Again, welcome to the new school year. We have been busy preparing for the arrival of our students this week, and are ready to begin a new year of learning, praying, and working together. We look forward to welcoming all students back, especially those who are new to our community.

During the last week staff have been engaging in a wide array of compliance, professional learning activity, and preparation in readiness for the students’ arrival this week. Last Friday we all participated in a system-wide day on high impact teaching practices, with an address also provided by the Archbishop.

This year the Church celebrates a jubilee year, which the Pope has entitled “Pilgrims of Hope” for a world suffering the impacts of war, the ongoing effects of pandemic and the climate crisis. As Catholics, we are eternal people of hope. We choose to see the positive, the possible and the goodness in others, and we work actively for peace, solidarity, and justice in our world. A pilgrim is a journeyman/journeywoman who travels to sacred places. May this year of jubilee provide all of us with a sense of optimism, renewal, and ultimately fill us with hope. I think that we can all perhaps make a conscious effort to be hope-filled, and choose to see the glass half full, not empty, and remember and express gratitude for the good things and gifts we have been freely given by God, and our fellow humans.

I pray for all our students and their families as we commence this new year at St John Paul II College, safe in the knowledge that God will watch over you all, protect, guide, and nourish, and most of all fill you with hope!

During the first few weeks there is much happening at the college. Please check your calendars for invitations and coming events. In particular, on Tuesday 11 February we will have our Academic Awards assembly, a welcome BBQ for parents and families, and a senior studies BSSS information evening. My grand hope is that parents will avail themselves of the increased opportunities we will provide this year to engage with our school, and our community, with the intent of promoting a strong partnership and sense of belonging for all.

I am excited about the coming year, especially the advent of our new library. More information and opportunity to see the library will be coming soon!

Dr Craig Wattam

Welcome to the 2025 academic year! The start of the school year brings a mix of emotions—excitement, anxiety, worry, angst, and sometimes relief. These feelings are completely normal and are often experienced by adults returning to work after the summer break. At JPC, we aim to ease students back into their school routines. I have included a reading from last year’s parent summit presenter, Dr Justin Coulson, on returning to school.

Families are encouraged to reach out to their child’s PC teacher or House Coordinator if they have any concerns.

This year, we are introducing Pastoral Care Teacher interviews in Week 3 of Term 1. These interviews are designed to help families connect with their child’s PC teacher, who will be a key contact throughout their JPC journey.

One of the best things schools and families can offer their young people is a routine.

Here are some key benefits of having a routine:

1. Improved Time Management: A routine helps students allocate specific times for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation, ensuring they make the most of their day.
2. Reduced Stress: Knowing what to expect each day can reduce anxiety and stress, as students feel more in control of their time and responsibilities.
3. Better Academic Performance: Consistent study habits and regular review sessions can lead to better understanding and retention of material, ultimately improving grades.
4. Healthy Habits: Routines often include time for exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep, all of which are crucial for maintaining physical and mental health.
5. Increased Productivity: With a set schedule, students can focus better on tasks, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.
6. Development of Self-Discipline: Following a routine requires self-discipline, which is a valuable skill that will benefit students throughout their lives.

To support students in developing routines, we have invested in a new school diary. We are excited to announce our collaboration with the renowned Resilience Project. Students in Years 7–10 are encouraged to use their diaries daily. Teachers will incorporate diary use into their exit routines, noting any homework and important student information related to goal setting and assessment planning. The diary also includes information on how students can seek help at school, key contacts, safety procedures for evacuation, and ICT and uniform agreements. Parents and students are asked to sign off on this agreement on page 20 of the diary by the end of Week 2.

Uniform

The College is aware of current supply issues with Lowes. Regarding the JPC school bag, Lowes has a navy school bag with the JPC crest available for purchase. Once the JPC-specific school bag is back in stock, families can exchange it at Lowes at no additional cost.

If your child is unable to wear the correct uniform, a note must be provided to the House Coordinator. The College is committed to working with families to resolve uniform supply issues, and some uniform items are available through the second-hand shop (accessible via the front office).

Please note that repeated uniform infringements may result in consequences in line with the College's uniform policy.

Tom van de Waterbeemd
Assistant Principal – Wellbeing & Community
Maathai and Van Thuan Houses