Saint Ignatius College Geelong
Last week of term
Tomorrow is the last day of classes for the term, and we look forward to the semester one break over the next two weeks. Over the last while, students have been very busy completing and then submitting final pieces of work for the semester. Teachers have also been very busy with corrections and writing the Semester One Reports.
These reports will be available online through the parent portal from 9 am on Tuesday 23rd July 2019. We do not have scheduled Parent/Students/Teacher Conferences to follow-up on these reports, however, parents are most welcome to contact teachers early next term to make a time to discuss student progress in response to these reports.
Tomorrow, the students will be dismissed at 2.20pm due to the special school bus timetable for the afternoon of the last day of term two. We will run six shortened periods so that all Friday classes will have some time on the day.
I wish all students a restful break and encourage them to spend some time revising and preparing for the next term. In particular, VCE students should be using some of this time to review the work covered to-date, preview and prepare for the work ahead and complete any set work given by teachers.
Please note that classes resume for term three on Tuesday, 16th July 2019. (Yr 12 VCE students will complete a mid-year English exam at the College on Monday 15th July between 9 am and 12:15 pm.) Monday 15th July 2019 will be a Teacher Professional Practice day, and there will be no regular classes on this day.
Principal leave
I am very grateful for the opportunity to take some of my sabbatical leave from the start of the forthcoming school holidays for five weeks. During this time, as part of my ongoing commitment to Education in Faith leadership studies, I will undertake a course, “Forming International Leaders in the New Evangelisation” through Australian Catholic University (ACU) at St Mary’s University in London, UK and ACU’s Rome Campus, Italy with visits to some schools and other significant locations in both countries.
During my absence, Deputy Principal, Mr Michael Timms will be Acting Principal.
Congratulations Fr Kevin Dillon on 50 years of priesthood!
On Sunday 1st June 1969, Fr Kevin was ordained at his “home parish” - Our Lady of Lourdes, Armadale. This was the beginning of his fifty years of connection with six parishes in Melbourne: East Bentleigh, Ivanhoe, Altona, Mitcham, Geelong and Rowville. Other roles during these fifty years include working at the Vocations Office, the organisation of the 1986 Papal Visit, and six years as Episcopal Vicar for Communications. Also, there are many, many significant achievements resulting from his leadership. However, for Fr Kevin, “it has been the ongoing and deep connection with parishes - and therefore with parishioners - that has been the keystone of my past fifty years as a priest.” In Geelong, we are very grateful for his time as Parish Priest of St Mary of the Angels where he provided extraordinary leadership and service to the Geelong Catholic and broader communities.
Our school community is very grateful for Fr Kevin’s generous support as President of the Association of Canonical Administrators during his time in Geelong. Fr Kevin served on the College’s Board, celebrated many, many student Masses and spoke at many major College events. His priestly ministry, his presence and his wise words were valued and enriched our school community, enhancing our Catholic ethos and identity. Many from the Geelong region, including myself and others associated with our College, travelled to Fr Kevin’s current parish, St Simon the Apostle, Rowville to attend a very special Mass and celebration afternoon tea on Sunday 2nd June so we could join in congratulating Fr Kevin on this milestone of 50 years of priesthood with gratitude and best wishes. Congratulations, Fr Kevin!
Staff news
Two staff members will be leaving, and another one will commence parental leave at the end of this term as follows.
Mrs Nella Costa (Finance/Admin. Officer)
Retirement is a significant decision to make in one’s life journey. It is important, as a school community, we recognise this milestone for one of our long-serving staff members, Mrs Costa. To do so, I look back with gratitude for Mrs Costa’s dedicated contribution since she commenced her involvement with the College in 1991 at the then Catholic Regional College in Geelong. She has been a vital member of the Finance/Admin team and in particular, worked in the areas of accounts (school fees and the ordering of and payment for resources) and bus coordination.
She has been a loyal and hardworking member of the College Community. Her three children, Anthony, Miranda and Richard, all attended the College.
In looking forward, on behalf of the College community, I wish Mrs Costa every blessing for a very happy, healthy and rewarding time as she commences the next chapter of her life. We will miss Nella. Thank you and best wishes.
Ms Brooke O’Brien (Year 8 Homeroom Teacher/English and RE Teacher)
Ms O’Brien has been a very well-regarded teaching member of staff at our College for nearly five years. Among many valuable contributions, she has taught senior English and coordinated the College’s “Personal Learning” program. I am very grateful for her dedicated, enthusiastic and hardworking approach that has benefited so many students. On behalf of the College, I wish Ms O’Brien all the best for her future.
Ms Elana Cole (Year 7 Homeroom Teacher/Indonesian, English and Humanities Teacher)
I wish Ms Cole all the best as she commences parental leave. We look forward to good news later in the year!
I thank Ms Cole for all she has done to date to settle the Yr 7 Carroll students into secondary school, and in particular, her work to build on the College’s “Companions” Program.
To replace these three staff members, I inform you of the following appointments.
We had plenty of notice about Mrs Costa’s retirement and have appointed Mrs Jenny Peters as “Assistant Business Manager”. Mrs Peters’ role includes many of the duties Mrs Costa performed.
Current teaching staff member, Mr Michael Tod (Year 7 Homeroom Teacher/RE and English Teacher) will change his teaching allocation to teach Ms O’Brien’s classes and become the Year 8 Montserrat Homeroom Teacher. Mr Tod will also take on the Debating role with Years 7 to 9 in support of Ms Andrea Dart.
I am grateful to a current teaching staff member, Mrs Gemma Tolan, who will take on the coordination of the “Personal Learning” Program.
With Mr Tod changing his teaching allocation, this meant that we needed another teacher to replace his current teaching load. I am glad that I could appoint Ms Amy Anderson to the College’s teaching staff. Ms Anderson will be the new Year 7 Miki Homeroom Teacher from the beginning of next term.
Mr Andrew Blackstone will be replacing Ms Cole for the remainder of this year and will be the Year 7 Carroll Homeroom Teacher.
I am grateful to a current teaching staff member, Ms Tory Wood, who will take on the “Companions” Program coordination.
Also, there have been a few changes to the subject teacher of some classes to help make the adjustments necessary to accommodate the changes mentioned above. These changes will be indicated on the relevant student Semester Two timetables available through our online Student Management System, ‘Xuno.’
World Challenge and Kokoda
Photos from our World Challenge immersion in northern India and our Kokoda trip can be view in the gallery.
Best wishes,
Michael Exton Principal
Privacy and information collection - Saint Ignatius College Geelong is bound by the Australian Privacy Principles contained in the Commonwealth Privacy Act 1998. In relation to health records, the School is also bound by the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic.). A copies of the College’s Privacy Policy and ‘Collection Notice’ that take into account these laws, technology and changes to the School’s operations and practices is available on our website. You can find the link at the bottom of the College’s web page.
As we finish the semester we enter into a fortnight of rest and relaxation. It amazes me how quickly two weeks passes during the holidays. Before you know it well-meaning people will be noting that ‘you have less than a week left!’. With this in mind it’s worth spending some time considering what holidays offer us and how we might best utilise the time offered.
School holidays vary throughout the year and from year to year. Some holidays are pre-planned with ‘holidays’ to overseas destinations or to locations in Australia some distance from home. The Christmas holidays are superb as the weather is hot, Christmas is celebrated and the whole family has a number of weeks together. The term one holidays always offer us excitement in the celebration of Easter and time with family and friends over an extended break, the weather is good so camping is always an option. The term three holidays are usually cold and wet – best spent somewhere north! The mid-year semester break is the period where we generally have not much is planned. The end of semester holidays are an excellent vehicle to explore the idea relaxation and contentment. Let’s consider how these coming weeks may be enhanced and offer more than we might normally experience.
Assuming nothing ‘big’ is planned these holidays we have fourteen days to fill. The first weekend is often spent idle. Many sports and hobbies have a break over the school holidays. So the first weekend is savoured as a time to ‘chill out. No school work (for teachers or students) and very little is planned. These first few days are a time to unwind and forget the day to day pressures that have for almost three months have become increasingly demanding.
Once the first weekend passes the challenge is to use the remaining days well. How might one best make use of time offered to rest and rejuvenate? There are a number of options. Take each day as it comes. Or have one activity planned each day so that days don’t simply drift by. Another option might be to book everyday fully and use every minute in doing something that is worthwhile. There is no right or wrong. We each spend the time as we see fit. Each day we are allotted 86400 seconds. How we use them in our holidays is completely up to us.
The beauty of the holidays is that they offer us freedom. We have no commitments. We can choose what we do and when we do it. With this freedom we can use the time in a manner that brings contentment and wholeness or we can ‘waste’ the time doing things that leave us unfulfilled. We individually judge what is time well spent and what is time wasted. What we do with our time is unique and personal. The key to enjoying our holidays is to be in control of our choices and in being able to evaluate what was done in that time as being of value.
I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.
Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the milky way,
They stretched in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:
Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.
The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:
A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:
I gazed—and gazed—but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought:
For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.
The poem offers a beautiful vision of nature that leads us to a sense of gratitude to God for his gift of creation. The images Wordsworth paints with his words are alone enough to draw us beyond our normal thoughts. They direct us to Ignatius’ vision of ‘finding God in all things’. Nature is remarkable in the way in which it can move us from the ordinary to the profound or transcendent. So much occurs perfectly without the need for our actions. Nature is truly breath-taking.
As we move towards the school holidays we have the chance to use these thoughts well by spending some time in contemplation. Going out and observing the world that is so often concealed from our gaze nourishes us spiritually. Nature can never lead us to a feeling of boredom. There is so much happening if we simply ‘be’ we will be awestruck with the complexity of the interactions occurring all around. The secret to experience these things is to begin.
Over the holidays I encourage you to make time each day to go out and observe. Do nothing. Do not go for a jog or walk the dog. These activities offer rewards we often experience. Spend the time doing something different. When you are comfortable with this practice go a step further. As Ignatius suggests intentionally seek to ‘find God’ in the moment. This experience may offer a profound insight to the absolute presence of God that can be camouflaged in our normal interactions. We find God easily in friendships or things such as music. Purposefully seeking God in the ordinary without doing enables us to see with great clarity how present God is in every way; endlessly.
However you may choose to spend your time over these holidays I hope that when we return as a community you can look back upon the two weeks and say that it was time well spent. I wish you well as you enter this break and that you might be able to take up the suggestion; get out, observe, seek God and relax.
Yours in Christ,
Brendan Nicholls Liturgy Coordinator
VCE Soiree
On Thursday May 23rd, our talented VCE music students performed their outcome 3 works at the Piano Bar in Geelong.
Over 100 parents and friends attended this fun evening. It was a great venue and the students, although very nervous, enjoyed themselves immensely. Many thanks to the parents, friends and staff who supported the students and to Eva Hay and Noah Gullan for being fabulous comperes.
“High School Musical Junior”
Over the past semester, the unit 3 theatre studies class has been extremely busy preparing and rehearsing ‘High School Musical Jr’ for there outcome 1 study requirements.
This has been a very busy time for the class, as each student as well and acting in the show, was also part of a design team. Whether it be set or lighting, costume or props we were able to work together and create/source many of the aspects for the show on our own.
This was an extremely beneficial and fun experience for all of us. Though at times it was a bit stressful, I am happy to say that we all, as a class, were able to overcome and adapt to any of the challenges thrown our way.
After a full week of intense final rehearsals, the big days finally arrived. Amazingly we were able to sell out both of our performances, each show leaving the audience singing along and begging for more! After speaking to many of the people who viewed the show, there was one clear consensus, that this was one of the best school musicals they had ever seen!
And this is 100% attributed to brilliant effort that each class member put in, so thank you very much for getting ya heads in the game and for always being ‘all in this together’.
A special thanks to Ms Walker, who calmly guided and mentored us all through this mammoth task! GO WILDCATS!!!
Noah Gullan, ‘High School Musical Jr’ Director
Year 7 Concert Band Evening
The students from Years 7 Borgia, Miki, Lewis, Claver and Ward presented an evening of musical excellence in the Potato Shed last week. Together with their tutors, they played a number of pieces as a large ensemble and in small instrumental groups. After only 2 terms of learning the technical realms of their instrument, they were able to play well in time with each other and played with good attention to tone and articulation.
Congratulations also to the Year 7 students who participated in the Honours Band, spending their own lunchtime preparing ‘We Will Rock You’. Thank you also the Junior Concert Band for presenting their item, which allowed the audience and insight into further musical opportunities at Saint Ignatius College next year.
A special thank you to the Instrumental Tutors Mrs Hobbs, Mr Corrin, Miss Cordell and Mr Neal, Ms Doble and Mrs Marrie for their hard work also.
A reminder that the Honorarium Application forms distributed at the event are due to the main office by Friday 28th June. Students who are being offered instruments for next term will be given their instrument to take home on this day also.
Veronica Marrie and Caitlin Doble
Lunchtime Concerts
Over the semester at our College, the music department has held an array of musical opportunities for students such as the music Thursdays which have been held over the past five or so weeks.
Up and coming, we have the “Feast Day Talent Quest” which will give the students the opportunity to have a sing and also maybe win some prize money. We also have the snap shot competition which is up and running and there have been many applicants for this competition.
I am looking forward to many more Arts activities next semester.
Jack Woodfine Arts Captain
Youth Classical Competition
Congratulations to year 12 music student, Sean Neylan, for coming runner up in the recent “Regional Youth Classical Competition”. We were all so proud of Sean getting through his tough heat weeks before and managing to land himself in the final which was held in McCauley Hall, Sacred Heart College on Sunday, June 2nd.
The contestants at this final were outstanding and so we were delighted that Sean played so brilliantly. Sean received $1,000 in prize money! Congratulations to Sean and also to his piano teacher Mr Adrian Montagnese.
Seaview Manor
On Tuesday June 25th, the Year 12 music class performed at “Seaview Manor” aged care. Many thanks to Glenn Chidzey who made us feel so welcome and to the beautiful residents who were so appreciative of the performances.
Sean Neylan, our pianist, was especially grateful for the beautiful grand piano.
Year 8 Assembly
The Year 8 assembly last week showcased a number of very talented students.
Congratulations to Summer De Vries, Genevieve Kelly, MacKinley Watson and Lily Petterwood who were just fabulous and entertained the year level so beautifully. These students have displayed such amazing talent at such a young age and I look forward to seeing them develop as our future performers of the college.
Enrolments Due
If students are interested in taking private lessons in public speaking, voice or an instrument, they are to obtain an enrolment form from the office and return it to me before Friday 28th June.
Dates for all Performing Arts performances for next semester will be in the next newsletter. Looking forward to seeing many parents and friends at our future concerts.
Yours musically,
Linda Pape Performing Arts Performance & Instrumental Coordinator
On Monday the 24th of June, the Year 9 Italian students were able to take a break from their regular classes of vocabulary and grammar learning to enjoy a cultural day. In light of the upcoming Italy tour launch, we started with a viewing of the Channel 9 show Travel Guides, where five groups of ordinary Aussies take on the job of travel critics, rating and reviewing their experience in some of the world’s favourite destinations.
We then went into Geelong for a rather large Italian meal, with garlic bread and pasta on the menu. A stroll Italian-style down to the waterfront helped us work off our lunch before we enjoyed a gelato in the chilly sunshine. A relaxing end to the term was enjoyed by all.
Christian Berti Languages Italian
Year 10s had a successful wellbeing day at Parks Hall Portarlington.
Students heard information about goal striving, mental health, positive friendships, growth mindsets and helpful thinking styles. Our guest speakers shared some powerful personal stories and you could tell from the questions students were asking that they were fully engaged and immersed in the program that was offered.
This program was put together by our wonderful wellbeing staff (Olivia, Sarah and Sally) so a big thankyou to that team. Year 10 Homeroom teachers also deserve a special mention for helping to facilitate the day's activities.
The day was most worthwhile and a great way to reflect and finish up a busy term prior to the work experience program.
Brendan O'Brien Year Level Coordinator - Year 10
On Thursday the 13th of June, three students from 8 Montserrat represented the College in the DAV Debating Competition.
Matthew Brennan, Rydah Schlink and Tiahni Paseuthsak attended Geelong Grammar School to compete. They, unfortunately, didn’t win, but it was extremely close and all of the team members did such an amazing job. It was a first time experience for two of our team. They had a lovely time competing against Geelong High with the topic being ‘That convicted criminals should not be allowed to publish accounts of their crimes.’
Congratulations to all of our Junior Debaters on a great performance.
Thank you to all the parents who were able to facilitate the students attending the competition in the evening, and to Ms O’Brien for her help and support with preparing us for this debate.
Report prepared by Year 8 students.
Photo in Gallery: From left: Matthew Brennan, Rydah Schlink and Tiahni Paseusthak.
On Thursday 13th June after school, myself and 4 other students participated in Round 4 of the DAV’s Senior Debating at Geelong Grammar School, accompanied by Ms Dart. The topic was: 'That we support violent protests' and we were the affirmative team.
It was a secret debate, meaning we only found out the topic one hour before the debate started. We went into a classroom and had one hour to brainstorm ideas, develop our line of argument and write our speeches. It was the first time any of us had ever participated in a secret debate and we were all pretty nervous. The hour of preparation passed incredibly quickly, but we worked really well as a team to develop strong arguments and rebuttal points in that time frame.
Noah Gullan (Year 11) strongly opened the debate as our first speaker, arguing that violent protests are necessary to make effective change and gain global attention. Our second speaker was Will Palmer (Year 11) who passionately argued that violent protests are required to gain media attention and raise awareness of inequalities around the world. Madeleine Crothers was our third speaker who provided an excellent rebuttal, lasting for over 6 minutes, and summing up about why we support violent protests. Madeleine should be congratulated as she spoke confidently and was awarded Joint Best Speaker in the debate. Joshua James (Year 11) and I were involved in the development of our team’s arguments during the hour of preparation time, however, we did not speak in the actual debate.
At the end of the debate the Adjudicator announced that we had defeated our opponents from Geelong High School by 3 points, so we were proud and excited.
We would like to thank Ms Dart for all her hard work and support with Senior Debating, and encourage anyone who is interested in Debating at SICG to contact Ms Dart!
Ruby Mangelsdorf (Year 12) Academic Captain
Photo in Gallery: From left: Noah Gullan (Year 11); Joshua James (Year 11); Madeleine Crothers (Year 12); Ruby Mangelsdorf (Year 12); William Palmer (Year 11).
Saint Ignatius College Geelong recently offered senior students the opportunity to raise awareness for refugees through participating in “The Cage” during Refugee Week. This activity has more than 30 students and 4 staff staying behind temporary fencing for a 22-hour period in order to raise awareness about the hardships faced by refugees.
The students and staff stayed in “The Cage” throughout the day and slept outside on yoga mats through the night. During the school day many classes came to visit The Cage, where the students participating shared the current issues surrounding refugees and asylum seekers and how to advocate for change. There were also a number of activities at lunchtime on the day of “The Cage” including banner signing and letter writing.
Some students also participated in the “Ration Challenge” in which students were challenged to eat meals that were similar to those of refugees. This include simple ingredients like a small ration of rice, lentils, kidney beans, flour and sardines. Some students participated in the “Ration Challenge” for 3 days and some for 7 days. There were more than 40 students and about 8 staff who took part in the “Ration Challenge”.
In support of the “Ration Challenge” the dinner for the participants in “The Cage” was plain rice and lentils. Spices could only be added after raising a certain amount of money. Students expressed the difficulties through the fact many could not finish the challenge or used spices in order to make the meals more edible, and also realising this is not an option for refugees in camps. Participants in the “Ration Challenge” also raised money for refugees and Jesuit Refugee Services.
In the afternoon, Anne Nesbit from the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) alongside Deruka Dekuek a refugee from South Sudan, came to share the work they are currently doing. Currently JRS are working in over 51 countries for displaced persons, the JRS head office in Sydney offers accommodation, assistance into the work force as well as food bank for refugees in Australia.
JRS supported Deruka Dekuek in receiving a scholarship to a university in Australia. Deruka Dekuek shared her experience in which she was forced to leave her home after it was set on fire by rebels and then had to live in a swamp for 7 years. Following this, she lived in a refugee camp until she could be resettled. Later, she started her education at the age of 16, in which she received top marks in all her subjects. The opportunity for her to move to Australia allowed herself and 5 children to receive an education. Now she is a popular advocate for JRS and has completed a Masters degree.
This activity was extremely valuable and we are all excited to educate others and advocate change throughout our community. This exercise has motivated all students who attended and has encouraged us to follow the school motto and “Be the Difference”.
On average refugees spend 17 years in a UN refugee camp.
To learn more go to https://www.jrs.org.au/
Both events - “The Cage” and the “Ration Challenge” - were organised by Alicia Deak, the Ignatian Coordinator, and Justice and Service Coordinator at Saint Ignatius College Geelong, as part of the College’s support for Refugee Week. The theme for Refugee Week this year is 'A World of Stories'.
By Maddie Crothers (College Captain) and Isabella Harry (Social Justice Captain)
On Wednesday 19th of June students studying VCE Unit 3 and 4 Physical Education had the opportunity to visit and experience the unique sporting and testing facilities at Exercise Research Australia in Thornbury, Melbourne.
Exercise Research Australia (ERA) engaged our students for a four-hour period by using an interactive approach based around the curriculum covered in Units 3 and 4. The students participated in three sessions; Theory, Energy Systems and Biomechanics.
The purpose of the excursion was to allow students to gain first hand experience of how to apply key concepts to athletic performance, to further enhance their understanding of school assessed coursework using laboratory activities and to work with leading Australian sports scientists in a nationally recognised testing facility.
Many thanks to Coby and Riley (VO2 Max Test), Mitchell (Anaerobic Analysis) and Megan and Emily (Biomechanical Analysis) for participating and allowing the class to assess their fitness and technique. All of these participants obtained excellent results for all the students to study. Also well done to all of the students for representing the College in a pleasing manner.
Many thanks to Jason Broadbear (Health and Physical Education Learning Area Leader) for attending and supporting the students in gaining further knowledge in this area.
Joe McLean Year 12 Coordinator
Applying determination and resilience to reach your goals.
An Evening with Tom Lonergan
Year 11 and 12 students and their parents/guardians are invited to join us on Wednesday the 24th of July at 6pm for an evening with Tom Lonergan.
Where: St. Thomas Church, Peninsula Drive, Drysdale.
Time: 6pm. (Event duration is approximately 1 hour).
Although this is a free event, please register your booking at: www.trybooking.com/BDDWN
For further information contact: Ms. Elana Cole (Companions Coordinator) colee@ignatius.vic.edu.au
Open Days a really good opportunity to explore the campus and get a feel for the university or tertiary institution. There are lectures held for the courses of interest and explainations of what you might be studying and how to apply for the course. It is also an opportunity to meet staff and current students and get a feel for the institution you would like to attend.
A list of the VTAC Open days for 2019 can be viewed here:
A PDF of our Canteen Price List can be downloaded here
Starting July 15th
Monday 15th
No Canteen: Student Free Day
Tuesday 16th
S. Twaits, R. Morris, L. Vella
Wednesday 17th
C. Whitworth, K. James, S. Peters
Thursday 18th
M. White, J. Martino, L. Eastwood
Friday 19th
C. Ford, M. Grabowsky, S. MacKay
Starting July 22nd
Monday 22nd
N. Van Vliet, A. Schneider, J. Gray
Tuesday 23rd
L. Tigani, M. Jackson, N. Robinson
Wednesday 24th
L. Vella, Needed, Needed
Thursday 25th
N. Lowther, Needed, Needed
Friday 26th
L. Grant, E. Stokie, Needed
If unable to attend, please make sure you get a replacement.
Sandra Woodall Tel: 0417 050 258
Few right-minded people want children or young people to experience hardships or difficulty. However growing up generally means that kids will experience their fair share of hardships, frustrations and challenges which lead to uncomfortable feelings.
Exercising their discomfort muscles
Tolerating discomfort is an important resilience skill. It refers to an ability to sit with an uncomfortable or emotionally painful feeling such as disappointment, apprehension, nervousness or fear. These emotions can be brought about as a result of not being picked for a team; getting lower than expected marks for an assignment; or going into new, unfamiliar situation such as school camp. These are the sorts of every day situations that can make some kids feel uncomfortable. It’s helpful to think of discomfort as a ‘muscle’ that gets stronger with training. Each time a child or teen successfully tolerates discomfort they’re reinforcing their ability to do so and cementing the knowledge that they can overcome emotional challenges.
Opportunities to practise tolerating discomfort
Opportunities for practice are plentiful and are found in common situations such as when a child or teen is: feeling hungry; wanting something they can’t have; having to end screen time; contributing to household chores when they don’t feel like it; missing out on a job interview; asking someone on a date or not receiving a party invitation.
It’s not toughing it out
Tolerating discomfort doesn’t mean toughing out an unbearable situation. It’s teaching your anxious child to notice how they’re feeling, naming their emotions, and practising acceptance of difficult feelings as they occur. This is done in the knowledge that what they’re experiencing is temporary and that they’re lovingly supported by a warm and comforting adult. Couple tolerating discomfort with social rewards (such as words of praise or shared fun activity) for coping behaviours and you’re helping to build their personal resilience.
Michael Grose
Michael Grose, founder of Parenting Ideas, is one of Australia’s leading parenting educators. He’s the author of 10 books for parents including Thriving! and the bestselling Why First Borns Rule the World and Last Borns Want to Change It, and his latest release Spoonfed Generation: How to raise independent children.
Become a part of the Parents and Friends' Association
We invite you to join the Saint Ignatius College Parents and Friends' Association - whether it be attending our monthly meetings, helping out at fundraising events , you can receive some up to date information on events coming up at and around the College by emailing your details to sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au
After our last meeting we were given the opportunity to join the “Digital Tattoo Session” conducted by Lee Bartlett from Batforce. The session opened our minds to recognising that we still have a huge impact on our children through our actions and words – both of which are detrimental on how we use modern technology today – and how this modern technology effects the everyday life of our children. Well done Lee and Juddy for organizing and presenting this session.
Parents and Friends' Meeting for June 2019
Please come and join us on Tuesday July 16th at 7.00pm in the Food Tech Rooms.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Email your details to us at: sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au
Even if you can’t make it to the monthly meetings, but think you might be able to be on call to help at the different things we are involved in, please get in touch with us.
The Uniform Shop
Please note that Uniform shop will be open every second Wednesday from 2pm to 4 pm. Remaining dates for Term 2 are: Wednesday June 12 and 26.
If you are able to assist and help us out in the Uniform Shop we would love to hear from you!
Please email sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au Training is provided.
Entertainment Book (2019/2020)
It’s on again – please help support Saint Ignatius College by purchasing an Entertainment Book - feel free to visit the front Office for details, or email Sandi Clark on: sicgpandf@ignatius.vic.edu.au
Buy a new membership before 11.59pm JUNE 1st, 2019 and get a bonus $10 Priceline eGift card!
Terms and Conditions:
$10 Priceline eGift card. Limit one per membership order.
Offer valid for Entertainment Book or Digital Memberships purchased between 12am Tuesday May 28th and Saturday June 1st 11.59pm 2019 AEST.
eGift card will be sent by email within 14 days of order.Priceline eGift cards expire after 36 months of the issue date.
Priceline eGift Cards Terms of Use: HTTPS://WWW.PRICELINEGIFTCARD.COM.AU/PRICELINE/CMS/PAGE/GIFTCARDTERMS
Join Saver Plus and we'll match your savings, dollar for dollar, up to $500 for school costs.
To join Saver Plus, you must be at least 18 years or over, have a child at school or attend vocational education yourself, have regular income from paid employment (you or your partner), have a current Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card and be in receipt of an eligible Commonwealth social security benefit, allowance or payment.
Contact: Your local Saver Plus Coordinator
Phone: 03 5278 8122 Email: GeelongSP@bethany.org.au Web: www.saverplus.org.au
See PDF flyer for details:
Information for Parents
Every Victorian child should have access to the world of learning opportunities that exist beyond the classroom. The Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund helps ensure that no student will miss out on the opportunity to join their classmates for important, educational and fun activities. It is part of making Victoria the Education State and the Government’s commitment to breaking the link between a student’s background and their outcomes.
Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF)
School camps provide children with inspiring experiences in the great outdoors, excursions encourage a deeper understanding of how the world works and sports teach teamwork, discipline and leadership.
CSEF is provided by the Victoria Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities.
If you hold a valid means-tested concession card or are a temporary foster parent, you may be eligible for CSEF. A special consideration category also exists for asylum seeker and refugee families. The allowance is paid to the school to use towards expenses relating to camps, excursions or sporting activities for the benefit of your child.
The annual CSEF amount per student is:
For more details and how to apply for CSEF see the attached PDF.
Local Community and Sporting groups you may be interested in.
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
A journey of Faith – we are all on this journey and we are on it together!
And we encourage, support, challenge, pray for one another – we can’t be Christians on our own we need a community to help us! Are you someone who may like to be part of this journey with us?
Maybe you…
Have been encouraged by our priest, Fr Darien, or our Pastoral Assistant Sr Nola Morrissy, to learn about the Catholic Faith because your child is preparing for Holy Communion or Confirmation;
Want to know more about what your child is learning at the catholic school;
Are seeking to understand more about God’s place in your life;
Are looking for something to give more meaning to your life;
Want to belong to a community whose beliefs & values you want to know more about.
elowA leaflet entitled “RCIA, A Journey in Faith” is attached b and is also available from the school office.
Should you wish to talk to a member of the RCIA team, contact details can be obtained from the school office.
Please be in touch with Fr Darien on 5258 1673, or Sandra Gould on email: sandra@salmandra.com if you wish to know more – a friendly reception awaits you – no question is a ‘silly one’! An Enquiry Night will be held on Tues 20th August; if you wish to attend that night please contact Fr Darien or Sandra by the 13th August.
Jamie's Ministry of Food School Holiday Program
Do you have a budding chef at home who wants to do something fun this school holidays? You’re in luck because Jamie’s Ministry of Food now offers a school holiday program.
Over 4 days your child will learn to cook Jamie Oliver’s nutritious and delicious recipes. It’s a fun and entertaining way to learn loads of Jamie Oliver hints, tips and shortcuts and the cooking skills to set them up for life.
See the attached PDF for details.
Fr Rob Galea ' Coming Home' Tour
The ‘Coming Home’ concert tour features Fr Rob Galea and his band performing songs from Fr Rob’s latest album, his eighth music production, ‘Coming Home’.
The tour will be Catholic music as you have not heard before in a new contemporary style for Fr Rob and his band. A quality and uplifting presentation of Christian music with outstanding lighting, visual and sound production. Fr Rob’s music brings a positive message in a modern style appealing to all ages and will include a selection of his much loved songs from previous albums during a 2 hour show which will have you singing along from the start to the finish. It is a rare public concert and one not to be missed.
The Victorian concert date announced for 2019 is: Melbourne – The Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds, 14th July at 5pm
What's On in July at the Potato Shed!
The Potato Shed have a variety of performances to suit people of all ages. Please find attached the What’s On poster for events coming up in July. You are advised to book early as many events sell out.
GSODA Junior Players: 'Hercules the Panto!
GSODA Junior Players are very excited to be presenting 'Hercules the Panto!’
He’s strong, mighty, a hero, all singing, all dancing, and here in Geelong!
In a venue as big as he is, get ready for Hercules - The Panto to take to the stage in The Geelong Arena in 2019.
Let the GSODA Junior players transport you to Athens, to the theatre of Dionysus, in a pantomime that promises to have you clutching your stomach, rolled over in balls of laughter, tapping your toes along to a catchy catalogue of multigenerational hits, and dancing away in your seats.
A classic tale with a healthy dose of twists and turns, this story is unlike any version of Hercules that you have ever seen or heard before. Will Hercules find his true love? Will Medusa run a successful hair styling business? Will the Kings daughter marry a pop star?
Confused? Come along to the Geelong Arena to see Hercules - The Panto, and all will be revealed!
Directed by Nicole Kaminski, Vocal Direction by Shayne Lowe and Choreography by Jana Kolacz
City of Greater Geelong Free Parenting Forum: Calming Our Kids
This forum presented by the City of Greater Geelong with guest speaker Maggie Dent who is an advocate for healthy, common-sense raising of children in order to strengthen families and communities. Thursday June 27th, 7.00pm to 8.30pm with a light supper available from 6.30pm and the Moolap & Barrabool Hills Baptist Church in Highton. Pleae see the attached PDF for details and how to book tickets.
Did your Year 7 students miss their vaccines at school?
See the list below of Immunisation Centres and Hours:
Belmont Community Health Centre
Barwon Health 1-17 Reynolds Road, Belmont, 3216.
(Please note that this is the Barwon Health building, not the Maternal Child Health building)
Wednesday morning (Appointment only) 9 am - 12.30pm
Open sessions (No appointment required) Wed and Friday afternoons 1.30pm - 4.45pm
Saturday morning (Appointment only) 08.30am – 12.15pm
Corio Community Health Centre
Barwon Health 2 Gellibrand St, Corio, 3214.
Every Wednesday 9.30am - 11.45am (No appointment required)
Newtown “Ariston”
245 Pakington St, Newtown, 3220.
1st Friday of each month 9.30am -11.45am (No appointment required)
Ocean Grove - Boorai Centre (behind Aquatic Centre)
4-50 Shell Rd, Ocean Grove, 3226.
2nd and 4th Friday of each month 9.30am -11.45am (No appointment required)
Newcomb Library meeting room (upstairs)
Corner Wilsons Rd & Bellarine Highway, Newcomb, 3219.
1st and 3rd Friday of each month 9.30 – 11.45am (No appointment required)