From the Principal

Dear Families of SJC

Within the Catholic faith from the time of its establishment following the death of Christ, one of the main cornerstones of our faith has been the importance of community. The source and summit of our belief the being 'in communion' with our God and our fellow believers when we attend Sunday Mass and engage with the Blessed Eucharist. As such, we believe in the presence of Christ in all humanity and that 'we are all made in the image and likeness of God' (Solomon 2:23). 

It was, therefore, such an important moment last Friday when our College community came together to celebrate being as one with our annual Athletics Carnival. Given the times we have and continue to face, I was so pleased to see so many of our students and staff enjoying part of what it is to be a member of the Joey's community. I thank the students who attended (72%) and offer congratulations to Hanley House on their stunning victory over Reynolds. Thanks to Ms Madeline Ilic and her team for all of their hard work to organise and run the event. 

Improvement Surveys

I would like to thank the families who have recently completed our school improvement survey and the very quick survey relating to the Student/Parent/Teacher Interviews. As an organisation, we are always striving to improve and ensure our students are provided with the best opportunity to reach their potential. Results and findings will be shared with families when they are presented back to the College.

You would also know that my fourth-year appraisal is currently being conducted and August 20 will see panel members in the College to interview staff and myself. Members of the SJC community will be invited to attend an interview if they wish. All families were emailed a link to my appraisal survey and I thank those who have taken the time to complete it. I look forward to engaging in the feedback provided so I can improve in my role as the principal of this great College. It has been an honour and privilege to serve during this time. 

We are also currently in the middle of completing mid-contract appraisals for all our staff members in leadership positions. Staff have been providing feedback for our leaders so they can be affirmed in their practice and provided considerations in seeking personal improvement.  

Professional Learning Days 2020

As a result of all recent disruptions, our planned professional learning days were postponed or cancelled. It is a requirement that staff receive a certain number of development opportunities across a year and to this end, SJC has two days remaining to complete. It has been decided that these will run on September 25 (final day of Term 3) and October 12 (first day of Term 4). These days are on the College Calendar. Please ensure you have made appropriate care arrangements for these days.

Community Expectations

Later this week, a document will be shared with all members of our community outlining a number of areas staff will focus on across the remainder of the year. The goal is to ensure learning time in classes are maximised and disruptions are kept to a minimum. Whilst the overwhelming majority of our students ensure they are engaged and respectful in all learning situations, some students make choices that are not in line with College expectations. There will be repercussions for the students who make such choices and I want parents to understand what will occur if these expectations are not met. Please follow the app to access the information.

Graduation and Leadership Assembly

I am currently awaiting direction from the CSO regarding how these important upcoming events may look. Given the current restrictions, they will be very different in appearance. Year 12 parents received a letter a number of weeks ago and can expect a further update this week. My underlying message has been that we will ensure the best experience for our students under the restrictions imposed upon us at the time of each event.

I hope you are keeping well and safe during these times and please be sure to keep the people of Victoria in your prayers.

Kind regards

Mr Scott Thomson
Principal