CCW Newsletter Issue #15 (October 13, 2021)

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CATHEDRAL COLLEGE WANGARATTA

Fortnightly Newsletter

In this edition.....

From the Principal Join the CCW P&F in 2022 BYOD Program 2022 National Water Week Community Connect Term Dates 2022 Dates, Events and Reminders

Join the CCW P&F in 2022

Positions vacant

President Secretary Treasurer 4 x Committee Members

CCW P&F AGM

TUESDAY 6.30PM October 26, 2021 Venue to be confirmed.

What is the P&F? Since the school's inception, the CCW Parents and Friends Association (P&F) has been instrumental in coordinating inclusive school community activities to help raise funds to contribute towards the school. The CCW P&F functions as an important body in establishing a collegial school community where our families have a sense of belonging. The P&F supports this occurring via: the encouragement of an active parent and friend involvement in CCW via the organisation of activities that bring the school community together and create a sense of belonging for school families (e.g.

Mother's and Father's Day stalls, large school community events, parent morning teas, parent social evenings off-campus etc. coordinating social and other activities that celebrate the achievements of our students and our school; supporting CCW by using funds that are a by-product of community/social activities to enhance the learning/school experience of our students and families e.g. funding SchoolTV; supporting CCW by providing funding for students facing hardship.

Why join?

Join an exciting and positive group of likeminded people all dedicated to The College and bettering the education and experiences of all students at The College.

How do I join the P&F in 2022?

Email an expression of interest to Jaquie Jose at jaquieh21@hotmail.com by October 19, 2021and indicate the position you would like to self nominate or nominate someone else for.

Attend the AGM on Tuesday, October 26. RSVP to: kcairncross@cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au by October 19, 2021. If you can't attend, still put in a nomination!

Other questions...

I don't know anyone on the P&F, should I still join?

Absolutely! The current committee is a warm, friendly and inclusive group of people who welcome new members with open arms. Meetings are fun, productive and friendly.

What if I am new to the school and haven't met many people?

The past couple of years have not only meant that new parents and friends of The College haven't been on campus much but also parents whose students have attended The College for some time. This is a great way to meet new people and make new connections.

When are the meetings?

During term time, the meetings are the first Tuesday of the month from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm in the staff room at school.

What if I don't have any experience on a committee?

That is not a problem. There is a P&F Handbook that outlines the roles of the committee members, and there will be a brief induction for new committee members. The College appreciates that the committee and helpers are volunteers who give up their time to support, represent and enhance the school community.

What if I don't want to be on the committee, but I would like to help at events and/or attend meetings?

All members of The College community are welcome to attend meetings. If you would like to register to volunteer at events in 2022, please register your name with the President.

#VOLUNTEERING #GIVINGBACK #CCWCOMMUNITY #CCWP&F2022

From the Principal MR NICK JONES It has been really heartening to see the smiles on our student's faces and to hear their laughter and joy as they have reunited with each other at school during the past week. Despite faces being covered with a mask, this week has been another reminder of how much we have missed during all these periods of Remote Learning. Returning to onsite teaching and learning in a safe manner is extremely important for the emotional, academic and spiritual wellbeing of all our students. We are looking forward to the full-time return of all students over the coming weeks.

We understand that as students begin to return to the classroom, they will be experiencing a range of different emotions. While some are very excited and enthusiastic, others may be a little anxious or nervous about reconnecting with peers and their teachers. Our staff are focused on supporting all students as they return to the classroom, and I encourage you to contact homeroom teachers directly if you are concerned about your child as they return to school.

Our Year Twelve students will conclude their formal classes next week and while we are unable to run our normal graduation events and assemblies, we will be doing all we can to recognise and celebrate this significant achievement for our students. Our Year Twelve cohort have experienced a significantly disrupted final two years of schooling and I would like to congratulate you all on the resilience and commitment you have shown, we are very proud of you all. We wish you the very best for your final examinations and the years ahead of you. While you formally graduate from The College this week, you will always be a member of the Cathedral College family and I encourage you to keep in touch with us and let us know about all your achievements in the years ahead.

In the coming weeks, The College's Parents and Friends Association will hold its AGM. 2022 will hopefully bring renewed opportunities for our parents and friends to enjoy coming together on campus. Although we are blessed with wonderful buildings and resources, it is the collection of students, staff and families that is the school and underpins our culture of inclusiveness and working together. I encourage you to consider joining the association and know that you will be richer for the experience.

Finally, a big thank you to parents and carers for your important support during these difficult times. I appreciate that you continue to receive a large amount of correspondence from The College and that the staggered and part-time return of students may cause some inconvenience for you. Thank you also for ensuring that our students comply with the health and safety requirements including wearing a facemask and staying home if they are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.

All the best.

From the Head of Junior School MR GREG NEWBOLD What a joy it was to welcome our Junior School back to onsite learning throughout the week. The Prep to Year Two classes have led the way, settling quickly into school late last term, and continuing in that fashion during the first week.

The balance of the Junior School returned throughout the week and quickly understood and followed routines and expectations. Concentration levels were an area of note, being quite varied, with students having had various experiences during the home learning phase. Even simple things such as packing up your belongings before moving to the next task, avoiding simple distractions, and persisting with challenging tasks are demonstrated areas of focus for our students. These are natural occurrences and were evident each time we have returned from long phases of home learning. If experience is anything to go by, then we expect these important self-management skills will be polished in a very short time frame.

As we move into the term, some events are still planned, as indicated below, but the details of them are still subject to change: Performing Arts ‘Annie’ - Years Three to Five - Tuesday, November 23 at WPAC (filmed on stage) ‘Space Odyssey’ - Years Prep to Two - Thursday, December 2 (details TBC) End of Year Celebrations Year Five Graduation - Wednesday, December 1 District Transition Day - Tuesday, December 7 Carols Service - Thursday, December 9 Junior School Presentation Ceremony - Friday, December 10, 9.30 am Camps – Excursions Year Two Harrietville & Year Four Melbourne camps are rescheduled to a date to be determined, which may include local day visits or an overnight experience.

We look forward to providing our community with an authentic and fulfilling range of experiences to celebrate the end of the school year, and where possible and practical, enable families to attend.

This week The College will be saying farewell to Miss Suzie Quartermain. Suzie has been a wonderful part of the faculty for 10 years. In this time she has taught many different subjects and even stepping into the role of Librarian. There have been many wonderful dress-up's showing off her creativity and sewing skills. She has participated eagerly in House activities as a valued Buffalo member. During Remote Learning a highlight for many students were the stories read by Miss Q, and the artistic challenges set. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours and thank you for all you have done for The College these past years.

From the Head of Middle School MRS BRIGID PERKINS

Welcome Back to Onsite Learning It has been lovely to welcome our Middle School students back onto campus this week. Our Year Seven students returned to a full-time onsite timetable across Monday through to Friday. Our Year Eight students are attending onsite lessons on Tuesday and Wednesday. And our Year Six students are attending onsite lessons on Thursday and Friday. Throughout this week it has been obvious that students have enjoyed catching up with friends, organising their downball games and cricket matches during recess and lunch, but also appreciating the ease of seeking out a teacher to ask for assistance or clarify a question. All academic classes have used their time this week to go through what has been covered in Term Three, but also explicitly teaching skills and knowledge that will be focused on throughout Term Four.

Masks Middle School students have been reminded that the wearing of masks remains compulsory inside and outside the classroom, while they are on campus. Students have returned to school well and the majority of our community are following these guidelines and wearing their masks correctly. It is important that students continue to arrive at school wearing their own re-usable or disposable masks, this includes when they are travelling to school by bus.

Uniform This week is the final week of transition from Winter uniform to Summer uniform. From next week (Week Three, Term Four) all students are expected to be in full Summer uniform for the remainder of Term Four.

Hats As we move into the warmer months of the year and we start wearing Summer uniform full-time, all students are also expected to be wearing their school hats during recess and lunch. Students have been reminded that the wearing of hats is compulsory for the remainder of Term Four and during their Physical Education lessons.

Year Seven Wellbeing Program – Breath Circle The College has had the opportunity to be involved in a pilot wellbeing program, involving a small group of Year Seven students that aim to upskill them in the area of managing their emotions and being present in the moment. Breath Circle is an Australian health and wellbeing organisation teaching evidence-based mindful breathing programs in schools across Victoria. Breath Circle programs teach tools for students, teachers and parents to calm the nervous system and regulate emotions. The organisation plans to take the work to places where there is a greater need, to support students to build resilience in the face of challenges and improve mental health. Our students will be involved in sessions that will run over six weeks and it is hoped that they can transfer what they have learnt to their own lives and experiences.

Camps and Excursions Due to the current restrictions that remain in place, our extra-curricular camps and excursion program has had to be revised and revisited. Our Year Six Camp to Canberra that would normally take place in Term Four has been cancelled and our Year Eight Camp to Torquay has been postponed at this stage. Our Middle School team is currently making plans for alternative programs that can hopefully be facilitated throughout our end of year program.

From the Head of Senior School MS ANNE HARRIS

Welcome Back and Farewell As we welcome back all our year groups, either on a part-time or full-time basis over the next few weeks, we also farewell our Year Twelves, the Class of 2021. When I spoke to these students this morning, it was to remind them that of the more than 2,500 days in their school life, they only had five days left.

For our Year Twelves, it is a time of ticking through their ‘lasts’. Their last SAC, visit to Sharon, lunch from the canteen, practical in Chemistry, extended Homeroom, (virtual) Chapel Service, recitation of The College Prayer, to name a few. In many ways, COVID-19 has taken away a lot of ‘lasts’; including House Assembly, House Music, ski trips, camps and other leadership opportunities.

I am incredibly proud of our Year Twelves for the resilience, perseverance, and sense of humour I have encountered during what is already a traditionally tough and stressful year.

Next Wednesday is the last school day for the Class of 2021 before they commence their final study period before exams, moving into employment, further training, or enjoying a break over the summer. For those students (and their families) who are about to undertake the VCE exams, we wish you all the very best.

To all our Valedictorians, we wish you a safe and relaxing summer and look forward to hearing what you do in 2022. Each Year Twelve has a place in Cathedral College history and will remain a part of our community.

It has been wonderful to welcome back our Year Nine, Ten and Eleven students this term. I think this is probably the longest break from school any student has had since commencing in Prep.

Students have grown taller, hair has grown a lot longer and there is an energy back that has been missing during Remote Learning.

It is important to recognise that it will take time for all of us, students, teachers and families, to get used to full-time school again. It will be normal for there to be some anxiety around returning to school and an increased level of tiredness as we get back to old routines. The key to succeeding is to keep going and be confident that you can rise to the challenge; ask for help along the way and be kind to yourself and others.

Warm Regards

From the Director of Studies MRS JULIE FINDLAY

Returning To School There are many articles in the media about students returning to school. There is no doubt that we are glad students are returning to the classroom. However, as much we try to prepare similar experiences in a digital form, we cannot replace the teachers' ability to consistently touch base with students to check that they understand, are on track, or pacing themselves. There is also the personal interactions between peers and students and teachers which make life more fun and positive which is hard to emulate in a digital form.

As we return to the classroom, some students are very excited, some are nervous, and some have mixed feelings. Many young people have thrived working independently, many have managed to keep up and many have really struggled to maintain focus and understand.

So how, as a teaching and learning group, are we approaching the return to the classroom: Activities involve discussion, one to one questioning and small group sharing to recap key content covered.

Where appropriate, hands-on or practical activities will take place.

Staff will collect work to gauge where students are at and may set a few review tasks to help students. This will be more individualised for each student.

Assessments and school tasks will be modified so as to not overburden students as they return to school.

Several activities will involve students working together to help students re-establish social connections in the classroom.

Key skills and understanding will be the focus of learning to help students prepare for next year.

Teachers understand the need for students to redevelop routines in order to successfully focus in the classroom.

Navigating the next few weeks will be difficult for all but patience, understanding and working together will help us all to re-establish ourselves.

Chaplains' Chat MRS CATHY CARDEN October 10, 2021 was Mental Health Awareness Day. We have all heard and seen in the media concerns for people’s mental health – both adults and young people. When the school Wellbeing team met last week, we decided to have a focus of encouraging staff and students across the school to spend some time in meditation or mindfulness each day; as we learn to gather again, and endeavour to maintain routine and a sense of normality and hopefulness throughout the remainder of the year. Prayer is also important in this regard.

St Paul’s Cathedral in Melbourne shared these two prayers that we can pray for ourselves and for each other.

A personal prayer for World Mental Health Day Loving God, you are the light in our darkest night, the courage to face our fears, and the hope to replace our sadness.

You love us when we believe we are not good enough.

You call us your children and say we are precious.

When we feel anxious or alone, you comfort us.

Walk with us in our pain as Jesus knew suffering too.

Surround us with your peace and understanding.

Amen

A prayer for World Mental Health Day Loving God, we pray today for those who are confronted by the sadness. ambiguity and confusion of mental illness, and for those upon whom they depend for attention and compassionate care.

Look with mercy on all whose afflictions bring them weakness, distress, confusion or isolation.

Provide for them homes of dignity and peace; give to them understanding helpers and the willingness to accept help.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen

And there are a wealth and range of resources online that provide opportunities for mindfulness and meditation. Below are two short approaches that you may find helpful in calming and resetting our mind.

Wellbeing with the School Counsellor MS JUNE STAMP

Transitioning Back As lockdown restrictions are slowly being lifted to varying degrees, we are entering a time of transition and adjustment. The circumstances of this situation have significantly impacted us all. For some, it has been an opportunity to reflect on what is important, whilst others have embraced the opportunity to learn new things.

Many young people may be excited at the prospect of restrictions being lifted, whilst others may be feeling mixed emotions. Reactions will differ depending on how well they cope with stress and change. Keeping a check on your child’s mental health and wellbeing as they adjust to new routines, will be vitally important.

There is still a lot of uncertainty ahead of us, so focusing on the things you can control or enjoy doing, can help establish predictability and familiarity for the whole family. Adult carers need to provide young people with reassurance by acknowledging any concerns and fears they may have at this time. Consider this to be a normal reaction, however, it may be best to focus more on their feelings and emotions, rather than the practicalities at this stage.

In this Special Report, we share a few ideas about how to help ease this time of transition. We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to your special report https://cathedralcollege.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-coronavirus-transitionback

Bring Your Own Device Program - 2022

2 202 D BYO W CC

As we have been unable to have a face-to-face presentation outlining specific details of the program, the link below will take you to The College website where you will find all the information you need to make an informed choice regarding purchasing your child’s device and other important details.

This includes: A pre-recorded video that outlines important information about the CCW BYOD Program. It is recommended that you watch the video as this gives an overview of the program and other important details.

A CCW BYOD handbook that also explains the program in detail, including minimum device specifications and a FAQ section.

A link to the CompNow portal, which is an option for parents to peruse and purchase a device through our selected technology partner CompNow. https://link.cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au/byod IMPORTANT CHANGES TO APPLE INSURANCE Due to the Australian Governments legislation in regards to the deferred sales model for add on insurance, CompNow can no longer offer the AppleCare + insurance product as part of the notebook purchase. If you plan on purchasing an Apple Laptop, Cathedral College Wangaratta highly recommends that upon receipt of your notebook you immediately purchase AppleCare + via the Apple website (Buy an AppleCare plan – Apple Support (AU)) and have it applied to your device.

The BYOD Portal has been closed over the past few days but will reopen shortly for purchasing to continue if you wish to use CompNow.As previously advised, this is one option for purchasing a BYOD device and parents are able to independently purchase a device of their choice that meets the minimum specifications, from any retailer.

Please note that due to the temporary closure of the portal over the past few days, the Christmas delivery cut-off date has been extended to Monday, October 11, 2021.

Any further questions or queries can be sent via email to: byod.question@cathedralcollege.vic.edu.au

From the Library MRS BERNADETTE QUINN, MS SUZIE QUARTERMAIN & MRS DIANNE HIGGINSON

New Reads It’s been a while since we featured our new Library books in the newsletter. Here is a small sample of the books we have added to the Library collection lately.

The fiction books shown above are available now in the Senior Library

The books shown below are available to borrow from the Junior Library

Careers MR ROD DUNBAR

VTAC Applications Students in Year Twelve have completed their initial VTAC applications. (Any student who has missed the “timely” application deadline may still make an application but will incur a late fee.

Late applications close on November 5.) Students may continue to adjust their preferences at any time (with a few restrictions) until all offers are posted.

Students will receive their VCE results/ATAR on Monday, December 13. The first round of offers will occur on Monday, December 20. For more details regarding this timeline, go to VTAC dates.

Armed Forces Careers Information sessions Armed Forces Recruiting is running a couple of online events for interested parents, teachers and students.

There will be a Parent and Teachers information session to gain valuable insight into how you can help your students achieve their goals. Please find the link to register here.

There will also be a Women in Defence Information Session. This is a great opportunity for girls to be able to ask any questions they may be reluctant to ask around males or in a large group environment. The link to register for this event can be found here.

Work Experiences Some students may be considering organising some work experience some time this term, as they consider their future pathways. They might be getting a taster for a school-based apprenticeship, for example. Whilst The College supports these endeavours, we must remind students that these placements come with some obligations. Every work experience requires the completion of a work experience arrangement form (WEAF). This is a legal document that includes insurance cover. You can find a copy of the form here. Students will also need to inform the school of their intentions, too, for a range of reasons.

From the Uniform Shop STEPHANIE GOODGER, HEATHER POTTER & SIGRID COLLINS

Summer Uniform Transition into Summer uniform begins from the first day back of Term Four. Students are able to wear either the correct Summer uniform or the correct Winter uniform (without a blazer) depending on the weather. Full Summer uniform must be worn from Week Three, Term Four (October 18, 2021).

Term Four Opening Hours Monday: 8:30 am - 1:45 pm Wednesday: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm Thursday: 8:30 am - 4:00 pm Friday: 8:30 am - 1:45 pm Details can be found on the Noone Imagewear website.

Please do not leave it until the last minute to try on the uniforms. Due to COVID regulations, students MUST have an appointment if they are trying on ANY part of the uniform. Also, consider going through your outgrown items, they can be sold through the shop, please ensure that they are clean, have at least 50% wear remaining and have no holes or repairs. Please do not dry clean your blazers. Sales of your secondhand items can be deducted from your school fees or paid directly into your chosen bank account.

VCE German MRS SONJA SEEGER After many years of studying German, fourteen Year Twelve students completed their external end-of-year oral examinations at The Centre in Wangaratta. Oral examinations are conducted by two assessors and take 15 minutes. Students prepared to speak about their personal world as well as a chosen subtopic they had studied in VCE German. All students agreed that it was a good experience and they felt comfortable speaking to the assessors. We wish them good luck with their written German examination in November.

Year Four Science MRS ANDREA THWAITES For Science this week the Year Four students conducted an experiment to test what happens to sugar when it is placed in warm water. The students learnt the sugar dissolves and as the colours meet they mix and over time become a colour blend.

National Water Week - 'Caring for Water and Country' OLIVIA JOYCE Each year, National Water Week (October 18-24, 2021) makes a splash across Australia inspiring individuals, communities and organisations to work together to build community awareness and understanding of water-related issues.

This year North East Water celebrates and encourages us to learn more about the vital and cultural role that water plays in our lives. The theme "Caring for Water and Country" recognises the importance water plays in our lives by deepening our understanding of Australian First Nations people's knowledge of protecting and sustaining our water and lands for over 65,000 years since the Dreamtime.

Congratulations to Year Two student, Olivia Joyce on her amazing Water Wise poster that she submitted to the competition. We are delighted to say that she came first place in the Years One and Two age group.

Photo Gallery YEAR TWELVE CHEMISTRY

Photo Gallery VCE GAT & BACK TO SCHOOL FUN

Photo Gallery YEAR SEVEN COHORT BACK ON CAMPUS & RAISING THE FLAGS

Community Connect Congratulations to Year Twelve student Josh Paul who recently launched his business venture, HAND HALO. Congratulations Josh, we wish you every success.

HAND HALO was born from humble beginnings, an idea in the back of the mind that eventually would become a reality to the HAND HALO brand we see today.

The struggle for many is at what price do you have to pay to get good quality and stunning jewellery? At HAND HALO, we boast affordable fashion with high-quality timeless pieces.

HAND HALO is a modern take on the conventional ring. All rings are handcrafted and made in Australia from silver (SIL), stainless steel (SS) and silver-plated stainless (EPNS) vintage flatware - Every ring is individually designed and crafted - All rings are polished and presented in our purpose-built display cases. https://handhalo.com.au Instagram: handhalo Facebook: handhalo2021

Seeking Youth Partners We are looking for two young people (age 12-24) to join the Grit and Resilience Consortium to help strengthen connection and inclusion and to promote positive mental health and wellbeing across the Rural City of Wangaratta. If you or someone you know might be interested, take a look at the Applicant Information Pack on our website. The Expression of Interest process closes at 5 pm on October 15. https://www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au/Residen ts/Grit-Resilience/How-to-get-involved

UNDER 12 PLAYERS We Want You! WMCC are pressing for 3 teams and we need another handful of players.

We welcome players from Years Four – Six to training - Wednesday nights @ 4.30 pm at the Norm Minns Oval cricket nets.

(Showgrounds) Contact Luke Sims 0448 875 195

Woolworths Cricket Blast!

City Colts Cricket Club will be running a 'Woolworths Blaster Cricket' program for season 2021/22.

Junior Blasters is for those junior cricketers who are either just starting out or have done only a season or two.

As a guide, Junior Blasters is suited to Preps – Grade 2. It is a fun session where everyone learns the skills of cricket and plays plenty of games.

Master Blasters is more game-based and is for children who have played cricket for a couple of seasons but are not quite ready for underage junior competition.

Both sessions are run on a Friday night from 5.30 pm at the Bill O’Callaghan Oval (Barr Reserve) under the direction of a Level 1 accredited coach. The first session will be on Friday 22nd October.

Register via Playcricket.com.au, enter Wangaratta as location and select City Colts as the centre, or for more information please contact: Ross Moore 0409 186 640 or rmmoore@esc.net.au

Term Dates 2022

TERM ONE Staff Development Day Student Free Day

Thursday, January 27

Students Commence

Monday, January 31

Labour Day Public Holiday

Monday, March 14

Last Day of Term One

Friday, April 8

TERM TWO ANZAC Day Public Holiday

Monday, April 25

Staff Development Day

Tuesday, April 26

Students Commence

Wednesday, April 27

ASC Christian Purposes Day Student Free Day

Friday, May 27

Queen's Birthday Public Holiday

Monday, June 13

Last Day of Term Two

Friday, June 24

Student Free Day

Note - Three-week Holiday

TERM THREE Staff Development Day Student Free Day

Monday, July 18

Students Commence

Tuesday, July 19

Last Day of Term Three

Friday, September 16

TERM FOUR Staff Development Day

Monday, October 3

Students Commence Melbourne Cup Weekend

Tuesday, October 4

Student Free Days

Monday, October 31 and Tuesday November 1

Last Day of Term Four

Tuesday, December 13

Student Free Day

Dates, Events, and Reminders Term Four 2021 Junior School

Senior School

Week Three (Week B)

Week Three (Week B)

Monday, October 18 Full Summer uniform required Prep, Years One & Two students onsite full-time Prep Swimming Program commences, finishes on Friday

Monday, October 18 Full Summer uniform required Years Eleven & Twelve students onsite full-time

Tuesday, October 19 Years Three & Four students onsite Wednesday, October 20 Years Three & Four students onsite Thursday, October 21 Year Five students onsite Friday, October 22 Year Five students onsite Week Four (Week A) Tuesday, October 26 All students commence onsite full-time Years Three & Four Swimming Program commences, finishes on Friday

Middle School Week Three (Week B)

Monday, October 18 Full Summer uniform required Year Seven students onsite full-time Tuesday, October 19 Year Eight students onsite Wednesday, October 20 Year Eight students onsite Thursday, October 21 Year Six students onsite Friday, October 22 Year Six students onsite Week Four (Week A) Tuesday, October 26 All students commence onsite full-time

Tuesday, October 19 Year Nine students onsite Wednesday, October 20 Year Nine students onsite Thursday, October 21 Year Ten students onsite Friday, October 22 Year Ten students onsite Week Four (Week A) Monday, October 25 All students commence onsite full-time Wednesday, October 27 VCE Exams begin - English