Welcome Year 7 2023
With Him is the fullness of life Jn 10:10
MISSION STATEMENT Our motto is our vision—the commitment to ensure every member of our community is empowered to achieve success, act with integrity and contribute to the common good—Christian discipleship for a just world.
Inspired by the Gospels’ values, John Paul College provides an exemplary and holistic education within the Catholic tradition. Our community welcomes students and their families from the parishes and communities of the greater Frankston region. We believe every student’s success is grounded in quality learning and teaching, and a school culture that fosters wellbeing, promotes resilience and inspires faith in action.
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Contents 4
Principal's message
15
Laptop Responsibility
5
Key Dates
16
PAM and SIMON
6
Key Contacts
18
Learning and Teaching Vision
7
Parent Information
19
Year 7 Subjects
8
College Map
9
Bell Times
20 Student Learning and Academic After School Study program
10
Timetable
11
Lockers
12
Attendance and sign in
13
Uniform
22
Faith
24
House Spirit and Our Shield
25
Wellbeing
26
Wellbeing services
14 Mobile device and headphones
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Principal’s Message Our aim at John Paul College is to make this time of transition as smooth as possible and to support students and their families to feel welcome and at home. The sense of belonging is important for students in this transition time, and we are committed to ensuring that each and every student is known and feels a part of this community. Each of you become part the John Paul College community and we look forward to sharing the journey from Year 7 through to Year 12 with you as partners in your child’s education.
Welcome to Year 7 at John Paul College. We thank parents for choosing our College for their child’s secondary education. The time of transition from primary into secondary education is an exciting time for students and their parents/guardians. It is an opportunity to explore new horizons and undertake new learning experiences. It can also be a time of challenge for some students and parents. Leaving behind the certainty and security of a primary school setting where the student and their family are known and where everything is familiar is not always easy.
This partnership supports students to grow and thrive in all aspects of their schooling experience. We commit ourselves to be a school where each student’s success is grounded in quality learning and teaching and create a school culture that fosters wellbeing, promotes resilience and inspires faith in action. My best wishes for the journey ahead.
John Visentin COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
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Key Dates TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER
WEDNESDAY 1 FEBRUARY
Orientation Day Start: 8:30am for an 8:45am start
First day for Year 7s Start: 8:30am
Finish: 12:30pm
Finish: 12:30pm
• Casual Clothes and hat
• John Paul College Summer Uniform with Blazer
• Pen and/or pencil
• Bring your laptop and pencil case
• Bring a drink bottle
• Bring your drink bottle
• Morning Tea will be provided
• Bring half your text and exercise books (bring remainder the next day)
• For specific dietary requirements please contact Lisa Meddings, meddingl@jpc.vic.edu.au
• Morning Tea will be provided
• Kealy Centre drop off and collection
• For specific dietary requirements please contact Lisa Meddings, meddingl@jpc.vic.edu.au • School photo day for Year 7 & 12 students only •
Kealy Centre drop off and collection
THURSDAY 2 FEBRUARY First full day for all students Start: 8.30am Finish: 3.00pm •
Bring remainder of your books for first full day of classes
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Connecting through Staff
John Visentin
Craig Judkins
KJ Maan
COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL WELLBEING
DIRECTOR OF ICT
Christine Ward
Lauren Moore
Trish Fiore
HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL -
HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL LEARNING
COLLEGE NURSE
WELLBEING
HOUSE COORDINATORS
Dennis Mitsianis
Heidi Colombani
Yvonne Middlebrook
Scott McCleary
CHAMINADE MIDDLE COORDINATOR
D’HOUET MIDDLE COORDINATOR
OLSEN MIDDLE COORDINATOR
TURNER MIDDLE COORDINATOR
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Parent Contact Information IMPORTANT COLLEGE CONTACT INFORMATION College Website
jpc.vic.edu.au
Main Reception
9784 0200
Student Services
9784 0207
Student Attendance
9784 0237
SMS: 0499 377 423
Information about notifying student attendance can be read on page 12.
COMMUNICATION There are many members of the College staff that will assist in the education of your child / children. The diagram below showcases the best staff member to contact depending on the question or need of the child.
PASTORAL CARE / WELLBEING
ACADEMIC / LEARNING & TEACHING
1
Pastoral Care Teacher
1
Subject Teacher
2
House Coordinator
2
Learning Area Leader
3
Head of Middle School - Wellbeing
3
Head of Middle School - Learning
4
Deputy Principal Wellbeing
4
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching
Your child’s subject teachers and pastoral care teacher can be easily contacted via PAM by clicking on their student profile then select email staff. A list of all of their teachers will be available to choose from. Please refer to page 16 for further information on PAM.
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tre
Gate 7
es & Health & Wellbeing Centre
- Main Office
se Rooms
hnology Rooms
ul College
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SM12
SM11
SM10
FITNESS CENTRE
UNIFORM SHOP
SM8
SM7
SM6
Gate 6
T
GY2
GY1
Gate 7
DOR
SM2
Gate 5
T
SM1
THE KEALY CENTRE
SM3
T
T
T
SM13
SM12
SM11
STELLA MARIS CENTRE
SM10
FITNESS CENTRE
UNIFORM SHOP
SM8
SM7
SM6
DOR
T
T
THE KEALY CENTRE
EVACUATION AREA 1 STAFF
T
T
A1
A2
A3
T
T T
A13
A14
A8
CAREERS
A9
RESOURCE CENTRE
T T
T
MM
A10
C
ICT
Student Services
M c M Gate A H6 O N S RGate O 5A D
T
GY2
GY1OFFICE MAIN
T
WO
B1
B3
A12
T
T
T
DIS T
N1
T
T
HEALTH WELLBEING CENTRE
N2
N3
D7
T
T
T
T
T
STUDENT SERVICES STAFF MAIN OFFICE
T
Gate 4 Gate 3
T
T
T
T
D6
D5
N7
ASSEMBLY ROOM
N6
N5
N4
E1
E2
E3
T
T
A1
A2
A3
T
T
E5
E4
T
A13
G6
G5
Gate 2
G2
G3
G4
F1
F2
F5
F4
A14
A8
G7
G8
CAREERS
P15
A9 P14
T T
T
MM
P10
P2
P1
P13 A10
C
ICT
P6
D1
P7
P12
A11
B1
WO
T
T
T
DIS
P8
T
T
D2
D3
B3
NGARGEE CENTRE
THEATRE
A12 P11
Gate 4 Gate 3
T
B5
STEWART CENTRE B4
B2
P9
P5 P4 P3
G11
G10
G9 CENTRE RESOURCE
F3
C14
C9
T
T
N1
T
DIS
MA INT EN AN CE
N2
N3
D7
HEALTH WELLBEING CENTRE
CL
D6
D5
10m SCALE BAR
0m
STUDENT SERVICES
DIS
T T
Gate 1
T
T
D4
N7
20m
ASSEMBLY ROOM
N6
N5
N4
E1
E2
E3
E5
E4
College Nurse & Wellbeing Team
McMAHONS ROAD
T
B5
STEWART CENTRE B4
B2
BUS BAYS
A11
D1
D2
D4
C13
C12
30m
E NC NA TE AIN
Gate 8
SM13
T
STELLA MARIS CENTRE
T
T
T
D3
AUD
C10
C11
M
T
SM3
BUS BAYS
T
T
Canteen
ICT Support
Middle School House Coordinators
50m
G6
G5
Gate 2
40m
G2
G3
G4
F1
F2
G7
G8
F3
G9
F5
F4
P15
P14
G10
P10
P2
P1
P13
P6
P12
P9
P7
DIS
P8
T
NGARGEE CENTRE
THEATRE
P11
C14
P5 P4 P3
G11
C13
C12
C9
AUD
C10
C11
DIS CL
Gate 1
T
T
10m SCALE BAR
0m
MA INT EN AN CE
College Map
T
SM1
SM2
EVACUATION AREA 1
Chapel
The Kealy Centre
Neff Science Centre
Stella Maris Centre
Ngargee Centre (Visual & Performing Arts)
Student Services & Health & Wellbeing Centre
Resource Centre & ICT
Ngargee Centre (Visual & Performing Arts) Specialist Technology Rooms Stella Maris Centre General Purpose Rooms Neff Science Centre Administration - Main Office Chapel West Office
Resource Centre & ICT
John Paul College
20m
30m
E NC NA TE AIN M 40m
50m
Bell Times NORMAL DAY TIMETABLE
•
There are six periods each day.
•
Each period goes for 50 minutes.
•
It is expected that students move from one class to the next as efficiently as possible.
•
Pastoral Group
8:30 AM - 8:45 AM
Period 1
8:45 AM - 9:35 AM
5 minutes of music will play following a bell at the start of the day and bells that conclude recess and lunchtime. This is to allow students to transition to class.
Period 2
9:35 AM - 10:25 AM
Recess
10:25 AM - 10:45 AM
Period 3
10:50 AM - 11:40 AM
•
Students should only be visiting their lockers; before school, recess, lunch and after school.
Period 4
11:40 AM - 12:30 PM
•
Assembly and Short Day timetables are listed in the College planner.
Lunch 1
12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
Lunch 2
12:50 PM - 1:15 PM
Period 5
1:20 PM - 2:10 PM
Period 6
2:10 PM - 3:00 PM
After School
3:00 PM - 3:20 PM
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Timetable •
A live timetable is available via the student management system, SIMON and the parent access module, PAM. Please refer to page 16 for further information on PAM.
•
All students should have a copy of their timetable in their College Planner.
•
A copy of their timetable should also be kept in their locker.
Pastoral Group
Period 1
Period 2
Day 1 Mon 7/11
2PCCM1 MCGA (A13)
2MAT07G TARA (A9)
2REL07G HERB (A9)
Day 2 Tues 8/11
2PCCM1 MCGA (A13)
Day 3 Wed 9/11
Period 3
Period 4
2HU07G PHIS (A9)
2ENG07G 2PEC07G WHIM (RC) WEBH (GY3)
2PCCM1 MCGA (A13)
2MAT07G TARA (A9)
Day 4 Thurs 10/11
2PCCM1 MCGA (A13)
Day 5 Fri 11/11
2PCCM1 MCGA (A13)
Teacher
Period 5
Period 6
2ENG07G WHIM (A9)
2SCI07G DALK (N3)
2ITA07G GOLY(A9)
2MAT07G TARA (A9)
2ITA07G GOLY(A9)
2REL07G 2MAT07G (HERB (A9) TARA (A9)
2HU07G PHIS (A9)
2ENG07G WHIM (A9)
2SCI07G DALK (N3)
2ENG07G 2PEC07G WHIM (RC) WEBH (GY3)
2MAT07G TARA (A9)
2ITA07G GOLY(A9)
2REL07G 2MAT07G (HERB (A9) TARA (A9)
2MAT07G TARA (A9)
2HU07G PHIS (A9)
2ENG07G WHIM (A9)
2SCI07G DALK (N3)
2MAT07G TARA (A9)
Recess
2REL07G HERB (A9)
2REL07G HERB (A9)
Subject Classroom
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Lunch 1 Lunch 2
2ITA07G GOLY(A9)
2ITA07G GOLY(A9)
Lockers Students at John Paul College are provided with lockers and a combination lock, to store their books, bags and devices. •
Maintaining their locker and keeping it in good order is the student’s responsibility.
•
Bags must be kept in students’ lockers and not taken to class.
•
It is important that students are organised and develop good habits from the start.
•
Students must always have a lock on their locker.
•
Students should never tell anyone their lock combination.
•
All valuables should always be locked away, unless with your child. (The schools phone policy stipulates that mobile phones must be stored securely in a students locker during the day and not be taken to class.)
•
Students are only permitted to use a combination lock and the school retains the right to access student lockers.
Students will be allocated a locker at the beginning of the school year by their Pastoral Group Teacher. Students can access their locker at the start and conclusion of the school day and during break times. To take into account this big adjustment, Year 7s are released from their Period 6 class 5 minutes early for the entirety of Term 1, this allows them some extra time to access their lockers before proceeding to their bus or leaving the College grounds. John Paul College will provide a lock for students at the commencement of their John Paul College journey. If a student loses or misplaces their lock, then they are required to purchase a replacement, which can be arranged with Student Services. If students cannot open their lock and need to access their locker, they can visit Student Services, where staff will be able to assist them in accessing their locker.
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Attendance and Sign In/Out Procedure •
For students arriving to school on time, they are to proceed straight to their Pastoral Care class as per their timetable.
Parents/Guardians collecting the student is asked to phone Student Services on arrival and to park near the school crossing and we will send their student out once they arrive.
•
PROCEDURE FOR LATE ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL
If it is a pre-arranged absence, students must proceed to Student Services to sign out before leaving the College grounds.
•
A request for future absence (partial or full day) can be made in advance via the PAM portal. Requests can also be made by calling or emailing Student Services.
•
Where possible, please provide as much notice as possible for the appointment so we can have your child waiting at Student Services.
Regular attendance at school supports the student to develop routine, learn efficiently and develop quality friendships and connections.
•
Students need to sign in at Student Services if they arrive after 8.30am
•
Parents can leave a message on the absence line on 9784 0237 or Text College 0499377423
•
Students can hand in a note from their Parent/Carer to Student Services.
•
Messages must include: - Name of Student - Pastoral Group (if known) - Brief reason for being late, approximate time of arrival
•
•
WHOLE DAY ABSENCE •
The College must be informed before 8:30am if your child is going to be absent for the day.
•
If Students do not sign in at Student Services, this will be flagged to House Coordinators as an irregular absence and will be followed up.
Notification can be made by phone, SMS or via the PAM Portal.
•
Where possible, please provide as much notice as possible for the appointment. A request for future absence (partial or full day) can be made in advance via the PAM portal. Requests can also be made by calling or emailing Student Services.
If the College is not notified, an SMS will be sent at 10:00am. Parent/carer is required to respond via SMS, phone or email with: Student name and reason for the absence.
•
This notification constitutes an explanation of the absence. If your child is not absent from school and you have received a notification, please contact the College immediately.
STUDENTS LEAVING DURING THE SCHOOL DAY •
Parents/Guardians need to notify the school prior if their student needs to leave school before the normal dismissal time. Notification is required prior to collection.
•
This can be done by contacting Student Services and advising of the pick up time and the reason for the early departure or through SIMON. The reason for the early departure will be recorded in SIMON.
•
The Student can also bring a signed note to the office at the commencement of the day stating the reason and time of the collection, as well as the name of the responsible adult collecting the student if it is not the Parent/Guardian.
STUDENT SERVICES CONTACT INFORMATION Student Services 9784 0207 Student Attendance 9784 0237 | SMS 0499 377 423 Email studentservices@jpc.vic.edu.au
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Uniform The John Paul College uniform unites our students and College, great care should be taken to ensure it is worn each day with pride and respect. Our uniform has been designed to be practical, comfortable and is a representation of our College values and history. John Paul College has both a summer and winter uniform that can be worn throughout the school year. The College sports uniform can be worn to and from school on the days of a scheduled sport class. The John Paul College Uniform shop is managed by Dobsons, offering instore and online purchasing services.
WHEN TO WEAR A BLAZER
WHEN TO WEAR A JUMPER
• Blazers are a compulsory uniform during Terms 2 and 3 only. • During Terms 2 and 3, blazers must be worn as students enter the College at the start of the day and when students exit the school at the end of the day. • Blazers are not to be worn as part of the Sport uniform.
• Jumpers can be worn all year round but never as the outermost garment when arriving at or leaving school. • If the jumper is worn when arriving or leaving school, students must also have their blazer on.
WHAT COLOUR SOCKS TO WEAR
WHAT JEWELLERY IS PERMITTED
• Students can only wear dark blue socks when wearing school uniform. These socks must not display writing or logos. • Black or white sport socks may be worn with PE uniform. Small logos are permitted.
• Students are permitted to wear small earrings (stud or hoop variety) and should be limited to two per ear. • Nose piercings are not permitted although small, clear plastic covers are permitted. • No other visible piercings are permitted
Facing the College from McMahons Road, the shop is located to the left of the gymnasium, in the Stella Maris Centre (enter via Gate 6 or Gate 8). Operating hours: Thursdays 12:30pm - 4:00pm and Saturdays 9:00am - 12:00pm The Uniform Shop contact number is (03) 9784 0281. Shop with Dobsons online, simply go to dobsons.com.au/schools/jon-paul-college/ Credit card and EFTPOS facilities are available. For more information contact Dobsons Website dobsons.com.au Email jpc@dobsons.com.au Dobsons Customer Service Tel 03 8788 7500 Or email: sales@dobsons.com.au
WHEN TO WEAR THE SPORT UNIFORM • Sport uniform can only be worn on days when students have a designated PE Practical Class identified on timetables by the room code GYM3. • Sport uniform is not to be worn on days of SIS Sport as students are expected to change into team uniforms at the venue.
WHAT ARE THE RULES AROUND HAIR AND MAKE-UP AND FACIAL HAIR? • Any makeup should appear natural • No facial hair is allowed • No eyelash or fingernail extensions are permitted • Nails must be of natural colour • Extreme hairstyles as determined by the DP Wellbeing are not permitted (eg non-natural colours, dreadlocks, or styles not accepted in a business environment)
Further details about the Uniform policy will be available in the student planner.
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WEARING A T-SHIRT UNDER THE SCHOOL SHIRT • Plain white T-shirts may be worn under the school shirts so long as no portion is visible. • This means they should be tucked in at the waist and should be of the V-neck variety.
WHEN TO WEAR SUMMER OR WINTER UNIFORM
• Summer and Winter Uniform can be worn by choice throughout the school year
Use of Mobile Phones and Headphones Mobile phones and other smart devices are permitted at the College for necessary communication when travelling to and from campus, under the following conditions: •
They may only be used before and after school hours.
•
They should be stored in the student’s locker during school hours.
•
If a student needs to make an urgent call on their phone during school hours they must seek permission from staff and make the call at Student Services.
•
Headphones can only be used during class time for learning purposes if allowed by a teacher.
•
Headphones are not to be used between classes.
In the case of an emergency, please make Student Services your first point of contact. This will ensure your child is reached as quickly as possible and assisted by a member of staff. More information on technology use will be available in the student planner.
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Laptop Responsibility BYOD PROGRAM
LAPTOP RESPONSIBILITY
John Paul College has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) program which sees every student bring an electronic device to school to support their learning.
Central to John Paul College’s mission is the importance of preparing students with the skills and values to engage successfully in the Twenty-First Century world.
The College has worked with JB Hi-Fi Education to provide a portal for parents to purchase the recommended devices at the lowest prices and to provide support for any issues that arise during the life of the laptop. The portal provides options for devices that meet the minimum devices specifications set out by John Paul College. These devices come with a 3-year Lenovo Warranty and Sealed Battery Warranty upgrade included. Families also have the option of purchasing Insurance Upgrade for Accidental Damage and/or Theft Insurance at an additional cost.
The College acknowledges the increased use and ownership of electronic devices within the community and in particular by students. As such it requires that teachers, students and parents take steps to ensure that electronic devices are used responsibly. Students will receive the College Electronic Device Policy at the start of the academic year. Parents are advised to discuss the policy, and the Agreement with their child to ensure ICT requirements of the College are followed and for online safety.
Should a problem arise with a device which has been purchased from the Parental Portal, the John Paul College ICT staff can assist in the warranty or insurance process with a JB Hi-Fi Technician, helping minimise the time in which your child does not have a working device. More information about the BYOD program can be found at: jpc.vic.edu.au > Learning > BYOD Program
Laptop Responsibilities for students •
Keep the device away from food, drink, pets and younger siblings.
•
Use a bag to protect the device from breaks, spills or drops.
•
Secure the device in lockers during recess and lunchtime.
•
Make sure the device is fully charged at the beginning of each day.
•
Keep passwords private.
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PAM and SIMON NAVIGATING PAM PAM & SIMON SIMON is the College’s Learning Management System which provides staff and students a shared and collaborative learning experience with simple functionality and workflows to view College content, communications and learning data.
Open a web browser and go to the below address: https://pam.jpc.vic.edu.au/ Enter your login details.
Students will use SIMON to see their live timetable, calendar, College daily notes and notifications and to source learning documentation from various subjects. Parent Access Module (PAM) is the parent arm of SIMON and is the communication tool between the College and the parents/guardian. PAM provides parents and guardians with quick, easy access to their child’s academic program, results, timetables and schedules and College policies and resources. PAM also hosts students medical information and is used to notify, and source approval for College activities.
If you do not have your login details, or have forgotten them, please contact the ICT Support Office at John Paul College. Phone: 03 9784 0246 Email: ictsupport@jpc.vic.edu.au
You will arrive at this screen: This is the main page. From here parents and guardians have access to links to other useful information and can see the daily messages and the calendar for current events.
In the top right corner, there is a bell icon which indicates upcoming details regarding Assessments and Activities & Excursions.
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PAM contains the following information: To access all relevant information for their child, parents and guardians need to click on the relevant student’s profile picture:
Personal Details: This area will show the child’s John Paul College Personal Details and Enrolment Details.
Letters: This area will provide families with all formal communication specific about their child.
Student Timetable: This area shows a live Timetable for the next two weeks of the child’s classes. Social Behaviour: This area will show a count of the child’s Incidents, Change Sessions etc.
Learning Tasks: In this area Parents/Guardians will be able to view all of their child’s Assessment Tasks (Previous and Current). Aswell as view results, feedback, rubrics and their child’s submissions (if uploaded to an assessment task).
Attendance: This area allows parents/guardians to download 3 types of attendance reports to view the child’s semester attendance.
Email Staff: In this area parents and guardians are able to communicate directly with their child’s class teachers via email.
• Attendance Summary
Medical Profile: In this area Parents/Guardians are asked to complete their child’s Profile. This will allow the College to view all Medical details about the child when they attend a School Activity Note: Families are asked to review medical records of their child prior to approving activities/excursion.
• Class Attendance Percentage • Period History Assessment Reports: From here Parents/Guardians can download all of their child’s academic reports during their time at John Paul College. Commendations: This area will show all extra-curricular activities the child has been part of during the year.
Connect: Connect fields allow Parents/Guardians to complete School consents for policies. School Activities: n this area parents and guardians will be able to approve all activities/excursions relating to their child.
ICT SUPPORT OFFICE CONTACT ictsupport@jpc.vic.edu.au
ICT Office Hours:
03 9784 0246
7.30am - 4.30pm: Monday to Thursday 7.30am - 4.00pm: Friday
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Learning and Teaching Vision Our Vision for learning was created through staff, student and parent feedback. This innovative Vision presents our aim and purpose for learning as a school. The Vision supports our teachers and students to work with a unified set of values and beliefs which will drive the development of improving student outcomes and the learning experience for all our students. Our vision comprises of a number of statements which reflect the Colleges collective values surrounding learning. Our vision states that we believe Learning is not just about knowledge and content, but growth. This includes emotional and intellectual growth, to ensure all our students can thrive to be their best self. The Vision is organised around three elements for learning: Knowledge, Capabilities and Self. These elements describe the key behaviours and skills that our students will develop, both in and out of the classroom, to become successful learners. To read the Learning and Teaching Vision visit: jpc.vic.edu.au/home/learning/learning-and-teaching-vision
ELEMENTS FOR LEARNING
Element
Element
Element
Knowledge
Capability
Self
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Year 7 Subjects In Years 7 and 8 students study across all learning areas including core subjects that run throughout the year, and elective units that are studied for two terms, providing students with an introduction to a range of subjects and interests which helps them make informed elective decisions in their later years.
CORE UNITS
ELECTIVE UNITS
English
Semester Based
Mathematics
Music
Science
Visual Communication and Design
Humanities
Studio Arts
Physical Education
Theatre Studies
Health
Product Design and Technology
Religious Education Italian Futures
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Student Learning CURRICULUM GUIDE
Homework and study activities may include:
The John Paul College Learning and Teaching Curriculum handbook describes the learning and teaching arrangements for Years 7 to 12. This includes a summary of every subject taught at the College, the Subject pathways and the requirements for an appropriate course at each year level. The Handbook also details the many Learning and Teaching policies including Homework and Study, Assessments and Reporting and Acceleration Policies. Also outlining the supporting programs and facilities available to support students learning including Academic Extension program, gifted and talented program and the Stewart Centre for Individualised Learning. Below is a snapshot of some of the content within the guide. Parents are encouraged to spend time with their student reading through the relevant information within the guide at each stage of their education journey at John Paul College. The full Learning and Teaching Curriculum guide is available here: jpc.vic.edu.au/home/learning/learning-and-teachingcurriculum-handbook
HOMEWORK AND STUDY
• Completing unfinished classwork • Reading texts and novels • Worksheets to reinforce classroom learning and skills • Projects and assignments • Multimedia • Practicing for a musical or drama performance • Practicing a language • Writing essays or other creative tasks •
Revising and study
Year 7 students will be supported by staff to use SIMON to keep track of their homework. Parents/Guardians can help their child develop good homework and study habits by: • Showing a positive attitude towards homework and study • Helping them get organised and take responsibility for their work • Setting up an appropriate study area away from distractions • Ensuring work/life balance by encouraging leisure, social and rest time • Making learning a part of every day life
Homework at secondary school level helps reinforce classroom learning and is a key factor in academic progress. It also fosters independent study habits and organisational skills that will benefit the student in later life. Our research-based homework policies ensure that homework complements classroom learning, is about quality not quantity, is age appropriate and allows for leisure and rest time. Year 7 students are expected to complete approximately 50 minutes of homework per day. This may increase with assessment tasks and some homework may be assigned during weekends and school holidays.
• Contacting teachers if there are any concerns .
ASSESSMENTS Year 7 students are assessed regularly throughout the year to track their progress and achievement as well as identify areas for improvement. Assessments for Year 7s include: CATs (Common Assessment Tasks) CATs are completed at least 3 times per semester for each subject. Marks and feedback are uploaded to
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Student Learning Cont. SIMON and contribute to semester reports. If the parent/guardian feels their child needs an assessment to be modified please discuss this with staff.
REPORTS
NAPLAN
Completed at the end of Terms 1 and 3. These report on the student’s learning behaviour in each subject and if Parent Teacher Interviews have been requested.
NAPLAN is an annual literacy and numeracy assessment completed by Year 7 and 9 students. The data from assessments is used to inform and improve teaching practices.
Interim Reports
Semester Reports Includes all CAT results, an overall result, late submissions, and where the student sits in relation to the Victorian Curriculum Achievement Standard.
EXTENSIONS, ABSENCE AND LATE SUBMISSION Students can request extensions prior to the due dates when the submission date cannot be met due to circumstances beyond the student’s control such as illness or family matters. If the student is absent from an assessment they must submit a medical certificate or note to Student Services. When a reason is not provided an ‘Overdue Work Notice’ will be sent to parents. Students then have 5 days to submit the task. Consequences for late submission of work may include: • 5% off the total mark for each day after due date • Repeated instances may result in a change session • Parent meeting and action plan developed
SATISFACTORY GRADE 50% is the minimum pass grade. If the student is required to re-sit or re-submit a task, parents will be notified. Read more about grading in our Assessment and Reporting Policy here: https://www.jpc.vic.edu.au/home/files/Stories/ PoliciesJPC/AssessmentandReportingPolicy.pdf
AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMIC STUDY PROGRAM The John Paul College After School Study Program aims to cultivate a learning culture within JPC that fosters effective study habits and access to additional resources for students. Taking place every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoon, from 3pm until 4:30pm in the College Resource Centre the program is a great opportunity for students from all year levels to further their learning. Teachers, Tutors and high achieving JPC Alumni assist students in: refining and expanding their study techniques, completing homework and revision, studying for a SAC or Test, and general organisation skills. The College encourages all students to utilise this program as an additional resource in their studies, liaising with teachers and past students to assist students in accessing the curriculum.
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Faith RETREATS Retreats are conducted throughout Years 7 to 12. These days are a chance for young people to stop, reflect and focus on important areas of their lives and faith. Year 7 Retreats are held in class groups in the early part of Term 1 each year.
PRAYER AND LITURGY Students engage in prayer each day in their Pastoral Care group and once a week as a House group. Students are invited to engage in Mass and other liturgical celebrations throughout the year. Friday Chapel is a favourite of our students, allowing young people to gather to share each other’s company.
SOCIAL JUSTICE AND VOLUNTEERING The Faith and Mission of John Paul College is the foundation of all that we do as a learning community. Developing the faith and spirituality of young people is part of delivering a holistic education. There are a variety of ways for students to engage with their faith throughout their time at John Paul College. We are proud to be a leading school in provision of Youth Ministry providing contemporary and engaging faith experiences for young people.
All year levels participate each year in Mission Action Day, raising money for their House causes at Christmas, Pastoral Care groups create hampers for St. Vincent de Paul to distribute to those in need. The Community Companion, the John Paul College Soup Van, allows young people at senior year levels the chance to volunteer assisting the homeless and marginalised in Frankston. At senior year levels, students have the option of participating in social justice immersions to Timor Leste, Philippines and India.
Our Catholic faith has a particular call to service to others, particularly the marginalised in our community. John Paul College endeavours to develop truly altruistic service experiences for young people, that they may become passionate agents of change in the world.
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Faith Cont. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Our learning and teaching of Religious Education follows the Archdiocesan curriculum with its focus on the ‘Horizons of Hope’ education framework. Understanding the developmental stages of our young people, this curriculum calls us to embrace the contemporary world with imagination, and a particular hope-filled view of the human person and all of creation. Our Religious Education teachers invite students to make sense of their world and their lives within a faith community that is faithful to the mission of Jesus. Consequently, we encourage our students to deeply engage with and question elements of faith and spirituality, acknowledging the variety of beliefs of their peers at John Paul College and indeed the world. Core elements of the curriculum that focus this growth of our students’ faith and spirituality within Religious Education at John Paul College are:
• Honouring equitable access and opportunity for all, with a particular commitment to those most in need • Committing to achieving the highest standards possible based on reflective practice, using data, research and evidence to ensure progress and growth in learning • Making a difference in the world, inspired by the Gospel and led by the Holy Spirit to grow in virtue and act for justice and the common good. We want every student to rise to challenges, to ask questions, and to be curious thinkers. We educate our students on the Catholic perspective and embrace valued traditions, while encouraging students to question and consider ideas, developing the crucial lifelong skill of critical and analytical thinking. In Year 7 RE, your sons and daughters will be exploring the topics of:
• The sacred dignity of each person, believing that everyone can experience success and be supported to see their lives as being shaped by the God who is at work in all of creation
• Belonging
• The search for truth, continuously critiquing, questioning, inquiring, imagining and re-imagining themselves and their world in an ongoing engagement with Catholic beliefs and practices
• Creation
• Embracing difference and diversity as the context for dialogue, engagement and a deeper understanding of self, others and God
• Eucharist
• Building a culture of learning together through collaboration, partnerships and life-giving relationships which enable all to flourish
• Our College founders • Lent and Easter
• Old Testament Stories • Prayer
• Advent as well as learning about important days in the Liturgical Calendar as they occur throughout the year.
• Engaging with the deep questions of life, constantly opening up spaces of meaning which engage Catholic faith with what matters most in the minds and hearts of the students
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House Spirit and Our Shield House connections play a significant role in our students’ journey at John Paul College and provide an extra sense of pride and belonging. The four Houses; Chaminade, D’Houet, Olsen and Turner pay special tribute to the our history and formation. Students are designated a House when they enter in Year 7 and stay with that House for their journey at the College.
CHAMINADE
D’HOUET
OLSEN
TURNER
Marianist Boys’ College preceded John Paul College, and this symbol of Mary our Mother continues today to hold significance for John Paul College. This panel is dedicated to Joseph Chaminade, founder of the Marianists. The charism of Chaminade is Perseverance.
The anchor, an ancient Christian symbol of hope, is representative of Stella Maris Girls’ College established by the Faithful Companions of Jesus. Stella Maris also preceded John Paul College. This panel is dedicated to Madeleine D’Houet, the founder of the Faithful Companions of Jesus. The charism of D’Houet is Courage.
The dolphin represents Frankston and the Peninsula. This panel is dedicated to OJ Olsen, a benefactor of John Paul College. The charism of Olsen is Generosity.
The Papal keys signify that the College community is held within the faith tradition of the universal Catholic Church. This panel of the College crest is dedicated to Mary Turner, one of the founders of John Paul College. The charism of Turner is Community.
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Wellbeing “It is in relationship with God and others in the school community that young people are enabled to discover who they are, where they come from, and what their destiny can be.” At John Paul College, student wellbeing is our highest priority. Wellbeing is central to young people’s academic learning and life outcomes. Our values, structures and teaching promote physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health and safety. The four pillars of wellbeing at the College are Pastoral Care, Child Safety, Community Engagement, and Student Voice & Agency. Our vision is for all students to feel safe, respected, supported and empowered in their school journey.
PASTORAL CARE
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Pastoral Care at John Paul College is a framework of support for our students from Year 7 to Year 12. It has a dual foundation of relationships and learning and is an integral element of our visible focus on wellbeing.
Community Engagement at John Paul College is centred on the understanding that authentic human flourishing occurs in communion and connection with others. By understanding our individual and collective responsibilities within the John Paul College community, we strengthen a sense of belonging which helps promote resilience, positive behaviour and supports mental and emotional wellbeing.
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Creating support networks for students
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Fostering social and emotional skills
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Extracurricular and co-curricular activities
CHILD SAFETY Child Safety at John Paul College is an explicit commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment where the emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual and physical wellbeing of our students is a priority.
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Building relationships with students, teachers, parents and community
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Instilling values of social justice, inclusion and equity
STUDENT VOICE AND AGENCY
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Zero tolerance for abuse
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Child safety policies and strategies
Student Voice and Agency at John Paul College is an embedded approach whereby students contribute their ideas and thoughts to their learning and wellbeing collaboratively with staff to develop empowerment and connection.
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Promotion of inclusion and diversity
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Collaboration with students, families and staff in decision making
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Student leadership opportunities
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Wellbeing Services John Paul College is well equipped with wellbeing services to support our students throughout their journey at the College.
COLLEGE NURSE The College Nurse is responsible for the management and operation of the Health Centre and care of the students and staff who require first aid, basic medical assistance and holistic welfare during school hours. Students who are taken ill or are injured during the school day have access to the College Health Centre. Should students require medical attention during class time, written permission in the student’s diary must be obtained from the classroom teacher. If warranted, the parents/guardians of an ill or injured student will be notified to collect the student, parents to enter via Gate 2. An ambulance will always be called in an emergency. Students are required to present themselves to the Health Centre and not contact the parents directly. The College Nurse will assess the severity of the condition and contact the parent if required. Your cooperation in this matter would be highly appreciated. The College Nurse is a member of the Occupational Health and Safety Committee and is located in the Student Services Office. In addition to our nurse, we have approximately 80 staff members trained in Level 2 First Aid. If a student is enrolled at John Paul College and has, specific medical needs then please contact College Nurse, Trish Fiore, on 9784 0303.
COLLEGE COUNSELLORS Most young people manage adolescence without major difficulties, however, sometimes issues or problems arise when professional help may be beneficial. As part of our commitment to pastoral care we provide a counselling service for students. By offering such a resource we acknowledge the unique demands faced by each student and their family and the importance of supporting the development of the whole person. Young people usually access the counselling services on a short-term basis. The counsellors offer interventions for issues such as depression, anxiety, peer relationships, grief and loss, learning difficulties, behaviour management, family issues, study skills, school refusal, bullying and stress. We aim to provide students with information and strategies to help them manage themselves and their school performance in the most effective way possible. At John Paul College we promote help seeking behaviours as a proactive means of meeting life’s challenges so we encourage students to use the College counselling service. Wherever possible, parental and carer involvement is sought and encouraged. Parents and carers are also encouraged to contact the service with any concerns they may have. In some situations it may be more beneficial for the parents/carers to meet with a counsellor to discuss how they can support their child, particularly when the student is reluctant to engage with counselling. Privacy and confidentiality are of primary importance to this role. The College’s counselling professionals are ethically and legally obliged to protect the privacy of our clients within the limits of safety. Any particular concerns or questions are most welcome.
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Notes
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McMahons Road, Frankston VIC 3199 03 9784 0200 | johnpaul@jpc.vic.edu.au
jpc.vic.edu.au
