Currently, we are in the process of completing enrolment interviews for Year 7 2026. We also had approximately 60 students apply for the Manchester City Football School at St Laurence’s College. Enrolment pressures are strong at the moment for places in both Year 5 and Year 7, 2026. Offers for Year 7, 2026 will be sent out in the week beginning March 8. We hope to finalise enrolments for Year 7, 2026 by the end of this term. Year 5, 2026 enrolments will be finalised in Term 3.

On Wednesday afternoon, we also welcomed over 40 families to our regular Principal’s Tours. I hope that all enjoyed the experience and again, our students are our best asset as they lead tours of the College.

Opportunities at Lauries

Throughout this week, we have been able to affirm excellence in many areas of College life. On assembly, we presented students awards for excellence in Music and Sport. Ms Flanagan also announced the leadership team for our Primary Mini Vinnies program. Service begins in Year 5 at this school. 

In 2024, we will be involved in an Edmund Rice Education renewal process. A task is to write a Principal’s report. I was able to reflect on the multiple educational pathways that we offer, as well as the many innovative programs offered. We are delighted when boys engage with their community as this leads to academic success and a sense of belonging. I think all staff who commit to this mission.

The anniversary of the National Apology

On Wednesday, our assembly focussed on the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations. On February 13 2008, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd offered a formal apology to Australia’s Indigenous people, particularly the stolen generations on behalf of the Australian Government. This apology affected many people greatly including staff member, Ms Emma Serico whose grandparents were members of the Stolen Generation. I thank Ms Serico for sharing her story. I highlighted the importance and the sacredness of an individual’s story. Each journey is different and all deal with challenges and sometimes trauma over time. Our pastoral and mentoring processes are designed to ensure that our students’ stories are known.

I affirm the work of Mr Kelsey Doyle and Ms Serico in supporting all students, particularly our First Nation students. I hope that we all feel included and valued at St Laurence’s College.

I offer my best wishes to all students on the weekend as we participate in Round 4 of AIC fixtures against St Patrick’s College. I also thank the Music Supporters group and the music Staff for hosting our Trivia night this Friday.

MR CHRIS LEADBETTER

College Principal

Year 8 Loreto Twilight Retreat - Friday 1 March 4pm-7pm

An opportunity is available for up to 20, Year 8 students who would like to be part of a Twilight retreat afternoon with the students of Loreto College. This is a completely voluntary program and you do not have to attend if you do not wish to. We would prefer students who want to be there and will participate fully. The event takes place next Friday 1 March 4pm-7pm

Loreto College has invited Year 8 students from Villanova and Lauries to be part of this and we would love to have some of our Year 8’s representing St Laurence’s College.

The theme of the Retreat is “Being Yourself” and gives students a chance to look at having self-awareness and self-understanding as the key to leading meaningful lives. You will engage in workshops and conversations with the Loreto and Villanova students. 

This is a great opportunity to engage with students from other schools. The afternoon begins at 4pm and finishes by 7pm. School will provide transport to Loreto College and we ask students to be picked up from there by 7pm. If your son would like to be part this could you please respond. https://forms.office.com/r/3rK6yb7PLm.

East Timor Immersion June 14-30

There are still spots open for students in Years 10 - 12 to have the unique privilege of experiencing East Timor. The immersion will take place from June 15 -June 30 2024. The aim is to develop students by participating in a transformational educational experience that teaches them about issues facing our world. The immersion challenges our students to nurture a Gospel spirituality and challenges us to embrace a church of, with and for the poor. Students will be guided by local students who will give them an insight into their personal story and the daily challenges they face. By participating in service projects such as visits to schools, villages and medical centres and advocacy projects sponsored by Edmund Rice Foundation Australia, we learn to become voices for justice.

If your son is interested in being part of this unique opportunity please respond at the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/5kkri2Pkwg

MR PAUL CORFIELD

Dean of Identity and Community

NAPLAN Reminders

A reminder that the College will conduct a NAPLAN Practice Test next Wednesday 28 February for Year 7 and Year 9 students in preparation for the actual tests in Week 8 (Wednesday 13 March to Monday 18 March – College Main Testing Period). Year 7 and Year 9 parents will be sent an email detailing procedures and specific information closer to the actual testing dates.

The SLC NAPLAN Testing Schedule can be found [here].

Your assistance with helping to prepare our students for the NAPLAN test is essential for their success. A couple of very important reminders for next week:

• All students must arrive on time
• Students must bring laptops, laptop chargers and laptop bags
• Laptops must be fully charged on Tuesday night
• Please bring 2 x sharp led pencils
• Please purchase and ask your son to bring wired ear/headphones.

We wish all students the best of luck with NAPLAN preparation and thank parents/caregivers for their support.

Academic Support

I remind families that there are many opportunities for students to access extra support if they need help with their studies. These include:

• Study Starter (every Monday and Wednesday after school in the Library starting from next week – finishing at 4.30pm)
• Faculty Tutoring can be found [HERE]
• Personalised Tutoring with Alumni can be found [HERE].

Conclusion

I once again congratulate students on the way in which they have started this year. I pray that our students can be adequately prepared and confident in their abilities, leading up to NAPLAN testing. I hope families have a relaxing 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 Ms Amy Dyer in the Careers Office.

Phone: (07) 3010 1158

Email: adyer@slc.qld.edu.au

Careers Website

For the latest information, we recommend visiting our Careers Platform. There, you can access up-to-date resume and cover letter templates, gain insights into work experience opportunities in 2024, explore presentation slides used in information sessions for both students and parents, make a tax file number application and explore university study options while still in school.

Work Experience

Registrations for work experience, including defence, are still open and students in Years 9 – 12 are encouraged to engage in this opportunity. Please use the links below to register your interest:

Work experience (June, September, December)

Australian Defence Force - Work experience

See here for Defence work experience dates: Experience list

Griffith University Pathways to Medicine Information Session

Griffith University will be holding a ‘Pathways to Medicine’ information evening for students interested in accessing their postgraduate doctor of medicine through their undergraduate pathway. Please click the link for more information or to register for the Pathways to medicine information evening.

Griffith University Scholarships

Creating scholarship applications can take time. Visit this link for guidance on the Griffith application process and to discover scholarships for which you might qualify.

Scholarships

University of Melbourne: A webinar for Queensland students

If you are considering future study at the University of Melbourne, please use the link below to register your attendance for the free webinar specifically designed for Queensland students.

UniMelb 101: A webinar for Queensland students

University of Sunshine Coast (USC)

UniSC’s Best Field Trip in the World is back again in 2024.

Year 11 and 12 students can enter for the chance to win four days of adventure. From a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of Suncorp Stadium before watching the Dolphins vs Storm NRL match to exploring the wonders of K’Gari, this will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

UNE Early Entry

The University of New England has opened their early applications for 2024. Students who are interested in studying through UNE are encouraged to apply – students can apply now and still apply for other universities later in the year, should they want to keep their options open. Some of the benefits of applying are:

• Free to apply
• Open to all Year 12 students
• Students apply directly to UNE online
• Students can submit up to three course preferences
• An ATAR is not required
• Most courses can be deferred
• There is an option to study fully online options for most courses
• Study on-campus options available for courses with affordable accommodation in our on-campus residential system

If students or parents have any questions about this, please contact the Careers Office.


Grandshake Virtual Work Experience

Grandshake is a company that offers Virtual work experience opportunities for students in Years 10 – 12, partnering with companies such as Inland Rai, Cardno, AI Group, Consult Australia and ARTC to offer experiences such as:

• Systems and Signals Operator
• Communication and Sustainability Cadet
• Junior Environment Planner
• Civil Construction Cadet
• Junior Digital Engineer
• Drone Pilot
• Electrical Technician

Grandshake has partnered with industry to design real-world projects that students can work on virtually, connect with industry partners and earn micro-credentials (in the form of digital badges, which can be added to LinkedIn Profiles). The programs require approximately 10 hours of commitment and are free for students to enrol in. For further information, check out the Grandshake website or please contact the Careers Office.

MS AMY DYER

Careers Counsellor

ELEVATE Education

In Week 4, we had a number parents attend the ELEVATE Education seminar on How to Get (and Keep) Your Child Motivated. The next free webinar will be on Wednesday 28 February, and will cover the topic How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time. These webinars are designed to assist parents with strategies and best practices for all aspects related to study and school work.

The details of the free webinar are below:

Webinar: How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time

Date: Wednesday 28 February

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 (AEST)

The webinar will show parents how to:

• Align expectations on homework with your child
• Help your child balance their schoolwork and social life
• Set up a weekly planner tool with your child

Registration for the free webinar can be accessed here.

The Benefits of Excursions & Incursions

Excursions and incursions are an integral part of the curriculum and an important pedagogical strategy for understanding the content being delivered within the classroom. Participating in Art excursions can offer a wide range of benefits to our students both academically and personally.

Observing an artist’s work and immersing oneself within an artistic space exposes our students to varied forms of artmaking allowing them to experience and appreciate cultures, history, artistic movements, global issues and the viewpoints of others. This broadens the individual’s perspective, allowing for a deeper understanding of diversity within our community. Excursions are a powerful source of inspiration, encouraging our students to be expressive and to develop their visual communication skills. By analysing and interpreting the artist’s purpose, students develop critical thinking skills where they consider the artist’s intentions, their context, cultural and global significance fostering a more analytical and thoughtful mindset. Once in front of the actual artwork, students are able to observe the details of the work and engage in making connections, reflecting, developing a thoughtful mindset, creativity and artistic expression.

Incursions allow students to work with professionals from the creative industries. These experiences give the students an opportunity of working with an artist. They share creative thinking, artistic processes and often the question of how much they make from their art will be asked!

Excursions that encourage students to respond to place, a specific environment, also complement the learning that occurs within the classroom. Real-life tasks and hands-on experiences enhance understanding and retention of techniques, processes and approaches used in making art. Working with peers as a group, fosters shared creative responses, positive social interactions and engagement in learning. Discussing artmaking with others leads to meaningful conversations, shared insights and a sense of community. Students are empowered to then create an artwork that communicates their message, story, idea or thought.

Year 9 Art students are investigating the landscape works of Australian artist John Wolseley. He has also been described as an environmentalist and through his artworks, he advocates for the living ecosystems of this land. Wolseley’s work depicts the migration of birds, the water plants in our waterways or the regeneration of vegetation after bushfires. He is an artist who immerses and works within the landscape. The Year 9 Art students have been discussing the landscape of our College and investigated the Urban Farm to observe the flourishing ecosystems of the fish, native bees, native plants and other produce that is grown in our concrete urban landscape. During an excursion, students drew different forms, explored the textures of the space and considered the positive environmental impact of the Urban Farm.

Excursions and incursions are an integral part of the curriculum. Through them, we are able to offer a multifaceted range of benefits to our students from building their knowledge, developing skills, contributing to personal development and expanding their awareness of the world around them. Excursions and incursion also encourage a habit for lifelong learning, encouraging our students to be curious, open to exploring new ideas, fostering a continuous interest in Art and culture.

MS MARIA MAVRITSKY

Head of Faculty - VAPA

Counselling Update from the SLC College Counselling Staff.

A Time of Change

Firstly, happy new year and welcome to Term 1! Like any start to a new school year, there is probably some chaos, new routines needing to be formed and old routines put on hold until the next break (and let’s be honest, lots of rolled eyes, disgruntled reactions and maybe even some tears). As you transition into the first term, here are some ideas that may be beneficial in helping everyone cope better throughout the term. 

• Develop healthy sleep routines – for further guidance including recommended hours of sleep per stage of development follow this link: Healthy sleep | Children's Health Queensland
• Ensure a healthy, balanced lunch is packed each day. This can provide a great opportunity to discuss with your young people the nutritional value of the foods in their lunch box or the foods they could choose at the canteen. Here’s a lunchbox guide to balance the most beneficial nutrition for a day of learning Packing healthy school lunchboxes – Growing Good Habits (hw.qld.gov.au)
• Sit down as a family and talk about the weekly expectations, particularly around topics such as homework, phone use and gaming. Discuss the outcomes when these expectations are met or not met. The more clarity a young person has about what’s expected of them and what the possible outcomes will be, the more empowered they feel to understand the reasoning and make choices for themselves. Some prompt questions for this discussion could be:

­ What are the allowances for gaming/phone use during the week compared to weekends?

­ What are the nightly homework expectations? 

­ What social outings are allowed during the week? 

­ What time is bedtime? 

­ Where can screens be charged centrally and outside of the bedroom?

The College provides qualified counsellors accessible to all students and families as required Monday – Friday. If you feel counselling support may be helpful please reach out via the 2024 St Laurence's College Counselling Referral Form (office.com) or contact the Pastoral Precinct on 07 3010 2702.

Interhouse Sport

Interhouse volleyball has consumed our lunchtimes this week and has been a delight to watch. All Houses competed with pride, passion and a great deal of friendly rivalry. Heads of House are thanked for their enthusiasm and supervision at lunchtimes, along with the many House mentors who came along to cheer along their students. 

In addition to Volleyball, the Interhouse Cross Country began this week with boys competing against other houses for House Cup Points. Many thanks to the sports department and Ms Charlotte Wilson (Director of Cross Country) for their involvement and organisation of these events.

Service

I would like to thank the multitude of students who have assisted with the Principal’s Tours which have been hosted over the past few weeks. These tours are a wonderful opportunity for prospective families to learn about our College by meeting with Mr Leadbetter followed by a walking tour of the College with students being the tour guides. The highlight of the afternoon is always the tour, after which the visitors speak glowingly about their guide during the experience. These afternoons would not be a success without the contribution and enthusiasm of the students who participate. Whilst this experience helps their growth and confidence, their service to the College is wonderful and very much appreciated.

The pastoral team wishes all students the best in the coming weeks. Live Jesus in our hearts. . . Forever.

MR DAVID KNIGHT

Dean of Pastoral Care (Senior School)

Singing Surfin’ Safari

Members of Little Brotherhood in Years 7-9 visited the Gold Coast for our annual ‘Singing Surfing Safari’ on the weekend. 

After arriving on Saturday, the boys worked hard at their rehearsal and relaxed with an afternoon swim. On Sunday, the boys enjoyed the hospitality of Mother of Mercy parish while leading the singing for the Sunday Mass. Well done to these choir students on their wonderful performances and representation of Lauries.  

Brotherhood Workshop – Years 10 & 12 | Thursday 29 February | 4.15pm Brisbane City

St Laurence’s College has been invited to attend a workshop with internationally acclaimed choral conductor David Squires. This will be a wonderful opportunity to gain new insights, perspectives and approaches to choral music making. As well, it will be fun to sing alongside your musicians from other Brisbane schools.

Call for Volunteers!

The Music Department and Lauries Music Support Group (LMSG) are currently calling for volunteers to assist with upcoming music events. If you are available and interested in assisting with any of these events, please register using the relevant link.

Note: timings volunteers would be required for are included on the registration form.

2024 Intermediate Ensembles Concert | Wednesday 6 March | 6pm ERPAC

Ensembles Performing: Concert Band 2, Big Band 2, Percussion Ensemble 2, String Orchestra 2, Guitar Orchestra 2, Little Brotherhood, Cambiata

Volunteers Needed: BBQ & Bar Setup, BBQ & Bar Service, BBQ & Bar Pack up, Raffle Ticket Sales, Entry Door Donations

Volunteer Registration Link: https://volunteersignup.org/YF9AT

2024 Senior Ensembles Concert | Thursday 7 March | 6pm ERPAC

Ensembles Performing: Concert Band 1, Big Band 1, Percussion Ensemble 1, String Orchestra 1, Symphony Orchestra, Fellowship of the String, Guitar Orchestra 1, Brotherhood, Big Brotherhood

Volunteers Needed: BBQ & Bar Setup, BBQ & Bar Service, BBQ & Bar Pack up, Raffle Ticket Sales, Entry Door Donations

Volunteer Registration Link: https://volunteersignup.org/HRJ3F

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, Round 3

Due to wet and wild weather on Friday, only Volleyball was played in Week 3. It was a successful week for Lauries, with the College winning the majority of games which was a great effort. As always, the First VI battled hard, however, went down on the day to a very good Villanova College team.

This week, Lauries will be playing their Round 4 games against St Patrick's College and all games across all sports are expected to be very hardly fought.

We wish all players the best of luck this weekend. 

2023 Sports Excellence Awards

On Wednesday, select students were presented with their Sports Excellence Awards from Mr Leadbetter. Receiving such an award is a fantastic achievement and for students to have received the award, they needed to have participated at ‘A’ Level in two sports, plus competed for the College in a Championship event OR played one ‘A’ Level Sport and represented the College in two Championship Sports.

Well done to all those boys who received an award! 

Term 2 Sport 

A reminder that Expressions of interest for Term 2 Sport go out this week and we encourage all boys to participate in any sport of their choosing and have a great time representing the College!

MR PATRICK BYRON

Head of Sport

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Please see HERE a notice regarding the 2024 Student Residential Address Collection.

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!

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...