DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

With Term 3 behind us, I thought it timely to remind students of the benefits of participating in extracurricular activities. With Term 4 ahead, it is a good time for students to return to the College reinvigorated and ready to embrace a new opportunity. Along with organising their academic schedule, students need to ensure they have balance in their lives and this means engaging in a variety of extracurricular pursuits. The College provides a plethora of activities to suit varied student interests. From sport, to music, community service, dramatic and visual arts, students are encouraged to give something a go. Empirical evidence proves there is a definite effect of extracurricular participation on important outcomes like reading and mathematics achievement, course grades and sense of belonging to school. In fact, a study from Texas A&M University found that, “participating in extracurricular activities causes students’ academic performance to increase.” Further benefits include, “making friends, developing skills, and improving employment prospects.” The good news does not end there. “Students who participate in extracurricular activities report higher levels of self-concept and self-worth.” Increased feelings of self-worth help build a young person’s resilience and ability to accept constructive criticism. These valuable life-skills flow on to later life aiding continued personal growth and development.

You can support your daughter’s involvement by reading her interests and considering what activities are available at the College or within the local community. At St Patrick’ College Townsville, we have seen our students achieving great things in the fields of netball, rowing, debating, music community service and the Arts. Our club and activity organisers are always keen to engage with our students and look forward to welcoming new and returning members in Term 4.

Mr Cameran Triffett

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL