2027
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Year 7 Welcome Book
CONTENTS
3 4 5 6 7 7 8 10 11 12 14 14 15 17 18 18 20 21 21 22 24
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Year 7 Welcome Book
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Welcome to Year 7 at John Paul College. We thank you for choosing our College for your 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. 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 genuinely feels a part of this community. We look forward to sharing the journey from Year 7 through to Year 12 with you as partners in your child’s education. 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 to create a school culture that fosters wellbeing, promotes resilience and inspires faith in action. My best wishes for the journey ahead. MR JOHN VISENTIN College Principal
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Year 7 Welcome Book
KEY DATES TUESDAY 8 DECEMBER 2026
MONDAY 1 FEBRUARY 2027
Orientation Day
First day for Year 7s
Arrive: 8:30am for a 8:45am start
Arrive: 8:30am for a 8:45am start
Finish: 12.30pm
Finish: 12:30pm
• • •
Casual Clothes Morning Tea will be provided, please bring a drink bottle Kealy Centre drop off and collection, accessible via Gate 5
• • • • •
John Paul College Summer Uniform Bring your laptop and pencil case Bring half your text and exercise books (bring remainder on the first full day) Morning Tea will be provided, please bring a drink bottle Kealy Centre drop off and collection, accessible via Gate 5
COMPUTER ONBOARDING WEEK
MONDAY 1 FEBRUARY 2027
18 – 22 January 2027
Year 7 School Photos
• • •
Your child will be invited to attend an ICT onboarding session alongside their new classmates. Families will receive an email closer to the date with their allocated session details. These sessions are designed to ensure each student’s laptop is correctly configured, connected to College systems, and ready for a smooth start on Day 1 of Year 7.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
• •
John Paul College Summer Uniform Blazer and jumper not required for photo
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Year 7 Welcome Book
CONNECTING THROUGH STAFF
John Visentin COLLEGE PRINCIPAL
Craig Judkins DEPUTY PRINCIPAL STUDENTS & ENGAGEMENT
Liam O’Keefe DEPUTY PRINCIPAL LEARNING & INNOVATION
Zoe Wood DEPUTY PRINCIPAL FAITH & MISSION
Vanessa Johnston HEAD OF STUDENTS (7 – 9)
Lauren Moore HEAD OF LEARNING (7 – 9)
Ella McConnell DIRECTOR OF INCLUSION & WELLBEING
Scott McCleary HEAD OF YEAR 7
Lainie Hayle HEAD OF YEAR 7
Alecia Misra YEAR 7 CASE MANAGER
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Year 7 Welcome Book
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 11.
COMMUNICATION There are many members of the College staff that will assist in the education of your children. The diagram below outlines the best staff member to contact depending on the question or need of the child. All enquiries via 03 9784 0200 or email through PAM.
CONNECTING WITH THE RIGHT PERSON All enquires via 03 9784 0200 or email through PAM
AREA OF INTEREST OR SUPPORT Overall Wellbeing & General Academics
Learning enquiries
CONTACT Pastoral Care Teacher
Subject Teacher
Student Absence & Early Collection
Via PAM (preferred method)
All other Student enquiries
Pastoral Care Teacher
VCE Guidance
Learning Area Leader
Stewart Centre for Individual Learning
Year Level Case Manager
VET enquiries
VET Coordinator
VM Program
VM Learning Area Leader
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Year Year 77 Welcome Welcome Book Book
BELL TIMES •
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.
•
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.
• • •
NORMAL DAY TIMETABLE Pastoral Group
8:30am - 8:45am
Period 1
8:45am - 9:35am
Period 2
9:35am - 10:25am
Recess
10:25am - 10:45am
Period 3
10:50am - 11:40am
Period 4
11:40am - 12:30pm
Students should only be visiting their lockers; before school, recess, lunch and after school.
Lunch 1
12:30pm - 12:50pm
Lunch 2
12:50pm - 1:15pm
Assembly and Short Day timetables are listed in the College planner.
Period 5
1:20pm - 2:10pm 2:10pm - 3:00pm
Please note there is no Pastoral (8:30 -8:45) on Wednesday mornings.
Period 6 After School
3:00pm - 3:20pm
TIMETABLE •
A live timetable is available via the student management system, SIMON and the parent access module, PAM. Please refer to page 15 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.
•
If there is a blank on a student’s timetable, it indicates that the student is expected to attend an event outside of their regular classes, such as an excursion or a guest speaker session. A blank will never appear without a specific reason.
•
Any changes to a student’s base timetable will be highlighted in red, typically indicating a classroom change. Pastoral Group
Period 1
Period 2
Day 1 Mon
PC07G MCGA (D3)
2MAT07G TARA (D3)
Day 2 Tues
PC07G MCGA (D3)
Day 3 Wed
Recess
Period 3
Period 4
2REL07G HERB (D3)
2HU07G PHIS (D3)
2ENG07G WHIM (D3)
2PEC07G WEBH (GY3)
2MA07G TARA (D3)
Lunch 1
Lunch 2
Period 5
Period 6
2ENG07G WHIM (D3)
2SCI07G DALK (N3)
2ITA07G GOLY (D3)
2MAT07G TARA (D3)
2ITA07G GOLY (D3)
2REL07G HERB (D3)
2MAT07G TARA (D3)
2REL07G HERB (D3)
2HU07G PHIS (D3)
2ENG07G WHIM (D3)
2SCI07G DALK (N3)
2ITA07G GOLY (D3)
2REL07G HERB (D3)
2MAT07G TARA (D3)
Day 4 Thurs
PC07G MCGA (D3)
2ENG07G WHIM (RC)
2PEC07G WEBH (GY3)
2MAT07G TARA (D3)
2ITA07G GOLY (D3)
Day 5 Fri
PC07G MCGA (D3)
2MAT075 TARA (D3)
2REL07G HERB (D3)
2HU07G PHIS (D3)
2ENG07G WHIM (D3)
Blank indicates no Pastoral Group or an event.
Subject Teacher JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
2ENG07G WHIM (D3)
Year 7 Stream Classroom
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Year 7 Welcome Book
COLLEGE MAP John Paul College 1 Specialist Technology Rooms
10 Ngargee Centre (Visual and Performing Arts)
2 General Purpose Rooms
11 Stella Maris Centre
3 Administration - Main Office
12 Neff Science Centre
4 Staff Professional Learning Room
13 Chapel
5 Wellbeing Hub
14 The Kealy Centre
6 Student Services
Restrooms
7 Chaminade Building
Accessible Restrooms
ICT Support
Canteen
8 FCJ Centre Learning and Teaching 9 Resource Centre and ICT
BUS BAYS
EVACUATION AREA 1
11
11
11
THE KEALY CENTRE
STELLA MARIS CENTRE
14
11 CARPARK GATE 5 GATE 8
GATE 7
PEDESTRIAN ENTRY
GATE 6
McMAHON
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Year 7 Welcome Book
Wellbeing Hub
Head of Year 9
Head of Year 7
Head of Year 8
College Nurse LEARNING COMMUNITY
2
LEARNING COMMUNITY
2
LEARNING COMMUNITY
2
ADMIN
RESOURCE CENTRE AND ICT
4
CANTEEN
9
2
STAFF
2 5
TECHNOLOGY
1 2
COMMUNITY COMPANION VAN
2 NEFF SCIENCE CENTRE
BLOCK G
MAINTENANCE
CHAMINADE CENTRE
12 7
2
THEATRE
MAINTENANCE
NGARGEE CENTRE
2
2 STEWART CENTRE
GLA
ADMINISTRATION
STUDENT SERVICES
1
10
FOOD TECH
3 CHAPEL
6
2
13 2
CARPARK
FCJ CENTRE LEARNING AND TEACHING
8
CARPARK
CARPARK
GATE 3 GATE 4 PEDESTRIAN ENTRY
NS ROAD
CARPARK
GATE 2
Student Services GATE 1
0m SCALE BAR
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
10m
20m
30m
40m
50m
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Year 7 Welcome Book
LOCKERS Students are provided with lockers and combination locks at the beginning of the year. • • • • • •
•
Maintaining their locker and keeping it in good order is the student’s responsibility. Bags must be kept in students’ lockers and not taken in class. It is important that students are organised and develop good habits from the start. Students must always have a lock on their locker and ensure that it is locked at all times. Students should never tell anyone their lock combination. All valuables should always be locked away, unless with your child. (The College's phone policy stipulates that mobile phones must be stored securely in a student's locker during the day and not be taken to class.) Students are only permitted to use a combination lock and the College retains the right to access student lockers.
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. If a student loses or misplaces their lock, 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 for assistance.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Year 7 Welcome Book
SCHOOL ATTENDANCE Regular attendance at school supports the student to develop routine, learn efficiently and develop quality friendships and connections. Students arriving to school on time, must go to their locker to store their belongings and collect their books. Students must then proceed to their Pastoral Care class as per their timetable.
REQUEST FOR EXTENDED LEAVE • •
LATE ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL (AFTER 8:30AM) • • • • •
Students must sign in at Student Services upon arrival. Parents can leave a message on the absence line on 9784 0237 or Text College 0499 377 423 Students can hand in a note from their Parent/ Carer to Student Services. If students do not sign in at Student Services, this will be flagged to Year Level Coordinators as an irregular absence and will be followed up. Where possible, please provide as much notice as possible for an 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.
All requests for leave from school due to holidays/ travel must be made directly to the Principal’s Office. All other requests for planned leave due to medical or personal reasons must be directed to your child’s Pastoral Care Teacher and/or the College at attendance@jpc.vic.edu.au.
ABSENCE FROM CHANGE SESSION
Students who have a scheduled Change Session on a day of full absence will have their session rescheduled to the next available date.
FEELING UNWELL DURING SCHOOL DAY • • •
Students who are unwell must report to the College Nurse, who will assess their condition and contact parents/carers if they need to go home. At no point should students contact parents directly. All students leaving early must be signed out at Health Centre.
PARTIAL DAY ABSENCE • • • •
Arriving late or leaving early due to an appointment or other reason must be entered via PAM portal. Any notification of early leave after 12 noon must be reported via phone to Student Services. Student must be collected from Student Services and signed out. Steps: 1. Parent Notified Absence up to 4 days (top right corner) 2. Add Absence 3. Select Reason (drop down) 4. Select Absence Period (drop down) 5. Select Absence Date 6. Include notes on absence
WHOLE DAY ABSENCE • • • •
The College must be informed via PAM portal by 8:30am if the student is going to be absent for the day. Should you have issues accessing your PAM portal, notification via SMS or voicemail is acceptable. If the College is not notified of students’ absence, an SMS will be sent at 10:00am. If you are unaware of your student’s absence and receive an absence SMS, please notify the College immediately.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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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Welcome Book
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.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
Visit the website for Uniform policy and links to Dobsons www.jpc.vic.edu.au/student-life/books-and-uniform For more information contact Dobsons In store 203 Mornington Tyabb Rd, Mornington Website dobsons.com.au Email jpc@dobsons.com.au Dobsons Customer Service Tel (03) 5976 2306 Or email: sales@dobsons.com.au
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Year 7 Welcome Book
UNIFORM John Paul College expects all students to present themselves strictly in accordance with uniform guidelines. •
• •
All students are expected to wear the regulation College uniform whilst at and traveling to and from school. A high standard is expected with regard to the condition of the uniform and the way it is worn. The John Paul College bag is a compulsory school requirement. Dresses and skirts must not be shorter than 5cm above the knee cap.
WHEN TO WEAR A BLAZER • •
• • •
Blazers are compulsory during Terms 2 and 3 only. During Terms 2 and 3, blazers must be worn whilst travelling to and from school. Blazers are not to be worn as part of the Sport uniform. Blazers must be worn at whole school Assemblies Blazers must be worn to homeroom each morning
•
•
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. Socks worn with formal school uniform must not be ankle socks and must be able to be pulled up.
•
WHEN TO WEAR A JUMPER •
•
WHAT COLOUR SOCKS TO WEAR •
•
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 JEWELLERY IS 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.
Shorts and trousers must be secured at the waist and not be worn below the hip. Shorts length must not be below the knee. Shoes must be black, polishable school shoes. They must maintain good, polished condition. Shoes that are not permitted include black leather runners, leather skate or other sport shoes (eg. Vans) and black canvas shoes.
•
•
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 & MAKEUP 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 Students and Engagement are not permitted (eg non-natural colours, dreadlocks, or styles not accepted in a business environment)
Further details upon the Uniform policy will be available in the 2026 Student Planner.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
WEARING A T-SHIRT UNDER THE SCHOOL SHIRT
WHEN TO WEAR THE SPORT UNIFORM
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.
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Year 7 Welcome Book
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. Headphones must be connected via a lead and cannot be Bluetooth compatible.
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. No Bluetooth compatible device is permitted during the school day in accordance with the 2027 Department of Education guidelines.
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 21st-century world.
The College has worked with Edunet 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 Warranty including accidental damage cover, and Sealed Battery Warranty upgrade included. Families also have the option of purchasing an additional Insurance Upgrade including Theft Insurance.
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 Parent Portal, the John Paul College ICT staff can assist in the warranty or insurance process with an Edunet 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: • • • • •
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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.
ICT SUPPORT OFFICE CONTACT 15
Year 7 Welcome Book
PAM & SIMON
ictsupport@jpc.vic.edu.au 03 9784 0246 ICT Office Hours: 7:30am - 4:00pm | Monday to Friday
PAM & SIMON
NAVIGATING PAM
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 portal 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 forgoten 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, 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 a notification.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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Welcome Book
PAM & SIMON PAM contains the following information:
Personal Details: This area will show the child’s John Paul College Personal Details and Enrolment Details. 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. Attendance: This area allows parents/guardians to download attendance reports to view the child’s semester attendance. 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 indicate positive behaviours to encourage and acknowledge students who strive for personal growth. Letters: This area will provide families with all formal communication specific to their child. Learning Tasks: In this area Parents/Guardians will be able to view all of their child’s Assessment Tasks (Previous and Current). As well as view results, feedback, and their child’s submissions (if uploaded to an assessment task).
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
Email Staff: In this area parents and guardians are able to communicate directly with their child’s class teachers via email. 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. Connect: Connect fields allow Parents/Guardians to complete School consents for policies. School Activities: In this area parents and guardians will be able to approve all activities/excursions relating to their child.
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Year 7 Welcome Book
STUDENT ENGAGEMENT 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.”
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.
• • •
Creating support networks for students Fostering social and emotional skills 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.
•
• • •
Zero tolerance for abuse Child safety policies and strategies Promotion of inclusion and diversity
STUDENT VOICE AND AGENCY 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. • •
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
Building relationships with students, teachers, parents and community Instilling values of social justice, inclusion and equity
Collaboration with students, families and staff in decision making Student leadership opportunities
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Year 7 Welcome Book
PASTORAL CARE All students in Year 7 will be assigned a Pastoral Care group which also functions as their class group. The Pastoral Care group will also be based upon house allocation so that a connection with the identity and charism of the house can be established. In most cases, the Pastoral Care teacher will also teach your child for another subject. Across the cycle, the Pastoral Care teacher will see your child every morning (except for Wednesdays) and for a minimum of three 50 minute lessons. During the designated Pastoral Care lessons the ‘Horizons’ program will be delivered. Horizons: Shaping Futures Through Relationships, Responsibility, Respect, and Reflection. At Horizons, we envision a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential. Our program is dedicated to fostering meaningful relationships, instilling a sense of responsibility, and cultivating mutual respect. By
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
encouraging reflection, we aim to prepare our students for the future by equipping them with the skills and values necessary to navigate life’s challenges and opportunities with confidence and integrity. 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. The Pastoral Care teacher is the primary person to ensure that your child presents according to the Student Code of Conduct. Should a student breach this, it is likely the Pastoral Care teacher will make contact with the parents/carers to discuss the issue. Student achievement will be recognised through the issuing of Commendations with the hope that all students can be praised for the positive contribution they make to the life of the College. Our aim is to empower all students with a sense of achievement
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Year 7 Welcome Book
HOUSE SPIRIT In 2027, five new Houses will be introduced: Assisi, Bosco, Glowrey, MacKillop and Romero. This change is not about leaving our history behind, but building upon it and creating a House structure that more intentionally reflects who we are and what we aspire to be as a Catholic learning community. Each House draws inspiration from a person whose life demonstrates faith expressed through action, service, courage and compassion. Their stories provide each House with a distinctive identity while offering different
ASSISI HOUSE HOUSE PATRON St Francis of Assisi
HOUSE VALUE Stewardship
BOSCO HOUSE HOUSE PATRON St John Bosco
HOUSE VALUE Joy
GLOWREY HOUSE HOUSE PATRON Dr Mary Glowrey
HOUSE VALUE Compassion
MACKILLOP HOUSE HOUSE PATRON St Mary of the Cross MacKillop
HOUSE VALUE Courage
ROMERO HOUSE HOUSE PATRON St Oscar Romero
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
HOUSE VALUE Integrity
expressions of the values and aspirations we share as one College community. More than names, colours or opportunities for competition, our Houses are intended to be communities of belonging, identity and formation. Through the people who inspire them, students will encounter examples of lives shaped by faith and service, discovering how these values can guide their own choices, relationships and contributions to the world around them.
As the patron of Assisi House, St Francis encourages students to care for our common home, act with compassion and become peacemakers in their communities. His example reminds us that faith is not simply something we believe, but something we live through our actions.
St John Bosco’s legacy encourages Bosco House students to recognise the potential in themselves and others, build communities where people feel valued and supported, and use their talents for the good of others. His example reminds us that success is not only about achievement, but also about helping others to flourish.
Venerable Dr Mary Glowrey’s life provides a powerful example of using personal gifts for the common good. Through Glowrey House, students are encouraged to pursue excellence with humility, respond compassionately to those in need and consider how their own talents can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop’s well-known words, “Never see a need without doing something about it,” capture the practical nature of her faith. As the patron of MacKillop House, she challenges students to respond to need with action, persevere through difficulties and lead with courage, compassion and humility.
St Oscar Romero’s life demonstrates the courage required to live consistently with one’s beliefs. As the patron of Romero House, he encourages students to act with integrity, stand up for what is right and use their voice to advocate for others. His legacy reminds us that leadership is not about power or status, but about service and responsibility.
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Year 7 Welcome Book
WELLBEING SERVICES John Paul College is well equipped with wellbeing services to support our students throughout their journey at the College.
HEALTH CENTRE
WELLBEING HUB
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.
Adolescence is a time of intense social and emotional development. Students may sometimes need additional support to navigate challenges and develop the skills necessary for fulfilling lives. Our newly established Wellbeing Hub provides a welcoming and safe reflective space for students as part of our commitment to pastoral care.
Students who are ill or injured during the school day have access to the College Health Centre. Should students require medical attention during class, a class pass will be entered by the teacher so they can attend the Health Centre. 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 must go 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 on 9784 0303.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
The Wellbeing Hub offers access to counselling and interventions for a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, peer relationships, grief and loss, learning difficulties, behaviour management, family issues, study skills, school refusal, bullying, and stress. Our counselling professionals provide students with information and strategies that foster resilience and self-regulation, empowering them throughout their school journey. Parents and carers are 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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Year 7 Welcome Book
YEAR 7 SUBJECTS CORE SUBJECTS SEMESTER BASED SUBJECTS
YEAR LONG SUBJECTS English & Language
English Italian
Health & Physical Education
Health & Physical Education
Humanities
Humanities
Religious Education
Religious Education
Science
Science
Mathematics
Mathematics
Technology
Textiles
Performing Arts
Drama Music
Visual Arts
Art
Maths Enhancement*
JPC 5 Establish Your Expectations 1.
Respect learning time. Arrive promptly and remain in class until the end.
4.
aptops must stay L closed unless explicitly asked to use them.
2.
tay in class during S lessons. Use breaks to go to the toilet and get a drink.
5.
top, look, and listen S when your teacher asks for attention.
3.
ring all required B materials to every class (for both periods).
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
ABOUT JPC 5 JPC 5 is a clear, consistent set of expectations to promote a calm, focused, and respectful learning environment for every student.
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Welcome Book
STUDENT LEARNING CURRICULUM GUIDE 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.
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: • •
Parents and students are encouraged to spend time 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/wellbeing-for-learning/learning-at-jpc
• •
HOMEWORK AND STUDY 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. Homework and study activities may include: • • • • • • • •
Completing unfinished classwork Reading texts and novels Worksheets to reinforce classroom learning and skills Multimedia Practising for a musical or drama performance Practising a language Writing essays or other creative tasks Revising and study
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
•
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 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 three times per semester for each subject. Marks and feedback are uploaded to SIMON and contribute to semester reports. NAPLAN NAPLAN is an annual literacy and numeracy assessment completed by Year 7 and 9 students. PAT All students will complete PAT (Progressive Achievement Tests) annually in Years 7-10. These tests measure what students know, understand and are capable of across domains.
ACADEMIC EXTENSION We offer a wide range of enrichment programs designed to challenge and inspire students. Using tools like the Progressive Achievement Test (PAT), scholarship testing, and teacher recommendations, we identify students with strong academic potential and invite them to take part in extension opportunities. Weekly Maths Extension classes, Gifted and Talented Enrichment programs, national and global academic competitions allow students to explore big ideas and solve complex problems.
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Year 7 Welcome Book
EXTENSIONS, ABSENCE AND LATE SUBMISSION
AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMIC STUDY PROGRAM
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 five days to submit the task.
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.
Consequences for late submission of work may include:
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.
• •
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
REPORTS Interim Reports 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. Semester Reports Includes all CAT results, an overall result, late submissions, and where the student sits in relation to the Victorian Curriculum Achievement Standard.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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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Year 7 Welcome Book
FAITH PRAYER AND LITURGY Students engage in prayer each day in their Pastoral Care groups and learn about the deeper meaning of prayer in their Religious Education classes. Students participate in communal prayer through whole school masses and other liturgical celebrations throughout the year. Students are invited to read and contribute their own prayers in House liturgies and celebrations, which offer them a chance to gather and share in 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, within the Religious Education curriculum, through lunchtimes clubs and volunteering and through extra curricular activities. We are proud to provide contemporary and engaging faith experiences for young people. 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.
RETREATS Retreats take place across multiple year levels.These days are an opportunity for young people to stop, reflect and spend some time in community and prayer together. Retreats allow our students to focus on their faith and nourish their spiritual lives. Retreats are held in class groups, allowing students to connect with others and develop a sense of belonging at JPC.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
All year levels participate each year in Mission Action Day (MAD), raising money for their House causes. At Christmas, Pastoral Care groups create hampers for St Vincent de Paul to distribute to those in need in our local community. At the senior year levels, students have a range of volunteering opportunities including: assisting on The Community Companion Van, the John Paul College run charity which supports the homeless and marginalised in the Frankston area; visiting the residents at Skye Lodge for conversation and important community connections; supporting students at the Nepean School, a learning environment for children with a physical disability and/or complex health impairment; and assisting with Retreats for our parish primary schools and our own younger year levels. Also at the senior levels, students have the option of participating in social justice immersions to the Philippines and Timor Leste.
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Year 7 Welcome Book
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Our learning and teaching of Religious Education follows the Melbourne Archdiocesan curriculum 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: •
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
•
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
•
Embracing difference and diversity as the context for dialogue, engagement and a deeper understanding of self, others and God
•
Building a culture of learning together through collaboration, partnerships and life-giving relationships which enable all to flourish
•
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
•
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.
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
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 child will be exploring the topics of: • • • • • •
Belonging (Our College founders) Lent and Easter Creation Old Testament Stories Prayer with the Psalms Advent
as well as learning about important days in the Liturgical Calendar as they occur throughout the year.
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Year 7 Welcome Book
USE YOUR CREST CARD TO SIMPLIFY SCHOOL LIFE Chartered Buses Tap each time you board a John Paul College Chartered Bus
Toilet Access
If you lose your Crest Card before the end of the school day, please visit Main Office reception If you lose your Crest Card in the morning, the bus drivers will be able to assist you.
Photocopiers
Lift Access
Easily print and copy
Canteen Our canteen is now online with Order and load your crest card online.
Check-in/ Check-out at Student Services
Lost or Replacement Cards If you lose your Crest Card, you must pay a $10 replacement fee at the Finance Office and collect a new card from the ICT Department. Replacements are usually available by the end of the day.
Use your Crest Card for canteen purchases. Simply download the Flexischools App and link your JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au account directly to your Crest Card.
Borrow Books
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Year 7 Welcome Book
NOTES
JOHN PAUL COLLEGE www.jpc.vic.edu.au
jpc.vic.edu.au