St Saviour's College Newsletter 2025 - Term 3 Week 2
Principal
Making Space for What Matters Most
In Sunday’s Gospel, we hear the familiar story of Martha and Mary, two sisters who welcome Jesus into their home. While Martha busies herself with all the practical tasks of hospitality, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet, simply listening to Him. Frustrated, Martha asks Jesus to step in and tell Mary to help her. But Jesus gently replies, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her.”
It’s a story that speaks deeply to the times we live in. Many of us can relate to Martha, the to-do lists, the responsibilities, the sense of pressure to do more and be more. But this Gospel invites us to reflect on the kind of presence Mary offers: one of stillness, attentiveness, and deep listening.
Jesus doesn’t scold Martha for her service. Instead, He reminds her, and us, that amidst the busyness of life, we are called to make space for what matters most. Sometimes the most faithful thing we can do is to pause, to be present, and to simply listen.
As a school community, may we find the balance between action and reflection, and may we never lose sight of the “better part”, time spent nurturing our faith, our relationships, and our inner peace.
Arts Showcase Success
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” – Thomas Merton.
If you were lucky enough to be in the audience on Wednesday night, you’ll know exactly what he meant.
Our Arts Showcase Concert was nothing short of extraordinary, a full celebration of all things creative, colourful, and courageously performed. From the harmonies of the choir, to our confident soloists, our talented musicians, filmmakers and the ever-entertaining drama club, the evening was a glorious reminder of the power of the arts to stir the soul (and occasionally make you cry into your program).
Add to that a stunning gallery of student artworks, featuring everything from pencil sketches, lino prints to full-scale canvases and you’ve got yourself a night where the creative spirit of our College truly shone.
I offer my heartfelt congratulations to all our performers. It takes guts and determination to take the stage and you did it with humility and grace.
Of course, none of this magic happens without a huge team effort. Congratulations to our Curriculum Leader – Arts and Performance, Mrs Jenni Potter, and heartfelt thanks to the arts staff Kara Jensen, Rhody Nilon, Berni Gray, and Wendy Collins.
To those working behind the scenes and in the biobox and backstage, thank you. Your tech wizardry and calm-under-pressure presence helped everything run like clockwork.
I also extend my gratitude to you as families who support your daughter’s pursuit of the arts and the support of her when she takes to the stage. May we continue to be a community that celebrates creativity, takes joy in expression, and always finds time to clap a little too loudly for the final bow.
Jessica Wade
Principal
Deputy Principal - Teaching and Learning
Academic Awards – Thursday Week 3
At St Saviour’s College, we believe in celebrating success because recognition inspires growth and reflects our commitment to excellence - one of our core values. Acknowledging the hard work and achievements of our students encourages everyone to strive for their personal best and fosters a positive learning community.
This Thursday, following the Grandparents Day Mass, we will hold the Academic Awards Ceremony in the College Hall. Families of student recipients have been emailed invitations and are warmly encouraged to attend and share in this special celebration.
The awards recognise outstanding academic achievements from Semester One, reflecting the diverse journeys our students undertake. The criteria for the awards are based on the percentage of A grades earned: a Bronze Award is given for 30% As, Silver for 50%, and Gold for an impressive 80% As.
We look forward to celebrating the dedication and success of our students as they continue to pursue excellence in their academic journeys.
Subject Selection – Year 8, 9 and 10 students
A big thank you to all the students and families who attended the subject selection evening on Monday. It was wonderful to see such a great turnout, showing your commitment to making informed choices for the coming year.
Students in Years 8, 9, and 10 have now been emailed the online subject selection link. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity by consulting with their teachers, curriculum leaders, our careers team, and reviewing the subject handbooks that were also emailed earlier this week.
As students make their choices, it is important they take time to self-reflect, considering their strengths, passions, and interests, while also thinking about how their selections align with future goals and potential post-school pathways.
Please remember that subject selections must be completed by the end of Week 3, Friday 1 August. We wish all students the best as they plan their academic journey ahead.
Eleighta Hannam
Deputy Principal
Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Engagement
It’s been wonderful to see our students return this term with such enthusiasm and energy, ready to embrace the many exciting activities and opportunities ahead. With several year levels facing a busy schedule, maintaining routine and structure becomes especially important. These habits not only support academic success but also help our teens navigate the more stressful moments that can arise throughout the term.
To support families during these times, we recommend exploring resources from ReachOut, a trusted organisation dedicated to youth wellbeing. Their Stress and Teenagers (Stress and teenagers | Life skills and challenges) page offers practical advice and insights tailored to the challenges young people face.
One particularly helpful article to explore in the coming weeks is:
👉 Stress Management Techniques for Teens – a great guide to building resilience and coping strategies: Stress management techniques for teens | Stress and teenagers
Student Voice Shaping Our School: Insights from the SRC Feedback
As part of our ongoing commitment to student wellbeing and engagement, our Student Representative Council (SRC) recently led a powerful initiative to gather student feedback on what makes our school great, and how we can make it even better.
Students were invited to reflect on four key questions and a summary of the results are below:
1. What are all the things I love about my school? The most common responses celebrated friendships, supportive teachers, and the wide range of activities, from sports and choir to carnivals and clubs. Many students also highlighted our inclusive community and the welcoming atmosphere, with a special shout-out to the tuckshop and popular facilities like the library and gym.
2. How does this school make me a better person? Students shared how our Mercy values of kindness, compassion, and integrity help shape their character. Many noted improvements in confidence, communication, and academic focus, thanks to the nurturing environment provided by staff and peers.
3. What could I do to make my time better here at school? Responses were thoughtful and constructive. Students expressed a desire to get more involved in extracurriculars, improve study habits, be kinder, and seek help when needed. It’s inspiring to see such self-awareness and ownership of their school experience.
4. Wouldn’t it be great if at school… This question sparked imaginative and hopeful ideas. Students suggested more flexible uniform options, enhanced facilities (like a senior room, swimming pool, microwaves, and indoor eating areas), and more engaging events such as spirit weeks and socials. There were also calls for academic flexibility and continual focus on mental health.
We’re proud of our students for sharing their voices so openly and thoughtfully. Their feedback is already helping guide our planning for the coming terms.
Supporting Digital Wellbeing: Qustodio Parent App Now Available
In line with our commitment to student wellbeing, we’ve rolled out the Qustodio Parent App last week, a powerful tool that allows parents to manage their child’s school laptop and one personal device outside of school hours.
By linking your account to your child’s device, you’ll gain valuable insights into their online activity and access tools that promote healthy digital habits. Key features include:
✅ Content Filtering – Control which websites and content categories your child can access.
✅ App & Game Management – Block distracting or inappropriate apps.
✅ Custom Schedules – Set rules for different times of the day (e.g., Homework or Bedtime).
✅ Internet Pause – Temporarily turn off internet access outside school hours.
✅ Activity Reports – View search history and online behaviour.
✅ Expert Advice – Receive guidance from professionals on digital wellbeing.
To set up your account, please email me directly. We also encourage families to explore our Online Safety Hub, which offers expert reviews and resources to help navigate the digital world. Two recommended reads include:
- Discord App Review – A helpful guide for parents unfamiliar with this popular platform: https://ssctwb.onlinesafetyhub.com.au/parent/reviews/discord
- “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt – A compelling look at the impact of technology on young people: https://ssctwb.onlinesafetyhub.com.au/parent/articles/the-anxious-generation-trending-research-from-online-safety-experts
Together, we can continue to build a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for all students, both here at school and online.
The eSafety Commission is offering a series of free live webinars designed to equip parents and carers with the tools and knowledge to support safe and positive online experiences for their children. Topics include:
- Recognising online coercive control in young people's lives
- Understanding AI companions: What parents and carers need to know
- AI-assisted image-based abuse: Navigating the deepfake threat
- The changing face of cyberbullying: Protecting your child in 2025
- Understanding and using parental controls to help protect your child online
- Sexual extortion: What parents and carers need to know
- Exploring the online experiences of boys and young men
These sessions are a fantastic opportunity to stay informed and empowered in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Visit the eSafety Commission website to register and learn more: Webinars for parents and carers | eSafety Commissioner
Megan Schulze
Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Engagement
Assistant Principal - Mission and Identity
NAIDOC Week – “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”
This year’s NAIDOC Week theme inspired us to honour those who came before us, listen to the voices of the present, and embrace our role in shaping a future built on strength, vision, and legacy.
Our celebrations began with a powerful Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony led by Shannon, reminding us of the sacredness of gathering on Country and the importance of deep listening. Students reflected in reverence as we were welcomed into space and story, acknowledging the ongoing connection First Nations peoples have with this land.
During our NAIDOC Week Assembly, we celebrated the talents and leadership of our First Nations students. We proudly acknowledged Ashayla, who was named Toowoomba NAIDOC Artist of the Year, a remarkable recognition of her creativity, cultural expression, and contribution to community.
We also celebrated the literary gifts of Abigail Lasserre, whose poem, written as part of her studies at St Saviour’s, has been selected to be read at the upcoming QATSIF Graduation Ceremony. Her words speak powerfully of resilience, identity, and hope, and we are incredibly proud of her achievement.
Also during the week, our Year 11 Retreat on Australian Spirituality provided a time of reflection and connection to Country. Students were guided by Mrs Carmody in quiet reflection before joining Mr Carmody at the Gumbi Gumbi Gardens for a traditional smoking ceremony and storytelling. At Picnic Point, overlooking Meewah, students listened to the story of Multuggerah, a warrior who united clans in defence of land and culture. As one student reflected:
“That moment gave us a sense of strength and perspective. It helped us understand that spirituality is also about justice, courage, and standing firm in who we are.”
These experiences will be shared more widely in an upcoming assembly presentation featuring retreat photos and the song Multuggerah, written by Paul, Cortay, Manson and Kev Carmody.
Catholic Education Week – “Communities of Faith, Hope and Love”
Aligned with the 2025 Jubilee theme Pilgrims of Hope, this year’s Catholic Education Week invites us to reflect on our journey together as people of faith, living in hope, and acting with love.
Throughout this week, we are reminded that Catholic education is not simply about learning, it is about formation. We walk alongside each other as pilgrims: grounded in Gospel values, open to growth, and committed to community.
Our celebrations include:
- Grandparents Day Mass on Thursday, 31 July is a special opportunity to honour the faith, love, and wisdom of those who came before us. During this celebration, we will also acknowledge our Catholic Education Week Award recipients and nominees, recognising their contribution to our College community.
- Bishop’s Inservice Day on Friday, 1 August, a student-free day for staff to gather with colleagues across the Diocese. This day provides valuable time for spiritual formation and professional renewal as we continue to grow in our mission as Catholic educators.
Together, these weeks have reminded us that we are part of a story bigger than ourselves, grounded in Country, shaped by faith, and moving forward with hope. May we continue to walk with courage and compassion as we honour the legacy we’ve inherited and shape the future yet to come.
Rosies Outreach – Term 3 Initiative
As part of our continued commitment to service and compassion, Term 3 sees the launch of our Rosies Outreach Appeal, supporting those who are homeless or at risk in our local community.
Each Homeclass has received a donation basket inviting students to contribute warm items such as:
- Blankets
- Cup noodles
- Muesli bars
- Tins of soup
- Toiletries (particularly in need of deodorant)
- Gloves or socks
This collection forms part of our ongoing partnership with Rosies – Friends on the Street, where students and staff also volunteer their time to attend outreach evenings. These experiences allow us to practise the ministry of presence, showing up with warmth, dignity, and kindness.
Our Youth Ministry team has also supported the launch of this initiative, preparing resources and encouraging student engagement across all year levels.
We are proud to see our College community living out the Gospel in practical ways. Thank you for your generosity and support.
Leah Dempster
Assistant Principal - Mission and Identity
Sports news
Student Achievement
Sarah Castle (Year 7) Emily Castle (Year 9) Emma Norman (Year 9) and Hanisi Pene (Year 7) are a wonderful group of Mercy Girls representing TNA at the 4th Interdistrict Carnival which was held at Highfields on Sunday. The girls have been training extremely hard since January and have their last carnival including finals at Nell E Robinson on Sunday, 17 August.
High Jump will be conducted as a pre-carnival event, meaning we will not be running this event on the day. Please attend the jumping sessions during break times before the carnival. Due to time constraints please only attend if you are serious about High Jump.
Do you have a record? Do you know someone who does have a record? Check out the attached records to check.
Information for Darling Downs Athletics is now available. Students who are interested need to see the Sports Office for paperwork and details.
Date: Thursday 21 & Friday 22 August 2025
Thursday 21 August – The Glennie School Track for all track events
Friday 22 August - O’Quinn St Oval – Field Events
Nominations close at 3.00pm on MONDAY 11 AUGUST 2025.
THIS MUST BE ADHERED TO
No Late Nominations will be accepted.
Please note the following PAYMENT PROCEDURES $22.00 GST inc. per competitor. Competitors will need to go to the www.ddschoolsport.eq.edu.au and click on the Online shop by Thursday 14 August to pay the nomination fee. Students cannot compete if payment has not been made.
Upcoming Sports
- Saturday Netball Season 2025 Continues
- Tuesday Night Volleyball Term 3 Continues
- Monday Night Soccer Final Rounds
- Red Lion Cup Soccer
- AFA Champions of Champions Futsal
- QSF Gala Day 3 Futsal
Greg Leathart
Curriculum Leader Sport and HPE
Arts and Performance news
Celebrating Creativity: SSC Biennial Arts Showcase 2025
On Wednesday 23 July, the Callaghan Centre at St Saviour’s College came alive with colour, sound, and creativity as we welcomed our community to the Biennial SSC Arts Showcase, a celebration of the incredible talent and dedication within our Arts programs.
The evening featured over 75 students performing across a vibrant array of disciplines, including choir, vocal solos and duets, dance troupe, drama club, and dance solos, duets, and small group performances. The audience was also treated to a showcase of Media Arts projects throughout the evening and a stunning Visual Arts gallery that transformed the space into a true celebration of student expression.
Guests enjoyed a delicious BBQ provided by the Interact Club with support from the Toowoomba Rotary Club, a well-stocked canteen run by the Student Representative Council, and warming hot beverages served by our talented Hospitality students.
This event would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of our staff and volunteers. Special thanks go to:
- Mrs Jenni Potter – Event coordinator and vocal performance director
- Ms Elizabeth Bennett & Mrs Adele Sretenovic – Dance preparation
- Mr Rhody Nilon – Rock Band direction
- Ms Kara Jensen – Drama Club and bio box operations
- Mrs Wendy Collins – Media Arts coordination
- Ms Caitlin Devenna – Visual Arts gallery curation
- Mrs Berni Gray – Bio box support
- Vince from Veetone – Technical assistance
- Narinder Loi, Michelle Reid & Interact Club – BBQ
- Megan Schultze, Ann Young & SRC – Canteen
- Kim Koosache & Hospitality Students – Hot beverages
- Sarah Raftery & Steph Bauer – Marketing, programs, and photography
- Chris Blomquist, Jens & Grounds Team – Hall setup and logistics
- Marni Leppien & Student Crew – Stage management
- Ella Petrie – Assistant Director
- Kylie Parker – Piano tutor and accompanist
- Dhriti Shah – Cultural Captain and MC
- Keasharn Sands-Hart – Acknowledgment of Country
- Claire Eckersley – Photography
The Biennial Arts Showcase was a true testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and community. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this unforgettable evening. We are so proud of our students and the vibrant Arts culture we continue to build at SSC.
Choir Captains Shine in Mary Poppins Youth Production
During the June/July school holidays, our talented choir captains, Sophie Moore and Penny Sanders, participated in the Toowoomba Choral Society’s Youth production of Mary Poppins. This highly regarded program invites over 100 students aged 10 to 18 from across the region to take part in an intensive two-week rehearsal period, culminating in two public performances at the Empire Theatre.
The production is known for its exceptional quality and professional-level execution, and this year was no exception. Sophie and Penny embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and skill, contributing to a truly memorable show.
We are incredibly proud of their commitment, creativity, and leadership both on and off the stage. Congratulations to Sophie and Penny on this outstanding achievement!
Jennifer Potter
Program Leader Arts and Performance
Careers Centre
Welcome to Term 3!
TAFE at Schools
Expressions of Interest for 2026 TAFE at School programs is now open. To submit an Expression of Interest for a 2026 TAFE at School Program, students will need to visit tafeapply.com. Enter the expression of interest code that matches the campus and program that they’re interested in. These codes can be found via the button below.
Following the finalisation of all 2026 program details, email offers will be sent to students and their parents/guardians during Term 4. Each offer will include a response deadline - it is important that students reply by the date, or their place may be offered to someone else.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the relevant TAFE at School Team at South West GOTAFE.SouthWest@tafeqld.edu.au
University Open Days are all about helping you get a feel for what it would be like to study at a particular university. As such, they’re often a combination of general information sessions, more specific subject area presentations, and a showcase of all the uni has to offer by way of facilities and recreational or lifestyle programs.
Scholarships
Remember to keep checking university websites for information about when scholarship applications open and close:
- Scholarships | Bond University | Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- National Tertiary Scholarship – Public Education Foundation
Competitions
Crikey! Magazine Photography Competition 2025.
Close Date: 31 August 2025. Crikey Magazine Photography Competition - Australia Zoo
Horizon Academic Essay Prize
Close Date: 13 July 2025. Horizon Academic Essay Prize - Horizon
Further information and help
Remember to look at the resources and information available on the St Saviours College Toowoomba (stsaviourscareers.com.au) website and also students and parents are welcome to contact or make an appointment to discuss any of the above and other career related information with Mrs Delahunty any time.
Louise Delahunty
Career Development Practitioner
Library news
Welcome
It is hard to believe that Term 3 is already upon us and so much is happening this Term! In our library it is our big celebration of all things literary. Two main celebrations this Term:
Library and Information Week and Book Week
Our culminating celebration of Book Week is always a big week and everything we do beforehand leads us to this celebration of literature. Book Week will be celebrated in Week 6 and the theme is “Book an Adventure” and we will be transforming our library around this theme, so come on down and check it out closer to the date.
Our Book Week quiz will be held on Wednesday during sport in the Hall for Years 7-9, sorry Year 10s you will be on your conference.
This is also a dress-up day for all years with a gold coin donation going to Indigenous Literacy Foundation – there will be more on this in the next newsletter.
This will be a very busy but fulfilling Term, and here in the library we are anticipating a great response to all the activities and competitions we will be running through the term.
What’s happening in the Library?
Library and Information Week
This year it is all about the idea that literacy matters. And so the theme for Library and Information Week is: To Read or Not To Read: Literacy Matters. Reading is a vital skill for any Australian to have and nurture but we know that it is not always that easy to be able to sit down and read and the idea of whether ‘to read or not to read’ goes beyond the individual choice. There are constant barriers that many Australians face, including socioeconomic circumstances, learning needs, the varied literacies that exist in our society today, access to books and/or technology, time in the ever-demanding world around us all impact on our individual ability to choose to read.
Libraries are key and paramount in traversing the chasms of these barriers and ALIA (Australian Library and Information Association) is dedicating its Library and Information Week to shining a light on how they do this. ALIA looks into research around reading practices, how libraries support communities in areas of adult literacy, media literacy, multicultural engagement, digital inclusion and more.
ALIA (Australian Library and Information Association) are putting on some events during this week (all information retrieved from the ALIA website:
Program of events through ALIA
Monday 28 July 12pm – 1pm AEST via Zoom
Event Description: The choice “to read or not to read” has never been more critical for Australia. With literacy rates slipping and barriers mounting, from economic hardship to technological disruption, accessibility issues, and competing demands on our time, the stakes are high and the questions are big: How do we navigate AI’s disruption while protecting creators? What global forces are reshaping our literary landscape? And most importantly, how do we turn the tide on declining literacy?
In this webinar, experts from ALIA, ASA, APA, and Australia Reads—key players in Australia’s book industry committed to building a reading nation, will address these questions and share insights, research, and bold visions for sustainable change. Learn how well-resourced libraries, supported authors, and innovative community programs can transform reading access across the country. Panelists will also explore how advocacy strategies and fresh approaches are championing reading initiatives that will safeguard our democratic future. (Retrieved directly from https://www.alia.org.au/EventDetail?EventKey=LIW25ADV) Register from this link as well – free for ALIA members, $22.00 for non-members.
Friday 01st August 12pm – 1.15pm AEST via Zoom
Event Description: This panel brings together media literacy experts to discuss how public cultural institutions can build on traditional literacies to support young people to access high quality information online, identify misinformation and produce high quality, ethical and fact-checked content. (Retrieved directly from https://www.alia.org.au/EventDetail?EventKey=LIW25DIG) Register from this link as well – free for ALIA members, $25.00 for non-members.
Book Week
Watch the 2025 CBCA Book Week Theme announcement:
New Books in the Library!
Another round of new books on display – come in and check them out!
New Books Collection – Fiction and Graphic
Non-Fiction Collection
Date Claimers:
28 July - 3 August – Library and Information Week
16-23 August – Book Week
20 August – Book Week Quiz and Dress up. Gold Coin donation for Indigenous Literacy Foundation
“When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young.” — Maya Angelou (American memoirist, poet, and civil rights activist)
Andrea King
Teacher Librarian
Humanities
Exploring Justice in Action: Year 11 Legal Studies (Hybrid) Excursion to the Supreme Court Library
On Friday 18 July our Year 11 Legal Studies and Certificate IV in Justice Studies students embarked on an enriching excursion to the Supreme Court Library in Brisbane. We met up with our Legal Studies cohort for our Hybrid learning class, St Joseph’s College, Stanthorpe. This immersive experience offered students a unique opportunity to witness the legal system in action and deepen their understanding of justice in practice.
Schedule Highlights:
- Legal Talk:
The day began with an engaging legal talk delivered by our host Emma from the Supreme Court Library. Students gained insights into the structure of the Queensland legal system, the role of the courts, and the importance of legal research in professional practice by participating in a scavenger hunt around the display in the Sir Harry Gibbs Legal Heritage Centre. This exhibition was based around the different aspects of jury service.
- Viewing Court Cases:
Students then attended live court proceedings, observing real cases unfold in the Supreme and District Courts. This firsthand experience allowed them to see legal principles applied in real time, enhancing their classroom learning with practical context.
- Lunch Break:
After a morning of intense learning, students enjoyed a well-deserved lunch break, with time to reflect on the cases they had witnessed and discuss their observations with peers and teachers.
- Research Talk:
The afternoon concluded with a research-focused session in the Supreme Court Library. Students were introduced to legal databases, case law archives, and research techniques essential for both academic and professional success in the justice field.
This excursion not only reinforced key curriculum concepts but also inspired students to consider future careers in law and justice. We thank the Supreme Court Library staff for their hospitality and expertise and commend our students for their enthusiasm and professionalism throughout the day.
Special thanks to our groundsman Jens who braved the early morning to drive us to Brisbane and then braved the traffic to bring us back to Toowoomba.
Chris Grierson
Curriculum Leader - Humanities and Religious Education
Tuckshop News
New Menu Now Available
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Tuckshop menu, available now! Packed with fresh, tasty and nutritious options, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From classic favourites to exciting new additions, we can’t wait for you to try it all. We look forward to seeing you throughout the Term.
If you have any special dietary requirements, please see Barb and the team.
Please Note: The tuckshop will be CLOSED for first break WED 30 JULY.
McAuley House News
Welcome back to all our girls and families for Term 3. This weekend we had the first of our planned activities with 13 girls heading off to see Jurassic World: Rebirth at the movies over the weekend. Provided the weather is kind, this weekend will be our “Fire Pit Fun” and next Friday 1 August we are all off to Seaworld on the Gold Coast.
The staff have been working very hard to ensure that we have something planned for every weekend over this term.
This will be our last full Term with all our girls in attendance as Year 12 will celebrate their formal in Week 10 and then, depending on exams, are only here for a few weeks in Term 4, and before you know it, we will be concluding Boarding at McAuley House and bidding farewell to you all.