FROM THE PRINCIPAL
As we approach what is referred to as ‘the silly season’, we are often faced with the idea of trying to catch up with family members and friends that we don’t normally see. It seems to be human nature that we feel the need to make the busiest time of the year even more exhausting.
The School is running all of their culminating events, you get late notices that your son/daughter needs a costume, your workplace wants an end-of-year function, and even your neighbours want you to attend a street party….and then, there is the family!
I would like to challenge you to slow down your pace of life and triage these events to ensure you do not get to the festive season with no energy left to celebrate with those that you love the most.
Embrace the richness of the School events, leave the work party early, excuse yourself from commitments that place undue pressure on your schedule, and find time for recreation and yourself.
The best parent you can be over the next few months is one who cherishes the time with your children, returns to simple activities that cost little and force eyes away from screens. It will be tiring to get outside, pack picnics, walk to the park whilst the kids play for hours, and take the dog to the beach, but your head will hit the pillow more content each night.
This time with your children is fleeting, so embrace all that comes with it, because you will soon find out that they will flee the nest, you will miss being a taxi, you will lose connections that were not authentic, and life will have passed you by. You will not get back that time. Soon, they will be taller than you!
My message as we approach the end-of-year Awards evenings to culminate our School year is simple. Relax as best you can as you face the chaos ahead. Celebrate the successes of your children, and applaud the joy of others in our community who excel. You can be happy for their families this year, and they can then reciprocate when your child enjoys success in the coming years. We celebrate the success of all and should be prepared to give up a little of our time to enjoy collectively these moments.
Mr Adrian Pree | Principal
FROM THE VICE PRINCIPAL
I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the St James’ community for their positive messages on my recent appointment as Vice Principal.
Our Strategic Plan states our purpose as ‘providing excellence in education, inspiring high standards of achievement and the development of individual potential in a dynamic, caring and Christian environment’. I am so excited to work with a team of staff, students and the wider community that all share this goal.
There are so many amazing things that happen every day, driven by the energy and enthusiasm of the people involved, and I look forward to supporting the School in continuing and developing these opportunities and initiatives.
I am excited to step into this new role that will support St James’ as we continue to embrace the philosophy of ‘business as usual….but better’.
Mrs Laura Briggs | Vice Principal
FROM THE CHAPLAIN
Endings and New Beginnings - Life Consists of Rites of Passage
As we are well into the final term of the school year, we find ourselves on the cusp of entering Advent, that time of expectant waiting before the Christ child is born which signals the great festival that is Christmas. It is a time of endings and preparation for new beginnings.
In our School, we waved a fond farewell to the Graduating Class of 2022, as they completed their schooling and embark on that next stage in their lives.
Other endings which lead to new beginnings have included:
- Year 2s preparing to end their time as students in the ELC and will become Junior School students in the new year.
- The Year 5s recently delivered speeches so that they be considered for leadership roles in the Junior School as they head into Year 6 next year.
- The Year 6s this year are preparing to say goodbye to their junior schooling and commence a new learning journey in the Senior School as Year 7s.
- The Year 11s held elections for the School Captains as they take on leadership roles as Senior School students in their final year of school in 2023.
May they be blessed as they continue to journey through childhood into teenagers and young adults, growing in wisdom and understanding.
Isaiah 11:1-2
A shoot shall come out from the stock of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
Reverend Marie Aitken | School Chaplain
FROM THE HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
When we think of school, our mind is often drawn to the classrooms. This is ground zero for learning. Chairs, desks, whiteboards and interactive technologies form the physical structures. Engaging tasks, collaboration and experimentation are some of the processes facilitating learning.
Last Friday during House Time, this image of a regular school environment couldn’t have been further from reality.
Some students had just returned from a week of Outdoor Education and were busily washing their Trangia, repacking tents and unloading trailers. They had had an amazing experience and were quick to tell me of their favourite parts – hiking, caving, abseiling, indigenous experiences and more.
In moving around the campus, the next group of students were involved in a ‘Dance Off’. This was a House driven challenge, where students were given a 30-second component of a song to perform. The components were then assembled and performed ‘in sync’ to create a music video. Creativity, flair and teamwork were on show here. Everyone was involved!
The next stop was a presentation from Zero2Hero. This focuses on Mental Health. The aim here is to educate, empower and engage our young people to recognise mental health as a part of everyday life. Mental Health needs to be discussed with openness and authenticity.
My thanks go to the teachers who allow these experiences to occur and to the students who willingly embrace these challenges. Together, we are achieving great things!
Mr Chris Hall | Head of Senior School
FROM THE DEPUTY HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
Are You Courteous?
If you are courteous, you are polite. You have good manners and you show respect towards others. People who are courteous are patient. They consider others, not just themselves. In Christian and Values Education, students have been learning about courtesy, how to practise it and why. When we are courteous, we show we care and we model how we expect to be treated.
Our late Queen Elizabeth II was indeed very courteous. She gave her life to serving others and conducted herself in the most gracious way. As a Christian, she committed herself to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus was kind, non-judgemental, forgiving and courteous. This was seen when he spoke to the masses, in his miracles and in the parables he told.
“Please,” “Thank you,” “Excuse me,” and “May I” are not just words. They are courteous expressions which let people know you appreciate them. As well as learning to use these words often, in lessons, students have been learning to be courteous by:
- Opening doors for people.
- Not interrupting someone while they are speaking. This tells them that what they are saying is just as important as what you have to say.
- Allowing others to go in front of you.
- Waiting for your turn.
- Speaking with a gentle tone of voice.
- Smiling.
- Always use words such as “please” and “thank you” even when you are not in a good mood.
In class, students participated in role plays, said and wrote courtesy affirmations and sang songs. The Pre-Primary students absolutely loved their song reminding them to say “please” and “thank you”.
Parents and guardians are reminded that our lesson on courtesy is also for them. Always be kind and polite when interacting with St James’ staff, including when communicating via email. Use salutations such as “Dear” followed by the teacher’s name. During special events such as assemblies, keep small children close to you so everyone can enjoy the performances. Interact positively when onsite with educators, admin staff and other parents.
Reverend John Taylor often talks about the Golden Rule: Do onto others as you would have them do unto you.” In other words, Treat other people with the concern and kindness you would like them to show toward you. Practice this rule daily!
Mr Nicholas Townsend | Deputy Head of Junior School
FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE PARENTS AND FRIENDS
What a fantastic year we have had.
From a P & F perspective, we have been able to run the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls as well as tick off many of the wish list items that the students have been able to enjoy for most of the year.
In the background, our Parents and Friends committee have been busy organising next year's Family Fun Day. I ask you all to please block off your calendars for Saturday 25 March as the committee has been able to secure even more rides, food trucks and activities for the whole family.
A ticket launch morning tea will be held again in the New Year. With the Fun Day taking place at the start of the year it’s a great way to meet new families at St James’ all whilst enjoying a hot chocolate and a treat.
2023 brings some exciting events and opportunities for the St James’ community to come together. We look forward to inviting you to these events and as always would love to see new faces join the committee.
Mrs Sonet Coetzee | President of the P&F
Year 5 Bike Education
In Term 4, the students in Year 5 have been emersed in a five-week bike safety unit where they learn how to operate as safe riders. Schools have a vital role in promoting cycling safety. Through the program, students will develop the skills and confidence at an age where they are likely to be engaging in independent travel to and from school. Research has shown that children who ride or walk to school are more likely to arrive at school more alert and ready to learn, resulting in the achievement of higher academic results.
Students have learnt how to do their ABC (Air, Brakes and Chain) check and helmet check before riding. They have been practising on a variety of surfaces such as pavement, grass, and gravel. With the Djerabin Boodja track open this year, the students have had ample opportunity to practice changing their gears as they navigate inclines, descents and bends.
As their confidence and skills have developed, students have progressed to identify and develop strategies to recognise and safely avoid hazards when riding.
The students ventured off-campus to the beach, finishing with a BBQ at the Escarpment Park. This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to spend time together as a cohort, putting their skills into a real-world environment.
The skills taught during this lesson are designed to effectively prepare our students for their Year 6 Camp at Rottnest where their main form of transport is on two wheels. It has been wonderful to see our students persevere with their riding skills.
Miss Mackenzie Huggins | Sports Coordinator
Junior School Jump Off Day
On Tuesday 8 November, the ELC kicked off the Jump Rope for Heart Day. Due to the rescheduled camps, the Junior School continued their Jump Off Day through to Friday so all year groups could participate and show off all their hard work and practice.
This Jump Rope for Heart Program assists students in hitting their weekly exercise goals, helping to protect their own hearts and raising money towards the prevention of heart disease in Australians.
The students were asked to fundraise for their skipping, with all donations going to the Heart Foundation. Our wonderful School Community raised over $4,687.
After practising at home and school, students spent 40-minutes demonstrating their skipping skills in the Djinda Sports Centre. It was fantastic to see students from the ELC and Junior School show their amazing skipping skills, with parents and teachers competing and supporting them. It was a great week in the Junior School, supporting our own health goals and those with heart disease.
Mrs Candice Geracitano | ELC PE Teacher
Jump Rope for Heart Photo Gallery
Pre-Primary is Going to the Circus!
The Pre-Primary students have been busy learning new skills with ‘Joe Bolton and the Suitcase Circus’ this term.
Juggling, plate spinning, flower sticks and rings as well as walking on stilts and hula hoops are just some of the exciting new skills the Pre-Primary's will have learnt after their five-week circus lessons.
While learning these amazing new skills, the students further develop their ability to play cooperatively, improving their perseverance and resilience. Students also work to improve their hand-eye coordination, midline cross-over movements and balance, in a fun and inviting environment.
The most exciting part is the Pre-Primary students will be putting on a 'Big Show' performance for parents and friends to show off all the amazing new skills they have learnt.
Pre-Primary families, be sure to mark the calendar, Friday 2 December!
Mrs Denise Stone and Mrs Jodie McQueen | Pre-Primary Teachers
NIPSSA ATHLETICS CARNIVAL SUCCESS
On Thursday 26 October, our Year 3 - 6 students NIPSSA Athletics team ventured to the new venue at Kingsway Little Athletics Centre for the 2022 carnival.
Our Year 6 cohort has consistently demonstrated excellent leadership throughout their NIPSSA year, and we were privileged with a top-quality cohort to support our younger students. Their attendance, training and support towards developing the younger athletes have been a highlight for the staff to watch. The team was led excellently on the day by our captains Isabella T and Cooper S.
As always, our St James’ students are always up for a challenge. A significant number of students stepped up to fill the shoes of team members who unfortunately couldn’t make it on the day. The courage and bravery taken to do this did not go unnoticed.
When the students were asked, here are a few of their favourite parts of the day
- Cheering on their friends.
- St James’ performance across all relays.
- Teamwork and support from the bigger students.
- Sharing nerves and working through them.
Carnival days truly are a highlight of many students' schooling. It is a privilege to be part of this journey. St James’ finished 5th this year out of nine schools.
Thank you to the staff, senior students, coaches and parents who assisted in the lead-up to the day and at the carnival. We are very proud of all the athletes and look forward to 2023.
Miss Mackenzie Huggins | Sports Coordinator
Philosothon Success
Philosophers from each year group stormed the University of Western Australia on the evening of Tuesday 20 September for the Annual Philosothon.
Tyson B, Nirronto P, Mason H, Sasha G and Isaac H, trained throughout Term 3 in preparation for the main event.
Competing in four rounds of lively discussions, these students questioned and argued their way through topics such as, 'What is a hole?' and 'Should we welcome our cyborg futures?'
These students demonstrated remarkable sophistication of thought and collaboration with the twenty other participating schools. Participating in this prestigious event warrants a hearty commendation.
Well done, everyone!
Miss Hannah Killow | HASS Teacher
Future Physicists in the Making
In Week 4 this term, the Year 8s went on an excursion to SciTech to supplement their studies in Physical Sciences.
Our Year 8 students engaged in a variety of workshops. The first was a ‘Build a Wind Turbine’ challenge which encouraged students to use their knowledge of energy transformations to create an efficient structure which could generate electricity.
The second session of the day was a fantastic show about the power of heat and cold; a topic that students had been familiarised within their studies about energy and the particle model.
In the third session students lived the day in the life of an astronaut, an occupation only made possible through the study of Physical Sciences.
The students ended the day with free time to engage with the rest of the exhibits available at SciTech.
The Year 8s were challenged and inspired by the activities of the day. It was fantastic to see all the budding physicists in their element!
Miss Katrina Keegan | Science Teacher
St James’ Takes on Eastern States Schools in the illuminate Challenge
The illuminate challenge is a week-long intensive program that allows high school students to experience first-hand what it takes to lead change and solve relevant problems in their community in an innovative manner.
Facilitated by experienced staff with the support of industry and community, students learn more about the issue to produce a solution to it, making sure it connects with customers and is viable. Even pitching for support to get it running at the end of the program.
The Year 9 Global Citizens students will be taking part in the challenge on Monday 28 November, arriving at school at 6.15am ready to compete against eastern states schools over five hours.
We know that our world needs more problem solvers to address our local challenges, and our young people are ready for this. Every program they deliver helps build their skills and capacity to shape the world around them.
Mr Thomas, Ms Yates and Mr McLatchie will be supervising these wonderful students during this week and look forward to the amazing work that will be produced.
We wish the Year 9 Global Citizens class the best of luck with the challenge, and we know they will do the Orange Army proud.
Mr Daniel Thomas | Head of Careers and VET
Passion Projects
Leading the Way in Electric Vehicles
2022, has seen the implementation of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Motorsports Passion Project. The goal is to implement Electric Vehicles into our Motorsports Program in Design and Technology.
This Passion Project will teach the students about sustainability, engineering and creating sophisticated solutions to modern problems.
2022, is year one of our three-year program to implement EV technologies at St James’. This year the students have been fixing two Go-Karts with standard combustion engines. They have repaired the karts from a non-running state to a functional kart.
The budding engineers have learnt how to service single-cylinder engines, how to refit disc brakes and the basic platform of the Go-Kart, in preparation for next year.
2023, will see the implementation of a third Go-Kart. The students will attach an electric engine to the kart, which will allow them to compare the combustion kart with its electric counterpart, assessing reliability, sustainability, and performance.
We look forward to updating you on our progress during 2023 and beyond.
Mr Nathaniel Watts and Mr Peter Kennedy | EV Motorsports Passion Project Leaders
