College Newsletter Term 1 Week 4 20 February 2026
Key Dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February | |
| 20 | College Interhouse Swimming Carnival, Valley Pool |
| 23 | Mary Rice House Breakfast, 7.30am – 8.30am |
| 24 | Carey House Breakfast, 7.30am – 8.30am |
| 25 | Hogan House Breakfast, 7.30am – 8.30am |
| 26 | Long House Breakfast, 7.30am – 8.30am |
| 27 | School Clean Up Australia Day |
| 27 | Interhouse Sports Day Yr 5-9, Session 3 & 4 |
| March | |
| 2 | Yr 9/10 Titans Rugby Competition |
| 4-6 | Yr 12 Cert II Outdoor Education Assessment Camp |
| 6 | International Women’s Day Lunch |
| 6 | Super 7s Netball Tournament |
| 10 | Yr 6 Bright Future STEM incursion |
| 11 | NAPLAN (Writing) |
| 12 | NAPLAN (Language) |
| 13 | NAPLAN (Reading) |
| 16 | NAPLAN (Numeracy) |
| 17 | Rugby League SBT Boys Pre-Season Challenge |
| 18 | P&F Meeting, 5.30pm – 6.30pm |
| 19 | Ramadan Finishes |
| 19-20 | Pirlirrpa Camp |
| 20 | National Day Against Bullying and Violence |
| 23 | International Study Tour (Japan) |
| 24 | Rugby League NRL RISE Girls’ Gala Day |
| 25 | Sports Assembly |
| 25 | YLAA Middle School Leaders Conference |
| 26 | Yr 5 & 6 Retreats |
| 27 | Principal’s Tour, 9.30am – 10.15am |
| 27 | Harmony Day | Asian Festival |
| 30-31 | Yr 5 Camp, Jimmies on the Dam |
| 31 | Yr 6 Camp, Jimmies on the Dam |
| April | |
| 1 | Yr 6 Camp, Jimmies on the Dam |
| 1 | Rugby League League Stars Challenge (Primary) |
| 2 | Easter Liturgy |
| 2 | St James Taster Day for Browns College |
| 2 | Yr 12 Formal |
| 2 | Last Day of Term 1 |
| 13-15 | EREA Football (Nudgee College) |
Leadership Team
Principal
Andrée Rice
Our Opening Mass and Commissioning Ceremony for our Year 12 Seniors was a moving and dignified occasion and we were most grateful to the new Archbishop of Brisbane, Shane Mackinlay for celebrating Mass for us. The Archbishop spoke to us about the Christian call to be one, in union, and his theme gave theological depth to our school theme for 2026: Yoonthala – we are one in one place. As I have referenced already, this theme is incredibly relevant to the disruption and upheaval we see in the world around us and the onus is on each of us to contribute to the building up of unity, not only at Jimmies but in the wider world.
In my reflection at Mass, I called on students to listen to each other, to respect each other, even when disagreeing, and I connected our new pedagogy of teaching, Teaching For Thinking with this theme. I hope you take the time to talk to your child about how their classroom is looking and sounding this year, and I hope you hear about Socratic circles, engagement in learning and setting high expectations! Please tell us if you do.
Our Year 12 students conducted themselves superbly during the Opening Mass and we are looking forward to seeing their leadership skills develop this year. Congratulations to our First Nations’ dance troupe, our choir and all readers for their excellent performances. Thankyou to our Year 12 parents and family members for supporting us with your attendance.
We have commenced Lent this week and all students were able to receive the ashes on their foreheads, a sacred Catholic symbol of repentance and turning away from our wrongdoings and hurtful attitudes and actions in order to draw closer to our neighbour and God. This Lent, Pope Leo asks us to:
“Disarm your language, avoid harsh words and rash judgements, refrain from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves. In this way, words of hatred will give way to words of hope and peace.”
We remember our Muslim families who commence Ramadan at the same time as Lent and who also fast, pray and give alms to the poor. Their fasting is intense and challenging, and we are supporting our Muslim students during this time. We are so lucky at St James to be learning from each other and joining together in this sacred time as human beings, all in the united search of a closer relationship with our loving God. Yoonthala: we are one in one place.





Lenten Prayer
Lord of mercy and light,
As we journey through these forty days,
quiet our restless hearts and open our eyes
to see You in the faces of the poor,
the lonely, and the forgotten.
Teach us to fast from selfishness,
to feast on compassion,
to turn from shadows and walk in Your truth.
When the path feels long,
remind us of the cross that leads to life,
and the empty tomb that speaks of hope.
Renew our hearts,
so that when Easter dawns,
we may rise with You in joy,
ready to love as You have loved us.
Amen.
Assistant Principal – Students
Kaitlyn Downey
Healthy Technology Habits at Home
Following our recent visit from Internet Safe Education, and in support of student wellbeing and safety, we encourage families to review and update their plans for laptop and phone use at home. Setting clear boundaries and discussing them openly with your children helps promote online safety and ensures students are getting adequate rest each night.
Suggested boundaries include:
- Set a nightly cut-off time for devices to help students wind down.
- Charge and store devices in shared spaces, such as the kitchen, rather than in bedrooms.
- Limit screen time 30–60 minutes before bed to improve sleep quality.
Simple, consistent routines like these help students stay safe, well-rested, and ready to learn. Thank you for partnering with us to promote healthy technology habits.
Around the College
Exciting News from Pirlirrpa: A New Space for Learning and Community
Erin Shetty and Ryan Chapman
The Pirlirrpa Program is proud to announce the opening of its new classroom and Pirlirrpa community space, designed to provide a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment for our students and their families. This new space reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting learning, creativity, and connection for all children.
Pirlirrpa is an Aboriginal word from the Warlpiri People, of the Tanami Desert, it represents "The Spirit, The Soul, The Person's Essence"
In addition to our learning areas, we will also be hosting family-focused events, workshops, and opportunities for parents and guardians to connect with the Pirlirrpa team and each other. This space aims to strengthen community engagement and foster meaningful connections, creating a hub for learning and support beyond the classroom.
At Pirlirrpa, every child’s learning journey is important, and this new space is a big step forward in making that journey even more enriching and inspiring while being student-centred.
Year 10 Camp
Xavier O’Halloran
From February 5 to 8, our Year 10 students attended a three-day camp experience at Emu Gully. Set in the rugged bushland of Helidon, Emu Gully provides a powerful program focused on resilience, teamwork and leadership, and our students rose to the challenge.
Over the three days, students participated in a range of physically and mentally demanding activities designed to push them beyond their comfort zones. From navigating muddy obstacle courses and tackling team-based challenges, to stepping up in leadership moments, students were encouraged to persevere, communicate effectively and support one another.
A highlight for many was the famous mud run and obstacle challenges, where students had to rely on teamwork to succeed. Whether it was climbing, crawling, carrying or problem-solving, it quickly became clear that no one succeeds alone. The encouragement from peers was constant, and it was fantastic to see students stepping up to motivate others when things became tough.
Each day concluded with opportunities for reflection and connection. Students gathered to debrief their experiences, recognise acts of courage and leadership, and consider how the lessons learned could apply to their final years of schooling. These moments of reflection were powerful in helping students appreciate both their own growth and the strengths of those around them.
Year 10 Camp is an important milestone as students prepare for the senior phase of learning. It sets the tone for the year ahead, one built on resilience, responsibility and unity. We were incredibly proud of the way students represented the College, embraced the challenges, and supported one another throughout the experience.
Student Reflections
Year 10 camp had a big impact on me, both physically (my arms are still sore) and mentally. In our first couple hours there, I wondered how doing 100 push-ups in the scorching heat could possibly help with teamwork and unity. However, it wasn’t until after the night walk activity that I understood everything.
The night walk activity required us to travel three kilometres while always holding one group member on a stretcher. I felt nervous at the start, but together as a group, we hyped ourselves up through chanting and pushed forward. Although, when we barely made it up the first steep hill, we realised we needed more than just the 70% energy and encouragement we were giving to keep going.
After listening to some much-needed feedback from the instructor, we continued the daring hike, conquering multiple steep and unstable terrains, both uphill and downhill.
We then reached the final stretch, an almost perpendicular hill. During the climb, I saw my peers reaching out their hands, pulling and pushing each other up. We all worked in tandem to overcome this challenge.
After conquering the final hill, we sat as a group to reflect. My favourite part was that no one turned on their torches. The darkness removed the things that separated us, gave the quieter members confidence to speak, and helped us focus on what was being said rather than who was saying it. I believe this camp helped me realise what it truly means to be a part of a unified community, we are stronger working together than we are ever alone.









International Study Tour Immersion Program
Kaspar Wong
We’ve had an exciting start to the term as our college welcomed 11 visiting students from China for a three‑day immersion program. Throughout the week, our Year 6, Year 9, and Year 11 students engaged in wonderful cultural exchanges, sharing their stories, perspectives, and unique traditions. The collaborative classroom activities led to enriching conversations that brought everyone closer together.
Our study tour immersion program is a vital component of our international engagement initiative, shaping our students into global citizens. This year, we’re especially excited to host additional study tours from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, and China. These experiences will nurture intercultural understanding and forge lasting connections around the world. Here’s to a term filled with growth, learning, and vibrant new friendships.
Year 10 students recently attended their year level camp at Emu Valley. Our international students had a fantastic time with their domestic counterparts. The camp activities were new for these students from overseas, as such experiences are not common in Asia. It was outstanding to see the students take initiative and bravely participate in various activities.
Year 7 and 8 Wellbeing – Belonging and Identity
Yacob Kial
Last week our Year 7 and 8 students took part in their first Wellbeing session for the term, focusing on the theme of Belonging and Identity.
We were fortunate to work alongside presenters from Ethni, an organisation that supports young people to explore culture, heritage and personal identity through storytelling and creative expression. Their workshops encourage students to recognise the value of their background and understand the diverse experiences within their community.
Students listened to the presenters share their own heritage journeys and spoke about the different influences that shape who we are, including family, culture, language, interests and personal experiences. These conversations prompted thoughtful discussion and allowed students to see both the similarities and differences within their cohort.
Following this, each student created a personal identity page that will form part of a collective Year 7 and 8 book. The book will grow throughout the year and aims to celebrate every student’s story, helping strengthen connection across the cohort.
Over the coming weeks, students will continue exploring what shapes their identity and how a strong sense of belonging supports wellbeing, confidence and positive relationships at school.
Building Community Through Breakfast
Mary Hecker-Paterson
At St James College, we know that wellbeing often begins with connection, and sometimes, connection can mean FOOD! Our Breakfast Club operates every Wednesday and Thursday from 8:00–8:30am, completely free of charge, in the School Café, offering students a free, nutritious meal to start their day. The options rotate weekly, however, we will always supply the basics such as fruit, and cereal.
Led by our School Youth Nurse, Nurse Helya and Wellbeing Development Officers Mary and Suzanna, the Breakfast Club is more than just food; it’s a welcoming space where students can check in, chat, and feel nourished and supported. All students are invited to join us each week, you can hang out or simply grab and go your breakfast. Come say hi, and eat with us!
School Community Industry Partnership Service (SCIPS) Visit Supports Year 12 Construction Students
Tony Ninasivinche
On Wednesday 11 February, we welcomed Ruby Daly from SCIPS to St James College as part of the Seek’a Trade 2026 Program.
Ruby met with our Year 12 Construction students to outline upcoming work experience opportunities in the construction industry. She explained the program structure, placement options for Term 2 and the holidays, and supported students to begin their registrations.
The session provided valuable insight into industry expectations and pathways beyond school. We thank Mr David Hopper, Ruby and the SCIPS team for their continued partnership in supporting our students’ transition into apprenticeships and employment.
Year 11 Cert II Outdoor Recreation Assessment Camp
Darin Coombs
The Year 11 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation students recently completed their first assessment camp for the course, demonstrating outstanding skill, teamwork and resilience throughout the experience.
The assessment focused on key components including canoeing skills, water rescues, and preparation for a full day of paddling. On Wednesday, students set up their own campsite using swags before participating in a comprehensive safety briefing. They then undertook practical canoe self-rescue activities, applying techniques learned in class to real-life scenarios.
Throughout the camp, students were responsible for all aspects of camp life, including setting up and packing down, cooking, cleaning, organising equipment, and assisting in the running of activities, as part of their formal assessment.
On Thursday, students completed a 10km paddle at Lake Wyaralong. During this journey, they demonstrated their ability to correctly pack and unpack canoes, navigate using appropriate techniques, waterproof food and equipment, and interpret weather conditions and forecasts to ensure safe participation.
Despite facing challenging conditions, including thunderstorms, 42-degree heat, and rain to conclude the camp, students showed remarkable resilience and adaptability. Their ability to respond positively to changing weather and assessment demands was commendable.
This camp marks the first of seven assessment camps students will complete throughout the duration of their Certificate course. Congratulations to all students on successfully completing a demanding and rewarding first camp.



Equine Program
Sue Cameron
Our equine program resumed last week in extremely hot conditions. Despite the heat, our students worked diligently to support new team-mates and share their knowledge with others. I thank our two mentors, Matthew Johnson-Millie and Riley Nolan for their dedication and focus, setting an exceptional example for our younger group participants.




Annual HEAL Welcome Lunch
Sue Cameron
Our Principal, Ms Andree Rice and two of our EALD Ambassadors, Year 12 students Qais Rezaie and Hamid Rezai, warmly welcomed new students from refugee backgrounds to our annual HEAL Welcome lunch. We were also delighted that Ms Tiffany Chen from Multicultural Australia and Mr Azad Ahmadi from QPASTT were able to attend and extend a warm welcome to our new students.



Year 12 Retreat
Sam Stocks
Earlier this week, our Year 12 students embarked on their final school retreat, spending three memorable days at QCCC Mapleton. Set amongst the beautiful Sunshine Coast hinterland, the retreat provided the perfect backdrop for connection, challenge and reflection as our seniors begin their final year at the College.
Throughout the three days, students immersed themselves in a wide range of activities including canoeing, rock climbing, archery, bush walking, pool games and a high-energy movement session. Each activity provided opportunities for teamwork, resilience and plenty of laughter.
The purpose of the Year 12 Retreat is always to strengthen the cohort as they step into their role as College leaders. This year, that focus was intentionally grounded in our College theme of “Yoonthala” – we are one in one place. Students were challenged to consider what it means to lead as a united front and to support one another as they complete their final year of schooling.
In the evenings, students gathered for meaningful reflection sessions led by Mr Matt Silao. These moments centred on forgiveness, affirmation and unity, inviting students to acknowledge one another’s strengths and commit to finishing their schooling journey together. These conversations powerfully reflected our theme of Yoonthala.
The retreat concluded with an Ash Wednesday Liturgy — a fitting and grounding end to three significant days. As our Year 12 students step into their leadership roles, they are reminded that true leadership begins with humility.
Finally, this retreat would not have been possible without the generosity and commitment of our staff, who gave their time and energy — often away from their own families — to support our students. A heartfelt thank you to Mr Isikeli Kubunameca, Ms Nicole Christenson, Mr Xavier O'Halloran, Mr Andrew Ebrington, Ms Lisa Kubunameca, Mr Matt Silao, Ms Nicole Johnson, Ms Antonia Lu, Mr Callan Wiseman, Ms Hounein Dawood, Ms Josateki Tora, Ms Mariedelpi Silao, Mr Atem Atem, Ms Rejeli Tora, Ms Rhiannen Lubarski, Ms Bella Satui, Mr Jerry Almencion and Ms Ava Watson. Your presence and leadership made these three days such a success.
Students were asked a few questions at the conclusion on retreat, please some of their reflections below:
What did you enjoy about the retreat?
"Being able to connect and learn more about not only people in my house but other year 12 students as well. Also seeing students getting involved in all activities and trying their best at them."
"I enjoyed the range of activities and the meaningful interactions I have had with my peers."
"What I enjoyed about retreat was being able to connect with people that I wouldn't usually talk, being able to go on this retreat helped me to learn that forgiveness is a huge part of life and that no matter how far you think your problems have gone, you can always seek forgiveness."
What's something you learnt on retreat?
"The importance of Yoonthala (unity) and how it allows everyone to connect with one another."
"I learnt the importance of 'Yoothala' and how much impact a small conversation can make change in a friends experience."
What do you want to bring back in the community?
"I would like to bring back a sense of community within all my peers instead of just the usual cliques and bring everyone closer together."
"By showing and allowing others to see how important it is to have Yoonthala with each other. The significant values that friendship can have."



Celebrating Lunar New Year in the Library
Sarah Mouritz
The St James Library celebrated Lunar New Year and the Year of the Horse with our Year 5 and 6 students. In Chinese culture, the Year of the Horse symbolises energy, determination, and a love of freedom.
Students enjoyed hands-on activities, learning to craft traditional paper lanterns and create hongbao (red envelopes). Alongside these creative experiences, students explored the history and traditions associated with Lunar New Year, including the cultural meaning behind the zodiac.
A big thank you to Lisha Song and Kasper Wong from the International Team for sharing their knowledge and supporting these engaging sessions.
IT Club
Marco Lam
IT Club continues to be a fantastic opportunity for students to explore technology, develop new skills, and connect with others who share an interest in IT and digital creativity. Held every Tuesday during Break 1 in the library with Mr Lam, the club welcomes students of all skill levels, whether they are beginners or already confident with technology.
This week, students explored the world of digital photography by learning how DSLR cameras work. Students enjoyed experimenting with different techniques and learning how small adjustments can dramatically change a photo’s outcome.
IT Club provides a supportive, hands-on environment where students can learn new technologies, build confidence, and develop practical skills for the future. All interested students are encouraged to come along and join the fun each Tuesday in the library.



The Kokoda Challenge 2026
Sarah Mouritz
The 2026 St James Kokoda Challenge is officially launching, and St James students are invited to be part of this exciting experience!
The Kokoda Challenge is a team endurance event that promotes resilience, teamwork, and personal growth while building physical fitness and mental strength. Participants can choose from the 18km, 30km, or 48km events with the actual event occurring on 13 June 2026. Everyone is welcome!! Training will begin on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. Training is designed to gradually build confidence, skills, and endurance. If you would like to join or would like more information, please see Ms Sarah in the Library or Mr Tan for more information. Permission forms must be returned before training commences on Wednesday, 25 February 2026.
Sport
Central Sharks
Congratulations to the following girls who were selected for the 16-19yrs Netball team: Lucy Scott, Manaia Heke, Shyah Kara, Psalms Peeni, Ariella Schuster-Oloapu, Jahvani Sweny, Alyssa Spieker, Tailah Rewha-Lo, Kailee Upkett.
Congratulations to the following students for making the 13-16yrs Basketball team: Keyla Rameka, Eden Cooper, Ayva Semeatu, Amaia Taylor, Leilani Tiatia, Kingston Peris, Darelle Paiwan,
Met East
Congratulations to Keilani Orupe for being selected in the Met East Softball team.
Student Sporting Successes
A huge congratulations to our students who competed at the Met East Aquathlon and Triathlon in Hervey Bay:
- Hugo Brittain - Bronze medal
- Oli Hutchison - 3 x Gold medals
- Ari Mueller - 2 Gold medals and a Silver medal
All three students were selected for the Queensland team, and the Met East team were crowned State Champions.
Multi Class Sport program Kicks Off!
We are excited to announce that our Multi-Class Sport classes have officially begun! These inclusive sessions are designed to ensure all students have the opportunity to participate in fun and engaging physical activities, regardless of their individual needs.
For our younger students, Year 5 and 6 students are enjoying cycling sessions on the lower yard every Friday. It's a fantastic way for them to develop their cycling skills while having fun with friends. Our older students, from Year 7 to Year 12, are heading to Spring Hill Baths each Monday for their sport classes. The sessions provide a great environment to stay active and enjoy water-based activities. These classes are specially tailored for neurodiverse students or those who are unable to access the regular co-curricular sport program, ensuring everyone can be involved and benefit from physical activity.
If you would like your child to participate in the Multi-Class Sport program, please contact the sports department at sports@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au for more information.
Central Sharks District Trial Process
Students planning to trial, the proper protocols need to be followed:
- At no point are students or parents allowed to contact the Central Sharks Convenors directly.
- These are not come and have a go trials. Students must play to a high level to be considered.
- If there are 5 or more students attending Central Sharks District trials then a staff member from St James will be present, but students still need to make their own way to and from the venue.
Central Sharks District (10– 19 Years) Trials
For all information regarding district trials, please contact the Sports Office for relevant paperwork.
For more information about Central Sharks trials (including dates and locations), please follow the link. Central Sharks
Central Sharks Trials
24 February
- 10 – 12yrs Boys AFL
- 13 – 15yrs Girls Netball
- 15 – 16yrs Boys Rugby League
- 17 – 18yrs Boys Rugby League
25 February
- 10 – 12yrs girls AFL
Met East Trials
26 February
- 15 -16yrs Girls Rugby League
- 17 - 18yrs Girls Rugby League
Football/Futsal Training Schedule 2026
| Time | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:30am - 8:30am | U12s & U14s Boys Futsal (Hall) - Patrick & Lino | JNR Girls Football MPC Mr Seng & Ms Baghaie Senior Boys Football Field Session Off-site Michael & Mr Maher |
INT Boys Football (Year 10-12 Students) MPC Mr O’Halloran |
JNR Boys Football MPC Patrick & Lino |
U12s & U14s Girls futsal Hall Mr Seng & Ms Baghaie |
| S1 | - | Senior Boys Football Field Session Cont | - |
- | - |
| 1st Break | - | U16s & Opens Girls Futsal Hall Mr Wiseman |
- | ||
| 3pm - 4pm | U16s Boys Futsal Hall Michael |
Opens Boys Futsal Hall Michael |
SNR Girls Football MPC Mr Wiseman |
Senior Boys Football 3-3:30 Gym 3:30-4:40 MPC Michael & Mr Maher |
- |
Players of all skill levels are encouraged to attend. Please ensure your child comes prepared with appropriate gear (boots for field sessions and futsal shoes for the hall).
If you require any further information please contact the Football & Futsal Coordinator, Mr Michael Anderson, manderson@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au
Queensland School Futsal League
Mr Michael Anderson, Mr James Anderson, Mr Jeremy Seng, Ms Helya Bahaie, Mr Patrick Carter.
Our first SFL day was a valuable experience for our Junior and Senior girls’ futsal teams. Both sides played two competitive games and took part in an opposed training session, building skills and teamwork. The Juniors impressed despite inexperience, narrowly losing to Calamvale Community College and later falling to Brisbane Adventist College with injuries and fatigue. Asia was Player of the Tournament, with strong support from debutants Mobina, Andema and Serenity. The Seniors lost to Islamic College Brisbane but rebounded to defeat Rochedale SHS 4–1. Aye earned top honors, with standout efforts from Skye and Janae. Thanks to our dedicated staff coaches for their efforts throughout the day.
The U14 Boys had their first look at SFL; despite playing with an incredible amount of heart, they suffered 2 losses. For a team playing their first few fixtures together, the boys started to find some connections and classy plays. Players of the day were Kafule Mwamba and Nathan Makoni.
Our Opens boys futsal team gave great effort from all players. Team 1 won 1 match and lost 2, showing resilience in the top division. Player of the day - Juan Contreras Paredes. Team 2, despite results not going their way, demonstrated determination and teamwork. We’re proud of their sportsmanship and encourage everyone to keep trying and improving! Player of the day - Farhan Gulistani.
Senior Boys First XI Football – Mr Chris Maher, Mr Michael Anderson, Mr James Anderson
A fantastic start to the Senior Boys football season saw St James secure a 6–3 victory. Locked at 3–3 at half-time, the team produced some outstanding collective goals before delivering a much-improved defensive performance in the second half to seal an impressive and well-deserved win. There were a lot of positives to take away from the game that we can build on before the EREA competition in the Easter Holidays. Individual plaudits go to Sahr on a well-deserved hat-trick. Our next opponent is fellow EREA school St Laurence's on Wednesday 25 February. Player of the Match for his hat-trick – Sahr Thomas.
Football Queensland Q-League Schools Boys Gala Day – Mr Michael Anderson, Mr Patrick Carter, Mr Lino Bartilimo
The Football Queensland Q-League Schools Boys Gala Day was a fantastic experience for our St James community. Both the Junior and Senior Boys teams enjoyed a positive day of competition, showing determination, teamwork and resilience across a series of challenging matches. While results were mixed, the effort and sportsmanship on display were outstanding. It was especially exciting to see many new St James footballers proudly donning the Liverpool Red for the very first time, representing the College with enthusiasm and pride. The future is certainly bright for our teams, and we eagerly look forward to their next outing in two weeks’ time.
Upcoming Events:
20 February: St James College Swimming Carnival – The Valley Pool
27 February: Year 5-9 Interhouse Sports Day
2 March: Year 9/10 Titans Rugby Competition
6 March: Super 7s Netball Tournament
Fees
Genevieve O’Sullivan
Please be advised that Term 1 fees have been emailed. If you have not received an email from us, please check your Junk or Spam email folder. All statements are accessible via logging in to Parent Lounge and clicking on the Accounts & Payments tab at the top of the page.
For those families who have Direct Debit authorities recommencing this year, your first payments have commenced. If you would prefer your payments to be debited from your account on a different day, please let us know, and we will amend this for you.
For those families on fees concessions or regular payment plans, please just continue your regular payments as arranged, this includes CentrePay, Direct Debit and BPAY.
If you are experiencing financial hardship and would like to apply for a fees concession, please contact us for a confidential discussion and application.
2026 Tuition Fees information can be found on our website here: https://www.stjamescollege.qld.edu.au/enrol/domestic-students
Should you have any queries or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us at finance@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au or 3230 8600.
Please note that non-payment of fees and no contact with the College to discuss a payment plan or fees concession may result in referral to an external debt collection agency. We strongly encourage you to reach out to the Finance Department as soon as possible if you are experiencing difficulties with your payments, so we can assist in finding a solution.
Queensland Government School Transport Assistance
The Queensland Government provides assistance with school transport costs for eligible students travelling to and from school under the School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS).
STAS assistance is available for all government funded bus and ferry services (including TransLink and qConnect services). Assistance is also available for rail travel (City Rail and G-Link) and private vehicles travel subject to meeting specific eligibility criteria such as:
General eligibility criteria
Students may be eligible for school transport assistance under certain circumstances if they:
- Have parents/guardians who are residents of Queensland.
- Attend an approved school or alternative program approved by the Department of Education.
- Are younger than 19 years of age.
- Are seeking transport assistance to and from one address only.
- Make a minimum of two trips per week via the nominated transport mode.
- Are in families that possess a Centrelink Pension, Healthcare or Department of Veterans Affairs concession card.
More information and online application can be found here: https://stas.forms.tmr.qld.gov.au/content/forms/af/TranslinkForms/STASApplication/STASApplication.html

Notices




Reminder for families:
Please ensure your contact details are up to date on Parent Lounge or contact the College on 3230 8600 or school@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au
if you need assistance.