John Therry Catholic College eNewsletter

Dear Parents/guardians,

I write this final Newsletter article of 2022 with a heavy heart. The reality of leaving john Therry is heavy upon me with the end of the school year racing towards us.

I have to say that the students are achieving such good results and have an increased belief in themselves that makes me very proud. John Therry students are as good as any in the state, they just have to believe it and work hard to achieve it. Engagement in the classroom and student behaviour has also improved greatly and is evidenced in our data.

I would like to thank very sincerely the members of the P&F over my time here. These parents care greatly for their children’s education and for the College in general. Their advice and counsel had been so important to some of our major decisions. I trust this will continue with Mr McAllister next year and welcome all parents to consider attending the meetings, one per Term in Week 8.

As we finish the school year, I also acknowledge the wonderful staff who will be leaving the College and moving to new schools. Their contribution has been greatly appreciated. To our temporary staff who have helped us out this year:- Mrs Hadley, Ms Coventry, Mr Do and Mr Burdon; in Learning Support Mr Farrant, Mrs Mora and Mrs Sharkie, a big Thank You!.

Our fulltime teaching who are leaving are :- Mr Webb, Mrs Howley, Mr Golebiewski, Ms Adams, Ms Power, Mr Jewo, Mrs Dadd, Mrs Morton, Mrs Flint, Mr Mayes, Mr Kenyon and myself. I wish to thank all of these Staff for the dedication and commitment that they have shown to ensuring that your child has a quality education. They will be missed, but as in any school their replacements will be equally as dedicated.

I thank all of our MISA coaches for their extra investment of time for their teams. We had another successful year winning nine (9) championships and being both the Boys Junior and Senior Champions. We finished second behind Mount Carmel after being the Champion school the last three years. An outstanding effort from our students.

Finally, I thank all of the parents that I have met over the last five years. Educating a child is a partnership between the home and the school. Thank you.

I wish all a wonderful Christmas break filled with happiness, family, friends and joy.

God bless, Wayne

Tuesday 13th December	JTCC Sports Assembly
Thursday 15th December	JTCC Presentation Day and JT Superstars
Friday 16th December	Jack Crawford Games Last day of attendance for students
Monday 19th December	8:45-11am - PTS Interview

As we head into the Summer school holidays and students might experiment with different hair styles and jewellery, it is important to remind students that they need to be able to rectify any changes to meet school uniform policy for return to school at the end of January.

Our Uniform policy exists for a range of reasons and is deliberately conservative to minimise pressure for students to adopt the latest trends, and minimise associated expense for parents. Students wearing their uniform correctly indicates respect for self and the community, and aims to promote a sense of connection and belonging. Some key reminders that we will be enforcing at the beginning of 2023.

The hair expectation is that there are not to be extreme variations in length, including rats tails, mullets, skullets and undercuts. The photos below are examples of hairstyles that do not meet school expectation.

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The summer holidays is also an ideal time for any additional piercings as it allows time for them to heal and be taken out on return. A reminder that on return students must be able to remove additional piercings.

The full uniform policy is available on the College website and we encourage students to check this if unsure, to minimise any unnecessary stress at the beginning of the year.

We have our Year 7-10 Parent Teacher Interviews planned for next Monday morning 19th December from 8:45am - 11am. Semester 2 reports for Year 7 to 10 students are being released this Thursday afternoon.

We understand this is a very limited window for face to face meetings and we welcome parents to contact teachers to discuss over the phone if this time does not work.

Bookings can be made in the compass app and the interviews will take place in our Library area.

If you have any questions or need support accessing compass please don't hesitate to contact the school for assistance and we look forward to speaking with many of you next week.

Yours sincerely

Brad McAllister
Assistant Principal

Yesterday was the final day of the Child Studies, Willow Tree Kindergarten Experience. Our preschool buddies joined us at our College. I was very proud of the Year 10 Child Studies class. The students demonstrated exceptional knowledge and skill when working with the preschool students. They successfully implemented a range of developmental activities that were thoroughly enjoyed by the preschoolers. There were a few unforeseen hurdles, as there always are, especially working with 4-5 year olds. By the end of the experience, students had a greater appreciation for the hard work and preparation required for a lesson. Many of the students look ready for a nap by the end of period 4!

Thank you to all who were passing by and were able to lend a hand. Steve Ryde and John Tannous came to the rescue, providing us with access to water that was needed when a "sensory experience" got a little out of control. A huge thank you to staff in the office who were able to assist students with a few last minute resources. I know the extra tasks are never easy in the rush of a school day, we appreciate all that you do!

Congratulations to the Hayley Spiteri and Audrey Parrag whose individual projects for HSC Drama were selected for inclusion in the annual ‘OnSTAGE’ exhibition. Furthermore, Willow Davies’ individual project was also nominated for selection but was not selected. ‘ONSTAGE’ represents the highest standards being achieved by students in HSC Drama. Hayley’s Directors Folio was an exploration of the beautiful play Black Diggers one that looks at the Indigenous Soldiers who fought for Australia. Audrey’s Costume Design showcases the play Stories in the Dark, where she looked at the Vietnam War and how cultural stories from Vietnam helped the children cope with the darkness surrounding them.

Congratulations to their teacher Mrs. Cascarino who had 50% of the class nominated for this prestigious Statewide Showcase event.

AUDREY PARRAG

HAYLEY SPITERI

On Thursday 1st December the HSC Entertainment class attended an exclusive Masterclass for students at Sydney's Capitol Theatre presented by one of Australia's premier companies Global Creatures. This event highlights the technical crew and their roles in industry working on the international smash musical Moulin Rouge. The event included a short performance of the opening sequence followed by each department represented by some of Australia's leading theatre practitioners discussing career pathways and options as well as their role in creating theatre magic. This sort of classroom experience provides more than any class activity. The chance for student to observe and talk to industry professionals, watch how they work and talk directly to them to see how they build their diverse careers was an experience that will be memorable for the class. Our students are still in awe of what they saw and what they can do to reach their own potential. A huge thank you to Mrs Cascarino for organising the event and JTCC for constantly supporting students learning beyond the classroom

Term 4 is a busy time in the life of a College and the members of its community.

Amidst the calls of HSC Examinations, end-of-year reports and conclusion of extracurricular activities it also serves as a time of expectation. In the lead up to Advent and Christmas the community of John Therry banded together and celebrated the spirit of the season by being generous, living out the Marist Characteristics through the preparation and presentation of Christmas hampers for our community through the St. Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal.

Over the term students, in Learning Groups, work together to gather non-perishable goods to be collated in hampers which were provided to the Nagle Centre, Campbelltown and the local Ambarvale conference.

Through students’ sense of family spirit they were demonstrating a life lived in the way of Mary, having a compassionate heart for others in their time of need. Their love of this charitable work saw over fifty baskets assembled and delivered to these communities.

Senior leaders, organised by Mason McPhee and Hayley D’Cunha, worked with their respective House groups and encouraged them to be generous and consider the needs of those in our community. Both coordinators Bec (of the Nagle Centre) and Dennis (of the Ambarvale Conference) made their overwhelming thanks known to the visiting students, sharing some stories of the need they meet and how our collective efforts have made a difference this Christmas.

John Therry, thank you for your efforts. A special thanks goes to 7 Ryan 2 who gathered in excess of six heavily-laden baskets. Well done team!

On Thursday 1st December John Therry students attended the Sydney Academy of Chess Interschool Gala Day, hosted by Cecil Hills High School.

The team consisted of Ibrahim Al Taey, Jackson Schulstad, Jaydan Diamond and Marcus Bolton, who all competed in seven games of chess against various schools in the Sydney Metropolitan area. Each game, played in the Swiss format, pitted the team against players of increasing capability.

The gentlemen earned some fantastic results amidst incredible competition, with each earning a placing in the top four positions:

Equal fourth - Ibrahim Al Taey and Jaydan Diamond
Third place - Jackson Schulstad
Second place - Marcus Bolton

These achievements allowed the team to place second overall for the day, a pleasing outcome and great conclusion to an engaging day of chess.

The team served as responsible and respectful ambassadors for their College.

Well done gentlemen.

JTCC SPORT UPDATE - Term 4, Week 8&9

John Therry has successfully wrapped up another year of MISA competitions by claiming two MISA Premierships from our 9 MISA teams. All staff and students are to be congratulated on their efforts this term. You have represented JT so well and making four finals is a reflection of the effort of the school. More information below in the team reports.

JT placed 3rd in both Junior and Senior Girls competitions for 2022, while the Junior and Senior Boys both placed 1st. Overall we were neck and neck with Mt Carmel but were narrowly defeated in the end. Again, another massive effort throughout the year and all students should be proud of their individual and team achievements.

Year 7 - SWIM SCHOOL

Students in Year 7 have successfully completed an introduction to a Water Awareness Swimming program. All students had the opportunity to complete 2 swimming sessions this term demonstrating and improving their pool awareness and swimming skills. All students are to be congratulated on their efforts and for be brave in what can be a daunting life experience.

Week 8 - MISA FINALS WEEK

Staff	Sport	Score	Report
MMH	7-9 BOYS OZ TAG	Lost 9 - 2 v MAG	GRAND FINAL A disappointing finish to what was a relatively successful season. We made it to the grand final and felt the confidence after last weeks performance but unfortunately, we were well and truly out played. Whilst we didn’t win, you should all be proud of your efforts boys. We formed a team that had never played before and got a lot of experience out of the season. We will be back next year ready to take that trophy back to JT. MVP: Cooper Tonna
MTN	7-9 GIRLS OZ TAG	Lost 8 - 3 v MCCC	3rd PLACE SEMI FINAL The score is not a representation of the style of play that the ladies brought to the field today. There was a great mixture of passing and tagging that showed the growth from multiple players. Jorja Borg had to adopt a new role and she showed great leadership to involve inexperienced players. Jorja Borg was excellent in attack and defense and has deservedly earned the MVP with a strong running Mia Leech MVP: Jorja Borg and Mia Leech-Morrison
BGO	7-9 BOYS AFL 12's	Lost 36 - 23 v MAS	GRAND FINAL The boys rocked up for the grand final after they were defeated by their opponent in the last round. Although eager to improve and compete, we started off slowly, with MAS scoring back to back goals almost immediately. We managed to settle into the game but were still behind by 3 points at the break. After some minor tweaks at half-time, we managed to get back on top and out to an 8 point lead. Unfortunately, MAS wrestled back their ascendency, kicking two late goals to win the game. It was a great, competitive game played by both sides and although we didn't manage to get the win our boys should be proud of their efforts. MVP: Sullivan O'Dwyer
SPO	7-9 GIRLS AFL 12's	Won 48 - 17 v MAG	3rd PLACE SEMI FINAL A sensational way to finish the season with our JT girls taking the win against Magdelene 48-17. Our strong midfielders were able to move the ball from the ruck straight to our forwards with some fast scoring in the first 10 minutes. A sensational effort from both Alexis Paulo and Isabella-Grace Marshall taking key marks and lead point scorers this game. Congratulations also goes out to Amelia Smith scoring her first point and also Hannah Epple who scored her first goal for our team. These girls have worked hard all season at training to improve their skills and it paid off today with a great win. Well done girls, you should all be very proud of yourselves. MVP: Isabella-Grace Marshall
PJO	10-11 MIXED FRISBEE	Won 25 - 9 v MAS	MISA PREMIERS Another cruisy victory for JT against MAS spelled an undefeated season in the 10-11 Mixed Frisbee competition. Some sloppy play mixed with mild eastern winds meant that finding the endzone was tough, however JT stepped up as usual and overcame the conditions. Excellent defence from Angus, Ella and Max ensured only 9 points scored against us. Crafty work in the middle from Emi, Mason and Riley allowed easy points for Grace, Tess and Bridget, racking up the scoresheet 25-9. Really proud of the team’s efforts this past term. Shoutout to Coach Liberty. MVP: Mason McPhee
NWN	10-11 BOYS VOLLEYBALL	Won 2 - 0 v MAC	MISA PREMIERS Congratulations to the Senior Boys Volleyball team on their outstanding win in the MISA First Division. A change of venue to ensure we played on a full size court meant we had the opportunity to perform at school - where we have never lost. The tricky wind conditions and presence of the sun made the match difficult for both teams. We adjusted better after some poor first up serves, to go on and dominate the net. All the boys should be justifiably proud of their contribution to the team. We have relied on all players at different times to scrape into third place and then perform when we had to for the semis and the final. MVP: Kisione Tupola
MHD	10-11 GIRLS VOLLEYBALL	Lost 2 - 0 v MCCC	A disappointing result for the girls today in the final losing 2-0 to Mt Carmel. They played well however they were beaten by a better team on the day. The girls took a while to warm up in the first set and that's when valuable points were lost, especially at the net. The second set was well contested with JT only going down 25-23. An impartial and objective referee could have improved our chances of a win. MVP - Maddy Skinner
ACN	7-9 BOYS IND CRICKET	Won 77 - 76 v MAS	3RD PLACE SEMI FINAL In the third place play off JT won the toss and elected to bowl first. We failed to take advantage of our chances in the field and MAS batted steadily accumulating 76 runs. The JT batting innings started off poorly with the opening pair getting zero. However, some steady batting in the middle left 38 needed off the last three overs. Nicholas Augustine managed the game perfectly. In a “Michael Bevanesque” performance, he hit a 6 off the third last ball, and then hit the winning runs in the last ball of the match. MVP: Nicholas Augustine
JAS	7-9 GIRLS SOFTBALL	Won 4 - 3 v OPAC	5TH PLACE SEMI FINAL The girls played an excellent game today. They smashed 4 home in their first innings and narrowly missed a 5th home, Darcie Bennett, third out by a literal foot. Some Excellent fielding by Kyra Crews on second and between Indy Penney, Alice Stephenson as catcher, and Sophie Regan on First made quick work of Oran Park. keeping them to 3 runs in 2 innings. The girls have grown in confidence and have gotten better each week, only narrowly losing to the other teams most weeks. I am super proud of the girls and the way they have embraced softball, some of them being the first time they have ever played. MVP: Georgia Dowse

ICONIC NERD

One of the sport options the College has used this year has been the “Iconic Nerd”, where students engage in VR Gaming via multiple platforms. As you can see from the images below, the students are actively engaged in this sport option and is a sign of things to come in 2023.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Week 9

Year 8 & 9 - REC SPORT 2023 selections

HOUSE Meetings

Week 10 - Monday 12th December

Sports Assembly Rehearsal - Period 6

Week 10 - Tuesday 13th December

Sports Assembly - Periods 5 + 6

Commencing at 1:15pm

Week 10 - Friday 16th December

Jack Crawford Games

NSWCCC Teams

Remember that there is a new way to nominate individual sports for NSWCCC. This information, including registration closing dates can be found on the website:

https://csnsw.sport/

Please note that some sports are selected by individual trials, and these can be held throughout NSW. Individual nominations require students to make their own way to and from selections.

Selection in the following sports: Swimming, Cross Country, Athletics, Touch Football, AFL (Boys) and Football are done through the Wollongong Diocese carnivals by way of representing John Therry at these respective carnivals.

Selection in the following sports: AFL (Girls), Baseball, Basketball, Cricket – Girls, Golf, Hockey, Netball, Rugby League, Rugby, Softball, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball will need to be done via individual nomination and selections.

If your child has had an outstanding high level, sporting achievement outside of school, we would love to hear from you. Please email me so we can celebrate their achievements with the JTCC community.

Yours in Sport,

Mr Jamie Cook

(cooka01@dow.catholic.edu.au)