Jubilee Year 2025 – Pilgrims of Hope

Prayer for Pope Francis

O God, shepherd and ruler of all the faithful,

look favorably on your servant Francis,

whom you have set at the head of your Church as her shepherd;

grant, we pray, that by word and example

he may be of service to those over whom he presides

so that, together with the flock entrusted to his care,

he may come to everlasting life.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Dear Parents and Carers,

Our Fete Day is finally here! The school has been buzzing with everything fete for months. Thank you parents, grandparents and friends for your generousity and support. All of our students are so excited today especially as the rides roll in and I look forward to celebrating with you from 4pm – 7pm at this wonderful SJA community event.

Hot cross buns and Easter eggs have been on the supermarket shelves and on display for a month’s now. Last week, I was privileged to be on a Principal’s Retreat with His Grace, Archbishop Christopher Prowse when Lent began on Ash Wednesday. I share with you the following reflection.

Jesus retreated into the wilderness and fasted for forty days to prepare for his ministry. It was for him a time of contemplation, reflection, and preparation. By observing Lent, Christians join Jesus on his retreat.

Lent consists of the forty days before Easter. I didn’t know until recently that we skip over the Sundays when we count the days of Lent, because Sunday is always the joyful celebration of the Resurrection.

Early societies relied on wood fires for heating and cooking, which meant that keeping ashes under control was a major task. Then as now, if a person was preoccupied with something serious, they didn’t always tend to the housekeeping (at least that’s my excuse) — it’s the least of their concerns. Ashes then became a sign of remorse, repentance, and mourning. Today someone might wear a black armband or black clothing to signify they are in mourning; back then people put ashes on their foreheads.

During Lent, ancient Christians mourned their sins and repented, so it was appropriate to show their sincerity by having ashes on their foreheads. The custom has persisted in the Church as society has changed around us. This Lent, I invite you during this period of reflection, self-examination, and spiritual redirection to lean in to your faith and support your sons and daughters during our Pilgrams of Hope journey together.

NAPLAN Weeks – Years Three and Five

This week our students commenced their participation in NAPLAN, the national literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years Three, Five, Seven and Nine sit each year. It is the only national assessment all Australian students can undertake. Students sit assessments in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. NAPLAN is just one aspect of a school’s assessment and reporting process. It doesn’t replace ongoing assessments made by teachers about student performance, but it can provide teachers with additional information about students’ educational progress.

All schools have transitioned from paper-based to computer-based assessments. All Year 3 students completed their writing on paper yesterday. Online NAPLAN tests provide more precise results and are more engaging for students. One of the main benefits is tailored (or adaptive) testing, where the test presents questions which may be more or less challenging depending on a student’s responses. Your child should not be concerned if they find questions challenging; they may be taking a more complex test pathway.

NAPLAN can be a source of stress for many students, but it doesn’t have to be. As parents I know you have been supporting your children and helping them feel confident, calm and prepared. NAPLAN is just one small part of their education journey. By fostering a positive environment, you’ll help your child approach the assessment with confidence and, most importantly, feel good about their efforts. You’re not just helping them through this, you are teaching them important skills that will serve them well into the future. A big thank you for your continued support.

Our Year 5 student’s all smiles!

Yours in Faith

Jo Reed

Principal

Thank you 

It is Fete Day! We look forward to seeing you all at 4pm. 

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has made this evening possible.

We wouldn’t be able to have such a great event without the help of our wonderful staff, parents, and students; particularly those who have donated items, baked goods and volunteered to put on such a big event.

A special thank you to our Fete Committee, Steph Juskevics, Lucy Barrett and Janel Hebden for their organisation of the Fete. We have had a number of other wonderful parents and community members who have volunteered their time (buying drinks, preparing for the cake stall, hampers etc.). Thank you also to the St Francis Xavier College students who will volunteer their time today!

Thank you to all of the businesses who have sponsored us and who have provided donations. 

We hope you all enjoy this wonderful community event.

A big thank you to our sponsors for our 2025 School Fete!

Gold Sponsors

Dice 4 Diversity

Dice 4 Diversity specialise in working with neurodiverse people – Autism Spectrum, ADD, ADHD, Trauma – but aren’t limited to people with diagnoses. They also work on social anxiety, self-confidence, resilience, teamwork, and much more. Ages 7 and up. Dice 4 Diversity are NDIS friendly.

Ichi Cafe

Kippax Fair, 29 Hardwick Crescent Holt, Canberra, ACT, Australia, 2615

Why not take a look at the extensive menu of Ichi Cafe and treat the kids to take away food tonight, it's got to be better than slaving over a hot stove, then you can bribe them to do the washing up. What we recommend? Try Bacon and Eggs Roll or Cappucino. 

Grindstones Reflections

"Grindstones Reflections is the premier polished concrete company for architects, builders, and clients seeking to build and establish long term relationships. Mainly focusing our strengths on high end residential and now forging a path into commercial and government projects. Our small yet highly efficient team believes that building long-term relationships, open communication and setting expectations from the start is the key to an exceptional and seamless experience. We are passionate and committed to exceeding your expectations on every project." 

Silver Sponsors

Leading Edge Fire Doors

Canberra-based fire door installation company.

Showtime Consulting

Pioneers of 'Shielded Cloud Solutions’— leaders in the integration of ultra-secure, intelligent technology in the most challenging environments.  

showtimeconsulting.au

Test and Tag Canberra

Website: TestandTagCanberra.com.au

Email: sales@testandtagcanberra.com.au

Phone: +61 469 903 653

Bronze Sponsors

Zambrero Manuka

Zambrero is Feel Good Mex! A fresh, healthy quick-service Mexican restaurant franchise and a humanitarian enterprise committed to helping stop world hunger by donating a Plate 4 Plate with every burrito, bowl or grab & go retail item purchased.

We are located in MANUKA – Shop 10, 18 Flinders Way. We can’t wait to see you!

N2Eletrical

N2 Electrical is a family owned and operated electrical company services Canberra and the surrounding regions. With a combined 16 years of hands- on experience, we bring a wealth of knowledge and skill to every project we undertake. We are deeply passionate about our craft, viewing each electrical job as an opportunity to make a difference.

We're dedicated to open communication and exceptional service. Whether you have questions or need assistance, we're here for you. Reach out via phone or email, we're always happy to discuss your electrical needs and provide tailored solutions.

RIXE GROUP

The Rixe Group specialises in leadership, leadership emergence, talent management and communication.

We focus on practical application and learning transfer when designing programs, utilising the most rigorous and recent academic research to design and deliver face-to-face and virtual programs that ensure employees, as well as the organisations they belong to, maximise their outcomes.

Barrett Bros Smash Repairs

Barrett Bros Smash Repairs specialise in accident repairs. If you have been involved in an accident, call our friendly team and they will help you with the process.

We aim to provide our clients with the highest level of customer service and quality accident repairs.

We work with all major insurance companies and will support your choice of repairer.

Higgins Dental

"Higgins Dental is a family-friendly practice offering high quality care for all ages. Led by principal dentists Dr. Chris Phillips and Dr. Erin Currier, we provide gentle, personalised treatments using the latest technology. From check-ups to advanced care, we’re here to help you smile with confidence."

Donations from:

• IGA Holt
• Wee Jasper Distillery
• Raiders Club Holt
• Brudine Vet
• The Picnic Train
• Kippax Vet
• Higgins Dental
• Oliver Street Photography
• Belconnen Bunnings
• Power Kert Raceway
• Flip Out Majura
• Canberra Colour
• Canturf
• Urban Brow Studio

What Students are Learning About

This week we began our classes masses. Fr Chung celebrated with Year 4.  We focussed on Lent and hope.  

Catholic Life and Reflection

It is FETE DAY!! Horray!  It is always such a busy day. So much to be done and so many people come to join us. Today is a fundraising event of course but mostly it is an opportunity to be together. Considering we are UNITED in love, truth and couraged today is a day to live that unity.  

Psalm 133

The Blessedness of Unity

A Song of Ascents.

¹ How very good and pleasant it is
    when kindred live together in unity!

God bless,

Stephanie Stewart

Religious Education Coordinator

Happy Birthday to Davina Borscz, Samuel Hilhorst, Mackenzie Knight, Alexander Stephensen, Spencer Cantwell, Arjun Pardeshi, Zakary Sutherland, Hayley Greenhalgh, Joseph Cook, Anita Shekarkhandeh, Henry Bradbury, Valentina Saldias Gomez, Campbell Green, Patrick Glenn-Downey, Katie Neiberding, Madison Stanton, William Le, Beau Carr, Casper Nolan, Reedhee Pandey, Joshua Ho, Rishaan Banerji Dash, Logan Campbell and Ruby Muller who all celebrate a Birthday in March.

This week SJA hosted our annual ‘Kindergarten Teddy Bear Picnic’. Thank you to all parents and grandparents that attended the picnic. The picnic was a wonderful opportunity for us to connect with teachers, staff, children, parents and grandparents. The children enjoyed activities from the Gecko Gang, face painting, games and much more. A big thank you to our Kinder Teachers for organising such a wonderful event for our beautiful children in Kinder. 

"Congratulations to all the participants who competed in the St Johns Swimming Trails

We will be handing out ribbons at 8.50am on Tuesday 18^th March for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place getters. Parents are welcome to attend.

50M FREE

8 years girls

• Tia McNamara - 

9 years girls

• Alex Bradbury - 
• Sophie Clifford - 

10 years girls

• Charlotte McCabe - 

11 years girls

• Elspeth Stone - 
• Lilijana Tundulin -
• Grace Payne - 

12 years girls

• Allira Richardson - 

9 years boys

• Alex Richardson - 
• Henry Larkin - 
• Liam Zaretzky - 

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Victor Lomax -
• Rylan Richardson - 

11 years boys

• Logan McNamara - 
• Steven Pham - 
• Theo Cockburn - 

12 years boys

• Clyde Lomax - 
• Henry Ton-That - 
• Mateo V -

50M BACK

8 years girls

• Tia McNamara - 

9 years girls

• Alex Bradbury - 
• Allegra Cockburn - 
• Sophie Clifford - 

10 years girls

• Charlotte McCabe - 

11 years girls

• Grace Payne - 
• Lilijana Tundulin - 
• Edith Bradbury - 

12 years girls

• Allira Richardson - 

9 years boys

• Alex Richardson - 
• Liam Zaretzky - 
• Henry Larkin -

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Victor Lomax - 
• Rylan Richardson - 

11 years boys

• Logan McNamara - 
• Steven Pham - 
• Theodore Cockburn - 

12 years boys

• Clyde Lomax - 
• Mataeo V-C - 1
• Henry Ton-That - 

50M BREAST

8 years girls

• Tia McNamara - 

9 years girls

• Alex Bradbury -
• Allegra Cockburn - 
• Sophie Clifford - 

10 years girls

• Charlottle McCabe -

11 years girls

• Elspeth Stone - 
• Lilijana Tundulin -
• Grace Payne -

12 years girls

• Allira Richardson - 

9 years boys

• Alexander Richardson -

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Victor Lomax - 
• Rylan Richardson - 

11 years boys

• Steven Pham -
• Logan McNamara - 
• Theodore Cockburn -

12 years boys

• Clyde Lomax -
• Mataeo V-C - 

50M Butterfly

9 years girls

• Alex Bradbury - 
• Sophie Clifford - 

11 years girls

• Grace Payne -
• Edith Bradbury -

10 years boys

• Victor Lomax -
• Zayn Siddiqul - 

100m Freestyle

8 years girls

• Tia McNamara 

10 years girls

• Charlotte McCabe - 

9 years boys

• Alexander Richardson -
• Liam Zaretzky - 

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Victor Lomax - 
• Rylan Richardson - 

11 years boys

• Logan McNamara - 
• Steven Pham - 

12 years boys

• Clyde Lomax - 

100m Backstroke

9 years girls

• Alex Bradbury - 

10 years girls

• Charlotte McCabe - 

11 years girls

• Edith Bradbury - 

12 years girls

• Allira Richardson - 

9 years boys

• Liam Zaretzy - 
• Alexander Richardson - 
• Henry Larkin - 

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Victor Lomax -
• Rylan Richardson -

11 years boys

• Logan McNamara - 
• Steven Pham - 

100m Freestyle

8 years girls

• Tia McNamara - 

10 years girls

• Charlotte McCabe - 

9 years boys

• Alexander Richardson - 
• Liam Zaretzky - 

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Victor Lomax -
• Rylan Richardson - 

11 years boys

• Logan McNamara -
• Steven Pham - 

12 years boys

• Clyde Lomax - 
• Mateo V-C - 2

100m Breast

12 years girls

• Allira Richardson -

9 years boys

• Alexander Richardson -
• Liam Zaretzky -
• Henry Larkin - 

10 years boys

• Oskar El-Geddes - 
• Rylan Richardson - 
• Zayn Siddiqul - 

11 years boys

• Steven Pham - 
• Logan Mcnamara - 
• Theodore Cockburn - 

12 years boys

• Clyde Lomax -
• Mataeo V-C - 

Please note participants for the Belconnen Region Swimming event, qualify based on time not their place in their race at school."

    ST FRANCIS XAVIER COLLEGE

2026 Enrolment Information Evening

What: Visit SFX and find out about our amazing College. The evening includes guided tours of the school and an information session.

When: Tuesday 25 March 2025. The evening will commence with guided tours from 5pm and an information session from 6:30- 7:15pm.

Who: Everyone is invited to come along and experience SFX. No bookings required.

Try-A-Day

What: Year 6 students have the opportunity to Try out SFX for a day.

When: Friday 2 May 2025 – 10:00am – 2:00pm

Who: Year 6 students from Belconnen Catholic Primary Schools are invited to experience High School for a day at SFX.  Students will be advised by their primary school and travel to and from with their class group.

Year 6 students from Primary Schools other than Belconnen Catholic Primary Schools are also invited but must register to attend.  A registration link will be available on this site from Tuesday 1 April 2025.

Open Day

When: Friday 9 2025 May 9:00am – 2:30pm

What: Open Day is also an opportunity for prospective families to visit and take a guided tour of the College. This is a wonderful opportunity to see what happens on a normal school day. There is no need to register to take a tour of the College. Please feel free to come along between 9am – 2.00pm on the day.

More Information

For more information regarding enrolments, please contact our

Enrolment Officer, Jennifer Madgwick

enrolments@sfx.act.edu.au

or telephone 6258 1055

Opening Hours

A friendly reminder that St Johns is a nut free school. Thank you.

Parking in these spaces is reserved for people who have priority parking cards.

If you do not have a disability parking sticker please do not use these spots

Thank you for your support in this matter.

Navigating the Bullying Maze

A Guide for Parents

Bullying. It’s a word that sends shivers down the spine of any parent. We want our children to feel safe, happy, and accepted, and the thought of them being targeted by hurtful words or actions is deeply upsetting. But the reality is, bullying is a pervasive issue. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, a staggering 70% of Australian children aged 12-13 have experienced bullying, with one in five facing it on a weekly basis.

These statistics are alarming, and they underscore the urgent need for parents to understand the dynamics of bullying and equip their children with the tools to navigate these challenging situations.

What is Bullying, Exactly?

Bullying isn’t just a playground squabble or a one-off disagreement. It’s a pattern of repeated, intentional aggression, where there’s an imbalance of power. It can take many forms:

Physical: Hitting, kicking, shoving, or damaging property.

Verbal: Name-calling, teasing, insults, or threats.

Social: Spreading rumours, excluding someone from a group, or manipulating relationships.

Cyberbullying: Using technology to harass, intimidate, or humiliate someone. This can include sending hurtful messages, posting embarrassing photos or videos online, or spreading rumours through social media.

The Impact of Bullying:

Bullying can have devastating consequences for children’s well-being. Victims of bullying are more likely to experience:

Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and feelings of isolation.

Academic difficulties: Poor concentration, decreased motivation, and lower academic achievement.

Physical health problems: Headaches, stomachaches, sleep disturbances, and even self-harm.

Social withdrawal: Difficulty forming and maintaining friendships and a reluctance to participate in social activities.

What to Do if Your Child is Being Bullied:

Listen and validate: Create a safe space for your child to share their experiences without judgement. Let them know you believe them and that you’re there to support them.

Empower, don’t rescue: Resist the urge to immediately intervene and solve the problem for them. Instead, help your child develop strategies for coping with the situation and advocating for themselves. This might involve role-playing different scenarios, brainstorming solutions, or practicing assertive communication.

Document the bullying: Keep a record of the incidents, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. This information can be helpful if you need to involve the school or other authorities.

Partner with the school: Work with your child’s teachers and school administrators to address the bullying. Many schools have anti-bullying policies and programs in place.

Build coping skills: Studies show that if a child can avoid overwhelm, process effectively, and maintain a positive mindset (recognising that bullying is bad, but is more about the bully than themselves), they cope better. Trauma is not a result of the events that happen to you. It’s a result of how you process those events. 

Seek professional support: If the bullying is severe or your child is struggling to cope, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counsellor.

What to Do if Your Child is the Bully:

It can be difficult to accept that your child might be the one causing harm to others. But it’s crucial to address this behaviour promptly and effectively.

Acknowledge the problem: Don’t dismiss or minimise your child’s behaviour, and don’t make excuses for your child. Take their actions seriously and let them know that bullying is unacceptable.

Understand the motivation: Try to understand why your child is engaging in bullying behaviour. Are they seeking attention? Trying to fit in? Coping with their own insecurities?

Teach empathy: Help your child develop empathy by encouraging them to consider the perspective of the person they’re bullying. Ask questions like, “How do you think your words made them feel?”

Set clear consequences: Establish clear consequences for bullying behaviour. This might involve loss of privileges or other appropriate disciplinary measures. It should absolutely involve finding a way to improve relationships with other students, meaningful apologies, and restitution.

Model positive behaviour: Be a role model for kindness, respect, and empathy in your own interactions with others.

Bullying is a complex issue, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But by staying informed, communicating openly with our children, and partnering with the school, we can create a safer and more supportive environment for all children. Helping children process challenges safely helps them develop an intrinsic capacity to cope—allowing us to then focus on the identification and re-education of those who bully.

Let’s empower our kids to be upstanders, not bystanders, and create a culture of kindness and respect in our schools and communities.

Author

Dr Justin Coulson

Dr Justin Coulson is a dad to 6 daughters and grandfather to 1 granddaughter. He is the parenting expert and co-host of Channel 9’s Parental Guidance, and he and his wife host Australia’s #1 podcast for parents and family: The Happy Families podcast. He has written 9 books about families and parenting. For further details visit www.happyfamilies.com.au.