Compass No. 629 November 2021

The thread for this week, interpersonal competence, is very appropriate for this time of the school year. The Year 12s are finishing in two weeks’, Year 10 and Middle College students are getting ready for exams, Junior and Foundation College students are looking forward to the end of year celebrations. In the midst of this activity, students get tired, staff have limited time to complete all their tasks, and we start to plan to do it all over again next year. It takes a lot of strength of character and interpersonal awareness to finish the school year well. It takes great courage to show grace to others when we are under pressure.

We can do with some ongoing practice when it comes to our interpersonal skills. Meeting people, maintaining friendships and relationships, and living peacefully with one another when we are stressed are some aspects of this thread. We cannot assume that children and young people are automatically skilled and naturally mature in these things. Many people pick up interpersonal skills by watching significant others such as parents, older students, and staff members relate to one another. Our student leaders and senior students play an essential role in modelling these interpersonal skills for the rest of the student body. Big people do not always realize the impact that they can have on influencing little people. At Pacific, students are blessed with opportunities to connect with, mentor and serve younger students. Our Year 12s have their Year 2 buddies, our Year 9 leaders visit the Kindy kids at our Early Learning Centre and our Year 5s have Prep buddies. These interpersonal competencies can flourish when students are encouraged to engage with younger students.

We pray; Thank you God for our senior students and leaders. Bless them with an awareness of their effect on the lives of other students. Give them, and all of us, as we approach the end of year, grace under pressure, forgiveness when hurt, rest when tired. Thank you for the many blessings our College community has experienced with the Year 12 cohort. May the legacy they have left for our school continue to bring blessings to the students of Pacific. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Pastor Tim Jarick, College Pastor

I wonder how familiar our Pacific community is with the following statement, ‘a change is as good as a holiday’?

Growing up as a small child, I must confess I displayed a sense of caution when confronted with anything new or unfamiliar. However, I also had an insatiable appetite to understand and to deal with changing circumstances and situations. We are blessed at Pacific to have students who are curious, creative, and caring individuals. Equally, we are grateful for the staff who create a learning environment that promotes deep and critical thinking, collaboration and entrepreneurialism.

Of course, it is also an aspect of growing up that we seek the familiar, and safety of the known. The challenge really though is being comfortable with the uncomfortable. Over many months now we have supported one another through the dynamics of change and that which at the start has seemed uncomfortable. Change is good, and necessary for growth and at an individual level I encourage students to accept that change is a natural part of life.

Often, it is taking the big leap into the unknown or unfamiliar that is the biggest challenge. Action for Happiness is a collective of like-minded individuals who develop calendars that focus on different elements of supporting wellbeing. This month I encourage families to discuss the opportunities that New Ways November offers each day and commit to actioning one of these new ideas. Further information may be found at the following, Action for Happiness.

Ponytail Project

There was great energy and joy in the Gymnasium this week as many students from Middle and Senior College supported the young women who took part in the Ponytail Project.

Whilst the money raised by the PLC team, including staff member Mrs Wendy Wescombe, was absolutely incredible - over $5000 for the Cancer Council, the importance of raising awareness for such an important cause cannot be overlooked.

I thank Ms Leigh Finter for her support and management of the event and to Jasmin Groves (Year 11 Wira), for providing the leadership required to generate such momentum. If the support from community, family and friends is anything to go by, I am confident that this initiative will continue for years to come. I thank Edwina Lal, Owner and Hair Stylist of Forestry Hair, for supporting the girls with her expertise.

Annie

We wish all cast members and crew, well, as they prepare for the upcoming performances of Annie, the Junior musical for 2021. The journey for the students from Years 4 through to 8, has been one filled with plenty of excitement, energy, and laughs. I thank Mrs Kristy Astwick for her leadership and to all the staff involved in preparing the young people for the shows. I look forward to witnessing the many professionals on stage as they display their various talents.

Holiday camps

Lutheran Youth Queensland (LYQ) has a long history with not only the College, but also in hosting Holiday Camps for young people. LYQ will be running four camps over the summer. There is a Senior (Years 7 -12) and Junior (Years 3-6) ‘Blast’ camps, as well as a Summer Kids Camp. You are invited to explore the details of the camps and to register at either of the links, Summer Kids Years 3-6 or Senior or Junior Blast camp.

Mr Ben Ryan, Director of Students

Over the course of this term’s Junior Assemblies, we have been continuing to explore social and emotional blockers. This connects well with the thread for the next two weeks across the college. The notion of interpersonal competence and how we appear and interact with those around us is a crucial understanding for our young people to understand. Our emotions play an important part in our capacity to cope with challenges and maintain positive connections with people.

Connected to this message, is the story of ourselves. Through our choices, actions and words we are writing stories of the people we are or want to be and providing a book for others to read. When we meet others, our body language, eye contact and personal presence inform those around us about where we are positioned emotionally.

Recently, our Year 3s, 4s and 5s, were privileged to be an audience for a visiting production called “Three Magic Words”. The shows premise surrounded the impact that words can have on others and the negativity that can be promoted by neglecting to include the three magic words. Ultimately, the students learnt the power of “please, thank you and I’m sorry” and the magical powers they hold.

When we are kind to others with our words and actions, we are writing a story that others view positively. When we back our words with choices that match, we are continuing to build our personal story. This message is summed up by the quote “Our words tell the story and our actions tell the truth.’ When we err or damage relationships, our trust in God helps us understand our choices and redeem our story in the eyes of others

Year 9 Street Art Installation

At the beginning of the year, I was approached by the Head or Visual Arts, Mrs Denise McMahon to provide a theme for a street art project that the Year 9 students would drive. Our You Can Do It themes of emotional regulation, achievement, meaning and relationships have provided the inspiration for the students who have produced a vibrant art piece encapsulating the themes that permeate our Junior College. We thank the art department and students for the invitation to be part of this project.

Remembrance Day Chapel

Next Thursday as a nation, we will stop and commemorate Remembrance and the significance it has played in the history of modern Australia. During Friday’s Junior Chapel, we will remember the men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of others. All parents are welcome to attend this event.

Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Students P-5

The Hotel School still has some Commonwealth-funded places available in their February 2022 intake of the Bachelor of Business in Hotel Management. Students who are intending to do a Business degree next year and are interested in the Hospitality and Tourism industry should consider this as an attractive option. Students at The Hotel School receive an internationally-recognised business degree, and paid internships at top Hotels are included in their degree program, so they graduate with industry experience. For more information go to www.hotelschool.scu.edu.au

Calling all Climate Change Advocates (Year 11)

Year 11 students are invited to complete an exclusive Climate Change and Law experience presented by Bond University on Saturday, 20 November. 
This course is for ambitious Year 11 students looking to get ahead in their Year 12 studies, and in university.

The Learning Experience:

• An immersive on-campus experience designed to enhance knowledge of climate change and law 
• Learn from pre-eminent professors, including the Executive Dean of Bond’s Faculty of Law 
• Build skills in climate change law and advocacy ahead of your final year of high school 
• Gain an authentic university learning experience 
• Receive a certificate of achievement for your studies to contribute to your portfolio

Event Details:

Three interactive learning modules to be completed online before attending the on-campus workshop. Course fee is $50 which includes access to course content, completion certificate, morning tea and lunch.
 

Saturday, 20 November, Bond University, 9am - 2pm  
REGISTER NOW - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/

Upcoming Defence Force Recruiting events (Years 9-12)

Registrations are essential for all of the following events. To register for a session visit www.defencejobs.gov.au/events.

ADF Careers Day

Saturday 6th November, 9:00am – 2:00pm at Sunshine Coast Airport – Friendship Ave, Marcoola

Women in Defence - Careers & Coffee

Monday 8th November, 4:30pm – 6:30pm at CK Wholefoods - Maroochydore Homemaker Centre - 11/55 Maroochydore Blvd, Maroochydore

Defence Careers Information Session (New Year, New Career)

Thursday 18th November, 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Rumba Resort – 10 Leeding Terrace, Caloundra

Caboolture: A Night in The Army Reserve

Tuesday 30th November, 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Caboolture Army Reserve Depot, 13 Concorde Place, Caboolture​

Aviation Australia Open Day (Years 9-12)

The aviation industry is experiencing a severe shortage of skills. As we continue to open up and increase our domestic and international flights the industry desperately needs a passionate and well-trained aviation workforce to support aircraft maintenance and flight safety. 

Aviation Australia invites you to their Open Day on Saturday 20th November to learn about the opportunities available. Take a free tour of their Brisbane campus: their expert team will guide you through their Engineering hangars, Flight Safety Facility (Cabin Crew training) and a drone racing demonstration. You can also learn about all their course offerings for 2022 and the career opportunities that each will open for you.

There are three session times available, each session will be 1 hour:

Session 1: 8:30am - 9:30am

Session 2: 9:30am - 10:30am

Session 3: 10:30am - 11:30am 

For more information, or to register, go to https://www.eventbrite.com.au/

Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development 

To parent effectively, it’s not enough to simply avoid the obvious dangers like abuse, neglect, or overindulgence. Indeed, The National Academy of Sciences delineates four major responsibilities for parents: maintaining children's health and safety, promoting their emotional well-being, instilling social skills, and preparing children intellectually.

Numerous studies suggest that the best-adjusted children are reared by parents who find a way to combine warmth and sensitivity with clear behavioural expectations. Parents may find the Four C’s to be a helpful acronym: care (showing acceptance and affection), consistency (maintaining a stable environment), choices (allowing the child to develop autonomy), and consequences (applying repercussions of choices, whether positive or negative). For more information click on the link https://www.psychologytoday.com/au/basics/parenting

Mrs Annie Williams College Counsellor 

Just a reminder that the specially marked car park space in the junior car park is reserved for our recent auction winner. Please do not park in this bay. We thank you all for supporting us in this.

Pacific Together

Pacific Together is a discrete helping-hand offered by Friends of Pacific, in conjunction with Pastor Tim, for College families in times of need. 

If you or someone you know within our College community needs extra support anytime during the year, the Pacific Together care group may be able to help in some small way or offer a care package in times of need.

We invite you to contact Pastor Tim Jarick or Pacific Together via FoP email: fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Quote of the Week

“Among the things you can give and still keep are your word, a smile, and a grateful heart.”  ~ Zig Ziglar.

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Jenny Lee, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

The Uniform Shop is open every morning from now until Friday 26th November.  Please book an appointment with Reception to get your uniform needs for next year. 

Remember if you have a student transitioning from Prep to Grade 1 or Grade 5 to Grade 6 you will need to look at purchasing Formal Uniforms. Students going from Grade 9 to Grade 10 will need Blazers for Rite Journey on 25th November.  Boys will need trousers for Closing service and Girls will require the dual coloured tie for Grade 10.

Girls Shorts have arrived and are available to purchase in store.  These pair with the Formal Blouse and are for wear in the school setting only.

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Shop

SCSS Basketball

Congratulations to the Int A Girls, Int C Girls Blue, Int D Boys, Int D Girls and the Jnr D and E Boys teams who have qualified for the Semi Finals on Friday night. It is fantastic to have such a strong showing of PLC teams in finals. Well done students and coaches!

29/10 Results

Team	Opposition	Results
Int A Girls	Unity	16	47	Loss
Int A Girls	GSLC	28	36	Loss
Int C Blue Girls	GSLC	36	12	Win
Int D Girls	CCPS	29	17	Win
Int D Boys	Suncoast	44	21	Win
Int E  Boys	SCGS	28	44	Loss
Int F Boys	MFAC	15	36	Loss

SCISSA Soccer

It was a strong week for our soccer teams with our boys fighting it out in a tough draw whilst being one player down. Our girls continued their strong campaign with a great offensive effort at home against GSLC.

Intermediate A Boys:   PLC 0  MFAC 0  MVP: Alexander Lee

Intermediate B Girls:    PLC 7  GSLC 0  MVP: Zaida Williams

SCISSA Rugby

We had 3 of our 4 Rugby 7s teams compete in the SCISSA Rugby 7’s Semi Finals on Wednesday night. Our teams competed admirably, but were unable to grab a spot in the gold medal matches. Congratulations to the 13 boys and 14 girls for winning their bronze medal matches on the night. Thank you to all students, coaches and parents for their support during this season and I look forward to another memorable season in 2022.

Team	Game 1	Game 2
13 Boys	PLC 5 SCGS 25	PLC 25 GSLC 7
14 Boys	PLC 14 SAAC 22	PLC 15 ILC 20
14 Girls	PLC 5 NCC 14	PLC 20 SCGS 10
16 Girls	PLC 10 MFAC 21

 

Club Sport News

Congratulations to Tom Chessel and Kai Pethick for their selection in the Sunshine Coast Region Baseball Team.

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport 

Thank you to all who celebrated with us at our 2021 Pacific FC Presentations last Saturday. In our 20th year we congratulated:

• 170 players from 15 U6-teams U6-U16
• 35 coaches, managers and helpers
• 13 x 5-year players
• 5 x 10-year players
• 1 x 15-year player/coach
• Best and Fairest nominations
• 2 x 5-year volunteers
• 2 x Perpetual Cup Winners
• Canteen volunteers
• Fair Play Winners
• Representative players
• Our U11 Premiers, U14 Plate Finalists, U15 Plate Runners Up and U16 Champions
• Our 2021 Committee

Click here to see the awards and presentation photos.

Follow our Insta and Facebook pages to see all the action.

Mrs Rita Williams, Pacific FC President

Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College

“Growing in faith and sharing God’s love with others”

Weekly worship services are held at 14 Bombala Terrace Caloundra at 9.00am. We are thankful that we are able to meet together each week for worship. As we do this, there are still physical distancing, signing in, and hygiene requirements we need to follow in order to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community.

Our worship services are intergenerational with a blend of traditional and contemporary.

You’re welcome to follow us on Facebook and visit our Church webpage.

All are welcome at any of our services.

Pastor Ray Morris, St Mark’s Lutheran Church (0429 856 532 or lutherancaloundra@gmail.com)

4          Year 4-6 SCISSA Gala Day 4

5-6       Junior Musical

10        Year 5-6 Multi Instrumental Concert (2-3pm)

            ELC New Families Evening

            STEM and IT Showcase

12-18   Year 10 Exams commence

15        Year 3-4 Strings Concert (2.15-3pm)

16        Year 12 External Assessment Concludes

16-18   Year 12 Alternate Days

18        Year 4-6 Sports Awards (12-1pm)

            Year 7-12 Sports Awards (2.15-3.15pm)

            Year 12 Graduation – Venue 114

19        Year 12 Farewell Chapel (8.30am)

            Year 12 Formal (5pm)

23        Year 10 Leadership Day 2

25        Year 9 Rite Journey Homecoming (5pm)

26        K-5 Carols Evening (5pm)

29        P-5 Closing Service

30        Year 6-11 Closing Service

            Academic Year Concludes