National Reconciliation Week

Today the College celebrated its formal recognition of National Reconciliation Week.

‘National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.’

An important part of our Smoking Ceremony was the blessing of our House Message Sticks. Message Sticks were traditionally used by First Nations People to communicate when traveling between different territories. In order to show peaceful intentions, they displayed the Message Stick. Each Message Stick has its own story and will bring us all together.

The new College and House Message Sticks were handed over by our Yuuningan Yari students to our Heads of House, Dr Herbert and Student Leaders. This process is a recognition of the College and Houses becoming custodians of these Message Sticks. These Message Sticks will play a key role in House and College gatherings in the future.

EREA Charter Renewal

Last week the College completed the EREA Charter Mission Renewal. Led by Mr Ray Paxton from the EREA national office, the renewal involved a prepared pre-renewal report, whole school surveys and three days of interviewed with staff, students and members of the community. The renewal was an extensive enquiry into the Colleges alignment and connection to both the Charter of EREA and the Touchstones. The process was both important to our catholic identity, who we are as a community and an opportunity to reflect on our connections to our Charism. I would like to thank Ray Paxton, Peter Fullagar, Heidi Senior, Michael Blowse and Trish Kennedy for the time they gave to St Laurence’s College. I would also like to thank all the staff, students and community who gave of their time to make the renewal authentic. We look forward to receiving the feedback from the review into the future.

You Are Not Alone Project

An important feature of a contemporary education is student agency. Last week, of their own doing, the senior cohort decided to use our home game at Runcorn to raise awareness around Mental Health in the community. Teaming up with the organisation You Are Not Alone (started by Villanova Old Boys) and connecting with the senior cohort of St Patrick's, the students ran in school and community promotions to have people discuss this important topic. Highlighted by raffles, a blow-up arch, public announcements and assembly promotions, the initiative was a great success. I congratulate all the students involved and especially thank Gianluca, Harrison and Tait for driving initiative.

Head 2 Heart Camp

This weekend St Laurence's College will host a Head 2 Heart Camp. Head 2 Heart is a social justice, leadership and service program run by staff and students. This weekend's camp will see staff and students from St Laurence's College, St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace and All Hallows' School, combine to facilitate a weekend long program for students. I thank Mr Corfield, Mr Mendoza and the Identity Team for their organisation and facilitation of this opportunity.

AIC Cross Country

Before the next Newsletter, the College will compete in the AIC Cross Country Carnival at Shorncliffe. We wish all the runners the very best for the event and we thank Ms Wilson, Mr Stokes and all the Coaching staff for their preparation of the team.

Best wishes to all our teams competing in the AIC competitions this weekend.

MR BEN LOWRIE

College Principal (Acting)

National Volunteers Week

National Volunteers Week is an annual celebration of the contributions and achievements of millions of volunteers across Australia. It is a time to recognise the diverse and valuable roles that volunteers play in various sectors and communities, from health and education to environment and social justice. National Volunteers Week also aims to inspire more people to get involved in volunteering and to appreciate the benefits of giving back to society.

At St Laurence's College, we are proud to have a strong culture of service and solidarity that reflects our EREA touchstones of Gospel spirituality, inclusive community, justice and solidarity, and liberating education. This week our students were fully active in various volunteer programs including breakfast at Emmanuel City Mission and our Year 10s were also out and about for their various volunteer activities as part of their Cert II in Active Volunteering.

I had the pleasure of accompanying three Xavier House students to Ronald McDonald House for the Kids Club they run on a Wednesday afternoon. This can sometimes be difficult as our students often need to step outside their comfort zone and have that ability to allow themselves to have fun with the young people staying there. As were there this week you always take time to look around at the families staying there with their children being treated. Some of them have come from tough days at the hospital with various sorts of treatment and these visits from our students and the volunteers down there allows them time to interact with other people and be a kid without the weight of the world on their shoulder. We cannot thank our students enough for taking time to be part of all the service opportunities at the College.

National Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. It is held from 27 May to 3 June, which are significant dates in the history of reconciliation, such as the 1967 referendum, the Mabo decision, and the apology to the Stolen Generations. The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue.

On Friday morning we gathered for our annual Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Marlon Riely. This has been a tradition leading into the AIC Reconciliation Round for the last four years. This year had added significance as we launched our College Message Sticks that were presented to our Heads of House, House Leaders, College Captains and Dr Liam Herbert. The Message Sticks will become an important part of gathering particularly when we gather as a College in the future. Traditionally when First Nations people travelled between country, they took the Message Stick with them and could show this to the owners of the country to signal they were in different land with peaceful intent.

MR PAUL CORFIELD

Dean of Identity and Community

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Upcoming Assessment

Year 10 Assessment Block Expectations

Year 10 students will receive their exam block schedule early next week. As this is their first blocked assessment session, it is important that they have a clear understanding of our expectations. These will be communicated following the release of the schedule. We certainly appreciate your support in reinforcing these actions with your son.

Study Tips

Below is an abridged version of my suggested student study tips outlined throughout previous newsletters. You and your son might find these useful to prepare for upcoming assessment.

1. Start writing/typing…..anything. I used this technique when I had writers block throughout my doctoral studies. Some academics often term it as ‘spewing’ on the page. An interesting analogy, but one that suggests if our boys can just start, the shaping and editing can come later.
2. Prioritise. Students must prioritise their assessment. There is little value in studying or completing assessment for a subject that is due last.
3. Chunk. I also advise students to chunk their study in order that they can maintain interest throughout their study period.
4. Rest. I advise rest at least every 60-90mins of study. Students should grab a healthy snack, go for a walk or play some sport (or even help around the house with chores)!
5. Sleep. Students are much better off with a good night’s sleep, then studying all night. Research suggests that students who are able to obtain a good night’s sleep perform better on exams the following day. Retention of knowledge is difficult late at night when students are tired.

Study Starter

A reminder that students requiring extra assistance with their study, are very welcome to attend study starter, which is a free tutoring service, run by library staff, academic prefects, and old boys. It is conducted every Monday and Wednesday after school from 3:10pm-4:30pm in the Library.

Highlighting our Agreed Practice through Learning Walks

This week I was thrilled to be invited into the Technology’s workshops and a Primary English lesson. In every part of the lessons, teachers and students worked collaboratively in order to ensure that students learnt in a respectful environment where they were challenged.

Primary - Explicit Teaching of paragraphs. Students enthusiastically shared ideas in a positive and supportive environment.

Design – Devising sustainable solutions. Students were challenged to think for themselves in a creative and calm design space.

Engineering – Programming to Problem Solve. Students were ready to learn, collaborating to achieve success.

MS KIRSTEN WARDROP

Dean of Teaching and Learning (Acting)

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.

Griffith University College of Arts Portfolio Workshops

Participants choose to work in either Design or Visual Arts and by the end of the workshop will:

• Learn how to present and what to include in a successful Queensland College of Art and Design portfolio.
• Complete at least one piece of work for their creative portfolio that could potentially be used in their Queensland College of Art and Design portfolio application.
• Meet and work with QCAD Design and Visual Arts staff to find out if Queensland College of Art and Design is right for you.

Click here for more information on costs and registration: QCAD portfolio workshops

Griffith Film School Experience Week

During the week-long program, participants chose a study area and are taught by our highly skilled, industry connected teaching team to gain theoretical and practical skills. Participants also complete a piece of work for their creative portfolio and get a feel for what it’s like to study at the Griffith Film School.

Click here for more information on costs and registration: Griffith Film School Experience

UQ LEAD Scholarship Opening Soon

UQ's Law School including information about UQ's Law School Leadership, Excellence, and Diversity (LEAD) Scholarship during the application period.

Designed to support outstanding students who aspire to study law and have experienced educational, social and/or financial disadvantages. Use the following link to sign-up for notifications about when the UQ LEAD Scholarship will open.

UQ Ramsay Scholarship Webinar

The UQ Ramsay Undergraduate Scholarship offers $32,000 per year for the duration of the program (up to 5 years) for students undertaking a sequence of study in Western Civilisation.

This scholarship is open to school leavers with Australian citizenship or Australian permanent residency status who intend to enrol in either of these programs in 2024:

• Bachelor of Advanced Humanities (Western Civilisation) (Honours)
• Bachelor of Humanities / Bachelor of Laws (Honours)

Please use the above UQ Ramsay Scholarship link for further details or to register.

UQ Enhanced Studies Program (ESP)

A reminder that the closing date for the Year 11 Semester 2 2024 UQ Enhanced Studies Program is quickly approaching.

This is a fantastic opportunity for your students to delve into subjects aligned with their interests and broaden their knowledge, preparing them for future academic challenges and personal growth. Subject offerings can be found on the website, and the Semester 2 2024 brochure can be downloaded here.

Students can begin the application process via this link. Please see Mr Malcolm or Mrs Dyer for more details.

MS AMY DYER

Careers Counsellor

Senior School

In the spirit of collaboration our Senior School leaders travelled to Our Lady’s College at Annerley to meet with the Year 12 leaders to discuss programs and initiatives taking place at their respective schools. It was a fruitful afternoon which culminated with a volleyball friendly between the students. Thank you to Mr Knight for facilitating this opportunity.

Year 10

Having a pathway and direction to work towards is often elusive for a number of students. Therefore, this afternoon, thanks to Ms Amy Dyer and accompanying staff, our Year 10 students attended the Careers and Employment Expo at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre. The expo continues tomorrow and entrance is free of charge. For more information please visit Brisbane Careers & Employment Expo (careersemploymentexpo.com.au)

Year 9

y-Lead Altitude Leadership Day

Last week, our Year 9 Middle School Leaders attended y-Lead Altitude Leadership Day at Brisbane City Hall accompanied by Mr Matthew Yates. The event empowers Year 9 students during this important stage in their school journey. This was a blend of inspirational talks and energising group activities. The day was also a valuable opportunity to network with like-minded students from other Brisbane Schools. Congratulation to College Old Boy, Jon Heard who ran the day y-Lead.

Travel Safety

The safety of students travelling to and from school is paramount. As such, students are given frequent reminders about ensuring their own safety and that they are not impacting on the safety or comfort of others. Whilst I don’t encourage the use of e-scooters for our students, it is imperative that if they are riding an e-scooter or bicycle to school, they are aware of and adhering to the laws, regulations and wearing a helmet. For more information: Are you an e-scooter rider? | About Queensland and its government | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)

Middle School Assessment Preparation

Having just finished Week 6, our Middle School students would notice that assessment requirements and due dates are starting to loom. Organisation is a key component for success and during this busy term, students are encouraged to ensure that they are using their study timetable and keeping the goals they set in Week 1 in mind. Another element that we will be reminding our Middle School of at our MS Assembly this Tuesday is the need to chip away at assignments and revision rather than leaving it all to the night before the due date or exam. A final piece of advice for our young men is to be proactive and communicate should they be having difficulties.

Best wishes for the coming week.

MS VANESSA BELL

Dean of Middle School

Dear Parents and Guardians,  

As you may be aware, on Wednesday our students attended an important presentation by Melissa McGuinness from ‘YOU CHOOSE Programs’, Australia’s youth-led mission to change driving culture.

YOU CHOOSE Programs is a highly acclaimed, and winner of the Australian Road Safety Award for school programs. The program involves a presentation phase, supported by ongoing in-class lesson plans in our well-being schedule which are aligned to the Australian Curriculum.

YOU CHOOSE’s messages are challenging, though extremely important for young people and their decision making as drivers and passengers. Many students were moved to profound personal introspection about their own families and connections to their intentions, their choices and their actions. This is a key intent behind the mission's motto - Own the Choice Own the Outcome.  

Melissa challenged the students to consider how they will personally seek leadership in road safety, live life to its fullest, protect their loved ones; and be truly accountable in situations where they need to place their safety and wellbeing at the forefront of decision making. To exchange expectations, commitments and permissions to speak up and to act in moments-that-matter.   

We have asked students to share the YOU CHOOSE mission with you; and to discuss what they have taken from the program. We strongly urge you to engage in this conversation with your teen; and to encourage them to complete the (anonymous) survey link they received after the presentation.

As a fully registered non-for-profit charity, YOU CHOOSE relies on donations to take messages about Love, Family, Leadership and the Empowerment of Choice to school communities around Australia. Parents are encouraged to contribute at https://www.youchooseyrs.org.au/support-you-choose/donate/

For more information, please visit www.youchooseyrs.org.au

MR SHANE LYNCH

Head of House - Hogan

Round 4 Update - Games Vs St Patrick’s College

Last weekend of sport was a massive event for St Laurence’s with the College hosting Chess, Rugby, and Football matches against St Patrick’s College, as well as numerous other supplementary games. The competition began on Friday night, with our Chess teams once again enjoying a successful night, winning against the very competitive and talented St Pat’s players. On Saturday, the action started at 7.30am and didn’t finish until 5.30pm, making it a very busy day in sports. In Rugby Union, all our teams had strong performances, with our First XV once again playing very well to remain undefeated this season. In Football, our teams also had a great day, winning almost all aggregate games. The day concluded with our First XI Football team being the feature game of the afternoon, and there was a great turnout to support our boys at Grundy Oval. The day was also special as we celebrated Mental Health Round, a round designed to help foster a supportive environment in our community and encourage open conversations around mental health. Students and supporters from St Laurence’s College wore green shoelaces or armbands as a show of support for this Mental Health Round. I would like to thank the Student Leadership team for all their help in organising this event.

Next week will also be big, with the College taking on St Edmund's College away in Round 5 and St Patrick's College hosting the annual AIC Cross Country Championships at Curlew Park. Best of luck to all our students involved.

Midweek AIC Cross Country Meet - Runcorn

On Wednesday, the College hosted the final AIC Cross Country Warm Up meet. The afternoon was a great success and the course looked fantastic. Thank you so much to Ms Wilson and all the Sports Office and Cross Country staff who helped set up and run this event.

Term 3 Sport

Expressions of interest has now gone out for Term 3 sport. If you have yet to express your interest in playing Sport in Term 3, it is not too late and this can still be done by emailing the Sports Office. We encourage all students to play Sport at St Laurence’s College, as it is a great way to stay fit and healthy and do something fun with your mates!

MR PATRICK BYRON

Head of Sport

Cabaret Concert

Our Cabaret Concert "A Night at the Movies" is on tonight from 6.30pm in ERPAC!
Ensembles: Concert Band 1, Percussion Ensemble 1, Big Band 1, String Orchestra 1, Fellowship of the String, Symphony Orchestra, Guitar Orchestra 1, Brotherhood, Big Brotherhood, Treblehood

Click here for more information

3 & 5 June – Strings Recital | Chapel

6 June – Piano Recital | Chapel

14 June - Intermediate Ensembles Breakfast Concert | ERPAC Foyer 7:30am
Ensembles: String Orchestra 2, Big Band 2, Concert Band 2, Little Brotherhood, Cambiata

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

Our Annual Appeal continues, offering members of our community and beyond the opportunity to support our two tax-deductible charities - the St Laurence's Old Boys' Foundation and the St Laurence's College Building Fund.

Please click here for more information and to make a contribution.

All gifts, great and small, will be greatly appreciated.

Lauries Sports Lunch Raffle tickets are ON SALE NOW!

We’ve got some incredible prizes up for grabs, including a Story Bridge Climb for 10 adults and an exclusive Brisbane Bullets Experience.

All funds raised from raffle ticket sales support our Sports Department to continue delivering their high standard of engaging and inclusive sporting activities.

Check out the full list and buy your raffle tickets here: https://www.raffletix.com.au/lauriessportsraffle2024

On Wednesday, Week 8, Mini Vinnies will host the annual Book Swap in the Primary Gallery at both Morning Tea and Lunch. All staff and students in Years 5, 6 and 7 are invited to come to browse and purchase a ‘new’ book for themselves. All items will be $1 and the proceeds with go towards the Indigenous Literacy Foundation ( The Indigenous Literacy Foundation | ILF | reading opens doors charity non-profit).

We are very happy to keep receiving donations of books up until, and including, Wednesday 5^th June. Thank you to the many families who have kindly already done so, and the SLC Library who have also donated a huge range of books. As always, the quality of the books are amazing.

We have run this initiative for over 10 years now and we look forward to another fantastic day of book-buying!

MS KATE FLANAGAN

Primary Teacher

• Was your child included on the latest Commonwealth Census as a student with a disability requiring supplementary, substantial or extensive adjustments?

• Does your child’s Personalised Learning Plan confirm their transport needs are demonstrably different to those of their same aged peers by reason of their disability?

• Has your school’s learning support teacher assessed your child’s Travel Capability Rating as ‘semi-independent’ or more dependent?
  

Visit School Transport's website to see if you qualify for financial assistance to help with the cost of transport and apply at www.schooltransport.com.au during May.

Late applications cannot be accepted after 31^st May.

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.