Luke 6:37-39

Be merciful just as your Father is merciful.

Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back"                               

Dear San Clemente Families

As a Catholic school community, we marked the formal start to our College year on Wednesday 19^th February with an Opening school liturgy and assembly. During the liturgy, we proudly commissioned our Year 10 Student Leaders, and the assembly saw the recognition of several of our 2024 Year 10 students who excelled in their ROSA.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our leaders for their commitment to this role and the College community.

San Clemente Student Leaders 2025 

Sophia Aguba, Ashline Akato, Liana Alfred, Caitlyn Bladon, Iyla Chandler, Felix Connor, Amelia Fuentes, Lucy Gallagher, Georgina Hughes, Eleanor Judd, William Keegan, Heidi Krause, Jorja Manahan, Isabella McQueen, Charlotte Murray, Andie Nechakoski, Cole Opalenko, Kyan Peers, Xavier Richards, Francheska Santiago, Charlotte Seib, Emily Tucker and Aziz Zarrouf.

And congratulations again to our 2024 ROSA Excellence Award Winners – Matilda Corbett, Harry De Bock, Lara McKelvey, Charisse Watters-Cowan, Deacon Williams and Annabella Wyman.

Ash Wednesday Liturgy

This coming Wednesday, we will have our Ash Wednesday Liturgy. This liturgy marks the beginning of Lent, the period of preparation before Christ’s death and resurrection. Our students will receive the ashes on their foreheads as a symbol of their commitment to focus on the needs of others during the six weeks leading up to Easter.

Year 7 Camp

On Monday our Year 7 students head to camp to bond as a group, make new friends and to test their skills and resilience in the fun but challenging camp program at Point Wolstoncroft on Lake Macquarie. We wish them all the best for this special time in their school life.

Open Evening

The annual San Clemente Open Evening will take place on Wednesday 12th March from 5.30pm – 7.30pm starting in the Veritas Centre. There is plenty of advertising through Facebook and our website to allow all in the community to register their interest and attendance. I have already had the immense pleasure of visiting Year 6 pathway primary schools this week, ahead of the Open Evening. Our Year 10 student leaders were an important part of these visits, and I thank them for sharing their experience and positive insights into San Clemente life with the Year 6 students.

The Open Evening event is open to all in the community who seek a Catholic education for their child either in Year 7 2025 or in other year groups. A feature of the information session to start the evening will be an outline of the processes involved in the inclusion of Years 11 and 12 at San Clemente from 2026. If you have friends, family or neighbours who may be interested, please encourage them to come along and learn more about our very special community. We look forward to another successful Open Evening supported by our staff, students, and families on the night.

Safeguarding our students.

At San Clemente, we place the safety of our students at the core of how we plan, think and act. The Diocese has a positive obligation to reduce the risk of abuse to children derived from law and regulation.

Our Diocese must ensure compliance with two sets of standards, both derived from the Royal Commission into Institutional Historic Child Sexual Abuse. These include the NSW Child Safe Standards and the National Catholic Safeguarding Standards (NCSS).

The ways in which our school meets these standards include:

• Our staff Code of Conduct and Commitment Statement is displayed on our website and posters in our school for transparency and to ensure that we all embrace a safeguarding culture, emphasising that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.
• We have a Safeguarding Promoter in our school whose role it is to monitor compliance and risk and promote all things safeguarding as a priority.

• We educate our students about safe relationships and protective behaviours and ensure they understand their human rights.
• Our Student Leadership Team allows students to have a voice and be heard.
• Parents and students have access to support information via School TV on our website.
• Equity is promoted and diversity is respected in our school through education and special events.

• Our staff undertake mandatory safeguarding training.
• Our staff regularly undertake professional development as well as invite external speakers into the school to discuss safeguarding topics with students and staff including online safety, bullying, trauma-informed practice etc.
• Our staff are supported in their roles, especially new staff.
• Our school follows Diocesan student placement protocols and procedures.

• We promote all Safeguarding policies by ensuring they are communicated with families on our websites and through our communication channels.
• Our classrooms, counselling rooms and other areas in the school are safe spaces with visibility from the outside but do not compromise our students’ right to privacy and wellbeing.
• We have an effective complaints management system in place, with students and families having a variety of avenues to provide feedback or complaints.

With prayers and blessings,

Mrs Emma South, Principal

Next week we commence the very important liturgical (Church) season of Lent, it might be worthwhile to look at what this season of lent leading up to Easter is all about. Easter is a significant period of time on the Catholic calendar, celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his Crucifixion. In the lead-up to Easter, Christians also acknowledge Lent - a time that helps Christians prepare to celebrate the Lord's Resurrection at Easter.

The following summary is taken from the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese website:

What is Lent?

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (05 March 2025) and ends at sunset, with Mass, on Holy Thursday (17 April 2025). It is a 40-day time of prayer, fasting, and giving to the poor that helps Christians prepare to celebrate the Lord's Resurrection at Easter.

Why is Lent important?

For Christians it is a time of reflection and repentance. A time to make right with others and God as they are led to the Paschal Mystery, that is the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Why is it 40 days?

In the Bible the number 40 would often indicate a time of trial, penance, renewal. In Luke we see this number being used to indicate the time Jesus fasted and was tempted in the desert prior to him starting his ministry.

Why is the colour purple significant during Lent?

Colours have always played an important part in the liturgical life of the church. Symbolically it can be used to represent royalty. Historically it was an expensive dye and only afforded by the wealthy. In the Gospel of Mark, we read that Pilate used a purple robe on Jesus to mock Him as “King of the Jews”.

Why do people fast from things?

Traditionally, fasting tended to be focussed on ‘things’ such as meat on Fridays, or chocolate, alcohol and so on. More and more the focus has become that of a conversion of the heart as Christians try to become more Christ-like and give up the behaviours that are not life-giving to others.

On what days are Catholics meant to fast?

It seems to be common knowledge that Catholics fast from meat during Lent. However, there are only two days the Church requires: Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Christians are called to fast in other ways during this time. Such as sharing their time and gifts with others and donating money where it is needed, rather than for wants. This ‘fasting’ is something that we can do every day.

Why do we eat hot cross buns during Lent?

Hot cross buns traditionally were not eaten during Lent. They were only eaten on Good Friday symbolising the crucifixion of Jesus. The popularity of the bun has meant that contemporary society has flipped that tradition on its head where the simple hot cross bun has now morphed into many flavours that are available in supermarkets well before Lent has even started.

Why are the Stations of the Cross a popular devotion during Lent? 

Being that Lent is a time of preparation to celebrate Easter, the 14 Stations that walk people through the journey of Jesus to the cross, help Christians to pray and meditate on Jesus’ suffering and death.

Why do we eat pancakes on Shrove Tuesday?

Traditionally Shrove Tuesday was an opportunity to use up ‘rich’ ingredients such as butter, eggs, and sugar before fasting for the Lenten season. Pancakes are the most logical thing to cook. It is a tradition that is still popular with many today, especially children.

Why do people have an ash cross on their forehead on Ash Wednesday?

Catholics have been doing this for centuries. In the Old Testament wearing ashes was a common sign of repentance for sins, and a sign of one’s humility before God. Since Lent is a season of restoring relationships it’s appropriate that this ancient sign marks the beginning of the season.

What do the Palms recall?

On the first day of Holy Week (the beginning of the last week in Lent) Christians remember Jesus entering Jerusalem on a donkey. Palms were laid on the road and waved by the onlookers celebrating his arrival as ‘the king’. These palms symbolised triumph and victory.

I am not Catholic; how can I get involved with Lent?

You don’t have to be Catholic to get involved. Find time to make things right with people you may need to repair a relationship with. Donate time and/or money to people in need. Fast from things you enjoy. Maybe find time to read the Bible. It’s never too late to give that a go.

https://mncatholic.sharepoint.com/sites/Homesite/SitePages/The-meaning-and-significance-of-Lent.aspx

For further information about Ash Wednesday and Lent you may wish to view the following https://bustedhalo.com/video/ash-wednesday-in-two-minutes

Next week we will have an Ash Wednesday ceremony for our Year 7 students while on their Camp. There will also be an Ash Wednesday liturgy for the rest of the school on the Wednesday morning.

Michael Fuller Ministry Coordinator.

Dear families, it feels like only last week that I was welcoming you all back to another school year! 

Therefore, this week I will attempt to keep this article short, sharp and sweet – starting with the ‘academic juggernaut’ that is NAPLAN. As Year 9 students start to prepare for their respective NAPLAN grand finals, I would encourage all families to familiarise themselves with the information below – which is also available on Compass from our DIAL Coordinator Mr. Dallas Collins.

Last week, (Week 4 - 27/2/25), saw students participating in NAPLAN practice testing. This is to help identify any technology issues and ensure students are ready and comfortable with the NAPLAN testing arrangements.

As we prepare for the upcoming NAPLAN testing, there are a few important requirements to ensure a smooth and successful experience that can be done prior to arriving at school:

1. Download the 2025 NAPLAN Locked Down Browser: This is essential for the testing process and must be downloaded. Please note that it was released on 20/2/2025, so even if you have downloaded it this year, you must download it again. You can find the direct link to the ACARA download here.

You can find a video tutorial on how to install the browser using this link "SCCC 2025 NAPLAN Locked Down Browser Install" or by searching this title YouTube.

2. Update Computers: Please ensure that your computer is up-to-date with the latest software updates.

3. Have headphones: Each student will need a pair of headphones for NAPLAN testing. There is no need to purchase expensive ones; inexpensive, corded headphones are perfectly suitable. While the school does have spare headphones available, for hygiene reasons and the students' peace of mind, it is recommended that each student brings their own.

Official NAPLAN testing will take place on the following dates:

• Week 6 – Wednesday 12/3/2025 – Writing

• Week 6 – Thursday 13/3/2025 – Reading

• Week 7 – Monday 17/3/2025 – Conventions of Language

• Week 7 – Tuesday 18/3/2025 – Numeracy

Thank you for your cooperation and support in ensuring that our students are well-prepared for NAPLAN testing. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

As we come to the end of another week, I would like to remind all families of the importance of wearing the San Clemente Catholic College uniform correctly and in particular how valuable it is to have your ongoing support from home in this area. Thank you to each student (and their family) who – every day – wears the SCCC uniform well and with pride. Unfortunately, we are seeing a small proportion of our community becoming complacent in the following areas;

• Socks – these need to be white and above a student’s ankle
• Piercings – additional/facial piercings are required to be either removed or replaced with a clear option. A single set of small earrings only are allowed to be worn when at SCCC
• Hoodies – as we head into the cooler months, we often see a number of ‘hoodies’ and incorrect jumpers making an appearance. Please make take the necessary steps to ensure that your child is in the correct SCCC jacket/jumper before Term 2 if necessary.

Finally, the annual SCCC Open Evening is fast approaching. The date for this year’s event is listed below;

• Wednesday 12^th March (Week 6) from 5.30pm to 7.30pm

If you are aware of anyone in your local community looking for more information about what our school has to offer, please encourage them to RSVP their intentions to attend by contacting the Administration staff via email or phone;

• Ph – 4014 7300
• Email -  admin@mayfieldsanc.catholic.edu.au

A final thought on the importance of curiosity;

“If knowledge is power, than curiosity is the muscle”

Families, as always, should you wish to discuss an issue concerning your child please do not hesitate to call The Office on 40147300 or email me directly - mitch.allan@mn.catholic.edu.au

Warm Regards,

Mitch Allan – Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Year 9

“From quiet reflection will come more effective action”

James Levin

I hope this newsletter finds you well and filled with hope and optimism as we move further into the school year. As we continue to live in the busyness of life it is important to take a moment to reflect on the power of thoughtful action. The quote above by James Levin is an important reminder that busy does not always mean better. It is important to take time for rest, relaxation and reflection. I feel this is a message I have been having with numerous children. When we stop, take a breath and have a moment to think. We act or think differently. Taking a moment to pause, reflect, and gather our thoughts before acting or reacting can make a huge difference in how we approach challenges and opportunities.

In Year 8, students are at a pivotal point in their educational journey. With new responsibilities and higher expectations, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. But before jumping into action, it’s essential to stop and reflect. Some questions I regularly ask students are:

• What are you interested in?
• What brings you joy in life?
• What are your core values?
• What do you want to achieve this year?
• What do you want to leave behind this year?
• What action do you need to take to achieve this?

I encourage you and your family to take some time to sit quietly, have a conversation and reflect in order to achieve more effective action.

Uniform is being worn to a high standard this year. Some reminders that need attention; socks need to be white and above the ankle. Nose rings need to be clear or covered with a band-aid and skate shoes are not permitted on PE or sport days. Thank you for your support in ensuring your child is being responsible with their uniform and ready to learn each day.

As we continue to detox from the relaxed technology limits during holiday break you may find the Game Aware organisation helpful. It provides support to families and individuals who are struggling with their technology use and has lots of helpful information. They can be found on the link: www.gameaware.com.au

Year 8 Shout Outs:

• Congratulations to Dante Spadari, Ethan Scott and Gemma Mooney who were awarded Age Champions at the Swimming Carnival.

Any questions or queries please feel free to email me on Meredith.macdonald@mn.catholic.edu.au or call on 40147300.

Meredith MacDonald, Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement Year 8

As we embark on another exciting school year, I would like to take this opportunity to share the wonderful learning experiences that our students will be engaging with in English at San Clemente College in 2025.

In Year 7, students will undertake an engaging novel and film comparative study, exploring the theme of Hope, Resilience, and the Individual. Through this unit, they will examine how different narratives convey messages of perseverance and personal growth.

Year 8 students will be delving into a novel that explores the Power of Equality and Justice. This study will encourage students to reflect on themes of fairness, human rights, and the role of literature in shaping societal values.

Our Year 9 cohort will be focusing on the theme From Innocence to Experience, examining texts that highlight the transition from childhood to maturity. Through this exploration, students will gain insight into character development and thematic progression.

Year 10 will engage with texts that explore the complex relationship between Society and the Individual. This thought-provoking unit will challenge students to analyse how societal expectations, cultural values, and personal identity intersect in literature and real life.

The English staff our looking forward to an enriching and inspiring year ahead. Thank you for your continued support in fostering a love for literature and learning in your child’s educational journey.

Belinda Dempsey Leader of Learning English

What’s happening in the Science Lab in Term 1 ………

Year 7 are undertaking an Introduction to Science involving safety in the laboratory, scientific equipment and method and how to collect and collate data. The latter part of the term students will investigate the Physical World and forces including gravity, magnetic forces, electromagnetism, buoyancy and more.

Year 8 will also be investigating the Physical World and energy including the forms of energy, how energy is transformed, how heat energy moves, electrical circuits and the importance of energy efficient devices.

Year 9 are investigating the Physical World, waves and energy, focusing on the structure of waves, sound waves, light waves, the electromagnetic spectrum and their application in our everyday lives.

Year 10 are investigating the Chemical World learning about chemical reactions in the laboratory, in our everyday lives and how to write a chemical equation.

Stage 5 Science & Engineering Challenge at the University of Newcastle is being held in week 10. 32 selected students from year 10, including our year 10 iSTEM class, will be attending the University the Stage 5 Science & Engineering Challenge. If your child is interested in attending, please ask them to email me, come and see me or speak with their Science Teacher.

Stage 5 iSTEM elective students are studying STEM fundamentals in year 9, preparing their first project. Year 10 are working towards designing and building a CO2 dragster for the project based learning unit.

Stage 5 Marine elective students are beginning their core swimming skills and first aid in year 9. Year 10 students are looking at Coastal Management which started out with a trip to Stockton Dunes to study the cultural and environmental aspects and stakeholders managing the dunes.

TAS Forensic Science Camp will be held this year from Tuesday 8^th to Saturday 12^th July at The Armidale School in the July holidays. If your child is interested, please contact the link provided on the flyer following. We have had a number of students attend this camp in past years, either solo or with a group of school friends and all speak highly of the experience.

Science faculty contact details If you have any questions or would like to follow up with your child’s teacher about anything regarding their Science education this year, please see details below.

Science Faculty teaching staff are:

Mrs Jessica Bellamy   jessica.bellamy@mn.catholic.edu.au

Mrs Rachel Buteaux   rachel.buteaux@mn.catholic.edu.au

Ms Corrina Oszko      corrina.oszko@mn.catholic.edu.au

Mr Michael Quinn       michael.quinn@mn.catholic.edu.au

Mrs Desley Sharman  desley.sharman@mn.catholic.edu.au

Our Laboratory Technician is Mrs Elizabeth Mead assisted by Mrs Jacqueline Crouch on a Friday.

Ms Julia Nolan – Leader of Learning Science    julia.nolan@mn.catholic.edu.au

CAPA/LOTE

A warm welcome back to 2025. The CAPA/LOTE faculty endeavours to provide a variety of opportunities within the classroom and also in an extra-curricular setting to ensure that all students experience the arts and languages. Throughout the school year San Clemente Catholic College will be offering a range of creative experiences for students to be involved in such as the Performing Arts Showcases, Annual Sight & Sound Exhibition, Music Ensembles, Drama and Dance groups, Performances at assemblies, school community celebrations and Liturgies, CAPA Immersion Experiences, DioSounds and Aspire.

LANGUAGES

"Language is the road map of a culture. It tells you where its people come from and where they are going." - Rita Mae Brown

Learning a second language…

• Stimulates brain development, enhances creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Improves memory, concentration, and numeracy skills.
• Enhances English literacy skills.
• Leads to better overall school performance.
• Encourages respect for and understanding of other cultures.
• Sparks curiosity about different ways of living.
• Promotes harmony and respect, both in school and beyond.
• Enhances social skills and empathy.
• Learning any language fosters better thinking, communication, and global citizenship.
• Learning a language opens doors to travel and career opportunities, allowing you to seize a world of possibilities.

We are fortunate at SCCC as our Stage 4 Language classes provide us with the opportunity to do all this and beyond. With the guidance of Mrs Tatiana Tinlin and Mrs Kristy Pascoe, well-equipped with comprehensive knowledge and real-world experience in their respective languages, our Year 7 students will delve into the realms of French and Japanese. Through these classes, students will have the chance to learn and immerse themselves in various facets of the language and culture.

DRAMA- Unleash your imagination, express yourself freely, and connect with others!

Why join a drama co-curricular group?

• Build confidence: Step out of your comfort zone and shine on stage.
• Unleash creativity: Bring characters and stories to life in your unique way.
• Master teamwork: Collaborate with others to create something amazing.
• Develop life skills: Learn public speaking, problem-solving, and adaptability.
• Make memories: Make new friends, Share laughs, challenges, and triumphs with your crew.

Step into the spotlight—your drama journey starts here!

DANCE- Feel the rhythm in your soul and let your body tell the story!

Why join a school dance group?

• Build confidence: Own the stage and express yourself through movement.
• Unleash creativity: Bring energy and emotion to every performance.
• Work as a team: Collaborate, synchronise, and create something incredible.
• Stay active: Improve strength, flexibility, and coordination while having fun.
• Make memories: Share the joy of dance with friends and create unforgettable moments.

Take the floor—let your moves shine!

Visual Arts lets you bring your imagination to life, whether through painting, clay, photography, or any other cool medium!

Why join a school art group?

• Express yourself: Turn ideas into powerful visual creations.
• Explore new techniques: Experiment with different styles and materials.
• Boost creativity: Think outside the box and develop your artistic voice.
• Connect with others: Share inspiration and collaborate with like-minded creatives.
• Build your portfolio: Develop skills and artworks to showcase your talent.

? Pick up a brush, a pencil, or a camera—let your creativity flow!

MUSIC

Playing a musical instrument can bring joy & fulfillment like no other activity

Music plays a vital role in the San Clemente Catholic College experience, with every student having the chance to engage with it, whether it's through classroom learning or by joining our diverse range of music ensembles. These include any ensemble combinations - rock bands, duos, trios, choirs, vocal groups, Diosounds and liturgical ensembles.

Why join a band or ensemble?

• Level up your skills: Fine motor precision and creativity like never before.
• Fuel your determination: Push through challenges and come out stronger.
• Crush it in school: Music sharpens focus, boosts memory, and amps up academic success.
• Express yourself: Channel your energy, emotions, and ideas into epic performances.
• Feel unstoppable: Build confidence, own the stage, and shine like the rockstar you are.

Our co-curricular program extends a warm invitation to students keen on acquiring new skills or refining their abilities in the CAPA disciplines. It offers an opportunity for students to connect with their peers in a welcoming environment. In 2025, seize the opportunity to actively engage by participating in one or more of the following offerings...

• Visual Art and Photography Workshops and Competitions
• Peripatetic Program- tuition in a range of instruments
• Performing Arts Showcases & Productions
• Music Ensembles
• Song writing competitions
• CAPA in the Community
• CAPA exhibitions, workshops and performances in Visual Arts, Dance, Music & Drama
• Sight & Sound

• Live@Lunch
• Open Night performance opportunities
• TheatreSports
• Dramafest
• Aspire Production and courses
• Drama Ensemble
• Dance Ensemble
• DioSounds
• Performances at school liturgies, assemblies, commemorative and fundraising events
• Battle of the Bands

BATTLE OF THE BANDS – Turn up the Volume, the Battle is On!

Get ready to rock! Mark your calendars for April 11th, 2025, when San Clemente Catholic College hosts the epic Battle of the Bands. It's your moment to shine, showcasing your talent, creativity, and passion before an enthusiastic audience and a panel of respected judges. Whether you're a seasoned performer or new to the stage, now's your chance to rally your bandmates, rehearse diligently, and get ready for an electrifying musical showdown. Don't pass up this opportunity to leave your mark and share your unique sound with the world. The countdown is on—let the excitement build!

SCCC Peripatetic Program - Private Instrumental lessons

San Clemente Catholic College offers private music tuition for Years 7-10, with lessons available in:

• Keyboard & Piano
• Guitar (Acoustic, Electric, Bass)
• Percussion (Drums)

Lessons are 30 minutes, either individual or group, with fees paid directly to the tutor. Costs vary by instrument and teacher. Before commencing lessons, parents must complete and submit a permission form for their child to participate in music tuition.

Looking for an instrument not listed? Email your request—lessons for violin, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, and more may be arranged based on demand.

Explore CAPA opportunities—reach out with ideas, questions, or event suggestions!

Join Our Co-Curricular Programs: Open to all students interested in developing new skills or honing their abilities in the CAPA fields. It's a fantastic way to socialise and enjoy a variety of activities in an inclusive setting. For more information or activity suggestions, please contact Kate James at kate.james@mn.catholic.edu.au.

Kate James CAPA/LOTE-Leader of Learning

Greetings San Clemente Community,

Beyond the Gates is an inclusive program that aims to support students and their families who may require additional or more versatile support services. The program has a flexible eligibility criterion, meaning referrals are made and prioritised in partnership between the school wellbeing team and Beyond the Gates staff member. Student and family engagement in our program is entirely voluntary. The service is provided by the school to recognise and address developmental and life challenges that can sometimes create barriers to student wellbeing and achievement.

This program can address issues impacting on students’ achieving their full potential, including areas such as school attendance, family difficulties, trauma, anxiety, mental and physical ill-health, and any other struggles that impact wellbeing. The program works alongside the schools’ wellbeing, learning support, and counselling teams to support families in need through case management or case coordination.

Through case management, a support plan is developed in collaboration with the students and their families that work towards desired goals. As part of the process, the caseworker liaises with the school and other agencies or supports involved, aiming to bridge the gap between the school and families to ensure holistic and consistent support is provided.

Learn more about Beyond the Gates - YouTube

We have two Beyond the Gates Caseworkers based at San Clemente Catholic College.

Kalisi Ma’afu – Monday to Friday.

John Sandy – Every Tuesday.

If you would like to know more about the Beyond the Gates program or discuss support, contact Kalisi, John, or the wellbeing team.

Kalisi – kalisi.maafu@catholiccare.org.au

John – john.sandy@catholiccare.org.au  

Learn more about Beyond the Gates - YouTube

KALISI MA'AFU -  KMaafu@catholiccare.org.au
CC BEYOND THE GATES CASEWORKER CATHOLICCARE SOCIAL SERVICES HUNTER-MANNING

Year 7 have settled into the routine of high school and maintained a high standard of conduct during Library lessons. Many students have contributed their responses during class, visited our Library during break times and participated in the many Library activities such as the weekly Brainteasers, Lunchtime Trivia and paper crane folding.

Students revealed their passion for reading a variety of books through a quick reading questionnaire. The data collated from the Year 7 cohort indicated high interest in the following genres in order of interest: Adventure / Mystery, Fantasy, Humour, Horror / Suspense, Sport, Graphic Novels and Romance.

Our College Library boasts a diverse assortment of titles from all genres including quick reads for students who don’t have much time or would like to start reading at a easier pace. As we continue to increase our Library collection it is hoped that all students discover a book that encourages them to read and enjoy books. The many benefits of reading include helps with relaxation and sleep, builds empathy, improves writing and builds vocabulary, and keeps you entertained.

The questionnaire also revealed students’ continued interest in sport. We are delighted to advertise SORA, our online reading platform. All Year 7 classes will focus on SORA in their third Library lesson. This versatile online platform boasts e-books, e-magazines and audiobooks! If your child needs a refresher on SORA please visit the staff in the Library who will only be too happy to assist.

2025 New procedure – Library Daily Loan Device

The San Clemente Catholic College Library daily loan device is available to all students who are experiencing issues with their own device. As this is a BYOD College it is an expectation that students have a fully charged laptop with them each day. The loan devices are available to any student with a legitimate reason, as a temporary measure. The Library only has a small number of devices in reserve. A student who forgets their device on any day or forgets to charge their computer does not constitute an emergency and they will not be permitted to borrow. Parents/carers may be contacted by the College to enquire after the progression of the computer repair/new purchase.

If your child needs a Library daily loan device they should:

• Step 1: Inform the Library staff and explain the reason for the loan
• Step 2: The Library staff will email the parents/carers via Compass for their consent
• Step 3: When consent has been agreed to by parents the student will be permitted to borrow and must present to the Library before school or during Mentor 

Library loan devices are for students who do not have a working device – it is broken and in repair. They are whole day loans.
We generally have more borrowers than we have laptops to loan, so we cannot lend them to students who simply don’t bring their own, forget to bring them, or neglect to charge them. 

1. Students need to come to the Library to borrow a device either before school or during Mentor period with their Mentor’s permission
2. Laptops are not issued during the day
3. Students need to return the laptop during final break (if not needed in last period) or immediately before home bell.  
4. On Fridays they need to be returned at lunch time

Thank you in advance for your assistance and cooperation.

Mr Dallas Collins - Leader of Learning/Digital Innovation 

Mrs Lynette van Zeeland – Teacher Librarian lynette.vanzeeland@mn.catholic.edu.au

Mrs Kristy Hüber – Librarian kristy.huber@mn.catholic.edu.au

Canteen Lunch Orders:

Student lunches can be ordered online using the QKR! App. All orders must be received before 8.30 am of day required.

Purchases can also be made at Canteen using cash or physical card.

Canteen does not allow students to use their mobile phones to "tap" payment, (as per San Clemente's No Mobile Phone Policy)

Thank you for supporting San Clemente Canteen.