Newsletter Article: Term 3, Week 10 2023

Welcoming our new children of the Sacred Heart

One of my highlights of recent weeks was joining our Principal in welcoming the new members to our Stuartholme community. I was delighted to connect with new families (and many existing ones with a younger daughter commencing) and experience the buzz and excitement that new beginnings provide.

As a leader in girls’ education, Stuartholme is well-regarded and known for its approach to transition and making this as seamless as possible. I was deeply moved by how our community continues to support this important aspect and I look forward to officially welcoming our new students at the start of next year.

Acknowledging success in professional learning

At Stuartholme, we are blessed by a professional and dedicated staff who answer the call to contribute to the formation of young people in Sacred Heart education. At Stuartholme, we are committed to investing in developing the capacity of our staff and recently had the pleasure of being acknowledged as an excellence awardee at the Australian HR Awards in the professional learning division. Stuartholme has innovatively embedded learning experiences for our staff that build capacity and target leading improvements in education that other schools look to us for inspiration. From our pioneering work in Queensland with Dr Ron Richhart and the Cultures of Thinking program to the progressive Thrive from the Heart positive education program with Dan Haesler, Stuartholme continues to promote the great work that influences the positive learning culture at the school. I congratulate all involved in this significant achievement and acknowledgement.

On that note – a huge congratulations to Andrea Reddan who has been shortlisted for the TEACHX, Outstanding Contribution to Teaching Award by the Queensland College of Teachers. We are delighted for Andrea who has been a dedicated member of our school community for 30 years and epitomises the Sacred Heart Goals in Action. We look forward to these awards in Term 4.

Maximising the break period

As we head towards Spring break, I always think it is important to reflect on maximising the break periods as an opportunity to take the time for recharging and ensure effective preparation for the final term.

As our students come out of peak assessment periods, it is important to ensure they get the right amount of rest and recovery.

As adults, we can role model this effectively to young people our own approaches. Engaging in conversations to discuss the strategies you put in place can be a great place to start through focusing on the patterns for success that can include:

• Ensuring you are getting enough sleep
• Engaging in mindfulness and gratitude activities to promote positive and future-focused feelings
• Eating healthily and exercising
• Avoiding an increase in social media activity
• Taking the time to get out in the fresh air through embracing a change of scenery.

Whether your daughter is in the junior or senior learning phase, these practices are an excellent foundation and predictor of future success.

As we come to the end of the term, I wish all in our community the very best for the Spring break and thank you for your contribution across the term.

Deborah Lonsdale-Walker
Deputy Principal

Newsletter Article: Term 3, Week 10 2023

The Goals of Sacred Heart Education

It’s often said that the Goals of Sacred Heart Education underpin everything that we do at Stuartholme. As you know, the Goals are that we educate to:

1. a personal and active faith in God.

2. a deep respect for intellectual values;

3. the building community as a Christian value;

4. a social awareness that impels to action;

5. personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.

One of the great expressions of how these Goals guide us is through our Student Retreat program. This term, students in Year 7, 8 , 9 & 12 have all had their annual retreat day.

Year 12 Retreat – Journey of the Heart

Taking the theme of Journey of the Heart, our Year 12 retreat is an opportunity for students to reflect on the gift of their Sacred Heart education as it draws to a close. With external exams and Valedictory only weeks away, a future outside the gates of Stuartholme is on the horizon. This retreat is different from the others in that it is an overnight experience. Throughout the days together, students move through a range of sessions in which they reflect on their life journey, the Goals of Sacred Heart Education and how they have shaped their character, a chance for reconciliation to heal any relationships with peers that may have been broken, letter from parents, along with moments of affirmation to express gratitude to friends and others who have journeyed with them along the way. The retreat culminates in a special blessing to send them forth using the words of St Madeleine Sophie “Let love be your life for all eternity”. It’s a special time for our Senior students.

Year 7 Retreat – Cor Unum

Taking the theme of Cor Unum – One Heart, our Year 7 retreat is a part of the induction of the newest members of our community into the life and mission of our school. Whilst all the Goals are featured throughout the day, it is Goal 1 – a personal and active faith in God – that is at the centre of this retreat, as the students explore the meaning of our School motto Cor Unum. Along the way, they were supported by a group of Year 9 students who volunteered to act as leaders for the day.

Year 8 Retreat – Building Community

Each year, our Year 8 retreat is facilitated by Mr Michael Fitzpatrick. The focus of our Year 8 retreat is Goal 3 – building community as a Christian value. For over 30 years, Michael has worked in Catholic schools across Queensland, supporting individual cohorts of students to understand each other, name some of the challenges they face as a group and that are synonymous with community life, and work together to find solutions to move forward and deepen connections. He does this in a beautifully supportive way that empowers the students and helps them to realise more deeply the Spirit of Cor Unum, where all are embraced for their uniqueness and giftedness.

Year 9 Retreat – Future Anything

For the first time, Stuartholme partnered with Future Anything for our Year 9 retreat. Over the course of two days and with a focus on Goal 4 – a social awareness that impels to action – the Year 9 students explored how they can catalyse their unique skills, traits and gifts as “Sacred Heart Leaders” to prototype and pitch innovative ideas to complex problems, with the ultimate aim to make the world a better place. Their awareness of the real concerns that we face in the world, and the innovative solutions they came up with was phenomenal.

Keys to success

One of the keys to the success of our Retreat Program is its developmental approach, meeting the students where they are at as the years go by. And of course, the way that they bring to life our Sacred Heart Goals of Education!

I encourage you to spark a conversation with your daughter about her experience of retreat!

Justin Golding
Dean of Mission

Newsletter Article: Term 3, Week 10 2023

Safe on Social & Lab for Parents

This week, Stuartholme had the privilege of hosting Kirra Pendergast from Safe on Social. Kirra delivered insightful messages to our Year 7, 9, and 11 cohorts regarding the intricacies of the online world. Additionally, she shared crucial information with parents and caregivers during our Lab for Parents session on Monday night. Kirra’s practical strategies are invaluable in ensuring the online safety of your daughters. With the upcoming holidays and the potential for increased online activity, it’s the perfect time to revisit these essential guidelines.

Key Tips for Parents:

1. Nurture Your Child’s Ambitions: Encourage your child to set clear goals for their future. Having a vision helps them make online choices that align with their aspirations.
2. Teach Digital Discipline: Support your child in turning off unnecessary notifications to maintain focus and minimise digital distractions.
3. Encourage Digital Mindfulness and Exploration: Motivate your child to explore a variety of apps, games, and online tools. This broadens their digital experiences and enhances their skills.
4. Guide Their Online Consumption: Engage in conversations with your child about the importance of selective online consumption. Teach them to curate their feeds and choose content that’s positive and educational.

Kirra also recommended the book “Stolen Focus” by Johann Hari.

A recurring theme in Kirra’s sessions was the necessity of removing phones from bedrooms. This seemingly simple yet impactful strategy is supported by research that links increased anxiety and depression in teenagers to phone usage in bedrooms.

You can watch Kirra’s informative parent presentation by following this link: Safe On Social – Parent Information – YouTube

Year 11 Semi-Formal:

We had the pleasure of celebrating the Year 11 Semi-Formal this week at Victoria Park. Our students and their partners were exceptional! A heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Meehan and Mrs. Fahy for their meticulous organisation of this memorable event.

I wish all families a rejuvenating Spring break –  time to step away from the usual routines and hopefully reconnect with loved ones.

Blessings to all.

Elizabeth Foxover

Dean of Student Wellbeing

Newsletter Article: Term 3, Week 10 2023

The end of Term 3 is the perfect time to celebrate your academic achievements and reward yourself with well-deserved rest. Below are some research-backed tips about the importance of acknowledging your accomplishments, strategies for continued academic success, and the significance of taking time to rest and recharge during the holidays.

Celebrating Academic Success:

Acknowledging your academic accomplishments is essential for boosting motivation and self-esteem. Research conducted by Professor Teresa Amabile at Harvard Business School highlights the positive impact of celebrating small wins on one’s motivation and creativity (Amabile, 2011). When you take the time to acknowledge your achievements, whether big or small, it reinforces a sense of progress and accomplishment, which can be a powerful driver for future success.

To celebrate your academic success, consider:

• Reflection: Take some time to reflect on your journey so far. Think about the challenges you’ve overcome, the new skills you’ve acquired, and the knowledge you’ve gained.
• Setting Goals: Use this time to set new academic goals. Setting clear, achievable objectives can provide direction and motivation for the future.
• Gratitude: Express gratitude to those who supported you throughout your academic journey, whether it’s teachers, classmates, or family members. A heartfelt thank-you can foster strong relationships and build a support network.

Strategies for Academic Success:

While celebrating your achievements, it’s also worthwhile to consider the strategies that contributed to your success. Here are some research-backed tips for academic excellence:

• Effective Time Management: Research by Dr. Angela Lee Duckworth suggests that grit and perseverance play a crucial role in academic success (Duckworth, Peterson, Matthews, & Kelly, 2007). Develop a commitment schedule that allows you to allocate time for school work, assignments, and revision while maintaining a healthy balance.
• Active Learning: Studies by Dr. Richard Mayer at the University of California, Santa Barbara, highlight the benefits of active learning techniques such as summarisation, self-testing, and spaced repetition (Mayer, 2009). Incorporate these strategies into your study routine for improved retention and understanding of course material.
• Seeking Help: Don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Research by Dr. Robert Bjork at UCLA emphasizes the importance of retrieval practice and interleaved learning (Bjork, 2011). Engage with teachers, mentors, and study groups to reinforce your understanding of challenging subjects.

Embracing Holiday Rest:

It’s essential to prioritise rest during the holidays. Research by Dr. Matthew Walker, a sleep expert, emphasizes the crucial role of sleep in memory consolidation and cognitive functioning (Walker, 2017). Here are some tips for restful holidays:

• Unplug: Take a break from digital devices and social media to reduce screen time and relax your mind.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: Engage in mindfulness meditation or relaxation techniques to reduce stress and enhance overall wellbeing.
• Leisure Activities: Pursue hobbies and activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading, walking, or spending quality time with loved ones.

In the hustle and bustle of academic life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of celebrating your accomplishments and taking time to rest. However, both are essential for your personal and academic growth. As you wrap up the term remember to reflect on your achievements, employ research-backed strategies for future success, and embrace the restful holiday period. You’ve earned it.

Wishing you a well-deserved break and continued success in your academic journey!

Annie Van Homrigh

Dean of Teaching and Learning Innovation

References:

Amabile, T. M. (2011). The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work. Harvard Business Review Press.

Duckworth, A. L., Peterson, C., Matthews, M. D., & Kelly, D. R. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 92(6), 1087-1101.

 Mayer, R. E. (2009). Multimedia learning (2nd ed.). Cambridge University Press.

 Bjork, R. A. (2011). On the Symbiosis of Remembering, Forgetting, and Learning. In A. S. Benjamin (Ed.), Successful remembering and successful forgetting: A festschrift in honor of Robert A. Bjork (pp. 1-22). Psychology Press.

 Walker, M. P. (2017). Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams. Scribner.

Newsletter Article: Term 3, Week 10 2023

No matter how many times we bid farewell to our boarders at the end of the term, we have yet to become accustomed to the quiet that accompanies their departure. A place filled with laughter, endless story telling, sharing of moments and connection suddenly falls into a slumber of sorts. It is a reminder of the life, the positive energy and spirit that our boarders possess and bring to our Boarding House.

As our boarders venture home to rural and remote QLD and NSW, local and International locations such as Dubai, Thailand, Indonesia and PNG, to spend two weeks with their families, friends and loved ones, we celebrate this time, knowing that our families have been excitedly awaiting their return home.

In the lead up to end of term, we have been busy with assessments, a plethora of fun recreation activities, Head of the River, Netball Grand Finals and Regional Tours, where we had the pleasure of visiting with past, current and prospective boarders and their families. To say it’s been a joyful few weeks would be an understatement! Celebrating time together as a community and supporting each other- whether we are near or far- is something our Boarders cherish. As we move into our last Term of 2023, our community wishes you all a very happy holidays!

Jane Morris
Dean of Boarding

We understand that family circumstances can change as we lead into a new year. This is a reminder to parents that if your child is not returning to Stuartholme in 2024, we require one full school term’s written notice if you intend to withdraw your child from the school. As we are currently working on the 2024 timetable and subsequent staffing, it is important we continue to retain accurate enrolment numbers. In addition, we are operating waitlists in some year levels, and we need to be able to contact those on the list who are hoping to secure a place at the school. Notification can be written and received until the last week of the September school holidays to ensure the notice of one full school term. This notification can be made directly in writing via email to the Principal’s Office: principal@stuartholme.com

Netball Season 2023

We congratulate our dedicated teams as we conclude an incredible 2023 Netball season!

Our teams celebrated on Friday afternoon with outdoor fun activities and an awards presentation. We were fortunate to welcome Tippah Dwan, a successful professional netballer and shooter for the Adelaide Thunder Birds and current Suncorp Super Netball League champions. We witnessed outstanding performances in the Grand Final by STU 21 and STU 18. Incredible victories also came from our Cadets STU 9 and Intermediates STU 1 teams, securing premiership titles in their divisions.

To RSVP please visit: SSCA Remembrance Mass and Morning Tea – Stuartholme School

The Ticket link will be provided to families via myStuartholme, next week. 

Please note: Staff and students of Stuartholme School are not required to book a ticket for this event.

A less invasive test to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD, is comprised of a group of intestinal disorders which are characterised by an abnormal immune response. IBD occurs as either Crohn’s disease or Ulcerative colitis. Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis have similar symptoms, such as swelling and abdominal pain, but require different methods of diagnosis. However, distinguishing between these two diseases requires the implementation of invasive methods of diagnosis, such as biopsies. Considering this, researchers at the American Chemical Society are searching for biomarkers in blood, such as antibodies, that can be used to identify which specific disease is the primary cause of IBD, without the utilisation of invasive strategies.

The antibody IgA, or more formally known as Immunoglobulin A, is shown to play a significant role in autoimmune diseases such as IBD. For example, IgA within mucous membranes cover and protect internal organs, such as the intestinal tract. When decorated with chains of sugars, or glycans, the structure and function of IgA is altered. Due to Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis both having the ability to affect the intestinal tract upon infection, researchers investigated how IgA glycosylation is carried out in this region to distinguish between these diseases.

To investigate the diseases’ glycosylation patterns, the researchers collected and analysed over 400 clinical plasma samples from patients with either disease, along with approximately 200 healthy controls. Utilising the methods of liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry, 30 different forms of the IgA1 and IgA2 antibodies were found. Those with Crohn’s disease had IgAs with fewer branched sugars, but higher levels of glycosylation. Those with Ulcerative colitis were found to have a higher number of glycans attached to the opposite end of the IgA protein chain than the control group. Drawing from this, a preliminary statistical model that could predict the disease group was created, due to the accurate diagnosis of each disease when measuring glycan presence and location. This allowed researchers to identify the type of IBD using a less invasive technique, through the monitoring of IgA antibody glycans, making diagnosis easier and more accessible for the broader community.

Find out more: Developing a less invasive test for inflammatory bowel disease | ScienceDaily

Sophie Ladbrook

2023 UQ Science Ambassador

Upcoming Science Opportunities:

Enter the 70^th Queensland Science Contest

Would you like to display a science project which you’ve been working on? Why not enter into the 70th Queensland Science Contest. With over $10000 worth of prizes and bursaries available, this competition is open to anyone from Years 7 to 12. Find out more

Register by: 5^th of October

InspireU STEM Camp

The InspireU Program brings together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for week-long camps on UQ’s St Lucia campus. The program allows for full immersion in the university experience to learn about tertiary study options in science and gain practical insights into a range of disciplines. Find out more

Date: 17^th – 22^nd  September

Calling First Nations students with a passion for STEM!

Unlock the incredible world of engineering at the Indigenous Australian Engineering School (IAES) in January 2024.

IAES offers:

– A fully sponsored week-long program

– Attendees can explore various engineering fields

– Site visits and cultural activities

– Networking with industry professionals

– Recreational fun on Sydney Harbour

Kind regards,

Mr Timothy Butler

Acting Leader of Learning – Science

Year 9 and 11 students embarked on an experimentary journey with Dr. Rob Bell, a renowned TV host, CSIRO Scientist, founder of Experimentary and current parent. Dr. Rob enlightened our students with his extensive knowledge, focusing on the fascinating reactions of nitrogen when combined with various materials. The morning was not only educational but also a fantastic opportunity for our students to delve into the world of science.

This bottle had liquid nitrogen in it which has a boiling point much lower than room temperature. As that warmed, it turned to gas, filling this balloon eventually causing the very loud, violent pop.

Here the balloon is filled with air and then shrinks as it gets colder, because the colder the air the more it contracts and some of gases in the air compress a lot and even turn into liquids or solids (e.g. carbon dioxide) at liquid nitrogen’s low temperature.

Other experiments throughout the morning included putting a rubber ball into liquid nitrogen, making it so cold and rigid it wouldn’t bounce anymore and actually split in half when tossed on the ground. He imploded a container by creating a vacuum inside and letting the air pressure crush it. Elephant’s toothpaste, where a chemical reaction releases gas that is trapped by soapy water, rapidly creating bubbles that turn to foam (second session only I think). There was a pop science quiz in the middle of the show with fun facts e.g. that the electric car was invented before the petrol car.

One of the most popular tricks was pouring the liquid nitrogen on a Cheeto, then while eating it exhaling visible water vapour like on a cold morning (but more so).

The Swim Shorts have arrived and are available for $65. Swim shorts are to wear over togs or water polo suit for those students who require more coverage.

New House shirts have also arrived. Cost is $42. House shirts will be compulsory for the new Junior School. They are colourful and will certainly stand out.

You can purchase these along with the other products available at our School Shop through Flexischools: https://flexischools.com.au/

If you need a new unform and it to be professionally fitted, book an appointment here: SHS School Shop (office365.com)