Compass No 681 - April 2023

This week's Chaplain's update will focus on the theme of forgiveness, inspired by Matthew 18: 21-22. We'll delve into why we can extend our forgiveness to others, drawing from the teachings of Jesus.

In addition, we had several significant events taking place in our College community this week. We held our Junior and Senior ANZAC services in chapel, where we honored the sacrifices of our ANZAC soldiers. On Friday, we're excited to celebrate the opening and dedication of the new J-Block building, a fantastic addition to our College community.

We're also delighted to announce that our Youth Group is back this term with an array of exciting events planned. In Week 3, we'll meet on Sunday (7^th May) from 5.30pm-7.00pm. In Week 7, we have a special Youth planned on Thursday night (1^st June), and in Week 9, we'll gather again on Sunday (18^th June) for a time of connection, faith-building, and fun.

Mrs Holly Gricks, College Chaplain

Pacific has a strong culture of growing student leadership across the College.  The introduction of an amended Leadership Development Program that speaks directly to the College’s mission statement and 2023-2026 Strategic Plan of growing and enhancing student leadership and connections to Pacific Alumni was well received by our current Year 11 cohort.

On Wednesday 26^th April, the Year 11 cohort engaged in the College’s first customised Leadership Day, programmed by Ms Leigh Finter, Head of Senior College Students and sessions facilitated by Director of Students, Mr Mark Hauser, Heads of House, Head of Learning Senior College and Head of Careers.  Small group activities and discussions were facilitated by past Pacific graduates who held leadership positions from College Captain and Vice Captains, Sports Captains and House Captains.  Year 11 students appreciated a Q&A session with the Alumni.

Students were provided with the opportunity to engage in a range of leadership and cohort-building activities. Students spent time reflecting in their small groups and together as a cohort, focusing on the statement: leadership is not a position, it’s a relationship.

At the end of each activity and challenge, students discussed leadership qualities and attributes that exist within the team.

Students enjoyed a pizza lunch and time to play basketball and volleyball, and socialise in a more relaxed environment before finishing with a  presentation by Ms Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning and Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Careers. 

Year 11 students will engage in a second leadership day, Wednesday 19^th July, Week 2, Term 3.  During this day, students will have a more targeted focus on discussing cohort goals and intentions to ensure a successful final year as students at Pacific.

Ms Leigh Finter, Head of Senior College Students

During the past week, I was listening to a podcast around the topic of what we, as humans can learn from the comic strip, Charlie Brown. In “Peanuts” the central character, Charlie Brown is forever coming up against a world full of challenges and overcoming obstacles constantly presenting themselves. It delves into his everyday struggle and resilience in overcoming what life continually throws at him. The overwhelming opinion of the podcast was that it is through the experiences of “losing” that we grow and incrementally, failure is a far greater teacher than success. When faced with a challenge, we can throw ourselves on the ground, or we can throw ourselves into conquering what is before us. 

Our overarching focus for this term in You Can Do It is on achievement and particularly the valuing of individual differences and celebrating the unique set of skills that each of us contributes to the College. In Pacific Way, we will investigate the “we” component and how we collaborate and work toward our own expectations of achievement. Like all pursuits worth doing, accomplishment takes time. They are a continual work in progress and require persistence, resilience, and energy from all sides to meet goals.

Sometimes we fail to meet the goals and expectations that we expect for ourselves and can falter, and we learn valuable lessons about ourselves and each other. A favourite quote of mine is from Ash Barty that summed this thinking up “I never lost, I learnt.” Forgiveness and reflection are crucial in rebuilding our expectations when they may falter. But our achievements must be tempered by understanding that our successes don’t define us and that all of us are uniquely worthy.

In the past, I have listened to industry leaders speak about how best to prepare students for life beyond school; their primary focus tends to be on attributes rather than specific skill sets. They want people who can collaborate productively, problem-solve effectively, and empathise with others. Separating our triumphs from our worth is essential and what our pastoral care program here at Pacific, seeks to achieve.

A final word of reflection that sums this notion up is from a Year 5 student that was shared as part of a leadership day last term;

“As a community, we must respect, accept and indulge differences. People are all different, so do not correct people for their personality, instead, cherish the feeling and grow together.”

ANZAC Day

On Wednesday morning, our Junior College gathered to commemorate the sacrifices provided by our servicemen and women through the years and in an ongoing capacity in situations around the globe.

As the number of veterans dwindles it is important for young people to not only remember the sacrifices of the past but to accept the responsibility for continuing this legacy of remembrance into the future.

Thank you to the many families that attended the Anzac March in Caloundra on Tuesday. It was especially heart-warming to see many Prep students attending for the first time and beginning a tradition that will continue to grow through their time in the College.

Bringing resources to the College.

With the restriction to COVID-19 now relaxed, students are beginning to bring in resources from home. Students are enjoying the return to normality, however, we are encouraging the bringing in of cards, such as Pokémon, to be brought in with some limitations. It is essential that these activities are limited and that students are free to move, exercise and use their bodies fully in the playground. As a result, these cards will be limited to Fridays. All students and staff are aware of this, and we will continue to educate our students on this expectation.

Take care and God bless.

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

Sunshine Coast Council: Parks and Gardens High School Work Experience and Career Program (Years 10 – 12)

The Parks and Gardens Branch at Sunshine Coast Council has developed a High School Work Experience and Career Program open to students in grades 10, 11 and 12. The aim of the program is to encourage and support young, energetic and enthusiastic individuals to explore future career options within Council’s Horticulture, Arboriculture, Turf and Irrigation, Nursery Operations, Infrastructure Maintenance or Administration teams. Students who apply will come on board with Council work teams for a 5-day period. They will experience first-hand basic technical skills, while also developing transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, interpersonal skills and confidence.

Students who successfully complete the program will receive a Completion Certificate and will be eligible to apply for traineeship programs and vacant positions within the Parks and Gardens branch once they graduate from high school. Any future employment opportunities will provide career progression advantages within the Parks and Gardens Branch and ensure skills and experience can be expanded.

Please refer to the attached flyer and/or following video for further insight into the program and what it entails. For students interested in applying, please visit the SCC Careers Website.

 

Griffith Creative Arts Open Day 2023 (Years 10-12)

Sunday 21^st May, 2023

Designed for those thinking of a creative career, the Creative Arts Open Day is the best way to discover the variety of degree options from design, visual and creative arts, music and performing arts, film and animation, industrial design and architecture.

Find out more here.

 

USC Headstart applications are open (Years 10-12)

Headstart allows students in Years 10-12 to study uni subjects and gain credit towards their future degree, all while still in high school. This means they will have a head start on their degree, which can save them both time and money in the long run.

Students can pursue a subject of interest, experience life as a uni student and enhance their academic skills as they blend high school learning with university study. For the first time this year, Year 10 students are eligible to apply to study Headstart in Semester 2 (commencing July). Completing Headstart in Year 10 will advance students’ learning and set them up for success in their future studies.

Find out more here.

Use this link to make an appointment to discuss your interest in Headstart with Mrs Wanda Hayes. Be aware that applications for Semester 2 close on Friday 12^th May.

 

2023 Aviation Expo (Years 10-12)

Saturday 3^rd June, 2023

The Aviation Australia Expo in Brisbane showcases the burgeoning aerospace industry, with a significant focus on aviation skills development, careers and employment opportunities.

The Aircraft Experience Zone will once again be a major attraction, featuring a range of iconic aircraft that visitors will have the unique opportunity to experience up close.

The Aviation Expo also features dozens of exhibitors from the aviation, defence and education industries who will inspire and educate visitors about how to launch into a career in aviation.

There are many activities for visitors to experience, including cabin crew evacuations, avionics demonstrations, insight into an operational hangar environment, roving entertainment and careers seminars.

Find out more here.

 

ADF Trade Careers Information Session, Maroochydore (Years 10-12)

Thursday 25^th May, 6.00pm-8.00pm

Receive world-class training to work with advanced military assets and enjoy the many benefits of a trade career in the Australian Defence Force.

Registration is essential for this in-person event. See the attached flyer for more information or to register.

 

ADF Women in Defence Virtual Information Session (Years 10-12)

Tuesday 2^nd May, 2023

The Australian Defence Force provides a supportive, inclusive and respectful workplace where you can grow both personally and professionally.

Tune in for a virtual info session to speak with current serving women in Defence to learn more.

Find out more here.

 

ADF Engineering Careers Virtual Information Session (Years 10-12)

Tuesday 2^nd May, 2023

Work with the most advanced technology the Australian Defence Force has to offer with a career in Engineering.

Join us for a virtual info session to learn more.

Find out more here.

 

Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development

Imagine this…

You just yelled at your child. You said something you didn’t mean. You felt overwhelmed and frustrated, and it all happened so fast.

Now, you feel horrible.

Every parent has had moments like these, myself included. And our emotions are also valid.

But when we have those moments, it’s important not to dwell on the guilt. The guilt is a cue that we’ve done something we’re uncomfortable with–something we need to repair.

So, this is an opportunity to model to children what it looks like to take ownership of our behaviours.

When you apologize to your child, you teach them that it’s important to admit when they’ve made a mistake.

You also teach them how to make amends when those mistakes are hurtful to someone else.

Your apology can help repair the bond between you and your child and create an opportunity to work together to solve a problem.

Apologizing can sound like:

“I’m sorry I yelled earlier. Can we try again?”

“I should have been more patient. I realize you needed more time to finish up.”

“I want to apologize for assuming you weren’t being honest with me. I should have asked you about it first. Can we have a do-over?”

Mrs Annie Williams, College Counsellor

Mother’s Day Stall – Volunteers Needed

If you’ve completed your volunteer induction, we’d love your support at the Friends of Pacific Mother’s Day Stall on Tuesday 9^th May. If you have an hour or two to spare and would like to help out, please email fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au to register your interest.

Carpark Raffle Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our FoP Junior Carpark Raffle. There was much excitement from these lucky winners who are looking forward to enjoying their own reserved car space for a term.

Term 2, 2023 – Melanie Richmond

Term 3, 2023 – Zoe Iliou

Term 4, 2023 – Lauren Griffiths

Term 1, 2024 – Cassanda Ng

Thank you to everyone who purchased a ticket – all funds raised will be invested back into the College community.

Volunteers for Open Day BBQ

We’re looking for volunteers who can assist with the BBQ at the upcoming PLC Open Day on Sunday 7^th May. If you’re available for a couple of hours between 10.30am-4.00pm your assistance would be greatly appreciated. All registered volunteers should have received an email last week. If you require more information or have any questions, please email fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au. Come along and have some fun!

Next FoP Meeting

We’d love to see you at our next meeting, on Tuesday 16^th May at 6.30pm in the College Library. You can RSVP by emailing fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au. All agenda items should be submitted via email before 5^th May. Come along, meet some new people and find out how you can help connect our community. Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Carly Lovell, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

Competitive Sport News

Monday Night Netball

Our Netball teams started back again on Monday night, and while the rain threatened to cause havoc, games were able to go ahead. There were some very tight games played out with PLC Pearl and Crystal fighting their way to tie up their matches and PLC Emerald went down by 1 point in their Intermediate A fixture. It was great to see our top team, PLC Sapphire, pick up another win this week. We hope the teams enjoy another week off next week and come back ready to compete on the 8^th of May.

SCISSA Soccer and Volleyball

Senior Soccer

Our 3 Senior teams played their first round of matches in the SCISSA competition on Wednesday afternoon. There was only limited preparation time for our matches so it was great to see all players step up and play to their best. The Senior Girls Team 1 fought out a tight 2-2 draw against St Andrews. Senior Girls Team 2 played a friendly against a combined Matthew Flinders Team, and while they lost, they gained a valuable training run before a proper point fixture next week. Well done to our Senior Boys team for their first-round win over Nambour Christian College. It was a close game until half time and then a couple of late goals helped secure the victory.

Junior and Intermediate Volleyball

There were some great performances from our volleyball teams this week in the opening round of Junior and Intermediate SCISSA Volleyball. Our Junior Girls and Intermediate Boys had some tough matches against quality opposition but should hold their heads up high for maintaining high levels of effort all the way through. Congratulations to our Intermediate Volleyball Girls and Junior Volleyball Boys for their first-round wins. Students are reminded to ensure they have their playing jerseys with them each week for games. Some of our teams have grown unexpectedly so there will need to be some changes in the following weeks. The steps forward for dealing with this will be outlined to players during Friday sport.

Trish Buckley Volleyball

Well done to our Junior Trish Buckley Volleyball teams for their performances in the first round of the competition last Friday night. Our Year 8 Girls had 2 tough games against high performing Caloundra and Burnside teams, and although they didn’t come away with a win, they gained valuable experience playing at this high level. The Year 9 Boys competed hard against GCC but were outplayed in a 3-set loss. They bounced back to win against Meridan College in the last game. Thank you to the Year 8 Boys who had to wait until 8.55pm for their game and it was great to see that all the players turned up and played with great spirit. The game went to a tiebreaker set and the team went down in a close tussle. The teams will have this Friday off and will be back on again on Friday 5^th May for Round 2.

Rugby

PLC Rugby was on form on Wednesday night, posting a convincing win over Good Samaritan Catholic College, defeating them 50 – 7. The boys continued to go from strength to strength, playing a clean and tactical game and supporting each other well on the field. They continue to show excellent improvement from week to week, and it is exciting to continue working with them as they grow as players across the season. Congratulations to Louie McCormac and Sam Rodway on receiving the man of the match this week.

Student Acknowledgements

Well done to the students listed below for their outstanding achievements in sport:

• Holly Targato for her outstanding performances in Athletics over the weekend at the Australian Junior Athletics championships in Melbourne. She finished 10^th in Australia!

• Jye Flynn for his recent fantastic achievements in karting where he came 3^rd out of 49 competitors in KA3 Junior in Round 2 at the Australian Kart Championships in Perth on 23^rd April 2023.

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)

1         Labour Day

7         PLC Open Day

9         FoP Mother’s Day Stall

10       Year 4 Camp departure (returning Friday 12th)

15       Year 4-6 SCISSA Training (3.15pm-4.15pm)

16       Friends of Pacific (6.30pm)