2022 | Issue 12 | SJC Newsletter

It was a joy to welcome back Bill Jennings to lead our St Joseph’s annual Time & Space Mother/Mentor and Son Event live after having to go online last year. This unique experience follows a set formula of interactive encounters to create guided dialogue allowing open communication to take place focusing on the student’s transition into Year 7. This event also provides other students across the College a chance to participate in a Service Learning opportunity to gain four hours and 4 House points by helping with the setup, organisation and group leaders.

‘The experience for me was refreshing as it brought back memories from when I was in Year 7 at the mother son night and it reminded me how valuable my parents and teachers are.’ (Student helper)

'What stood out for me was how mature some of the Year 7's are. Two of the Year 7's in my group were making comments that were very mature.' (Student helper)

'I liked the ideas and thoughts shared with the group because it made me re-evaluate my mindset in being a good son.' (Year 7 Student)

'This chat made me feel appreciated and loved and I learnt lots more about my mum than I already knew.' (Year 7 Student)

'I didn’t realise that there would be as much talking and relating to other people that you don’t know. It was surprisingly helpful for me, as I got to connect and get to know more people.' (Year 7 Student)

'I was so honoured to see my Aunty’s treasured items.' (Year 7 Student)

'It was great to see what different boys and parents think of starting high school and also to learn about what other people thought of the transition.' (Year 7 Student)

'I loved hearing from other year 7 boys. They were honest, forthcoming and engaged. I was so proud of them, melted my heart.' (Year 7 Mum)

'Great Opportunity in a safe and comfortable place to let us share our thoughts.' (Year 7 Mum)

'I loved connecting with my son.' (Year 7 Mum)

'Great night and wonderful opportunity highlighting the importance of connection.' (Year 7 Mum)

'I’m really glad I came along and had an opportunity to reflect with my son. I learnt new things about him I may not have had without this experience.' (Year 7 Mum)

We are blessed and thankful to have the love, care an understanding of our mothers, grandmothers, aunties, carers, teachers and the many mentors in our lives who are always there to listen and support us.

As Jesus was saying these things, a woman in the crowd called out, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.” Luke 11:27

We look forward to our students enjoying our St Joseph’s Father’s Day breakfast on Wednesday 31^st with their Fathers, Carers and Grandfathers who are all invited. Book via link: https://events.humanitix.com/fathers-day-breakfast-2022/tickets

Remember to attach a photo to be part of the slideshow at the breakfast this year!

Social Justice Workshops

On Tuesday 9 August St Joseph’s College hosted over 60 Year 9 student leaders from across each of the five regional Catholic colleges.

MacKillop Family Services facilitated a full day of social justice workshops with presentations about how they support the most vulnerable families in our greater Geelong community. Students were presented with information about trauma education, Paws 4 Pals therapy dogs, heritage and history of the organization and the role of therapeutic life stories.

Students embraced the opportunity to learn and collaborate with each other. A visit from therapy dogs Billy & Indi was a highlight.

“It was great to hear about who MacKillop Family Services are, and the work they do with children and families in the local area. We also learnt about the old orphanages that used to be on the sites of St Joseph’s and Sacred Heart. One way that we have supported and continue to support this amazing organisation is by donating to Paws4Kids, which gives MacKillop Family Services funds to get therapy dogs to accompany trauma survivors to return to the classroom. I look forward to future collaboration and planning some fundraising activities.”

Callum W - Year 9