Compass No 723 - May 2024

If you had to sum up what Pacific is all about, what would it be? What is at the core of the College?

For me, one of the most impactful things that I have always loved about Pacific is the value that the College places on the importance of serving others. Ever since I started working here in 2004, service has always been as a core part of our community ethos. This commitment to service is evident in our day-to-day interactions, where students and staff support and care for one another, creating an environment of mutual respect and kindness. It extends to larger initiatives as well, such as our active participation in the Red Shield Appeal, where we come together to raise funds for those in need, and our involvement with the Disabled Surfers Association, where we help provide joy and a sense of accomplishment to individuals with disabilities.

Genuine acts of service are not performed with the expectation of receiving anything in return. Rather, they are expressions of our desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. This selfless attitude towards service is perfectly captured in John 13:1-15, where Jesus washes His disciples’ feet. On the night before His crucifixion, Jesus, knowing His time was near, chose to demonstrate the full extent of His love by performing this humble act. In doing so, He set a powerful example for us to follow.

Jesus’ act of washing the feet of His disciples, a task reserved for the lowest of servants, underscores the importance of humility and selflessness in service. He told His disciples, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:15). This directive is clear: we are to serve others as Jesus did, without seeking recognition or reward.

In our school community, whether through small daily gestures of kindness or larger organised events, we are embodying the spirit of Christ’s service. Volunteering for special events is one way we can follow Jesus’ example by meeting the needs of others. In fact, Christ’s love and service to others is seen from the big gestures through to the most seemingly insignificant acts of kindness in our daily interactions with each other. 

True service is about putting others’ needs before our own, just like Jesus did on a daily basis throughout his ministry. It is about following Jesus’ example of humility and love, creating a ripple effect of kindness and compassion in our community. In doing so, we honour Christ’s teaching and imitate His love in the world, enabling us to be able to have a positive impact on each other’s lives in all that we do.

And that is what Pacific has always been about, to me.

Red Shield Appeal:

Thank you to all those who have brought in donations for the Salvation Army this year already. A reminder to all families that the Red Shield Appeal has been running throughout the month of May and is quickly wrapping up. Our final date for collection is on Monday!

So far, we have collected a good amount of donations for people in need, from the generosity of the Pacific community. However, we are still a long way off what we usually manage to collect. It would be great to see the library foyer area packed with non-perishable items, ready to donate to the Salvation Army again this year. We are having one final push and asking for any final donations to be brought in on Monday morning and dropped off in the library foyer area. In 2022, we managed to collect enough items that averaged out to be the equivalent of 3 items per student in the College. That is an amazing effort, and we would like to at least match that again this year!

Students in the Middle and Senior College were given a red ribbon to attach to their bags to serve as a reminder to bring in a few non-perishable items to donate to the RED SHIELD APPEAL. All contributions will be greatly appreciated. It is not too late!

Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain

Growing Year 9 and Year 12 House Captains’ Roles and Responsibilities to include supporting the Pastoral Care of their peers.

A priority focus this year has been on growing the role of Year 12 and Year 9 House Captains, with responsibilities stemming further than just growing culture and spirit to developing pastoral care, worship and peer mentoring across each House group.  Heads of House have worked with a strategic vision of enhancing the College’s 6-12 Pastoral Care Program, with an emphasis on growing student agency to lead, collaborate and support other students within their PCG. The strategic intents of ‘enhancing co-agency of students and staff within pastoral care to support students to develop self-awareness, efficacy, purpose, belonging and meaning’, as well as ‘enhancing opportunities for student leadership, where they are able to grow their leadership across all dimensions of College life’ have driven this focus across the four Houses, with resounding success.

This Wednesday, the Year 12 and Year 9 House Captains across each of the four Houses of Bula, Buran, Mumba and Wira capably led a chapel service on the theme having a ‘Sense of Purpose’ and linked to the bible reading from 1 Timothy 4:6-13  Youth can do it (ESV)

Two important questions raised within the chapel services that sparked collaborative discussion and opportunities for individual reflection included:

1.   What things matter to you? How can you develop your talents, pursue your dreams?

2.   What gives life meaning?

Through continuing the theme from Wednesday’s Chapel Services, during PCG time, students had opportunity to create a list of 5 things that they were passionate about and then shared this with their peers. Students were given further opportunity to extend on their thinking about how young people can take up opportunities to explore and develop their talents and interests with the purpose of growing their sense of purpose and belonging.

House Chapels and PCG devotions, led by Year 9 and Year 12 House Captains have been received very well from students across Years 6-12, as they can see the relevance of the Chapel’s theme and bible reading to apply to their own lives.

Year 9 and Year 12 House Captains have had a busy week of leadership, encouraging participation, spirit and enthusiasm at the Year 7-12 Athletics Carnival on Thursday 23rd May, held at the University of the Sunshine Coast.  Although these carnivals have a strong focus on individual effort and achievement, the House Captains play an integral role in bringing together students with a common sense of purpose and sense of belonging.  From deafening war cries, individual encouragement and support offered, the House Captains did an amazing job of solidifying culture and community.  It would be remiss not to acknowledge the ongoing behind the scenes coaching, mentorship, support and encouragement of the House Captains provided by the four Heads of House, Ms Bancks, Mrs Croke, Mr Cummins and Mr Danzey.  A great achievement and fun day was had by all.

Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Students

To create powerful learning experiences that prepare students for the future, we must give them agency over their learning. Greater agency leads to more engaged, confident, and capable students who are ready to succeed in an ever-changing world. 

Given the learning expectations that teachers need to fulfill each year, it can be hard to see how giving students more voice and freedom of choice is possible with so much content to teach. However, there are ways to build student agency, starting small and expanding as both teachers and students get more comfortable with this approach to teaching and learning.

At Pacific allowing students to choose how they will demonstrate their knowledge or understanding is one important aspect of agency. Before offering students choice, it is crucial that we help them reflect on how they learn best. They need the background knowledge and information to make informed choices, especially if greater agency is something they don’t have much experience with.

We ask students to reflect on how they like to take in new information—do they like to read, listen to audio, watch videos, etc.? Helping them understand how they learn best can guide them in how to demonstrate their knowledge in the classroom. We also know that it’s helpful for students to see examples of past work to spark their creativity, so they know what’s possible.

Giving students agency in how they will be assessed is another important way to build their confidence and help them understand their strengths. Giving students clear expectations and communicating how they will be assessed sets them up for success in both self-reflection and giving and receiving feedback.

Helping students develop greater self-awareness around their learning strengths and challenges is a crucial aspect of building agency. Students should have an accurate picture of where they are on their learning journey and what steps they need to take next.

When students know their strengths and areas of growth, this gives them the power and confidence to direct their own learning. They have a clear idea of where they are and a vision for their future. Self-reflection is a skill that can be practiced, and one that students will use throughout their lives. 

Greater agency in the classroom is the starting point for helping our students become independent, successful adults who actively work to make the world a better place. Students who take ownership of their learning develop the confidence, strength, and self-awareness to succeed in their future careers.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Learning K-5

Trade Taster Program

Get a taste for a future trades career while you're still at school. TAFE Queendland’s popular Trade and Skill Taster programs will be returning in Term 3 at their Nambour campus.  It is for eligible high school students to try a course without committing to a full qualification or apprenticeship. This lets students find out if a course is the right option or test out a potential career path they are considering following in the future.

Applications are now opening on Monday 27th May 2024, save the date to avoid missing out.

To find out what is offered and to apply, please go to Pathways once applications are open. The application code is TQEC24TT3.  Please note all students that were on a waitlist for Term 2 will need to apply again.

Any questions please visit Mr Learoyd, Head of Vocation and Training, Careers and VET Office, Library.

 

Tertiary Open Days and Career Expositions

Queensland Police Service | Open Day – Brisbane- Saturday July 20th, 2024

Join us on July the 20th, at our QPS Open Day to learn all about a career with the Queensland Police Service.

Take this rare opportunity to check out our state-of-the-art training facilities and chat with our specialist units like the Dog Squad, Road Policing Command, Dive Squad, Mounted Unit, Stock Squad, PolAir and many many more.

Policing can be a lifelong career with many different pathways, so take your time touring our training facility, driver training track and firearms range, and drop in to an information session throughout the day where you can ask questions about your future career.

Find out more

 

UniSC | Open Day 2024- July 21st to August 4th

University of the Sunshine Coast Open Day is all about welcoming community and future students on to campus to check out UniSC’s program offerings, meet staff and explore UniSC’s world class teaching and learning facilities.

Moreton Bay campus- Sunday 21st July

Sunshine Coast campus- Sunday 4th August

Find out more

 

Bond University | Open Day 2024- Saturday July 27th

Open Day is the perfect way to learn more about everything a university has to offer – whether that’s done through meeting students and academics, roaming our beautiful campus, or even testing out our facilities.

Find out more

QUT | Open Day 2024- Sunday July 28th

Come and explore the amazing facilities at Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove and see for yourself what makes the Queensland University of Technology, the university for the real world.

Find out more

 

CQUni | Open Days 2024- August 3rd to August 22nd

Explore our Central Queensland University facilities and learn about your study options direct from our supportive staff. Our Open Day events are held across July and August at our regional campus locations.

• Get your questions answered: We’re a friendly and passionate bunch who take the time to explain the nitty-gritty of starting study. Ask us about your pathway options, fees, scholarships, and get support with your application. 

• Start planning your future: With both TAFE and university study options available, we’ll help you discover your dream course. You’ll even get the opportunity to speak with our teachers about work placements, graduate outcomes, and career opportunities.

• Experience campus life: Step onto our vibrant campuses and soak in the atmosphere. From relaxed student spaces to cutting-edge facilities, you’ll feel right at home.

Mackay Open Day

Saturday 3rd August, 9-11am

Bundaberg Open Day

Thursday 8th August, 4- 6pm

Rockhampton Open Day

Sunday 18th August, 9am- 12pm

Gladstone Open Day

Thursday 22nd August, 4- 6pm

Find out more

 

UQ | Open Day 2024- August 4th to August 18th

We can’t wait to welcome you to Open Day at University of Queensland’s St Lucia and Gatton campuses. Explore your interests and study options, immerse yourself in university life and get answers to all your questions.

What to expect:

• Attend sessions to uncover your study area of interest and find out more about the degrees we offer.

• Enter a competition, grab some freebies, listen to live music, get hands-on in a workshop or come on a tour.

• Get to know UQ. Ask current students and teachers all your questions and find out about student life.

St Lucia campus Open Day

Sunday 4th August, 9am–3pm

Gatton campus Open Day

Sunday 18th August, 9am–3pm

Find out more

 

SCU | Open Days 2024- August 4th to August 18th

Want to check out Southern Cross University campuses in person? Come to our Open Days at the Gold Coast, Northern Rivers, and Coffs Harbour campuses in August 2024:

•  Gold Coast Campus – Sunday, August 18

Find out more

Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development

Throughout 2024 we are working closely with The Resilience Project to support the wellbeing of our school community. Students in Years 6 – 9 are participating in this program as part of their Personal Development program each week. The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs and provides evidence-based, practical strategies to build resilience.

Our Partnership Program consists of online presentations and weekly lessons for students, professional development for staff, and Parent & Carer Hub (inc. digital presentations) for our parent and carer community.

Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing the Parent & Carer Hub with you. The videos are 5-10 minutes long and will walk through the key pillars of resilience: Gratitude, Empathy, and Mindfulness. You will hear stories and be introduced to activities to show how these strategies can support our kids' learning and development and support you as parents and carers.

This program is an important part of our school’s effort to look after the mental health of our community.

Part 1: Meet Hugh and learn about The Resilience Project https://theresilienceproject.com.au/2023-parent-carer-hub-inspire-hugh/In this presentation, Hugh shares a personal experience about his sister's battles with Mental Illness.

Note: This video contains a story about an Eating Disorder that may be triggering. Please consider this before watching. For mental health resources and support information, visit The Resilience Project’s Support Page. We will be in touch over the next few weeks to share the remainder of the program, including research and wellbeing activities to integrate into day-to-day life.

Be kind to yourself and others!

Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Support

The Uniform Shop stocks all the College’s Winter Uniform requirements.

All students in Year 10-12 require the Formal Blazer for Winter.  Male students require trousers, belt, and tie.  A trouser and blouse option is available for Female students if they would like. Micro-fibre tights are also available for winter in addition to the dress.

Middle College (Years 6-9) Male Students need to wear a tie with the winter uniform. 

Junior college students can purchase the V-neck knitted jumper to wear with their Formal Uniform.  Trousers are available for male and female students as well as ribbed tights to wear with the dress (only) for female students. Sports jackets and tracksuit pants are available to purchase to wear with the sports uniform only.

For Prep Students, the sports jackets and tracksuit pants are available for purchase. These are worn with the sports uniform from Prep to Year 12.

Please see the College Uniform Guide here for more information.

If you have any questions regarding the Winter Uniform requirements, please contact Peta King at the Uniform Shop via the number below.

The Uniform Shop opening hours are:

Monday – Thursday 8.00am – 10.30am

Tuesday Afternoon from 2.00pm – 4.00pm

Please contact the College’s Main Reception on 5436 7300 to make an appointment.

Flexischools orders are also available for your Uniform needs. These orders are completed Monday - Thursday and delivered to the students’ classrooms in the Foundation and Junior College and to the PCG pigeonholes in the Wellbeing Centre for Middle and Senior College students. Please ensure ordered uniforms are collected promptly to ensure that they do not go missing.

 

Secondhand Uniforms

To Sell

Current Uniforms will be accepted, except for; sports uniforms (polo and shorts), socks, swimwear, and shoes. Blazers are accepted with a current dry-cleaning receipt attached. Clothes must be freshly laundered, in good condition and free of pet hair.

Items will not be accepted if they are faded, or have; thin fabric, visible repairs, stains (including underarm sweat stains), worn patches and fraying hems/sleeves, broken zippers/buttons, and rips or tears. Uniforms that are not accepted may be discarded at the discretion of the Uniform Shop.

Please label items, place in zip lock bags and deliver to the Uniform Shop when open. Payment details: The Uniform Shop will provide payment via your school fee statement at the end of each term when items have been sold. A 50% fee of the sale price of each item will apply to cover school administration costs.

To Buy

Prices and stock vary on condition and on what items are available. Please make an appointment to come in and view secondhand items.

 

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Convenor

Coffee & Chat – come and say ‘Hi’ to find out about Friends of Pacific

Date & Time: Friday, 24th May @ 8:00am-8:20am

Location: Coral Café

FoP Community Levy

During the Friends of Pacific Annual General Meeting, held on 20th February 2024, it was raised and collectively agreed upon to introduce a community levy. The purpose of this community levy is to help contribute to initiatives that enhance the school experience for students, staff, and guests. This year’s levy will go towards funding the large screen which will be installed in the new gym. The levy will be included in the school fees at a charge of $20 per semester per family.

 DATE CLAIM:

Friends of Pacific Trivia Night - Friday 16th August – this will be a great night filled with laughter and friendship for music lovers. More information to follow in coming weeks.

Volunteer Opportunity:

Working Group for Trivia Night – Friday 16th August - this will be a lot of fun, so lock it in your calendars!

Volunteers are needed for organising this great event – from sponsorships, sourcing prizes, theme /decorations. We will also require more volunteers on the night and will call for these later in the year.

https://volunteersignup.org/KMQEM

Gala Day – Thursday, 6th June 2024

Pacific’s 2nd Gala Day is being held Thursday, 6th June and we are seeking Volunteers for our BBQ.

If you can assist for 1-2 hours, we would really appreciate you registering below.

https://volunteersignup.org/Q97QT

Thanks again to our wonderful Volunteers at the Senior Athletics Carnival – we could not support or students, staff, and parents without their help.

Haven’t completed you Volunteering Training at Pacific yet and want to help us in our upcoming event!!!! Don’t worry it is quick and easy. This year, the College has streamlined the induction process by using a flexible delivery platform where volunteers work through the Volunteer Handbook, complete an electronic form, and upload relevant documentation. The Volunteer Handbook is accessible via the parent portal in Navigator - Nav Community Links.

If you have ever thought about volunteering or becoming a part of Friends of Pacific, now is the time. There are so many exciting events on the 2024 calendar, the more volunteers we have will ensure their success. Any questions please feel free to contact the Committee – fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Hosting events is only possible thanks to the efforts of those in our College community who give so generously of their time.

Have you heard about Pacific Together?

Pacific Together is a care-based service offered by Friends of Pacific to College families in times of need. If you, or someone you know within our College community, needs extra support during the year, the Pacific Together care group may be able to help in some small way or offer a care package. Please contact our Chaplain Mr Mark Hauser- mhauser@pacluth.qld.edu.au .

If you would like to support the continuation of the care-based service through a financial contribution, we invite you to contact Pacific Together via email: fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Ms Jan Watman, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

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 can meet together each week for worship. As we do this, there are still physical distancing, and hygiene requirements we need to follow 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)

May

23       Years 7-12 Athletics Carnival

28       Instrumental Tutor’s Concert

29-30  District Secondary Athletics

30       District Primary Athletics

30       Instrumental Tutor’s Concert

31       Caloundra Show Day

31       Intermediate Schools Cup Volleyball

 

June

3-5      Year 8-9 Middle College Exams

3-7      Year 10 Exams

6         Years 4 – 6 SCISSA Gala Day 2

11       Year 11 2025 QCE Information Evening

14-16  Year 12 Retreat

18       K-3 Colour Splash

18       Friends of Pacific Meeting

19       K-12 Chapel

19       P-2 Cross Country

19       Ensembles Concert

19       Term 2 Concludes