Imagine you live in a country that is ravaged by war. Against the odds you escape with the intention of finding a location that is safe and secure. Imagine you come across to Australia and find yourself placed on Manus Island Detention Centre. Imagine trying to reconcile the fact that you are fleeing persecution but find yourself in detention. 

As you wait to be processed, you find the country that brought you to this detention centre has now left the island and you are in the custody of the police of the host island. Is this ethical? UNHCR has repeatedly warned Australia of the severe limitations of finding safe and effective durable solutions in PNG. Most of the 600 men found to be refugees on Manus Island are likely to find insurmountable obstacles to self sufficiency. Even though Australia will continue to bankroll the costs of their stay in PNG indefinitely, this will not amount to a durable solution. What is to become of these individuals? Are they expected to integrate into the small homogenous community of Manus Island where they are unwelcome and unwanted? Are we happy to witness the tensions that will arise out of this and wash our hands of any responsibility?

Other than the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, we have all travelled to this land and made it home. Imagine if this was the experience of our ancestors? Would we be happy to turn a blind eye to this? Do we remain ambivalent to this humanitarian situation because they are different to us in some way? Or is it because we have accepted the propaganda fed to us through some media channels or politicians from all parties? It is situations such as this that grieve me to say I am Australian. If we are happy to allow this to occur, without challenge, who will stand up for us when the tables are turned? Who will advocate for us when we are subject to discrimination because of our income, where we live, our education, our race or ethnicity or our abilities? The situation is very grave and this is not the Australia we sing about in our national anthem. As a Good Samaritan College we are called to care for our neighbour. Jesus teaches us to reach out to our neighbour and show compassion, care and respect, however, this is not evident at the moment. 

Fr Frank Brennan SJ AO CEO, Catholic Social Services Australia has posted a strong video on YouTube that you may find interesting. Perhaps it will urge you to write to your local member.

The term is quickly coming to a close. The girls are completing assessments and staff are preparing for reports and final marking. We will have the closing mass for the year and the awards on 5 December. You are warmly invited to join us for these events. This year we are introducing two new awards. The Waratah Award for a girl who represents the state in an activity and the Green and Gold Award where a girl has represented the country. In both awards, the girls have to have been selected from a field of candidates who are working to represent either their state or  their country. We believe we are aware of some of the girls who are possible candidates, however, if you would like to nominate your daughter or some other student at the College please complete the nomination form attached to this edition of the Inside Out. The criteria has been added for your consideration. All nominations will go before the selection committee, who will confirm they meet the criteria. There is no limit to the number of girls who could receive the award, they just need to meet the criteria.

Many classes will now be finishing off their projects and units of work. I visited the Year 9 Food Technology class through the week to view their exceptional cakes! You can see images of their work in this edition and on their Snapchat page. They have surely done a fantastic job with their teachers Mrs Durrington and Mrs Irwin. Well done girls. Next week, Year 8 will go on camp and I thank the teachers in advance for leaving their families to give the girls this experience. It will be a wonderful three days for all of them. Many staff are currently involved in HSC marking. This always brings invaluable experience and insight to teachers who are teaching the HSC course and can then be used the following year with the girls.  It is nevertheless arduous and demanding for staff as they mark after a full day in the classroom. I am appreciative of these staff for their dedicated efforts to improve the service they can bring to their faculties and the girls though this invaluable PD.

Finally, I would like to remind you of our evening with Madonna King on Wednesday 8 November in the Mary Sheil Centre, 6pm for a 6.30pm start. I hope you will be able to join us.

I will leave you with a prayer shared with staff on the morning of 1 November.

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal 

A prayer for justice for refugees and asylum seekers

God of mercy, help me to remember:
My ancestors came across the seas!
Help me keep in my mind
Those who came long ago
And those who now come to our shores.

As I face you in prayer, God of Compassion,
I remember my country’s words:
Send them back or Stop the boats.
Then I fear, not your anger
But the steady gaze of boundless love
and unlimited compassion
That impel me to hear Jesus’ command:
Love one another, as I have loved you
Or Pope Francis’ call to open our hearts
To a universal communion
Which excludes nothing and no one.

Daring to step into such relationship, I pray
For those forced to leave family,
home and all they hold dear;
May they find safe passage and helping hands.

I pray for an end to the wars and oppression
that forced them to leave;
I pray that those who welcome them
are blessed in abundance.

And with deep humility
and a heart hungry for justice,
I pray that we Australians, citizens and leaders,
Open our eyes, our minds and our hearts
That we may see, understand and welcome
our brothers and sisters.

May our change of heart penetrate to our beginnings
As strangers in this land.
May we allow those we displaced
– the First People of this land – to welcome us.
Then knowing, in humility, what it is to be welcomed,
We will know how to welcome
the strangers who come to our shores.

This we ask in the name of Jesus your Son,
In whom we are no longer strangers. Amen.

SAVE THE DATE - EMERALD DINNER DANCE - 17 MARCH 2018 

The girls also had the opportunity to prepare, cook, style and photograph their chosen food trend as part of their assessment task. They experimented with angles, lighting, props and editing to produce the perfect shot to feature on the front cover of a 'delicious magazine'.

The girls were also fortunate enough to have the opportunity to share their magazine covers with the editor in chief of 'delicious magazine', Kerrie McCallum. Kerrie reviewed each cover and provided the girls with some feedback on their layout, colour and styling techniques. “You have to get inside people's minds when you shoot, style and design a cover and really try to think about what your audience wants at that time of year (rather than what you personally want to see). This is the constant challenge of editing as you are always thinking about other people and trying to anticipate what they may want to see next”.  She also awarded 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd place covers from each class. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Kerrie McCallum for taking an interest in this project and for providing the girls with such valuable feedback.

10FT1

1^st – Teresa Sheppard

“The attention to detail was good, and we could tell there was effort in the composition and effort to light the food well and style against a tropical backdrop for summer.”

2^nd – Rhiannon Odewhan

“There was an effort made for strong composition, and food styling…..the cover lines on this recipe read really well, they were strong and right for our audience.”

3^rd – Natalie Worley

“The structure of the cover, and the typography was really strong. The shot was bright, which is also important and the composition spot on.”

10FT 2

1^st – Payton Ivancic

“There was obvious effort to look 'delicious' with the styling elements, photography and little extra touches were strong……The recipe was innovative - but still adhered to our mantra of 'impressive but effortless.’”

2^nd – Brigid O’Sullivan

“This cover was modern and interesting and is something we would be more inclined to run on delicious.com.au or on social media, which is very important.”

3^rd – Stephanie Ellsmore

“There was thought behind the styling and composition of this cover, with clear space for coverlines and creativity behind the set up.”

Olivia Matti and Maree Durrington - Food Technology Teachers

The Portal will provide another avenue of communication between the College and families. This communication is targeted information about your child. Some of the features include:

-A heatmap to track attendance explanations
-The ability to explain absence reasons and send notice of absences in advance.
-Data relating to your daughter's progress and awards
-Timetable information – support your daughters planning and organisation by knowing when particular subjects are scheduled and her subject teachers details.

We look forward to bringing new features as they become available. 

Debra Bourne - Leader of Elearning and Library Services

The 2018 Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program continues in 2018. Students in Years 7, 8 and 9 are asked to bring an Apple iPad as standard school equipment. Students in the Senior School (Years 10 – 12) are able to bring a suitable device of their choice. This can be a tablet or a laptop computer. Students can bring either Mac or Windows-compatible devices. Chromebooks are not recommended (contact the College if you are considering a Chromebook).

To further assist students, the College has worked with JB Hi-Fi implementing a JB Education BYOD Portal.  Access the JB Hi-Fi portal here - https://www.jbeducation.com.au/byod and use the school code: spcbyod2018.

Please note that families are to make their own decisions regarding the purchase of a device. The JB Hi-Fi portal can be used to purchase a device online, or as a guide for types of devices and suitable specifications. Other options for iPad purchase include the Apple online store, Harvey Norman and Big W. Another alternative is Alpha IT Solutions – a local business in Smeaton Grange. Alpha IT is an Apple Authorised Reseller with a focus on education. Devices can be ordered online. Garth and his team are happy to help any families with questions regarding devices or with technical support.

Families who need support in meeting the BYOD requirements are encouraged to contact the College and speak to the Business manager, Mrs Tessa Gooch (tgooch@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au).

Further information about the BYOD program is on the College website http://www.saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au/academic-care/learning-technologies. Feel free to contact Mrs Bourne if further information is required (elearning@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au)

Debra Bourne - Leader of Elearning and Library Services

In addition to showing off all our spectacular Campaign Booths, we had the fortune of listening to guest speaker, Peter Sheppard, who is the Campbelltown Catholic Club Director of Culinary Development. He provided us with a deeper understanding of food insecurity and how the issue is being addressed at a local level.

The last day of Term 3 also included a fundraising ‘Hunger Banquet’ developed by Oxfam. It involved being randomly categorised into three groups: high class, middle class and lower class. Each class was fed accordingly, representing what food security is like in our world today. The 10 girls in the highest class were given options for lunch and served by waiters/waitresses (our lovely HSIE staff) while seated up on the MSC stage using silver cutlery and plates. Our middle class was given two slices of bread, butter, two fillings of their choice with chairs to sit on while the lower class was given a piece of lettuce, rice and an eating area on the floor of the MSC. This was a very thought-provoking part of our day. For information regarding the Hunger Banquet visit - Oxfam Hunger Banquet

Our Geography incursion was an extremely valuable and engaging day where everyone was able to take part and be involved. Year 9 would like to thank the HSIE teachers for all their support and guidance, as well as a special mention to Mrs East for all her behind the scenes work to ensure our Geography day was possible.

Jarian H - Year 9 Student

See a snippet of our rehearsal here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQ4CMPQmiog 

A Performance of "Let it Be" here: https://youtu.be/Bf5W6EAUf1w

Thanks to Zara H, Sarah M, Minduli T, Karina M, Ines H, Molly Q, Grace K, Jorina Z and Karly B for representing the College so beautifully all weekend. 

Elizabeth Samyia - CAPA Teacher

This year’s recipients were the three women, Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi who started the #Blacklivesmatter movement. One of the three, Patrisse, along with Canadian activist  Rodney Diverlus spoke to us, and their words were truly inspiring.  Students heard of the importance of finding out what is going on in their local community first and offering support and care at a local level. Overwhelmingly, we learned that the movement is one of love, and that peace and justice cannot exist without each other.

Thanks so much to Payten for leading, organising and performing with the girls: Janaya, Kayla, Claire, Shakiya, Mackenzie,  Bella,  Natalie,  Brenna, Alix and Bianca, whose performance was magnificent, and to our social justice envoys,  Rachel,  Kate,  Grace, Molly, Lois, Anita  and Emily who gained so much from the speeches and presentations.

Here are a couple of responses from the girls themselves:

“Today was one of the most raw, inspiring and extraordinary experiences I have ever had the privilege to partake in. I think I speak for all the girls when I say we walked away as different people.” – Kate

“This was an amazing experience for me as I have never attended one in the previous years. I was very inspired about what the Peace Prize award winners had to say about “Black lives matter”  I really appreciate the chance that I got today,  I hope that I get the chance to attend another Peace Prize awards celebration in the future” -  Breanna

“It was an overall incredible and awakening experience. Carving deeper into the surface understanding of why “Black Lives Matter” was a definite eye-opening opportunity, and an absolute honour to perform at the special occasion”. – Bianca

“Engaging in Sydney Peace Day really gave me more of an insight into the #Blacklivesmatter movement and I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to attend. It was such an engaging day, and performing alongside other St Pat's girls with Aboriginal heritage with the support of the Cabramatta community really demonstrated the significance of this campaign” – Mackenzie

“The Peace Day at Cabramatta was innovative and inspiring. I’m glad I got the opportunity to experience and celebrate cultural and racial differences in such an amazing way.” – Molly

"It was an absolute privilege to attend the annual Sydney Peace Prize at Cabramatta High School today. The recipient of this year’s award was the founder of the #BlackLivesMatter movement Patrisse Cullors, along with her co-worker Rodney Diverlus, the leader of the Canadian chapter.

This year, our attendance was extra special as the St Patrick’s College Aboriginal dance group performed as part of the #blacklivesmatter proceedings. It is more important than ever that we as students come together and fight for such an important and pressing cause." - Rachel - Social Justice Captain

Thank you to Cabramatta High for offering us your warm hospitality and making St Patrick’s such an integral part of Peace Day this year.

Marguerite Pulham and Kevin Quigley

Dear Parents, 

I am pleased to announce that St Patrick's College will be involved in the 2018 Space School International Study Program. Through our partnership with the Alliance of Girls Schools Australasia, our students have the unique opportunity to join other students from participating Alliance of Girls Schools Australasia schools on this once in a lifetime, STEM-based experience at NASA in the USA.

Recognising the challenges facing young students today, where the change of pace in society over the next 30 years will outpace the change we have experienced in the past five thousand years. Seventy five percent of the fastest growing occupations in Australia will require STEM related skills and an expected 50% of current jobs will disappear.

By empowering students through this unique STEM program, they will master the STEM related skill set to prepare them for their future. Students become more focused, inquisitive to pursue the subject they are interested in through the unique access to NASA facilities, inspiring guest speakers and training programs, while learning a foundation of personal and leadership skills to apply through their school years and beyond.

This program is designed to develop leaders for the next generation, aims to inspire and ongoing interest in STEM; empowering and preparing our students for the fastest growing and most sought-after occupations of the 21st century.
A fantastic opportunity to learn beyond the classroom in the most inspiring environment.

There is a one-hour information session about this international study program to be held on Monday 13 November 2017 at The School Hall, Domremy College (Host School). To RSVP CLICK HERE

Highly recommended by previous students and parents whom have participated in this international study program, view their testimonials and insight into the experience at Space School.

Junior Space School Expedition
Senior Space School Expedition
Testimonial
actura.com.au/alliance

This is a once in a lifetime experience. I encourage you to attend this evening information session and I look forward to your attendance.

Sue Lennox
Principal

The impromptu section took the form of questions about the impact of social media and the urban development of the Macarthur region, while Natalie’s prepared speech explored the role of history in navigating the complexities of the present. Thank you to Lions Campbelltown for their enduring support of the local youth and congratulations Natalie. We are all very proud of you.

Marguerite Pulham - Debating/Public Speaking

Year 7-9 Basketball

Katarina S, Arden D, Evana S, Briana C, Piper A, Rahni W, Elizabeth C, Jessica L, Charlotte F and Elisha L. Coach Mrs Nash.

Year 7-9 Cricket

Bindi F, Dhani F, Brooke K, Stephanie M, Minduli T, Jermaine D, Victoria J, Rebecca O, Rachel W, Lillie B, Eilidh C and Jessica R. Coach Mr Davis.

Year 7-9 AFL

Alex F, Paris H, Sarah P, Tara B, Cody D, Ruby D, Loretta T, Jessica A, Miriama K, Janaya B, Kira J, Alysha B, Jade W, Ellie F and Emily P.

Year 10-11 Softball

Jorja B, Isabelle M, Emma S, Molly O, Ashley F, Stephanie E, Melinda S, Emily M, Natasha T, Olivia F, Teresa S, Tia B and Emma G. Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

The St Pat's girls had a mixed day, finishing the day with 3 wins and 4 loses, however, the girls showed dramatic improvements throughout the day. Of note was the increase in overall confidence and the way in which they attacked the ball. A big factor in this improvement was the supportive and patient approach from team coach Mr McGrath who did a fantastic job with the girls. Special thanks must also go to College Sports Captain Ana C who acted as an assistant to the carnival convener and did a fantastic job, as well as the Giants AFL organisation who were sensational in their support of the event.

The Giants will once again be testing a number of girls from the schools within the Macarthur region at an AFL combine being held at the College on 7 November which will assist to identify girls that have the potential to transition into the professional female AFL league. A very exciting opportunity for females to make inroads into the professional sport arena.

The 2017 AFL team consisted of Alex F, Paris H, Rahni W, Tara B, Ruby D, Dahni F, Loretta T, Jessica A, Jessica R, Janaya B, Kira J, Alysha B, Jade W, Ellie F, Emily P and Ruby B.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Special congratulations must go to Ruby D who won the Gold Medal in the 400m and Katarina S who won the Gold Medal in the Shot Put. An amazing achievement. Well done girls.

I must also mention Mercedes S who also recently won a state Gold Medal at the NSW All Schools Athletics Championships in the Long Jump. Another amazing performance.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Year 7 Netball – 1^st Place (Undefeated)

Charlotte F, Olivia Z, Amala A, Lucy O, Bianca R, Ella F, Katarina S, Ashlee P, Elisha L, Grace K and Maddison M. Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Year 7 Oz Tag - 1st Place

Bridie L, Olivia S, Irene M, Jessica A, Tahlia M, Tavara S, Lily M, Jade J, Brynn W, Ashalea W and Stella B. Coach Mr David.

Year 8 Netball – 1^st Place (Undefeated)

Evana S, Piper A, Hannah S, Kassandra S, Briana C, Chantel S, Jazmyn D, Maya B, Veronica W, Lily W, Hannah P and Georgia R. Coach Mrs Nash.

Year 9-12 Soccer – 2^nd Place

Paris B, Tara B, Kiarra B, Annalise C, Ana C, Tahnee D, Emma G, Lily M, Andrea M, Emma O, Molly O, Julia P, Kate R, Sally S, Amy S, Kayla W and Harriette W. Coach Mrs Tacca-Baudana

Year 10-12 Volleyball – 2^nd Place

Emma L, Anita P, Eseta R, Lyliann V, Samantha J, Uini V, Astes A, Esther M, Dryandra M and Florence V. Coach Ms Cornett.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

All Welcome 

3 November - Year 7 & 11 Big Night In
6 November to 8 November - Yer 10 Examinations
8 November - Guest Speaker Madonna King
8 to 10 November - Year 8 Camp
10 November - Year 11 Chemistry Excursion
13 November - Year 7 Vaccinations
14 November - Year 7 2018 Pre-Orientation Day, Year 12 Sign Out Day
15 November - College Assembly
16 November - Year 7 2018 Orientation Day
17 November - Year 10 Social, Annual CDF Sports Awards, Year 7 - 12 AIME Excursion
21 November - Sports Assembly 
24 November - Year 10 Community Service Incursion, Middle School Dance
27 November - Year 10 Readiness Program "All My Own Work"
28 November - Year 9 Middle School Ceremony (Year 7 - 9)
29 November - Creative Arts Night
30 November - Year 10 PDHPE Excursion
4 December - Parent "Thank you" evening
5 December - Awards and Assembly, End of Year Mass, STUDENTS FINISH FOR 2017
31 January - Year 7, 11 & 12 Return for Term 1
1 February - Year 8, 9 & 10 Return for Term 1