Xavier College Gawler Belt eNewsletter

Principal's Message

Dear Families

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone in our community for their contributions to another successful term. I wish all our families a safe and restful break.

Acting Head of Campus – Gawler Belt

Please find a letter from Catholic Education SA announcing John Cameron’s appointment as the Xavier College Transition Coordinator at the Catholic Education Office, effective from Week 1, Term 3 until December 2025. I am pleased to inform you that Mr Chris Martin has been appointed as the Acting Head of Campus – Gawler Belt during this period.

Congratulations to John on his new role, and a warm welcome to Chris as he joins the Xavier College community. I wish them both every success in their new positions.

School Performance Report

In accordance with the Australian Education Act 2013, I am required to provide a School Performance Report on the previous school year.

The 2023 School Performance Report is now available on the College Website and also available in hard copy upon request in the Front Office of all three campuses.

Mark Flaherty
Principal

Uniform Shop in School Holidays

The Uniform Shop will be open in the school holidays on Thursday, 18 July from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

Update - Change of Bank Account Details

Please note our bank account details have changed. All families will receive a letter and statement with new banking details in the mail in the near future.

Power to Thrive Program for Defence Students

In Week 7, Defence students from Year 7 through to Year 12 embarked on a journey to the Port Adelaide Football Club where they participated in the Power To Thrive program.

Students were teamed up with Defence students from other schools and engaged in workshops run by the AFL and AFLW players, discussing topics such as:

Fixed vs Growth Mindset/Goal Setting
Gratitude/Mindfulness
Identifying and using character strengths
AFL skills

Our Defence students also had fun with the 70ft ninja run, mega skee ball, carnival fun zone, soccer/footy darts and had recess and lunch provided by the Club. Students were also given merchandise which they were then able to have signed on the day.

It was beautiful to see the connections that were made.

Laura Cooper
Defence School Mentor

St Vincent de Paul Society Winter Appeal

Once again, the Xavier College Community has demonstrated its remarkable generosity through our annual St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. Students and staff across our three campuses were encouraged to contribute either high-quality canned food or monetary donations to assist the local conference in addressing their growing needs during this time of year.

The response was incredible: over 9,000 cans were collected (Gawler Belt and Two Wells), alongside new blankets in various sizes, gloves, and beanies (Two Wells) valued at $700. Additionally, a significant cash donation of $1054.00 (Evanston) was made to further support the essential work of the local St Vinnie’s conference. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone in the College community who contributed to this year’s appeal.

Kristynn Ross, Nicole Russell and Gareth Watson
Assistant Heads of Campus - Mission

Dear Families

As we come to the end of another school term at Xavier College Evanston, we would like to extend our gratitude to all students, families, and staff for their dedication and hard work. Last week our teachers immersed themselves in fundamental curriculum planning which was instrumental to the teaching and learning in the upcoming semester. It has been a term filled with growth, achievements, and memorable learning experiences for our students.

Mid-Year Reception Transition

We are thrilled to celebrate that our new Reception students have completed their transition program and will be officially welcomed into our school community with a ‘Welcome Liturgy’. This program has been designed to help our youngest learners settle into their new environment, get acquainted with their teachers and peers, and begin their educational journey with confidence. We invite families to join us in celebrating this milestone and extend a warm welcome to our new students and their families.

Semester One School Reports

We would like to remind families to expect their child's Semester 1 school report shortly. These reports provide a comprehensive overview of your child's progress, achievements, and areas for further development across all subjects, in addition to the ongoing reporting from SEQTA. We encourage you to review the report carefully, celebrate your child's successes, and discuss any questions you may have with their teachers. We are committed to working together to support every student in reaching their full potential.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education journey. Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable break ahead.

Rozanna Elmassih
Head of Campus - Evanston

Evanston - Upcoming Photo Day

This is a reminder to families that our Evanston Campus Photo Day is on Thursday, 15 August. Please see below information on ordering school photos and contact the Evanston Campus if you have any further questions.

Evanston - Cross Country Championships

Congratulations to Charlotte, Rocco and Saverio for proudly representing our campus at the recent Cross Country Championships in Oakbank. These exceptional students were chosen for their outstanding abilities, dedication, receptiveness to feedback, and positive attitudes demonstrated during the trials at Dead Mans Pass in Gawler.

Lyndon Draper
Sports Coordinator

Evanston - Embrace Classroom Program

The Year 5 students have completed the Embrace Classroom Program and have thoroughly enjoyed it. One of the activities they were asked to complete was to write a TED Talk. The extracts below reflect what the students learnt and the impact the program had on them:

My TED Talk

'I want to tell you all something, it doesn’t matter who you are, it doesn’t matter. You’re not like anyone else because you are yourself, you don’t have to change to be like someone else. The only thing I should be saying is that you should respect who you are, we should always be who we are and take care of our bodies. You are special the way you are, if you fall and can’t get back up, don’t just think you’re now not useful, your body is there for you, there is always a way you can get back up because you’re not alone. Your body is always there for you' - Rose, Year 5.

'We have been learning "Embrace" with Mrs White. She has been a great teacher. What we have been learning about is how to appreciate our bodies and if anyone bullies you or if you see anybody getting left out or getting upset you can always help them' - Imogen, Year 5.

'Hi, I’m Lailani and I’m going to talk to you about how YOU can make a difference. You are a powerful person no matter what you look like. I’ve seen people judge themselves about how they look or how they are worthless. Without YOU so many things wouldn’t be possible and if you think you don’t do enough, EXPRESS YOURSELF! YOU are amazing and people are proud of who you are!' - Lailani, Year 5.

'Hi I’m Eden. I’m here to talk about how people are more busy thinking about how their body looks than how much it does for you. People are focusing on what other people think about themselves. We all need to feel confident about our bodies, because it doesn’t matter what other people think. It only matters how we treat it and what it does for us. That’s why the Embrace Program was made. It helps people understand how great our bodies are and how everyone is unique, and no one should be bullied. Let me give you an example of what is called bullying a body, when someone makes fun of the shape of your body and can say mean things about it then most people think they don’t matter anymore which can cause lots of problems if you think about it' - Eden, Year 5.

Andrea White
Wellbeing Teacher

Evanston - Northern Cluster Basketball Carnival

In Week 6, Xavier College students dazzled spectators at the annual Catholic Schools North Eastern Basketball Carnival held at The Lights Community & Sports Centre in Lightsview, a venue that provided the perfect backdrop for the event.

The boys team encountered challenges as only five out of the expected eight players were able to participate due to illness, leaving them with no substitutes. Despite this setback, they showed resilience, pushing through all five games with determination and spirit.

Meanwhile, the girls team, comprising primarily of netballers, managed to field a full team of eight players, allowing for strategic rotations throughout the games. With just one loss and a draw in their tally for the day, they found themselves in the Grand Final on court one. Initially nervous, they quickly got their rhythm, securing a resounding victory over Our Lady of Hope PS, clinching the coveted shield for Xavier College. Adding to the triumph, Savanna was honoured with the Respect Award, a testament to her outstanding performance as recognised by the umpires.

Congratulations to both teams for their remarkable achievements, embodying the spirit of teamwork and excellence.

Lyndon Draper
Sports Coordinator

Evanston - Peaceful Kids

We have had a wonderful term learning mindfulness, meditation and positive psychology strategies to help lessen anxiety and big emotions. This term sees the conclusion of the Peaceful Kids Modified Program for all the Reception students at the Evanston Campus. As a team we decided to immerse all Reception students into the program and the benefits are showing. It warms my heart when I have conversations with the students about their emotions and how to calm them down. 'My Amygdala has gone off Mrs White, I need to breathe!' How awesome is it that a 5-year-old can articulate what is happening to their brain and body when their big emotions become overwhelming.

Next term Mrs Franca Hall, Mrs Elise Humphries and I will offer the Peaceful Kids Program to a number of students in Year 1 to Year 6. We are looking forward to continuing to facilitate Peaceful Kids and supporting our students with their Wellbeing.

Andrea White
Wellbeing Teacher

Evanston - Tasting the Regions of Italy

Over the past few weeks, the Year 5 and 6 students have been learning about Italy’s diverse regions through an exploration of their unique landmarks and culinary delights.

The Year 5 students engaged in learning based on a traditional Italian menu. A menu does more than just list food items; it tells a story, reflects traditions, and offers a cultural experience. Students immersed themselves in the Italian language by identifying the names of traditional dishes, regional references, cultural symbols, icons, and language associated with the dining experience. They then created their own menus reflecting traditional regional dishes.

In Year 6, students researched Italy’s most iconic landmarks, discovering the regional diversity and historical richness. This fostered a sense of curiosity and appreciation for cultural heritage, encouraging students to think critically and engage with history and language in a meaningful way. The project not only enhanced their knowledge of Italy but also developed their research, presentation, creativity, and collaboration skills.

To culminate this immersive experience, students were invited to taste the culinary delights from various Italian regions. The tasting was not just about enjoying delicious food; it allowed students to connect their newfound knowledge of Italian regions to their culinary experiences.

Buon appetito!

Diana Loprete
Italian Teacher

Congratulations Lilliana! Lilliana has been selected to play for NETA (North Eastern Tennis Association) in the TennisSA State League Competition over this coming winter season. Liliana is a proficient tennis player, and we wish the best of luck in her upcoming season.

Lyndon Draper
Sports Coordinator

Gawler Belt - Cross Country State Trials

Well done to William and Max who competed in the Cross Country State Trials, completing a 3km track.

Will came 3^rd with a time of 10:21 and Max finished with 12:29, competing against approximately 200 racers! Congratulations, boys!

Milos Banic
Sports Coordinator

Gawler Belt - Religious Education

As part of the Year 12 integrated learning curriculum, Year 12 students had the opportunity to raise awareness of Catholic charities helping those in need in our community. A group of Year 12 students cooked and donated food to Gawler Fred’s Van while others created care packages with clothing items, sanitary products, blankets and other necessities to St Vinnies, Catherine House, Centacare, Louise Place, Hutt St Centre, Catholic Deaf Association, Knights of the Southern Cross and Caritas. All the Catholic charities have expressed their appreciation and were overwhelmed by the level of generosity shown by our Year 12 students.

Over the course of Term 2, Year 7 students have become aware of the importance of prayer at the College and to the Catholic community. All students were given the opportunity to attend and participate in Mass in the College Chapel with Fr Chris.

Ms Kirsty Hatch
Religious Education Curriculum Leader

Gawler Belt - Junior Transport Excursion

In Week 9, a group of students from Gawler Belt and Two Wells participated in an excursion based around Transport. We met at the Gawler Train Station, then travelled by train and tram to Glenelg, where we had a great time playing on the playground and walking on the jetty. We then trammed it back to the City and had lunch in the Food Court. This was a great opportunity for students to build their confidence in ordering food independently, and handling money. We finally travelled back to Gawler by train and made our way back to each campus.

Jorja liked walking around, while Anastasia enjoyed hanging with friends. April liked getting to know people and buying food independently. Charlie liked going on the train and tram and going on the jetty. Mrs Applebee loved seeing the students making new friendships, and building on already existing friendships. Mrs Taylor was gobsmacked by the student’s confidence and resilience in new situations. Mrs Bakker was very impressed by the impeccable behaviour of all students.

Jo Bakker
Inclusive Education Coordinator

Gawler Belt - Knockout Sport

Girls Knockout Basketball
In Week 8, our Year 7-12 girls' team represented Xavier College Gawler Belt with incredible skill and determination, securing a commanding victory over Playford International College with a score of 65-4.

Our players demonstrated fantastic camaraderie and represented our school with tremendous pride. Their impressive performance has earned them a well-deserved spot in the finals. Congratulations to all the players.

Milos Banic
Sports Coordinator

Boys Knockout Basketball
The Xavier College knockout boys team delivered an impressive performance, clinching two victories in one day to advance to the next round of the Knockout tournament. In the first game against Modbury, Coehn led the charge, top-scoring with 24 points and setting a powerful pace. The momentum continued into the second game against Blackfriars, with Coehn also top-scoring with 19 points to contribute in a comfortable 40 point win.

A highlight of the day was the exciting moment when siblings Coehn and Braxton, along with Ben and Flynn, Riley and Mitchell, and Lachlan and Tyler took the court simultaneously, showcasing remarkable teamwork and family unity.

Miller demonstrated dominant play throughout both games, while Mitchell and Riley delivered crucial performances that enhanced the team's defense and offense. Xavier's twin victories are a showcase to the skill, strategy, and team spirit, setting high expectations for their next round in the tournament.

Emma Wiggins
House Director - Teaching and Learning

Knockout Netball
In Week 7, 11 girls from Years 8-10 were selected to represent Xavier College Gawler Belt in the Knockout Netball competition at Kadina. It was a highly successful day, marked by outstanding performances from the team.

Results:

Xavier GB vs Maitland: 24-21
Xavier GB vs Kadina: 26-20
Xavier GB vs Xavier TW: 25-6
Xavier GB vs Yorke Peninsula: 37-9

The team’s impressive performance has secured their progression to the next round of the competition. Congratulations to all the players for their hard work and dedication!

Kimberley Seelander
Teacher

Knockout Soccer
The Xavier College Knockout Soccer team travelled to Riverbanks College to compete in a Round Robin tournament against St Columba College and Riverbanks. The boys were super excited to play their first match and took an early lead against a strong St Columba side, courtesy of an absolute wonder-strike from long range from Peter. Xavier College were on top in the first half as Josh controlled the midfield, and they had more opportunities to extend their lead before the break, but were unable to capitalise. It proved to be a game of two halves as St Columba grew in confidence and found an equaliser with 10 minutes left to play. Xavier College could have snatched victory late on, as they sat deep, with Jordy looking dangerous on the counter, but they couldn’t find a winner, and the game finished 1-1. Special mention to goalkeeper Lachie and the back four: Josh, Hamish, Kruz and Brady who were organised and extremely disciplined throughout the game.

Xavier College’s second match was against Riverbanks College and the boys began strongly. They were on the front foot and created chance after chance, with captain, Tyran striking the woodwork from long range. It looked like it was going to be one of those days in front of goal, however, just before half time, young gun Leo broke the deadlock with a classy finish after using his pace to get in behind the opposition defence. It was soon 2-0 as Leo again proved too quick and strong, burying the goal and giving us a nice little buffer heading into half time. The dominance continued in the second half, and the points were secured right at the death as Tyran buried a spot kick to make it 3-0 after French import Paul-Emile went on a mazy run past four defenders and was cynically fouled in the box. Peter, Jackson, Joel, Blake, Jedi and Lachlan were all outstanding and worked tirelessly for the team.

Xavier College now proceed to the next round where they will take on St Paul’s College and Craigmore High School. Good luck boys!

David Savino
House Director - Pastoral Care

Gawler Belt - PARTY Program

The Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth (PARTY) program, delivered by SA Health onsite at Xavier College Gawler Belt, aims to reduce the incidence of trauma among young people due to alcohol and drug consumption. This educational initiative targets high school students, providing them with firsthand experience and knowledge about the consequences of risky behaviours.

The program includes a series of lectures that cover the mechanisms and outcomes of trauma incidents. These lectures are delivered by emergency professionals, including nurses, paramedics and SAPOL who share real-life stories to highlight the severe impact of alcohol and drug-related accidents.

The educational sessions aim to increase awareness and understanding of the potential life-altering consequences of such behaviours.

A key component of the PARTY program is the mock emergency motor accident scenario. Students act as emergency medical staff performing critical medical procedures carried out in the Emergency Department. This immersive experience is designed to be a powerful visual and emotional lesson on the realities of trauma and the importance of making safer choices.

By combining educational lectures with interactive simulations, the PARTY program effectively aims to foster safer behaviours and reduce youth trauma incidents.

Robert Polito
Assistant Head of Campus - Pastoral Care

Gawler Belt - Pedal Prix

The Xavier College Pedal Prix team achieved great success at Adelaide’s Victoria Park circuit in Week 7.

The team driving Bosco 1 earned 9^th position in the Senior Secondary division of 55 entrants. Racing in this category is incredibly competitive. To break through to the top ten is an amazing standard which demonstrates the team’s commitment to training for sustained physical exertion. Each of our five drivers pedalled flat out for over an hour to earn and hold their place and we are so proud of their effort. Congratulations Daan, Ethan, Eljah, Eamon and Owen.

Bosco 3 came home in 39^th position and we applaud the performance of Lachlan, Lincoln, Blake, Max, Zachary and Isobel. Most are first year racers and they showed courage and skill, taking to the track where high speed manoeuvres often lead to spectacular crashes. Rules also required that this vehicle competed in the Senior Secondary division for this race and the result is significant when noting that most riders are young enough to enter the division below.

Operational necessity saw the Bosco 2 team operating our oldest vehicle in this race and they fought hard to bring this across the line in 43^rd position out of 55 within Senior Secondary. A bizarre mechanical failure and later a blown tyre from a crash led to a significant amount of time spent off track, far from the pits and waiting for mechanical repair. Eli, Will, Oliver, Dean, Luca and Cameron demonstrated resilience and determination to press on despite the challenges to still finish the race in a respectable position.

As always we thank our parent volunteers without whom we could not race and we appreciate the support of the Xavier College Maintenance team for vehicles and equipment.

Rob Welsh
Library Technician

Gawler Belt - Resilience in Oratory

Over the past three weeks, Oratories have been involved in a school wide focus on resilience activities. They have reflected on times when they have seen and shown resilience and have written an example down and put it into their Oratory Resilience Jar. Certain teachers added their own challenging experience to the presentation, to share their own story of resilience. We also discussed well known people who have had setbacks on their journey and the concept of failing forward.

This evolved into students reflecting on where they were on the resilience scale and looking at practical ways that we can develop our resilience. They then added and wrote down one way that they could grow their resilience through the week ahead and added it to their Resilience Jar. Finally, we reflected on the people and strategies we called upon during challenging times and added gratitude responses to our Resilience Jar.

David Taylor
Teacher

Gawler Belt - University of Adelaide Agriculture Excursion

This week, a selection of Year 11 and 12 students had the opportunity to visit the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy campus to learn more about the range of animal and Veterinary Science courses they offer. Along with a short lecture, we were able to tour the facilities, pat some horses, and participate in activities that gave us a snapshot of the skills learnt through the various courses on offer.

Alyse Evans
Agriculture Coordinator

Two Wells - Head of Campus

I would like to thank everyone for a wonderful and action-packed term.

This term we transitioned our new Bambinos into Two Wells Campus life in preparation for their commencement in Reception in Term 3. We have taken up a variety of sporting opportunities and been involved in excursions, practicing for our Catholic Schools Music Festival, held House Masses, been witness to some incredible work through our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Coordinators, witnessed dynamic iTime Showcases, and of course, a lot of teaching, learning and play.

We have many things happening on site, with civil works occurring for the preparation of the next stage of building, and – forgive me for being cryptic - a wonderful surprise in the wings for our students in August and a new venture for our wider community. Watch this space!

Coming up in Term 3, our Year 9 students will undertake some significant opportunities with The Rite Journey program and we will hold an exciting Arts Showcase. I look forward to sharing news of these events with you throughout the term.

I would like to welcome our new staff for Term 3: Mr Ryan Humphrys, Ms Krichelle Parkes, and Ms Kate Van Schaik.

I would like to thank all our families for their continued partnership and support of the Two Wells Campus. I hope you are able to spend quality time together as a family – while managing to stay warm!

Janet Coomber
Head of Campus - Two Wells

Two Wells - Mid-Year Reception Liturgy

In Week 10, our Mid-Year Receptions gathered for their very first Liturgy, celebrating the end of their Xavier Bambinos transition sessions. Many thanks extend to our families who were in attendance to share this special milestone with our students who are prepared to commence their educational journey at our Two Wells Campus.

With blessings and prayers from Fr Chris and our Junior Oratory leaders, our Bambinos received their very own Xavier College candle to signify the hope that they will always have light to guide them through life's journey. Concluding with students singing This Little Light of Mine, our Xavier Bambinos departed in preparation to commence their Reception journey with Mrs Krichelle Parke and Miss Kate Van Schaik in Term 3, 2024.

Adele Taylor
Early Years Coordinator

Two Wells - Knockout Netball

In Week 7, 24 girls from Years 7, 8 and 9 travelled to the Copper Coast Sport and Community Centre in Kadina to participate in the state wide Knockout Netball Carnival. In the weeks leading up, the girls committed to weekly training sessions to build team cohesion and spirit. The first game started with nerves, however, over the course of the day, the training was evident as we came together and pushed teams from across the Yorke Peninsula. Unfortunately, both the Year 7/8 and Year 9 teams were unsuccessful in continuing to the next round, however, the girls played with courage and tenacity, giving it their all in every game. They exemplified RUAH, demonstrating respect for their peers, understanding and kindness towards their team mates and shared happy memories.

Nikki Williamson and Kim McDonald
Coaches

Two Wells - Northern Cluster Basketball Carnival

In Week 6, Year 5 and Year 6 students competed in the SACPSSA Northern Cluster Basketball Carnival, which was held at the Lights Community and Sports Centre in Lightsview. Both boys and girls teams competed against students from a range of Catholic schools in matches throughout the day. Students were also able to compete in a three-point contest during intermission. All students should be really proud of their efforts as they competed well and were able to have numerous wins across the day. I commend our students on their commitment to trial for the teams, participate in trainings and then compete in many games. I would also like to thank Mrs Marrone for her contribution as a coach and our Year 9 students who supported us on the day as score keepers and umpires.

Kas Pillay
Teacher