Key Dates

Leadership Team

Principal
Andrée Rice

One of St James' most important strategic priorities is to embed a pedagogy (or teaching methodology) centered around better preparing our students for the future. To do this, we entered a partnership with the University of Qld's Critical Thinking Project Team in Term 1, 2025 and since then, we have been incredibly fortunate to have Dr Yael Leibovitch working alongside our staff. Yael is a dynamo - a passionate, inspiring and totally switched on teacher-educator!

Yael's work has focused on upskilling teachers so we know how to more effectively engage students. As Anderson and Winthrop tell us, "more than just grit or willpower, engagement is a complex interplay of emotions, thoughts, and behaviours that ignite a deep, genuine interest in the world around us." Thinking signifies engagement and critical thinking is best done collaboratively.

To this end, our work has concentrated on teaching teachers how to structure learning activities so that we incite engagement, create collaborative opportunities, and enable students to reflect on themselves as learners.

Your children might have mentioned seeing College Leadership Team members present in some lessons this term. It has been such a joy and privilege watching our teachers hard at work to change the culture of thinking in their classrooms. It's been just as wonderful to see our students learning to engage in accountable talk and developing their understanding and use of cognitive verbs such as explain, analyse, justify and evaluate.

Alongside these key focus areas for this semester, we have been working hard on consistent classroom routines such as lining up before entering the classroom, putting tech (laptops) away until required by the teachers and waiting to be dismissed by the teacher and not the bell. Our classrooms have become calmer and more organised with clear, consistent expectations understood by everyone.

Some comments from our students around this change of pedagogy are:

"I just like it when we're not just on our computers or writing things down in our books. I like it when we're working as a class, even if we're writing things down in a group on the whiteboards ... [you] see other people's perspectives that maybe you didn't think of and maybe you can help them with their things."

"I guess I want to let them [the school] know that the teachers are [a] big impact on the class. That's one of the main things—teachers and how they work with the class...They’re the heart of a class. They’re what sets the mood, what breaks the mood...You have to show them respect and they give you respect back.”

One of the mentor teachers involved offered this significant comment on the effect of the change in pedagogy:

"It has had a huge impact on the way I teach and create my lesson plans. I am critically thinking myself about what the outcome is for the students and how to allow that to happen in my planning."

Thanks must go to Dr Yael Leibovitch, Mr Peter Barber, Ms Karen Lindsey, Ms Ariel Chen, Mr Xavier O'Halloran, Mr Chris Maher, Ms Corrie Shand and Mr Tim Spina for their leadership of Teaching For Thinking in 2026 and a huge congratulations to the wonderful teachers of St James for embracing a new, challenging and powerful way of teaching that's having demonstrable outcomes for our young people.

Assistant Principal - Students
Kaitlyn Downey

From Monday 25 May to Wednesday 27 May, our brave Year 7 cohort travelled to Luther Heights Youth Camp at Coolum Beach for three days filled with adventure, reflection and team-building activities. Despite having to brave periods of rainy weather and muddy conditions, the Year 7 students demonstrated outstanding determination, resilience and a willingness to support one another throughout the camp experience. Staff were incredibly proud of the way students represented the College, showing respect, enthusiasm and perseverance throughout the experience. Well done Year 7!

Around the College

National Reconciliation Week 2026

Krystal Beazley

Theme: All In | Dates: 27 May – 3 June (same dates annually) | Celebrating: 1 – 5 June

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) invites all Australians to pause, learn and reflect on the stories that shape our shared identity. It is a time to acknowledge our history, celebrate the richness of our cultures and consider how each of us can contribute to a future built on respect and understanding.

In education, NRW highlights the power of learning to drive meaningful change. It encourages schools and communities to explore our collective past with honesty, value the diverse voices that make up Australia and create learning environments where curiosity, empathy and inclusion thrive. It reminds us that even small actions can strengthen relationships and support a more connected future.

This year’s theme, “All In,” shared by First Nations Ambassador Amira Ahmat, calls us to show up wholeheartedly. Being “All In” means being present, listening deeply and committing to action not only when it is easy, but when it truly matters.

At St James, “All In” reflects our commitment to supporting one another, learning from the stories and cultures around us and taking responsibility for the community we are building together. Everyone has a role, everyone has a voice and everyone contributes to reconciliation in their own way. Reconciliation is not the work of a few; it is something we achieve together.

A weekly schedule of cultural activities for #NRW26 can be found in the Notices Section of the Newsletter, and a full guide of key dates and resources is available here: Key Dates of Cultural Significance (#NRW26)

Photo credit: First Nations Ambassador Amira Ahmat delivering the Acknowledgement of Country and a reflection at the whole‑school assembly on 13 May 2026.

Celebrating National Simultaneous Story Time in our Library
Sarah Mouritz

This week, our Library proudly participated in National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS), joining more than 2 million students at over 21,000 locations across Australia in this wonderful celebration of reading and literacy. Our Year 5, 6 and 7 students enjoyed the story of Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller by Adam Jackson, Adrian Lloyd and Jake A. Minton.

Students followed Luna’s journey as she stepped up to lead FC Outback in a thrilling soccer match against Bush United. Along the way, Luna learns to overcome self-doubt, trust her teammates and believe in her abilities. As the first book in the Animal World Cup series, this exciting underdog story highlights courage, perseverance and determination. Thank you to our Year 5, 6 and 7 students and teachers for participating in this great event.

Premier's Reading Challenge
Sarah Mouritz

St James College is also excited to be participating in the Queensland Premier’s Reading Challenge again this year. Nomination forms are available in the library, all students need to do is to read any book that they choose and record them. The more books you read, the more prizes are you eligible for! Prizes include, fruit, book vouchers and chocolate! The challenge is a fantastic opportunity to build reading habits, discover new books and celebrate a love of reading across St James. Please see our friendly library staff for more information and to sign up!

Food Technology Department Update
Peter Van Lunn, Sophie Conlon and Shell Sparks

Our Senior students recently recreated a beautiful tablescape for Open Day, inspired by the upcoming Gratitude Lunch that Year 10 will host in Term 4. Visitors also enjoyed a “decorate your own cupcake station”, showcasing the creative opportunities available to our Junior students.

Year 10 Bake Sale Project
Year 10 students are working in teams to plan and deliver an industry standard bake sale supporting a charity of their choice. Throughout the project, they are building essential entrepreneurial skills such as recipe scaling, food science, hygiene and safety, branding, costing, teamwork, conflict resolution, and recipe testing.

Students have already produced a range of trial items, including melting moments, salted caramel tarts, and brookies. In the coming weeks, they will begin taking orders before baking, packaging, and delivering their products to peers and staff.

St James Students Represent College at Youth Parliament
Jordan Shultz and Charvez Henrae

Year 12 Legal Studies students, Qassim Imran and Gabriel Gonzalez, recently represented the College at the Brisbane Youth Parliament. Taking on the role of representatives, the students participated in a mock parliamentary session alongside 260 students from across Queensland as they debated this year’s proposed Bill to lower the voting age to 16. They discussed real issues on the topics they selected which included reducing school starting time and problems with residential care. They experienced how laws and topics are discussed and decided in a parliamentary setting.

Jordan Shultz and Charvez Henrae also attended the Youth Parliament, where they observed the proceedings and took on the role of journalists for the day, reporting back on the experience to the school community.

The day provided a valuable opportunity to develop public speaking, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the legal and political system in Queensland. It also allowed students to build confidence while sharing their ideas in a formal environment. We congratulate the students on the way they represented St James College and thank Mr Flint and Miss Coburn for supporting this learning experience.

St James College Student Achieves Success in University Head Start Course
Tony Ninasivinche

Year 12 student Tatum Humann has successfully completed the Australian Catholic University (ACU) Uni Step-Up program, celebrating her achievement at a completion ceremony attended by her mother and brother. Tatum excelled throughout the program, achieving the highest grade in both university units completed as part of the course.

Through the program, Tatum will receive four QCE points, with credits expected to be added later this year. She will also be eligible for an early university offer into a related degree pathway should she choose to continue her studies at ACU.

This outstanding achievement highlights Tatum’s dedication, academic ability, and commitment to extending herself beyond the classroom. St James College congratulates Tatum on her exceptional success.

Health Sciences Taster Day
Tony Ninasivinche

Year 10 students recently attended a Health Sciences Taster Day alongside our Year 12 Certificate III Health Services students at the Australian Catholic University. During the day, students took part in practical sessions across Occupational Therapy, Nursing, and Paramedicine. They also toured specialist learning spaces and spoke with university staff about study and career pathways in the health sector. The experience gave students a better understanding of the different areas within healthcare and what future study could look like. Thank you to Ms Liu and Mr Hunter for supporting students throughout the day. Our students represented St James College well, showing curiosity and leaving a great impression.

Career Education and Pathway Planning with Year 10 and 11 Students
Tony Ninasivinche

St James College continues to strengthen career education and pathway planning across the College. Year 10 students recently commenced their SET Plan sessions with their SET Plan coaches, reflecting on their strengths, interests and future goals. Students will meet with their SET Plan coaches every Tuesday for the remainder of the term.

Year 11 students also attended a VET learning panel discussion featuring students currently completing external study, traineeships and apprenticeships. William Waqa shared his experience completing a Certificate II in Electrotechnology, while Zanetta Okoduwa spoke about studying Certificate II in Cookery through TAFE. Students also heard from Lennox Vitale (Business), Sophie Hill (Early Childhood Education & Care), Mathayus Perelini (Barbering) and Year 12 alumni Ethan Murray, who returned to share his pathway into a Heavy Diesel apprenticeship. Special thanks to Ethan for coming back to speak with our students.

Certificate II in Health Support Service Incursion
Antonia Liu

On 13 May 2026, the Year 11 Certificate II in Health Support Services students participated in their second incursion for the year with our health expert from Connect n Grow. Throughout the session, students focused on strengthening their communication skills within the health and community services industry.

Students discussed how to communicate effectively with a range of people, collaborate professionally with colleagues, address possible barriers to communication, report concerns to supervisors, and complete workplace correspondence and documentation. They also learnt how effective communication contributes to continuous improvement within health care settings.

Students participated in a number of engaging role plays which placed them in the position of both clients and health practitioners working together. These practical activities gave students valuable insight into the importance of teamwork, empathy, and clear communication in the health industry.

Certificate III in Fitness Incursion
Antonia Liu

On 13 and 15 May 2026, the Certificate III Fitness students participated in a First Aid and CPR incursion. Throughout the sessions, students developed essential practical skills required to respond confidently and effectively in emergency situations within the fitness industry.

Students learnt the importance of First Aid and CPR in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of clients, staff, and gym members. Through hands-on activities and scenarios, students practised CPR techniques, responding to emergencies, and understanding their role in providing immediate care when needed.

The incursion provided students with valuable real-world skills that are essential for working within the health and fitness industry.

Year 11 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation Assessment Camp
Darin Coombs

Our Year 11 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation students recently completed a challenging and rewarding assessment camp that tested their teamwork, resilience, leadership, and navigation skills in real-world outdoor conditions.

The camp began with an impressive 8-kilometre paddle at Maroon Dam. Students paddled across the dam, followed the waterways to the beginning of Burnett Creek, and successfully navigated through the creek system before returning out into the open dam waters. Throughout the activity, students demonstrated excellent communication, teamwork, and water safety skills while working together to complete the journey.

Students then undertook a demanding 12-kilometre hike with full backpacks and supplies along the Lilybrook Recreation Western Trail. As the afternoon turned into evening, students participated in a night navigation assessment where they were required to use GPS devices, maps, and even the stars to successfully navigate through the course in low-light conditions.

Across the day and evening activities, students covered approximately 20 kilometres before arriving back at camp at 8:30pm after nearly 10 hours of paddling and hiking. Despite the physical and mental challenges, the students displayed outstanding resilience, determination, and leadership throughout the entire experience.

The camp provided an excellent opportunity for students to apply the practical skills they have been developing in class while also strengthening their confidence, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork in the outdoors. Congratulations to all students involved for the positive attitude and perseverance they showed during the camp.

2026 Kokoda Challenge
Sarah Mouritz

As the day of the big event approaches, our Kokoda Challenge teams now have just one final training session remaining before the event on 13 June 2026. Last week, our 18km teams completed a 15km hike through Enoggera, showing they are ready and raring to take on the challenge ahead.

Meanwhile, our 48km team tackled their toughest training hike yet, a gruelling 29km trek through Enoggera featuring plenty of bush bashing, steep elevation and even a python spotted along the way. The team demonstrated incredible resilience, determination and teamwork throughout the hike, finishing with a well-deserved sandwich (thanks to Mr Damico!) and Zooper Dooper at the end.

Bring on the final hike and the big event ahead!

Sport

Basketball

Breanna Irwin
St James College proudly hosted Hillcrest Christian College for another exciting round of Big 6 Basketball, with all teams showing outstanding effort, teamwork, and school spirit throughout the day.

Our Junior Girls were dominant, securing a huge 77-29 victory, while the Senior Girls continued their strong form with a fantastic 51-35 win. The Senior Boys fought hard in a thrilling contest to come away with a 74-69 victory. The Junior Boys showed great determination against a strong Hillcrest side, going down 67-89.

A massive congratulations to all players and coaches involved on a great day of basketball for St James College!

Football & Futsal

Michael Anderson

Sahr Thomas – Football
Met East 16-19yrs Boys | Queensland State Championships
Huge Congratulations to Year 12 Student Sahe Thomas, Captain of our Senior Boys First XI Football Team, who became a State Champion over the weekend. Sahr won Gold as he presented Met East at the 16-19yrs Boys Football State Championships.

Girls ISSA Cup
On Monday 18 May our Junior Girls Footballers made their first ever appearance in the ISSA Cup. Coming up against All Hallows School, it was always going to be a tough match. However, our Jimmies Girls weren’t phased as they came flying out the blocks with a determined first half performance, keeping the scores level at half time. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be our day as All Hallows went on to score a few goals in the second half against a tiring St James defence.

U12s & U16s Queensland School Futsal SFL
Our U12s & 16s Boys and Girls Futsal teams took to the court last Thursday in the second matchday of this year’s School Futsal League. All teams put in their all on the day some with spirited performances on show from all players. It was great to see the early morning efforts on the training court are paying off. However, a highlight from the day must be our Girls Teams as they both went through the day undefeated. Huge result from our Girls Futsal Program!

Boys ISSA Cup
In Round 2 of the Boys ISSA Cup our Jimmies Boys were up against last year’s champions Corinda State High School. We knew it was never going to be easy and this showed as the boys started off strong with spells of possession and defending our goal with all they had. Unfortunately, Corinda continued to pile on the pressure into the second half and managed to score a few goals which led to them taking home all 3 points. Although the result wasn’t what we were after, it was a highly spirited performance from our Junior Boys as they kept going right to the final whistle.

Boys Uhlsport Cup
Our Senior Boys Footballers looked to continue their momentum from last holiday’s EREA Football Tournament as they took on Aspley State High School in Round 1 of this year’s Uhlsport Cup. Coming up against a Football Excellence school was never going to be an easy feat. However, our Senior Boys rose to the challenge and displayed a true St James never say die attitude! Although going into the half time break 1-0 down, our boys came out firing in the second half and got their well-deserved equaliser from a wonderful Sahr Thomas header. As the game looked as if it would peter out into a fair 1-1 draw, Aspley were awarded a last-minute penalty which saw them take the lead in the dying stages and leave our St James Footballers empty handed after an unbelievable performance.

Queensland School Futsal League (Opens League 1 Finals Day)
Our Opens Boys & Girls League 1 Futsal sides qualified for the Opens SFL Shield Finals Day which was held earlier this week at Nissan Arena. Both teams had a great day, putting in some outstanding performances. It was great to see the hard work on the training court pay off as our Senior Futsal Students tested themselves against some top-quality opposition. Both teams should be extremely proud of their efforts as they definitely did the St James College community and themselves proud. Our Open Girls finished in 5th place and our Open Boys ended up finishing the day in 6th place. Although this concludes the Open Boys Futsal season, our Open Girls will continue to put in the hard work on the training court as they prepare for the Met East Football Queensland Futsal School Championships later this term.

Met East Regional Cross Country Carnival
James Anderson
This year, our school is bursting with pride as 12 talented students from St James College represented the Central Sharks District at the prestigious Met East Regional Cross Country Carnival at John Paul College. The event brought together the best young runners from across the region, and our students made a remarkable impact with their dedication and outstanding performances.

Out of the 12 competitors, four students celebrated incredible victories by finishing in 1st place in their respective races. Their hard work and determination truly paid off, showcasing the strength and spirit of St James College. Additionally, three students secured second place, demonstrating consistent excellence and resilience throughout the competition. One of our students even achieved third place, adding to our school's impressive tally.

Thanks to their excellent results, a total of eight out of the twelve runners have qualified for the upcoming Met East Team. This is a fantastic achievement and highlights the exceptional talent and commitment of our students. Their success not only brings pride to our school but also inspires others to push their limits and strive for greatness.

Congratulations to all the students who competed, and best of luck to those moving forward to represent the Met East team. Your hard work and sportsmanship make us all proud!

Netball

Sean Choromanski and Tia Parker
The recent QC Cup Netball competition at Downey Park was a fantastic showcase of talent, teamwork and school spirit, with St James College proudly represented by four teams across the Junior Boys, Junior Girls, Senior Boys and Senior Girls divisions.

Our students competed with great determination and sportsmanship throughout the tournament, consistently displaying outstanding effort and pride in the College. A highlight of the event was the success of our Senior teams, with St James College taking home both the Senior Girls Trophy and the Senior Boys Trophy after excellent performances across the day.

Congratulations to all players and staff involved in a successful competition. Every student represented St James College with pride and professionalism both on and off the court.

Water Polo Queensland State Championships
Dylan McDonald
Congratulations to Year 11 student Joseph Duggan on his outstanding achievement at the recent Metropolitan East championships. Representing the Met East team with pride and determination, Joseph played an important role throughout the competition as the team finished runners-up after an incredibly close grand final, going down by just one goal.

One of the standout moments of the carnival came during the semifinal, where Joseph delivered a dominant performance by scoring four goals and helping guide Met East into the championship decider. His skill, composure, and attacking ability were on full display and proved instrumental in the team’s success throughout the tournament.

Joseph’s exceptional performances across the championships were recognised with selection in the Queensland Schoolboys Team. This is a tremendous honour and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and commitment he has shown to his sport. Joseph will now travel to Woy Woy later in the year to represent Queensland against the best schoolboy players from around the country.

The St James College community congratulates Joseph on this fantastic accomplishment and wishes him all the best as he prepares to represent Queensland at the national level.

Rugby League Excellence Program

Blake Henley
It has been another positive week for our Rugby League Excellence teams, with strong performances, continued development, and exciting fixtures ahead.

7/8 Girls – Gala Day Success
Our 7/8 Girls team competed in a Gala Day Carnival and produced outstanding performances, recording convincing wins against Ipswich State High School and Marymount College. The girls demonstrated excellent teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the day. This is a strong and talented age group with significant potential, and we are proud of how they represented St James College on and off the field. Congratulations to Amaia Taylor for taking out the MVP player against Marymount.

The Girls were lucky enough to get a team photo holding the Women’s State of Origin Shield that was on display during the day.

9/10 Girls – Campaign Continues
The 9/10 Girls were unfortunately unable to take the field this week, with their scheduled match against Palm Beach washed out due to weather conditions. Despite the interruption, the group remains focused and ready to continue their campaign, using the time to prepare and stay connected to their goals. They play Mabel Park on Wednesday 27.

9/10 Boys B – Titans Cup Opener
The 9/10 Boys B side kicked off their Titans Cup season in impressive fashion, securing a strong opening victory over Ormeau College. The team showed great discipline, positive energy, and a commitment to playing for each other, an excellent foundation to build on as the season progresses.

Senior First XIII & 10A Boys – Season Kick-Off Ahead
Our Senior First XIII Boys and 10A Boys will begin their Gee Cup and DeVere Cup campaigns next week, with both teams heading away to face Beenleigh. Preparation has been strong, and the boys are looking forward to the challenge of representing the College in these prestigious competitions.

Representative Honour – James Peni
We would also like to congratulate James Peni on his selection in the Queensland Schoolboys Maroon side. This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to James’ commitment, resilience, and consistent effort across both his rugby league and school responsibilities. James continues to represent St James College, his family, and the broader school community with humility and pride, and we wish him all the best as he takes on this next challenge at representative level.

We congratulate all students for their efforts and thank families for their ongoing support. As always, our focus remains on learning, wellbeing, and pride in wearing the St James College jersey.

Keeping Your Family and Student Information Up to Date

Gabrielle Johnston

Parents and Guardians,

We kindly ask that you keep the College informed of any changes to your family or student’s contact details or circumstances. Having accurate and up‑to‑date information is essential for several important reasons:

• Duty of Care: To support your child’s wellbeing and educational pathway, we must have current details relating to medical needs, learning support, living arrangements, court orders, parenting agreements etc.
• Emergency Situations: In the event of an emergency, it is vital that we can reach the correct parent/carer and/or nominated emergency contact without delay.
• Government Reporting Requirements: Schools are required to provide accurate information for State and Federal Government census reporting, as well as to governing bodies such as Edmond Rice Education Australia (EREA) and Catholic Education Queensland Limited (CEQL). This includes address details, visa and residency status, and other relevant data.

Please take the time to check your Parent Lounge dashboard and ensure all contact details are current. For all other updates, please email studentservices@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au and provide any relevant supporting documentation (e.g. new visa or residency documents, court orders etc.)

Your cooperation ensures we can provide the highest level of care and meet our legal obligations. Thank you for your ongoing support.

FEES

Genevieve O’Sullivan
Please be advised that all fees are now OVERDUE – unless you are on a regular payment plan via Direct Debit, BPAY or CentrePay, or have an approved plan in place with us. If so, please just continue your regular payments.

To check your current balance, or access your statements, please log in to Parent Lounge and click on the Accounts & Payments tab at the top of the page.

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.