Compass No 738 - October 2024

From the Principal

Keeping Small Things Small

Every day there are events that have the potential to bring us great joy and those that challenge us. Pausing to keep challenges in perspective and in balance with the whole of our experience or relationship enables us to step away from escalating or catastrophising an event. Better ways forward are usually found where we are able to step back and reflect. A critical element of this is to first focus on “seeking to understand” and then to keep energy directed on what we can influence. Understanding involves self reflection and awareness, drilling down to values and identification of what is important. Taking a longer term view and assessing whether something will be important in a week, month, year or decade’s time can help to centre thinking. Having identified small steps that align with our values and what is important we are better placed to calmly move to a better space.

 

Prayer that involves thanking God for the many gifts that He brings into our lives as well as asking for God’s help and wisdom opens our hearts and minds to deeper listening and insight. God promises to be with us and provide for our daily needs.   Through God’s love and strength, we can move gently forward with grace, bringing hope and possibility.

Principal’s Log

Welcome to the start of Term 4. It is always good to feel the energy as staff, students and parents reconnect with community. We particularly welcome new students, their families and new staff members Mrs Tammy Schincariol (Middle and Senior College English and Humanities teacher), Dr Ryan Delaney (Middle and Senior College English and Humanities teacher) and Mr Jack Best (Middle and Senior College Mathematics and Science).

There is a great deal for us to look forward to as we commence the term. We wish all the best to our Year 12 students as they move into the preparation and completion of their external exams and to our Year 11 students who are completing their exams over this fortnight before commencing their Year 12 Unit 3 studies in Week 3.

Our staff team and Year 9 students have been getting ready to engage with their two week outdoor education experience from the start of next week. The expeditions that include canoeing, bushwalking, mountain biking and a solo experience provide a great opportunity for students to grow as individuals, in their relationships with each other and with God and in their appreciation and connection with the environment. We thank Mr Paul Brace and his team for the preparation and leadership of this transformational experience.  We wish all Year 9 students and staff a rich time of learning and growth.

Our Mary Poppins cast and crew have been excitedly rehearsing and preparing for what promises to be a thoroughly entertaining production. We wish Mrs Kristy Astwick and Mrs Lisa Stevens and their cast and crew team all the best as they continue to refine performances and put the finishing touches onto all aspects of the production.

We are now near the end of the tender phase of the construction of the extension of the gym which will provide a playing space for 2 additional indoor courts, a dance space, a gym fitness area and staff areas. The space will act as a community gathering space for assembly, chapel and information evenings. As part of the tender process, builders negotiate with the College in regard to the areas that will be impacted through the 12 month construction period which is expected to commence late November this year. We look forward to providing more detail once the builders have been appointed and construction dates and processes have been finalised.

Term 4 is a busy fast moving and important term of growth for all students. Having a calm focused approach to learning is important for our young people across the College. The Heads of Learning have provided some guidance to assist students and parents to finish strongly. I would encourage all families to read this article and to establish routines that support quality learning at home and school.

We pray that God would enable each of us to approach this coming term with a calm, purposeful mindset where we flourish as we embrace opportunity, grow capacity to keep the small things small and use our gifts to bring benefits to each other and the broader community.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal

 

From the Head of Learning K-5, From the Head of Learning Middle College, From the Head of Learning Senior College

Welcome Back to Term 4: Finishing Strong and Celebrating Success

Term 4 brings a renewed sense of focus and excitement as we enter the final stretch of the academic year. Whether you're a student aiming to achieve your best, a parent supporting your child, or a teacher guiding your class, the journey to a successful finish can be challenging and rewarding. Here is how you can make the most of Term 4:

1. Set Clear Goals

Start the term with clear and achievable academic goals. Whether improving grades, completing major assignments, or mastering specific skills, having a target to work toward will keep you motivated.

For Students: Break your goals down into smaller, manageable tasks. Focus on one step at a time, and keep track of your progress.

For Parents: Help your child set realistic goals and encourage them to stay on track by reviewing their progress together.

2. Time Management

Effective time management is critical to a solid academic finish. As the term progresses, assignments, exams, and extracurricular activities can pile up.

Create a Study Schedule: Plan out study time, homework, and revision in advance. Ensure there's also room for relaxation and downtime.

Prioritize Tasks: Focus on high-priority assignments and upcoming exams. Tackle the more challenging subjects first when your energy levels are highest.

3. Stay Organised

Organisation helps reduce stress and keeps you on top of your workload.

Use a Planner or Digital Calendar: Keep track of deadlines, exam dates, and school events. Checking off completed tasks will give a sense of accomplishment.

Keep Study Space Clutter-Free: A clean and organised workspace can improve focus and productivity.

4. Maintain Good Study Habits

Consistency in study habits will make a huge difference.

Active Revision: Instead of passively reading notes, engage with the material through active recall, practice questions, or explaining topics to others.

•Stay Engaged in Class: Participate, ask questions, and clarify any doubts immediately. Stay focused during lessons and take thorough notes.

5. Seek Help When Needed

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out.

Ask Teachers for Clarification: If there are topics or assignments you’re struggling with, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Utilize Peer Support: Study groups or tutoring can make complex topics easier to understand.

6. Take Care of Your Well-being

Mental and physical health are crucial for maintaining focus and stamina throughout Term 4.

Sleep Well: Ensure you're getting enough rest each night. Sleep helps with memory retention and overall well-being.

Eat Healthy: Proper nutrition fuels your brain and body, helping you stay alert and productive.

Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, take breaks, and engage in activities you enjoy outside of school to keep stress levels in check.

7. Celebrate Success

As the term winds down, it’s essential to reflect on the achievements and hard work that have brought you this far.

Acknowledge Milestones: Celebrate small and big wins, whether finishing a project, improving in a subject, or performing well in an exam.

Family Celebrations: Parents can show their support by organising a small celebration or a family activity to acknowledge the efforts their children have put in.

End-of-Year Reflections: Reflect on the year’s challenges and successes and set new goals for personal growth.

Final Thoughts

Term 4 is not just about ending the academic year but about finishing strong academically and personally. With a combination of focused effort, good habits, and a positive mindset, students can achieve their best results while also taking the time to celebrate their successes.

Let’s make this final term count—Every Blessing!

Mrs Sue Zweck Head of Learning K-5, Mrs Jo Belchamber Head of Learning 6-9, and Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach Head of Learning Senior College

Food for Thought

Understanding Stress vs. Anxiety: Supporting Our Children’s Emotional Development

As we navigate the end of the school year, it's important to address a topic that affects many of our students: the difference between stress and anxiety. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct experiences that require different responses.

Stress is a natural reaction to challenges and demands, such as exams, assignments, or social situations. It can be motivating and is often temporary. When students face stress, they might feel overwhelmed or pressured, but these feelings typically subside once the challenge is resolved. In fact, manageable stress can encourage resilience and help children develop coping skills.

On the other hand, anxiety is more persistent and can be debilitating. It often involves excessive worry or fear that can interfere with daily life. While stress is situational, anxiety can arise even in the absence of a specific trigger, leading to physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches. Recognising this distinction is crucial for helping our children navigate their feelings effectively.

As parents, it’s vital to foster an environment where children can express their feelings without fear of judgement. Encouraging open conversations about stress and anxiety allows children to differentiate between the two and understand that feeling stressed doesn’t mean they are anxious. Simple practices, such as mindfulness exercises, physical activity, and time management strategies, can help them cope with stress in healthy ways.

By supporting our children in recognising and articulating their feelings, we can help them build resilience and emotional intelligence. Let’s work together to empower them with the tools they need to manage both stress and anxiety effectively.

Thank you for your ongoing support in creating a nurturing school environment.

Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Support

College News

2014 Graduating Class 10 Year Reunion

 

 

Pacific Plus Travel Buddy travels to our Sister School

Our Year 7 Pacific Plus students had an exciting start to Term 4 with the Travel Buddies group returning from the holidays to hear that with the help of Mrs Hauser one of their Travel Buddies will be sent to Japan. These students throughout their Community Problem Solving project this year identified an area of concern about students who may be anxious when returning to school after an extended leave. To help address this problem the Year 7 students designed and sewed approximately 15 Travel Buddies that are being borrowed from the library by PLC students when they go on holiday.

The latest PLC Travel Buddy to take an adventure jetted off in an Express Post box today and will travel to our sister school Seishin Gakuen in Japan to enjoy some adventures with their students. We are looking forward to receiving photos of the Seishin students with our Travel Buddy and hearing about their adventures. Congratulations to Evie Schenck, Evie Weule, Lara Richards, Sophia Biddle, Zara Cammack and Madeleine Costello for this fantastic initiative that is helping our school and the wider community.

Mrs Linda Sydes, Teacher - English, Humanities

 

Library News

Scholastic Book Fair is coming

Do you want the best new children’s books? They’re coming to our school soon! Join us from the 14th to the 17th of October in the library and find your next favourite read.

Ms Nell Keen, Teacher Librarian

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop, and Flexischool uniform orders, will be closing earlier this year for stock take.  Please ensure you have arranged all your RITE Journey, Closing Service, New Student and New Uniform Purchases prior to Tuesday 19th November 2024. We will reopen for appointments on 13th January 2025.

 

Current Families

Please arrange to visit the Uniform Shop during Term 4 for uniforms for next year to avoid the rush.  Visits to the uniform shop are by appointment.  Appointments can be made with the Main Reception on 5436 7300.  Our Uniform Shop hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8.00am to 10.30am and Tuesday afternoon 2.00-4.00pm by appointment. 

We strongly advise all current families to please arrange uniforms for next year before 19th November 2024.  All new uniforms can be returned for exchange in Term 1 2025 if still in original packaging and unwashed/named.  Transitioning students in Prep to Year 1 and Year 5 to Year 6 students will require Formal Uniforms for the start or 2025. 

 

New families will be given preference for Back-to-School appointments in January 2025 and appointments will be required.

Uniforms ordered via Flexi-schools will be delivered to the classroom (Junior College) and the Well Being Centre (Middle/Senior College) up to Tuesday 19th November 2024.  Orders placed during the holidays will not be ready for collection until after Monday 13th January 2025.  You will receive an email advising when your order is ready, and it can be collected from the schools Main Reception.

Please ensure all Rite Journey (Thursday 28th November) uniform requirements (including Blazers and Trousers) are purchased prior to Tuesday 19th November 2024.  End of Year Service is Tuesday 26th November and full formal uniform is required for all students in Year 6– 12. Please ensure you have these items before Tuesday 19th November as the shop will be closed after this date.

Swim Trials will be held from the third week of Term 1 2025 and school swimwear in required for all students in Years 3 to 12.  To avoid the Back-to-School rush on these items, current families are strongly encouraged to purchase swimwear during Term 4 2024. It is advised that, when purchasing swimwear, it is tried on as they cannot be exchanged or refunded.

 

Prep Uniform Fittings

Please contact the Main Reception on 5436 7300 for Prep appointment times on Monday 28th, Tuesday 29th and Wednesday 30th October between the hours of 10.00am and 3.00pm.  Current families, with a student starting Prep in 2025, are most welcome to visit the Uniform Shop during normal days of operation as above.  Appointments will need to be made.

 

New Families Years 1-12

Please contact the Main Reception on 5436 7300 to make an appointment from Monday 13th January to Friday 17th January and Monday 20th January to Friday 24th January 2025.  The Uniform Shop will be open from 9.00am to 3.30pm. Visits to the uniform shop are strictly by appointment. 

 

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Convenor

Debating Team

Our Debating Team was in the semi-finals for the Sunshine Coast Schools Association debate competition this week. They were arguing for the affirmative side against the statement – We regret Year 7 being included in high school.  Both teams had strong arguments with our Pacific team presenting a humorous and well-planned arguments narrowly losing to a stronger negative team.  

Thank you to parents and the outstanding mentorship of Mr Noah Beasley and Miss Makani Campbell who were active in vital roles during the competition. Congratulations to the team for making it through to the semi-finals while brand new to debating.

Mrs Jodi Nielsen, Administration and Communications

Friends of Pacific

Connecting College and Community

Why not feel relaxed this term with your own car space?

Purchase your $20 ticket to have a chance of winning your own car park spot for Term 4!!!!!

The prize will be drawn at 9am Tuesday 8th October 2024. Winners will be announced on our FoP Facebook page.

Funds raised from our car park raffle will be invested back into the College community. Good luck!

Coffee and Chat this Friday 8am at the Coral Café – Come and say “Hi”

New this year is our Christmas Card Competition raising funds for Pacific Together – as often it is at this time of year some families need extra help.

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 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

 

Sport News

Year 7 – 12 Sport

Competitive Sport News:

Basketball:

Our Senior Boys and Girls Basketball teams recently travelled to the Gold Coast to represent the school at the Champion Basketball School of Queensland Tournament.

The girls struggled early but improved with every game eventually finishing 9th and importantly securing their spot in the state championships next year without having to qualify.

The boys also grew and improved as the tournament progressed finishing 4th after a heartbreaking last second loss in the semi-final.

A huge thank you to all students and staff who participated and a special mention to our graduating Year 12 players on your commitment to the program over the last few years.

Netball Trials:

Preparation for our 2025 Netball season will be starting over the next few weeks. We will be running trials for our competitive teams in Week 4 and 5 this term. Trials will be held on the Rear Netball courts next to the Main Oval and will run from 3:30-4:30pm.

Details are as follows:

Tuesday 22nd October: Intermediate Team Trials (2024 Yr 8 and 9 students)

Wednesday 23rd October: Senior Team Trials (2024 Yr 10 and 11 students)

Tuesday 29th October: Junior Team Trials (2024 Yr 6 and 7 students)

If you have any questions regarding trials, please contact netball coordinator, Michelle Dufty, at mdufty@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Term 4 Competitive Sports:

SCISSA Tennis and Rugby will begin fixtures next Wednesday. Basketball will begin again on Friday night and Water Polo will resume on the 14th of October. Information should have now been sent home regarding final details for Tennis and Rugby 7’s teams. Fixtures will be updated on Clipboard by the start of next week. Students and parents can access fixture information through NAV Calendar (under student view) or accessing the Clipboard link from the MY PLC web portal.

If you have any questions about specific details, please don’t hesitate to contact the following coordinators:

Rugby 7’s: Josh Cummins jcummins@pacluth.qld.edu.au  

Basketball: Brad Burdon bburdon@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Water Polo and Tennis: Cameron West-McInnes cwestmcinnes@pacluth.qld.edu.au  

 

Student Acknowledgements:

 

Congratulations to Paris Pohlner in for her selection in the 13-15 yrs Sunshine Coast Cricket Team.

 

 Zoe Woods competed in the Lifesaving World Championships Inter-Clubs.  She competed against competitors aged 15-18yrs from all over Australia and the world. Zoe had a cracker of a campaign managing to become double world champion winning the surf race and board race on the same day.

Her results were as follows:

1st Surf Race

1st Board Race

2nd Mixed Ocean Relay

3rd Oceanwoman Race

3rd Board Rescue

4th Oceanwoman Relay

11th Beach Relay

To top of a fanatic couple of days of racing her club Alexandra Headland won the overall point score for the Inter-Club Teams Youth Ocean Events Pointscore.

 

 Jye Flynn competed in Karting Australia, NSW State Titles, Port Macquarie 2024. In a weekend marked by unpredictable weather, swinging between rain and sunshine, Jye (#10) tackled a brand-new track with remarkable skill and determination, securing the prestigious Blue Plate in KA3 Junior Light against a highly competitive field of 35 drivers.

- Qualifying: 3rd

- Heat 1: 3rd → 2nd

- Heat 2: 3rd → 3rd

- Heat 3: 3rd → 1st

- Final: 1st → 1st

It was an outstanding performance from Jye, overcoming tough conditions and rising to the challenge to be crowned the NSW State champion!

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

Junior Sport

Year’s 2 – 5 Learn to Surf Program

As part of our school surfing program, we are pleased to announce that we will be offering a four week Learn to Surf Program for students in Years 2 – 5 this term.

The program will be run through North Caloundra Surf School in conjunction with Pacific Lutheran College staff.  A range of topics will be covered in this four-week program including: reading ocean conditions, board handling and developing fundamental movements such as balance, agility and coordination.

Details of the program are as follows:

•          Monday mornings before school, 6:00am arrival for a 6:15am start. Sessions will conclude at 7:15am.

•          Program begins on Monday 21st October (Week 4 ) and runs through to Monday 11th November (Week 7).

•          Students will surf at various Caloundra beaches (Kings, Dicky’s, Happy Valley) depending upon conditions.

•          Parents are responsible for transport to and from the different venues.

 

A portion of the cost of the program will subsidised through the College but will still cost $20 per student which will cover four surfing sessions as well as use of a foam surfboard and wet shirt supplied through North Caloundra Surf School.

Participation in this program is limited with only 24 places available. Spots will be given on a first served basis.

If you are interested in your child participating in this program, please email lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au  to register your child.

 

Student Success:

Over the recent September school holidays, Hudson Rooth from Year 4 competed at Gymnastics Queensland Junior State Championships. Hudson finished in 3rd place in the Level 3 - Under 10 boys, All Round Event at these championships and his Regional team and National Club team took out first place. Well done to Hudson on these fantastic results.

Mr Darren Hooper, Head of Junior Sport

Club Sport

Club Sport

Pacific Lutheran College has several sports development programs outside of school hours. These programs encourage participation, giving students the opportunity to be part of a team, and learn basic skills of the game.

The parent-led Pacific FC Soccer and PLC Netball Clubs compete on Saturdays in community competitions throughout the Sunshine Coast.

PLC Netball Club

We hope everyone had an enjoyable September school holiday break Although Saturday netball is officially over the for year, there is always something netball-related for our players to consider.

Caloundra District Netball Association are calling for nominations from players born 2007 to 2010 to trial for the 2025 CDNA senior representative teams. Please see below and the CDNA Facebook page for further details.  Registrations close this Friday 4 October.

SMS Movement have a Netball performance program for all players interested in building their strength and conditioning to improve their on-court netball performance.  Please see below details and the SMS website.

Your PLC Netball Club Committee

President – Donna Watkins | netballpresident@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Secretary – Peta King | netballsecretary@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Registrar – Karen Costa  | netballregister@pacluth.qld.edu.au
FacebookPLC Netball Club
Instagram: PLC Netball Club

Mrs Donna Watkins, PLC Netball Club President

Pacific FC

2025 U9-U16 REPRESENTATIVE TRIALS

•          Nominations are still open to trial for 2025 Representative teams.

•          Trial Dates 12, 19 and 26 October

•          Venue: Chancellor Park Soccer Club

Click here to nominate

2025 U7, U8, U10 and U12/13 FEMALE DIVISIONS

•          Register your interest via: PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au

2025 REGISTRATIONS 

•          Open at the end of October

Contact: The Registrar
Email: PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Website: https://www.pacificsoccerfc.com/
Facebook: Pacific Soccer FC 

Mrs Rita Williams, Pacific FC President

St Mark’s Lutheran Church

Worship @ St Mark’s

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)

Upcoming Dates

Upcoming Dates

October

7            King’s Birthday Holiday

8-11       Year 11 Exams

8-18       Year 9 Camp

15          Middle College Orientation Day for students entering Year 6 and 7 in 2025

15          Middle College Parent Information Evening

16          Year 12 2025 Student and Parent Information Evening

19          2014 Graduate Reunion

22          Friends of Pacific

28-8       Year 12 External Assessment

31-1       Year 3 Camp

 

November

28-8       Year 12 External Assessment

31-1        Year 3 Camp

4             Stem Showcase

6             Prep information Evening

8-9          Junior Musical

11           Year 3 & 4 Strings Concert

13           Year 5 & 6 Instrumental Concert

14           Sports Awards

14           Year 12 Graduation

15            Year 12 Farewell Chapel

15            Year 12 Formal

19            Friends of Pacific

20            Junior Ensembles Concert

22            K-5 Carols

26            6-12 End of Year Service

27            Year 10 Leadership Day

28            Year 9 Leadership Day

28            RITE Journey Homecoming

29            P-5 Closing Service

29            Term 4 Concludes