As most would already be aware, last week was Mr Leadbetter’s last week as Principal, until we see him again at the Year 12 Graduation, later this year. Mr Leadbetter’s secondment sees him begin in the role of EREA regional Director (SA/WA) almost immediately. He will no doubt have a positive impact on the communities in the Southern and Western states, as he has done at St Laurence’s. We wish Mr Leadbetter well for the year ahead and look forward to seeing him return in the future.

Congratulations must go to our Years 5, 7 and 9 who this week have been involved in NAPLAN testing. Our boys worked to their best of their ability as they navigated the NAPLAN test conditions. This process is well supported at St Laurence’s by our NAPALN Core Team, led by Ms Zofia Kentrotis and supported by Mr Nathan Burridge, Mr Sam Dickman, Mr Sean Morrison, Ms Aimee Watt, Mr Ryan Anspach, Ms Emma Serico, Mr Alex Peace, Ms Elvira Green and Ms Silo Gunput. The NAPLAN Core Team develops and implements programs that support students in building their self-efficacy in NAPLAN testing procedures.

This week I had the privilege of attending two events that allowed our College and the community to come together to celebrate our Faith in Action. The first of these was the Old Boys Concert. Featuring the SLC Community Choir, the evening was hosted by the Music Department at St Ignatius Church at Toowong. Under the direction of Dr Anthony Young, the night was both an amazing spectacle of music and a synergy of ages in our community. Congratulations must go to all the Music Department for this fantastic event.

You can view the full concert here.

Later in the week I was invited to attend the Quarterly Meeting for the Brisbane and Gold Coast Chapter of Ronald McDonald House. Each Wednesday our Year 10 boys volunteer at Ronald McDonald House as a part of their Certificate II in Active Volunteering, giving of their time to read and play with young people and hang out with like aged students who are living in Ronald McDonald House at the time. Through their House in Action program, Xavier House also attend Roald McDonald House after school to assist with similar projects and to help with gardening and general duties. It was an honour to attend the event with Mr Corfield, Ms Turner, Mr Gammie and the Xavier House boys to receive a Mission Award on behalf of the College, for all the generosity and service the boys offer the Ronald McDonald House community.

The College recently received confirmation that we have passed our review process for the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB). This is a five-yearly renewal process that examines an individual non-state school’s accreditation and compliance against regulatory requirements. Congratulations must go to the team of people involved in this process. I would also like to acknowledge the support of EREA Colleges in this renewal.

Finally, I would like to wish the 17 teams who are competing for premierships, as well as all those students competing for the College in AIC matches this weekend, the best of luck. It has been a remarkable term of sport with successes across all three codes and some inspirational stories of sportsmanship and collegiality. Of particular note was the First XI staying behind on Saturday afternoon for an hour after their match finished, to cheer on and help the Second XI celebrate their late in the day victory. Best of luck to all teams.

MR BEN LOWRIE

College Principal

Xavier House – Ronald McDonald House

On Wednesday, our Xavier House students went to Ronald McDonald House to be part of the Quarterly Awards afternoon. The students of Xavier House were recognised with a special award for the work they have done so far this term. Xavier House run a kids club three times a term where our students and staff set-up a variety of games and activities for the children and families staying at the house. 

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 has been a very positive experience for our students to spend that time participating in board games and other activities. The key thing our students do is offer their presence to the young people and their families by taking the time to participate in games and conversation.

RCIA Sacramental Program

We are pleased to announce that in partnership with Liturgy Brisbane and the Dutton Park Parish, we will be offering a Sacramental Program at our College beginning in Term 2. The program will be run at the College in a negotiated time with the students and will allow them to work through key sessions that explore them deepening their relationship with Christ.

A person seeking to join the Catholic Church is usually initiated through the three Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. We understand that students come to us from a variety of different backgrounds and parishes and we want to be able to offer an opportunity for our students to prepare for and celebrate the Sacraments of Initiation.

Some of our students may have been baptised but have not completed their initiation with Confirmation or First Communion, while others may be seeking to join the Church through Baptism. The College-based sacramental program offers students the option to prepare for these sacraments in line with the Archdiocesan Sacramental Policy and to celebrate the reception of these sacraments in the College chapel. If a student has not been baptised, they would be able to go through all three sacraments at once.

Last year, we had over 40 students receive their sacraments and we look forward to offering this again in 2024. If you wish for your son to be part of this please respond to the form HERE.

MR PAUL CORFIELD

Dean of Identity and Community

I am thrilled to share with you the exciting news of my move from Dean of Logistics and Analytics to the acting role of Dean of Teaching and Learning for the remainder of the 2024 school year. As I step into this position, I am filled with a sense of renewed purpose and commitment to our students’ growth and success.

Over the years, I have witnessed the transformative power of effective teaching practices and the impact they have on student learning. Now, as Dean of Teaching and Learning, I am dedicated to fostering an environment where innovation and collaboration thrive.

NAPLAN: A Conversation Worth Having

This week our Year 5, 7 and 9 students have been completing their NAPLAN tasks which allow our teachers and you, their families, to better understand their proficiency in reading, writing, language conventions, and numeracy. NAPLAN provides valuable data on student achievement and growth allowing teachers to adapt their teaching to allow success for each student. Yet, we must strike a balance between data-driven decision-making and the broader educational experience.

While NAPLAN has its place, we recognise that it is just one piece of the puzzle. Triangulation of NAPLAN with diagnostic testing, which goes beyond standardised assessments and contextual school assessments, allows us to tailor instruction to individual student needs. It helps us identify strengths, address gaps, and personalise learning experiences and helps us celebrate the uniqueness of each learner and create an inclusive environment where every student thrives.

Unfortunately, the publication of NAPLAN results on the My School website has intensified competition between schools and states. While transparency is crucial, we must ensure that these results do not overshadow other aspects of learning and that education encompasses more than test scores.

Please rest assured that we will continue to use NAPLAN data judiciously while exploring other diagnostic tools that provide a holistic view of student progress. In addition, our teachers will receive ongoing training to interpret assessment data effectively and adjust their teaching practices accordingly.

Change brings opportunities, and I am eager to collaborate with our dedicated staff, parents, and students to enhance teaching and learning at Lauries. Together, we will embrace innovation, foster growth and ensure that our students are well-prepared for the future. I look forward to this remarkable journey ahead.

MS KIRSTEN WARDROP

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.

SLConX

On Tuesday, we held our first SLConX event of the year, focussed on Architecture, Design, and the Built Environment. The event featured a panel of Old Boys actively engaged in these fields, providing valuable insights into each industry, job opportunities and various career paths. Special thanks to Peter Wendt for coordinating the event and appreciation to our guest speakers who engaged our guests and spoke passionately on the night.

Anthony Andrews (1976) - Engineer and Project Manager

Matt Kan (1996) - Architect, Property Development, Real Estate & Project Management

Glen Power (1997) - Landscape Architect

Michael Cardillo (2016) - Managing Director of Pure Design Concepts

We look forward to welcoming parents to future events in the following industries:

28 May: Careers in Business, Finance, Law

23 July: Careers in Information Technology, Cyber Security, Web Design

Southern Cross University – Buzz Podcast

Hear from current Southern Cross University students, graduates and researchers on their worlds of study and adventure.  Specific episodes including Teaching, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Engineering, Science, Music, Environment and more.

Listen on your favourite platform Spotify or Apple.  Just search SCU Buzz Southern Cross Uni.

UQ – Subject Focused Experiences

Engineering, Design and Computing School Holiday Program

Year 9 students are invited to learn how to think like engineers, architects, designers and planners and computer professionals by participating in hands-on workshops.

Date: 25-28 June
Location: UQ St Lucia campus.

Engineering, design and computing careers evening

Years 9-12 students will gain insights from recent graduates, networking opportunities with industry professionals and information on study options at UQ. They will learn about diverse career paths and the importance of personal branding and resilience.

Date: 18 July, 6-8pm
Location: Advanced Engineering Building #49, UQ St Lucia campus

Register your interest here.

Future Experiences in Agriculture, Science and Technology (FEAST)

FEAST is a residential program where Years 11 and 12 students can explore agriculture, animal and plant science at our Gatton campus and test drive what it’s like to be a UQ student by taking part in workshops.

Date: 23-26 June
Location: UQ Gatton campus.

Register your interest here.

New psychology program at the pathology museum

Years 11 and 12 students can learn about Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, brain stem injuries, lobotomies and mental health in this fascinating new program at UQ’s Integrated Pathology Learning Centre (IPLC).

Make a booking.

American Summers – Gap Year Opportunity

American Summer Gap Year - Information for students and parents.

Who should take up the opportunity to work at Summer Camp?

• Students wanting to take a gap year before starting University/College or TAFE
• Students wanting to work overseas while at or once they graduate University/College or TAFE.
• Students who are unsure what they want to do once they finish this year.
• Students who want to experience working at a Summer Camp in America (which is a lot like the movies) and make a positive impact in the lives of children.
• Students who will be at least 18 by early June 2025 Note: Students can apply while they are still 17.

Program Details / What Summer Camp Employers look for:

• Anyone who is fun, enthusiastic and passionate about helping, being a role model and leader to children (8-15).
• Anyone looking to gain leadership, professional development and work-related skills in teaching, outdoor ed, disability studies, human movement, social / community/youth work, event planning, tourism/hospitality (to mention just a few)
• Anyone who loves participating in any sports, performing arts, arts/crafts, water activities, outdoor adventure, horse riding, gymnastics, extreme sports. In fact camps offer over 200 non-academic activities and hire staff who just love participating, leading or coaching any of these. 
• Anyone who wants to gain life skills. Working at Camp and traveling gives many students a better grasp on what they want to do with their future, are more focused and committed (which is great if heading to Uni). Their communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity skills have also greatly improved and they have better global understanding, as well as grown and matured.
• Available to work for at least 9 weeks, May/June to August/September (Northern Hemisphere summer).

University Open Days and Careers Expos

All 2024 university open days and careers expos can be found at the following link:  Open Days / Careers Expos 2024.

Please mark these in your calendar as they are a great way to experience each campus and see what is on offer.

Start University Early – Student for a Semester experience.

START QUT Webinar

For students in Year 11 and interested in studying a university subject in Semester 2.  Students receive a selection rank adjustment and gain potential credit towards a future degree at QUT Webinar is being held on 26 March from 5.30 - 7.00pm. Click here to register.

MS AMY DYER

Careers Counsellor

National Harmony week 2023

Next week, the College will celebrate Harmony Week. The week-long celebration will entail a plethora of activities and events across the college grounds. From the country flags around the quad to the Untold Stories performance, the week will provide students a chance to celebrate and share their diverse cultures and traditions with their peers. The amazing tuckshop staff are also involved next week with a change of menu, where each day will have a different cultural theme ranging from Mexican Monday to Greek, Italian and a popular with Old Boys - sausage roll, in a bread roll. We thank all staff and students for making next week special.

Over 50 national flags have already been hung around the college, representing each of our diverse nationalities and cultures that we have here at Lauries. The initiative aimed to provide a visible and tangible representation of our commitment to inclusivity has sparked conversations between students and staff about their cultural differences. We hope all students embrace Harmony Week, coming together as a unified school community.

Year 12 – Exam Block

Sincere best wishes to our Year 12 students for their exam block which begins on Wednesday this coming week. Our hope is that they manage their time, stress and wellbeing effectively over the course of the block. Sleep, good nutrition and keeping anxiety in check are essential ingredients for this period, rather than an overloaded diet of sugary foods and caffeine. Good luck gentlemen.

International Women’s Day

The lead-up to International Women’s Day was highlighted last week by Nagle House and Head of House Mr Welmar du Plessis by leading the recognition of our female staff. It was wonderful to see all students standing in unity with Nagle House to acknowledge the work that women do in our school and the role that mothers, grandmothers and significant females play in the lives of our students. In addition to this, Nagle House organised a morning tea for all staff in order to celebrate International Women’s Day and I would like to thank them for their initiative, enthusiasm and generosity in doing so.

As always parents, if you believe your child has any issue at the College that we may be able to assist with, please contact your son’s Head of House or the Pastoral Precinct.

I wish all parents and students the very best and as always, Live Jesus in your hearts…….Forever!

MR DAVID KNIGHT

Dean of Pastoral Care (Senior School)

Congratulations to members of Treblehood, Concert Band 3, Big Band 3 and String Orchestra 3 who performed at the annual Junior Ensembles Breakfast Concert on Tuesday. It was a wonderful morning showcasing the progress students have made.

We look forward to their next performances at the Junior Ensembles Concert in Term 2 on Thursday 16 May.

Save the dates – Term 2

• 29 Apr | Guitar Orchestra 2 Workshop | Somerville House 3:30pm

• 7 May | Lauries Music Support Group (LMSG) Meeting | MU1 6:00pm

• 16 May | Junior Ensembles Concert | ERPAC 6:00pm
  Ensembles: Concert Band 3, Big Band 3, String Orchestra 3, Treblehood, Percussion Ensemble 3, Year 5 String Orchestra, Year 5 Guitar Ensemble, Year 5 Musicianship, Year 5 Concert Band

• 22 May | Combined Schools Concert | ERPAC 2-5pm
  Ensembles: String Orchestra 3 and Treblehood

• 21-22 May | Speech & Drama Showcase | McElligott Theatre 6:00pm

• 31 May | Cabaret Concert | ERPAC 6:30pm
  Ensembles: Concert Band 1, Big Band 1, Percussion Ensemble 1, String Orchestra 1, Fellowship of the String, Symphony Orchestra, Guitar Orchestra 1, Brotherhood, Big Brotherhood, Treblehood

• 3 & 5 Jun – Strings Recital | Chapel

• 6 Jun – Piano Recital | Chapel

Music Communications – Lauries App

The Music Department uses 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 preferences to ensure you receive the relevant notifications for this ensemble.

Note: You will receive notifications for all ensembles under the categories you subscribe to, however it will be clear which ensembles that notification relates to.
Any events that fall outside the usual ensemble routine may require a parent or guardian consent, and if required, an invitation will be sent via parent lounge.

Year 5 parents, please ensure your subscriptions include the Year 5 Music Program under ‘Music.’ Any program updates or performance information will be posted here once available.

If you would like further information regarding any of the above, please contact the music department: music@slc.qld.edu.au or telephone 3010 1138.

Strike up the Band!

MR ROSS CAPERN

Head of Instrumental Music

Around the Grounds – Sports Wrap Up, Round 6

In Round 6, Lauries played traditional rivals Marist Ashgrove and all games, across all sports were very fiercely contested! In AFL, Lauries had a good round winning almost all the games played, however the Firsts dropped their first game for the season, losing in a very tight contest. In Volleyball, the College enjoyed a great day winning the majority of aggregate games, however it was the First VI who wowed us all, with a gutsy five set win, cheered on by a small but very vocal Lauries crowd. In Cricket, the day was again shared, but a special well done must go to the First XI who fought out a very entertaining and very deserved win. Needing two wickets in the last over to complete the win, Tom Vaseo (who took a wicket off the last ball in his previous over) took two wickets from his first 2 delivers in the 50^th over, to not only seal the win, but also pick up a hat trick! It was fantastic win and very well deserved to all those boys in the game.

This week will be our final week of Term 1 sport, and the College is up against Padua College. We have 17 teams across the three sports in contention for Premierships/undefeated seasons, which is a great effort from all of those students involved. To our seniors, who will be playing their last game of Cricket/AFL/Volleyball for the College, we say thank you. Your efforts during your time at the College have been outstanding, and we all hope you go out winners in the Black and Gold!

Term 2 Sport

A reminder that Term 2 Sport is just around the corner, and all Sport Information books are available on the College app. There will be trials on 22 and 23 March for these sports, so please make sure you are ready and prepared for the season.

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!

Raffle tickets for the Lauries Autumn Lunch are now live! Buy your tickets for a chance to win our major prize - a $2,000 Westfield voucher!

Purchase your tickets HERE!

We wish to remind our College community that the designated student drop off and collection area is via the 82 Stephens Road entrance. Using alternative entry points around the College campus, including the ERPAC Loading Dock and turn around, or access spaces for the neighbouring Hospitals or Schools can cause inconveniences for our neighbours and may be unsafe for pedestrians and traffic. Families are asked to please only use the 82 Stephens Road drop off and collection point.

Please note it is compulsory that all students wear the College Blazer to and from school each day. The College tie is also to be worn all day.

Years 10, 11 and 12 must wear Grey trousers during this time as well.

If you have any questions about St Laurence’s College uniforms, contact The Lauries Shop on (07) 3010 1100 or email uniform@slc.qld.edu.au

The Lauries Shop term-time opening hours are Monday-Friday from 7:30am-1:45pm.