FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

As Term 1 comes to a close, we would like to take this opportunity to thank students and families for a positive and productive start to the year. It has been wonderful to see students engaging in their learning, establishing routines, and making the most of the opportunities available to them.

This term has also provided a number of opportunities to celebrate student achievement. Our Scholars’ Assembly was a highlight, where we recognised the outstanding accomplishments of our 2025 Year 12 cohort. It was inspiring to see the results of their hard work, commitment, and perseverance celebrated as a community, and to acknowledge the strong foundations they have built for their future pathways.

In our Junior School, the Diligence Assembly was a wonderful occasion to celebrate the consistent effort, positive attitudes, and persistence of our younger students. These qualities are essential in building strong learning habits, and it was pleasing to see so many students recognised for their commitment to doing their best each day.

As we move into assessment periods across the year, we would like to remind families of the process for applying for short-term Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA). Short-term AARA supports are available for students whose performance in assessment may be affected by illness, misadventure, or other unforeseen circumstances.

To apply for short-term AARA, students and families are required to:

• Submit an application through the Learning Hub https://learninghub.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au/homepage/2262
• Provide appropriate supporting documentation (e.g. medical certificates or relevant professional documentation)
• Ensure applications are submitted as soon as possible, and in line with College timelines

Please note that travel, holidays, or poor planning are not considered valid grounds for AARA applications.

It is also important to follow the correct process when applying. Directly emailing individual staff members, rather than submitting through the Learning Hub, may result in delays or the information not reaching the appropriate staff in time for consideration.

For our senior students, it is particularly important to understand that all assessment contributes toward the attainment of the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). Failure to complete assessment, or to follow the correct AARA processes, may impact a student’s ability to achieve their QCE. We strongly encourage students to communicate with their teachers and the College as early as possible if they are experiencing difficulties.

Looking ahead to Term 2, Academic Conferences will be held on 30 April. Further information regarding booking times will be shared via email. These conferences are a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on their learning progress, set goals, and engage in meaningful conversations with their teachers. As this is a student-driven process at our College, reflection booklets are available on the Learning Hub and should be completed prior to the conference. We look forward to welcoming families and working together to support each student’s learning journey.

We appreciate your ongoing support in ensuring all students are able to demonstrate their learning under fair and equitable conditions, and we wish all families a safe and restful break.

Jacinta Collings

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC