20 February 2025

At last week’s academic assembly, we had the privilege of celebrating the outstanding achievements of the class of 2024. I posed two key questions to the students: Why do you learn what you learn? and What is the purpose of a school?

I explained that it begins with the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Declaration for Education, which focuses on developing active, informed citizens and confident, creative individuals. This framework underpins the Australian Curriculum and the South Australian Certificate of Education, outlining the key capabilities that students should develop.

Our skilled teachers then take these curriculum outlines and shape learning experiences through expert pedagogies, tailored to their individual teaching styles and the needs of their students.

I also unpacked what it means to be an active and informed citizen, emphasising that critical thinking involves understanding right from wrong and being able to assess information thoughtfully. I reminded students that, given the recent media attention our school has received, it’s crucial to think critically and understand that the media often presents only one side of the story.

What matters most, I emphasised, is our internal knowledge of who we are. We are a strong, supportive, and inclusive community that not only delivers excellent academic outcomes but also teaches morals and values and supports personal growth. The class of 2024 exemplifies this, and they are ready to make a positive impact in their local community and beyond.

In closing, I encouraged students to take pride in their history, in who we are, and in wearing the St Paul’s crest. Be proud of our legacy and excited for the one you will create.

Certa Bonum Certamen – Let’s continue to fight the good fight, together.

Patrick Harmer - Principal

Meet the Home Group Teacher Evening

On Tuesday 11 February we welcomed all Year 7 to 12 families to the Meet the Home Group Teacher Evening. It was fantastic to see so many families in attendance to meet or re-connect with their child’s Home Group Teacher and fostering our commitment to the 3-way partnership between staff, students, and families. A reminder that your child’s Home Group Teacher is the first port of call for any pastoral matters, as we work together in partnership to support your child’s holistic success throughout their educational journey at St Paul’s College.

Class of 2024 Academic Assembly

Last Friday also saw us welcome back the Class of 2024 to celebrate their graduating achievements. The celebration included a keynote speech from 2009 Old Scholar Mr Matt Cocca, who is now the Chair of the School Advisory Council and the General Manager of Commercial, for a leading profit-for-purpose provider of aged care, retirement and home services.

The assembly also acknowledged students who successfully gained an apprenticeship at the end of last year, while also recognising Subject Duces, our highest ATAR achievers, SACE Merit Certificate recipients, and University High Distinction Award winners. In addition, 2024 College Dux William McCulloch addressed the community with some inspiration words, thanking his teachers while also reminding our current Year 7 to 12 students of the importance of taking every opportunity and building great memories and friendships throughout their St Paul’s journey.

As we approach the midway point of Term 1, I encourage students to build on the positive start that they have made this year, applying themselves as best as possible, asking questions, completing set work, and actively engaging in their learning. This will not only enable them to maximize their potential but also achieve their personal best as they strive for excellence.

School Shoes

At the start of Term 3, 2024, all students and families were advised of our updated uniform policy to take effect at the start of 2025.

A key change in the updated policy is that all students are expected to wear black leather lace-up shoes (business style – refer to image) with both the winter and summer uniform. Black leather sneakers are no longer permitted as part of the school uniform.

For more specific information regarding uniform and grooming expectations, the St Paul’s Uniform and personal presentation Policy can be found here. 

Mobile Phone Policy

As per the Student Mobile Phone Policy, a reminder that mobile devices should not be visible in class and that mobile devices should be locked in assigned student lockers. Should a student fail to meet this expectation, staff will confiscate the student’s mobile device, to be securely locked at Student Services.

To support the college, we ask that any parent/student contact during school hours occur via Student Services and not via parent/student mobile phones. 

The full Student Mobile Device Policy can be found here. 

Dear Families,

Over the past week, we have had the privilege of welcoming prospective families to our college for two Primary Years school tours; one held after school and the other during school hours. These tours provided a wonderful opportunity to showcase our deep commitment to student wellbeing, the diversity of our community, and our evidence-based teaching and learning approaches. We are immensely proud to share how we nurture every child’s growth and support success across Reception to Year 6.

During these tours, families had the chance to hear about or see first-hand how we implement these approaches in each stage of Primary learning. Our Early Years program (Reception - Year 2) builds strong foundational skills, while Middle Primary (Years 3 & 4) strengthens independence and deepens learning. In Upper Primary (Years 5 & 6), students refine their critical thinking and leadership skills, preparing them for the next phase of their educational journey. These structured approaches ensure that every child is supported, engaged and thriving.

At the heart of the Primary Years are our exceptional Teaching Teams and Specialist Teachers, who work collaboratively to ensure that every student reaches their potential. Excellence is not just measured in academics but in all facets of a student’s school experience. From fostering resilience in the classroom to supporting students in their passions in all aspects of their learning, our teachers and Co-educators are dedicated to student success.

We see excellence in the way students challenge themselves in problem-solving tasks, collaborate with their peers in inquiry-based learning, and demonstrate kindness and empathy in their daily interactions. It is in these moments that we see our core values brought to life, reflecting our identity as a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition.

Our college is more than its buildings and programs; it is the people within it who create a community of belonging. We are grateful for the families who bring so much joy to our community every day. The simple acts of arriving and leaving school with a smile, a wave and a kind word, reflect the genuine love and commitment we share for our students and each other. These daily interactions build a strong, connected community that we treasure.

The best thing we do is communicate and work together, and that is a gift. Thank you for being a part of our Primary Years and college family. We enjoy sharing this journey with you, celebrating the successes of our students and embracing the opportunities that lie ahead.

Until next fortnight.

Marianne Loftus - Head of Primary Years

Class of 2024 Academic Assembly

We are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding performances of our senior musicians at the recent Academic Assembly. Our Principal, Mr Patrick Harmer took a moment to acknowledge their efforts, commending them for their courage in performing in front of the entire school community.

We also extend our congratulations to the award winners from the Class of 2024, many of whom were active members of our music program. Their achievements highlight the strong connection between musical involvement and academic success. Research consistently shows that students who engage in music develop valuable skills such as discipline, creativity, and perseverance—qualities that translate directly into academic excellence.

Congratulations to class of ’24 awards winners; William McC (piano), Carlin V (bass guitar), Martin T (piano), William M, (drums). Our music students continue to prove that dedication to their craft not only enhances their artistic abilities but also contributes to their broader educational success. We are incredibly proud of their accomplishments and look forward to seeing how they continue to thrive in the future.

Save the Date(s)!

'Twilight Music in the Courtyard'

• Thursday, 10 April. 5-6:30pm
• Venue: St Paul's College, Courtyard. (Wet Weather: Callan Hall)
• Performers: Secondary co-curricular ensembles and Yr 10 and SACE Music ensembles

Primary – ‘Music Afternoon Assembly’

• Wednesday, 25 June. 1-3pm
• Venue: St Paul’s College, Gymnasium.
• Performers: All Primary years students and the Primary Band

Co-curricular Ensembles have commenced

As we move into the new school year, we are excited to announce that our co-curricular ensembles have commenced. These ensembles provide a fantastic opportunity for students to further develop their musical skills, collaborate with peers, and be part of our vibrant music community. If any students are not already participating and would like to get involved, they are warmly encouraged to contact Mr. Oria VOria@stpauls.sa.edu.au for more details.

NEW Instrument Lessons – online sign up

The online sign-up for instrumental and vocal lessons is still active for any students who would like to enrol. Due to high demand, there is currently a waitlist for vocal and piano students as we work to engage new tutors. We encourage interested students to sign up as soon as possible to secure their place. Please note the new tab on the Parent Portal, live now, to sign up online.

Protecting Your Hearing – The Importance of Ear Protection

At St Paul’s College, we place great importance on protecting our students' hearing, especially during rehearsals and performances. Exposure to loud sounds over time can lead to tinnitus—a condition where individuals experience persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing in their ears. One of the most common causes of tinnitus is prolonged exposure to high-volume music, which can cause damage to the inner ear.

To help prevent hearing damage, we strongly encourage students to bring and use ear protection during rehearsals, particularly in loud ensemble settings. Wearing earplugs can significantly reduce the risk of long-term hearing issues while still allowing musicians to enjoy and engage fully in their practice.

In addition to using ear protection, students should also be mindful of their listening habits—keeping personal audio devices at safe volume levels and taking breaks from loud environments can help maintain healthy hearing for years to come.

By making ear protection a priority, we can ensure that all our musicians continue to enjoy performing and listening to music safely.

Find out more here

Veronica Marrie - Music and Performance Coordinator

On a recent visit to St Pius X, two of our Year 12 House leaders, Jay and Rocco, had the privilege of sharing their leadership experiences with Year 6 students at St Pius X, offering valuable insights into what it truly means to lead. During their visit, they shared the challenges, rewards, and personal growth they’ve experienced in their leadership roles, motivating the Year 6 students to consider applying for upcoming positions and embrace the opportunity to lead at their school.

“Going to St Pius was a rewarding experience, seeing all the student’s enthusiasm in building a connection with St Paul’s and being excited about starting their leadership journey.” – Jay Faugno

We are proud of our Year 12 leaders for their commitment to fostering leadership and community spirit within and beyond our school.

Christabella Iuliano – Leader of Identity and Mission (Secondary)

View Week 4 fixture here

Shrove Tuesday marks the day before the start of Lent, a time for reflection and preparation. 

On March 4th, primary and secondary students are invited to donate a gold coin to help celebrate this time of year. Students across the college will enjoy pancakes as part of the festivities.

God Bless

The Catholic Identity Team 

We are all excited and preparing for our two Sports Days – Primary on Thursday 27th of February and Secondary Sports Day on Friday 28th of February.

Our Parents and Friends Committee will be hosting a cake stall at both events, and we’d love your support. We're asking for donations of homemade cakes, slices, biscuits, and sweets to sell. Please avoid using cream and ensure all ingredients are clearly labelled for allergy awareness. Don’t forget to mark your containers with your name for easy return.

Donations can be dropped off at the front office on the morning of either Sports Day. Thank you for your generosity!

Enrolment applications for students commencing Reception and Year 7 in 2027 are due by the end of term. Although priority is given to sibling enrolments, we do require a completed application form for each younger sibling.

You can access an enrolment application form on the College website here or please don't hesitate to contact our Enrolments Office with any questions: enrolments@stpauls.sa.edu.au
 

Monday to Thursday, between 3.20pm and 4.20pm, students from Years 5 to 12 are welcome to attend Homework Club in the Resource Centre. Staffing for Week 5 and Week 6 will be:

Week 5

Monday - Jessica Stace (Health & PE)
Tuesday - Bernard Cummings (Health & PE) and Andrew Carlile (Maths)
Wednesday - Imtiaz Bughio (English) & Jack Prebble (English & History)
Thursday - Drew Akin (History, Geography, English)

Week 6

Monday - Stash Domiszewski (Maths, English, PE)
Tuesday - Marie La Dru (Art & Digital Technologies)
Wednesday - Maria-Grazia Vicario (English & Science)
Thursday - Ryan Austin (PE & Digital Technology)

We are currently advertising for the following positions:

- Administration Assistant
- Primary Teacher R-6 (Italian Specialist)
- Relief Teachers

Please see more information on our employment page here

Quick Easy & Healthy for Kids (5-11yrs) - April Holidays

If you are a budding chef, keen foodie or someone who needs a little food inspiration, Sprout kids classes are perfect!

At Sprout kids classes, kids learn to cook fresh, seasonal and healthy meals, from scratch, in their kitchen, using proper equipment and all by themselves. No cupcake decorating here, just real food and real skills.

Includes two courses, experienced staff, ingredients

More information here

Quick, Easy & Healthy for Kids (12-16yrs) - April Holidays

In their 12–16-year-old kids cooking classes, the kids eat and interact like adults.  They give them the responsibility of cooking and preparing adult recipes designed to be challenging and engaging.

No placing ingredients on pizza bases, think teriyaki salmon, ginger green beans and citrus souffle!

Includes two courses, experienced staff, ingredients

More information here

Family Fun (Adults + Kids) - April Holidays

We all know the importance of teaching children how to cook, educating children about where food comes from and the need to be positive role models when it comes to establishing healthy habits. This class gives parents and children the opportunity to cook and learn together.  Come along, learn, cook and eat with our younger friends, have fun in our kitchen and inspire the next generation of healthy foodies.

More information here