Key Dates

Date	Event
September
17-20	CBSQ Seniors
19	Last Day Term 3
October
2-5	QLD All Schools Athletics Championships
6	King’s Birthday Public Holiday
7	Term 4 Commences
9	College Photos (including Sport & Yr 12)
10	Yr 10 Immunizations Yr 12 Outdoor Ed Formula High School Challenge, Lakeside Park
15	Yr 11/12 Pre-English Students’ Excursion, QPAC
17	2025 Awards Presentation Evening
20	College Advisory Council Meeting
24	Last Day of Formal Classes for Year 12 Students
27	P&F Meeting
29-31	Yr 11 Outdoor Education Camp
November
6	College Advisory Council End of Year Dinner
7	St James College Taster Day College Art Show / Alumni Evening
11	Pirlirrpa Graduation P&F End of Year Dinner
17-20	Yr 12 Rites of Passage (Refer Notices)
19	Yr 12 Gratitude Graduation Dinner, 6pm-8pm, Edmund Rice Hall
20	Yr 12 Graduation Mass, 10am-12noon, St Patrick’s Church, Fortitude Valley
21	Orientation Day
27	Last Day of Term 4
December
1-5	Staff Week
12	College Office closes

Leadership Team

Principal
Andrée Rice

We were thrilled to welcome Mr Rob Davey, Ms Amanda Martin, and members of the Brisbane Liverpool Supporters Club for the launch of the Liverpool Football Club International Academy at St James. This partnership brings together the values-driven Liverpool Way: ambition, commitment, dignity, and unity with our College values of community, dignity, inclusion and excellence. Whether students dream of playing football professionally or simply wish to develop leadership and resilience, the Academy offers a unique opportunity to grow both on and off the pitch. We’re excited for the journey ahead and grateful to Liverpool FC for choosing us—Brisbane’s only inner-city coeducational secondary school—as partners and part of the Liverpool Family.

Last week, the College proudly hosted a Meet the Neighbours event, aimed at fostering open communication and strengthening relationships with our local community. Guests were welcomed with a guided tour of the College, which provided an opportunity to showcase our facilities and share insights into the work we do. The event was well received and enjoyed by all in attendance.

As Term 3 draws to a close, I want to sincerely thank our students, families, and staff for a highly successful and positive term. Best wishes to our Year 12s as they prepare for external exams, and good luck to all involved in the CSBQ basketball competition and the upcoming Pasifika camp. Enjoy a well-deserved holiday break, stay safe, and we look forward to seeing everyone refreshed and ready for an amazing end to the year.

Deputy Principal
Kristina Johnson

As we reach the conclusion of Term 3, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the many activities, achievements, and moments of growth that have shaped this term.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all staff for their unwavering commitment and hard work throughout the term. Their dedication to supporting our Touchstones – Liberating Education where they have nurtured the academic needs of our students; Inclusive Community of supporting and encouraging engagement in co-curricular activities and supporting their wellbeing.

We also take this moment to celebrate the personal accomplishments of our staff members who have achieved outstanding milestones beyond the classroom:

- Ms Meaghan Hurley completed the Sydney Marathon, running 42km with a personal best time and an incredible performance.

- Mr Darin Coombs proudly competed in the Oceanic Athletics Masters Track and Field Championships, medalling in all three of his field events.

- Mr Jackson Shereb who has recently signed an NRL contract with the Manly Sea Eagles for the 2026 season.

- Ms Ana Fotu has been appointed as one of the coaches of the New Zealand Women’s National Rugby League Team.

As we head into the holidays, I wish all students and their families a safe, happy, and restorative break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4 on Tuesday, 7th October.

Assistant Principal – Learning, Innovation, Partnerships & Pathways
Karen Lindsey

Queensland Training Awards State Final

On Saturday 13 September, our College proudly celebrated at the Queensland Training Awards State Final. We were honoured to have two students recognised across three categories: Engy Abdalla-Gamar for both Equity Student of the Year and Vocational Student of the Year, and Jackson Vitale for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. In addition, the College itself was named a Top 3 finalist in the Small Training Provider of the Year category – the only school to achieve this distinction. While we did not take home the award, we are incredibly proud of this recognition and of the outstanding achievements of our students and staff.

Subject Selections for 2026 Year 10s

Almost all of our Year 10 students have now completed their Year 11 & 12 Subject Selections through our SET Plan process. Thank you to families for engaging in this important process. Students will be allocated to classes later this year ready for 2026.

Other Year Levels

Early in Term 4, current Year 8 and 9 students will receive information about choosing elective subjects for 2026. Information about what is studied in these subjects will be emailed to parents and carers also to assist in making decisions about preferences. Please engage in conversations with your student about their electives and return your child’s preferences in a timely manner so we can allocate students to their preferred subjects – some subject electives fill quickly.

Have a safe and happy holidays everyone!

Assistant Principal – Identity & Global Advocacy
Isikeli Kubunameca

Edmund Rice Global Youth Leadership Program 2025

Ambrose Treacy College recently played host to the Edmund Rice Global Youth Leadership Program 2025, a transformative initiative that brought together students from Edmund Rice schools across South Africa, India, Uruguay, and Australia. Held from 18 to 24 September, the program fosters a deep intercultural dialogue and leadership development through a rich tapestry of activities including spiritual reflection, cultural exchange, and service learning. We were honored to join students from Australia and other countries for the “Global Meet and Share” event at Ambrose. On the first day of the program students presented how the Edmund Rice charism is alive and well in their schools today and participated in collaborative sessions exploring global citizenship and courageous leadership. We join the group again on Monday 22 September for the second last day of the program looking at the Desmond Tutu Courageous Youth Leadership Program, which empowers young leaders to reflect on their role in shaping a more just and compassionate world.

Around the College

Year 12 Outdoor Recreation Students Complete Final Assessment Camp
Darin Coombs

This week, our Year 12 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation students successfully completed their seventh and final assessment camp, marking the culmination of their two-year journey. Throughout the program, students have excelled in developing their kayaking, hiking, and camping skills, demonstrating both resilience and teamwork.

“The Certificate II program has equipped students with valuable skills they can carry into the real world.”

During the camp, they finalised their kayaking assessments and assisted with the preparation of equipment for the upcoming Year 9 Rite Journey Camp. This included packing and checking swags, backpacks, dry bags, water containers, PFDs, and rescue gear, as well as repairing and replacing items where needed. Students also had the opportunity to prepare their final camp meal, showcasing the practical skills they have gained. The Certificate II program has equipped them with valuable experiences and transferable skills that will serve them well beyond school. We are extremely proud of their achievements and extend our thanks to Mr M Anderson and Miss Nakao for their guidance and support throughout this challenging and rewarding program.

Year 9 Rite Journey Adventure Camp
Darin Coombs

Over the past week, the Year 9 Rite Journey classes embarked on a memorable adventure camp designed to challenge their independence, resilience, and teamwork.

Students hiked with full backpacks, carrying everything needed to be self-sufficient for 24 hours. They then canoed to their campsite, where they lit their own fires and prepared their own meals. The experience culminated with a reflective solo night under the stars in swags, during which students wrote letters and considered their personal journeys.

The following day, students packed their gear and continued the expedition—canoeing across Maroon Dam before hiking back to Waterfall Creek, where the bus awaited to return them to school.

This camp provided an invaluable opportunity for personal growth. Each student rose to the challenge, demonstrating determination, resilience, and strength of character—qualities that will serve them well throughout their senior years.

A heartfelt thank you is extended to the Rite Journey teaching team, as well as to Mr M Anderson and Miss Nakao, for their commitment and support in facilitating the camp over the six days.

Mary Rice Fundraiser Supporting the Ruben Centre in Nairobi, Kenya
Sam Stocks

The Mary Rice community has once again shown its generosity through our Fill-A-Backpack initiative in support of the Ruben Centre. Thanks to the incredible contributions of students, staff, and families, we were able to collect 73 backpacks filled with essential resources, along with nearly $700 in cash donations. These gifts will make a real difference to children supported by the Ruben Centre. A special thank you must go to Ava Bradshaw, whose leadership and dedication ensured the success of this initiative. We are deeply proud of the compassion and spirit shown by our Mary Rice community.

Year 10 Food Technology
Sophie Conlon

This term, Year 10 students have been busy growing and caring for their own herb gardens while learning how to pair flavours and cook meals from scratch. They developed their creativity and teamwork in the kitchen, building confidence in creating recipes and experimenting with fresh ingredients. The term concluded with a MasterChef style mystery-box challenge, where students had just one lesson to prepare a dish using their homegrown herbs and a mystery set of ingredients. I am so proud of their inventive dishes and brilliant kitchen skills.

Year 7 Food Technology
Sophie Conlon

This term our Year 7 students explored the idea of future foods, considering what ingredients may become scarce with climate change and how trends such as plant-based eating are shaping our choices. In groups, students adapted a base recipe to reflect their chosen food trend, before cooking and presenting their creative snack. The results were impressive, and it was wonderful to see their teamwork and enthusiasm shine through.

Year 7 Visual Arts – Creating Monsters
Berenice Anzellotti

Our Year 7 students have been exploring the wonderful world of imagination through their recent Monster Project. Using their creativity, they designed both happy monsters and scary monsters, bringing their unique characters to life through drawing and planning activities.

Students began by brainstorming and sketching mock-ups of their ideas, learning how to refine their designs before moving on to their final artworks. They experimented with different ways of expressing personality and emotion through shapes, features, and details.

To complete their pieces, students worked with a variety of art media, including watercolours, posca pens, and permanent markers. This combination of materials allowed them to create bold lines, vibrant colour, and unique textures, helping each monster to take on its own personality.

The results are both fun and imaginative, showcasing the creativity, planning, and technical skills. We are proud of their efforts and look forward to sharing more exciting projects from the Visual Arts classroom.

Future Nurses Invited to CHQ NurseXperience Open Day
Antonia Lu

Students in Years 10 to 12 considering a career in nursing will have the chance to step inside the world of healthcare these school holidays, with the Children’s Health Queensland (CHQ) NurseXperience Open Day.

The event will run on Tuesday, 30 September 2025, during the second week of the holidays, at the Queensland Children’s Hospital in South Brisbane. The open day offers students a unique opportunity to explore what it’s like to work as a nurse, meet current professionals, and experience hospital life through a range of engaging activities

Highlights of the program include guided tours of the hospital’s theatre complex, CPR workshops and challenges, interactive skills sessions, and plenty of time to connect with nurses to ask questions about the profession.

The day is designed to inspire the next generation of nurses by giving students a realistic and hands-on look at the career.

Sessions will run between 10am and 12pm, with three theatre tours scheduled at 10:00am, 10:45am and 11:30am. Attendance is free, but registration is required. Please use the QR code to register. Refer to the flyer in the Notices section of the newsletter.

Work Experience - St Pauls Aged Care
Lauren Mannion

Over the last few weeks, four of our Year 11 and 12 Health students have been undertaking work experience at St Paul’s aged care home: chatting with residents, facilitating arts and crafts activities, and applying their skills in a real-world environment. The students have loved their work experience so far, and the St Paul’s staff have provided glowing reviews about our lovely, engaged, and motivated students. This has been a great insight into industry for them. We look forward to hearing how the next few weeks go before we send our next cohort of Health students over to St Paul’s!

Community Solutions Resume & Pathways Workshop
Lauren Mannion

Last week, Isabella from Community Solutions visited to chat to some of our Year 12s about apprenticeship and traineeship pathways. They completed a resume building activity, discussed interview skills, and lodged their applications for traineeships and apprenticeships across Electrical, Construction, Aged Care, and Individual Support. Isabella complimented our students on their courteousness, engagement, and initiative, stating she believes our students will go far no matter which route they choose. Student feedback included, ‘I feel confident in how to write a resume’ and ‘I loved it, Isabella was very insightful’. We wish the students all the best with their applications!

Year 11 Students Try a Wet Trade
Tony Ninasivinche

Year 11 students Haniyeh Hasani and Bibi Hadia Mahbobi recently attended the Try a Wet Trade event in Salisbury, hosted by the National Institute of Construction Skills (NICS). The program gave students hands-on experience in key trades such as tiling, plastering, and painting.

Bibi Hadia said she “learned a lot about painting different surfaces, like walls,” while Haniyeh explained, “we did tile work there, and they gave us a small space and we painted it. They taught us how to do it.” Both students valued the practical learning and insight into trade careers.

The program also highlighted pathways into apprenticeships, helping students connect today’s experiences with future opportunities. Bibi Hadia and Haniyeh have both expressed a strong interest in following up with an apprenticeship after this experience.

St James International
Kaspar Wong

Last Friday, our St James International came together for a pizza lunch celebrating our international students. It was a fantastic morning filled with laughter, connection, and stories, as staff and students recognised the hard work and accomplishments.

We also had the pleasure of introducing Ms Lisha Song (International Student Engagement and Marketing Coordinator) and Ms Vivienne Ng (Wellbeing Officer) to St James International. Both bring energy, kindness, and expertise to our team, and we are excited to welcome them into our inclusive and caring community.

Carey House Celebrate Athletics Carnival Success with Laser Tag!
Nicole Christensen

Last week, Carey House was buzzing with excitement as we celebrated our Interhouse Athletics Carnival win. To reward our students’ dedication and team spirit, we hosted a thrilling game of Laser Tag. Homeroom teams faced off, showing great teamwork, communication, and friendly competition. Laughter and cheers filled the room as students strategized and supported one another, building strong camaraderie. A sausage sizzle added to the fun, making the day even more memorable. It was a well-deserved celebration and a great way to strengthen friendships and House spirit. We’re so proud of our students—thank you to everyone who made it a success!

Yellow Dove Australia Community Swim Project
Ryan Chapman

On Monday, 15th, the St James College Catering Team kindly hosted a beautiful morning tea to celebrate the conclusion of the Yellow Dove Australia Community Swim Project.

Over the past 20 weeks, 29 of our newly arrived students have participated in an aquatic education, employment, and training program — gaining valuable skills in first aid and CPR, surf safety, aquatic awareness, and water confidence. This program not only taught safety but also encouraged students to embrace and enjoy Australia’s thriving water culture.

During the event, St James College was formally congratulated by Yellow Dove Australia and presented with a specially framed project shirt — a lasting reminder of this incredible initiative.

A heartfelt thank you to all involved for supporting our students and helping them become safer, more confident members of the community.

Blue Edge Graduation
Michael Colquhoun

After eight weeks, 16 sessions of physical fitness and engaging with Allied Health on teenage mental health and wellbeing topics, 20 dedicated Year 10 and 11 students graduated from the Blue Edge program. Students demonstrated commitment to the program, being at school by 7:00am each Tuesday and Thursday, participating and communicating with Police Officers and Youth mental health agencies. Their graduation was made extra special by the generosity of Blue Edge giving the students a free pair of shoes from Rebel Sport, Free games of Ten Pin Bowling, Lunch, Laser Tag, and a Time Zone session.

Special thanks and appreciation must go to Mr Thomann for facilitating every morning fitness session and Mr Van Lunn for always having a delicious breakfast to eat after every morning program.

Sport

World Cup Soccer
Callan Wiseman

The Senior Girls competition took place last week. The Senior Girls World Cup Tournament was a fantastic display of skill, determination, and team spirit as Africa, Tonga, Samoa, and Asia competed for the title.

Thursday’s matches set the stage for an exciting finish. Africa and Tonga went head-to-head in a fiercely contested match that pushed into extra time, with Africa eventually breaking through to secure their spot in the Grand Final. Asia followed with a commanding 5–0 win over Samoa, earning their place in Friday’s decider.

Finals Day brought plenty of drama. The 3rd/4th playoff between Tonga and Samoa ended level at full time, sending the game into golden goal. With players coming off every minute until just one remained, the atmosphere was electric. It all came down to a tense 1v1, where Samoa held their nerve and scored the winner to claim their spot on the podium.

The grand final between Africa and Asia was a thrilling showcase of soccer. Both teams created chances and tested each other in every area of the field, with the momentum shifting back and forth. Just when it looked like the match might go the distance, Africa found a breakthrough, scoring the decisive goal to seal a hard-fought 1–0 victory and take home the Senior Girls World Cup crown.

Congratulations to Africa, and well done to all teams for their sportsmanship and the excitement they brought to the tournament.

A special thank you must go out to all the staff who were involved in this fantastic tournament whether that was as a player, referee, or supporter - your efforts did not go unnoticed.

University of Queensland Winter Meet #3

Darin Coombs

A number of our students proudly competed in the final round of the University of Queensland Winter Track and Field meets last Saturday afternoon. Their commitment, determination, and consistent improvement were evident, with many producing excellent performances and showcasing the results of their hard work throughout the season. We extend our congratulations to all students who participated and acknowledge the dedication they continue to demonstrate in both training and competition. Looking ahead, this Saturday will see our athletes take part in the Queensland All Schools Pre-Meet, providing valuable preparation for the Queensland All Schools State Championships later this month.

Brian Kerle Basketball Tournament
James Anderson

Congratulations to the Open Boys Basketball Team for winning the Brian Kerle Basketball Tournament with an exciting Grand Final victory of 60-57 against BK Academy Owls. Our Open 2nd Boys Team placed fourth and our Senior Girls Team won their exhibition game. Congratulations to Mr Kirron Byrne and the basketball coaches for a well-run four-day tournament hosted at St James.

Tylah Orcher Represents St James College at Statewide School Sports Meeting

Congratulations to Tylah Orcher, Year 10, who was recently invited by Queensland Representative School Sport to deliver the Acknowledgement to Country at a two-day business meeting attended by central and regional school sport officers.

Tylah was also invited to share her personal journey through school sport, offering a heartfelt and inspiring reflection that was warmly received by all in attendance. Her contribution served as a powerful reminder of the importance of student voice and the impact of inclusive sporting pathways.

Sport Assembly

Congratulations to all students who received awards at last week’s Sports Assembly. The dedication and passion shown to your respective sports is inspiring.

Fees
Genevieve O’Sullivan

Please be advised that Term 3 fees are now OVERDUE – please note that all statements are accessible via logging in to Parent Lounge.

However, for those families on fees concessions and/or regular payment plans, please just continue your regular payments as arranged.

If you are experiencing financial hardship and would like to apply for a fees concession, please contact us for a confidential discussion and application.

2025 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.

Notices

GriffLinc, the Griffith University ‘Literacy in Context’ research group, is hosting a free, online seminar for parents - supporting your teenage reader on Wednesday 15 October 2025 from 5pm-6pm. Click here to RSVP

Reminder for families

Please ensure your contact details are up to date on Parent Lounge or contact the College if you need assistance.