The Coracle - Term 2, Week 10

The whole College celebrated Saint Columba Day with a special Liturgy on Friday, 9 June. This was a joyful occasion that involved both students and staff in prayer, song and the Word of God in our worship. We reflected on the theme of foundations. Luke 6:46-49 tells the story of two men who built their houses on different foundations: one on rock and one on sand. The house built with a rock foundation was kept strong amid the chaotic storm, while conversely, the house established on sand could not withstand the harsh conditions and collapsed.

This analogy is reflected in Saint Columba’s life. When his actions were based on the firm foundation of love, he was fulfilled and had purpose. He was successful and brought happiness to those he encountered. Jesus teaches us that the foundation of all things is love, and if we act with love as our base, then we will always endeavour to do what is right in the world.

It was a joy to see our students act with respect and reverence for the occasion and for our choirs and musicians to share their talents to the glory of God.

Mrs Jane Bailey | Spiritual Director R-5

Term 2 has been another busy and exciting one in the Junior School. We have once again engaged in many opportunities, including the expansion of Student Life activities. These have enabled students with opportunities to explore their personal gifts and talents, and also being able to give new activities a go! We thank the staff involved in organising, supervising and giving of their own time to these various events for students.

• Year 3-5 Adelaide Youth Sinfonia's Schools Day
• Year 5 & Year 6 SACPSSA North Basketball Carnival
• Year 4 AFL Max Camp
• Basketball Clinics
• Morning Health Hustle
• Cross Country Running
• Year 4 - Year 6 SACPSSA North - Football Carnival
• Junior School Performing Arts Lunchtime Concert
• Casual Clothes Fundraiser (R-5) - Food donations going to Magdelene Centre.

This Semester we have seen a lot of growth in student learning through our intervention and extension programs. Around 300 students have engaged in regular sessions for Literacy and Numeracy, MaqLit and Mini-Lit, Life Skills and Lego Therapy. We thank our Director of Diverse Learning, Mrs Monique Lagana, Assistant Head of Curriculum and Learning, Mrs Michelle Arthur and Diverse Learning Teacher and Officers for coordinating and implementing these programs. They have made such a difference to literacy and numeracy outcomes for students. Each student who has engaged with a program will receive a Summary Report communicating their progress. Learning reports will be released on Wednesday, 5 July through SEQTA. If you would like a printed copy, please contact Student Services.

As the school holidays approach, we encourage you to explore some great activities for children and families. Many are free and provide rich learning and opportunities to spend quality time together.

https://playandgo.com.au/adelaide-school-holiday-ideas/

https://schoolholidayactivities.com.au/school-holiday-activities-adelaide/

https://getoutwithkids.com.au/school-holiday-activities-adelaide/

Check out this Girl Power program by Andrea White and other community events:

community/community-notices

Enjoy the school holiday break.

Mrs Julie Hancock | Head of Junior School

It is a pleasure to highlight some of the incredible work and experiences that our Middle School students have been involved in during the second half of Term 2. I have worked at St Columba College for some time now, and I never cease to be amazed by the talent, effort and attitude these young people exhibit every day.

Year 6 students engaged in a Decision-Making Workshop in Religious Education, and a Harry Potter-themed Business Design Expo. They have also been busy rehearsing their ‘Aladdin Kids’ Musical Performance, showcasing their talents for parents and friends. The students did a wonderful job and should be very proud of their efforts. 

The Year 9 students complete The Rite Journey throughout the year, which is an exciting and empowering program designed to support the ‘development of self-aware, responsible, respectful, resilient, resourceful and reflective adults.’ The City Bound Discovery Tour is one of several wonderful opportunities for students to enhance their profile as independent and capable young people. In Week 10, students navigated the Adelaide CBD, demonstrating a range of skills and highlighting their personal growth as global citizens.

We are blessed to offer the Middle School students a wide range of Student Life activities. Throughout the term, the school has been abuzz with students extending themselves in extra-curricular activities, including Year 7/8 Girls and Boys Knockout Soccer, Debating, Year 6 Knockout Netball and various other offerings across the Middle and Senior schools. It has been fantastic to see students flourishing in their chosen pursuits. 

Finally, Week 9 was an opportunity to promote College values through the Year 6-9 Middle School Gold Slip Celebration. Congratulations to the students who took part! We are excited to hear about the wonderful things our Middle School students will be recognised for in the second half of the year.

I wish you a safe, restful break, and we look forward to seeing you back in Term 3. 

Mr Alexander Corletto | Assistant Head of Middle School

It has been an eventful second half of Term 2, with various initiatives aimed at supporting our students' growth and development. 

Our Year 12 students recently participated in a series of life skill workshops focused on stress management. These sessions aimed to equip them with valuable tools and strategies to effectively navigate the challenges they may encounter during this crucial year of their education. In addition, an Academic Futures Presentation was organised to guide our students in making informed choices about their future pathways, including university options.  

Our Year 11 students had the opportunity to jumpstart their individual projects through Intensive Research Project Days. This initiative aimed to foster their research and critical thinking skills, preparing them for the challenges of higher education. Similarly, the Year 10 students participated in a Religious Education Intensive Day, laying the foundation for the Stage 1 course they will study next semester.

Our Year 12 students engaged in community learning by volunteering with the Reception reading program. They showcased their experiences and the impact they made through insightful presentations, highlighting the value of giving back to the community. It was a delight to see them demonstrate their learning through 10-minute discussions. 

We take pride in showcasing our students' talents and skills. The Year 12 Food & Hospitality Catering Function on Wednesday, 21 June was a splendid display of their abilities in culinary arts. Their dedication and hard work resulted in a memorable event that delighted all attendees. 

To promote wellbeing and connection, the Year 12 students embarked on a retreat at Nunyara Conference Centre from Thursday, 22 June – Friday, 23 June. This retreat provided them with a valuable opportunity to bond with their peers and find grounding for the challenges that lie ahead in the remainder of the year.  

Mrs Deirdre Walters | Head of Senior School