Key Dates

Leadership Team

Principal
Andrée Rice

Dear St James Community,

As we come to the close of what has truly been a remarkable Year of Gratitude, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you in our community. It's the unwavering support from our parents and families that has made this year so special. Thank you for walking beside us, and for your unwavering commitment to our shared vision.

To our dedicated staff, your tireless efforts in nurturing and guiding our students have been instrumental in making this year an outstanding success. Your passion and dedication have truly shone through, and we are immensely grateful for your contributions.

One of the highlights of the past year was undoubtedly the Year 12 Rite of Passage week. Our students exhibited exceptional behaviour throughout, and the week was filled with memorable moments, including a day of service to community organisations, a parent-hosted thank you dinner, and an emotional graduation ceremony where the youngest member of our school community opened the door for the oldest student graduating!

We are thrilled to see our numbers continue to grow this year, allowing us to improve our facilities and expand our curricular, pathways, and co-curricular activities. With this growth comes the need to adapt, and I would like to draw your attention to the Deputy Principal's section of the newsletter regarding our new timetable. Please note that Lesson 1 will now start the school day, followed by Homeroom. Thank you for your support in helping us achieve higher rates of arriving on time and overall attendance and engagement in learning. We are confident this significant decision will help our students’ learning outcomes and overall wellbeing and connection to their Homeroom.

As we look forward to 2026 we are excited to welcome Ms Kaitlyn Downey from Waverley College NSW into a newly created role of Assistant Principal Students, Registrar Ms Gabrielle Johnston, and Marketing, Communications, and Community Engagement Manager Ms Jodie O'Sullivan to the St James family. We also extend our gratitude to Ms Cat McAllister for her outstanding leadership of Carey House, and to Ms Neha Reddy for her wonderful role as Director of Student Wellbeing. Both these wonderful educators are moving into other roles next year and we wish them all the best. Congratulations to Ms Lisa Kubunameca on her appointment as the new Director of Student Wellbeing.

In closing, may the joy and blessings of the Christmas season be with you and your loved ones. Thank you once again for an incredible year, stay safe over the break and we look forward to welcoming you back in the New Year.

Deputy Principal
Kristina Johnson

As we reach the end of another remarkable school year, congratulations to all students. Your hard work, resilience, and commitment to learning have shone through, and you should feel incredibly proud of all you have achieved. To our dedicated staff—thank you for another successful year filled with growth, community, celebrations, and achievements. Your professionalism and care continue to shape our diverse, vibrant and supportive school environment.

We would also like to remind families of two important updates. First, the new timetable structure coming into effect in 2026, with more detailed information to be shared throughout next year. Second, the social media ban commencing on 5 December, which, alongside our existing phone policy, means students must be prepared not to access their phones during the school day, particularly during class time. We appreciate your support as we continue to promote focused, healthy, and positive learning environments.

Wishing all students, families, and staff a very blessed and Merry Christmas and a happy, safe, and refreshing holiday break. We look forward to welcoming you back in the new year!

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

Examinations and Assessment Wrap-up for 2025

The Term 4 Assessment period wrapped up with a very successful week-long exam block for Year 11s. Importantly, these exams were the first “Year 12 Internal Assessments” which will count towards their final Year 12 results. The exam block therefore gave them the opportunity to have a similar experience to the External Examinations for General subjects at the end of next year. It was excellent to see students arrive on time, in uniform, with the required materials and applying themselves diligently to their assessments.

Our students in Years 5-10 have also finished the term well across curriculum areas. Well done to all students! I wish you a restful holiday break.

Report Cards

Semester 2 Report cards will be emailed to families of students in Years 5-11 by mid-December. A notice will be sent out on the app at the same time; families can access report cards via the Parent Lounge App. Please note that results listed for Year 11 students in General subjects—that is, subjects that count towards an ATAR score—will reflect their first Internal Assessment for Year 12. These form an important indicator of how students are tracking and early in 2026, our Director of Learning, Ms Corrie Shand, will begin mentoring conversations with students at risk in any of their subjects.

Assistant Principal – Identity & Global Advocacy
Isikeli Kubunameca

Gratitude Graduation Dinner: A Rite of Passage for Year 12’s

Celebrating the Year of Gratitude

This year’s Inaugural Gratitude Graduation Dinner marked an important rite of passage for our Year 12 students. Hosted by their parents, the evening was a heartfelt celebration of their achievement and the spirit of thankfulness that defined the Year of Gratitude. Families and students came together to honor growth, connection, and the support that shaped their journeys. Supported by our 2026 leaders, this year’s inaugural graduation gratitude dinner was a success. The evening began with a musical item performed by 2026 Vice Captain Esther Silao and Hogan House Leader for 2025, accompanied by staff members and their uncles – Mr Mathew Sialo and Mr George Waqairagata. Students and parents gifted teachers with lolly leis and gifts to show their appreciation. The evening finished with the students being presented with their Alumni Ties and Scarves to be worn the following day at their Graduation Liturgy.

The Year of Gratitude: A Reflection

Over the past twelve months, our community embraced this year’s theme of Gratitude—focusing on gratitude for family, friends, health, and growth. Homeroom activities, College events and daily prayers, service projects, and creative activities encouraged everyone to practice thankfulness. As we move into the season of Advent, we remember and give thanks and are grateful for the gift of Christ, our families and friends. Praying the grace of God is with you all and that you have a happy, safe and rejuvenating break.

Assistant Principal – Equity & Student Engagement
Nick Hurley

Matt Gillett Cup- Rugby League

Congratulations again to all players and support staff who were part of the Matt Gillett Cup Competition at Mt Maria College on November 13 and 14.

St James was awarded Champion School of the Tournament after winning the Junior Girls and Boys Grand Finals, as well as the Senior Girls Grand Final. Our Senior Boys lost their semi-final by one point to the eventual winners.

Our Rugby League Excellence Program is already providing much success, not only through our results on the field, but also the culture being built by the boys and girls who are part of this inaugural program.

Congratulations to our Rugby League Coordinator - Blake Henley and coaching staff who lead the way in promoting the expectations around this excellence culture.

Year 9 and Year 6 Rite of Passage Ceremonies

Two weeks ago, our Year 9 and Year 6 students celebrated Right of Passage milestones with family, staff and peers.

Our Year 9 students were recognized for finishing their Middle School journey and beginning their Senior Phase of schooling, while our Year 6 students were acknowledged for the completion of their Primary School education.

Both celebrations were extremely well attended by families and I thank our staff and students for their wholehearted participation throughout each event. I hope all students hang their Rite of Passage certificates in places of importance inside their homes, so as to recognize their hard work and commitment throughout the last few years.

I particularly thank our wonderful, award-winning school choir for providing three beautiful hymns throughout each liturgy and their teachers- Ms McCarthy, Chelsea, Brodie and George and our catering staff including Mr Van Lunn, Mr Watve and Ms Sparks for the wonderful food at the conclusion of each event.

Year 6 Transition Morning

Last Friday during Session 2, our Year 6 students were given the opportunity to listen to our Middle School Director- Mr Tim Spina, as well as our St James Head of Faculties, deliver some wonderful advice and general information regarding Year 7 in 2026.

Each school leader was able to provide general tips and important advice to help each student as they enter the next stage of their schooling. Much of the advice centered around being organized and prepared for lessons, familiarization with new classroom locations and ensuring every student felt comfortable asking questions, to enhance their learning journey throughout 2026.

Liverpool FC Community Football Session on Saturday, 29 November
(Delivered by our Liverpool FC International Academy Accredited Coaching Team)

Whether your family has already expressed interest in the 2026 program or you’re simply curious to experience world-class coaching for the first time, this free community session is the perfect way to kick off the holidays together.

The details are:
Venue: New Farm United Soccer Club, Corner of Sydney and Brunswick Streets, New Farm
Date: Saturday, 29 November 2025
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Lunch: Free sausage sizzle lunch provided

The morning is open to all ages and all abilities – FREE to attend – bring a friend!

Participants will enjoy fun and engaging skills sessions, drills, and small-sided games, all grounded in the Liverpool values of Unity, Commitment, Dignity and Ambition.

Around the College

Year 5/6 Debating
Suzanne Devonshire

After four tough debates, Year 5/6 Debating has wrapped up for the year. Our fierce debaters have tackled topics like "you should be banned from extracurricular activities if you fail your subjects" and "all school students should have to do an exchange with a rural school." They were up against Year 6 students from other schools – a particularly impressive feat, considering that half of the Jimmies team was made up of Year 5 students.

Here's what some of the students had to say about debating:

Maria: It’s fun and it helps you with confidence. You get to make new friends from other grades. It helps you speak in a smart way. It made me happy!

Pritika: I liked how we learned to argue, it’s like politely fighting. I want to do it next year.

A special thanks to Mr Ryan Mamauag for his coaching. Looking forward to another successful debating season in 2026!

Exciting news for St James College!
Michael Harrop

We are delighted to announce that Ambrose Hall (Year 8) has earned a place in the Australian Girls Choir Senior. This is an outstanding achievement, as entry into this prestigious ensemble involves multiple auditions and a highly competitive selection process.

The entire St James College community is incredibly proud of Ambrose’s accomplishment. We look forward to 2026, when we will have the privilege of seeing her perform on stage as part of this exceptional national choir.

The Expressive Arts – Music, Drama, Visual Arts and Dance
Michael Harrop

What a fantastic term, semester, and year we have enjoyed in the Expressive Arts! With the introduction of Drama for 2025, our Arts participation has grown by an incredible one-third—a wonderful reflection of our students’ enthusiasm and creativity

This year has been filled with rich learning experiences. Students visited the Art Gallery on multiple occasions, attended musicals and plays at QPAC, and participated in exciting incursions, including workshops with the Bell Shakespeare Company and our always-popular RAKU firing sessions.

Within the school, creativity has been thriving. Our annual Art Show proudly displayed the exceptional work of our Visual Arts students, while each term concluded with our much-loved soirees—special opportunities for students to sing, dance, and showcase their musical talents. Every assembly has also featured outstanding performances that highlight the breadth of artistic skill across our school.

Our choir has shone particularly brightly this year. They achieved a Gold Award at the Queensland Catholic Schools Music Festival and performed in the foyer of the Missy Higgins concert, along with a number of other events throughout the year. Their dedication and teamwork have been truly inspiring.

It has been a full and rewarding year for the Arts, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to our hardworking staff for their passion and commitment. We are already looking forward to building on this momentum in 2026.

Have a wonderful and restful break—we can’t wait to see you at many of next year’s exciting Arts events!

Students Explore Allied Health Careers at Logan Healthy Living Open Day
Antonia Lu

On Tuesday 28 October, students had the opportunity to attend the Logan Healthy Living (LHL) Allied Health Open Day—an immersive and interactive event designed to introduce young people to the diverse world of allied health careers. The excursion allowed students to directly speak to different health professionals and gain a deeper understanding of the vital roles they play in supporting community health.

The focus of the day centred on understanding how allied health practitioners support clients living with type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions. Students learned about the collaborative efforts of exercise physiologists, physiotherapists, dietitians, psychologists, and diabetes educators, each of whom contributes uniquely to improving patient outcomes. Students explored how lifestyle, movement, nutrition, mental wellbeing, and education all intersect in chronic disease management.

The experience not only broadened the students’ awareness of potential career pathways within the health sector but also highlighted the importance of preventative health care and multidisciplinary teamwork.

A huge thank you goes to Kat Murray from CheckUP for organising and coordinating this valuable opportunity. Her efforts ensured students were able to connect meaningfully with industry professionals and gain insights that will support their academic and career journeys.

Students Gain First-Hand Insight Into Hospital Careers During RBWH Excursion and Placement
Antonia Lu

Eleven senior students recently completed a three-day administrative placement at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH), gaining invaluable hands-on experience across a wide range of departments. Working alongside experienced staff, students were immersed in the daily operations of hospital administration, supporting teams within Cancer Care, Internal Medicine, Patient Flow, Critical Care Services, Surgery and Perioperative Services, Allied Health, Admissions, and Women’s and Newborns. They also had the unique opportunity to assist in the hospital switch room and mailing services, broadening their understanding of the essential systems that keep a major hospital functioning.

In addition to the placement program, nine students took part in a guided tour of RBWH the following week. The excursion offered a behind-the-scenes look at key departments, allowing students to observe how different areas work together to support patient care. Highlights included visits to Administration, Emergency, Surgery and Perioperative Services, Admissions, Women’s and Newborns, Cancer Care, Internal Medicine, Patient Flow, and Critical Care.

Both experiences provided students with a clearer picture of the diverse entry-level opportunities available within hospital administration. For many, the placement and tour strengthened their interest in pursuing a career in the healthcare sector, whether through immediate employment or further study. Some of the Year 12 students will now begin the interviewing stage for potential admin roles, and we wish them all the very best as they take these exciting next steps toward their future careers.

A huge thank you goes to Anamaria Tongia and Taegan Hall from Metro North for their dedication and hard work behind the scenes. Their support made this meaningful and memorable experience possible for our students.

Graduation
Sue Cameron

We applaud the determination, courage, and remarkable growth demonstrated by our Year 12 students from refugee backgrounds. In just a short time, they have made astonishing progress, mastering new language skills while shaping pathways toward bright futures. Their tenacity has carried them through many challenges over the past two years, and their commitment to creating meaningful careers is inspiring. Each student’s journey is unique, yet all share a powerful drive to succeed. Each year, we feel a surge of pride and delight when we see our students walk across the graduation stage—the true culmination of their hard work, resilience, and unwavering belief in what lies ahead. Congratulations to our students and to their remarkable parents, who have supported them tirelessly throughout their journey.

Legacy Poles

In their final weeks, our senior leaders have also left their mark; by working with their House Deans to create a pole design on the theme of legacy. These designs are being installed on House poles which are located outside the Tom Carey building.

Christmas Makers Stall

To celebrate the end of year, some of our very talented artists and crafters also created a Christmas gift stall, selling crochet, beading and other jewellery, alongside traditional foods. Our junior boys also coordinated a barbecue stall to raise funds for our equine partners, Reason to Thrive.

Congratulations to all our students for their impressive creative, fundraising efforts.

Library News
Carolyn Whyatt
Summer Holiday Reading – grow your mind and relax
Use our College subscription to ePlatform – Bringing eBooks, Audiobooks & Decodable Readers to Students Wherever They Are
ePlatform Login - Find Your Library - Use the Login for Middle school if in 2025 you were in Yr 5, 6, 7
Use the Senior School if in Yr 8, 9, 10, 11
- Username – your school email address
- Password – stjames
*need help email - cwhyatt@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au Over the summer vacation I will check each Monday for ePlatform help requests

BEE a reader – first choose your favourite reading formats –printed books, audiobooks, digital books, and informative video content
Start with a simple commitment to having a regular reading routine - just 8-12 minutes, 3 times a week – CAN YOU DO IT!
The benefits -
- Reading fiction supports self-discovery and exploring different identities in a safe, imagined space.
- Reading helps us gain insight into the lives of others.
- Reading gives us self-awareness and empathy
"Through books, A READER lives a thousand lives". “Through books, A READER can access the great knowledge of the world.”
These holidays visit a local library, a bookstore, a charity bookstore or read online with ePlatform

Pirlirrpa End-of-Year Excursion: Snorkelling at Tangalooma!
Erin Shetty

What an incredible way to finish the school year! Our Pirlirrpa students celebrated their hard work, resilience, and achievements with a stunning end-of-year excursion to Tangalooma Island Resort. Students spent the day exploring the crystal-clear waters of Moreton Bay, snorkelling around the iconic Tangalooma Wrecks and discovering some of the most vibrant marine life our coastline has to offer.

As we close out 2025, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our students, families, and community partners for your ongoing support of the Pirlirrpa Education Program. This year has been one of transformation, joy, challenge, and triumph, and we are so proud of every young person who walks through our doors.

From all of us here at Pirlirrpa, we wish you a Merry Christmas, a safe and restful holiday break, and a very Happy New Year. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2026 for another exciting year of learning and adventure.

Fees
Genevieve O’Sullivan

Please be advised that the final fees instalments for the year were emailed out on 13 October. If you didn’t receive an email from us, please check your Junk or Spam email folder, otherwise all statements (new and previous) will be accessible via logging in to Parent Lounge.

All other 2025 fees are now OVERDUE – please make payment as soon as possible if you have outstanding fees, however, for those families on fees concessions or regular payment plans, please 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.

Please note that if your fees remain overdue and you have not made contact with the College, your account may be referred to an external debt collection agency which will incur extra cost to you.

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 8694.

Notices

Uniform Shop
Lyn New
The Uniform Shop will be closed over the Christmas Break from Monday, 15 December 2025 up to and including Friday, 9 January 2026. The shop will reopen on Monday, 12 January 2026 and operates between the hours of 8am and 3pm.

Order and pay for uniforms online via the Qkr! App - and your order will be ready and waiting for quick and easy collection at our Uniform Shop.

The App allows families to pre-order uniforms for their children from the convenience of their own devices – simply download the App and search for St James College – click on the following link for instructions: Uniform Shop Qkr Ap

Reminder for families:

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