St Ursula's College Newsletter 2025 Term 3, Week 8
From our Principal
This term we have focused on the value of compassion, a virtue aligned with the charism of St Angela Merici, who taught that love and care for others must be expressed through action. Angela’s legacy reminds us that every person is worthy of dignity, kindness, and belonging. This call to compassionate service is not just a historical ideal; it is a living invitation for each of us—students, staff, and families—to see others with the eyes of love and respond with open hearts.
This message resonates powerfully with the Social Justice Statement released by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference this past weekend, titled “Signs of Hope on the Edge.” The statement urges us to encounter those experiencing homelessness and mental ill-health not as problems to be solved, but as people to be embraced. At church on Sunday, Father BJ reminded us that everyone has a place, and that our society is strongest when we ensure no one is left behind. It is a principle we hope is reflected in our school community. We are called to be signs of hope—champions of compassion who build a culture where every person is seen, valued, and belongs.
Click on this link to read the Social Justice Statement, “Signs of Hope on the Edge.” https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/2025/08/06/signs-of-hope-on-the-edge-social-justice-statement-2025-2026/
It is fortuitous that this should be the message this week, as I reflected on the amazing privilege it was to support two of our Year 11 girls in their message of hope and love. On Monday of last week, we joined together to launch the book, Unyielding, a memoir written by Emma Stinson, about the life of her friend and school mate, Banazir Ameen.
I share the words spoken by Mrs Sandra Searston, as she welcomed those who gathered to the launch.
It’s an honour to welcome you to this important gathering – a moment where we pause to listen, reflect, and recognise the extraordinary power of student storytelling.
Today, we are here to witness a memoir written by one of our Year 11 students, telling the story of another – a peer whose life has been shaped by unimaginable hardship and resilience. This memoir explores the experience of escaping the Yazidi genocide, a chapter of history that is both painful and urgent, and one that deserves to be heard.
I’ve had the privilege of reading this memoir, and I can tell you it’s not just a story – it’s a voice. A voice that speaks of survival, identity, and hope. A voice that reminds us that behind every statistic or headline is a human being, with dreams, fears, and a story worth telling.
Student voice is not just about expression – it’s about connection. It’s about giving young people the space to share their truths, to honour each other’s experiences, and to build empathy in our school community and beyond. This memoir does exactly that. It is brave, compassionate, and deeply moving.
The purpose of today’s event is to celebrate that courage. To acknowledge the strength it takes to write, and the strength it takes to be written about. And to remind ourselves that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have for healing, understanding, and change.
Thank you for being here. Let’s listen with open hearts and minds and honour the voices of our students.
I am equally proud that Emma and Banazir accepted the offer to visit our Catholic Primary Feeder schools to share their journey, Emma of her work as an author, and Banazir as part of sharing her story as a refugee; all part of their combined efforts to raise awareness, encourage compassion and spread a story of hope and love. Well done girls, you are inspirational, and a wonderful example for courageous and compassionate young women.
So far, the girls have visited both Holy Name and Sacred Heart Primary schools. In Week 10, we hope to make it to Our Lady of Lourdes and St Mary’s College. Please support their message by purchasing a copy of the memoir.
Maxwell Power
It is my pleasure to share the news from Christle Power (Cash) that her new baby boy has arrived safely, on Friday 22 August. Maxwell Power is settling into life at home very well and both mum and bub are doing well. We congratulate Christle and Elias on the arrival of the newest member of their family.
As I wish you well for the fortnight ahead, I do this from Charleville, where Mrs Elyce Ruhle, Mr James Darlington and Ms Lydia Pickard are delivering a number of workshops across Touch, Soccer and Dance, as part of our “Go West” Tour. This partnership came at the request of St Mary’s Charleville who struggled to find providers for particular specialty areas, and so we have offered a program to the students across Prep to Year 6; as well as a number of Soccer Workshops, Playing Soccer the Liverpool Way, delivered by our Head LFCIA Coach, Mr Darlington.
I hope it is the start of an ongoing partnership with our schools that are out west.
Finally, following feedback from our community and the priorities that have been articulated in “Strive”, our Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2029, the College has announced that we will run a bus from 2026 from Oakey, via Kingsthorpe and Gowrie Junction. It is the first phrase of adding this service to support our families. Please contact Mrs Lisa McKellar, if you would like to know more about the service, or lodge an interest in securing a seat for 2026.
I appreciate the endorsement of the Parents and Friends Association Executive.
Following my article, I have included information about Child Protection Week; and the important role of parents in having conversations about online safety.
Have a great fortnight,
Deidre Young
Principal
Child Protection Week
The theme for Child Protection Week this year is a follow on from last year’s theme of “Every Conversation Matters.” As parents and carers, conversations between you and your children are vital – you are the most important people in your child’s life to advocate for them, listen to them, and share messages of safety and support.
This year during Child Protection Week we encourage parents and carers to speak with their children about their understanding of safety and their support networks. In particular, we encourage parents to educate themselves and have conversations with their children about online safety – an area we know that is a growing risk for our children and young people. You can access useful resources about online safety on the eSafety Commissioner’s website here: The hard-to-have conversations | eSafety Commissioner
Our students, last week, were provided with a sticker with a QR code that links to our Toowoomba Catholic Schools website, to a webpage containing links to external support services (such as Headspace and Kids Help Line) as well as a reminder about our School Student Protection Contacts. You can view the webpage here.
Should any student be concerned about how they are being treated by an adult, or another child or young person, they are encouraged to speak up to a trusted staff member or one of our School Student Protection Contacts (SSPCs). All students were reminded who our SSPCs are, and that they are depicted on the ‘Keeping Safe’ posters located around the school.
Child Protection really is everyone’s business, and we are committed to making our school a safe, secure, and protected place of learning for every student.
Deputy Principal
The return of the blue and white stripey dress is always a gentle reminder that spring has arrived- even if the crisp mornings still whisper of winter. Living in Toowoomba, spring is a season I look forward to with anticipation. Watching my garden burst into color fills me with hope, awe, and amazement. What seemed dormant just weeks ago is now alive with beauty and the promise of growth.
This sense of renewal mirrors what we see in our students, especially as we enter Week 8 and the final stretch of Term 3. Our Year 11 and 12 students bunkering down, preparing for Unit 2 assessments and External Mock Exams. Their focus, determination, and quiet resilience are inspiring. We wish them all the best over the coming weeks and encourage them to take moments to study outside, to breathe in the season, and to step away from distractions like mobile phones and social media. These weeks are not just about results- they're about growth, reflection, and building confidence. It’s about striving for progression, not perfection.
How Do We Support our Students?
Feedback: A Shared Journey
As students work toward completing key learning tasks, feedback becomes a vital part of their journey. At our College, we see feedback as more than correction – it's a conversation, a guide, and a source of encouragement. It helps students grow not just academically, but as thoughtful, resilient learners.
We understand that feedback can be complex. For students, it can be both motivating and challenging. For teachers, it requires care, clarity, and responsiveness. And for families, it can raise questions about how best to support learning at home.
What Does Feedback Look Like?
Feedback takes many forms- spoken, written, digital, and increasingly, through emerging technologies. It might be a quick suggestion during a lesson, a detailed comment on a draft, or a conversation about learning goals. When students submit drafts, teachers provide feedback that helps them refine their ideas, clarify their thinking, and strengthen their work. It’s not about giving answers- it's about guiding students.
Exploring AI in Feedback
In some areas of the College, we are currently trialing the use of AI tools to assist in providing feedback. These tools can help teachers identify patterns in student work, suggest improvements in structure or clarity, and offer prompts for deeper thinking. AI doesn’t replace the teacher – it supports them, allowing for more timely and targeted feedback and freeing up time for rich, human conversations about learning.
For students, this means they may receive feedback in new formats and potentially more quickly- helping them act on it while their ideas are still fresh. We are approaching this trial thoughtfully, ensuring that any use of AI aligns with our values and supports meaningful learning.
How You Can Support at Home
You play a vital role in helping your child make the most of the feedback. Hear are a few gentle ways to support them:
- Ask what feedback they received and how they feel about it.
- Encourage them to talk through their next step.
- Celebrate effort and progress, not just the final result.
- Remind them that learning is a process- and drafts are part of that journey.
Just as spring reminds us that growth takes time, feedback reminds us that learning is a journey. Together, we can help our students see feedback not as judgement, but as a gift- an opportunity to grow, improve, and flourish.
God Bless
Bernadette
KEY DATES/INFORMATION:
YEAR 12:
- Week 8 & 9: Mock External Exams
- These are written by QCAA and are a great way to prepare for the real exams in Term 4. I encourage students to make the most of this opportunity as those who have done so in the past have been able to apply learnings and achieve success in their final exams.
YEAR 11:
- Week 9 – Unit 2 Exams and assessment. These exams and assessment are mandatory. It is important that any absences are accompanied with an AARA.
- Tuesday 23 September – Unit 2 Report Cards will be available through Sentral.
YEAR 10:
- We are heading into the final stages of subject selection for Year 11 2026. On Tuesday the 2 September I will be talking with all Year 10 students about:
- Line structure- what is being offered when
- Subjects being offered
- Their selected subjects
Year 7-9:
- Assessment time.
- Year 8 into 9 and Year 9 into 10 2026 Subject choices are now being reviewed as we start to build the 2026 Timetable.
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care
Social Media: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
In today’s digital age, social media plays a significant role in the lives of young people. It offers opportunities for learning, connection, and creativity, but it also presents risks that can affect mental health, relationships, and personal safety. As educators and parents, it is essential to understand both the benefits and the dangers of social media so we can guide our children toward responsible and respectful online behaviour.
The Digital Me report, released by the Australian Psychological Society in 2017, revealed that 79% of teenagers are highly engaged with their mobile phones, spending an average of 3.3 hours per day on social media across five or more days each week. Alarmingly, 15% of teens reported being contacted by strangers daily, and 29% had experienced some form of cyberbullying in the previous year. These statistics highlight the urgent need for digital education and emotional support. This data is almost 10 years old and so we can presume that these statistics would have increased over this time.
At St Ursula’s College, we respond to these challenges by embedding digital wellbeing into our curriculum. Through Wellbeing lessons and Pastoral Care sessions, students are taught how to navigate social media safely and ethically. We aim to create a culture where students feel empowered to speak up about negative experiences and seek help when needed.
Social media is not inherently harmful. In fact, when used thoughtfully, it can enrich students’ lives in meaningful ways:
- Learning new skills (e.g. tutorials on hobbies or academic topics)
- Accessing information quickly for research and study
- Discovering new products and trends
- Staying connected with friends and family
- Offering and receiving emotional support
- Promoting awareness of important issues (e.g. mental health)
- Participating in civic engagement (e.g. fundraising campaigns)
However, there are also common pitfalls that can interfere with healthy development and relationships:
- Oversharing personal content, which can become intrusive or annoying
- Difficulty engaging in face-to-face conversations due to constant phone use
- Mindless scrolling that leads to screen fatigue
- FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) triggered by others’ curated posts
- Posting inappropriate content while in school uniform
- Feeling isolated despite having many online “friends”
- Liking posts without fully understanding or agreeing with their message
More concerning are the behaviours that cross into harmful territory. These include:
- Sharing sensitive or private information publicly
- Excluding others or engaging in trolling
- Humiliating peers through memes or jokes
- Sharing explicit or illegal content
- Threatening or intimidating others online
- Posting violent or self-harm-related imagery
- Uploading photos of others without consent
- Publicly complaining about school, work, or individuals
Research has shown that heavy social media use is linked to increased risks of depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. These are serious issues that require attention and compassion from both educators and families.
As parents, you play a vital role in reinforcing healthy digital habits. Some key messages to share with your daughter include:
- Be kind online
- Think before you post or send
- Use the “What would Grandma say?” rule
- Adjust privacy settings to protect personal information
- Don’t accept friend requests from strangers
- It’s okay to tell a trusted adult if something feels wrong
For further support, we recommend exploring these resources:
By working together, we can help our students become thoughtful, resilient, and respectful digital citizens—ready to thrive both online and offline.
Mrs Maria Gibson
Assistant Principal Mission and Identity
Year 12 Retreat: A Time to Reflect, Reconnect, and Rejuvenate
From Monday 25 to Wednesday 27 August, our Year 12 students embarked on their final school retreat at the beautiful Maroochy Waterfront Camp. Blessed with sunshine and nourished by delicious meals, the retreat offered a peaceful and reflective space for students to pause and consider their journey at St Ursula’s College.
The theme for this year’s retreat, “I will serve,” invited students to reflect on how they have grown during their time at the College and how they hope to contribute to the world beyond graduation. Through heartfelt stories shared by staff and thoughtful small group discussions, students explored their past, embraced the present, and looked ahead to the future.
Highlights of the retreat included meaningful liturgies, creative mandala activities, and moments of affirmation where students uplifted and encouraged one another. These experiences fostered a deep sense of connection and community, reminding students of the strength and support they have in each other.
As they prepare to face their mock exams, the retreat served as a timely opportunity to recharge and refocus. One student summed it up beautifully: “This was the best excursion or camp I’ve ever been on.” Such praise is a testament to the dedication of the staff who thoughtfully plan and lead this transformative experience.
The Year 12 Retreat continues to be a cherished milestone in the life of our College, shaping not only memories but also hearts ready to serve.
Joe Kelly
Student Free Day Reminder
Director of Sport
Darling Downs Track and Field Carnival
Congratulations to all students who competed in the Darling Downs Track and Field Carnival this week. A special shoutout to the following students on their outstanding results:
· Bethany Moore-Kirkland, 1st 1500m, 2nd 400m, 2nd 800m, 1st 3000m Race Walk setting a new record of 15.04.
· Emillia Hoey, 3rd 1500m
· Lucy McMillan, 3rd 200m, 3rd Long Jump
· Elliza Moore-Kirkland, 1st 400m, 1st 800m, 1st 400m Hurdles.
SWANS Schools Cup
Over a thrilling six-week period in Term 3, our teams took to the field for the annual Swans Schools Cup Touch competition—a vital lead-up competition designed to give players valuable game-time experience ahead of the QLD All Schools Championships in Term 4.
This year, we proudly entered four teams: three Under 15 squads and one Open team. Each team showed tremendous growth, sharpening their skills and building strong team chemistry throughout the tournament.
A special shout-out goes to our Under 15 A team, who delivered a standout performance across the competition. Undefeated from start to finish, they capped off their campaign with a nail-biting 4–3 victory over Fairholme in the Grand Final. Their determination, teamwork, and resilience were nothing short of inspiring.
Congratulations to all players and coaches involved—your hard work is paying off, and we can’t wait to see what Term 4 brings!
Community Sport – Australian Futsal Tour
Annalyce Jackwitz is representing Australia in Brazil!
As part of the U15 Australian team on the AFA tour, she’s played multiple matches against local Brazilian teams—scoring the first goal in their opening game! With mixed results on the scoreboard, the team has shown great spirit and skill.
The tour has been an incredible experience, filled with tactical training from Brazilian coaches, cultural immersion, and even a visit to the Confederation Brazil Football facility. Annalyce is learning, growing, and thriving - on and off the court!
Community Sport - National Cross Country Championships
Bethany Moore-Kirkland has once again proven her athletic prowess, representing Athletics Queensland at the National Cross Country Championships held in Ballarat. Competing in the 5km race walk event, Bethany delivered a stellar performance, securing second place with an impressive time of 26:06.
Her result is a testament to her dedication, discipline, and growing reputation in the race walking circuit. With each stride, Bethany continues to set the pace for young athletes across Queensland, and her silver-medal finish in Ballarat adds another proud chapter to her sporting journey.
Congratulations, Bethany—your hard work and determination are truly inspiring!
Football
This term saw our football teams take on a trio of exciting competitions, showcasing determination, teamwork, and steady improvement across the board.
We kicked off with the Local Interschool Competition, held on Monday afternoons. After a series of competitive matches, our team finished 6th overall, gaining valuable experience and building strong foundations for future games.
Next up was the UHL Sport Cup, where our squad made an impressive run to the semi-finals. Despite a hard-fought match, we were narrowly defeated by Brisbane State School, who went on to the final.
Our final challenge came in the SSI Red Lions Cup, where our junior team shone brightly. They battled their way to the Plate Final and emerged victorious, capping off the season with a well-deserved win.
Congratulations to all players for a fantastic term of football. Your hard work and sportsmanship continue to make us proud! A special mention goes to Lucy Ryan and Lucy Dyson, who have been dedicated members of our Football program since Year 7. Over the past six years, they’ve consistently represented our teams with passion, resilience, and leadership. As they graduate from the College, we thank them for their outstanding contributions and wish them every success in their future endeavours.
Colour Fun Run
We’re excited to announce our upcoming Colour Fun Run (Thursday 18 September), a joyful and energetic event where students will run, walk, or skip through bursts of colour—all while supporting a meaningful cause.
This year, we’re proud to be raising funds for the Royal Flying Doctor Service’s Wellbeing Out West program, which provides crucial mental health and wellbeing support to families and communities in rural and remote areas of QLD.
The Colour Fun Run is not only a celebration of movement and fun, but also an opportunity for our students to learn about giving back and supporting others. We encourage families to get involved by helping students gather sponsorships or donations, with all proceeds going directly to RFDS.
More details about the event schedule, what to wear, and how to contribute has been sent home via Edsmart. Thank you for helping us make a colourful impact for a cause that truly matters.
Training Days and Times
Gym for General Fitness (FREE) All abilities welcome, focusing on improving general strength and fitness, run by Fitlab. |
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| Rugby League |
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| Touch Football |
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| Football |
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| Basketball |
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| Netball |
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| Volleyball |
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Mrs Elyce Ruhle
Head of Faculty: Arts
Sydney Dance Tour
Our Sydney Dance Tour is done and dusted for another year! Some great Arts experiences for our Senior Dance Troupe in Sydney including rehearsal time at Bangarra Dance Theatre, competing at DanceLife Unite, two classes at Sydney Dance Company and a night at the theatre. A fantastic close to the competition season for our troupe!
Arts – What’s Happening
- Clay Club: Mondays after school
- Scene Project at UniSQ: Friday 12 September
- Choir performing at First Nations Mass (St Patrick’s Cathedral): Friday 10 October
- Music Awards on Assembly: Thursday 16 October
- Dance Night: Friday 17 October
Miss Lydia Pickard
Careers and VET Pathways
University Applications
It is certainly an exciting time for our Year 12 students with QTAC and other interstate tertiary admission centers now open. It is important that the students are aware of any additional entry requirements and/or early closing dates for some courses. Students are reminded to check their personal email accounts (including their junk mail) for correspondence from QTAC that may require action.
University scholarships are also beginning to open, and I encourage all students considering university to check individual institution websites for information. There are many scholarships for rural, regional, and remote students to help with the costs of university, from tuition fees to relocation costs.
If you would like further information or assistance with anything related to tertiary applications or pathway planning, please don’t hesitate to email me at jacqui.mcilroy@twb.catholic.edu.au. I am available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and will respond to all emails as soon as possible.
Jacqui McIlroy, Career Development Practitioner
UQ Ready, Online
Location: Online
Date: September 3, 2025
Join us for an informative night that will provide you with everything you need for a smooth transition from high school to university:
- Get advice on maximising your ATAR score and preparing for university.
- Understand the QTAC process, from application to offer.
- Hear about our diverse student support services, including mentoring, accommodation, neurodiversity support and more.
- Learn how to enrol and plan your timetable.
- Get tips for successfully transitioning from school to university.
The information will be valuable to any high school student looking to go to any university.
UniSC Headstart Information Evenings
Location: Online
Date: September 10, 2025
Join us at our Headstart Information Evening where we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the program. Headstart gives school students in Year 10, 11 or 12 a real university experience, allowing you to study first-year uni subjects and possibly receive credit to take time off your degree.
You'll also hear from Headstart students who will talk about their experience and provide tips for what to expect.
QUT Advice Night
Location: Online
Date: September 16, 2025
If you're a current Year 12 student or parent of a Year 12 student, join us online to discover the five essentials of getting in to QUT in 2026. You'll hear about:
- entry requirements
- Year 12 Early Offer Scheme (for Queensland QCE students only)
- adjustment schemes
- upgrading pathways
- scholarships.
You'll also hear from real students about their uni experience and have a chance to ask questions about their course, why they chose QUT, the QTAC process and uni life.
QTAC Student Information Night
Location: Online
Date: September 17, 2025
This session is perfect for students (and parents!) wanting to feel confident and prepared throughout the QTAC process. Don’t miss your chance to get insider advice straight from the source.
Scholarships
Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust Financial Study Support for Uni or TAFE
Value: Up to $6,000 AUD per year
Open Date: August 18, 2025
Close Date: October 31, 2025
Rosies
Amidst the grey skies on the Wednesday night shone a bright beacon of hope—Rosies Friends on the Street. Once again, our students stepped up to serve those in need with hot barbeque food and home baked goodies, bringing warmth and kindness to our local community.
Chappie Nancy, Ava Dickfos, Tahlia Lees, Anika Langton, Kago Mosako, Mrs Judy Chapman and Kate Clark
P&F News
Our P&F meetings are always held in Kerrielaw from 5:45pm. You are welcome to join us either in person or via Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent out the Monday before the meeting, or you can request the link by emailing stursulaspfa@gmail.com
Please join us for our next P&F Meeting on Tuesday 9 September.
We are desperately keen for sponsors and donations for our major fundraising event this year, the Merici Spring Supper. If you are able to donate anything, please advise the office and we'll be in touch. Thanks for your consideration.
Tahnee Coombs, P&F Secretary
Website Spotlight
📅 Access Your Daughter’s Assessment Calendar Anytime
Did you know you can easily view your daughter’s Assessment Calendar on the St Ursula’s College website? It’s a simple, stress-free way to stay on top of what’s due and when.
Just head to the LEARNING tab at the top of the homepage, then click on Assessment Calendars to find the relevant year level.
