St John's School Roma eNewsletter

Principal's Address

Thank you for your patience and assistance in reorienting students back into school mode during these first few disrupted weeks. Despite the challenges, our school community has continued to thrive, packing a week's worth of events into shortened weeks. I am truly impressed with how our staff and students have coped.

The 2025 school formal was a wonderful and successful event, despite a minor hiccup with the lighting in the car park. This event marks the first of many rites of passage for our Year 12 students. In my speech to the Year 12s, I referenced one of my favourite psychologists and authors, Steve Biddulph. Steve emphasises the importance of rites of passage, as everyone needs moments that acknowledge growth and change on their journey from youth to adulthood.

Throughout history and across cultures, these rites have taken various forms. For example, the ancient Spartans put their young men through the Krypteia, where boys were given a knife and sent to hunt a fierce enemy or wolf. In parts of Africa, young men and women are pierced and scarred to mark the transition. While we won't be sending our Year 12s to take down a pig or get inked, our milestones—such as the Year 12 Emmaus retreat, graduation ceremony, and dinner—serve as our gentle yet vital way of saying, "You’re ready." Without such markers, Steve warns that young people can drift into prolonged adolescence, potentially resulting in your thirty-five-year-old son or daughter still living at home, expecting their dinner cooked and washing done. That’s not the future any of us wants.

We look forward to continuing to walk through these rites with our Year 12s in their final year of schooling.

MTSS Update

As discussed in previous newsletters, our primary professional development focus for staff in the coming years will be MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support). The MTSS committee has been formed at school, and we are beginning to upskill our staff in research-backed, effective, and least-intrusive strategies that help improve both observable and internal student engagement. As stakeholders in our students' education, it is important that we have a clear understanding of these aspects of student engagement. I found the following diagram exceptionally useful in illustrating what we aim to improve. Staff are learning specific strategies to reach students experiencing difficulty in maintaining engagement in one or more of the quadrants.

SRIP

St John’s School is scheduled for a School Renewal and Improvement quadrennial school review from Monday, 2 June 2025 to Thursday, 5 June 2025. The Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office has a School Renewal and Improvement framework in place, which includes a quadrennial school review. In this review, a panel consisting of senior staff from the Toowoomba Catholic Schools (TCS) Teaching and Learning Directorate and a peer principal from another school in the Diocese will visit the school for three days.

Through a process of appreciative inquiry, panel members will interview staff, parents/carers, students, and community members. They will ask, “In your opinion, what is going well at the school?” and “What could be done better?” The purpose is for the panel to report its findings to the school community and suggest improvement strategies. These will inform the process of strategic plan development and the annual action plans, which are also linked to the TCS Strategic Plan.

The aim is to assist schools in strategically planning to improve teaching and learning, and these reviews occur in all TCS schools. The review team would like to hear from the school community, and I encourage anyone interested to have their say. Your feedback is important and will help us continue to achieve the two pillars of TCS: that all students will come to personally know Jesus and that all students will achieve academic success.

Feedback can be provided to the review panel in person or by telephone. All feedback remains confidential. Please register your interest in being part of this process by completing this form or scanning the QR code below. A member of the administration team will then contact you to determine a time for your interview closer to the review date.

Cheers,

Mark

Beyond the Gates - Upholding our School Values

Dear Students and Families,

A warm welcome back to school for Term 2! As proud members of our St John’s school community, our students play a vital role in representing our shared values wherever they go. Wearing the school uniform signifies our commitment to these principles within the school grounds and the wider community.

Behaviour Matters Everywhere

It is important to remember that actions taken while wearing the school uniform reflect not only on our students as individuals but also on our entire school. Misbehaviour while in uniform—whether outside school grounds or within—is subject to the same consequences outlined in our school policies. This consistent approach ensures fairness and accountability, helping us uphold the standards that define our community and maintain a culture of respect, responsibility, and integrity wherever we are.

Community Expectations

We urge all students to be mindful of the impact their conduct can have on others. Whether traveling to and from school, attending off-site events, or simply spending time in the community, we ask that you embody the values that make our school a place of pride. Respect for yourself, others, and your surroundings should always guide your behaviour.

Let’s Represent Our School Well

St John’s has a wonderful ‘name’ in the local community. Together, let’s continue to be ambassadors of excellence and respect. By embracing our shared responsibility, we can continue to create a positive image of our school wherever we go.

I appreciate your cooperation in maintaining our school's reputation and values.

Kind regards,

Ryan Doig

Deputy Principal

What's on this Fortnight

The People’s Pope – Pope Francis

As many of you may know, the leader of our Catholic Church, Pope Francis, died over the Easter weekend.

Pope Francis was a special leader in our Church. He didn’t wear a crown or live like a king. He smiled a lot, rode in a little car, and loved meeting people, especially the poor, sick, and children.

He told us that being kind is more important than being important. He reminded us to care for our Earth—because it's our home, and God made it.

He showed us that we should never ignore someone who’s hurting and that we should always choose love. Pope Francis believed in young people, like we do at St John’s. He believed young people can do great things, even small things, to make the world better—things like saying sorry, helping a friend, or standing up for someone who’s left out.

Now Pope Francis is with God in heaven, but we, as members of St. John’s community, can continue his mission by being kind, brave, joyful, and full of love, just as he was.

Trisha Parker

Assistant Principal: Mission and Identity

Holy Week and Fr Tom farewell

During Week 10, St John's School held a moving liturgy based on the Stations of the Cross, revisiting the events of Holy Week. Students and staff participated in this solemn journey, reflecting on the passion and crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The liturgy transitioned beautifully into the resurrection story, celebrated on Easter Sunday, a hope-filled narrative that resonates deeply with all Catholics. This powerful story of Jesus rising from the dead brings a message of hope, renewal, and eternal life.

We also take this opportunity to extend our heartfelt best wishes to Fr Thomas Duncan, who has resigned as parish priest of All Saints. Fr Thomas has been a reliable presence in our community, and we are grateful for his service. We pray for his continued spiritual growth and fulfilment as he embarks on a new journey. May God bless him abundantly in this new chapter of his life.

Introduction to Fr Salvador, MSFS

Hi Everyone,

I want to introduce myself formally. I am Fr Salvador Fernandes, MSFS, the relieving Priest at the All Saints Catholic Church, Roma. I am happy to serve the parish and school in May. I will be here to fill in for the former Parish Priest, Fr Thomas Duncan, and the newly appointed Parish Priest, Fr Antony Arockiam, who is on holiday during May.

I am originally from Goa, India, and have been a priest for 37 years. I have also been a teacher and a school Principal for 21 years. I will be available at the Parish presbytery for all services and will listen if anyone wants to talk to me. I speak English, Hindi, Konkani and French, and I’m happy to teach you basic French for $2.50 a session if anyone would like to upskill in this area.

I look forward to meeting everyone over the next few weeks.

Regards,

Fr Salvador Fernandes, MSFS

Life in Prep

ANZAC DAY

Last week, Mr. Jason Bellert came to visit us to talk about ANZAC Day. He told us that ANZAC Day is a special day when we remember the brave soldiers from Australia and New Zealand who helped fight for our country in a war. He explained that it is important to think about how brave they were and how they looked after each other. We learnt that ANZAC Day is a day where we remember all the soldiers who kept our country safe. Thank you, Mr Bellert, for coming to visit us and sharing your knowledge about such an important day.

CROSS COUNTRY

Last week, the Preps had their very first experience participating in a cross-country event, which was exciting and new for them. They ran two laps around the oval, enjoying the fresh air and the chance to be active with their friends. Even though it was their first time, the Preps showed great enthusiasm and did their best to complete the race. Parents and teachers were proud to see the Preps giving it a try and having fun during their first cross-country race. Well done, Preppies!

Year Six Hits the Ground Running!

Just two weeks into Term Two, Year Six has not wasted any time diving into exciting learning experiences and school-wide events.

Last week, we had the privilege of hearing from Rachel Downie, the founder of Stymie, who delivered a powerful presentation on the cycle and impact of bullying. Her words left us with plenty to reflect on and sparked meaningful conversations about empathy and kindness.

We also swapped our school shoes for sneakers, donned our house colours, and powered through the annual cross-country event! It was a fantastic display of determination and school spirit, with everyone giving their all to conquer the course.

This week, we’ve hit full stride in our Term Two units. In Maths, we’re tackling fractions, building our problem-solving skills before moving on to percentages and discounts later in the term. English will see us crafting dynamic, multi-modal reports as we investigate the Boxing Day tsunami—an opportunity to sharpen our research and writing skills.

Our science lessons promise plenty of thrills as we explore Earth’s forces and earthquakes, discovering how our planet shakes, rattles, and rolls. Meanwhile, Religion will challenge us to think deeply about social justice issues and Catholic social teachings, prompting important discussions about fairness, compassion, and making a difference in the world.

It’s been a fast-paced start to Term Two, and we can’t wait to see where our learning takes us next. From real-world maths to earth-shaking science, there’s plenty to look forward to!

Year Seven STEM

This term, we have had a great time experimenting with hydraulics and pneumatics. We had a blast creating our own hydraulic designs and testing them using syringes and other materials. We began the term by being introduced to our class and our topics. We were then challenged to build our hydraulic claw from a kit to pick up items and rotate with them. As we progressed further into the term, we designed our own hydraulic machines. Next, we set about creating our hydraulic machines. We experimented with different parts and started to build our machines. It was a fun challenge, and finally, we completed our designs and began testing them.

Year Seven Digital Technology

Year 7 to 10 Science

It has been a busy start to the year for students in all grades studying Science. Below is a summary of the enjoyable activities from Term One:

Year 7 Physics

Term One was an exciting journey for our Year 7 students as they explored the fascinating world of science. This term, the focus was on forces—the invisible pushes and pulls that influence everything around us.

Students explored how forces impact motion, from simple everyday interactions like kicking a ball to more complex concepts such as gravity and friction. Through engaging experiments, they discovered firsthand how balanced and unbalanced forces affect movement, and how Newton’s Laws explain the behaviour of objects under various conditions.

One of the term's highlights was the hands-on investigation, where students built a balloon-powered vehicle to test Newton’s Third Law.

Year 8 Biology

To start the year, our Year 8 students explored the building blocks of life—cells—and how they come together to form complex body systems. From microscopic investigations to interactive models, students developed an understanding of how organs and tissues work together to keep organisms functioning.

A standout moment was the sheep pluck practical, where students examined real animal organs, including the lungs, heart, and trachea. This hands-on experience brought anatomy to life, allowing students to observe structures up close and witness firsthand how different systems interact. Many were amazed by the structure of the lungs and the internal complexity of the heart.

With a solid foundation in cells and body systems, our Year 8 students are ready to delve deeper into other scientific disciplines in the upcoming terms. Their enthusiasm for scientific discovery has created a fantastic start to the year!

Year 9 Physics

Exploring Energy and Its Mysteries: A Term of Discovery in Year 9 Science

This term, our Year 9 science students have explored the fascinating world of energy transfer, using both wave and particle models to understand how energy moves through different mediums. From investigating the behaviour of light and sound waves to examining how particles carry thermal energy, they have gained insights into the strengths and limitations of each model in explaining real-world phenomena.

In addition, they have tackled the law of conservation of energy, analysing how energy inputs, outputs, transfers, and transformations impact system efficiency. Through experiments and problem-solving activities, they have explored ways to optimize energy use, whether in mechanical systems, electrical circuits, or even everyday appliances.

We look forward to seeing how they build on these foundations in the weeks ahead.

Year 10 Earth & Space Science

This term, our Year 10 science students have embarked on an exciting journey through time and space, exploring the origins and evolution of the universe through the lens of the Big Bang theory. By examining how this model explains the universe’s expansion, the formation of galaxies, and the cosmic microwave background radiation, students have gained insights into the compelling evidence that supports this foundational theory of modern cosmology.

Closer to home, they have investigated the interconnected systems of our planet: the geosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere. They were then able to analyse patterns of global climate change. They have explored solutions for mitigating climate change and adapting to its impacts through data analysis and scientific reasoning.

This term has been filled with inquiry, deep discussions, and hands-on learning, equipping students with the tools to understand both the vastness of the cosmos and the delicate balance of Earth’s systems. We look forward to seeing where their curiosity takes them next!

Stay tuned for more exciting updates from our young scientists.

Year Nine Visual Art Hunt for Art in the Community

Our Year 9 Visual Art class has just finished experimenting with hand-colouring our Australian Icon etchings. As a culminating activity for the term, on Thursday, 3rd April, we went on a ‘Hunt for Art’ in our community. The journey took us to the Roma Community Arts Centre, where we explored the exhibit on display in the Roma on Bungil Gallery and the Walk of Art. We also had the opportunity to witness U3A artists working in Studio 5. Thank you to the U3A Folk Art group for allowing us to roam around Studio 5. We appreciate how they showed us and explained some of the different mediums and techniques they use to create their art. It was interesting to see the various styles of art, including ‘The Art of Small’ exhibition in the gallery. The variety of paintings and sculptures we discovered around town was eye-opening, from ‘It’s in the Genes’ at Roma Saleyards to the mural and Racehorse and Jockey sculpture at Bassett Park. Thank you to Mr Corkett for driving us on the tour and to Mrs Moloney for organising it.

ANZAC DAY 2025

St John’s School commemorated ANZAC Day this year with a liturgy service at school and an impressive turnout for the community march and service. Students from Prep through to the secondary school also produced wreaths to be used in the liturgy and for our adopted school trees lining Heroes Avenue.

Over 100 students and around 20 staff members marched along the streets of Roma towards the Cenotaph on ANZAC Day. Our students from surrounding towns also participated in marches in Muckadilla and Mitchell. A special mention must be made of the 21 St John’s students who attended the Rising of the Sun Service at Muckadilla Cenotaph. Henry Crocker read a family reading from a diary. Hugo Loughnan did the opening prayer, and Charlotte and William McDonald laid the school wreath. Thanks to the students and attending teachers, particularly April Loughnan, for organising our students for this service.

Students represented our school at the Cemetery Service held by the Roma Historical Society. Year 11 student Bridget Bell delivered the commemorative address, while school officer Lily Ferrier and Year 3 student Layla Leard laid the school wreath during this service.

In both the liturgy and the marches, it was great to see our students engaged in ANZAC Day's meaning. A special congratulations and thank you go to Mr. Vincent Kwan, who played the Last Post in splendid fashion, and to Henry Pollock, Brooke Harvey, Locke Williams, and Daniel Tucker, who were the catafalque party during the liturgy. The reverence shown by our school community highlights the deep understanding of the importance of this day to our nation. It instils a strong sense of pride and confidence that our students will continue to honour members of the armed forces, both past and present. Lest we Forget.

Lily Ferrier and Layla Leard at the Cemetery Service

Bridget Bell delivering the Commemorative Address at Roma Cemetery

Year 12s leading the Roma March, St John’s school during the Roma March, School Leaders, Ethan Ewert and Erica Cranston, laying the school wreath

Jack and Jed Kenny at one of our school bottle trees along ‘Heroes Avenue’

St John’s students at the Rising of the Sun Service at Muckadilla

St John's Mother's Day Stall

MothersDay2025.pdf

Career Development

Career Development Week: Inspiring Futures for Students

In the last week of Term One, our school was buzzing with excitement as students in Years 7, 8 and 9 took their first steps toward future career success.

For our Year 9 students, the First Steps to Senior program was an incredible opportunity to explore career possibilities through workshop rotations. By engaging in a variety of activities, students developed essential skills and learned more about the pathways available to them as they prepare for their senior years. The program encouraged students to consider their aspirations and the steps needed to achieve them.

Meanwhile, our Year 8 students participated in a dynamic off-campus experience, travelling to the LEVEL UP Career Expo at the PCYC. This special event, organised by the Country University Centre Maranoa with support from Griffith University, UniSC, UniSQ, and QUT, offered structured activities designed to help students explore different career options, university pathways, and future employment trends. With interactive sessions and firsthand advice from professionals, students left inspired and better informed about the possibilities ahead.

Year 7 students attended a workshop conducted by UniSQ, where they explored their characteristics, strengths, and values, and how these relate to a career. Students utilised the activities to write their own personal career statements.

All three programs offered valuable opportunities for students to explore career interests, connect with experts, and build confidence in their future direction. A huge thank you to our staff, guest speakers, and university partners who contributed to making this week a success!

We can't wait to see how our students continue to build on what they've learned.

Click on the link below for a snippet of the Level Up Expo at the PCYC

https://youtu.be/cdGuHwzZn10?si=w-0iihimfBP37tLb

Work Experience Term 1

Congratulations to the students who completed a Work Experience Placement at the end of Term 1 with various businesses across the Maranoa.

Thank you to the following employers for your support, time and experience offered to our students.

Jacob Cox	C J Houston Construction and Fabrication
Ethan Donaldson	Booringa Electrical
Alex Freeman	RDO Equipment St George
Mac Hewitt	B & M Hewitt Family Trust (Agriculture)
Grace Hooper	Roma Veterinary Clinic
Faith Iseppi	Roma Veterinary Clinic
Ryan Kinsley	Wild Desert
Carter Livermore	Sharpe Engineering Pty Ltd
Mitch Nixon	D & R Motorcycles
Hudson Thomas	Dores Elect-Air Pty Ltd
Penni Walsh	St John’s School – Prep classes
Tom Irwin	Roma Plumbing
Lola O’Brien	Watkins & Company
Lola O’Brien	“Echo Hills”

Enrichment Night

Easter in the Country

This year, St John’s School brought the magic of the ocean to life during the Easter in the Country Parade, proudly promoting our upcoming musical production, "The Little Mermaid, Jr."

A sea of blue filled the streets, as students marched with colourful displays of marine life - from jellyfish to starfish, clownfish to seahorses, and even sharks, turtles, and dolphins.

We extend our thanks to everyone who participated in and attended this event during the school holidays. Your support and school spirit have helped us make a splash in the community—an incredible reflection of St John’s pride!