Compass No 691 - July 2023

God invites us all to be a part of his family.

When I think about the comparison between God’s love for us and a parent’s love for their child, the similarities are astounding. St Paul in his letter to the Ephesians (chapter 6:1-4) provides a biblical insight into the relationship between parents and their children, but it is also a message for us and our Heavenly Father.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.

Just like a parent’s love and support for their child, God has demonstrated his love for us in the same way. These ways can be seen through unconditional love for us; protection and support in times of need; steering us in the right path to follow; and most of all, through forgiveness and grace.

When Paul tells us to “honour your father and your mother”, he is pointing us back to the commandments from the Old Testament, but also reminding us of the significance of parental love for their children. The mutual respect between a parent and a child is something that is “good” and leads to a fruitful and rich life. Parents want what is best for their children out of genuine love and care for them, and this love and support does not change when children do the wrong thing. When we show love for each other, forgiveness and selflessness become an important part of how we deal with one another.

This is the same in our relationship with God. If we listen to him and respect his commands to us, we can live lives that are pleasing to Him and to others. However, we also make mistakes and stray from his perfect plan for us. Fortunately, though, His love is boundless and forgiveness is freely available to us.

And that is what it means to be in a supportive and caring family. One that God invites us to be a part of each and every day.

Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain

This week I spoke to the Year 6-12 staff and students about the importance of building compassion in our community. Caring for ourselves is the initial step in this process to ensure we bring our best selves into all environments.

Listening to our Inner Coach and training this voice to be positive and uplifting can help us to feel empowered and confident to take on the challenges of learning. If we can then engage our Outer Coaches- parents, tutors, peers, siblings and teachers to reinforce this idea of confidence and resilience then we can together lift in all aspects of our lives.

Compassion is a fundamental human trait that has the power to create a positive and nurturing environment in any setting. In the school classroom, the importance of demonstrating compassion cannot be overstated. When teachers, students and parents show compassion towards each other, they cultivate an atmosphere of trust, respect, and empathy that enhances learning and personal growth.

Compassion also helps to foster a growth mindset among students. When there is a reciprocal, compassionate relationship between the teacher and student, it encourages them to take risks and embrace challenges. Students are more likely to seek help, accept feedback, and persevere through difficult tasks when they know they are supported and guided with compassion. As a result, students develop a positive attitude towards learning and become more resilient in the face of setbacks.

In addition to benefitting individual students, compassion in the classroom sets a powerful example for society as a whole. When students witness and experience acts of compassion, they are more likely to carry these values into their adult lives. By nurturing compassion in the classroom, we are equipping students with essential life skills that will enable them to build stronger communities and contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive world.

The significance of demonstrating compassion cannot be emphasized enough. By fostering understanding, respect, and empathy, teachers and students promote a positive learning environment, improve mental and emotional well-being, foster a growth mindset, and shape compassionate citizens.

Mr Brett Kersnovske, Acting Head of Middle College

Student reports are in the Parent-Lounge at the end of Terms 2 and 4.

Your child’s report will show their progress which includes:

•          where your child is on the learning continuum (the levels used to measure learning)

•          how they're progressing to meet the next level of achievement

•          where they need to improve and what the next steps are.

In Week 3 of Term 3, you can book a time to meet with your child’s teacher to discuss their report. Teachers will let you know when they are available. These parent meetings are for you to:

•          Meet and get to know each other.

•          build a positive relationship.

•          share information about your child's interests and learning.

•          talk more in-depth about your child's student report.

Parent/teacher conferences are valuable. They can help the teacher understand more about your child. You can also learn where you can help your child in their learning.

Before the conference

•          Read your child's report and think about what you want to discuss.

•          Write a list of questions you want to ask the teacher.

•          Ask your child if there are any questions they would like you to ask, or if there is anything they would like you to tell the teacher.

•          Ask your child what they think the teacher will tell you.

•          Think about anything you'd like to tell the teacher. For example, if there have been changes that have had an impact on your child.

During the conference

•          If you want to ask about a specific thing, let the teacher know at the start of the conference.

•          Write down answers to your questions so you can share them with your child.

•          Ask about how your child is enjoying school and taking part in class.

•          Ask about any behaviour issues.

•          Let the teacher know any information you think they need about your child.

•          You and the teacher may create a plan for the next steps.

•          If you're unsure about anything, ask the teacher to explain further.

After the conference

•          Keep in regular contact with the teacher to follow up on your agreed plan.

•          Talk with your child about what you discussed. Talk about ways you can work together to improve their learning.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Teaching and Learning K-5

Appointments with Wanda Hayes are available now

Wanda Hayes will be returning to PLC to make herself available to meet with students and parents one afternoon each week until a new Head of Career Development is in place. She is also available for Zoom appointments over the weekend.

Next week, Wanda will be available in the Careers Office in the PLC Library from 2.45pm to 5.30pm on Tuesday 25^th July (and will also be presenting at the Tertiary Applications Information Evening in the Gym at 6.00pm that evening).

In the following week, Wanda will run a QTAC application coaching session on Thursday 3^rd August in H2.1 and H2.2 for interested Year 12 students from 3.15pm to 4.30pm, and will be available for questions after that session up until 5.30pm.

You can access Wanda’s calendar to book appointments directly – please click here to access the calendar. If you have any problems booking an appointment, please email Wanda at whayes@pacluth.qld.edu.au

 

Shadforth Civil Apprentice intake for 2024 (Year 12)

Looking for a career as either a Heavy Diesel Fitter, Boilermaker welder, Light Vehicle, Auto Electrician or Fitter Machinist?

Kick start your career with Shadforth in January 2024 working on our Heavy earth-moving fleet at our Workshop located in Forest Glen, Sunshine Coast.

Applications are now open with the below apprenticeships on offer:

•          Heavy Diesel Fitter

•          Boilermaker Welder

•          Light Vehicle

•          Auto Electrician

•          Fitter machinist 

Our apprenticeship programs are designed for recent school leavers, you’ll receive on-the-job practical learning, with mentoring, guidance and support from our experienced trades personnel while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

Applications close Wednesday 2^nd August.

For more information, go to https://www.shadcivil.com.au/careers/current-opportunities/?ja-job=1572738

 

Tertiary Applications Information Evening for Parents and Students

Senior students and their parents are encouraged to attend the Tertiary Applications Information Evening in the College Gym on Tuesday 25^th July, at 6.00pm. This will be an in-person presentation by Wanda Hayes and will also be recorded and shared with families after the event.

This information presentation will expand upon the information delivered late last Term to Year 12 students during PD lessons. Topics include:

•          Registering for and receiving your ATAR

•          Key dates for Tertiary application processes

•          Submitting an application for Queensland universities

•          Applying for early offer schemes

•          Managing applications in multiple States

•          ATAR adjustments, including special consideration for students who have experienced disadvantage

•          How universities make offers

•          How to respond to offers and enrol at university

Parents will have the opportunity to ask questions throughout the session.

We look forward to you joining us for this very important information event.

 

Health Heroes Symposium (Years 10 to 12)

Thursday 3^rd August, Kawana Waters State College Secondary Campus, 4.45pm – 6.30pm

In conjunction with the University of the Sunshine Coast, the Kawana Health Education Unit invites you to join medical professionals from around the coast in live demonstrations and educational talks focusing on pathways to exciting future careers in the Health Industry.

NOTE: There will also be information available at the Symposium about the Health Certificate courses offered to Year 11 and 12 students by the Kawana Health Education Unit. Year 10 Students who are interested in enrolling in the Health Cert courses for 2024 are urged to attend this event because they will receive important information about the enrolment process. The attached flyer provides details on how to register for this event.

 

The Open Day Planner is here! (Years 10-12)

University Open Days are always exciting, and there are so many across Australia each year, so the folk at Study, Work, Grow have brought all 71 of them together into one planner for you.

This 5^th edition planner is sorted by month to make it easy to browse and schedule your Open Day visits. There is at least one in SE Qld nearly every weekend for the next couple of months, so think carefully about how you will attend all the Open Days you are interested in.

Download the Open Day Planner here.

 

Welcome to TAFE Queensland Open Days! (Years 9 -12)

Engage with our knowledgeable instructors and explore facilities across our campuses during our upcoming open days on September 12^th-14^th.

Join us for a day filled with activities, workshops, and valuable information about our campuses, study areas and facilities. This is an opportunity for the students to explore an extensive selection of course options and discover the educational path that will propel them towards a successful future.

Students in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12, and parents are invited to attend. Click here to register today.

Mooloolaba Campus, Tuesday 12th Septembe, 9.30am – 2.00pm

Nambour Campus, Tuesday 12th September 9.30am – 2.00pm

Gympie Campus, Wednesday 13th September 9.30am – 2.00pm

Bundaberg Campus, Thursday 14th September 9.30am – 2.00pm

Click here to register.

 

Saturday 19^th August – ADFA Open Day (Years 10-12)

Are you looking at tertiary education options and also interested in joining the Navy, Army or Air Force? The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) welcomes you to explore a unique university offering at the 2023 ADFA Open Day!

If you can’t make it to the in-person Open Day in Canberra, you will still have access to the Virtual ADFA Open Day where you will:

• Hear from ADFA Commandant, Jules Adams, as well as current trainee officers, alumni, and UNSW staff about life and studying at ADFA;

• Explore UNSW degrees, with Information Sessions on Arts, Business, Engineering & Computing, and Science;

• Participate in the Defence Jobs Instagram Q&A with current trainee officers, so they can get their questions answered;

• Take a tour of the campus and much more!

Download an event flyer or click the link here.

 

Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development

Pacific Together

Pacific Together is a care-based service offered by Friends of Pacific to College families in times of need. If you, or someone you know within our College community, needs extra support during the year, the Pacific Together care group may be able to help in some small way or offer a care package. Please contact PLC Chaplain Mr Mark Hauser - mhauser@pacluth.qld.edu.au

We were never meant to do life alone. We need the love and care of others, especially in times of need. If you would like to support the continuation of this care-based service through a financial contribution, we invite you to contact Pacific Together via email: fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Your contributions ensure that we can provide a care package for those in our community when the need arises.

Next FoP Meeting and OCEANfest Meeting

We’d love to see you at our next meeting, on Tuesday 15^th August at 6.30pm in the College Library. You can RSVP by emailing fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

All agenda items should be submitted via email by Friday 7^th August. Come along, meet some new people and find out how you can help connect our community.

Immediately following our FoP Meeting will be the OCEANfest Steering Committee catch-up at approx. 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. We look forward to seeing you there.

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Carly Lovell, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

Breaking barriers, empowering minds, and embracing limitless potential!

We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Pacific Lutheran College (PLC) and UNIQ YOU, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to challenging the expectations of what girls can achieve. Through this innovative initiative, UNIQ YOU aim to pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse future for our girls.

UNIQ YOU's Vision: Empowering Girls to Embrace Their Full Potential

At PLC, we believe that education extends beyond textbooks and classrooms. It encompasses fostering curiosity, instilling confidence, and encouraging students to dream big without limitations. Embracing this vision, we have joined forces with UNIQ YOU to provide our high school girls with the opportunity to engage in 1:1 real-world, personalized video conversations with inspiring women working in 'non-traditional' roles and industries.

Breaking the Mold: Redefining Gender Norms

In many societies, certain career paths are still perceived as "appropriate" for specific genders, creating barriers and limiting opportunities for young individuals. However, times have changed, and so should our mindset. Together with UNIQ YOU, PLC is committed to dismantling these stereotypes and opening doors to every field, occupation, and skill set regardless of gender.

A Glimpse into the Future: Personalized Video Conversations

Through the partnership with UNIQ YOU, our students will have the unique chance to interact with women who have defied conventions and succeeded in diverse industries. These empowering video conversations will expose the students to a broad spectrum of career options, from aviation to engineering, technology to construction, energy to environmental science, and beyond. By connecting with accomplished professionals from esteemed organizations such as Boeing, Urban Utilities, Shell's QGC Business, and more, our girls will gain invaluable insights and first-hand knowledge about various fields.

Igniting the Flame of Aspiration: Making Confident Career Choices

The impact of these 1:1 video conversations goes far beyond inspiring our students; it empowers them to make confident and informed career choices. Armed with knowledge, encouragement, and the belief that they can thrive in any industry, our girls will be better equipped to pursue their passions and contribute meaningfully to the workforce of tomorrow.

Parent Virtual Event

UNIQ You are offering parents of our Year 9-12 girl students to take part in an interactive online forum to hear and be inspired on how you can be involved and support your daughter to think outside the box when considering their career pathway and how you can ensure you also have a positive influence on their decision.

To register for this exclusive (and FREE!) online event, visit uniq-you.eventbrite.com.au and find out the best ways for you to broaden your daughters’ horizons today.

TUESDAY 25 JULY | 7.00pm - 8.00pm | VIRTUAL EVENT

Book your spot now at www.uniq-you.eventbrite.com.au

In Conclusion

The partnership between Pacific Lutheran College and UNIQ YOU represents a powerful step towards empowering girls to challenge gender norms and embrace their full potential. Through personalized video conversations with women in diverse industries, we aim to inspire confidence and passion in our students, preparing them for a future where they can fearlessly pursue any career of their choosing.

Mr Wesley Warner, Head of Department – Innovation, Entrepreneurialism and Business

Writing Competition
Mooloolaba Rotary is once again running its “Telling Stories” writing competition for students in Years 4-12. Entries close on the 12^th of September. The theme for this year’s competition is “I had no choice!”. There are cash prizes on offer and stories range in length from 300-1000 words, depending on year level. See the attached entry form for more details.

Book Club
Please get your Book Club orders in by Monday, 24^th of July.

Book Week Display
Our library aide, Mr Griffin, has been busy over the holidays creating a wonderful display for Book Week on this year’s theme “Read, Grow, Inspire.” The front foyer has become a jungle of plants and vines, while inspirational words from people featured in the Little People, Big Dreams series hang from the ceiling. This year’s nominees for the Book of the Year awards are also on display and will form the basis of library lessons this term.

Ms Narelle Keen, Teacher Librarian

Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College

“Growing in faith and sharing God’s love with others”

Weekly worship services are held at 14 Bombala Terrace Caloundra at 9.00am. We are thankful that we can meet together each week for worship. As we do this, there are still physical distancing, and hygiene requirements we need to follow to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community.

Our worship services are intergenerational with a blend of traditional and contemporary.

You’re welcome to follow us on Facebook and visit our Church webpage.

All are welcome at any of our services.

Pastor Ray Morris, St Mark’s Lutheran Church (0429 856 532 or lutherancaloundra@gmail.com)

21       Light Installation Evening

25       9-12 years District Athletics

25       Year 12 Tertiary Information Evening

25       Year 7 Camp departs (returning Friday 28th July)       

25       P-5 Parent Teacher Conferences

August

1         Year 8 and 9 2024 Information Evening

3         Year 2 Camp Experience

4         Grandparents and Friends Day