Compass No 733 - August 2024

"Listen, my children, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding." (Proverbs 4:1, NIV)

Proverbs is such a wonderful book of the Bible, filled with wise statements about how to best live our lives. In Proverbs 4:1-13, it highlights the important responsibility parents have in guiding their children with wisdom and love. This passage emphasises the importance of listening to a father’s instruction and gaining understanding—a timeless reminder that your role in your children’s lives is crucial, especially when it comes to their education.

As parents, you are not just caretakers or providers; you are their first teachers. The wisdom you share with them, the values you instil, and the example you set all play a significant role in shaping your child’s future. Your involvement in their schooling is one of the most practical and impactful ways this role can be fulfilled.

However, over all of this, the foundation of all this wisdom and guidance is God's love for us. Just as God loves us and wants the best for us, so too should we approach our role as parents—with love that mirrors His. Every time you help with homework, discuss their day, or attend school events, you're not just showing your care for their education; you're reflecting God’s unconditional love for them. These acts of involvement send a powerful message to your children: that their education matters, that they are not alone in their journey, and that they are deeply loved by both you and God.

Proverbs 4:13 says, "Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life." This verse challenges parents to ensure that the instruction your children receive is something they value and hold onto. It’s not just about academic knowledge, but about the wisdom rooted in God’s love that will guide them through life’s challenges and decisions.

A parent’s involvement in schooling is an opportunity to impart this wisdom. When we take the time to explain a difficult concept, discuss a moral lesson, or simply listen to their concerns, we are doing more than helping them succeed in school—we are helping them build a strong foundation for their lives, grounded in the love and wisdom of God.

We must also remember that our children are watching us! The way we prioritize education, handle challenges, and approach learning will greatly influence how they view these things. By being actively involved in their schooling, we model the importance of lifelong learning, moral integrity, and the constant love of God.

The call of Proverbs 4:1-13 is perfect for parents, as they are called to be active and engaged in their children’s education. So, keep guiding your children with wisdom, encourage them with love, and help them to hold on to the instruction that will lead them to a life of purpose and fulfillment, always rooted in the unfailing love of God.

Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain

As parents of Middle College students, you play an incredibly important role in shaping the academic success of your children. While the shift from childhood to adolescence often brings a greater sense of independence, it is crucial to remember that your involvement in your child's education is still very much needed.

One of the most effective ways to support your child’s education is through open and positive communication about their learning. Take time each day to ask your child about what they are studying in class. Show genuine interest in their assignments, projects and any challenges they might be facing. This isn’t just about monitoring their progress; it’s about fostering a home environment where learning is valued and celebrated.

When you engage in conversations about school, you signal to your child that their education matters. This positive reinforcement can boost their motivation and encourage them to take ownership of their academic responsibilities. It’s also an opportunity to link their learning to your own experiences. Share stories from your educational journey, discuss how you’ve applied what you learned in real-life situations and explore how their current studies might relate to their future goals. This can make learning more relatable and meaningful, helping them see the bigger picture of their efforts.

While it’s important to encourage your child to do their best, it’s equally crucial to set realistic and healthy expectations. Middle College students are navigating a demanding curriculum and striking the right balance between challenging them and supporting them is key.

Active parental involvement in education is linked to a host of positive outcomes for students. Research consistently shows that students with engaged parents tend to achieve higher grades, have better social skills and are more likely to pursue higher education. But beyond these measurable outcomes, your involvement helps instil in your child a lifelong love of learning and a strong sense of self-efficacy.

As your child continues their journey through Middle College, remember that your role as a parent is not just to support them, but to inspire them.

Mr Brett Kersnovske, Head of Middle College Students

Collaborating with compassion.

Over the last two weeks, our nation has been transfixed as the Olympics has once again captivated our nation. We have marvelled at the athletes’ skill levels and the backstory of individuals and of nations. What is always evident in any high-level tournament is the level of collaboration and teamwork necessary for any given team to succeed at a high level.

 At this week’s assembly, we considered how we collaborate with compassion in the outdoors and how our words and actions build positivity within any group. When faced with new challenges, language and attitude inform others of our priorities for them and ourselves. Quite often, when we sense inner weakness, we deflect through unkind actions and or words. Regularly, when playing and interacting outside, young people can become fixated on their skills and individual talents rather than the competencies involved in collaboration, thinking that 90% of success is talent, 10% collaboration and hard work, or what they can do, rather than who they are. As we move through life, we know the opposite to be true.

Commitment to the cause through positive actions carries far more kudos for those around us. As our young people engage in the outdoors, in structured and unstructured experiences, we are prioritising the commitment of collaboration through positive thoughts, words and actions. By developing our individual competencies, we positively embrace the teaching embodied in our “Learning Together” pillar.

Service in action

Over the past weeks, the P-5 community has supported and been exposed to several initiatives from Middle College students involved in the Pacific Plus Extension Program. The Pacific Plus students introduced their original idea of providing travel buddies for children on extended absences due to illness or circumstances. This is an excellent example of service in action and a tangible way for our young people to see how a small action can make a big difference.  As a College, we thank the Pacific Plus team for thinking about and developing this project, and we look forward to being involved in more projects in the future.

Our Year 5 “Kids in Action” team are busy preparing their presentations for their upcoming conference. This year’s theme of HEAR on Country: Are you listening? encourages schools and their student delegates to be curious in exploring their own personal relationship and responsibility to Country and each other, to create a promise of connection and care.

The KIA team has also been responsible for forming the Environmental Eagles group, promoting the removal of rubbish and waste around the college. This group has championed the individual responsibility of all in how we dispose of our waste. It is a common sight for our Foundation and Junior students to freely give their time to eradicate waste in the college grounds.

We are looking forward to our annual book week next Monday and special thanks must go to our hardworking library team for their planning of author visits last week, and exciting activities in the library space each day this week. Thank you to the wider community for the time and effort you have invested in this day and we look forward to experiencing the many exciting costumes on the day!

Year One Excursion

This term, our Year One cohort has been investigating life in bygone eras. As part of this learning, students have been researching artefacts, toys, and clothing from yesteryear and comparing them to how these have changed into what we see and wear today. Earlier this term, the students dressed themselves to match these eras, and last Friday, as part of a lived experience, the students visited the Caboolture Historical Village, which contains many examples and experiences that have been part of the past. From all reports, the students were amazed that phones were so big and that cameras were actually a thing and not part of a device! Thank you to Year One staff for organising such a rich learning opportunity.

Attendance and student absentees

As a crucial part of the safety and well-being of students, all absences involving students require formal notification through our P-5 reception. This includes late arrivals that occur after our official commencement of school at 8:25 am. We ask that all parents and carers sign their children in after this time, and if a need arises for students to leave the campus before 3:00 pm, we ask that this procedure is also followed. The adhesion to this policy ensures we are aware of all students and their whereabouts on the college grounds.

Take care, and God Bless.

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

Welcome Pacific Pathways – New Team Member

We welcome Mrs. Colleen Beattie to the Pacific Pathways team, she brings a wealth of experience from a diverse range of industries, making her an invaluable resource for students at Pacific Lutheran College. She is currently working towards a Graduate Certificate in Career Development, Mrs. Beattie is dedicated to guiding students through their career journey, offering personalized career appointments tailored to each student's aspirations and goals.

In her role, Mrs. Beattie leads the Industry Gateway initiative at the college, fostering strong connections with the local community and opening doors for students to explore career opportunities beyond Pacific. Her efforts extend to the broader community, where she leverages her extensive network and experience to support students in becoming global citizens prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.

With a deep commitment to student success and a passion for nurturing future leaders, Mrs. Beattie, along with Mr Learoyd and Mrs Sanmarco are pivotal figures in helping students navigate their career paths and achieve their full potential.

To book an appointment with one of the team please follow the link.

Hawker Scholarship

C.A.S. Hawker Scholarships are one of the most generous privately funded scholarships available to undergraduate students in Australia. Each residential scholarship is valued at up to $75,000 over three years. The scholarships are available to all Australian students. The majority have been awarded to students entering their first year of university studies.

Selection is largely based on personal and academic qualities as well as leadership potential, demonstrated through student’s contributions made to their school and wider community.

Undergraduate Hawker Scholars can attend a range of Australian educational institutions listed on the website. Applications are submitted online, via the website. The trustees usually award up to four scholarships each year.

For more information go to the Hawker Scholarship website to read the FAQs, the ‘Apply Now’ page and other detailed information about the scholarship. Follow them on Linkedin or Facebook for application tips and alerts.

Year 12 Tertiary Application Key Dates - Reminder

It has been positive to see how proactive the Year 12 students are in submitting their Tertiary Applications. A quick reminder of the key dates are below and as well as what you should be thinking about at this stage of the year. If Mrs Beattie or I have not met with you yet to discuss your next steps we encourage you to book a time via the link.

Now                  Decide on your preferences and order

                         Create or find your Unique Student Identifier (USI)

                         Make sure you know where to find your Learner Unique Identifier (LUI)

                         Start thinking about accommodation if you are moving

1st Aug             ATAR registration and QTAC applications open

                          Most early offer applications open

                          Scholarship applications open

Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development

In our ongoing efforts to support the well-being and development of our students, it's essential to reframe how we view behaviour. Instead of seeing behaviour as purely a set of problems or disruptions, consider it as a form of communication—a valuable expression of what a child might be feeling or needing.

Children, like adults, have their own ways of expressing themselves. When a child acts out or displays challenging behaviour, it often serves as a signal that they are trying to communicate something important. This could be a need for attention, a response to stress, or a sign of confusion. Understanding behaviour as communication helps us look beyond the surface and address the root causes rather than merely managing symptoms.

For instance, when a child struggles with aggression or withdrawal, it’s easy to label these actions as problematic. However, these behaviours may indicate underlying issues such as difficulty with social interactions, a sense of inadequacy, or even a response to changes at home or school. By viewing these behaviours as messages, we can better support our children in finding healthier ways to express their emotions and needs.

Here are some practical ways to apply this perspective at home:

1. Observe and Listen: Take note of when and where certain behaviours occur. Ask your child open-ended questions to understand their feelings and experiences. This can provide insights into what might be driving their behaviour.

2. Validate Feelings: Show empathy towards your child’s emotions. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know it’s okay to express themselves, even if their method of expression needs guidance.

3. Problem-Solve Together: Work with your child to identify solutions or coping strategies. Involving them in the process helps them feel heard and valued and promotes their ability to manage their emotions effectively.

4. Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a positive and secure home environment where your child feels safe to express themselves. Consistent routines, open communication, and positive reinforcement can make a significant difference.

By viewing behaviour as a form of communication, we can adopt a more compassionate and proactive approach. This perspective not only helps us address immediate issues but also builds a foundation for stronger, healthier interactions with our children. Let’s work together to interpret our children’s actions as meaningful expressions of their inner world and support them in developing more effective ways to communicate.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in nurturing our students' growth.

Be kind to yourselves and those around you.

Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Support

VOLUNTEER CALLOUT

Maroochydore Bunnings BBQ on Saturday 24th August https://volunteersignup.org/RBX9K

Father’ s Day Stall will be held on Tuesday 27th August.

If you would like to help please register https://volunteersignup.org/78LRQ.  It is such a great event to volunteer at, seeing all the smiles and chatting to the College students.

Battle of The Bands Trivia Night - Tomorrow night is the night! Tickets can be purchased up until midday Friday.

Reminder for Bands

Come prepared for loads of laughs and fun. Gather your gold coins, you maybe able to bribe the MC, there are many games with great prizes. Decorating of tables commences at 5:30pm – you will be entertained by the College Rock Band.

You will need to bring a tablecloth, any decorations and platter or snacks to eat during the night as we will not be serving food.

NO BYO of any drinks – we have that sorted for you!

Like our Pacific Facebook page as there may be some last-minute tips or even some answers to use on the night!

BATTLE OF THE BANDS RAFFLE

Can’t join us on the night but would like to support by buying Raffle Tickets?

Funds raised from our raffle and our silent auctions will be invested back into the College community to enhance the school experience for the students, staff guests – together with our other fundraising activities we are raising funds this year for the big TV screens in the new gymnasium being built.

GET YOUR ROCKIN’ RAFFLE TICKETS HERE  for your chance to win some awesome prizes. Raffles tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20! Raffle Tickets purchased online available until midday Friday 16th August and then on the night to buy in person.

THERE ARE OVER $6,000 WORTH OF PRIZES TO BE WON!

We thank all those businesses and individuals from our community for donating towards our Battle of the Bands Trivia Night 2024 Rockin’ Raffle.

Raffle prizes will be drawn on the night of Battle of the Bands - Friday 16th August 2024.

Winners do not need to be present. Winners will be contacted by phone or email after the draw.

PRIZES TO BE WON!!!

1. Learning and Family (value $765) - One Term of Tutoring donated by NumberWorks’nWords and 1 x Family Pass to The Ginger Factory

2. Budget Booster (value $710) – $500 Visa, Pet Stock Products, Micks Meat Barn, Greensmith Grocers, Club Kawana voucher

3. Family Fun 1 (value $315) – 5 Pass Aussie World value, 1 x Child Pass Australia Zoo, Club Kawana voucher, 1 x Session Caloundra Rollerdrome and Kids Puzzles

4. Stretch and Surf (value $160) – Studio Pilates voucher, Kawana Surf Outlet voucher and Caloundra Surf School voucher

5. Going Wild (value $179) – 1 x Family Pass Wildlife HQ and Studio Pilates voucher

6. Day on the Green (value $390) – 2 x Rounds Golf at Pelican Waters Golf Club and Massage by Flirty Co

7. Working Out 2 (value $350) – 3 months Training Jett’s Birtinya and Hip Pocket Workwear voucher

8. Rattle and Yum 1 (value $140) – 1 x Adult pass Mary Valley Rattler, Junk voucher, Flirty Co and kids puzzles

AND MANY MORE

Visit (humanitix link) to see full list of prizes and further details

We can't wait to see everyone at Battle of the Bands Trivia Night, enjoying the festivities.

Thanks to our sponsors

Moffatt Beach Brewing Co are our major sponsors and will providing refreshments for sale on the night as it is a licenced event no BYO Drinks and 18yrs+ only.

Brilliance For Business, Amber Werchon, Laserzone, Jetts, NumberWordsnWorks and Gourmet Fudge Company

Ms Jan Watman, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

Competitive Sport News:

Rugby:

Congratulations to PLC students Louie McCormac, Jairus Patelesio and Hayden Cole who recently represented the Sunshine Coast District team at the U15 Rugby State Championship in Brisbane. The three boys were selected from a highly competitive trial that consisted of schools from the North Brisbane and Sunshine Coast Region, with only 23 players selected. At the state carnival they came 6th overall, from 12 regions that were represented from across QLD. It is fantastic to hear that the boys played with excellent spirit, formed good bonds with team mates and represented PLC and Sunshine Coast Rugby exceptionally.

Mr Josh Cummins, Head of Rugby

Senior Schools Cup Volleyball:

Over the weekend, we had 2 teams represent PLC at the Queensland wide Senior Schools Cup Volleyball Tournament held at the Gold Coast. Our Boys and Girls teams had been training all year to prepare for this event. Both teams performed admirably at the competition, winning their first round matches and then going down in nail biters in the second. The Senior Girls ended up 3rd in their pool and won their cross over on Saturday Night. The Senior Boys ended up 2nd and won their cross over to give them a shot at a medal match for the final day. The Senior Girls ended up 6th and the Boys 4th in their divisions after the 3 days of competition. This trip was a good finish for our Year 12 Girls players who have been playing since Year 7 and had already been on 2 representative trips beforehand. This was our Senior Boys first experience at a tournament, and they exceeded expectations playing their way into a potential medal match.

A big thank you to the staff who went with the teams, Miss Sarah Ashdown, Miss Georgie Snelling, Mr Brace and Mrs Croke. Special mention goes to Mrs Croke who continually goes above and beyond to make sure the teams are looked after down at these volleyball trips.  Preparations for our 2025 Senior Volleyball Squads are beginning soon!

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

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)

August

12-16  Science Week

16       FoP Trivia night

18-23 Yr 6 Canberra Trip

19-23  Book Week

20       Friends of Pacific

26-29  Yr 12 Mock exams

27        FoP Father’s Day stall

28          P-2 Athletics Carnival

29        Celebrating Dad’s Breakfast

30        Staff day / Student Free Day

September

2 – 6      Yr 12 Mock exams

5            Art and Film Night

5           Yr 4-6 SCISSA Gala Day 3

11-15     CBSQ Seniors Basketball

12         Senior Ensembles Concert

13         K-12 Chapel

13         Term 3 concludes

30          Staff day