Community at Heart: Family, Global and the Cross Wall
As we head into a week with our Mother’s Day breakfast mornings and ALWS Walk My Way this weekend, I’ve been reflecting on community and the way in which we belong to one and many simultaneously. As we quickly approach Mother’s Day this weekend and our children secretly finish practising their breakfast-in-bed delivery skills, we are blessed to be able to celebrate with many of our Mum’s this week on site, with breakfast and time shared together. For those that were able to attend one of these mornings, we truly hope that your family enjoyed spending a few moments together in the shared company of one another, or perhaps you might have plans over the weekend to do so with family and friends.
Community plays an important role in who we are. Individually, we identify with, belong to, and contribute to many communities – our family often being the closest. As a College, we ARE a community, but we also collectively belong to many communities. Foremost we are a Lutheran College – our mission is to nurture God-given potential in a Christ-centred environment (through contemporary educational practices), and so we exist to be an educational community (of course – we are a school!), but importantly and foremost, a community where God is at the centre of our school. And that links us to a wider set of communities. Through shared values with other Christian and other Lutheran families, we see events like the ALWS Walk My Way happening this Saturday. Thank you to the many families, students and staff who are supporting or participating in this event together this weekend. Just as our own event two years ago was a wonderful time together, both learning and seeking to serve others, coming together with our wider Lutheran and Christian community this weekend to help support Ukrainian families will also be very special.
But our connection to community, through Christ, is global also. 1 Corinthians 12 talks about us all being part of the body of Christ, together. And while it is the single act and gift of grace to all we reflect on every Easter that binds us, the visual representation of this is the cross. The cross is a universal icon – yet wholly personal to everyone who sees it at the same time. Several years ago we put one in every classroom and office, as a constant reminder and reflective focal point of why we, as a Lutheran school, exist and belong. The individuality of each cross has its own story.
We have, just very recently, begun to create a ‘cross wall’ in the reception area of Junior (and soon also Middle/Senior) campuses. The crosses that are being added to these are from people and places around the world. They are a reminder of our global Christian family, but also an insight into the different customs and traditions of how people, often in individual and very personal ways, are touched and impacted by Christ’s love.
Currently the wall has a cross created by all our staff, and one created by Donna Cook(!), crosses from Westminster Abbey, Santiago de Compostela Cathedral and Sagrada Familia, two crosses made from Olive wood from Bethlehem with the Lord’s Prayer (in German – from Cologne Cathedral), a shell cross from North Queensland and one donated by Michelle Nisbet. But, that is just the beginning.
The challenge: I would love to encourage our community, every time you are out and about – whether locally or overseas, to find and donate a cross to the wall to continue to build its reach and impact. And, every time you walk past them, to pause and appreciate the community we belong to globally – and reflect on the gift of grace and eternal life that was given to us through the death and resurrection of our Lord, via a cross.
College RAP Plan
A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), is a commitment and strategic roadmap for fostering meaningful reconciliation within a contextualised setting. At its heart, reconciliation aims to strengthen relationships between First Nations peoples, and non-Indigenous peoples and the broader Australian community, for the benefit of all Australians. These relationships are though trust, respect, and a shared vision for the future. As a country, we have many tens of thousands of schools, business and organisations building or using a RAP in their environment.
We would love to encourage any members of our community to consider becoming involved as a way of taking the opportunity, as part of community, to enrich our collective knowledge and understanding of our Country’s first peoples. Please consider expressing your interest in volunteering, in any capacity, to have meaningful input in the College’s RAP through either contributing to, consulting about, or perhaps joining the working party. If you would like to find out more about this opportunity, or would simply like to express your interest in participating, we would love to hear from you. Please direct message Mrs Karen Osborne at the College.
Every blessing for the week ahead.
Simon Hughes
Head of College
Only 2 days left!
This weekend a number of members from our community – students, parents, grandparents, congregation members and staff – will be walking their way at the Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) Way My Walk for Ukraine Brisbane River Walk. We will be joining hundreds of other walkers to send a message of peace and support from the heart of Brisbane to the hearts of the Ukrainian people.
You can still make a difference, see how you can sponsor a walker or donate. The funds raised will be used to:
- Rebuild schools
One of the best ways to help children recover from trauma is school. They can learn. Have routine. See a better future. By building bomb shelters in the basements of schools in Ukraine, we help children like Alina feel safe at school so they can return to school and continue their studies. - Rebuild and renovate 15000 apartments in Kharkiv
Many grandparents like Nataliia fled with their children and grandchildren after the bombs exploded near their home in Ukraine. While many of these families are now receiving care in Poland, their dream is to return home. Your donations will contribute to the renovation of 1500 apartments in Kharkiv so families can go home with dignity, and be safe from the winter cold. - Treat trauma through Art Therapy
Art Therapy enables children to express their feelings and have fun, helping them recover from the trauma they have suffered. Your donations help children like Nadia to access Art Therapy whilst living away from home.
Introducing Jarrod, our new Defence School Mentor
I’d like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the newly appointed College Defence School Mentor (DSM). My name is Jarrod Murfett, I look forward to working across the Junior Campus each Thursday, and the Middle & Senior Campus each Tuesday.
Until recently I worked as a Naval Marine Technician, and have spent 28 years as part of the Defence Force. In this time I have been posted to six different ships and other onshore establishments throughout Australia, ranging from engineering workshops to training establishments. My roles included instructing leadership and management, initial employment training and firefighting at sea.
I recently enjoyed some work with ADF Recruiting, traveling to schools throughout QLD, NT and Northern WA teaching students how to code robots with the aim of encouraging them to consider a career path in STEM.
I understand the environment and pressure that is placed on children from defence families, and the impacts it can have on their educational journey. Many of my personal deployments have been lengthy, requiring significant periods away from my family. I am here to mentor and assist these families within our school community, and look forward to getting to know each of you personally.
Find further information regarding the Defence School Mentor (DSM) Program on the College website.
I encourage defence families to formally register their details with the College by contacting Donna Cook, Enrolments Manager on (07) 3872 5710 or dcook@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au.
Stewart McKenzie-Fowle t/a Conroys Accountants (Authorised representative number 1249646) is an authorised representative of SMSF Advisers Network Pty Ltd, Australian Financial Services Licence number 430062
We are taking orders now via this online order form. A button linking to this order form will also be added to our website Home page this coming Monday 13 May.
Winter Carnival News
Donation Drive for Winter Carnival Stalls
Thank-you for all our wonderful donations. Let’s keep up the great work! This week we are calling for Choc Chips (milk, dark or white) and Choc Melts (milk, dark or white). Next week (Week 5), we are looking forward to receiving lots of packets of icing sugar and wrapped lollies. The wrapped lollies will be used on the Sweets & Bake Stall to make lolly necklaces etc. In addition to this, please feel free to donate items we have already requested in previous weeks if you wish.
Win a Ride Band Ticket valued at $50
If you donate an item during the Donation Drive, you will automatically be placed in a draw for a Ride Band Ticket valued at $50 ($40 pre-sale). Five lucky runner ups will receive a Show Bag of their choice.
Delivering your donations
Junior Campus students – Please take your donation to your child’s classroom.
Middle & Senior Campus students – Please take your donation to Reception.
Year 1/12 Stall change to stick On body art
Youth with a Mission (YWAM) have kindly offered to provide a number of fun activities for our Winter Carnival, one of which is Face Painting.
As a result, our Year 1/12 class stall will now be offering Stick on Body Art. This will include cute temporary body art, stick on earrings and nail decorations.
Donna Cook
2024 Winter Carnival Coordinator
Ph: 3872 5710 | dcook@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au
Meet our Winter Carnival Partners
Dream Financing – Finance Brokers and Accountants
Whether you’re looking for a new loan, a better loan, accounting advice, or seeking finance for a company vehicle, a personal car, or commercial machinery….whatever it is, Dream Financing can help. With over 30 years industry experience, our experienced staff, together with our extensive list of lender contacts, can help you secure the best loan for your family or your business.
No matter your circumstances, Dream Financing has the expertise, know-how, and industry contacts to find the best deal that works for you. Dream Financing has been helping Brisbane investors and business owners secure the best mortgage deal for their commercial property loan needs since 2002 in the following areas:
- Home Loans
- Commercial Property Loans
- Investor Property Loans
- Equipment Loans for the Self-Employed
- Car Loans for the Self Employed
- Cashflow Finance for the Self Employed
- Refinancing
- American Truck Finance
Visit our website for further information.
Montville Sky Suites
With captivating views of the Blackall Range to the Coast – Montville Sky Suites combines luxury and style in accommodation. Situated 88 kms from Brisbane or 55 kms from Noosa, Montville is the creative heart of the hinterland.
Exuding its unique romantic charm this quaint village is home to art galleries, boutique shopping and its own distinctive coffee culture.
Montville Sky Suites provides the perfect base while you take in the natural beauty, serenity and crisp mountain air.
Whether it’s a romantic escape or just time out to relax and unwind while enjoying the breathtaking views on offer we have accommodation options to suit. All within a stroll from the heart of Montville village itself!
Choose the Luxurious Spa Suite for that special romantic getaway and enjoy your own spa on a fully enclosed balcony.
Alternatively, choose the Panorama Suite combining a Luxury 2-Bed Suite with Kitchenette. Ideal for couples, multiple parties or a family getaway.
Both offer premium top-floor positions, eco-friendly fireplaces and stunning views to the ocean. For further information, visit montvilleskysuites.com.au.
Celebrating Mothers and the Special Women in our Lives
On Wednesday morning the air was buzzing with excitement as we gathered in The Shed to share some special time with the wonderful women in our lives.
Lots of chatter, plenty of croissants and an atmosphere that conveyed “You are so special to us!”
The sense of pride and joy could not be missed as children eagerly shared time in classrooms after the breakfast and built connections and memories.
A few students from each Junior Campus year level were asked to reflect in 15 seconds or less why their mum is so special to them, enjoy their responses in this video.
Later in the week, I am sure this will continue when I once again hear stories about the purchases from the Mother’s Day Stall and how cards and gifts will be a blessing to completely spoil mum.
I hope that your Mother’s Day will be truly special.
Our wonderful students are the product of the warm and loving efforts of their mums and dads, grannies and poppies, Ma’s and Pa’s and we want you all to know that we see you and all of the love that you carry in your hearts for your children.
Happy Mother’s Day to you all!
I also extend my heartfelt gratitude to Rebecca Hitchenson, Andrea Rhind and their team of volunteers for orchestrating such an exceptional Mother’s Day Stall. These events are a result of tireless dedication over many months. Your commitment to our College is truly commendable. The students, staff, and I thank you and deeply appreciate all that you do.
Opportunities Abound
At the recent Open Morning, I watched as our Year 6 school leaders answered a question about extra-curricular offerings on the Junior Campus. The leaders touched on developing skills, following your interests and listed the many opportunities. As the Year 6 students grow in their confidence and deliver different opportunities like drawing, disco, games, Lego club and our staff offer sports, dance, choir, chess, e-sport, Spanish dance and creations, I know that these options help to cultivate teamwork, leadership and personal growth.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our Upper Primary e-sport team on their recent 3rd place at the FUSE CUP Minecraft Competition. Four teams spent hours on the challenge – planning, drafting, and refining their virtual e-sport facility for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games. The entry from Oskar, Lawrence, Lucy, Oliver and Elizabeth showed exceptional skill, creativity and earned 3rd place in this Australian competition for Primary students.
If you are interested in encouraging your child to participate in some of the extra curricular offerings, please look on your child’s SEQTA portal for the Term 2 Clubs and Activities.
As you explore the extra curricular opportunities on the Junior Campus, I also encourage parents to explore the middle school at their 2025 Subject and Careers Expo – Tuesday 28 May 2024. Explore what the middle school has to offer and speak with the teaching staff about subjects and career options »
Prep – Year 6 Learning Expo – Date Claimer
We eagerly anticipate showcasing our learning once more this year. Please save the date: Thursday, 13 June, starting after school with performances in The Shed from 3:30pm.
Join us on the Junior Campus to delve into the depth of our educational journey. Excitingly, our Arts Team will be part of the festivities, featuring Choir Performances and Visual Arts displays in the Shed.
I do love that there is always something to look forward to, learn or explore. I hope to see you in and around the campus in the coming weeks.
Thank you PoP community for all you do.
Anne-Marie Schmidt
Head of Campus – Junior
Back Into the Swing!
Term 2 is off to a flying start, and we are so excited about the wonderful events we have planned for this term. Seeing the students reconnecting and challenging themselves has been so satisfying.
One thing we will continue to foster with our students this term is being a good friend to others. Like any skill, social skills must be explicitly taught and practised. Helping children develop and maintain social skills is crucial for their overall well-being and success in life. Here are some strategies you can consider:
- Encourage Playdates: Arrange playdates with peers to provide opportunities for social interaction. This can help children learn how to share, take turns, and cooperate with others.
- Teach Empathy: Help children understand and recognise emotions in themselves and others. Encourage them to consider others’ perspectives and feelings.
- Practice Communication: Teach children how to express themselves clearly and respectfully. Encourage active listening and teach them how to engage in conversations by asking questions and sharing thoughts.
Role-playing: Use role-playing scenarios to help children practice social skills such as introducing themselves, joining a group, or resolving conflicts peacefully.- Model Positive Behaviour: Children learn a lot by observing adults. Model positive social skills such as politeness, empathy, and good manners in your interactions with others.
- Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback and praise when children demonstrate good social skills. Encourage them to reflect on their interactions and discuss ways to improve.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that social development varies among children. Set realistic expectations based on their age and individual abilities.
Encourage Hobbies and Group Activities: Participate in group activities such as sports, art classes, or clubs where they can interact with peers who share similar interests.- Address Social Challenges: If a child struggles with social skills or faces challenges such as shyness or anxiety, provide support and guidance. Consider seeking professional help if needed.
- Create a Positive Environment: Foster a positive and inclusive environment at home and in school where children feel safe to explore, make mistakes, and learn from their experiences.
The Resilience Project (TRP) Parent Hub
This week’s presentation from The Resilience Project focuses on Gratitude.
Gratitude is paying attention to the things that we have right now, and not worrying about what we don’t have. We practise this by noticing the positives that exist around us.
Research shows that practicing gratitude rewires our brains to overcome negativity bias (which can lead to anxiety and depression) and see the world for what we are thankful for. It is also shown to broaden thinking and increase physical health through improved sleep and attitude to exercise.
View Part 2 of the series, Gratitude, here: https://theresilienceproject.com.au/2023-parent-carer-hub-inspire-hugh/
There are many ways in which you can practise gratitude, including starting a gratitude journal. You can simply use a notebook to list three things that went well for you each day or use a more comprehensive Wellbeing Journal, like those created by The Resilience Project.
Source: Psychology Today
For mental health resources and support information, visit The Resilience Project’s Support Page.
Blessings,
Coreta Lennon
Deputy Head of Campus – Junior
Esports team takes third place in FUSE Cup Minecraft competition
We’re thrilled to announce and celebrate the incredible achievement of our school’s esports team, who secured third place in the highly competitive FUSE Cup Minecraft competition!
Facing off against some of the best talent in Australia, Oskar, Lawrence, Lucy, Oliver and Elizabeth showcased their exceptional skills and creativity, earning a well-deserved spot on the podium.
The FUSE Cup Minecraft competition presented a unique challenge this year, with participants tasked with building an esports facility for the upcoming 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games. Four teams took up the challenge and spent hours planning, designing and refining their virtual masterpieces.
We would like to recognise all the entries and look forward to seeing them on the big screen at an upcoming assembly.
Congratulations to each member of the esports team for their remarkable achievement! Your hard work, perseverance, and passion have paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder of your success.
Let’s continue to support and celebrate the achievements of our students as they strive for excellence in all their endeavours.
Rebekah Bruyn
Learning Coach
Kumbartcho Sanctuary Visit
Year 3 visited Kumbartcho Sanctuary and Nursery last week to learn about our local plants and animals, and how to care for them and the environment we share.
Middle and Senior Subject and Careers Expo for 2025 — Hope for the Future
We are delighted to be able to commence creating enriching and hope filled pathways with our young people and parents/caregivers through the Middle and Senior Campus Subject and Career Expo for 2025 on Tuesday 28 May (Week 7). We invite students and parents from Years 3 to 12 to attend to learn more about the subjects and career pathways that are offered from Years 9 to 12.
This is a unique opportunity for students and parents to;
- Visit the Subject Expo and speak with our Curriculum Leaders and Specialist teachers.
- Experience a year level presentation from Sarah Hoff-Zweck, Head of Campus and Wendy Bowen, Director of Teaching and Learning, that focuses on encouraging our young people to see the amazing possibilities that are ahead of them not just in one year but in the years ahead.
- Learn about how achieving the QCE Education Certificate and ATAR at the end of Year 12 can happen in multiple ways and learning modes that links to the individual passions, strengths, and skills of each student.
- Have conversations with staff at the College to learn more about subject offerings, online flexible delivery of courses and external VET and Tertiary courses.
- Connect with representatives from Universities and TAFE providers and the QTAC application process.
We ask that if you are intending to come along to please RSVP via SOBS bookings to the specific year level session/s you will be attending.
The staff at the Middle and Senior Campus can’t wait to share with you their love of learning in education, that we hope will ignite curiosity and hope for the future of your child’s pathway with us at Prince of Peace.
Key dates and materials for Subject Preference Process for 2025
The process and materials outlined below are provided to assist both students and parents in making decisions about subject preferences for 2025 in Years 9-11 and have been deliberately communicated earlier to allow the time for parents, students, and teachers to talk together.
- Subject Preference Expression of Interest to be completed on ‘Web Preferences’ by Wednesday 10 July (Week 1 Term 3). Student’s personalised log in details to Web Preferences will be emailed to the student’s school email account with steps on how to complete subject preferences in Week 9 Term 2.
- Year 9 and 10 students and families will be invited to a Course Counselling Interview that will be held with either the Director of Teaching and Learning, Director of QCE and Careers Coordinator. Head of Campus (Middle and Senior) and Learning Enrichment Coordinator may be involved in this interview process. Year 10 Course Counselling interviews will begin in Week 4 and 5 Term 3 and Year 11 Course Counselling Interviews will begin in Week 6 Term 3. Parents will be informed when SOBS online bookings are available through SEQTA direct message.
We keep both parents and students in our prayers as students consider their passions, strengths, and capabilities in the decisions that they make in forming their emerging pathway with us at Prince of Peace.
Mother’s Day Breakfast
Sarah Hoff-Zweck
Head of Campus – Middle and Senior
Year 10 Extension Chemistry
Mrs Rajput’s 10 extension Chemistry class has been learning and experimenting with chemical reactions.
Chemical reactions are the processes by which chemicals interact to form new chemicals with different compositions. There were some productive discussions on chemical reactions and the various types of reactions that occur, one of the students summed it up, “How chemicals react is dictated by the chemical properties of the element or compound—the ways in which a compound or element undergoes changes in composition.”
What a way to engage budding chemists with science discussions!
Service to Others – Developing Empathy
There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. (1 Corinthians 12:4-7)
Our Year 7 students have been investigating their character strengths and qualities and naming their gifts and talents in Christian Studies lessons this term. What a talented group of young people we have in our midst! These students are going to use their God-given potential in a project to serve others in our College community for the common good. The common good is a term used to describe what is best for all within a group or community, and it is actualised when the wellbeing of all members is positively impacted and improves over time. This extends from our community to support for others in society, including those who are marginalised, disadvantaged, or dispossessed.
The Student Leadership Council (SLC) have been the champions of the upcoming ALWS Walk My Way – Walk for Ukraine event to be held in Brisbane on Saturday 11 May. This week in Worship, the SLC together with Chaplain Reilly shared a touching story: Lubna and Pebble. This story requires empathy from us about the dire situation that refugee children find themselves in, having to move to a new country without the comfort of any possessions and limited family or friendship supports. For most of us, this is very hard to imagine, however, we can empathise and collectively take action as Christians who believe in the common good, and God’s grace to bring this to actualisation. We hope to see you on Saturday at the Australian Lutheran World Service (ALWS) event – to walk, to run, to make connections with each other as we represent the Prince of Peace Church and College community.
To continue to develop empathy within our community, our Middle and Senior students have been engaging with learning from our Wellbeing program The Resilience Project (TRP), to have a common, consistent language of wellbeing and emotional literacy. Learning with your young person about resilience, as parents and carers, you also have access to this program through the Parent & Carer Hub.
Melissa Graham
Director of Wellbeing – Middle & Senior Campus
Junior Campus Sport
NISSA Gala Days
Meanwhile, last Friday our Semester 1 NISSA Gala Days concluded, offering our students invaluable opportunities to hone their Teeball, Basketball, and Touch Football skills. As we transition to Semester 2, we eagerly anticipate the upcoming Gala Day sports: Netball, Soccer, or AFL. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our dedicated coaches and supportive parents for their unwavering encouragement and guidance throughout these sporting events. Together, we continue to foster a culture of teamwork, sportsmanship, and athletic excellence within our school community.
District Cross Country
Congratulations to our 23 runners who last Friday represented PoP at the District Cross Country admirably on a challenging course, aided by the pleasant overcast weather. With an average of 65 runners per race, the competition was fierce and spirited, showcasing the talent and dedication of all participants. Special acknowledgement to our Top 10 finishers: Laura Larder (3rd), Katie Richardson (3rd) and Phoebe O’Flynn (10th). This event served as excellent preparation for the upcoming NISSA Cross Country this Friday, where we anticipate even more thrilling races and commendable performances. Best of luck to our team as they continue to demonstrate their strength and determination!
Jessica Schneider
Junior Campus PE Teacher & Sport Coordinator
Middle & Senior Campus Sport
NISSA Cross Country Carnival
Our NISSA Cross Country Carnival will be held this Friday (10 May) at the Mitchelton Football Club and Teralba Park.
The schedule for the day is below:
Interhouse Cross Country Carnival
The Middle and Senior Campus will run a modified Interhouse Cross Country Carnival in Week 5. As our original date got rained out, we have been looking for a break in the schedule for where it could fit it in. We will run the races during Sport lessons for Yrs 7-10, Wellbeing sessions for Yr 11 and PAW lessons for Yr 12. The races will be run down on the oval. Age Champions and the Overall House winner will be presented during an Assembly later in the term. All students are expected to participate.
BOSL Basketball
Our Senior Boys played Mango Hill this past week in their 2nd BOSL Basketball game for the term. The boys got off to a blistering start in the first quarter with a 21-6 lead going into the first break. Tom Quine and Dylan Turley both hit three pointers, with Tom leading the scoring with seven points. They continued to push in the second quarter and increased their lead to 38-10. The second half saw the boys try a few different plays and formations which slowed their scoring a little. The final result was 58-31 in our favour. Special mention to Riley Townsend who finished with 15 points, Tom Quine who scored 11 and Luis Mortimer who had 10 points. Well done boys!
If you require any more information, please contact myself via SEQTA or the Senior Campus via email receptionsc@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au
Gabrielle Collman
Middle & Senior Campus Teacher – Sports Coordinator
Middle & Senior Campus Music News
Gala Celebration of Music 40th Anniversary Concert
By now students should have costumes worked out for the 80s themed Gala Celebration of Music. If they prefer not to dress up they can wear their music uniform.
This is always one of our best attended Concerts of the year, AND being our 40th Anniversary, and 80s Themed I think it will be a full house!
The event is on Thursday 23 May 6 – 8pm.
We will have all of our ensembles performing in a variety of styles and genre. Jazz, Rock, Classical, Folk, Pop… whatever your style, there will be a special performance for you! Plus you will be supporting the wonderful students who have dedicated so much time and love to the preparation of this material week after week.
Also coming up later in the term is our Battle of the Bands. Now in its second year, the heats are the last day of this term. The music department is absolutely running hot at the moment with all of the Ensemble and Band preparation. What a great school to be in with so much music happening.
We have some new tutors starting in the next few weeks. If you have put in a form for private tuition stand by to hear from them for your first lessons. It is great to have some specific expertise becoming available for our students.
Let’s get started and make some music!
Linda Brady
Middle & Senior Campus Curriculum Leader of Music and Coordinator of Extra-Curricular Music
Worship
Sunday 12 May:
9am Worship
Sunday 19 May:
9am Worship
Please keep an eye on the Prince of Peace Church Facebook page for service updates.
