2025 Term 1 Week 4

Upcoming Events

Principal's News

Looking Ahead – Our 2025-2027 Strategic Plan

In the second half of last year, Brisbane Catholic Education released its Strategic Plan. All schools were asked to develop their own 2025-2027 Strategic Plan.

As part of our reflection, we considered prior goals, data and feedback from the community. For example, responses to the annual Tell Them From Me Survey have been reflected upon in determining the direction we propose to take across the next 3 years. It is an exciting opportunity for us to determine a plan that allows us to reflect and improve upon each year, actively seeking to make Chisholm Catholic College a place that we can all be proud to be a part of!

At all stages, we want to maintain our Mission and Vision, which is founded on being a community of faith, as well as a place where the tenets of holistic education are lived every day.  

Our 2025 Annual Improvement Plan and Explicit Improvement Agenda (Annual Goals)

Following the formation of our 2025-2027 Strategic Plan, we have determined four (4) goals for this year.

The Explicit Improvement Agenda will see a continued focus on what was set last year – emphasising the impact of feedback. Indeed, the progress that we observed last year gives us much to celebrate. But, we are still on what is a significant journey towards improving student outcomes and are committed to building upon the strategies that are fast becoming embedded practice in learning and teaching.

Our other goals for this year are outlined in the following graphic. They are inherently and purposefully connected.

 I look forward to communicating our progress across this year!

Attendance Matters: Start the Year Strong!

We are now well and truly into the school year, commencing Week 4 today. At this time, I want to highlight the critical importance of regular attendance. Research shows that consistent attendance is a key factor in academic success and overall student well-being. Research highlights that higher student attendance is linked to better academic outcomes and the development of essential social and emotional skills.

We support the "Every Day Counts" initiative across all Queensland schools, emphasising that every school day matters. Missing even a few days can set students back significantly, impacting their learning and social development.

How Parents Can Support Attendance:

1. Establish Routines: Set consistent bedtimes and morning routines to ensure your child is ready for school each day.
2. Communicate: Talk to your child about the importance of attending school and address any concerns they may have.
3. Stay Informed: Keep track of school events and important dates to avoid scheduling conflicts. Refer to the calendar details we provide in the Newsletter and Upcoming Dates and Details.
4. Seek Support: If your child is experiencing difficulties, reach out to the school for assistance. We are here to help. 

Together, we can ensure that every student starts the year strong and stays on the path to success.

Parents and Community Association (PCA)

The PCA provides a valuable opportunity for parent voice and engagement. Last year we saw positive numbers attending each of the meetings, supporting our overall efforts. Unlike P&Cs, the focus is not on fundraising.

Our first meeting for 2025 will be held tomorrow night – Tuesday, 18^th February – and will commence at 6:00pm. The venue is the Chisholm Centre.

The following meeting will be the Annual General Meeting – Tuesday, 4^th March. Positions on the Executive will become available for interested parents or community members.

God bless!

Damian Bottaccio

Principal

Deputy Principal's News

Reporting Dates - Semester One

Please see the reporting dates for Semester One below. The Progress Report will include available results for assessment in Term 1 along with information about students’ Approaches to Learning for the Term.

• Thursday, 24th April - Term 1 Progress Report published to The Learning Dashboard
• Tuesday, 13th May - Student-Led Conferences
• Tuesday, 17th June - Year 12 IA1 published to The Learning Dashboard
• Wednesday, 16th July - Semester 1 and Yr 11 Unit 1 Report published to The Learning Dashboard

Please contact the class teacher if you have any questions or require further information about your student/s' progress outside of these reporting times. Otherwise, we hope to see many parents at our Student Led Conferences on 13th May

Assistant Principal - Religious Education (Mission and Community)'s News

Opening Mass

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our school opening Mass. It was wonderful to see our community come together in the spirit of our Catholic Identity to celebrate our wonderful students! Your presence and enthusiasm made the event truly special. A special thank you to our parents who took part in our Student Leadership investiture ceremony, we are honoured to walk alongside you in your child’s educational journey. A special thank you to the staff who made the day possible, and Fr. Joshua Nash OMI for celebrating with us.   

Year 9 Service - Learning Opportunity - Intergenerational Program at Infin8 Care Cornubia

On Thursday’s Year Level Assembly, the current Year 9 cohort were invited to sign up to the Intergenerational program at Infin8 Care, Cornubia. These visitations, scheduled for 30 minutes each available Thursday during term, allow small groups of Year 9 students and their STRETCH teacher to engage in conversation, story sharing, games and activities with participating residents in an attempt to spread joy, share in mutual understanding and build community. We are overwhelmed with the number of interested students and are so proud of our Year 9s for expressing their interest. Year 9 parents, please look for a permission slip in your inbox over the next week. Visitations will begin in Week 7 of this term.

Meet Our New Staff

It is my pleasure to introduce to you two of our newest staff members to the Chisholm family 

Assistant Principal - Curriculum's News

Curriculum Letters – Years 7 to 10

Students in Year 7 through to 10 were sent their assessment schedule and curriculum letters today as part of encouraging good study routines. The Curriculum Letters outline the topics your child will be studying this term as well as the due dates, the types of assessment and the suggested response lengths.

As we start a new term, I wanted to share tips to help you support your child's academic journey. Encouraging good study habits and using the Chisholm student diary can assist your child in planning their sessions, tracking assignments, and setting reminders. Key dates and deadlines are outlined in their curriculum letters—ensure they mark these in their diary.

Consistency is crucial; help your child set regular study times and break tasks into manageable chunks. The curriculum letter includes topics and assessment details, which will be beneficial to review together. Keeping your child organised by using colour-coding for subjects and ensuring important documents are visible can greatly aid their progress.

Tips for the term:

• Create a study space and schedule that works for your child.
• Help them set goals and manage their time effectively.
• Encourage them to ask for help if needed.
• Promote a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition and regular exercise.

We hope these tips help your child start Term 1 with confidence and enthusiasm. Best wishes for a successful and enjoyable term ahead!

Curriculum Letters can also be found on the school portal.

Year 11 & 12 Assessment Calendars

The assessment calendars for senior students at Chisholm Catholic College are designed to align with the guidelines set out in the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA) policy and procedures handbook. These calendars provide a clear schedule of assessment tasks, ensuring that students are well-prepared and can manage their time effectively. All students and parents were sent these via email and all Year 11 students were provided with a hard copy to place in their student diary.

The QCE and QCIA handbook outlines the assessment policy, including the Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA) which are crucial for supporting students with disabilities or other identified needs. These adjustments ensure that all students have equitable access to assessments and can demonstrate their learning effectively.

The senior phase of education is a critical period for students as they prepare for their future academic and career pathways. It is essential that students engage fully with their assessment tasks and utilise the support available to them. The assessment calendars help in planning and organising their study schedules, which is vital for achieving success in their senior years.

Join Us for the Year 7 2025 Parent Engagement Evening: Setting Up for Success!

We are excited to invite all Year 7 parents to our upcoming Parent Engagement Evening at Chisholm Catholic College. This event is designed to provide valuable insights and practical tips to help your child succeed academically and thrive in their high school journey.

Date: Tuesday 25th, February 2025

Location: Chisholm Centre from 6pm

Event Highlights:

• Understanding the Learning Environment: Learn about the unique learning environment at Chisholm Catholic College and how it supports your child's academic growth.
• Curriculum Overview: Get an in-depth look at the curriculum for Years 7 to 10, including core subjects, electives, and specialisation options.
• Study Techniques and Homework Routines: Discover effective study techniques and homework routines to help your child manage their time and excel in their studies.
• Supporting Your Child: Gain practical advice on how to support your child's transition to high school, including managing homework, preparing for exams, and fostering a positive study environment.

Don't miss this opportunity to engage with our dedicated staff, ask questions, and connect with other parents. Together, we can ensure that our students are set up for academic success.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Assistant Principal - Student Wellbeing's News

Online Safety Amendment Act 2024 

In recent years, schools across Australia have struggled with the growing influence of social media on young people. Platforms such as Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok have become deeply embedded in students' daily lives, often leading to challenges such as cyberbullying, distraction in class, and mental health concerns. Teachers and school leaders frequently witness the negative impact of online interactions spilling over into the school environment, affecting students' well-being, friendships, and ability to focus on learning. Parents, too, express concerns about the pressure, exposure to inappropriate content, and addictive nature of social media. In response to these growing issues, the Australian government has introduced new legislation aimed at regulating children's access to social media and improving online safety. 

In a landmark move to enhance online safety for young Australians, the federal government has enacted the Online Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, setting a mandatory minimum age of 16 for users on specified social media platforms. This legislation, which amends the Online Safety Act 2021, mandates that platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) implement measures to prevent individuals under 16 from creating accounts. The law is scheduled to come into effect in late 2025, providing social media companies a one-year transition period to comply. Non-compliance could result in fines up to A$49.5 million (Reuters, 2024).

The eSafety Commissioner plays a pivotal role in enforcing this legislation. The office operates a complaints scheme to address serious cyberbullying affecting Australian children. If harmful content is not adequately addressed by the platform, individuals under 18, or authorized adults acting on their behalf, can report the issue directly to eSafety using an online form esafety.gov.au.

The Commissioner has the authority to work with social media companies to expedite the removal of content that is seriously threatening, humiliating, harassing, or intimidating. 

In addition to reporting mechanisms, the eSafety Commissioner provides resources and support for those affected by cyberbullying and inappropriate online content. This includes guidance on how to handle such situations and access to counselling services.  

New Student Morning Tea – Friday, 21st February

This Friday, all students in Year 8-12 who joined the Chisholm Catholic College Family this year are invited to a morning tea in the Chisholm Centre classroom during first break. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect with others they have met during their first introduction and to talk about their first few weeks at the College. Please encourage your son/daughter to attend.

Year 9 Activity Days 

This year, Year 9 students will experience an exciting alternative to the traditional Year 9 camp with the introduction of two Year 9 Activity Days. Due to the rising cost of camps, the decision was made to replace the multi-day excursion with a series of engaging and meaningful on-campus and local activities that still capture the spirit of adventure, teamwork, and personal growth. 

The Year 9 Activity Days have been carefully designed to provide students with a range of experiences that promote resilience, leadership, collaboration, and fun. These activities reflect many of the elements previously included in the Year 9 camp, ensuring that students continue to benefit from these valuable experiences while keeping the program accessible and inclusive for all. 

Over the course of the activity days, students will take part in a variety of challenges and experiences. These may include team-building exercises, outdoor adventures, problem-solving activities, and interactive workshops focused on personal development and life skills. The goal is to encourage students to step outside their comfort zones, build new friendships, and develop essential skills that will support them throughout their schooling and beyond. 

The activity days are calendarised on:  

• Term 2 date: Tuesday, 17th of June 
• Term 3 date: To be advised 
• Thursday 13th November - Year 9 Moving on Mass 

By running these activity days locally, the school can provide high-quality experiences without the financial burden of traditional camps. This initiative also allows for greater flexibility in programming and ensures that all students can participate fully. 

The total cost of the activity days is only $200 per student. This will be charged as part of the Year 9 term fees, with $50 added per student per term. 

We look forward to seeing our Year 9 students embrace these activity days with enthusiasm and a spirit of adventure. The program is sure to be a highlight of their school year, fostering lasting memories and valuable life lessons. 

Student Engagement Leader News

Uniform Presentation Update – A Big Thank You

A huge thank you to all students, parents, and caregivers for the incredible effort and pride shown in the presentation of our uniform over the past weeks. The uniform at Chisholm College has never looked better, and we appreciate the commitment from everyone involved.

As we move forward into 2025, we have tightened our expectations regarding uniform standards, and it is heartening to see such a large portion of our community meeting these expectations. This demonstrates the strong sense of pride and character that our students continue to display.

To ensure this level of consistency is maintained, we kindly ask for the continued support of our Uniform Policy. Please take note of the following key rules:

• Skate/lifestyle shoes, including Air Force, Vans, and Converse, are not permitted.
• Fake eyelashes and extensive makeup are not permitted.
• One set lower lobe earrings, the remainder to be clear.
• Removal of facial piercings or replacement of clear.
• A hat is a compulsory requirement every day, all day.

If you have any questions, concerns, or require further clarification on the uniform policy, please feel free to reach out to our Program Leader: Student Engagement, Janine Campbell, at janine.campbell@bne.catholic.edu.au.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support in helping us maintain the high standards we are proud of at Chisholm College.

School Fees

2025 Student Residential Address and Other Information – Collection Notice for Parents/Guardians

Enrolments 2026 and 2027

BCE Connect APP

Important Notice for All Guardians, Parents, and Carers! 

To ensure smooth communication and efficient management all guardians, parents, and carers MUST download and use the BCE app on their mobile devices.

1. Email Login: Use the email address you provided to the school to log in. (You must hit new user unless you have a child at a BCE school already)
2. Absence Logging: All absences, whether full day or part day, must be logged via the app.
3. Late Arrivals & Early Departures: These must also be logged through the app with prior notification.
4. Prior Notification: Prior notice helps us locate your child quickly, especially if they are in a class on the school oval. (Please note your child may not be released during peak assessment and exam times if prior notice is not organised)
5. Comprehensive Tool: The BCE app is essential for accessing many school-related services and information e.g. school calendar/upcoming events, students' timetable, school directory and push notifications are sent through the app.

For any issues or assistance, please contact the school at 07 3209 0700.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Chisholm Bus 1 Springwood and Chisholm Bus 2 Redlands

Policy Spotlight – BCE Students, Parents and Guardians Complaints Management Procedure

The BCE Student, Parent and Guardian Complaints Management Procedure outlines how we are respond to complaints/concerns. Complaints/concerns can be raised by students and/or parent/guardians.

In summary, a solution to the complaint or concern should be worked through at the appropriate level. Where necessary, our Middle Leaders or CLT may be asked to support our Teachers or Administration Staff with how we respond.

According to the procedure, communication received by the College Leadership Team, such as the Principal, may be referred to the Teacher or Middle Leader in the first instance.

As a final step, should there be concerns in how the complaint or concern is managed by the Principal, the complaint or concern can be communicated to Brisbane Catholic Education. 

At all stages, we ask that communication be fixed on the problem and respectful in tone. All members of our community have a Code of Conduct that are required to follow. For parents/guardians, there is the BCE Code of Conduct for Parents and Visitors. 

VET NEWS

Welcome to the latest edition of VET News! As we kick off a brand-new year, we're thrilled to bring you all the latest opportunities and news through our fortnightly newsletter. Whether you're eager to jumpstart your career, acquire new skills, or simply explore the various pathways available, we've got something exciting for everyone. Stay tuned and dive into the vibrant world of Vocational Education and Training (VET) with us, and let's discover together how it can help you achieve your dreams!

Kick start your year because it's 'Time to be Great'!

This video will give you some great thoughts to kick start your year! Spoken by Carla Cuglietta, "Time to be Great" is based on what she has learned by training 11,000 young people around the world. This is how you make your dreams happen. Click here to watch her short video.

VET … it's not all about trades!

A Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification provides a fast, cost-effective pathway to employment, giving you first-hand experience and confidence to move from school to work. You won’t have to study subjects or relearn skills that you have already mastered. VET is not just about the traditional trades; it includes hundreds of different occupations and industries, including:

• Information Technology (IT), Cyber Security, and Computing
• Travel, Tourism, and Hospitality
• Business, Accounting, Management, and Entrepreneurship
• Engineering, Automation, and Technology
• Architecture, Planning, Building, and Construction
• Agriculture, Horticulture, and Agritech
• Legal Studies
• Automotive
• Health, Medicine, Psychology, and Laboratory Sciences
• Creative Industries, Fashion, and Design

Click here to find out about career options available.

Advice and Support

Check out the Australian Apprenticeship website for advice and support and everything you need to know to become an apprentice. Click here to find out more about how to contact an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider and how to find a Group Training Organisation (GTO).

Match your skills to jobs

Most people don't stay in the same job until they retire. You are likely to have several different jobs over your working life. Working out which jobs suit your skills and interests is a good way to find a career that is right for you. When choosing a job or career, besides thinking about what skills you have, you should also consider:

• Your areas of interest—what do you do in your spare time?
• Your goals for the future—where do you want to be in 10 years?
• What's important to you—more time with family or a higher salary?
• If you are prepared to move or travel for work, what tasks you're good at?
• What qualifications you might need?
  

There are many online tools that allow you to check which jobs are a good match for various skills and qualifications. Check out the Queensland Government's website where they have links to:

• myfuture website
• Your Career
• Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
• Find a course
• Industry job trends and statistics
• Other online tools for matching jobs and skills
  

New Energy Apprenticeships Program

Looking for a career that helps build a cleaner and greener future? When you undertake a New Energy apprenticeship, you’ll have access to tools, technology, methods, and worksites with demonstrations by skilled tradespeople. You’ll be involved in activities such as:

• Designing, developing, constructing, and operating infrastructure for generating, storing, transmitting, and distributing energy from renewable, zero, or low emissions energy sources
• Reducing or managing energy use in residential, commercial, or industrial properties
• Installing and maintaining technology that uses clean energy power

Click here to find out more about the opportunities, support, and job prospects.

Pre-apprenticeship courses

Pre-apprenticeship training is an entry-level certificate. You will do theory and practical training at TAFE and hands-on work experience in your chosen industry. Pre-apprenticeship training will enable you to find out about a trade for up to 6 months before you commit to a full apprenticeship. Some pre-apprenticeship courses are offered within the TAFE at School Program. Click here to find out about:

• What are the benefits?
• What job can I get?
• What if I don't know what I want to do?
• Available courses (including courses throughout Queensland)

Queensland Government's Apprenticeship and Traineeship information

• The Queensland Government has up-to-date information on:
  About apprenticeships and traineeships - Learn the basics and key details on getting started, roles, responsibilities, wages, entitlements and costs
• School-based apprenticeships and traineeships - Everything you need to know - how they work, getting started, requirements, roles, wages, financial help and completion
• For apprentices and trainees - Find support services and advice, financial help, how to make changes to your training contract, forms and replacement records
• Support services - Support and advice during all stages of training, including financial, disability, learning and cancelled apprenticeships and traineeships
• Information sheets, forms, policies and procedures - Links to forms, policies, procedures and content previously held in information sheets for the Queensland apprenticeship/traineeship system
  

White Card for work experience on a construction site

The Workplace Health and Safety Act requires all employees and work experience students on a building site to hold a White Card or General Construction Induction card. You must successfully complete a Building and Construction General Safety Induction course to gain this card. Most courses are delivered online. Some training organisations have a discount price for school students. Some of the organisations that offer the course are Some of the organisations that offer the course are Blue Dog Training (online course) and Tafe Queensland.

For more information, visit the Queensland Work Safe website.. Queensland White Cards are accepted throughout Australia.

What it's like to join the ADF

Several resources on the website can increase your understanding of life in the Defence Forces. For example:

• Discover what Life in the ADF is like by exploring their website which provides information on jobs, lifestyle and benefits, joining the ADF and information for students
• Join the Australian Defence Force Cadets, where you will develop leadership, team building and survival skills
• Explore the Education and Training opportunities available in the ADF, including Sailor Training and Officer Training in the Navy, Soldier training in the Army, Army officer training, Air Force Officer Entry and Reserves
• Consider Defence Force Work Experience which gives you a unique experience into the wide variety of careers available in the ADF
• Visit Submariners to experience working and living under water
• Discover ADFA by taking an interactive journey inside the Australian Defence Force Academy
• Check out the Air Force experiences
• Connect with the ADF on Facebook, YouTube, X, Instagram and LinkedIn for current activities

Back yourself - it's not all about your final school results!

It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that your school results/marks will determine what job/s you get throughout life. Well, the good news is - no they don't … unless you let them, by the way you think about yourself! It's easy to stereotype yourself into careers, jobs, and pathways ‘for life’ all based around your school results. Understand and always remember, your school results are the tool to get you on your first pathway out of school only. Once you are on your way, many opportunities will appear that will allow you to move forward in any number of directions. You only need to look out for them and act on them. Click here to read some new research on the stereotypes formed at a young age and their long-term impacts.

Career decision making is challenging

Career decision making is always challenging. Always remember that at the end of Year 12 you are only making a decision to get you started on your career journey. But where to start? Consider:

• Start doing your research about what's out there. For starters:
• myfuture
• Jobs and Skills Australia
• Australian Apprenticeships and Traineeship Pathways
• Talk to people and find out what they do and where they work
• Your parents
• Your friends' parents
• Your parents' friends
• Your coach
• Neighbour etc
• Take up opportunities while at school:
• Work experience
• Work shadowing
• Listen and engage during career lessons
• See your Pathway or VET Leader for information on opportunities

It's your life so get into the driver's seat!

So what do Ambulance Officers and Paramedics actually do?

Ambulance Officers and Paramedics provide emergency health care for people who are injured, sick, or infirm. They provide patient transport to hospital and between hospitals. It suits those with an interest in the wellbeing of others and who want to help with minor medical issues through to serious injuries and traffic accidents.

Click here to find out more about:

• An overview
• How to become an Ambulance Officer and Paramedic
• Short courses available
• Skills employers are looking for
  

Some career resources for parents

myfuture has put together information, tools, and articles to help you support your child to learn about the world of work and explore careers. Clck here and you will find useful information and resources on:

• Introducing myfuture
• Career articles
• Key features for your child
• Other resources of interest
• Assist your child
• Post-school information

Skills employers want

There are two ways to approach the topic of job skills. The first is the type of job skills all employers want you to have — teamwork, reliability, initiative, maturity, and a willingness to learn. The second is skills in demand. Skills in demand are when there are not enough people to do a particular job. Having the right skills in demand can often come with benefits like better pay. Click here to read about:

• General job skills
• Transferable skills
• Qualities
• A list of skills and qualities employers are looking for
  

What are your rights as a casual employee?

There are several different types of employment arrangements under Australia’s workplace laws. One of the most common types that students work under is casual employment. Casual jobs are defined as jobs that usually:

• Are short-term or temporary
• Involve irregular hours
• Aren't guaranteed to be ongoing
• Provide extra hourly rate as they don't provide paid holiday leave or sick leave
  

Casual employees are employed on an hourly, daily, or weekly basis without any commitment – from the employee or the employer – that the job is permanent or guaranteed. Click here to find out more about:

• Casual loading
• Minimum conditions for casual workers
• Flexibility vs. security in casual work
• Superannuation guarantee
  

TAFE at School Program and Courses

If you’re a year 10, 11, or 12 student you may be able to complete a TAFE Queensland qualification while you're still at school. Choose from a variety of Certificate I to Certificate III courses from a range of study areas from Hospitality to Horticulture, Early Childhood Education to Engineering and everything in between. Successfully completing a TAFE at School course gives you a nationally-recognised qualification, QCE credit points, and direct entry into any TAFE Queensland Diploma course. Click here for more information.

Trades and TAFE

Looking to develop lifelong skills and earn qualifications to open the door on a rewarding career across a wide range of industries? TAFE Queensland offers a wide range of Trades training. Click here to learn more about the trade jobs in the following areas:

• Electrotechnology and Refrigeration (2 trade opportunities)
• Building and Construction (8 trade opportunities)
• Engineering and Design (3 trade opportunities)
• Automotive (4 trade opportunities)
• Safety (1 trade opportunity) Sustainability and renewable energy courses (1 trade opportunity)
  

Be in a 'good space'

Start your new year well! When you do, you can continue with the positive approach and end up in the space you want to be in. Create a good space for yourself by:

• Eating well, sleeping well, and enjoying life
• Managing your time well
• Making a study plan and sticking to it
• Making time for family, friends, and especially YOURSELF
• Making sure you have some fun
• Keeping things in perspective as there are many ways to get to where you want to go
• Being resilient and staying positive even when things don't quite ‘go right’
  

Good study balance and management

When you’re studying, you need to give yourself every chance of success. QCAA's series of videos featuring clinical psychologist, Dr Judith Locke, gives you practical tips to take control of your study, while also looking after yourself. Click here to hear her 1 - 2 minute videos on:

• Study balance - Did you know you can study too much?
• Procrastination - Do you procrastinate often?
• Limiting distractions - Study smarter and limit distractions
• Transforming information - Do you forget what you study?
• Perfectionism - Perfectionism isn't a personality trait
• Exam stress - Struggling with exam stress?
• Sleep - Sleep is the best thing you can do!

Managing your stress levels is doable!

Some things to think about when managing your stress levels as the school year ramps up are:

1. Try not to be perfect - it's impossible
2. Focus on what you are good at - there are plenty of things
3. Look for humour when things are going haywire
4. When you feel tired, have a nap - your mind will be much clearer
5. When you feel down, have a warm bath with bubbles and essential oils, such as orange and lavender. A shower also works when you have the essential oils in the bathroom
6. Try relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and listening to music
7. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress - even going for a walk or a quick jog helps
8. Have some time out for a little while, like watching something mindless on TV
9. Try not to feel too guilty
10. Don't be too hard on yourself - not everything is your fault
11. Work on sleeping 7 to 8 hours a night
12. Work on eating healthy foods but allow yourself some treats from time to time

TAFE and SkillsTech Students

Congratulations to all our students who are embarking on their VET programs at TAFE and to our school-based trainees and apprentices! We are incredibly proud of your commitment to furthering your education and skills. This is the beginning of an exciting journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Let's make this year a remarkable one together!

School-Based Trainees/Apprentices

• Certificate II in Plumbing Services - Oden Glavish, Maverick Mann, Dean Mulhall and Isaac Simms
• Certificate II in Automotive Vocational Preparation - Jacob Kidman and Gaige Mason
• Certificate I in Construction – Charli Irvine, Jed Gillman and Archer Cruickshank
• Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start) - Isaac Cookson, Cooper Henderson, Blake Joblin, Nicholas Kamppi, Aidan Millward, Ryan Narramore, Kyle Skow, Liden Tregea, Jackson Twyford and Jackson Wilson
• Certificate III in Beauty Services – Keziah Rose Partridge
• Certificate II in Animal Care – Kadee Thomson
• Certificate II in Music (Sound Production) – Casey Berndt
• Certificate III in Design Fundamentals (Graphics) – Charlotte Mead and Mackenzie Robinson
• Certificate II in Health Support Services – Regan Fairbrother, Ava Harris and Alexandra Ross
• Certificate II/III in Sport Coaching - Hosea Jones, Daniel De Ruysscher, Chase Fisher, Eamon Gallagher, Jacob Skelton, Oliver Steuart, Jakan Wilson
• Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care - Georgie Chafer, Kaitlyn Clossick, Figenie Iriho, Aneska Myska, Matilda Pascoe and Ciara McQuiston
• Certificate III in Commercial Cookery – Mason Lee
• Certificate III in Barbering – Kai Murphy-Mulcahy
• Certificate III in Health Services Assistance – Darcy L’Barrow and Charli Naylor-Aumann
• Certificate III in Retail – Dean Mulhall, Keziah Partridge and Thomas Philipson
• Certificate III in Air-Conditioning Mechanic – Lucas Nobile

Current Opportunities

Defence Force Work Experience

If you have an interest in the Defence Force, they have a work experience program on offer. Places are limited and students are strongly encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Please monitor the DWEP Website for updates on the program and how to apply. Defence Careers - Jobs List - Defence Work Experience

Apprenticeships QLD

Please see below opportunities for school-based apprenticeships or traineeships. If you are interested, please apply Apps QLD.

Aurora Training Institute

School-based vacancies exist for the following opportunities:

• Certificate III in Business (Hospitality Electives) or Certificate III in Hospitality
  • Dominos - Shailer Park, Marsden, Logan Central
  • Subway – Eagleby, Crestmead, Marsden, Eight Mile Plains, Logan Central
  • The Foxy Coffee – Loganholme
  • Zarraffas – Mount Gravatt, Slacks Creek, Springwood, Bethania
  • Manly Deck and Bar – Manly
  • Chef N Fusion – Pimpama

Australian Vocational Academy

• Certificate III in Business
  • Boost Juice - Logan Hyperdome, and Garden City
  • Subway – Springwood, Shailer Park, and Eagleby
  • Red Rooster – Springwood and Loganholme

Energy Queensland

Energy Queensland (Ergon energy Network and Energex) offer work experience placements for high school students currently in Years 10,11 or 12. If you would like to apply, please go to their website. Work Experience – Energy Queensland

First Choice College

• Certificate III in Business
  • Zarraffa’s – Slacks Creek
  • Point Lookout Bowls Club – Stradbroke Island
    

Flight Centre Torrens University

If you're looking for work in travel, we may be for you! 

Students in Year 12 who are looking for study + jobs opportunities, register your interest in our Year 12 Accelerator Program which starts in March.

Please click on the links to take you to the website. Year 12 Accelerator info. And View the slide show here.

Drop in to J1 for chat if you need any more information.

Library News

Celebrating Library Lovers' Day 2025: A Heartfelt Tribute to Our Favorite Place

On Friday, February 14, 2025, we celebrated Library Lovers’ Day with two exciting events that brought our school community together in the spirit of books, creativity, and fun.

The first event, Blind Date with a Book, invited students to take a chance on a surprise read. Books were wrapped in colorful paper with intriguing descriptions, allowing readers to discover something new and unexpected. It was a delightful way to explore new genres and authors while embracing the thrill of the unknown.

In addition, we launched the Library Lover's Valentine's Day Contest, where students across all year levels shared what they love most about the library in 50 words or less. The response was heartwarming, with students expressing their fondness for the cozy atmosphere, the wide range of books, and the welcoming space our library offers. After reading through many wonderful submissions, we were thrilled to announce the winner—a student who received a special Hampton Cafe voucher as their prize.

It was a joy to see our school come together to celebrate our shared love for reading and the library. Thank you to everyone who participated, and we look forward to more exciting library events throughout the year!

SEDA News

Congratulations to the following students who excelled in the Pacific District Trials this week! These talented athletes have earned the opportunity to compete in a full day of games, where they will aim to secure a spot in the prestigious South Coast squads.

A huge shoutout to:

• Chase Fisher
• Daniel De Ruysscher
• Oliver Steuart
• Jackson Duckworth
• Archie Rhoades
• Archer Miller
• Carter Murray
• Jesse Foster
• Cooper Verrall
• Gabby Foster

We are incredibly proud of their achievements and wish them the best of luck as they continue to strive for success!

Chis Culture News

2025 Collaborative Planning / Pupil Free Days

There will be four (4) Collaborative Planning Days that the staff of Chisholm Catholic College will engage in during Term time in 2025.

These days are:

• Wednesday, 26^th February
• Monday, 14^th July
• Friday, 8^th August
• Friday, 5^th September (All Schools)

Subsequently, it is a Pupil Free Day on Wednesday, 26^th February. However, If your student requires supervision on the day, please contact scornubia@bne.catholic.edu.au

Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) – Community Consultation

Chisholm Catholic College is proposing a masterplan. The proposed works include the refurbishment and extension of existing buildings and new buildings up to two (2) storeys in height. The new works include an auditorium, sports centre, sports fields upgrades, outdoor courts refurbishments, car parking area and vehicular access arrangements. The proposal seeks to accommodate 1233 students within the next ten (10) years.

Please refer to the details below to provide feedback as part of the Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application.

Community News

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