34 Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favouritism. 35 In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. 36 This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.
Our God does not show favouritism… Back when the disciple Peter was sharing this with the Roman Centurion – Cornelius, the idea that God was really only pleased by people following strict rules and regulations as outlined in the Old Testament was still prevalent. But Jesus’ work here on earth changed this for the rest of history – of which we are a part!
We have been marvelling at all the Holy Spirit worked in the years immediately after Jesus life, death and resurrection. This has been done in age appropriate ways across the whole College in our Chapel times and devotions.
God is not interested in us striving in our own strength to obey man made rules and endeavouring to make ourselves worthy through our ‘good deeds’. What He is interested in, is our preparedness to connect with Him throughout our daily lives in prayer and awareness of His love for each of us and all people.
Just as Peter was wary of the Romans, we can be wary of others too – sometimes with good reason but ultimately, we can rely on God’s Spirit – the Holy Spirit to bring goodness and wholeness into our midst. This might be needed in our homes, in our work places… it is needed amongst us here at school as we interact with each other. Life is always challenging but it can also be invigorating and an adventure as we share all we do with the God who does not show favouritism to anyone in particular – but is always ready to bless us with His favour as we are open to all He has promised us in Jesus.
Graeme Schache Lay Chaplain and Middle/Senior School Teacher
Secondary School
From the Deputy Principal Head of Secondary School
CELEBRATING INNOVATIVE THINKING
Last Friday was pitch night for the IC’20 Entrepreneurial studies program. In its fourth year, the program includes students across Years 7-12 and the participants continue to grow in confidence and real-life business acumen. Many of the students who have taken part in previous years have gone on to prototype and launch their business ideas.
I’d like to acknowledge Mrs Myles who oversees this program with the support of Mr Smith, Ms Sippel and Ms Yeo and a range of external business mentors. I’d also like to thank Dr Baden U’Ren from Bond University who helped us to establish the program and who continues to offer his support to our entrepreneurs. Mr Mark Woodland from XPlor has kindly donated the funds to fly our top three students to Melbourne, accompanied by a parent, to spend the day in industry at his headquarters learning with and from his team of entrepreneurs in 2021. Mr Derek Bartels, Director of Innovation and Technology for Lutheran Education Queensland was also part of our judging panel and his involvement is an absolute blessing.
Congratulations to;
Laila B, Pet Connect – an app that connects people who would love a pet but can’t have one for any given reason with busy families who need help caring/walking their pets;
Zoe F, Cybersafe – an app that walks young victims of bullying through the 4 advised steps to thwart bullies; and
Annie R, Bluetooth speaker necklace – a necklace that helps non-verbal persons (such as victims of cerebral palsy) to communicate.
Have a great time in Melbourne!
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POWERFUL AND ENGAGING LEARNING
I’ve been truly inspired by the learning I’ve come across in and out of normal classes these past few weeks. In the Arts, watching our young people perform for the Cultural Awards which has been filmed and will soon be accessible via the Website, was such a blessing. The Saints played at the Southport Jazz Club. The Battle of the Bands was narrowly won by Binging House and the MMXX Vision (Year 12 Graduating Visual Arts Exhibition) launched onsite and is accessible to parents and the wider community on the website. This exhibition will be showcased again at the Year 12 Valedictory. Well done to all our artists on their deep talents and expressive brilliance!
In the Middle School, we welcomed our Year 7, 2021 cohort to a special Community Connect afternoon of activities and the My Business Rules class tested their products and business plans in the Amphitheatre. This year, for the first time we published a collection of our Year 8 students’ short stories. This Anthology publication will be a yearly highlight on the calendar and it was truly special to hear our young authors narrate parts of their works.
Year 10 Business students travelled to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to investigate Human Resources and Operational Strategies used in a not for profit organisation; Year 11 Biology students travelled to UQ for Ecology studies experience and a collection of our budding scientists (Years 7-12) were blessed to have a virtual Question and Answer session with Dr Karl Kruszelnick.
Today we celebrated World Staff Day. I would like to take the opportunity to thank all staff for their care, dedication and commitment towards ensuring the best possible learning environment for our students to enjoy. Students wrote lovely affirmations and thank you notes to their teachers and other members of College staff and these were received with great appreciation. The P & F also thanked staff with a Coffee Van and slice.
From the teachers working with students in classrooms to our grounds and administrative staff, each member of our St Andrews team continues to work diligently towards making this a great community. For that, we are so grateful!
With gratitude and appreciation
Virginia Warner Deputy Principal Head of Secondary School
From Head of Senior School
Our current Year 12 Students will be contacted early next year to assist with a Queensland Government Next Step Survey.
Please read the flyer attached for more information.
From the Head of Middle School
Term 4 is progressing rapidly. Hopefully, you all received the Assessment Calendars last week. If not, please check with your child. I strongly suggest printing out the relevant year level page and putting a copy on the fridge.
The image below is a good reminder of how we strive to work with our students each day. All our Personal Development sessions, general classroom structure and informal interactions between staff and students aim to nurture each student’s ‘inner world’. Positive psychology has been our guide over the past 7 years to work with our students. During 2020, these areas have been even more important to encourage in our young people.
Over the next fortnight, the relevant Year Level Co-ordinators will begin constructing the classes for 2021. Please email me if you have any educational reasons for placing your child in a certain class. As you can imagine, the construction of these lists is challenging, balancing academic and social/emotional needs of all students.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns or queries lisar@salc.qld.edu.au.
Lisa Roper Head of Middle School
Science News
DR KARL SKYPE INTERVIEW
An online talk was arranged with Author and Scientist, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki, https://drkarl.com/ who spoke to a group of Science students in the Secondary Library. It was a fascinating session and students came away with new understandings of the Science field.
Dr Karl answered students’ curious and pertinent questions important to them, such as:
The science seems very clear in that climate change is real and significant, and the best way to address it is to act now. Despite this, law makers are reluctant to commit to more sustainable and environmentally friendly policies. How can the disconnect between Science and policy be addressed?
In your opinion, how can communication between these two fields be improved to address climate change?
When do you think renewable energy will totally replace fossil fuels?
If the Federal Government is “pushing” for more Science related degrees, what are the possible career paths that they are interested in filling?
If the Universe is expanding, what is it expanding into?
The Dr Karl's Skype call was a once in a life time opportunity to talk to this famous Australian Scientist! During the talk students were given the opportunity to ask questions. Dr Karl was able to answer these and elaborate on the subject material related to the question. He also recommended many useful literature resources that we could access to expand our knowledge in our chosen fields. I have a page of notes just in sources! This was definitely an awesome experience and I would do it again at the drop of a hat.
Shay B Year 8 Student
Secondary Library News
The Secondary Library has celebrated the Children’s Book Council of AustraliaBook Week: Curious Creatures Wild Minds this past week. Our literary events included the presentation of the Year 8 short stories anthology book – What lies beneath and other stories. Huge thank you to the English teachers and Library staff, Mrs Kristo who was a driving force in the publication of this book.
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Fun book week activities have included 3D printing, daily pop up quizzes and the Curious Creatures Wild Minds Lego Wall challenge with Tuckshop voucher prizes.
THE PLACE TO BE...
The Secondary Library continues to be the ‘place to be’ with Year 12 students studying for their upcoming exams, history classes utilising the space and resources of the Library, and students enjoying time for themselves and with friends. Daily, the Library space is utilised by large numbers of students before and after school, and during lunch. It is fantastic!
CREATIVE WRITING AND BOOK CLUB
Our student-led Creative Writing and Book Club launched their mystery theme for Term Four. Held every Wednesday lunch time, students get to know and interact with others interested in reading, and enjoy activities such as story making games or picking questions about the books out of a hat.
NEW BOOKS
The CRC Library is proud to encourage and support student’s voice and choice with our focus to “buy what you want”. This week our interactive display has sought student book recommendations for upcoming book orders.
ASK A LIBRARIAN
Your Librarians are always happy to help with research, finding resources, book recommendations and IT support. We also love to chat about books, life and the universe 😊 Come in and chat to us or via Teams or email:
Warmest regards, The CRC Secondary Library Team
Junior School
from the Co-Acting Head of Junior School
This week we have welcomed into the College, the Class of 2034 – our Prep 2021 Class. As they have attended our COVID-safe Teddy Bears Adventure each afternoon it is enlightening to see the joy on their faces as they begin to explore their learning home for the next 13 years. It has given me time to reflect on how exciting it is to be part of a nurturing, caring and growing community. As I walk around the campus I am thankful for the many opportunities that students have to develop their God-given gifts and serve each other and our world.
Throughout last week the Cultural Awards for 2020 were filmed in the Ruth Butler Theatre with many dance, speech, choir and band performances featured. Such a wonderful testament to our ongoing Cultural Program as we nurture the individual. Look out for further information on how to view these performances. They are very entertaining to watch.
Our Year 4 classes have visited the Nerang PCYC Bike Safety facility this week to further develop their understandings of the world around them and those vital skills needed for life. The students had a lot of fun trying out different activities.
Last Friday and Monday our Futsal teams played in the Champion of Champions competition. Our 11 Year Boys won, defeating Calvary 6-0 in the final. Other teams also represented the College with pride and enjoyed the competition.
Also this week, Pastor Nathan organised the launch of ‘The Fathering Project’. An exciting opportunity for the Dads in our community to link together and engage in all-things Dad.
Today is World Staff Day. We are so fortunate to have a wonderful team of staff who are dedicated to improving our students to be the best they can be. Thank you so much to the team for the commitment they show to our community each and every day.
Blessings and prayers for the weeks ahead.
Karen Koehler Co-Acting Head of Junior School
From the Junior School Counsellor
RIDING THE WAVES OF LIFE
Our kids are precious, but they’re not fragile. They can be sensitive without having to be delicate.
If we bubble-wrap them and protect them from any injury, any distress, or any potential challenge, we actually make them more fragile. We communicate to them, “I don’t think you can handle this, and you need me to shelter you.” In so doing, we deny them the privilege of the practice of feeling and sitting in discomfort and finding their way out, and of seeing that they are strong and resourceful.
Last week a wonderful book came in the mail. It is called “Mop Rides The Waves of Life” by Jaimal Yogis. The story is about a boy named Mop who loves to surf. At school, Mop finds some social situations challenging. If people call him names, or criticise him, he lashes out physically. He realises this actually makes him feel worse. After a bad week at school Mop’s Mum takes him surfing and explains that he is not a victim to his emotions or circumstances. Just like the waves, his emotions present him with choices. He can feel overcome by the waves or he can let the bad waves pass by. Her analogy includes phrases like “stormy waves are natural” and that sometimes “falling is the best way to learn”.
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She encourages him to enjoy the happy feelings when they come along. The ocean and tides are constantly changing, and we need them to have the courage to keep paddling out, to keep trying again and again, so that their strength and resilience can be developed for the big waves that can hold them under.
It’s out of our deep love for our children that we want to protect them, but their capacity will be greater, their spirit larger, if we allow that love to lead us to our own courage. Courage to feel strong enough to let them discover their own strength and ride their own waves.
Mardi Frost Junior School Counsellor
The Arts
Arts corner
GOLD COAST DRAMA FESTIVAL RESULTS
This year we entered three plays in The Gold Coast Secondary School’s Drama Festival – Ivy Shambitt and the Sound Machine, Picnic at Hanging Rock and The Hanging.
These performances were filmed and viewed by an adjudicator. Congratulations to all of our young Actors.
THE HANGING – Senior Play
Highly Commended Performance
Isaac T Kiara F Isabella MacD
PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK – Intermediate Play
Highly Commended Performance
Isabella Y Madyson C Sophie C
Outstanding Actor
Sophie C
IVY SHAMBITT AND THE SOUND MACHINE – Junior Play
Highly Commended Performance
The Ensemble Georgi W Scarlett T Olivia F Jasmine C Stella S
Outstanding Supporting Actor
Jasmine C
Outstanding Actor
Olivia F Georgi W
And a special congratulations to the Junior cast who won Runner up Best Play
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CULTURAL AWARDS RECORDING
Last week saw all Choirs, Bands, Music Ensembles and Dance Troupes recorded for our Cultural Awards showcase. It was such a wonderful week of music and performance and it was a great opportunity for the younger students to be inspired watching the older students perform. We look forward to sharing these with our community later in the term.
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BATTLE OF THE BANDS
With thanks to Georgia H who helped organise this event, our Battle of the Bands went ahead last week in a slightly modified format. Despite the changes it was one of the best battles yet with our audiences thoroughly entertained by the talent on stage.
The battle was ultimately won by Binging who wowed the judges.
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PAT APPLICATIONS 2021 OPEN WEEK 5
From the start of Week 5 we will be accepting applications for our Performing Arts Tuition Program. Applications can be made via the College website:
Please note: Existing enrolments from 2020 (excluding Animi, Year 3 Strings and Mini Musos) will automatically roll over into the new year. Should you not wish for your child to continue, please complete a cancellation form:
Whilst Animi is not continuing, the College will be offering a Dance Class run by Miss Lucy Hourn for Year 1 – 3. Any students wishing to participate will need to complete a new enrolment.
Cilla Scott Head of Arts
Sports
Champion of Champions Futsal
Last week St Andrews was represented by four teams in the Champion of Champions Futsal Titles. Congratulations to the 16 boys, 16 girls, 14 boys and 13 boys teams who all competed extremely well on the day. Due to COVID-19 this was the final Championship event of the year, meaning the quality of competition was high, and to be honest a real pleasure to watch. The skills on display by all students was outstanding. A special mention must go to the 16 boys team who just missed out on progressing to the grand final after a 2-0 loss in the semi-finals. Layla A demonstrated incredible commitment to St Andrews Futsal representing the 13 boys, 14 boys and 16 girls in goals. Much appreciation must be expressed to both Mr Tanguy and Mr McGilveray for their time dedicated to both early morning trainings and long tournament days.
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Junior School Futsal Competition
Futsal concluded for 2020 this week with the Champion of Champions competition. Four Junior School teams qualified for the Championships which is an incredible achievement. Our 11 Years Boys team placed 1st and our 10 Years Boys Blue were very close, being knocked out in extra time in the Semi Finals. Congratulations to all students and staff on their wonderful efforts and achievements at Futsal this year!
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Community
Parents and Friends Association
Hello from your friendly P&F team,
By now you would have received your raffle ticket books. Anyone over 18 will be able to purchase tickets at $5.00 a ticket, so we are really hoping everyone is able to get on board and sell tickets to family, friends, work colleagues … anyone!!
First prize is $3,000 cash or one of child’s annual school fees for 2021!
Second prize is $2,000 cash or half of your child’s 2021 school fees.
Third prize is $1,000 cash or quarter of your child’s 2021 school fees.
Term and conditions will apply.
For the grade that sells the most raffle tickets there will also be a surprise at the end of the term. If you need more raffle ticket books just send your child to Junior School Administration or Main Administration to collect.
Today the P&F celebrated World Staff Day with all teachers and staff at the College by giving all staff members a drink of their choice and a slice.
We hope you can join us at the AGM on Wednesday, 4 November at 6:30pm in the J Block Lighthouse Boardroom. This AGM is where we vote for next year’s P&F. If you would like to nominate please contact pandf@salc.qld.edu.au we will send you out the form.
If you have any questions that you would like to raise at the AGM, please feel free to contact the P&F pandf@salc.qld.edu.au.
We look forward to an amazing community raffle this term!
