Quote: “The difference between one person and another, between the weak and the powerful, the great and the insignificant, is energy – invisible determination. This quality will do anything that has to be done in the world, and no talents, no circumstances; no opportunities will make you a great person without it”.

The above quote is once again, most applicable at this time of the term. There are plenty of tired boys, but by and large they are all coping well with the workload they have, both in and out of the classrooms. As Darren and I pointed out to the boys, the more you get up and get into your commitments, providing you are getting adequate rest and food, the more energy you acquire. I related to the boys a brief meeting I had with one of our Dads, whilst grabbing a quick coffee on Wednesday morning. He had worked until 5.00am, went home, slept for two hours and was back on deck to go again. Although obviously tired, there were no complaints, just got on with it. I told the boys that there would be any number of examples such as this coming from many of you parents, and, that I had sincerely hoped that the effort put in by you all to give these boys the opportunity of a good education was reciprocated by the boys in the classroom and in evening study. I asked them to reflect sincerely on their efforts in all subjects, their study periods – are they productive or do they take the soft option and put their head on the desk for a sleep? Evening study – in the new dormitory set up, which is extremely comfortable for them, do they work hard when no one is looking over their shoulder, or do they simply waste time. This is the “work in the dark” which is where our boys should be at in this point in their development and, which is what the Father I bumped into on Wednesday morning deserves from our boys. Character is developed in these times.

A FEW TOUGH CALLS.
Whilst the boys efforts often deserve praise, I am not going to sugar-coat things all the time to give off a persona all is wonderful. Sometimes the choices our boys make are not always the right ones. Last weekend I was very disappointed at the immature decision of numerous boys in being up and disturbing others in the Dorms at 1.00am, Saturday morning. The boys were back here on Sunday for a few hours but I have put all on notice that any repeat by anyone will see them back here on Friday and Saturday of the holidays. With exams fast approaching, assessment tasks due and important sporting fixtures to compete in; such behaviour is unacceptable and won’t be tolerated.

Another issue which is creeping up is Saturday night parties, and “Everyone is doing it”. I can assure you that is not the case, and I told the boys having taxing weekends will cost them in their performance on the following Monday and often Tuesday here in class and study time. If they want to set themselves up on solid foundations for good results next year they need to be doing this right now. “Big weekends” now will not do this. I know I am not telling you anything new here but if we work together on this we can help the boys make better decisions on this matter.

Darren and I spoke to the boys about the need to talk to their teachers and /or ourselves if they are struggling with any aspects of their work. Some are absolute experts at this, but others attempt to try and silently soldier on for numerous reasons. They must understand, everyone is here to assist them and make use of this. The attitude of “Us v the Staff” should never be an issue here, please encourage your son to learn to ask for help with the various challenges he has before him. The odd short cut, that some have tried, obviously does not acquire some of our boys the desired result but gain time to reflect early on Friday morning or on Sunday morning to ensure a return to the right way. Once again, working together from home and school we will be better placed in helping the boys get to where they are aiming.

Our commitment to serving the guest at the Matthew Talbot Hostel has continued over the last couple of weeks with Tom Cleary, Josh Wilde, Ned Tipping and Sam Barclay going on today.

Our debaters have been going exceptionally well, last week gaining the decision in two debates against Monte and Sydney High. Well done to Harry Maher, Tim Litherland, Max Hall, Hamish Elliot, Oliver Coorey, Daniel Harrington, Dom Price and Ben Chaplin.

Next Monday, the 21st March is our day where we celebrate St Joseph’s Feast Day. We will do so with a round of outings that see our boys off to Queenscliff Beach, a round of golf or ice skating and movies at Macquarie. If your son wishes to take his surfboard to the Beach, could you please email a letter of approval for him son to partake in this specific activity. Our boys work hard in their studies, sport and other co-curricular activities and it is equally important for them to enjoy each other’s company in a more relaxed and fun day. Also day boys do not have to be at the College until 8.45am.

A reminder that next weekend marks the conclusion of the regular Summer Sport Season with the exception of our Senior Rowers with the Head of the River being held on Saturday, 2nd April. Next Saturday evening, 26th March, will be the Summer Sports Rally to be held in the Brother Emilian Hall commencing at 6.30pm. It will conclude by 7.30pm. All boys must be in attendance dressed in their Blues. The night has been shortened with the usual Mass transferred to the Sunday night, 27th March at 8.15pm. Therefore, all Boarders and Weekly Boarders, returning Sunday night, will need to return by 8pm Sunday week.

Take care and enjoy the weekend with your families.

Regards
Jeremy

YEAR 11 NEWSLETTER

TERM 1, WEEK 6.

QUOTE: BE AWARE OF THINGS THAT MIGHT BE AMUSING TO YOU BUT PAINFUL TO OTHERS!

Dear Year 11 Parents,

Our boys are now really experiencing the reason for Joey’s success. Hard work. At the moment there is plenty on. Assignments, assessments, let alone commitments to sport, music and other extra curricula activities, at a time when some are getting a little tired. I spoke with our boys about these issues, pointing out a few short cuts that some people have taken, that do not work. We have refocussed our boys on to their organisational skills, particularly in relation to punctuality, responsibility for their gear, not resorting to immature behaviour and how they deal and work with others.

Darren Frost and I, however, continue to be impressed with the work ethic of the group as a whole, encouraging it to continue, as well as for a few who have wandered, to maximise the second half of the term to gain the satisfaction and being content with knowing they have put in an honest effort and worked hard. Many boys are entering new areas of responsibility and demands of work. Please keep reassuring your son he has the time and ability to maximise his potential at this busy time of the term.

What a great night it was last Friday evening at the Year 11 Dinner. It was wonderful to meet so many new people and catch up with others. As one parent said, “The night went too quickly. I needed a week to catch up with everyone!” I’m sure you were all very proud of your son as I indeed was of all our boys who made an effort in the little things, proving that chivalry is not dead and is still today so hugely valued and appreciated. Great food, great entertainment and great company, along with the great efforts made by many to be with your sons last Friday, made it a wonderful Joeys Family occasion.

Our helpers at the Matthew Talbot Hostel have continued with the following boys going on Friday, 25^th February, Alex Beasley, Joe Duffy, Mitchell Johnson and James Keenan. Today Dylan Burt, Jack Hamilton, Oliver Hartnell and Louis Jenkins will be our helpers. Often it is worthwhile to read the boys’ thoughts on this experience and I have included James Goldie and Daniel Hughes’ account of their visit:

 “On the 19^th of February Daniel Hughes, Callum Flitcroft, Harry Mooring and James Goldie put our names down to assist in the Matthew Talbot operation. My expectations of a rundown soup kitchen with muttering homeless men were straight away blown away by the up to date and strong community of Matthew Talbot. The opening scene to our experience was rather intimidating as 40 or so homeless men crowded a narrow alley way, our timidness was met with open arms and loud greetings by the homeless and we immediately felt comfortable.

When we entered the cafeteria of the Mathew Talbot hostel we were surprised to see that the cafeteria and facilities were very modern in appearance, well-kept and the men waited for their meals in a more orderly fashion then the boys do at school.  We were given a basic prep of our duties and then Merv gave us a short run down of what Matthew Talbot offers to the men.  The homeless are given rooms with a small fee, and offered many different classes to get them back on their feet and become functioning members of society.

I tried to stay as far away as possible as I collected the first plates and cups from a man finished eating, as I expected to get punched in the face or abusively sworn at, but when I asked if I could take the plate from the man, he simply looked up at my name tag and said “Thankyou Daniel”.  Our job, although small, of clearing the tables was greatly appreciated by the men and when they finished, they quickly went off to their next activity. As we worked they showed us respect by assisting our clean up and we showed respect by listening to what they had to say.

The day was a totally new experience and I observed the struggle of homelessness in its raw element. By the end I realised that no matter what class or age you are, you can still spiral out of control and end up in the mess that the men were working so hard to get out of. We saw so many different age groups and ethnicities and it helped me realise that no one is completely resistant to becoming homeless”.

Daniel Hughes and James Goldie

Last Monday greeted us with the ideal conditions of mild weather for the running of the College Athletics Carnival. It allowed our athletic talent to be noticed but also allowed a day of spirited performances and involvement with the Blue House taking out the honours of the day followed by Green, White, Red, Black and Gold. Special mention must go to Alex Beasley who won the U/17 Age Champion and Thom martin who came second. Ben Rodgers also stood out with some exceptional performances in the distance events. A special thanks to Mrs Mandy Harris, the Athletics Convenor, for the organisation of a great day. You can take a look at some of the action from our boys by viewing the video courteousy of Darren Frost.

Our Director of Mission, Mrs Helen Smith, launched our College Lenten Appeal to support the works of MAPS (Marist Asia-Pacific Solidarity) in furthering the work of Marist Missions, in particular, with our brother school in the Soloman Islands, East Timor and Cambodia.  Our aim in Year 11 is for each boy to contribute at least $10 over Lent to help us contribute $2,000 to these works. I have encouraged the boys to bring the money back with them on Sunday nights or Monday mornings. Father Andrew challenged the boys both collectively and individually to strive to improve ourselves in the areas in our lives, where we could be better, and to use our faith in doing this. Bullying issues, being jealous of other boys marks and lives or simply not making full use of our God given talents, Father implored the boys to not only be satisfied by where we are and what we have, but, in the words of our motto, strive to be better.

At yesterday’s Headmaster’s Assembly Ross Tarlinton asked the boys to reflect on a slide, seen below, which Fr. Andrew had used during his prayer. The slide was one of Jesus carrying the cross, with three people in the background, two of them being Joseph and Mary.  Ross asked the boys to reflect for a moment on how Joseph and Mary would have felt, knowing their son was about to die. He also asked the boys to reflect on how they would have felt in the time preceding Jesus birth and the tremendous “high” they would have experienced. He then asked the boys to reflect on the excitement you, as parents would have felt in the time leading into their own birth. This Lent, Ross challenged the boys to be aware of the significant people in their lives, and those who travel with you, Ross reminded the boys to always be aware that the “journey” is not always about themselves, and, in the week when we celebrated International Day for Women, he challenged the boys to be especially aware of the manner in which they treat the women in their lives. How we treat them and how we conduct ourselves around them. This being part of the challenge of this Lent, think about other people in your lives.

Br. Anthony has also challenged the boys with well-timed words over the last two weeks. He firstly told the boys what he believed were the characteristics of a strong Year group:

 A STRONG YEAR GROUP………..

• Respects one another and one another’s differences. It does not mock, bully or put others down. These behaviours are not tolerated.
• Has broad leadership. Boys mix with each other readily from different backgrounds and with different ethos. The number of leaders is a good indicator of the spirit within a form.
• Does not have ‘clicks”, all boys are accepted.
• Respects the property of others at all times.
• Keeps areas clean and tidy. They are well aware that people live and work in the surrounds which they occupy.
• Relates well and respectfully to staff.
• Is proactive, always displays initiative.
• Shows character…. Speaks up when they know things are not as they should be.
• Contributes strongly to all areas of College life.
• Is prepared to make sacrifices to achieve its goals.
• Does the little things well…. And does so over an extended period of time.
• Is proud of each other’s’ achievements and congratulates others successes.

WHAT AM I DOING TO ENSURE MY YEAR GROUP IS A STRONG ONE?

 Yesterday Brother spoke to the boys regarding their obligations in carrying on the College’s traditions. He asked the boys to think about why others feel a strong spirit when they walk into the gates of St Joseph’s College. Is it because we never give up? Is it because we don’t mind hard work? Is it the pride in the School? Or is it the bonds and friendships forged through boarding? Brother said he could not answer the question, however what he could say that every boy here belongs to that spirit, that feeling and each boy has a duty to carry that on, and not only on a sporting field but in the classrooms and in evening study. He challenged the boys to show the same dedication to our classwork which they showed to other areas of College life…… make sacrifices, be prepared to do extra work and work on weekends. The same spirit we display on fields, we must display in the classrooms. Timely advice for all the boys.

In Sporting maters, yesterday our 1^st Eight left to compete in the National Rowing Championships in South Australia. We would like to wish all of the crew every success and enjoyment in this terrific opportunity and especially mention Sam Clarke, Conor O’Gorman, Alec Rainnie and Ehtan Shaw for their efforts in being selected in the crew. I am confident they will do themselves and the College proud by their efforts.

In Cricket the 1^st X1 bounced back from the loss to Riverview with a strong victory over Kings. The boys scored 165 runs, with Declan O’Donahue making an impressive 68 before bowling Kings out for 161, with Hamish Bartlett and Ben Rodgers taking 3 wickets each. The team had a midweek 20/20 match against Oakhill and scored 120 runs with James Williams making 23 and Jesse Fenech 16 and then they bowled Oakhill out for 60, with Ben Rodgers taking an amazing 7 wickets for 7 runs, including a hat-trick. Currently the boys are playing Newington where we scored 177 with Hamish Bartlett scoring a very solid 73 and Jackson Watts making 34. Ben Rodgers has taken 2 Newington wickets in their reply of 5 – 46.

The 2^nd X1 had a strong win over the Kings School, scoring 127 and having Kings out for 71 and then 7 for 38 in their second innings. Tom Laban took 3 for 14 and 1 for 6 and Seth Turnbull took 2 for 15 to be the chief wicket takers. Currently they are in progress against Newington. They have bowled their opponents out for 101 with Tom Garrick taking 4 for 28 and Tim Litherland 2 for 7 being the pick of the bowlers and we are presently 7 for 118 with Josh Schwager scoring 38 runs.

In Basketball, our 1^st V have had a couple of tough weeks running into the Number 1 and Number 2 ranked teams in the country in High and Newington. They put up a very brave performance against High leading at half time by 5 points before going down 86 – 56 with Harrison Goodrick achieving 12 points and 10 rebounds. Last week against Newington the boys had a tough day losing 81 – 48, with Harrison Goodrick scoring 20 points and Andrew Hookey 13 points.

Next week I will have some updates on how the boys in our other sports have been performing. If you have any pictures of the troops in action, I am always grateful to receive any so we can share their efforts and achievements in our Blog.

Just to remind you End of Term 1 (Travel dates Friday 8^th April and return for Term 2 on Monday 2^nd May). The booking form is available on the website www.joeys.org under Travel. Please note the closing dates for bookings and cancellations. These are provided on the booking form. As Countrylink are firm with closing dates for student travel, it is best that you attend to bookings as soon as possible. Cancellations can be made if necessary.

I hope this keeps you up to date with all that is happening with the boys. Take care and enjoy your weekend with your families.

Regards

Jeremy Ticehurst

QUOTE: “Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anybody else expects of you. Never excuse yourself. Be a hard master to yourself – and be lenient to everybody else!”

Dear Parents/Guardians;

The honeymoon period is definitely over as the work load of Year 11 starts to kick in. All boys returning at the start of the year with the new found vigour and commitment are seeing their resolutions tested. All of their varying commitments from Study, Music, Drama and Sport plus other extra-curricula commitments have seen our boys facing new adult like responsibilities of planning and time management. All very real and important lessons that come with being a Senior at  the College.

In the  last Newsletter we celebrated the academic success of twenty-two boys at the conclusion of last year. Though not every boy can come first in his chosen subject, every boy can obtain a Study Effort award. These are awarded each term to boys who have shown outstanding EFFORT in their studies. This is what Joeys is truly about. We want all of our boys to give of their very best effort. It doesn’t matter where they come but as long as they have done the best they can, as our motto states: Strive for Better Things. Congratulations to the following boys who received Study Effort Awards for term 4, 2010:

James Allan, Henry Birtwistle, Henry Brindle, Mackenzie Broom, Ben Carolan, Oliver Coorey, Harrison Gould, Cameron Haddad, Matthew Hall, Maxwell Hall, Oliver Hartnell, Magnus Heywood, Max Honner, Thomas Laban, Michael Lawler, Tim Litherland, Henry Maher, Conor O’Gorman, Clancy Pattinson, Daniel Picone, Sean Quigley, James Quinn, Andrew Raumer, Jason Ren, Seth Turnbull and Allan Wu. All these boys are to be congratulated for having showed Excellence in Effort in their class work in Year 10, Term Four, 2010.

At the Headmaster’s Assembly, Mr Ross Tarlinton spoke to the boys and told them that at times in their lives they will be called and challenged in particular ways, both individually and in groups. How we respond to these challenges individually and as a community can be important to ensure others are safe and reassured. Sometimes we are called to help total strangers. Late last year, an ex – St Ignatius student, died tragically when he took his own life within the College grounds. This occurred on a Saturday which resulted in their Yr 11 Semi-Formal having to be rescheduled to a different venue, not an easy task, especially at 3.00pm in the afternoon before the occasion. However the night was relocated to our College Hall with the assistance and energies of many of the Joeys community and yesterday, the present St Ignatius College Captain, Callum Ryan and Vice Captain, James Tooth, came along to thank Ross and the Joeys community for their help during this tragic time. Callum said that one of the mottos of Jesuit education, being “Men and women for others”, was exemplified through this occasion and that the St Ignatius Community wanted to express their gratitude and thanks for the efforts of the St Joseph’s Community which enabled their special night to go ahead. Something, very important for the Year 11 students.

Ross then asked our boys that during times of desperation to always remember the extraordinary love their parents have for them, and urged them to reach out and ask for assistance during these times. He also implored them to always check on a mate, who they perceived to be struggling, to see if he was O.K, and it was their business to do this. Very important lessons for our young men to take on board.

Max Hall, played a magnificent piece of music for the College to enjoy and you can watch his tremendous performance on our blog by clicking on the picture below.

Each Friday afternoon at about 4pm, four of our boys go along with Ms. Helen Smith, to help serve the evening meal to the guests at the Matt Talbot Hostel for Homeless Men, in East Sydney. This practice has been running for well over twenty years where four Year 11 boys go each week. It is an important component of our Social Justice work in Year 11. The stories they come back with each Friday evening are really wonderful. On their return to the College at around 6.30pm they share a meal together having a de-briefing, discussing their experiences and swapping stories. They then proudly wear their volunteer name tags around for the rest of the evening. Lewis Mullins, Robert Kwan, Ben Chaplin and Curtis Witt were our first group to go in on Friday, 11^th February, and spoke to the rest of the boys of the great experience they all had.

All of our boys will have an opportunity to help serve at Matt Talbot throughout the year.

Today James Goldie, Callum Flitcroft, Harry Mooring and Daniel Hughes will enjoy experience. I will put the names of the boys in the Newsletter each week who attend. Make sure then you catch up with your son and chat to him about it. Their stories are very animated and are true witnesses of the great power of volunteers. (As a postscript to this; there are old boys today who still drop in at Matt Talbot to lend a hand to serve the guests meals, coming from their busy corporate worlds to help.)

In sport, I am pleased to say all boys are involving themselves fully and this is extremely important so that they keep the balance between classroom, study and physical activity. If you are concerned about your son’s involvement in sport, and I am not alluding to selection issues here, but simply that he is fully involving himself and is receiving the opportunity to do so to his ability, please do not hesitate to call me and I will look into it. A special mention to the 1^st X1 Cricket and 1^st V Basketball teams who had strong wins last weekend against Kings. The 1^st X1 scored 165 runs, with Declan O’Donahue top scoring with 67 runs and last weekend the boys bowled Kings out for 161 with Hamish Bartlett and Ben Rodgers taking 3 wickets each. The 1^st V had a strong 62 -34 victory over Kings with Andrew Hookey top scoring with 14 points. Although our 1^st tennis were soundly beaten by Kings, they played extremely well and Maurice De Costa, played a most admirable match in his singles against some top class opponents. This weekend’s Sports fixtures are attached and there will be some exciting matches with most of our teams playing away against St Ignatius.

The plans for the Year 11 Dinner are progressing well and it promises to be a great night. It is very much for the parents to meet their son’s friends and respective parents. The boys are busily organising the tables of 9, 10 or 11 people for the evening to have a meal together and for your sons to entertain you with music and video highlights of the year so far. The RSVP for the Dinner have been going well, please reply as soon as you can, if you have not already done so. If it has slipped your mind, could you please send in a note and payment to Mrs Rose Unwin first thing next MONDAY morning, 21st February.

Take care and enjoy the weekend with your families.

Regards

Jeremy Ticehurst

Yr. 11 Boarding Coordinator.

Year 11 Newsletter –

Term 1, Week  2

QUOTE

“Hold yourself responsible for a higher standard than anybody else expects of you. Never excuse yourself. Be a hard master to yourself – and be lenient to everybody else!” 

Dear Year 11 Parents & Carers,

Your sons have spent their first two weeks of getting back into the swing of school. The joy of February in Sydney with its humidity has tested the boys particularly wearing ties, long pants and shoes but has not totally killed them with our boys just getting on with it. I was extremely proud of how well the boys behaved at the Prize Giving and Family Mass. Our boys are quickly learning all the structures of life as a Senior at Joeys.

The Academic Prize Giving Night for 2010 was held on Friday evening at the end of Week One. In addition to the HSC high achievers, the College welcomed special guest speaker, Mr. Peter Thompson, well known broadcaster and long running presenter of the Radio National Breakfast Program and the current affairs program AM, on ABC Radio. Mr. Thompson is an Old Boy of the College and spoke enthusiastically to the students and their families. The night certainly highlighted the success that our boys achieved in their final results and particularly in the School Certificate State exam.

Our Congratulations go to the following twenty-two young men whose outstanding efforts in 2010 were fittingly acknowledged.

Oliver Coorey: – 1^st place in Science, Visual Arts and an Academic Excellence Award.

Edmund Dwyer: – 1st place in French and an Academic Excellence Award.

Hamish Elliot: – 1^st place in Industrial Technology – Timber and an Academic Excellence Award.

Matthew Hall: – An Academic Excellence Award

Maxwell Hall: – 1^st place in Religious Education, 1^st place in Industrial Technology – Metal, 1^st place in Music and an Academic Excellence Award.

Michael Lawler: – An Academic Excellence Award and a Consistent Study Effort Award.

Henry Maher: – 1^st place in English; 1^st in Australian Geography; 1^st in Australian History;

1^st in Commerce, 1^st in Thinkquest, an Academic Excellence Award and a Consistent Study Effort Award.

Cameron Haddad: – 1^st place in Agricultural Technology.

Daniel Picone: – 1^st place in Latin.

Alexander Rainnie:- 1^st place in Graphics Technology

Michael Thompson:-1^st place in Drama.

Timothy Litherland: – 1^st place in Elective History.

Magnus Heywood:- 1^st place in Information and software Technology.

Brian Chung Hin Li:- 1^st place in Japanese.

Max Westacott:- 1^st place in Mathematics Course 5.1.

James Christie:- 1^st place in Mathematics Course 5.2.

William McManus:-1^st place in Mathematics Course 5.3.

Alex Newsome:- 1^st place in Personal Development/Health/Physical Education.

Clancy Pattinson:- 1^st place in Physical Activity and Sport Studies and a Consistent Study Effort Award.

Ben Carolan:-. A Consistent Study Effort Award

Max Honner:- A Consistent Study Effort Award.

Thomas Laban:- A Consistent Study Effort Award.

Sean Quigley:- A Consistent Study Effort Award.

From the School Certificate results the top performing students in each test were:

• English – literacy – Maxwell Hall [98%];
• Mathematics – Jonathon Canturi [97%]
• Mathematics Accelerated – Jack Cullen and Paul Fortuin [96%]
• Science – Henry Maher [97%]
• Australian History Civics and Citizenship – Henry Maher [97%]
• Australian Geography Civics and Citizenship – Maxwell Hall [98%]
• Computing Skills – Maxwell Hall [98%]

Special congratulations goes to Maxwell Hall and Henry Maher who achieved a Band 6 result in the English – literacy, Mathematics, Science, Australian History Civics and Citizenship, Australian Geography Civics and Citizenship tests.

Well done boys, certainly laying a great foundation for their HSC studies.

 The Family Mass on our first Sunday marked the beginning of our Year with close to 2,000 people in attendance. A packed Hall enjoyed the celebration of the Joeys Family, led by our College Chaplain, Father Andrew Nee, marking the beginning of 2011 with our Family Mass of Dedication. Our boys sung with great gusto and spirit to make these Masses always a wonderful celebration never to be missed.

From Sunday afternoon until Tuesday afternoon, of last week, twenty-four of our boys: James Allan, Joe Callaughan, Ben Carolan, Ben Chaplin, Joe Duffy, James Dressler-Smith, Hamish Elliot, Harrison Gould, Max Hall, James Harrison, Magnus Heywood, Max Honner, Josh Kay, Tom Laban, Charlie Landers, Michael Lawler, Tim Palmer, Harry Maher, Tom Murphy, Alex Newsome, Daniel Picone, James Quinn, David Ryan and Ned Tipping were chosen to go to Colo for a Leadership Camp. The boys partook in a series of problem solving tasks that required leadership and team work to solve. The boys discussed the virtues, skills and roles of leadership. The boys will put their leadership skills to work when they return to Colo throughout the year to assist the Colo Staff in the running of the Year 7 & 8 Colo Camps. This is a truly wonderful experience for these twenty-three young men to put their leadership skills into practice.

At The Headmaster’s Assembly this week, Mr. Ross Tarlinton congratulated our boys complimenting them on a great start marked by their behaviour at the Prize Giving Night and Family Mass particularly under hot conditions. Ross then highlighted to our boys the importance of the respect we must show to our neighbours and our local community stressing the need for all our boys to be good neighbours. Ross’s words provided our boys great encouragement based on a fine start that we look forward to continuing in all the boys classes and studies as well.

Assembly also saw the presentations of our AAGPS Firsts Teams in Swimming and Tennis. Congratulations to our Year 11 representatives in: Senior Swimming Team: Elliott Blues, Ben Carolan, Harrison Holgate, Jackson Pittorino and David Ryan. Maurice De Costa was presented for being selected in our 1^st Tennis team.  Best of luck to these boys and in fact to all boys, as they continue or commence their respective competitions this Saturday.

Darren Frost and I were very happy to compliment our boys with a particular fine start in their studies, their general behaviour and co-operation in the dorms. Many teachers have made positive comments so we are off to a very good start. The first two weeks has seen your sons with information overload but they have handled it all very well.

 I spoke to the boys about the strength of routine, particularly with Study. I stressed that Dinner Leaves, should be only for exceptional reasons, particularly on Friday night. Otherwise, our boys could go from Thursday night to Monday night without having completed any Study. The same applies for Saturday and Sunday evenings. The boys who remain at the College do a session of Study and attend Mass before they enjoy a pizza in front of a movie, the footy or a game of touch or basketball with their mates.

Thank you so far for the diligence of the Full Boarders Parents with your request for Overnights. May I please receive ALL requests by last communications Thursday evening (10.30pm). The Weekly Boarders obviously do not have to request Overnights or inform me of their Weekend Movements as the understanding is that they all go home with their families after their sporting commitments on Saturday during summer.

May I strongly urge, that all parents need to apply sensible restrictions to our boys movements on the weekends. The onus is now more than ever on the parents to educate their son’s about the frequency of going to parties, outings of where to go and not to go, setting curfews and then policing them. I’m sure you will hear from your son “Everyone else is going!” Be assured this is nothing further from the truth. Our boys are good, fair, developing young men who can indeed accept, NO! as an answer. Work out with your son how many outings are permissible each term. It would be disappointing if some of our boys developed a culture of not doing any work over a weekend as well as not having quality family time. I encourage you all as we work together to help educate our boys in this always uneasy topic about sensible expectations and most importantly a safe and balanced social life.

Yesterday I had quite a harrowing experience of attending the funeral of a young man from St Ignatius College Riverview, Joe Welch, 2009, he was 19 years of age. Joe was a much celebrated SIC student, whose love of sport , especially Rugby, where he was in the 1^st XV for three years, a significant achievement especially considering he was a prop forward. He captained their Premiership winning team in 2009 and was subsequently chosen for the Australian Schoolboys side to tour the United Kingdom. Joe’s life was tragically cut short whilst he was participating in the Full Moon Festival with many of his mates, some of them ex St Joseph’s students. I have never been to a funeral where the Priest’s opening words were;

“There is nothing good about this today”.

I have never been to a funeral where the Priest openly wept whilst giving the coffin the final blessing, before two younger brothers (current SIC Yr 11 students), a sister and a few more close mates, were waiting tearfully, to carry it out of the church. Fr Kelly did a magnificent job. As I stood and reflected on numerous things, whilst standing with a group of SJC 2009 students, I thought how brave and sensible Joe’s parents were, when in their eulogy they said that Joe had made an error of judgement whilst being on the holiday and that alcohol and drugs combined can lead to decisions, which can change lives forever. And whilst they deeply loved their son and were tremendously proud of who and what he had become in his short life, Joe’s parents were still strong and wise enough to leave such a strong message for all people, especially the young, and it was one which I shared with our boys when I returned at lunch. It would be good to take some time to reflect on this with your son, if you can, and hopefully they will take something positive from this tragic loss of an outstanding young man.

In early January, you should have received an invitation to the Year 11 Dinner to be held on Friday, evening, 4^th March. Being at the end of Week 5 of Term One, it allows for our boys to have settled in as well as mark the very significant beginning of their HSC studies. If you have not received your Invitation please contact Mrs. Rose Unwin at runwin@joeys.org for your Invitation.

I look forward to seeing you around the College. Take care and enjoy the weekend with your families.

Regards,

Jeremy Ticehurst

Yr 11. Boarding Coordinator

“THINGS MAY COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT, BUT ONLY THE THINGS LEFT BY THOSE WHO HUSTLE!”

Dear Year 11 Parents,

 I have been impressed with the way in which the boys have started the year. They are very positive and eager to face the challenges ahead of the H.S.C and fulfilling leadership roles of the College. As 16/17 year olds, Year 11 is very much a big year of maturity. I spoke to the boys about the importance of RESPECT, particularly for themselves and for others in the way we deal with each other and their property. It is a very manly thing to be respectful of others in every capacity.

I aim to send weekly newsletters to keep you informed of Joey’s life and most importantly the involvement of the Year 11 boys at the College. I usually send the newsletters out on a Thursday. I hope you enjoy reading the Newsletters.

The “Quotes” are the ones we use on the Daily Programs for the boys. I try to find things which I hope will benefit and challenge them. This week’s quote I thought was appropriate, as, after such a long break often the boys are slow to get going for numerous reasons, which are quite obvious as the relaxing holiday mode has come to a crashing end and there is also some homesickness to deal with. Darren Frost, David Drain and I have made a point that it is important for each one to start fast and be on top of his routines immediately otherwise the work can quickly build up and things blow out of proportion. The same goes for their training and sport, turn up with a purpose and get into things immediately or otherwise things go to those who do hustle. If you do have any quotes which you find beneficial, please feel free to send them in and I will definitely use them. Whatever challenges the boys to achieve their best, all helps!

The new Dormitories have certainly helped the boys and given them every opportunity to start the new year well. Despite the hot, sticky weather, the boys have managed to sleep very well each night due to the air – conditioned dorms and this has certainly assisted them in waking ready to put their best into each day. Study has also been greatly assisted. Not only the cooler air has helped, but also a new environment, where every boy has commented on the ease which it is to focus in on his work. Whilst we kept the boys in the classrooms for the first few nights to establish some firm and needed routines, tonight we have just completed our first full night of two sessions in the dorms, with many boys commenting how they had got more work completed than they normally do, due to the new and comfortable surroundings. We expect them to keep this up.

Briefly on study, we are very fortunate to have an experienced and energetic boarding staff to assist the boys.

 Darren Frost: (Academic Coordinator): Darren looked after the Academic endeavors of the Graduating Class of 2010 and was very instrumental in the outstanding results achieved by the boys. We are all very fortunate to have him fulfilling this role for the next two years. Darren teaches Legal Studies to our senior boys and is the 1st XI Football coach as well as Convenor of Swimming.

David Drain: (Assistant Boarding Coordinator) teaches Business and Legal studies to our Senior Students. David is an old boy who is heavily involved in Rugby and Athletics at the College. He brings much passion and energy to the position.

Mark Conlon: Is also a Business and Economics teacher at the College and he has worked in Yr. 11 Boarding for the past 3 years.

Bruce Carr: Bruce has just commenced as Religious Education Coordinator  at SJC this year. He comes to us from Parramatta Marist and we are very fortunate to have his presence on our boarding team. Bruce is married with 3 young children.

Matthew Rollo: Another SJC Old Boy who teaches PDHPE to our senior students and who coaches Rugby and Athletics. Matthew has been involved with Yr. 11 Boarding for the past 3 years.

John Summers: Teaches English and is the Colleges Convenor of Debating and Public Speaking. John brings a great balance to the staff and if your son is keen on Public Speaking, John will certainly assist and challenge him. He has been on the Yr. 11 Boarding staff for 4 years.

Damian Chase: Is the Yr. 11 Coordinator at Marcellin College Randwick. He brings much knowledge and understanding of working with 16 – 17 year old boys to the staff. Damian’s wife Bec Smith is an English teacher at SJC.

Paul Graziani: Is the PDHPE Coordinator at Holy Cross College Ryde. He is married with two children and he has worked with Yr. 11 Boarding for the past two years.

Michael McCormack is Assistant Principal at Holy Cross College Ryde who also enjoys giving plenty of his spare time to work with our boys, which he has been doing for the past 2 years.

Adam Whalley: Is from Grafton who has a PDHPE and Science Degree. Adam played prop for the Western Force Super 14 team for 4 seasons before spending last year playing out his career in France. This is his first year with St Joseph’s College and we are very happy to have him working with our boys.

Darren Fitzpatrick: Darren performs the very important role of being one of two adult live in staff, who is in the dormitories to assist and oversea the boys during the night.

You should all feel very comfortable and secure in the knowledge of the people who will be looking after your sons.

We have a busy start to the year as usual. So here is a quick run down on the events in the next few days. 

1. The Academic Prize Giving evening is on tonight starting at 7.00pm in the Hall. All boys must attend in their Blues. It is pleasing to note the numbers of boys that are receiving awards for the work that they did in Year 10.
2. Sport begins on Saturday and all boys have been encouraged to be organised with training in preparation for this. I have attached a copy of the fixtures. This may be useful when planning for Saturday.
3. This Sunday is our Family Mass which is an important event in the Joeys calendar. It is a tremendous way to start the year by coming together as one family to celebrate mass before undertaking the challenges of the year. All boys must return to the College and be seated by in the Hall by 9.45 am dressed in their Blues. There will be a name check at the conclusion of the mass in my office.
4. On Saturday night the P and F are hosting the Parents Cocktail at the pool to welcome new parents to Joeys.

I would like to go over the weekend leave procedures for borders as well as weekday leave times for dayboys. Dayboys, weekly boarders and those with overnight leave permission may leave after their sporting commitment has been completed on Saturday. If you are requesting an overnight for a full boarder this needs to be done by Thursday night each week by completing the relevant form on the Portal on our website.  Each Thursday night in study the boarders complete a Leave form for the weekend. I check these closely and if there are any concerns I will question the boys or contact you. Please communicate with your son each week in regards to his plans for the weekend. I ask that you contact the host family to confirm details if your son has asked to stay at a friend’s place – there is a question relating to this on the form. I have a duty of care for the boys and it is imperative that I know exactly what they are doing each weekend. Feel free to contact me if you have any concerns in regards to weekend leave.

Could I also ask that day boy parents fill in your son’s times for the week on the Portal by Sunday night, 9.00pm.  As mentioned before, please try to keep the times routine, as this greatly benefits all boys. If there are regular changes, once you have agreed to the departure times, have your son log them. This will be one less job for you, and it also gives him some responsibility and ownership of what he is doing in the ensuing week.

The boys need to be back by 8.30pm on Sunday night if they are leaving at the conclusion of the Mass. It is important that the boys do get back on time as we have 9.00pm study and it is good they arrive back with some time to prepare for this and have them focus on the week ahead.

I look forward to seeing you all throughout the year; a year which I hope will be most productive and rewarding for your sons and yourselves. Take care.

Regards

Jeremy Ticehurst

Year 11 Boarding Coordinator