Compass No 734 - August 2024

In recent years, research has confirmed that providing students with meaningful feedback can significantly enhance their learning and achievement. It has a significant influence on students' academic success. Positive feedback has the power to initiate further action, and improves both teaching and learning. Feedback and instruction are intertwined. It is as important as instruction because it gives new information about students' understanding of a fact or achievement of a skill. Feedback provides new information specifically related to the task or process of learning that fills a gap between what is understood and what is aimed to be understood. Hence, feedback is an essential part of effective learning. It helps students understand the subject better and gives them clear guidance on how to proceed with their learning. At Pacific, we strive to create a culture of feedback in many ways, including student work samples on Seesaw.

Effective feedback is:

• Constructive - relevant to the nature of the task and focused on growth in learning.

• Timely - given while the assessed work is still fresh in a student’s mind before the student moves on to subsequent tasks.

• Meaningful - is directed to the student, targets their individual needs, and is linked to learning intentions and success criteria.

From Prep to Year 5, teachers will post annotated work samples and rubrics on Seesaw for Mathematics, English, and Science this term. These samples will give parents ongoing feedback about how their child is working towards, working at, or beyond a sound standard of achievement in the curriculum- ACARA v9.

At Pacific, it is essential to understand that documentation of a representative sample of this feedback using Seesaw supports students and parents/caregivers in engaging with the learning process as it is happening.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Learning K-5

Mrs. Beattie, Mr Learoyd and Mrs Sanmarco are here to help students navigate their career paths and achieve their full potential. To book an appointment with one of the team please follow the link.

VET Qualifications – Costs

A reminder for students that choose to study multiple VET qualifications, that government funding only allows for one free course. If you are planning to undertake a 2nd or 3rd VET Qualification, it will be a fee for service arrangement. The enrolment and payment of these fees is directly arranged between the Registered Training Organisations (RTO) and the parent/guardian. Please note this does not include the Certificate II Hospitality Course delivered by PLC, however, does apply to the Certificate II Sport Coaching & Certificate III Fitness.

Please referr to the link here for funding information.

Sunshine Coast Trade Training Centre – August Information Evening and 2025 Enrolments Due

Information Evening Thursday 29th August 2024, 5:00pm – 6:00pm- First round Friday 30th August 2024

SCTTC will be hosting an information evening on Thursday 29th August at 5:00pm -6:00pm, 40 Bower Street, Caloundra. This is a good opportunity for students interested in a 2025 enrolment and their parents to tour the centre and gain an overview of the courses on offer at SCTTC. Their certificate courses provide Year 11 and 12 students with valuable skills through industry recognised practical training and work place links in their chosen field.

Certificate II Automotive Vocational Preparation

Certificate III Aviation (Remote Pilot)

Certificate I in Construction

Certificate II Electrotechnology

Certificate II Sustainable Energy

Certificate II Plumbing Services

Certificate II in Retail Cosmetics

School Holiday Programs

Griffith University | Year 12 Academic Bootcamps during School Holidays - September 16th to September 26th, 2024

Griffith’s Academic Bootcamps are highly effective four-day courses run in the September school holidays, designed to help Year 12 students achieve their full academic potential in their final external exams. They aim to improve confidence and understanding in senior science and maths subject areas, reducing anxiety around assessment and preparing students for future tertiary study.

On-campus subjects

• General Maths

• Math Methods

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Biology

• Psychology

Online subjects

• General Maths

• Maths Methods

• Chemistry

• Physics

• Biology

Find out more

The University of Queensland-UQ | InspireU STEM Camp during School Holidays - September 15th to September 20th, 2024

The InspireU STEM Camp allows Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Year 11 or 12 in 2024 to join a week-long camp to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics study options and careers. The camp is perfect for students planning on going to university to explore what degree to study and build their knowledge about university life. The program exposes you to various career and study options at UQ. You’ll be given a holistic experience of university life, which is delivered in collaboration with current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students, UQ’s faculties and industry partners. You’ll attend jam-packed, engaging sessions with a hands-on components.

You’re eligible if you:

• are of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent

• are enrolled in high school at the time of application

• are enrolled in ATAR subjects and eligible for an ATAR score

• have a school attendance rate of 90% or greater.

You will:

• participate in a week-long on-campus residential camp

• attend engaging sessions to further understand STEM disciplines

• take part in practical, hands-on experiences

• explore UQ facilities and services

• connect with current Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander university students

• meet fellow high school students.

Find out more

SAE Institute | Open Day 2024, Brisbane- August 24th, 2024

Come along to SAE’s Open Day and find your future in creative media! Open Day is your ticket to everything SAE – get a taste of our courses in workshops, explore activations on campus and get some hands-on experience with our state-of-the-art facilities.

Find out more

Whitehouse Institute of Design | Open House 2024, Brisbane- August 24th, 2024

Are you excited by design and dreaming of a creative career? Whitehouse Institute of Design, Australia invites you to Open House, a day where you can explore our courses and the endless possibilities within the world of design. Explore your study options, meet our incredible team, and tour Whitehouse’s unique facilities. Whether you’re interested in Fashion Design, Interior Design or Creative Direction and Styling, this is your chance to see what Whitehouse has to offer.

Find out more

CQU | Engineering and Aviation Webinar- August 26th, 2024

Join us for the CQU Engineering and Aviation webinar. Discover the dynamic career of an engineer, where you will develop creative and innovative solutions for our modern day society. Learn about our diverse course options, majors, pathways and more. If Aviation is in your sights, you can expect to hear about two career trajectories – either a pilot or an airline and airport operations expert. Learn about the course structure, residential schools, the career possibilities and more.

Get your questions answered by our course experts and the CQU Support Squad!

Find out more

CQU | Diagnostic Imaging Webinar- August 28th, 2024

Join us for the CQU Diagnostic Imaging webinar, specifically exploring our career-ready Echocardiography, Medical Imaging and Sonography courses. Enjoy a career where you can help people using cutting edge technology. Our diagnostic imaging courses are designed alongside industry and involve extensive work placements. Hear how this means you’ll get the practical experience you need to graduate job ready in your chosen stream. Get your questions answered by our course experts and the CQU Support Squad!

Find out more

Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development

As parents, we all want the best for our children, and one powerful way to support their emotional development is through the Circle of Security. This concept, grounded in decades of research on child development, offers valuable insights into how we can foster secure, healthy relationships with our kids. Here’s a closer look at what the Circle of Security is and why it’s crucial for your child’s growth.

What is the Circle of Security?

The Circle of Security is a visual model (below) that represents the fundamental needs of children and the role of parents in meeting those needs. It’s based on the idea that children thrive when they feel securely attached to their caregivers. This model helps parents understand and respond to their child's emotional needs effectively.

At the core of the Circle of Security are two primary needs: exploration and security. Children need a safe base from which they can explore the world and a secure haven to return to when they need comfort or reassurance. Imagine the Circle as a protective boundary that surrounds a child, offering both a space to grow and a safety net for when they feel overwhelmed.

Why is the Circle of Security Important?

1. Promotes Healthy Emotional Development: When children feel secure in their relationship with their caregivers, they are more likely to develop positive self-esteem, resilience, and emotional regulation skills. This security helps them feel confident enough to explore their surroundings, take on new challenges, and build healthy relationships with others.

2. Enhances Parent-Child Relationships: By understanding the Circle of Security, parents can better recognise their child’s needs and respond in ways that strengthen their bond. For instance, when a child seeks comfort, parents can provide reassurance and support, reinforcing their role as a reliable source of security.

3. Reduces Behavioural Issues: Children who feel secure are less likely to exhibit behavioural problems. When their emotional needs are consistently met, they are more likely to manage frustration and stress effectively, leading to more positive behaviour and a more harmonious home environment.

How Can Parents Apply the Circle of Security?

1. Be Attuned to Your Child’s Needs: Pay attention to your child’s signals and respond promptly to their need for comfort or exploration. This responsiveness helps build a secure attachment.

2. Offer Comfort and Reassurance: When your child is upset or scared, provide comforting words and physical closeness. Your presence reassures them that they are safe and valued.

3. Encourage Exploration: Allow your child to explore their environment and try new things, knowing they have a safe base to return to. This balance of exploration and security is key to healthy development.

Incorporating the Circle of Security into your parenting approach can make a profound difference in your child’s emotional well-being. By being a responsive, supportive presence, you help your child navigate the world with confidence and security.

Image from: https://www.circleofsecurityinternational.com/circle-of-security-model/what-is-the-circle-of-security/

Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Support

Two Volunteer Opportunities

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

Our Father's Day stall is next week. Reminder for your child to bring a bag to keep the gift a surprise.

Classes will be allocated timeslots throughout the morning of Tuesday 27th August.

Come and be part of the fun.... volunteering involves helping the younger students pick those special gifts... sign up here if you can help - https://volunteersignup.org/78LRQ  

Seeing all the smiles and chatting to the College students is so rewarding.

Gala Day Thursday 5th September – Merdan Plains Fields

Volunteers for BBQ and selling Drinks – if your child is attending why not help for an hour or two.

REGISTER HERE https://volunteersignup.org/WQDK7

Battle of The Bands Trivia Night

Thank You to Our Amazing Sponsors, Volunteers, and College Families!

Friends of Pacific recently hosted our highly successful major fundraising event for the year - Battle of the Bands Trivia Night. We couldn’t have done it without the incredible support of our sponsors, volunteers, and families. Your contributions, both big and small, played a crucial role in making this event not only a night to remember but also a meaningful success for our college community.

To set the scene for the night the College Rock Band entertained us while tables were being decorated and guests arrived in their amazing outfits. Our MC, Scott, thank you for your many hours of preparations of the trivia questions and music, you kept us on track for the night and entertained us – challenging trivia questions, games, fines, and also dance offs!!

To our sponsors, your generosity allowed us to offer the vast array of raffle, silent auction and a live auction prizes - This was instrumental in enhancing the experience for everyone involved, and we are deeply grateful.

To the parents, staff and families of our students, your enthusiastic participation, whether through donating, volunteering, attending, or spreading the word, was vital. Your commitment to our college and its activities is what makes our community so special. Your encouragement and involvement in events like this help foster a vibrant, supportive environment for our students to thrive.

Thank you for standing by us and for believing in the importance of nurturing creativity and community spirit at Pacific Lutheran College. Together, we have not only raised funds but also strengthened the bonds that make our college such a wonderful place. We look forward to your continued support in future events and endeavours.

Finally to our “Roadie Crew” – you were awesome!!!

We will be sharing photos in the coming week – so make sure you like our page – Friends of Pacific

Thanks again to all our Sponsors, special mention to;

Moffatt Beach Brewing Co, Brilliance For Business, Amber Werchon, Laserzone, Jetts, NumberWordsnWorks and Gourmet Fudge Company.

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)

August

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