietnamese

Applications for this are open until 30 April 2023 – you must register through the school. The cost to enrol for a Senior External Examination is $73.46, which is paid to the school. Interested students are asked to email careers@slc.qld.edu.au as soon as possible or come into the Careers Office.

UCAT – Medicine, Dentistry and Clinical Sciences

For any students interested in Medicine, Dentistry and Clinical Sciences as a school leaver both in Queensland and interstate.

This test aids universities in identifying candidates possessing the essential abilities and professional behaviours crucial for success in the clinical careers of aspiring doctors and dentists. The UCAT ANZ is used in conjunction with other admission procedures like interviews and academic qualifications.

For further information on UCAT, please refer to their website. Here you will find information relating to:

• Eligibility
• Key dates
• Practice tests / Test formats
• Assessment tools
• Booking your test

Various organisations offer UCAT and Interview preparation and resources for a fee, such as MedEntry. While not mandatory, participating in these programs can offer students valuable opportunities to enhance their preparation.

Key Dates

The following information regarding key dates will aid your organisation and preparation.

Bookings open:  Tuesday 5 March 2024

Bookings close: Friday 17 May 2024 at 11:59pm

Late booking close: Friday 31 May 2024 at 11:59pm

Final booking deadline: Wednesday 5 June 2024 at 11:59pm

Testing period: 1 July - 9 August 2024

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.

New York Film Academy Australia

Join in for Online Open House event where you will have the opportunity to learn about programs, admissions requirements, financial aid and scholarships for our graduate, undergraduate, conservatory and adult short term workshops. During the presentation, NYFA’s admissions team will be available to answer any questions that you may have.

NYFA’s Youth Programs (for ages 10 – 17) will also be sharing information on youth programs, locations, application, and enrolment processes and much more.

Register your interest here: Open House & Live Online Events - NYFA

Preparing for SAT for 2024 entry into USA College

If you want to study in the USA, you may need to sit the SAT exam. Sitting for exams is stressful at any time, however, the SAT exam is different from school exams so it is best to spend time preparing for and practising using past test papers. Crimson, The College Board and Khan Academy provide free SAT practice resources for building confidence and reducing the stress of SAT preparation. Click here for more options.

Competitions

IM2C International Mathematical Modeling challenge

IM2C International Mathematical Modeling Challenge is a team competition that aims to promote mathematical modelling to solve problems of real-world importance. In teams, students work collaboratively to solve a problem by devising and applying an original mathematical model. Registrations open on Thursday 1 February and close on Monday 25 March. Click here for more information and registration details.

Lions Youth of the Year competition now open

If you are a student between the ages of 15 and 18 years of age as of the 30 June 2024, then you may be eligible to enter the Lions Youth of the Year public speaking competition. The competition aims to recognise the achievements of young people in Australian communities in education, sports, community service and public speaking. Click here to find more competition details and click here to enter. Entries close soon so don't miss out!

QUT's BlueShift business case competition

BlueShift is a business case competition for secondary school students. You will work in small teams to develop real business solutions for a real business. Teams of three or four analyse a real business challenge and prepare a written solution to the business case. Registrations close on Tuesday 27 February and teams will know their business case on Wednesday 28 February. Written submissions are due 24 April. Click here for more details including:

• Competition details
• Registration
• Key dates
• How to enter
• Preparing for the competition
• Prizes

The Rubbish Film Festival film competition

The competition's theme is Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12 & 13 revolving around two key SDGs:

• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production: Explore responsible consumption and production practices. Advocate for more sustainable lifestyles and the reduction of waste in your films.
• SDG 13: Climate Action: Address the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on our planet. Explore solutions, raise awareness, and inspire action to combat climate-related challenges.

The competition submissions close on Friday 1 March. Click here to find out:

• About The Rubbish Film Festival
• Why Participate?
• Competition Details
• Judging Criteria
• How to Participate

MS AMY DYER

Careers Counsellor

I would like to warmly welcome both new and existing parents and students back to our community for what promises to be an exciting year. I trust that you have been able to engage with the information evenings and know that the staff at the College are here to support your son/s.

Year 7 Program & Camp 

Thank you to the Heads of House, Ms Vanessa Bell and Mr Nathan Burridge (Head of Wellbeing and Student Engagement) for the effort and energy they have put into creating a positive and enriching environment for our Year 7’s during their first few weeks – including camp and their alternate program. The laughter, camaraderie and shared moments during camp will leave a lasting impact on the lives of our newest students in Senior School. The staff contributions helped foster a sense of community and adventure that will stay with our young men as they continue their educational journey.

As we reflect on the first three weeks of our Year 7’s, we are grateful for the efforts of all staff who have contributed to creating a safe and enjoyable experience for our students 

Year 12 Transport Buddies

I would like to congratulate our Year 12’s for the way in which they have started this year. We have been receiving some wonderful messages from parents of Year 5 and 7 and members of the public, who are amazed at how our Year 12’s care for them, both in their Home room, as well as on public transport. 

I would like to share this email from a member of the public regarding the conduct of our Senior Students.

To whom it may concern, 

I had the pleasure this afternoon of witnessing one of your Senior boys on the X bus route, mentoring your younger students on bus etiquette and ensuring that they got home safely. 

The Senior boy told me that this was a program you did pairing up Seniors with grade sevens to ensure they know how to ride the bus home. 

Can I just say this Senior was brilliant with them. Asked them about their day, and also educated them on the etiquette of riding a bus. 

It was beautiful and uplifting, and you should be very proud that you were creating wonderful Male leaders for our future generations. 

Thank you so much. 

Year 10 Performance

On Thursday this week, our Year 10’s witnessed a drama production called ‘The Stones’.

Based on a true story, The Stones is about risk taking behaviour and the pain of guilt when things go too far. The play places the audience in the position of a jury where they must consider whether the boys are responsible for their actions, or too young to know what they were doing.

Hopefully our Year 10’s can take what they learned in the production for some of their future decisions.

Mobile Phones

Each student is required to lock their mobile phone in their locker between the hours of 8.30am and 3pm, unless given special permission by their HOH (e.g. a medical condition). Student’s phones will be given to the Pastoral Precinct if found in their possession and can be collected after school. A consequence may also be given by their HOH.

I wish all parents and students the very best in starting the new year and as always,

Live Jesus in our Hearts. . .  Forever

MR DAVID KNIGHT

Dean of Pastoral Care - Senior School

Lauries Music Support Group (LMSG)

It was lovely to see many new faces at our first Lauries Music Support Group meeting earlier this week.

The LMSG Group meet usually on the first Tuesday of each month from 6pm - 7pm to assist with preparations for the different music events throughout the year. Their next meeting will be held Tuesday 5 March and we welcome any parents or guardians who would like to attend.

LMSG Trivia Night: Heroes vs Villains (23 Feb)

Tickets are 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

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

Around the Grounds – Sports Wrap Up

Last week Lauries officially began our 2024 Sports Season, with Round 1 games against Iona College. It was a mixed weekend of results across our sports, however the College did very well in AFL, winning all Aggregate Games. 

In Volleyball, it was a case of close but not close enough! We had some excellent results in our Year 10 and 11 age groups, however in many of our other games, despite an outstanding effort by the boys, the College had numerous close loses. In Cricket, it was similar again, with some very strong performances from most teams, however, Iona was good enough to win the day.

This week, the College is playing St Peter’s Lutheran College, with our Senior Teams playing at Home and our Junior teams at away venues. 

Good luck to all the teams involved. 

Representative Sport – 2024

Rep season is well and truly on our doorstep, with many district and Met East teams trialling in Term 1. Please make sure you keep up to date with the app, to ensure that you don’t miss out on any Representative Trial information. 

MR PATRICK BYRON

Head of Sport

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!

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.

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

For those interested in being involved with the Lauries Community Committee, the first meeting of 2024 will be taking place on Monday 12 February from 6-8pm.

Please use the link HERE to attend the meeting on the night.

We look forward to seeing you there!