Xavier College Gawler Belt eNewsletter

Principal's Welcome

As the third term comes to an end, I would like to thank staff and students at each campus for their efforts over the term and wish everyone a safe and enjoyable break.

Year 12s Preparing to Leave
For Year 12 students at Gawler Belt, the term break is an opportunity to strike a balance between enjoying activities in their down time and working hard to consolidate the year’s work. Over the break I urge Year 12 students to:

Devote a significant portion of their time each day to revision and study.

Prepare for leaving the Xavier College community. Reflect on the wonderful experiences and friendships they have had while at the College. The first two weeks of Term 4 will be one of celebrating their time at Xavier, including last opportunities for Oratory group activities, House and College Assemblies and time to reflect on the good times, while sharing future dreams and aspirations with their friends.

Look beyond regrets and past failures and focus on the positives. It is vital that students have a positive mindset when finishing tasks and sitting exams.

We are looking forward to celebrating their journey at Xavier with our Year 12 students as their time here draws to a close.

Mark Flaherty
Principal

2024 School Fees

We are pleased to inform our families that there will be no increase in school fees for the 2024 school year. Please read the letter linked below for further information.

Letter to families: School fees for 2024

Important Changes to College Uniform from 2024

Dear Families

Over the past few years there have been a number of changes to the Xavier College Uniform and we would like to remind you of the requirements for students from the commencement of the 2024 school year.

In 2020, information was sent to parents/caregivers informing of a brand refresh of the Xavier College uniform. At this time, students in Year 7 2021 were asked to purchase only the new uniform items with the updated College crest.

Existing students in Years 8 to 12 were given until the completion of their schooling to wear the existing uniform, however, were asked to purchase new items if larger sizes were required during this period.

Accordingly, from the commencement of the 2024 school year all students from Years 7-10 should be in new uniform only (new crest). Only students in Years 11-12 may wear the old uniform which displays the old crest.

In relation to the wearing of the PE uniform, the following now applies:

Campus	Year Levels	Uniform Requirements
Evanston	R-6	PE Uniform. All students will be required to wear the Xavier College uniform from the commencement of the 2025 school year.
Gawler Belt	Current students 7-9	PE Uniform. The Formal Uniform is optional during 2024 and 2025. This is a two-year transition period. All students will wear only the PE Uniform from the commencement of the 2026 school year.
	New students 7-9	PE Uniform
	10-12	Formal Uniform, other than PE/Oratory days. (no change to current requirements)
Two Wells	R-9	PE Uniform.
	10-12 (future years)	Formal Uniform, other than PE/Oratory days.

Kind regards,

Mark Flaherty
Principal

Letter to Families - Uniform Update

Continued Changes to School Uniform from 2024

At its meeting on 23 May 2023, the College Board agreed that effective from the commencement of the 2024 school year, all students from Reception to Year 9 at all campuses of the College will wear the PE Uniform only.

The formal College Uniform will only be expected to be worn once students enter Years 10–12 (unless required by subject choice).

Please find below a copy of the letter previously sent to all families on 5 June 2023.

Letter to Families - Change of Uniform Policy from 2024

Uniform Shop - Holidays Opening Times

Take note of the following dates and times the uniform shop will be open during the October School Holidays:

First Week Closed
OPEN: Wednesday 11 October - 8:30am to 12:30pm
OPEN: Thursday 12 October - 12:30pm to 4:30pm

The uniform shop will resume usual operating hours at beginning of Term 4.

Uniform Price List - from September 2023

2023 Regional Assembly

College Musical - High School Musical

On 22 and 23 September, students from Xavier College had the opportunity to perform High School Musical at the Shedley Theatre. The cast, orchestra and crew shared their amazing talents and artistic flair, performing a total of four shows to excited audience members.

After many months of rehearsals and contending with various obstacles, the students were ecstatic and relieved to present their hard work on the main stage and were thankful for the opportunity to perform.

The performances were thoroughly enjoyed by all and highlighted the professionalism, dedication, and growth the students had developed from this unique and valuable experience.

Many thanks must go to the production team, staff and parents who have worked tirelessly and committed time and effort for the success of this production. We look forward to our 2025 production, which will indeed be another showstopper!

Sanjay Mohanaraj
Teacher

An Arts Journey Exhibition: A Creative Spectacle at Gawler Belt Auditorium
We are thrilled to recap the enchanting day of creativity, expression, and artistry at the An Arts Journey Exhibition, which unfolded on Saturday 12 August, at the Gawler Belt Auditorium. This event was a true celebration of artistic talent, bringing together students, parents, staff, and the local community in a harmonious blend of colour, music, food and creativity.

Harmonious Melodies: Student Musicians Shine
The day kicked off with a melodious note as our three exceptionally talented student musicians Holly Sayce, Emily Nicol, and Selina Kennett took centre stage. Their enchanting tunes resonated through the auditorium, setting the perfect tone for a day filled with artistic exploration and inspiration. Audiences enjoyed the beautifully presented food created by the hospitality students led by Ms Smart and Ms Monticelli, while they listened to our musicians and watched the Faces of Xavier slideshow.

Faces of Xavier: A Digital Art Showcase
One of the highlights of the exhibition was the captivating Faces of Xavier digital exhibition. Showcasing the diverse talents of our students from all our campuses, this digital gallery unveiled our brave students’ self-portraits and portraits of the wider College community. Visitors had the opportunity to vote for the winners of the ‘Peoples Choice’ artworks. Our winners from Gawler Belt Campus were Lauren Schulz, Kane Graetz, Autum Menner and Hannah Somerville. From Two Wells Campus we had Shayla Hilton, Eva-Maria Chalouhy and Alessia Rotolo.

Cubist Creativity: Parent, Student, and Staff Portraits
The cubist style portraits displayed at the exhibition were nothing short of masterpieces. Created collaboratively by parents, students, and staff, at the workshops led by our own talented Mrs Justice, these artworks were a testament to the unity and diversity within our school community. Each portrait was a unique expression of identity and a beautiful representation of the creativity that thrives at Xavier College.

Community Canvas: Arts on the Plains
The Arts on the Plains canvas was a living masterpiece in the making. Throughout the day, community members of all ages came together to contribute their brushstrokes to this evolving canvas. The result was a vibrant and dynamic reflection of our community's collective spirit and artistic passion – the final work will be unveiled at a later event.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the An Arts Journey Exhibition a resounding success. Whether you were a supporter, tech assistant, musician, artist, chef, portrait creator, or a painter of the community canvas, your passion for the arts made this event truly exceptional.

Thank you for being a part of this memorable day.

Andrea Duregon and Adele Justice
Teachers

Catholic Schools Music Festival

Recently, students from across our Two Wells and Evanston campuses joined 11 other schools participating in the Catholic Schools Festival Choir rehearsals at Loreto College. During rehearsals the combined choir was put through their paces and practiced their repertoire and choreography. The students had a wonderful time and are eager to share their hard work and achievements with their families. Our students will perform at the Catholic Schools Music Festival at the Adelaide Festival Centre on Friday 29 September. Tickets are available via Ticketek:

https://premier.ticketek.com.au/Shows/Show.aspx?sh=CSMFEST23

Amy Waters
Music Coordinator

Knights of the Southern Cross

On Friday of Week 8, Xavier College competed in the annual Knights of the Southern Cross Carnival. Knights of the Southern Cross provides our Year 8 students to compete in a wide variety of sports against Thomas More College and St Columba College. The three schools are pillars of Catholic Education in the northern suburbs and provide our students with the opportunity to interact in a respectful, fun and competitive environment. Year 10 students were selected as coaches of the teams and showed fantastic leadership and commitment, upholding the school values throughout the day.

Xavier College won the girls basketball, netball, and boys football, though we narrowly missed claiming the top spot, finishing as the overall runners-up to Thomas More College, with all of our students showcasing their talent and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Milos Banic
Acting Sports Coordinator

Evanston - Head of Campus

Dear Xavier College Families,

As we approach the end of another term, we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you for your incredible support and dedication thoughout these past few months. It has been a busy term, filled with learning, growth, and memorable moments.

Xavier Day: A Highlight of the Term
One of the standout highlights of this term was Xavier Day. Our students had a blast, and it was heartwarming to witness them come together to celebrate our wonderful college. Xavier Day was not just about fun and games; it was also a special time for our students to build lasting relationships with one another. The sense of unity and camaraderie on that day truly embodied the spirit of Xavier College.

Looking Forward
As we head into the break, we hope you have a restful and enjoyable time with your families. We are excited to see what the next term has in store as we continue our journey of learning and growth together.

Once again, thank you for making this term a great one. Your partnership is invaluable, and we look forward to an even more fantastic Term 4.

Rozanna Elmassih
Head of Campus - Evanston

Evanston - Xavier Day

Recently, Xavier College Evanston Campus celebrated Xavier Day! Xavier Day is when we take time to thank God for the past, celebrate the present, and pray for the future. We celebrate that we may be One in Christ. The day started by coming together in prayer to celebrate our College, and then moving into elective activities chosen by the students. The students enjoyed a variety of activities from cooking, crafts, discos, and obstacle courses! Xavier Day was a wonderful celebration, spent with friends and staff from across all year levels. Happy Xavier Day!

Anthea Lipp
Early Years R - 2 Coordinator

Evanston - Italian Day

In Week 9, the Evanston Campus held our Italian Day! This year, we celebrated the Italian language and culture with a fun-filled day of market stalls, class activities and gelato!

The day began with a captivating Italian-themed assembly led by our Year 3 classes. This assembly took our students on an exciting journey through Italy's most iconic tourist sites, making learning about Italian culture and heritage engaging and enjoyable.

In line with our curriculum, our Year 6 students have been immersing themselves in the cultural significance of markets in Italy. Italian markets, or "Mercati," play a vital role in bringing communities together and showcasing Italy's passion for fresh food and produce. As part of this learning experience, our Year 6 students had the opportunity to create their own market stalls, offering a variety of goods to our school community. All proceeds from these stalls were generously donated to the Hutt Street Centre, supporting those in need.

Our students' market stalls were a hit, featuring a delightful array of games, delicious food, unique trinkets, and handcrafted items. It was heartwarming to witness our students actively participating in various Italian-themed activities throughout the day, eagerly anticipating their lunchtime treat of gelato.

Italian Day was a fantastic celebration of the Italian language and culture. It not only enriched our students' understanding of Italy but also fostered a sense of community and philanthropy among them.

Thank you to the Evanston Campus community for making this day a success!

Diana Loprete
Italian Teacher

Congratulations to the following students who recently represented Xavier College and the Gawler District in SAPSASA sporting events.

Hockey

Zoe King
Archer Batki
Fletcher Rieck

Soccer

Bliss Mueller
Gianni Consalvo

Athletics

Maddison Ahrens
Jayden Johnson

Lyndon Draper
Sports Coordinator

Evanston - R U OK? Day

The staff and students at the Evanston Campus participated in important conversations and learning opportunities on 'R U OK? Day'. We highlighted the importance of talking about how we are feeling with others, identifying our trust networks and joined together with fellow students and colleagues to spend time in meaningful conversation with one another.

Our Year 5 students participated in a range of activities, developed by visiting Year 11 students from the Gawler Belt Campus. Our students discussed issues relating to mental health and wellbeing. From cupcake and cookie decorating to watercolour painting, the activities were perfectly tailored to put minds at ease and open up a little to discuss feelings. Other activities included ice breaker games and team building group challenges, which brought the students from both campuses closer together.

Anthea Lipp
Early Years R - 2 Coordinator

Evanston - Saber Academy

The students at Xavier College Evanston were treated to an exciting morning on the Pupil Free Day where Master Mikhayl from Kyushin-Ryu Australia came and ran a saber academy and hero academy for the children in OSHC.

The older children were taught defensive moves and how to flourish the Light Saber and a ‘flow’ (set movements in a pattern).

The younger children participated in a hero academy and were thrilled to be able to hold the Light Sabers, even though they were a bit heavy for them to swing around.

"It was fun, because we got to play with the Light Sabers and learn how to attack and defend using them with our friends." – Amelia (Year 5)

"They were fun, because they made sounds." – Reign (Year 1)

"They were fun because we could battle with them." – Ben (Year 1)

"I got to dress up and be Hulk." – Oakland (Reception)

"It was great cause I got to hold a light saber." – Finn (Reception)

Rachel Brooke
OSHC Director

Evanston - Year 12 Child Studies Visit

In Weeks 7 and 8 the Year 2 classes were excited to have the Year 12 Child Studies classes from Gawler Belt visit to teach and show us some new games and activities.

"We did challenges, fun activities and dribbled balls. We looked for shapes around the school. The activities were exciting." - Hudson

"Yesterday when the Year 12's visited I did a pasta challenge. We had a long noodle we had to put in our mouth and we tried to get the noodle in the hole. Then we went to the SAMMAT and did a challenge. We did boys versus girls. The activities were really amazing and it was fun to meet the older students." - Boston

Anthea Lipp
Early Years R - 2 Coordinator

Evanston - Tri Skills Gymnastics

During Term 3 our Receptions, Year 1s, and Year 2s were lucky enough to learn fundamental movement skills through Gymnastics. For over 25 years Tri Skills Australia has been an institution in primary schools and are still delivering meaningful and exciting programs tailored specifically to young people. Our students loved climbing, swinging, jumping, rolling, and performing simple movement sequences in a controlled environment.

Lyndon Draper
Sports Coordinator

Evanston - Embrace Kids and Peaceful Classrooms Programs

The Year 5 students are immersing themselves in the Embrace Kids Classroom Program. They have completed lesson one and two which focused on:

Our Incredible Bodies
Comparison to Compassion

One of the activities they have completed included brainstorming the things that you appreciate about what your body does for you and why this is important to you.

This lesson focused on changing mindsets around how their body looks to what their body can do and what they are grateful their body does.

The students also focused on social media and the impact some platforms have on our wellbeing and how to recognize that the majority of social media content is altered and unrealistic. The activities included strategies to respond to social comparisons with kindness and compassion.

Year 3A have been participating in the Peaceful Classroom program this term. They have learnt many mindful strategies to help when those big emotions kick in. One strategy is Mindful Movement. This is when we are fully conscious of the movements we make. Mindful Movement is a great way to help regulate big feelings and help children quiet their minds by developing a stronger connection to their body.

Andrea White
Teacher

Evanston - Dr Quark's Science Show

In Week 7, our Reception to Year 6 students were treated to an amazing display of scientific genius by Dr Quark as part of our Science Week celebrations. Part circus, part magic tricks, Dr Quark cleverly imparted scientific knowledge on a captivated audience whilst juggling, plate spinning and unicycling. Dr Quark demonstrated and explained the effects of gravity, momentum, friction, air pressure, energy transfer and push and pull forces.

Stella Harms
Teacher

Gawler Belt - Head of Campus

At our recent Campus Assembly, we highlighted the achievements of many of our students and staff, many of which feature in this edition of the newsletter. I want to congratulate and thank them again for their outstanding, positive contribution to campus life at Gawler Belt.

It is essential to take the time to acknowledge all different types of achievement, not just those relating to academic or sporting success. While these are important, we need to remember the holistic nature of school life and that it can allow all our community members to share their talents and skills to enrich the lives of those around them. Your artistic performances, feats of endurance, social justice and environmental concern, teamwork and leadership are a source of joy and inspiration to all.

Today, we celebrate Xavier Day at the Gawler Belt Campus. It's an opportunity to thank God for the past, celebrate the present, and pray for the future. The theme for this morning's prayer service was "One in Christ" – our College motto.

Our motto comes from the letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, which we heard part of this morning. In his letter, St Paul reminds us that the body of Christ has many parts and that we, who make up those many parts, have different gifts that we use in union with Christ – that we are One in Christ.

I want to draw the attention of our Year 12 students to the comments made by Mr Flaherty about how they should be engaging in their final days at the College at the top of this newsletter.

As we enter this term break, I wish everyone a safe and restful time in preparation for the business of Term 4.

St John Bosco, pray for us.

Happy Xavier Day, everyone!

Gareth Watson
Acting Head of Campus - Gawler Belt
APRIM - Gawler Belt and Two Wells

Gawler Belt - 2024 Campus Captains

Congratulations to the newly elected Gawler Belt Campus Captains of 2024: Bridie McIlduff, Ryan Lane-Ellis, and Emily Nicol. These three outstanding students were selected by their peers and staff members. We wish Bridie, Ryan and Emily all the best for their leadership roles, and acknowledge the fantastic efforts of each student who put themselves forward.

Gawler Belt - 2024 Student Leaders

Introducing the Gawler Belt Campus student leaders for 2024. Congratulations on your appointments!

Gawler Belt - Patron Saint

The College recently had the privilege of hosting the relic of Saint John Bosco, our patron saint. The relic of St John Bosco consists of a small fragment of brain tissue encased within the chest cavity of the wax replica of the saint. Students and staff had the opportunity to participate in short prayer services in the presence of the relic. It is a physical reminder for us that the Salesian spirit of Xavier College has its origin in the life and work of Don Bosco, who spent his life caring for young people.

Gawler Belt - Xavier In Concert

Our end of year music showcase will be wonderful opportunity to see our music students perform as soloists and in a variety of ensembles. Our incredibly talented hospitality department will provide a variety of savoury and dessert boxes for guests at interval, and as this is a seated cabaret style of event, guests are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner/snacks to enjoy whilst watching our talented students perform. You may also BYO non alcoholic drinks, and tea/coffee will be available at interval. Doors open 5:30pm for a 6pm start. Please arrive to be seated by 5:45pm. Please use the seating plan to choose seats and communicate with other families if you would like to sit on the same table. There are 8 seats per table or you can book an individual seat at a table and meet and mingle with other families.

Tickets can be purchase via the following link: https://www.trybooking.com/CLPIF

We look forward to seeing you there!

Leanne Savill
Music Coorindator

Xavier In Concert Tickets

Gawler Belt - R U OK? Day

'R U OK? Day' endeavours to motivate every Australian to dedicate time to those who hold significance in their lives, urging them to seek assistance if necessary and to follow up to ensure that support is ongoing.

To support this day, the Gawler Belt Campus organised a wellbeing week to promote students to remember that they don't have to be an expert to extend a hand – simply being a caring friend and an attentive listener suffices. The week also entailed a variety of events to promote wellbeing, particularly in honour of 'R U OK Day'. These activities included a student art competition to design the 'R U OK Day' poster, a musical presentation, a meditation session, sack races, dodgeball, tug of war, and a BBQ lunch, all aimed at raising awareness for 'R U OK Day'. Dr Naomi Rutten also presented to the students, to provide them with advice around resilience and how to look after their well-being.

Ben Whyte
College Counsellor

Gawler Belt - R U OK? Day Excursion

In Week 8, our Year 11 Health and Wellbeing students travelled to the Evanston and Two Wells campuses to engage the Year 5 and Year 7 students in various 'R U OK? Day' activities. Students worked collaboratively to design activities that emphasised the importance of checking in on one another, building positive connections and raising awareness of mental health.

By involving our younger students across each campus, we hope to instil the significance of mental health awareness from an early age and encourage open conversations. Together, as a school community, we can foster a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and heard.

Brenna Wood & Leah Noto
Teachers

Gawler Belt - Royal Adelaide Show

On Wednesday of Week 7, Mr Daniel Oates, Ms Chrissie Scott, Ms Zoe Joyce and Mr Michael Terwel took the goats and a passionate group of Year 11 students to the Royal Adelaide Show. Wednesday’s schedule included weighing of the goats, which occurred in preparation for their judging on the Thursday with putting them into the weight categories. This was followed by the Grand Parade with all the 30 agriculture schools and their animals in the Main Arena.

On Thursday the judging of the goats and handlers occurred, with over 250 goats and 30 schools competing. The judging started with our two Saanen dairy goats, Messi and Vakoo, in the second category with Messi receiving 6^th place. Our four Boer goats were in the heavyweight class categories with 2 Minute Noodle receiving 3^rd place in the B category, Jaquavius receiving 2^nd in the C category and Rahkeem receiving 1^st in category. Rahkeem was also awarded Reserve Champion of the heavyweight category. All students demonstrated great handling skills and represented Xavier College at a high standard.

Zoe Joyce
Agriculture Coordinator

Gawler Belt - Pedal Prix

The 24 hour Pedal Prix race was recently held at the Murray Bridge riverside circuit.

Brilliant sunshine on both days enabled an enjoyable experience for families and spectators, however the warm conditions were challenging for racers who had to deal with high temperatures inside the cockpits of the vehicles. Temperatures were such that riders emerged drenched with sweat, exhausted and needing time to recover for their next stint.

Murray Bridge is a tight circuit, however vehicles still reach high speeds and there were many crashes on the smaller track upon which 152 teams competed. Most of our riders suffered being knocked into walls or rolling over several times on each of their stints and this inflicted a heavy toll on our vehicle. Our mechanics overcame some significant issues caused by race damage on several occasions throughout the race. It was a real achievement to keep Bosco 1 running so that the boys could bring it home in 22^nd position in their Senior Secondary category of 46 vehicles.

This is a grueling event because the riders have to complete three demanding stints each in a non-stop 24 hour race. This is challenging at the best of times but is extra difficult when students are coming from their beds in the small hours after having limited sleep. It also takes courage to race when riders know they will be rammed, rolled and smashed, especially in night-time low visibility. Well done Eamon, Daan, Rhyley, Cameron, Taylor, Elijah, Ethan, Thomas, Owen and Spencer.

Racing is only one dimension of the weekend however as it is an opportunity for our team members and families to socialise, not just with each other but also with other teams. Three ex-Xavier Pedal Prix students (Kyle, Riley and Gerard) now race with different community teams but they always make sure to drop in to catch up and even assisted us with computer technical advice. We have come to appreciate how much students enjoy the Pedal Prix community experience when some choose to continue riding as adults or come back to visit as Nicholas did on the weekend.

Many people contribute to the success of this event and we would like to thank our amazing parents who willingly undertook Marshalling duties at unhospitable hours, cooked for the team and families, performed technical / monitoring roles, mechanical support and tent building, then packing down.

Since this is our final item for the year, we’d like to give a big thankyou to Willaston Auto for the amazing paint job they completed on our Bosco III vehicle at the beginning of the season. Also thanks to She’s Apples, Drakes Gawler East and Crestline Meats for their generous support at our 24 hour race.

The team also benefits from the support of Xavier Maintenance staff who organise our transport vehicles and a multitude of items necessary for the weekend. Thank you for your patience and hard work.

Rob Welsh
Library Technician

Gawler Belt - MASA Quiz Night

Recently, six teams of Xavier College students went to Trinity College Senior to compete in the annual quiz night held by the Mathematical Association of South Australia. The junior team composed of Joseph Dwyer, Vivaan Sharma, Luca Renshaw and Eli Lillecrapp placed 2^nd for Mathematics and 2^nd for general knowledge and received a cash prize for their efforts. The intermediate team composed of Terry Berry, Hannah Somerville, Finlay Kath and Jett Warner placed 11^th for both Mathematics and general knowledge. The intermediate team composed of Zoe Molloy, Rachel Mudge, Innay Smythe and Lilah Phillips placed 6^th for Mathematics and 5^th for general knowledge.

The senior team composed of Patrick Sutton, Ryan Sutton, Kai Vermeeren and Mitchell Gammie placed 5^th for both Mathematics and general knowledge. The senior team composed of Emily Bottroff, Maddison Williams, Jessie Dwyer and Erin Noble placed 8^th for Mathematics and tied 5^th for general knowledge. The senior team composed of Cooper Heerebout, Sebastian Hyde, Flynn Wandell and Cooper Semmler placed 4^th for Mathematics and 7^th for general knowledge. It was a great night with a lot of brainpower needed to get through. Thank you to the participants for being involved and to their families for bringing them out on a long, cold winter evening.

Stephen Monach
Curriculum Leader - Mathematics

Gawler Belt - Child Studies Excursion

Recently the Year 12 Child Studies classes visited the Year 1 and 2's at the Two Wells and Evanston Campuses. This was part of the Stage 2 Child Studies course where students conducted an activity that promoted growth and development in junior primary students. There were a variety of activities that students participated in such as slime making, obstacle courses, colour mixing using playdough, and a nature walk. These activities promoted the College's values of RUAH as students had to collaborate with others, whilst encouraging learner qualities like curiosity. It was a great experience to see the other campuses and meet the younger cohorts. We hope they had as much fun as we did!

Lily Foster
Year 12 Student

Gawler Belt - White Card Training

Students from Xavier College have again undertaken their White Card training facilitated by Adrian Matthews from PEER Education Employment and Training on Campus.

The White Card is an essential license for students looking to work in the construction industry. It is legally required to access any construction sites when working in several professions including metal or timber framing, concreting, plumbing, electrical, roof plumbing, tiling etc.

Many of these students are using their White Card as the industry immersion evidence required to obtain Government Funding towards a Vocational Education and Training course in 2024.

It has also supported some in being able to undertake work experience in the industry, which they are hoping will lead into school based apprenticeships.

If a senior student is interested in undertaking this training, then please let Mrs Hutchins know. When we have the required number of 16 students we can schedule this opportunity again.

Renee Hutchins
Future Pathways Coordinator

Gawler Belt - Peer Mentor Program

In Terms 2 and 3, students in Year 10 and 11 at the Gawler Belt Campus had the opportunity to participate in the Peer Mentoring Program to enhance their leadership abilities and foster a stronger sense of community within the school. Students achieved this by organising a range of lunchtime activities for students in Years 7 and 8. These activities included art and craft sessions, dance performances, drama activities, as well as basketball and volleyball tournaments. These events not only facilitated new friendships among younger students but also contributed to the development of leadership skills among the older students.

Ben Whyte
College Counsellor

Gawler Belt - Alberton Oval

Recently, a selected group of students and staff attended a cross-campus excursion with the aim of building transport, money handling and communication skills. We travelled by train to Alberton Oval, where we were hosted by former Port Adelide player, David Hutton, and amazing life member Margie. We watched a video about the club, and then had a tour of their museum. To conclude, we watched the AFLW team train. We then travelled to the city and enjoyed a lunch at the Myer Centre food court, before returning back to school via train and bus.

One of the best outcomes for the day was the growth of relationships between the students and staff on the excursion, as well as seeing students from different year levels and campuses blending together.

Jo Bakker
Inclusive Education Coordinator

Two Wells - Head of Campus

As we approach the end of another term, we would like to take this opportunity to provide you with some important updates and information regarding our Two Wells Campus community.

We are also excited to share with you the progress on our gymnasium. The construction is well on time, with the hope that it will be completed by the start of Term 4. This state-of-the-art facility will provide our students with enhanced opportunities for physical education and other activities. We cannot wait to see our students benefit from this fantastic addition to our College.

As part of the gymnasium update, we anticipate taking ownership of our Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) area. Our new premises that will better accommodate the needs of our students and staff. The new location will offer improved facilities and resources, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for our students during before and after-school hours. We will provide further details and a smooth transition plan closer to the relocation date.

Furthermore, we are delighted to share that our teacher interview process has been both successful and ongoing. We have been fortunate to attract highly qualified and dedicated educators who are passionate about providing the best possible education for our students. The interviews have allowed us to carefully select individuals who align with our College’s values and educational philosophy. We are confident that our teaching staff will continue to inspire and support our students' growth and development.

It has been an exciting time in the community with all kinds of sporting events happening. We have really enjoyed hearing about the highs and lows from our families. Congratulations to all who were involved in sporting events during the Term. We are always proud of our students who participate so enthusiastically.

Term 3 is often challenging with cold weather, and subsequent illness. We hope you enjoy the warmer weather coming and wish you all safe and enjoyable holiday break so that we can all return to school refreshed and ready for the next term.

Janet Coomber
Head of Campus - Two Wells

Two Wells - Syd Wins Second

Syd Irish recently entered his duck at the Balaklava show. 'Foodland', being named after the fact a male duck is called a Drake, won second place in the competition. Syd was happy to share this win and is extremely proud of his prize-winning duck.

Two Wells - R U OK? Day

Week 8 was Well-being Week, a week dedicated to raising awareness for students wellbeing and ways to check in with those around them. Throughout the week there was a variety of activities on offer, ranging from mindful colouring, yoga and well-being poster competitions. Students were encouraged to reflect on their life and record things they were thankful for, and in turn the "I am thankful for..." wall was created. Students showed fantastic RUAH throughout the week, going out of their way to check in on others and support their friends and younger students through activities.

Naomi Henderson
College Counsellor

Two Wells - Father's and Special Men's Day

In Week 6, our Xavier College Two Wells campus Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 students celebrated Father's and Special Men's Day. This special day acknowledges and celebrates the important contribution, hard work, commitments, faith and love fathers and special men sow into the lives of our students. Before visiting classrooms, our fathers and special men gathered to enjoy coffee, tea, and donuts together. Students were incredibly excited and proud to welcome loved ones into classrooms after lunch to share their learning as well as participate in a variety of art and craft, reading, and drawing activities.

We wish all our fathers a wonderful and well-deserved Father's Day!

Adele Taylor
Early Years R - 2 Coordinator

Two Wells - Road Safety Centre

In Week 9, students from Year 4 travelled to the Road Safety Centre. The day was a great success, all students positively participated in bike riding on the mock roadway and learnt about road rules, traffic signs and pedestrian safety. We were fortunate enough to also spend part of the day at Bonython Park with the amazing playground facilities and play some games of cricket, soccer and football. The Year 4’s had lots of fun and gave their best effort over the whole day.

Mikayla King
Teacher

Two Wells - Port Adelaide Clinic

Over the past three weeks the Year 5 classes have been lucky enough to have players from the Port Adelaide Football Club visit our college to run a clinic. Players from the AFLW team spoke to our kids about healthy lifestyles and the ideal diet for before big games! The students had a blast learning about reaction times, how exercise influences heart rates and some students were even lucky enough (or unlucky enough depending on preferences) to take home some Port Adelaide merchandise. All students also received an official team poster for the 2023 season. The players also ran an R-5 assembly to teach the rest of the junior school about how to be the best and healthiest versions of themselves. Big thanks to the Port team for coming out!

James Preece
Teacher

Notice - Recreation and Sport Precinct

Two Wells Recreation and Sport Precinct Master Planning – Younger People, People with a Disability, and Retired or older people Focus Groups

Hearing from local youth, people with disabilities, and older folk is important to plan a great future for their participation in recreation and sport in Two Wells.

You are invited to attend a Focus Group on Wednesday 4 October at the Two Wells Football and Netball Club.