Loading

The Mainsail Issue 3 | Term 2 - Monday 30 May 2022

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

The masks are off, the activities are slowly returning and we are finally being greeted with a smile that we can see! We are looking forward to the second half of the year being more like what we may refer to as ‘the new normal’.

The landscape ahead looks promising, but there are still a few speed bumps to negotiate. Students and staff are being affected by COVID and this is having an impact on teaching and the coordination of assessments. Please work closely with us to ensure the students face these challenges with the support they need. Be mindful that staff are also dealing with their own home situations that may be affected by COVID and trying to balance their work at school.

Excursions, sports, camps, and social events have all recommenced. The relaxation of mandated restrictions has been a breath of fresh air for some, but a little worrying for others. I still feel mask-wearing is appropriate in many aspects of our community that are not mandated, and I ask that you continually remind your children to always have access to a mask. The richness that has returned through sports, our club's program, music, the School Production and community events is very encouraging.

As we approach the Year 11 and 12 exams, it is important to consider that these students will need to show great resilience to push through the obstacles they face around the pandemic. Please join me in helping to find ways to support these students, even if only in your prayers. They certainly have been faced with a different view of the last years of their school life.

In an effort to try and improve our processes, parents may notice an increase in the SEQTA notifications that you receive. This slight adjustment is designed to try and give more personal positive and corrective communication to our parents. This is to ensure that we are all working closely together to encourage student success and react quickly or work proactively before problems become major. I ask that you approach this adjustment with an open mind as we try and find the right balance between ‘too much’ and ‘not enough’.

I sincerely look forward to seeing you around the campus and saying hello. It will be great to have the parent interaction that is woven into the fabric of St James’.

Mr Adrian Pree | Principal

FROM THE CHAPLAIN

The start of this term has reminded me how the actions of one person not only effect but affect another’s life. It is important to remember that it is not about the age or gender of the person or persons that have that sort of influence. We only have to look at history for proof of that.

At the start of this term, we celebrated ANZAC Day. The word ‘celebrated’ is not really the right word, as we do not rejoice in the death of someone. What we do is celebrate their memory. Australia is built on the memory of those who were prepared to die so that we might be free and safe. This happened and continues to happen to the present day in different conflicts.

It is only when someone we were close to or knew in some way, dies that we realise our own mortality. This for me is why faith in Jesus Christ, helps us to cope and in some respect deal with that expected or more painfully the unexpected death. It is what is being said in

Psalm 34:18 “The Lord is close to the broken-hearted and saves those who are crushed in the spirit.”

The pain and upset can be too hard to handle, that is why we need the comfort and support of those around us. This then gives us the ability to laugh, cry, talk and be silent together as we remember and celebrate how that person has touched our lives.

The memories will then lead to the joy and laughter that is needed and wanted by all involved. We start to learn more not only about others but also about ourselves. That is why it is important to share our lives in different ways and at different levels with those around us. Too often someone can feel lost and alone unable to cope with what is happening to either themselves or the things around them. It is up to each other, that is you and me, to provide the support and encouragement that may not only be sometimes wanted but more importantly, needed.

So, as we continue our journey through this term with those who are close, those we know only slightly. Along with family, friends and teachers, do not travel alone and do not try coping alone. Know that someone is only a smile and greeting away.

Reverend John Taylor | School Chaplain

FROM THE HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL

I am always amazed at the variety of activities and opportunities our staff provide for students in their classrooms. As educators, we understand that we compete with so many exciting distractions as we deliver our lessons.

The craft of teaching is to find a ‘hook’ that draws students in. That engages students and leaves them wanting to know more, do more, and pursue a learning opportunity.

We create and then look to maintain a ‘teachable moment’.

The staff at St James’ are more than just experts in their field. They are experts in their craft. Most importantly, it is the craft that we continue to work on through professional development, collegiality and cross-curricular projects.

The culture of learning also includes the staff of St James’, not just the students.

Mr Chris Hall | Head of Senior School

FROM THE HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Since the start of term, it has been wonderful to be able to re-engage with people from across our community face to face.

Across the Junior School, there has been a positive start to Term 2. At the end of Week 1, it was wonderful to have so many parents, friends and family come and join us as the students took part in the annual Interhouse Cross Country. We were blessed with glorious weather and perfect conditions for running. The smiles on everyone’s faces were refreshing to see.

The following week the ELC invited their mums in for a Mother’s Day Walk. It was great to see families walking and talking as they gathered their treats from the various stations around the School. The students enjoyed spending time at school with their mums.

These events will continue when we resume our class assemblies later this term with parents and families able to attend in person to watch their son/daughter. This will bring the atmosphere that is hard to replicate when performing to a camera. I know the children will enjoy this engagement, showcasing their talents to their families.

These events and many more are great at bringing the community together. We also aim across the Junior School to connect with the wider community. Each year group aims to give back to the community. Some do it by helping to pick up litter within the School grounds, others by helping do a beach clean, whilst some are planning to help with regeneration projects.

We recently secured a grant to further develop the outside classroom space. This will see the addition of a pathway that the students can use to ride their bikes on. We will also establish a bush tucker garden and continue to develop the vegetable garden (many thanks to the work of the parents who so kindly donate their time to support this). Yanchep Community Men’s Shed has also offered to help set up some signage around the outside classroom and vegetable garden.

We look forward to continuing to work together as a community as we help our children achieve their potential.

Mr Dan Mornement | Head of Junior School

FOST (Friends of St James')

I hope that everyone had an enjoyable holiday break.

The Friends of St James’ were proud to again support the Mother’s Day Stall this year. I would especially like to thank Laura Pritchard, Nina Dorieux, Helen Riley, Amanda Buckland, Michelle Schofield, Nuala McNally and her mum, Loren Rose, as well as all the Class Representatives for working so hard to pull together all the items that were available to purchase at the stall.

Without their support and work behind the scenes, the stall would not have been able to go ahead. It is always a highlight to see the looks on the children’s faces when they choose what they think to be the perfect gift for their mum. It is truly priceless.

In addition to this, the Friends of St James’ have been busy checking items off the staff wishlist. So far this year we have been able to provide the ELC with additional toys and equipment for the Year 1 and Year 2 sandpits. The imaginative play at recess and lunchtime has been heart-warming to see. We look forward to updating you with other items as the year progresses.

If you would like to find out more about the Friends of St James’ or if you would like to help throughout the year, we would love to have you on board. Please email me at friendsofstjames@stjames.wa.edu.au It is with the help and support of our St James’ families that events like the Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls can take place.

I hope that everyone takes care and stays safe for the remainder of the term and look forward to welcoming new Friends of St James’ committee members along the way.

Mrs Sonet Coetzee | FOST President

ANZAC Day

Anzac Day is a day that all Australian and New Zealand people prepare for. It is something that we keep very close to our hearts. On the twenty-fifth day of April each year, we remember those who fought for us.

Everyone has their way of remembering the soldiers, whether it is to attend a Dawn Service, make ANZAC biscuits or even just spend time with loved ones.

Since coming to Australia, ANZAC day has always been a special day. I remember being with the cub scouts back in 2013 and being a part of the Quinns Rocks RSL ANZAC Service. Since then, I can’t remember not being a part of ANZAC services.

Throughout my career playing the trumpet, I have been given multiple opportunities to perform at ANZAC services. The main piece a trumpeter has to practise during the lead up to ANZAC Day is the ‘Last Post’. To me, learning the ‘Last Post’ gives a perfect example of how hard it was for those soldiers to fight for our country. It is not an easy piece and it takes a lot of practise to play it well. Something that I haven’t mastered even after playing it so much.

I remember not knowing a lot about the ANZACs when I first came to Australia. It wasn’t until the second ANZAC day I was here that I finally found out how important ANZAC day is to both Australians and New Zealanders. Being able to perform at the ANZAC service is something I will be forever proud of, it has allowed me to meet and make so many friends along the way and I will be forever grateful for that.

ANZAC Day is not the only day that we need to respect these brave soldiers for protecting us. We should always be respecting those who have fought for us. Whilst playing at these services, I love to acknowledge and thank those who have fought for us but also those who lost loved ones. ANZAC Day will be forever in my heart.

We will remember them. Lest we forget.

Isaac F | Year 11 Student

Year 7 Assembly

The Year 7 cohort held an assembly on Thursday 5 May to congratulate their Student Council Representatives – Charlie H and Bradley M.

The boys were presented with their badges and received certificates as an official start to their roles for 2022.

When asked why they wanted to be Student Councillors, they said they knew their peers well and wanted to offer their service to the year group. Our Year 7s were lucky to have ten students nominate for these positions, with all students delivering strong speeches.

After the Year 7s voted, Charlie and Bradley were excited about being elected and the opportunities to come with these leadership roles at St James’.

During the assembly, the students who achieved their Hiragana Black Belt, highlighting commitment and dedication to learning the Hiragana alphabet, were acknowledged.

Special thanks to Tyson B for an outstanding performance of ‘Zombies’ by The Cranberries. Tyson played the piano and sang, showcasing his incredible talent. He has been learning the piano and singing since he was six years old. We look forward to seeing Tyson take on a lead role in our upcoming school musical ‘Into the Woods’.

Mrs Stacey Syme | Mathematics Teacher | Head of Year 7 Staff Operations / Service-Learning Coordinator

Year 8 Design and Technology

Students have been researching, designing and producing their very own CO2 Dragster race car. Admittedly this is a 1:30 ratio replica of the real thing, but the thrill of racing these is just the same.

These cars will hit a speed close to 100kms, and the noise as they leave the start line is outstanding.

The Year 8s are excited to put their creations to the test in the coming weeks. The winner will have their dragster join that of Kean C in the Trade Centre display cabinet for future classes to draw inspiration from and have bragging rights for years to come.

Mr Chris Hall | Head of Senior School

Why I Teach Art

At the end of Term 1, I wanted to share a little video of my Year 8 Art class, as I was blown away by the sheer dedication and efforts of the students.

In Art, it’s a roller coaster of emotions, from ‘I can’t do it,’ ‘can I start again’, ‘I’ve finished’ to

‘It’s looking good’, ‘I like it’, ‘Can I do more’ and ‘I’m pleased’.

It’s not just about their fantastic art skills that make me enjoy what I teach, it's when I showcase their work at the end of the lesson. Their reactions are priceless.

Faces light up, smiles and even congratulations for each other's work and the communal ‘wow we did this’.

That is why I teach Art!

Ms Anna Fletcher | Head of Art

Year 7 ACC Super Series Basketball

After a term of weekly training sessions in lieu of the normal CAS season, our boys and girls Year 7 Basketball Teams competed in the ACC Year 7 Super Series held at Warwick Stadium and Bendat Stadium at the start of Term 2.

This competition format generally offers a challenge to high performing teams and our students worked through this challenge with excitement and resilience. The boys built to a final game victory after some excellent learning experiences and our girls finished the day with three wins and three losses with two wins by a solitary point.

It was fantastic to be competing against other schools again and the joy on display from our students was easy to see. We have some talented basketballers in our Year 7 cohort, and not only did they display this on the court but their ability to lift our less experienced players was exceptional and truly embodied the spirit of the Orange Army.

Miss Mackenzie Huggins | Sports Coordinator

Boys' Team: Ethan E, Yousiff M, Liam S, Ethan B, Makua P, Utawaka M, Zane O, Colton K, Charlie H, Riley T, Pace N, Benjamin J. Coach: Mr Ryan Marlow

Girls' Team: Makenna M, Esme S, Millie C, Bailey-Rae C, Alize S, Megan S, Jaycie B, Madison E, Aylah M. Coach: Mr James Parsons

Interhouse Cross Country Carnival

In the first week of Term 2, the Kindy to Year 12 Interhouse Cross Country was held in beautiful conditions at St James’. Years 2-12 completed a challenging course of varying distances while our Kindy, Pre-Primary and Year 1 students completed a participation-based carnival on the Junior School Oval.

As always, the level of effort and participation was outstanding and full credit must go to the students for their willingness to push themselves to achieve their personal best. This year students were able to see their time displayed on the electronic scoreboard as they crossed the finish line, much to their delight.

Year 2 Champions

  • Ivy S
  • Hendrix H

Year 2 Runners Up

  • Jorja R
  • Hayden B

Year 3 Champions

  • Kayla T
  • Harrison S

Year 3 Runners Up

  • Frandesca T
  • Jackson W

Year 4 Champions

  • Isabelle H
  • Henry W

Year 4 Runners Up

  • Evelyn B
  • Corey M

Year 5 Champions

  • Sienna T
  • Alex K

Year 5 Runners Up

  • Heyden M
  • Ryder D

Year 6 Champions

  • Harmony P
  • Freddie S

Year 6 Runners Up

  • Tahlee H
  • Cooper S

Year 7 Champions

  • Makenna M and Millie C
  • Saul M

Year 7 Runners Up

  • Jeremy S

Year 8 Champions

  • Kayla C
  • Barnaby L

Year 8 Runners Up

  • Keeley S
  • Harry S

Year 9 Champions

  • Arieli G
  • George H

Year 9 Runners Up

  • Harrison W
  • Ciann A

Year 10 Champions

  • Hayley B
  • Francis M

Year 10 Runners Up

  • Sasha G
  • Liam R

Year 11 Champions

  • Zahra M
  • Gareth M

Year 11 Runners Up

  • Tongxin S
  • Jayden B

Year 12 Champions

  • Carys D
  • Joey M

Year 12 Runners Up

  • Elissa Q
  • Lachlan T

Congratulations to our award winners.

The overall House points were as follows:

  1. Eglinton 4723
  2. Cervantes 4704
  3. Sydney 4151
  4. Twilight 3974

A fantastic effort from Eglinton to come out on top in a closely fought carnival.

Mr James Parsons | Head of Physical Education

Mother's Day

On Friday 6 May, the ELC teachers and students acknowledged and celebrated the wonderful mums in the St James’ community.

This year the ELC teaching staff changed things up and headed out for a walk with our families. The weather was perfect and set the most amazing backdrop for a relaxing stroll around our wonderful school grounds.

The mums were welcomed with a decorative walk into the ELC grounds where they met up at their child’s classroom. Upon arrival, they were greeted with a little package containing a map, handmade card, gift and flower.

Everyone followed the map visiting ten stations. At each station, the mums collected a letter (the ten letters spelt “Mother's Day”) and a small gift. These token gifts were explained in their small bags. At the end of the walk, the final gift was a hug and a kiss from their children.

Throughout the morning, there was lots of chatting, laughing and smiles. It could not have been a more perfect way to celebrate the important people in our lives.

We hope all our mums and mother figures had a lovely Mother’s Day with family and friends. We thank you for the ongoing support you provide on a daily basis.

As the saying goes, ‘To the world you are my mum, but to me, you are my world’.

Mrs Edell Robertson | Year 2 Teacher | ELC Co-Ordinator

Student Spotlight Shaun Tan Award for Young Artists 2022

The Art Department has proudly selected two Year 9 students to represent St James’ in the Shaun Tan Art Exhibition this year for their amazing talents.

The theme of this year’s competition is ‘creativity and imagination’- which both students executed by exploring and experimenting with their chosen mediums.

We wish both Izabela H and Danica V all the best in this competition.

Ms Anna Fletcher | Head of Art

L: Artwork by Danica | R: Artwork by Izabela

Year 1 At One With Nature

What an amazing day our Year 1s had at Naturescape, Kings Park, on Friday 20 May. They climbed the ‘python’, peering out over the treetops to look for birds and their nests. They also built cubbies from scratch using branches supplied and waded in the waterhole. The water gushed down the rocks, the pebbles were smooth under their feet and they were challenged to keep their balance as they crossed a large Jarrah log.

The students were amazed by the strange-looking upside down trees with their roots in the air, and they swung like Ninjas from a big web of climbing ropes in amongst the shady Rottnest Island Pines. They delighted in disappearing down a burrow and explored cool tunnels and wet their toes in the Paperbark creek. They hid in a dingo den and looked for tadpoles and native fish in the Billabong.

At the end of the day they had fun being habitat detectives, searching high and low for clues of what creatures live at Kings park. Such a rich, fun-filled learning experience! A BIG thank you to our parent helpers for being part of our special day – we could not have done without you!

Mrs Suzy Flight | Year 1 Teacher

Staff Spotlight

Grounds and Maintenance

The staff and students at St James' bring with them a variety of unique skills and talents that aren't always shared with the wider community.

At the start of Term 2, the little red buggy that is used by the Grounds and Maintenance team daily broke down, just shy of 5,000km in three years.

With the mechanics not available for over five weeks, Campbell, with the help of Geoff, using his knowledge of motorbikes, were both able to install two new CV clutches, a new chain, new throttle and a temperature sensor. No need for a mechanic after all, as the grounds and maintenance team used their skills to come together and repair the trusty red buggy.

Thank you to Campbell and Geoff for going above and beyond to find a solution to your problem.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with what is happening at St James' through our various communication channels.