Absentee Line - Text 0417 596 611 or Phone Primary 8150 2397, Secondary 8150 2323 or Email student.reception@smc.sa.edu.au

News

Term 4 Week 1&2 2022

From the Principal

FAREWELL TO THE CLASS OF 2022.

As another school year draws quickly to a close, formal classes for Year 12 students concluded and the traditional Graduation events were held this week.

Students and their families gathered with staff for the Year 12 Graduation Mass on Thursday.  This is the penultimate formal College event before the much anticipated Graduation Ball.

The Graduation Mass is a significant event and perhaps the most special as it is a time when we openly celebrate St Michael’s College as a Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition and recognise the unique gifts of the 2022 graduands.  It is a tradition at this event to present the De La Salle Award to the student who best personifies the spirit and values of the College.  This award is the highest award offered by the College and in 2022, the award was presented to College Captain, Massimo Cavallo.

Massimo was exemplary in his leadership, service and dedication to the role of College Captain.  He actively supported the religious and social justice initiatives of the College, was committed to study and achieved at a level commensurate with his ability, as well as being an active contributor to the co-curricular program and wider life of the College.  Massimo set a fine example to his peers, and we congratulate and thank him for his service to the College.

Other members of the 2022 cohort were recognised for their achievements at the Graduation Assembly which was held during Week 1 of this term.  We acknowledge and congratulate the award winners below and also thank them for their contributions to the College.

For Outstanding Contribution to the College and Community    –      Nick Boeyen

For Outstanding Contribution to the College and Community   –       Bailey Cortes

For Outstanding Contribution to the College and Community    –      Andjela Stojanovic

Co-curricular Artist Award    –   Megan Adrain

Female Athlete of the Year  –   Tayla Dawkins

Male Athlete of the Year     –    Riley Stubing

Service to the College     –       Madison Caldwell

Mary MacKillop Award     –      Anah Reaiche

ADF Award – Year 12  – Lyndon Williamson

Ampol Best All Rounder     –      Avah Topp

Mary Colton Award  –   Nicholas Costa

Student Citizenship Award (Order Of Australia)     –     Rana Hussien

College Community Leadership Award (Mark Butler School Award)  – Massimo Cavallo

Brian Gilbertson Co-curricular Artist Music Award    –   Harriet McClure

As the 2022 Graduands leave us this week to prepare for their exams, we trust they continue to recognise and grow their many gifts and talents and use them well for their own good and for the good of others, sharing the Lasallian spirit in the wider community and looking towards the challenges and opportunities ahead with excitement and hope.

IMPORTANT COVID REMINDER

To protect our school community, staff and students are requested to observe the following:

  • If you are unwell, please stay home.
  • If you have cold or flu symptoms, you should get tested for COVID-19.
  • If you have COVID-19, please stay at home until your acute symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, cough and fever) have cleared. In consideration for the health of others, when you return to school, please wear a mask while indoors until 7 days have passed since your symptoms first started or since you tested positive, (whichever is earliest).

Mr Damian Patton, Acting Principal

Weekly Communication and Important Dates

RIP

Mrs. Olga Gasparin
Much loved grandmother of Aiden Gasparin (Year 12), Ryan Gasparin (Year 10), Mia Xenikoudis (Year 9) and Ben Xenikoudis (Year 7 next year)

Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, Rest In Peace. Amen

IMPORTANT DATES

Wednesday 2nd November

Year 12 2021 Yearbook Collection Day 5-6pm

Thursday 3rd November

Primary Campus College Tour 9.30-10.30am

Year 12 Visual Art/Design/Tech Exhibition – 6-8pm

Memorial Mass 7pm

Friday 4th November

Primary Sports Day (held at the Henley Campus)

Monday 7th November

Year 12 exams begin

Tuesday 8th November

Primary Instrumental Concert

Wednesday 9th November

Year 8 Immunisations

Primary Campus College Tour 4-4:45pm

Year 10 Drama Production 4pm show and Thursday 10th November – 7pm show

Friday 11th November

Remembrance Day Ceremonies at both campuses

Primary Campus

Let us take you on a virtual tour exploring our wonderful new $8 million Primary facilities building project
Primary Flythrough

Click here to enjoy our exciting virtual fly-through!

Works have commenced on stage 2A, due to be completed prior to the beginning of the 2023 school year.  Stage 2B will commence in the new year.

Stage 2A includes two new classrooms modelled on our new Reception classrooms and breakout spaces, including wet areas to support a variety of key learning areas. It will also comprise of a staff preparation and both boys and girls toilets.

 Stage 2B includes is a new two-story building includes a Performing Arts Centre comprising of a Music Centre, six Music Tutorial rooms, and Dance and Drama rooms, which will provide a specialist facility rarely seen in a Primary environment. The ground floor will also incorporate a new Canteen.

Dylan Alcott Visit

An amazing opportunity was offered to a group of SMC students to hear from guest speaker, Wheelchair Tennis Superstar, Australian of the Year – Dylan Alcott on Wednesday 19th of Oct. Dylan was an engaging speaker filled with great insight, knowledge and humour. He even brought along his Beijing Olympic Gold Medal for the students to see and hold. We thank Mount Carmel College for inviting us to be a part of this presentation.

The SMC representatives were from Year 11 – Lasallian Youth Leaders: Lily Mae Balkwill, Amy Buck, Steph Musci, Isabella Agnos, Jack Phillips, Chelsea Burt, Paul Choimes and Giovanni Troia. Representing the Primary Campus – Cooper McLaughlin, Joseph Esposito, Charlie Santos-Tait, Luca Montagnese and Tyhsen Javier.

Mr Nathan Rose, Acting Director Student Wellbeing and Administration

Earth day will be celebrated on Thurs 3rd November

Earth Day has been inspired and organised by a group of students from the Youth Environmental Leaders (YELS), who also designed the poster : Max Howell, Joshua Grieger, Sebastian Krol, Sachit Singh, Bailey Palmer, Jack Miteff, Veer Solanki and Toby Kannane.

A range of activities will take place along with lessons outside, and the secondary Eco squad and Year 11 Society and Culture students will be assisting. A Recycle Station will be set up for parent drop offs for:
Batteries, mobile phones & cords, small electrical items, bread tags.

This group of students have also worked on projects with the House Leaders to design ECO House points and litter clean ups, raised over $700 on a market stall as well as garden and wetland, chicken maintenance jobs each week.

Secondary Campus

Year 12 Photography

Photography is the art, application and practice of creating still images that provoke a memory, challenge perception, tell a story, represent a culture, reflect a society, or capture an imagination. The Year 12 Photography students were set this challenge and the outcome is amazing.

Throughout the year students learnt how to use specialised equipment and software, as well as applying compositional elements and techniques to develop successful outcomes. We share with you a glimpse of the exceptional work our Photography students have created this year, and take the opportunity to celebrate their achievements and wish the best to the Year 12 Photography class.

Mrs Maria Cardillo, Head of Department, Digital Technologies

Food Tech Pizza Making

Our Year 10 Food Technology class had a visit from Mattia’s Pizza, learning how to make traditional pizza dough from scratch and cook their creations to perfection. This experience was thoroughly enjoyed by all, and we look forward to watching our students put their new skills to good practice in the future. How amazing does this Pizza look!

Myri Kyriacou, Education Support Officer (Food Technology Assistant)

Year 7 Artwork with a focus on patterns

Visual Art classes: 7GPC-02 & 7GPC-04
Using a combination of tribal art, mandalas, psychedelic art and pop-art, these Year 7 girls used their drawing, colouring and pattern work skills to create these brilliant pieces! We will also share some additional artwork in the upcoming weeks.

Mr David De Lorenzis, Italian, Digital Technologies and Visual Arts Teacher

Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Vaping In Schools Across Australia – Different Management Strategies

Dear SMC Community,

Vaping has become the ‘new smoking’ for a range of children across Australia with many of the current manufacturers being smoking companies. This activity does not discriminate across gender or age, with countless young people being tempted to explore the trend. We know that for some young people, this can be addictive, and the substances contained in the vapes can be dangerous and unpredictable. As a College, we deem this not only illegal but also unsafe and high-risk to our students, community and College brand.

In recent months, many reports, research and programs have been written about the dangers of Vaping. Schools are a micro-community of the real world. As a Catholic school in the Lasallian tradition, we continue to see what other schools are doing in this space and the cutting educational and pastoral programs we can provide to support our students. For students in Years 7-9, we continue to work with Life Education, and for students in Years 10-12, we work closely with Paul Dillon and DARTA to provide the very best information about being safe. Some schools have taken drastic measures to lock bathrooms during lesson times. Students at these schools must obtain a key or swipe card to access the area. We have not put this in place at SMC, but we do ask that all students only go to the bathroom by themselves during class or break times. There is no need to go to the bathroom in groups or pairs; if we do see this, we can only assume they are using their mobile phones or Vaping. A key reason we do not want more than ONE student attending the toilet space at a time is to eliminate the temptation of peer pressure. The College would like all of our students to make good choices.

St Michael’s is investigating and looking at installing Vape Detectors, which can create a safer community by alerting a Leadership team member if any Vaping is detected in a particular space. We are working towards installing floor-to-ceiling toilets across the campus for student safety and privacy. As a College, we are also investigating if the current student ID cards could be used as swipe cards to use bathroom facilities.

We continue to monitor, engage and work in partnership with health authorities and educational providers to deter young people from Vaping. We want our students to flourish and realise their potential in making informed decisions that minimise the harm that Vaping can cause. The information provided advises that Vapes are not in any way safer than cigarettes and can often be much more dangerous to an individual’s health.

Moving forward, we will continue to engage with Life Education and Paul Dillon (DARTA). The College will also support staff, parents and caregivers around this current trend, the current forms of vaping, and the paraphernalia that continue to evolve. We will look to run further parent and caregiver sessions as we move forward and continue to learn more about this dangerous and unsafe practice.

I wish to remind all parents and caregivers that we have counselling services available for all SMC students and can also provide contact details for external providers that support individuals on addiction or Vaping activities.

In closing, I would like to remind families that following the St Michael’s College policies and procedures form part of every student’s enrolment. Students caught with Vaping products, Vaping on school grounds or even selling such items will be managed by a member of the Leadership team. This may result in difficult conversations around suspensions and expulsion from the community for the more serious matters.

Mr Matthew Williams, Deputy Principal Pastoral

YEARS 7-9 WELLBEING CHARACTER STRENGTH FOCUS

Week 1: HUMOUR

Laughing has a way of making us feel good. When was the last time you had a huge belly laugh? We can all relate to how good that feels- as though we are laughing all the way from our toes. There are some people I know who have the most amazingly contagious laugh- the kind that instantly makes you want to join in when you hear it, even if you are completely unaware of what they are laughing about. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to bottle this laughter- to be uncorked at a later time when you
could really use a laugh or two? A recent article I read suggested that if we record our laughter and listen to it, it makes us laugh in about 90% of cases.

Research evidences that laughter has a huge impact on our physical and mental health. It strengthens our immune system, reduces the impact of pain through the release of endorphins and helps to soften the impact of stress. It can inspire us towards a brighter tomorrow, keep us grounded and balanced and also importantly, it can help us forgive each other when things don’t work as they should and we are hurt. It goes without saying that all of this is beneficial to our relationships and happiness, knowing, valuing and caring for each other, as a Community.

Like all strengths, it’s also true that humour has to be used in the right balance and context, so that it is not a shadow-strength or negative in its purpose. It should never hurt or become ‘weaponized’- created at someone else’s expense. As we indicate to students, the age-old excuse of ‘It was just a joke’ is never acceptable as misused humour can result in someone feeling harassed, bullied or excluded.

Unfortunately, the world of comedy does not always set the best example. Even if I think back to those great films I watched and loved as a child- Abbott and Costello (Who’s on First?), Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis (really showing my age!). Though I didn’t really get it at the time, the humour was often based on the misfortune of one of the characters, and the ability of the stronger character to manipulate the situation, asserting control or superiority in some way.

Sometimes it’s hard to tone down the humour in us when it’s one of our top strengths, especially when we are adolescents. It can become a shadow strength. But it’s interesting to note that the strength that can sometimes make a learning environment challenging can also be one of the most important of strengths that enables our young people to navigate Challenge, make connections and fruitful networks, resolve conflict, find hope and support each other, towards flourishing. As a result, it is not a strength we want to see disappear, but it is one we need to learn to use more knowingly as we journey through adolescence, in the best context, for the learning of every person around us. This helps us develop the Choice to be the best leaders and learners of the world we can be.

Week 2: HONESTY

Our Week 2 strength is Honesty, and when we are honest, we speak the truth. We present ourselves in a genuine way, without pretending to be someone else, and we take responsibility for our feelings and actions, acting consistently with our values.

At St Michael’s such values also underpin the Mission and Vision that is Community, Challenge and Choice; making choices that reflect the values of the Lasallian ethos. It goes without saying that when we try to respond with honesty and integrity, this influences our relationships and our state of wellbeing in a positive direction; we are trusted.

Sometimes we can find honesty hard in challenging situations. Even the apostles found honesty tricky as we know that when Jesus was on trial for his life, his friend Peter denied knowing him, despite previously indicating he would never do this. “I don’t know him, I never knew him, I never saw him before.”

In my Religion class this week, we are discussing conscience and decision making. As it is a Religion Class with Italian language and culture content, we have been reflecting on Carlo Collodi’s Pinocchio- the Disney version, and the messaging and symbolism of the story. I wondered as I sat preparing this curriculum, of an evening in my family room at home, why Collodi chose to represent Pinocchio’s conscience as a cricket, and as I sat reflecting, noticed the loud and constant chirping of the crickets outside. I don’t always hear them- or perhaps I don’t always listen for them! Pinocchio, as we know, had some trouble navigating temptation and when he didn’t listen to Jiminy cricket’s advice, things didn’t end well.

In encouraging honesty in our children, available literature indicates, amongst other advice that like most aspects of parenting, role modelling is important, perhaps even discussing the ‘white lies’ we might tell to protect their childhood at a stage when they are old enough to understand. Celebrating honesty in difficult situations is also a plus, even when it may not be what we want to hear. The way we respond to the honesty of our children can highlight that honesty nurtures trust; an important feature of all meaningful relationships.
Honesty allows us to be at peace with ourselves, and this is so important to our wellbeing and to our relationships with other people. When we are honest in our actions this also have a positive knock-on effect on our community and world around us. It can help us to know, value and care for each other, as our Vision and Mission at St Michael’s would suggest.
Have a great Week 3 ahead, hopefully with lots of honest, belly laughs!

Tonia Carfora, Year 7-9 Wellbeing Initiatives Leader

Careers and VET Services

Year 12 Students and families

We wish the Year 12 students all the best in the final stage of their SACE assessments and we will continue to send students and parent Career information emails right through until SACE results release. Monday 19th December will be the day we will be here at the College to support students on SACE Results Release Day.

The Year 12 students have recently completed an Intended Destination Survey and have provided their private emails on this and it is that email we will begin using from mid November. As students change emails or mobiles we ask they email rose.coorey@smc.sa.edu.au so we can keep the database up to date. If students secure employment we would also like to know so we can amend this on the database and of course celebrate that – as they transition to become a part of our Old Scholars group, which provides a range of opportunities and reunions in the future.

Year 11 and Year 12 SACE Community Learning Extra SACE Points

Students can get extra SACE points for their participation in various approved Community Learning activities. These points cannot contribute to the compulsory sections within SACE, but once listed, they do generate points in excess of the 200 required to achieve SACE. There is no other advantage of having extra SACE points beyond the set 200, but it may be nice to have the actual approved Community Learning Activity acknowledged and recorded on a student’s SACE Record of Achievement.

If students have been involved in Community experiences like Surf Lifesaving, Duke of Edinburgh, Music and Dance qualifications, Cadets, etc then it is worth checking out the link of approved involvement.
https://www.sace.sa.edu.au/studying/recognised-learning/community-learning and click on the link for Recognised Community Developed Programs

If a student wishes to claim these SACE points they can collect a form from the Display Wall in the LEC, complete it and attach colour photocopies of the required certificates and return to Mr Schirripa via Student Service ASAP. Ms Coorey, Career Counsellor is also available to help with any questions.

Parents and Guardian’s Guide for School Leavers

The Parents and Guardian’s Guide for School Leavers summarises the resources and information available to help you explore all the education, training, and work options available to your young person.

Parents and Guardian’s Guide for School Leavers (Word 426KB)
The Parents and Guardian’s Guide has also been translated into additional languages.

The School Leavers Information Kit contains more detail and is designed for your young person to help them navigate their post school options.

If you have a young person with a disability or special education need who is a school leaver, you can also contact the School Leavers Information Service for tailored support or guidance for your young person. Call 1800 CAREER(External website) (1800 227 337) to speak with an Information Officer.
https://www.yourcareer.gov.au/school-leavers-support/parents-and-guardian-s-guide-for-school-leavers

SPARK THEIR FUTURE

We provide this information and link to the Spark Their Future website created and managed by the Queensland Education Department, called Spark Their Future. It has a wealth of resources and covers many topics relevant to parenting teens. Topics range from mental health, decision making, anger management, bullying, homework, subject selection etc. Whilst it has a Queensland perspective many resources and useful no matter what state.

Upcoming Information Sessions

TAFESA Art Design Courses
• TAFE SA | Arts and Design Information Sessions

Wednesday 2 November
6.00 – 8.00pm
TAFE SA, Adelaide Campus

Find out more about the following courses on offer at TAFE SA:
• Advanced Diploma Program in Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising (Generalist)
• Certificate III in Applied Fashion Design and Technology
• Bachelor of Creative Arts (Fashion) – Flinders University
• Bachelor of Creative Arts (Costume Design) – Flinders University

Graduating Year 12 students looking for an overseas experience in 2023

Camp America
https://www.campamerica.com.au/

Camp Counsellor USA
CCUSA is one of Australia’s top summer camp and international work adventure specialist
We have something for everyone!

WORK IN SUMMER CAMPS: You could be working at a summer camp in America, Canada, Croatia or Russia, leading a group of children in various activities including sports, arts, water and outdoor adventures and many more.
 WORK IN SKI RESORTS: Spend a winter season working and playing at one of the premier ski resorts in the US & Canada.
 WORK IN THE UK: Pubs work
 WORK IN USA: Job in your degree field, Tourism, Hospitality and many more.
These are just a few of the great opportunities CCUSA can provide you!

Since 1985, we have been dedicated to providing the highest level of service in summer camp jobs, work and travel experiences and volunteer adventures. We have placed hundreds of thousands of young people in positions at summer camps and seasonal jobs across the USA, as well as in other countries around the world.
CCUSA is an American owned company whose head office is based in San Rafael, California. With a fulltime office and many more local representatives based right here in Australia – we have the support network, knowledge and expertise to assist you in your ultimate international adventure.
If you’re ready to take off on your own overseas adventure, simply browse through our available programs and pick one that is perfect for you. We’ll help you do the rest

International College of Hotel Management ICHM

Discovery Day
Come and see why ICHM was named the best hotel and hospitality school in Australia.
• Wed 9 Nov 20222 9.30am- 2.30pm
• Thur 8 Dec 2022 9.30am- 2.30pm
Register to come along!

Discovery Day 2022 (ichm.edu.au)

Year 11 Students considering taking on an approved University Subject in 2023.

Within SACE there are very generous provisions for a Year 12 student to undertake a University/ Higher Education Subject. Students apply to the College for approval and then to the University. Students can undertake one subject each semester and it can contribute to a students ATAR. BUT please be aware because it is factored in to the ATAR as Recognised Studies, only the University Higher Ed subject(s) or a Certificate 3 can be included. Given the value of the experience in transitioning to university, the very generous conversation of a University grade to a scaled score, and possibly the opportunity to get credit at that particular University it is something high achieving students should consider. For students aiming for an ATAR above 98 and who are very organised. It does require a very independent, self-motivated approach. Students can pick options where they attend the university in person or do subjects online. We have emailed all Year 11 students directly and students can collect a handout from the Display Wall in the LEC. Interested students need to submit the St Michael’s application by November 18th to Mr O’Reilly in Student Services. It is very important that the expression of interest is driven by the student as a measure of their personal interest and commitment. We do not approve students taking on Higher Education on top of a full load back at St Michael’s College. If students want more information they can book in to see Ms Coorey, Career Counsellor.

Some links to dive deeper:
The conversion from the University level of achievement to Scaled Score for ATAR is very generous
See: https://www.satac.edu.au/recognised-studies

More Information can be found at:
University of Adelaide HeadStart Program
Note: There is an upcoming information session, but this is held after Expression of Interest forms due here at the College: The annual Headstart Scholarship Program Information session has been scheduled the details are below:

Wednesday 23rd November
5:30 – 6:30pm
Braggs Lecture Theatre

Hear more about: Entry criteria and application, What to expect, Services available to support Headstart participants, SACE recognition and contribution towards the Selection Rank.
Registrations are mandatory and must be done so through this link:
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/headstart-scholarship-program-2023-information-night-tickets-431358794767

Flinders University Extension Studies Program
University of South Australia Accelerate Program

Note: The UniSA Accelerate applications close Wednesday 30 November 2022
UniSA Accelerate Webinar

Date: Tuesday 8 November
Time: 5.30pm – 6.30pm (ACST)
Registrations: Online

Australian Defence Force CYBERGAP Program

Applications close 31st October

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) Cyber Gap program is a 12-month online program designed to enhance your skills and employability in the cyber security field. You can be working towards any eligible qualification ranging from a Certificate III to a Master’s Degree, either full time or part time.
If you are already studying or looking to enrol in a cyber-related qualification, the ADF can offer you generous financial support. You’ll also gain exposure to cyber activities and experiences during the Defence Cyber Conference which will provide you with valuable insight into how you can help protect Australia’s online systems and information.

During this 12-month program you will receive:
• financial support
o course fee reimbursement up to $15,000
o academic allowance totalling $2,500
o textbooks and stationery costs of $600
• mentoring from ADF cyber specialists
• access to online cyber skills modules and cyber skills challenges
• exposure to cyber activities and experiences during the week-long Defence Cyber Conference held in September in Canberra
• professional membership to the Australian Computer Society
• information on careers within the ADF, Defence APS, Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) and other Government agencies.

The ADF Cyber Gap Program is for Australian citizens who are living in Australia. If you are currently studying or plan on studying one of the cyber-related qualification, and will be enrolled by 1 March 2023, you should consider applying.

We are looking for people who are passionate about cyber security and enthusiastic about turning their skills into a career supporting the ADF.
You can be studying either part or full-time towards any eligible qualification at the following levels:
• Certificate III
• Certificate IV
• Diploma
• Advanced Diploma
• Associate Degree
• Bachelor’s degree
• Graduate Certificate
• Graduate Diploma
• Master’s Degree.

The ADF Cyber Gap Program runs for 12 months. You need to be studying for the duration of the program.

Young Endeavor Sailing Opportunity

Join a crew of young Australians and embark on a life-changing journey – learning not only how to sail a square-rigged tall ship, but how to lead, support others and work together as a team. It’s a personal development opportunity unlike any other! If you’re aged 16-23 and ready to sail into the unknown, Young Endeavour is the adventure for you.

Be prepared to face your fears, push yourself out of your comfort zone and discover how you rise to the challenges you face. By the end of the voyage you and your fellow youth crew will take command of tall ship Young Endeavour and put your new skills to the test.

Please note this program has a significant cost and if a student decides to apply and participate it is at the cost to the Family.
There are some scholarships available – see website.

Ms Rose Coorey, Career Counsellor

Work Experience Term 4

Please note the final allocated Work Experience block this year is:
Mon 28th November – Fri 2nd December (Week 7, Term 4)
Mon 5th December – Fri 9th December (Week 8, Term 4).
Please Note: No placement can be take place after this date, as placements cannot be authorised during the Christmas Holidays.

Students must return the completed Workplace Learning Agreement Form and the Work, Health & Safety Checklist to Ms Tidd nikki.tidd@smc.sa.edu.au in the LEC by Week 4 (Friday 11th November). Students will then be booked in for a risk assessment with either Ms De Young (VET Placements) or Mr Viz (Careers Placements) once the forms have been returned. This must take place prior to the student undertaking the placement. A work experience placement cannot be authorised or covered by the College’s insurance unless all paperwork and preparation has been completed prior to the placement. Work Experience Students who do not meet the Week 4 deadline may have to rearrange their placement for next year.

Mr Anthony Vizaniaris – Student Counsellor