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Dear Parents and Carers,
I would like to take the opportunity to formally welcome you to the 2025 school year. We have now been back at school for two full weeks and I can honestly say that we are excited to embark on another year of learning, growth, and success alongside you and your children/young people in your care. As always, we have started the year remaining faithful to living out our School Mission, ‘to create a dynamic educational environment within a caring, involved community centred on the Catholic ethos, valuing peace and pursuing excellence.’
Last week, I welcomed our students back and reinforced our commitment to making 2025 a year marked by an unwavering and unapologetic focus on learning growth. This year, we are refreshing our focus with a strong emphasis on positive engagement and connection with families, upholding high expectations for students both within and outside of the classroom and ensuring that they are challenged, encouraged, and given the tools they need to succeed. I also explained that we can not do this alone, that if we are going to ‘create a culture where everyone believes they need to improve, not because they are not good enough, but because they can be better’ (Dylan Wiliam), then we need to do it together - parents, students and teachers.
To support this, I reminded students of their responsibilities as members of our community—what it means to be a St John’s graduate, to be ready to learn, and to take ownership of their education. We reflected on the lessons of 2024, viewing both successes and challenges as opportunities for growth. And, while I understand that our young people may make mistakes along the way, I promised them that we will challenge those who repeatedly disrupt the learning environment and work with them and their families to ensure that they have the tools to improve.
Additionally, myself, Mrs Akai (Acting Curriculum Coordinator) and Mrs Murphy (Acting Assistant Principal) met with our Year 11 and 12 students to reinforce the expectations of post-compulsory schooling and renew their commitment to their learning at St John’s.
This was followed up by our Recognition Ceremony in Week three where we, as a whole community, gathered to celebrate the Year 12 cohort of 2024, in particular, the Distinguished Achievers who graciously joined us one last time. We also named the 2024 Dux of the year, Isaac Sleath. Isaac is to be congratulated on this amazing honour, which was a culmination of his dedication and hardwork. After our ceremony, the Year 11 and 12 students were given the opportunity to ask questions and learn from those who have successfully completed the Higher School Certificate and, to say I was impressed with the questions asked and the insights given would be an understatement - we are truly proud!
YEAR 12 2024 RECOGNITION ASSEMBLY
YEAR 12 2024 - Q & A SESSION
To further support our Year 11 and 12 students as they continue to embark on their Preliminary and HSC journey, we have introduced measures to help them engage in the extracurricular life of the school while maintaining a balanced academic focus:
- Year 11 engagement in extracurricular activities
- Term 1: Two events
- Term 2: Two events
- Term 3: Two events
- Year 12 engagement in extracurricular activities
- Term 1 (Term 4 Year 11/12): One event
- Term 2 (Term 1 2025): Two events
- Term 3 (Term 2 2025): One event
- Term 4 (Term 3 2025): One event
As a Catholic school in the Shoalhaven with a proud Indigenous culture, social justice initiatives and cultural programs will not be considered as ‘extracurricular activities.’ Additionally, if an event is successful and progresses to the next round, stage or zone, this will not be counted as an additional event.
Finally, I want to sincerely thank you for choosing to be part of our school community and for entrusting us with your child’s education. This is a responsibility we embrace wholeheartedly, and we look forward to a year of shared success.
Kind Regards
James Eirth
Acting Principal
WELCOME TO 2025
It has been a successful start to the 2025 school year. We extend a warm welcome to all of our new students and families, including the new Year 7 cohort. Thank you to all students who have returned to school with the correct uniform, showing pride in and a commitment to our school.
NEW AFFIRMATION / MERIT SYSTEM
We are beginning the year with the introduction of a new Affirmation System that aims to recognise student achievement across a range of areas. Students now have the opportunity to gain merits within three categories; Positive Behaviour, Learning and Engagement, and Community and Leadership. As students accumulate merits in each category they will be rewarded with Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Additionally, students that achieve a Gold Award will be eligible to receive a badge for that particular category. A student that achieves a badge in all three categories will be eligible for the Spirit of St John’s Award. The new system will be rolled out in 2025 and will be fully implemented in 2026 as merits accumulate and then reset at the end of each stage of learning. The following is a summary and flowchart of the Affirmation System:
Ms Sonia Diaz
Leader of Wellbeing ( 7 - 12 )
TERM 1 2025
WEEK 4 (WEEK B)
Monday 17 February: Staff Development (Pupil Free Day)
Monday 17 February: P&F AGM and General Meeting - 6pm Start
Wednesday 19 February: Year 10 RoSA and Pastoral Information Evening - 5pm Start in the school hall
Wednesday 19 February: Year 11 Information Evening - 6pm Start in the school hall
Thursday 20 February: Whole School Assembly
Friday 21 February: Whole School Swimming Carnival
WEEK 5 (WEEK A)
Tuesday 25 February: Working Bee -POSTPONED
Wednesday 26 February: St John's Open Night - Book a session
WEEK 6 (WEEK B)
Tuesday 4 March: Year 7 Immunisation Clinic
Tuesday 4 March: Shrove Tuesday
Wednesday 5 March: Ash Wednesday
Thursday 6 March: Whole school Assembly
YEAR 10 ROSA AND PASTORAL INFORMATION EVENING
YEAR 11 INFORMATION EVENING
ST JOHN'S 2025 OPEN NIGHT
St John's 2025 Open Night will be held on Wednesday 26 February 2025.
There will be 2 Tour Sessions: 4pm & 5:45pm, please book into a session time using the link below:
St John’s has a strong sporting culture and provides many representative sporting opportunities for students.
The Representative Sport Google Classroom is a platform where students can access information on Representative Sport. This digital notice board provides important information such as the registration to trial, trial dates, important dates and expectations.
Students must be a member of the Representative Sport Google Classroom to access the google forms.
2025 CSNSW REGISTRATIONS
Mrs E Gray
Sports Coordinator
Dear Parents and Students of Year 7,
It is with great excitement that we welcome you to St John’s School and to the beginning of your high school journey! This is a significant step, and we are thrilled to have you as part of our school community.
Starting Year 7 is an exciting time filled with new opportunities, experiences, and friendships. We understand that this transition can feel both exciting and overwhelming, but rest assured, our dedicated teachers and staff are here to support you every step of the way. Our goal is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student feels valued, challenged, and encouraged to achieve their best.
Over the coming weeks, students will settle into their new routines, explore a broad and engaging curriculum, and get to know their teachers and peers. There will be plenty of opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities, from sports teams to creative clubs, leadership programs, and service initiatives. We encourage every student to embrace these opportunities, step out of their comfort zones, and make the most of everything St John’s has to offer.
For parents, we understand that this transition is just as important for you as it is for your child. Communication and partnership between home and school are key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable Year 7 experience. Your child’s PALS teacher will be the first point of contact for any questions or concerns. Emails have been sent to parents listing these teachers, so please reach out if needed. We encourage you to stay connected with us through our newsletters, parent information evenings, and the various school events throughout the year.
On Tuesday students will receive their new timetables. These will also be printed for students to place in their Diary. Students and parents can also access these through compass. While we understand that it may be challenging for some students with new teachers and peers in their classes but we are here to help support them with these challenges.
To our Year 7 students—be curious, be courageous, and be kind. This is your time to grow, discover your passions, and become part of a community that cares about your success and well-being. We can’t wait to see all that you will accomplish!
FIRST DAY
CATHOLIC CULTURE DAY
Welcome to St John’s. Welcome to your future!
‘Be gentle and humble in heart.'
Warm regards,
Sophie Daley
Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing
WELCOME TO A NEW SCHOOL YEAR
I have had a name change! Last year, I was known as the Year Coordinator, but I am now called the Leader of Wellbeing - Year 8. This change reflects my role in supporting the overall wellbeing, engagement, and development of our students.
A warm welcome also to Mr Jamie Whatling, who is the Stage 4 Assistant Leader of Wellbeing. He will be working closely with our Year 7 and Year 8 students to provide additional support and guidance.
GETTING ORGANISED
To ensure each school day runs smoothly, we encourage students to develop the habit of packing their bags every night. This includes charging laptops, placing their student diary and hat in their bag, and organising all the books and gear needed for the following day. Your support at home is invaluable, and we encourage you to discuss this routine with your child. Finding a designated space at home for school essentials can also help keep everything organised and in check.
Students should now be aware, in collaboration with their PDHPE teachers, of the designated days for wearing their sports or normal uniform. We recommend displaying this information in a visible location at home for easy reference to ensure they are always prepared.
CARNIVALS
INSTRUCTIONAL PRACTICE
WE ARE HERE TO SUPPORT YOUR CHILD
2025 YEAR 8 PALS TEACHERS
|
Benedict |
Ms Angelina Ramognini/Ms Ashleigh Boreland |
Mr Todd Wilson |
|
Chisholm |
Mr Mark Malady |
Ms Kylie Hetherington |
|
MacKillop |
Ms Abbey Simis |
Mr David Comensoli |
|
McCabe |
Mr George Kyriacou |
Ms Ashlee Berryman |
|
Polding |
Mr Jacob Stephenson |
Mr Ziggy Wolinski |
|
Purcell |
Mr Denis Smith |
Ms Breanna McGaughey |
Thank you for your ongoing support. Myself and the team look forward to working together to make this a successful year for Year 8!
Ms Abbey Simis
Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing
Therefore as students set goals for the upcoming academic year, many will naturally focus on achieving a certain grade. However, I encourage them to set goals that include a regular and wide reading pattern. This will enable them to grow academically across many subjects, not simply English. I also encourage them to enter additional reading and writing competitions that will be advertised in daily notices and the newsletter. This dedication to reading will be of more benefit to a student and will allow them to be exposed to styles and language otherwise unknown.Of course students will be reading short and longer texts in English but going beyond what is required in class can only enhance the skill development of a student.
Ms Michelle Selmes
English Leader of Learning
RUBY CLADINGBOWL - YEAR 7
1st in 100m with a new PB
1st in 200m with a new PB
ANZAC COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM
St John's have been named as a recipient of 'The Anzac Community Grants Program' (ACGP) which provides small grants for a range of projects that commemorate and educate New South Wales communities about the service and sacrifices of current and former military servicemen and servicewomen.
We have been awarded $1800 to make a garden with murals in our cafe area to show respect and honour to our past and current serving military members.
HMAS ALBATROSS OPEN DAY - MARCH 1 2025
Mrs Julie Lawrence
Defence School Mentor
A warm welcome to all our students and families, both new and returning! We are especially excited to welcome our new teachers and staff to the St. John's community. We hope this year brings you growth, success, and a sense of belonging. May 2025 be a fantastic year filled with learning, friendships, and wonderful memories.
Wishing you all an amazing start to the school year!
Welcome to Our New Year 7 Students and Families!
We hope you’ve had a fantastic start to the year and that 2025 brings you success, growth, and wonderful experiences at St. John’s. We are excited to have you as part of our school community and look forward to an amazing journey together.
We would also like to congratulate the following students for being chosen to receive a P&C voucher for Lowes at the Year 7 Information Night held at the end of last term:
Orlando Lajdes, Mitchell Allmark, Flynn Kelly, Maddison Wallace, Ella Walsh, Chalia Young, Seth Knight, Bonni Sexton, Lylah Walz, Darcy Broadhurst, Allison Edwards, Liuxa Lunn-Farr, Joe Porter, Lila Green, Edward Worsnip, Amarni Rapicano, Hayden Nellestein, Kaitlyn Imms, Isla Bailie, Thomas Hickmott.
P&F AGM & First Meeting – Get Involved!
The first P&F Meeting of the year will take place alongside the Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Monday, 17th February at 6 PM. During the AGM, all positions will be declared vacant and open for nominations. Joining the P&F is a fantastic way to meet other parents, get involved in the school community, and have a say in events happening at St. John’s. If you’re considering getting involved and would like to learn more about the committee roles, below is an explanation of each position. We’d love to see you there!
P&F Executive Committee positions available for nomination in 2025 include;
President - The P&F President presides at all meetings and provides leadership and direction for the Association by working cooperatively and collaboratively with the Principal and Parish Priest.
Vice-President - assists the President and fulfils the duties of the President when the President is unavailable.
Assistant Vice-President - understudies and shares the Vice-President’s workload; observes the roles and duties of the committee with a view to volunteering for any role at some point in the future.
Treasurer - is responsible for ensuring that all the financial dealings of the Association are carried out in accordance with the constitution.
Secretary - manages the day-to-day communications and records of the Association; organises meetings, records accurate draft minutes.
Assistant Secretary - understudies and shares the Secretary’s workload; observes the roles and duties of the committee with a view to volunteering for any role at some point in the future.
Parent Liaison Officer - keeps the parent body informed through the school newsletter and website of all P&F events and functions. They contact parent volunteers for various school events such as sporting carnivals, exam supervision and general helpers.
Mrs Vanessa Cladingbowl
P&F Parent Liaison & Publicity Officer.
SCHOOL PROCEDURES
Dear Parents / Carers
Below you will find some every day procedures that will be helpful as parents and carers to learn the daily routine of the school. With a student population this year of over 950, you can understand that routine is very important to the smooth running of the school.
The following are a list of procedures, which if followed correctly, will enable us to serve you in a friendly, efficient, professional manner at all times as well as allow students to focus on their learning.
Early Leavers:
If you need to collect your child early from school, please send a note in with them in the morning, which they will bring to the office before school. Students' diary will be stamped with an Early Leavers Pass providing them permission to leave class. They will meet you at the office and there is no waiting for anyone. It is very difficult to get a child out of class on short notice. It is a disruption for the teachers and the rest of the class. If a student is at sport, or doing a practical class then they can be difficult to locate. If you find you need to pick your child up urgently please ring the school before you come in to give us time to locate them.
It would be appreciated if any change to after school travel arrangements to be communicated to your child is received by the office no later than 2.30pm.
School times:
Please ensure your child arrives at school on time. School begins at 8.30am each morning. If they are late they must report to the office to be signed in or they will be marked absent on the roll.
Lost Property:
A real concern is the amount of lost property that comes into the office. There are a number of uniform items each year that end up being sent to St Vincent de Paul as they have no names on them and students do not come to claim them. We cannot return items if they are not clearly labelled. Please put your child's name on all of their uniform items, especially blazers and sports track suits. Hats are another item that often comes to the office with no name. Do not think because they are now in high school they will not lose things!
Illness:
If your child becomes ill during the day you will be phoned to come and collect them. Students who are not well enough to be in class must go home. Please ensure we always have your updated telephone numbers. Students are not to use their mobile phones to ring you if they are sick. Medication (including Paracetamol) will only be administered if supplied to the office with a Medical Consent form.
Afternoon pick up:
If you are picking your child up from school in the afternoon, please do not park in the staff car park at the front of the school. The only exception is if you are collecting a student from the learning support class.
Valuables at school:
Students are encouraged not to bring valuables or money to school. The school is not responsible for loss or theft of valuables whilst students are at school. All students are advised to keep valuables with them at all times, either in their pockets or in a pencil case in the classroom. Due to WHS regulations all bags have to be left outside of classrooms.
Electronic Devices:
Mobile phones, iPods, iPhones, MP3s and other electronic devices are permitted to be used before and after school however they are not to be used during school hours and must be switched off. If a student is found to be using these items they will be confiscated. The first confiscation is classed as their one and only warning, they will have the item returned to them at the end of the day. The second confiscation will result in the phone/electronic device being stored in the school office and the student will be required to attend a playground withdrawal before collecting their device the next day. Third and consequent confiscations will be treated as an act of defiance and dealt with accordingly. Parents are asked not to phone their children on their mobiles or to send them text messages during the day. If you need to get an urgent message to your child please ring the school office and we will relay the message for you.
Excursions/Events:
Payments and consent must be submitted before the due date on Compass or the student may not be permitted to attend the excursion. The office will not accept payments or consent past the due date without prior approval from the Assistant Principal.
If there is any concern over the cost of an excursion or the ability to pay, please contact the Principal’s Secretary via the school office. No child will be excluded from any compulsory excursion due to money constraints, however students or parents must inform their coordinator or appropriate person before the due date.
Family Information:
Please ensure that you advise the office of any change in family circumstances or contact details including email addresses, telephone numbers and residential and postal addresses. This will assist the school with the communication process throughout the year. Important messages are sent out via email so it is essential that the school is informed of current email addresses. Carers of students who travel on school buses are required to update address details online via the Transport NSW website, apps.transport.nsw.
Newsletter:
The school newsletter will be sent via Compass to parents every second Friday and available via the school website.
School Policies:
Please refer to the school website (via the Admin menu) or student diary, for school policies regarding jewellery, shoes, uniform and the consequences involved in non compliance with these policies.
Please do not hesitate to contact the school via email, info@sjedow.catholic.
As a new school year begins, so do countless opportunities to explore, grow, and shape your future! Whether you're considering university, apprenticeships, or jumping straight into the workforce, this year is full of chances to discover your passions and develop valuable skills.
Embrace new experiences, take on challenges, and start building the stepping stones towards a successful and fulfilling pathway. Stay tuned for exciting career events, workshops, and opportunities to help you on your journey.
Let’s make this year one of growth, learning, and opportunity! I look forward to working alongside you.
Ms Marcia Arenas
Transition and Pathways Specialist
arenasm01@dow.catholic.edu.au
2025 - Be ready to learn!
Feel like you’re spending hours studying but not getting anywhere? You’re not alone. Lots of students struggle to find study techniques that work for them. The good news is that there are some proven ways to study that can help you learn better and remember more. Let’s look at some different study techniques for high school students, and see if there are any you might want to try.
10 Questions to ask your future self
We get it – thinking about your future can be hard. But it’s important. In fact, thinking about our future goals can help us decide the actions we should be taking right now. You don’t need to work out every tiny detail of your future right now – even if you do, sometimes things happen that you don’t expect, and that’s OK. But having a plan can help you navigate any bumps along the way. So to help you start planning, here are 10 questions to ask your future self.
UPCOMING EVENTS
UOW Discovery Day - Thursday, 20 February
Discovery Day at UOW give Year 12 students the opportunity to experience firsthand what a day at university is like.
Students who have registered must ensure they organise their timetable for the day by Thursday, 13 February.
UOW Future Me - Applications are now open
Program overview
The program runs after-school for six weeks in Term 1, 2025, commencing on 4 March, and finishing on 10 April.
Students will attend six 90-minute sessions online or at their local UOW or CUC campus. In these sessions, student will learn about pathways to university, connect with peers, and hone their skills ready for Early Admission. Students who complete the program and apply for UOW Early Admission will be flagged with UOW Admissions.
Applications close Sunday, 23 February
NSW Dairy Industry Immersion - Years 10, 11 &12
RIEP is proud to support Dairy NSW and Shoalhaven Council with a 2-day Dairy industry exposure program. Dairy NSW and TAFE have designed the program to provide insights into working in the industry with a view to students taking up SBATs, Full-time traineeships, and other work with local Dairy employers in the Shoalhaven.
Dates: 25th & 26th March.
Course Availability: Total of 15 Places across the Shoalhaven
Location: TAFE Yallah / Dairy Farm Albion Park (Transport will be provided both days from TAFE Nowra)
EOI posted on the Careers Google Classroom must be completed to be considered.
Closing Date: 21st Feb 2025
NSW Mining Careers - Book now!
Why Attend?
- FREE dinner for all attendees
- Industry showcase featuring displays from local mining employers, universities, and training providers
- Inspiring guest speakers sharing insights into career opportunities and industry trends
Who Should Attend?
- Students eager to explore career opportunities in mining
- Career advisers seeking up-to-date industry knowledge to support their students
- Parents/carers who want to guide and support their child’s career journey
Navy Aviation Prospect Scheme (NAPS) - Year 10
2024 SJE NAPS Participants
Prospects Scheme (NAPS) offers high school students (Year 10) aged 15-18 an insight into Navy Aviation careers. The program is broken into three sections; Quicklook, NextStep and Longlook.
The program is designed to provide each Student with a continual insight into FAA and Defence careers with an overarching intent of raising the profile of the FAA within the community; generating prospective applicants by encouraging students to consider a career in the FAA; providing a service to the community through team building and leadership training and fostering civic virtue.
The number of places is limited and to be considered for the program the Expression of Interest posted on the Careers Classroom must be filled out by Thursday, February 28.
Careers in Health Work Experience Program
After last year’s success, the Careers in Health Work Experience Program is running again this year.
Shoalhaven Hospital dates:
Term 2 - Wednesday, June 4, 11 & 18
Term 3 - Wednesday September 10, 11 & 24
Term 4 - Tuesday October 11, 18 & November 25
Applications open Wednesday, 12 March and close Wednesday, 26 March
Students are to fill the EOI on the Careers Classroom and must Apply here
Skills and qualifications you can get whilst at school
Getting ready for life after school doesn’t mean you have to wait until graduation. There are lots of valuable skills and qualifications you can start building right now while you’re still at school. Whether you’re looking to boost your resume, explore potential career paths, or just learn something new, there are plenty of options available – let’s take a look
The changing nature of careers
Careers look different to how they used to – once upon a time you picked uni, a trade, or a job, and that was pretty much it for the rest of your working life. Now, tradies get degrees in management, professionals take short courses to round out their qualifications, and around 39% of students work and study at the same time.
Apprenticeships and traineeships are great because you generally don’t need a lot of skills or knowledge when you start, and you’ll get quality on-the-job training as well as classroom based training. Plus, you’ll be earning an income all along the way.
Skilling Australia Foundation found in 2019 that VET graduates had:
- Higher starting salaries – $56k vs $54k for uni grads
- A higher rate of employment – 78% vs 68% for uni grads
- Apprentices had a graduate employment rate of 92%
What’s the difference between an apprenticeship and traineeship?
The main difference is usually the industry – apprenticeships tend to be for more technical trades, while trainees might learn business skills or job-specific skills they need before they can be fully employed. Traineeships are also generally shorter than apprenticeships.
Finding a traineeship or apprenticeship can be a great choice – here’s why:
- You’ll enjoy satisfying and practical work, and in many trades you’ll avoid being stuck behind a desk.
- Get paid while you learn, and start living in the ‘real world’ sooner.
- You’ll probably have a job before you finish, and if you do move employers, you’ll have recognisable skills that make you more employable.
- You generally don’t need great marks to get started.
There are also usually a range of incentives for businesses to take on trainees and apprentices, which means more are available and there will be lots of support to make sure you finish your training.
How do I get started?
First, put together a resume (also known as a list of good stuff you’ve done). Include everything, and get it checked by someone who loves you (they’ll point out the good things you’ve missed) and someone who’s good with writing, like a teacher or family member
Finally, start job searching. You need to go and find them. But it doesn’t have to be difficult – there are heaps of apprenticeships and traineeships in just about every area, including regional and remote places.
Here’s how to search for an apprenticeship or traineeship
Let people know you’re looking. Tell your teachers, friends, or parents (and their friends). Word of mouth is still a great way to get a job.
Search job sites. Simply googling apprenticeships or traineeships in your area will give you a good start. You might also like to try searching popular job sites like SEEK or Indeed.
Look at government websites. Most countries usually have a government website built especially for apprentices and trainees to look for opportunities, including support options and other handy info. Here are some government sites you might like to browse:
- Australian Apprentices
- New Zealand Apprenticeships
- Apprenticeships UK
- Apprenticeship USA
- Job Bank Canada
Find out more
So, if you’d like to earn a good wage, enjoy a secure and rewarding job, and earn while you learn, getting an apprenticeship or traineeship could be the right option for you. And we can guarantee it’ll be a whole lot more fun than spending your life on the couch.
If you’d like more help, or any advice on finding an apprenticeship talk to Ms Arenas. Or you might like to read more resources on the website here.
TAFE
Ai Group Apprentice and Trainee Centre host apprentices across NSW and are a proud partner to more than 200 host employers.
The Australian Government is improving access to Australian Apprenticeships and helping build a more diverse workforce. See if you're eligible for additional support. The Australian Government provides additional support for:
- Women in Trades
- First Nations Australians
- People with disability
Find out what support you can get as part of your apprenticeship
WOLLONGONG TAFE
Wollongong TAFE is offering an exciting study and career pathway for school leavers. Our department offers a Certificate IV in Residential Drafting—an ideal program for students interested in design, drafting, and the building industry.
This course has been identified as addressing a critical skill shortage, eligible students may have the opportunity to access fee-free places.
For details go to the Careers Google Classroom, contact Ms Arenas or email jeffrey.poole3@tafensw.edu.au
From TAFE to Google!
Google software engineer and musician Meredith Lane started her study with a Certificate IV and says there’s a tech career path for everyone. Find out more through the link attached.
5 Free TAFE courses for a rewarding career in Science
A TAFE qualification could help you transition from school to uni, or it could get you the entry-level position you need to kickstart your dream career in science. Science is a diverse area and there are many hands-on vocations that you can work in with just a certificate-level qualification. Or, you could choose vocational education and training (VET) as a stepping stone to a Bachelor of Science.
TAFE - I Am Finishing School This Year Info Page
Whatever you're interested in, TAFE NSW has a pathway to get you there.
With hundreds of courses to choose from, including degrees, we can help you find your passion.
Find answers to questions like:
- When do enrolment periods close?
- What are the semester and term dates?
- Do you offer payment plans?
- What is a fee concession and exemption and who is eligible?
- Can I study a degree at TAFE?
- What course will get me into university?
TAFE DEGREES
Fee free apprenticeships are a great way for students to launch their careers
There’s never been a better time to start an apprenticeship in NSW. The NSW Government is paying the course cost for 100,000 new apprenticeships – meaning apprentices undertaking a government funded apprenticeship no longer face a student fee of up to $2000. Apprenticeships are a great career path-way. They combine on-the-job training with classroom study to give you the skills and experience employers are looking for. Apprenticeships generally take around 3-4 years to complete, and apprentices earn a salary while they learn. There are more than 120 different apprenticeship courses available in NSW, in a range of industries including construction, cooking, aviation and automotive.
Supporting You Every Step of the Way with TAFE NSW
Get the help you need to succeed
The TAFE NSW Counselling and Career Development Service is free and confidential* and is designed to help you succeed in your studies at TAFE NSW, as well as in your chosen career.
Prospective TAFE NSW students are able to access the service to assist with course choice decisions and career planning.
Students enrolled with TAFE NSW are able to access a range of services to assist in career development and personal support.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/counselling-career-development-services
I Am Finishing School This Year Info Page
Whatever you're interested in, TAFE NSW has a pathway to get you there.
With hundreds of courses to choose from, including degrees, we can help you find your passion.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/open-day/i-am-finishing-school-this-year
TAFE NSW Degrees and Undergrad Certificates
You don't need an ATAR to study a degree with TAFE NSW, but you will graduate with a qualification that will change your future.
Study a Bachelor degree, post graduate or higher education qualification with TAFE NSW, and graduate with strong theoretical knowledge, practical experience and industry connections that will give you a head start on your career.
https://www.tafensw.edu.au/degrees
TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses help students build practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, and count toward school outcomes, with some courses contributing towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
TAFE NSW TVET Guide 2024
Take the quiz to see if you may be eligible to commence an application to the NSW Police Force. ‘Aquatic Rescue Sequence’ certification: Applicants are required to provide certification of successful completion of the Aquatic Rescue Sequence. First Aid certification: Applicants are required to supply certification of completion of an approved ‘Apply First Aid’ course with at least 12 months currency remaining on certification. Typing certificate. Applicants are required to supply a recognized certificate of typing proficiency equivalent or greater than 25 words per minute at 98 percent accuracy.
APPRENTICESHIPS, TRAINEESHIPS AND CADETSHIPS
ACFA Cabinet Making Apprenticeships
ACFA is a Registered Training Organisation delivering MSF31113 Certificate III in Cabinet Making (RTO 90432). Their Workplace-Based Training Model brings a unique one-on-one experience plus the flexibility to be enrolled as a new apprentice all year round.
Expression of Interest for Electrical Apprenticeships
The apprenticeship lasts for a total of 4 years. For the first three years, you will be required to work four days on site to gather on-the-job experience, and one day undertaking technical studies. The fourth year will consist of only on-the-job training.
Job Hunting Tips
Finding an Apprenticeship Searching and applying for an Australian Apprenticeship is very much like hunting for any job. An employer has to create a vacancy and decide to use Australian Apprenticeships as a way to employ and train their staff. The following steps will explain the process to get an Australian Apprenticeship from the preparation stage, to the time you begin your training
Automotive Apprenticeships - Vacancies
The automotive industry has changed substantially through the last decade to become a respected and financially secure career path. Any student that enjoys problem solving and working with their hands will thrive in automotive and has the opportunity to be a part of transformative change we haven't seen since vehicles replaced the horse and cart.
Do you aspire to be a builder?
Register your interest for the course starting 27 November Want to be a carpenter? This is your best first step. Master Builders will help prepare you to become the best 1st-year carpentry apprentice. This 3-week entry level training program provides an introduction into both the industry and a carpentry trade prior to commencing an apprenticeship.
Pre-apprenticeship Builder
Do you aspire to become a brickie?
Offer you the opportunity to study and earn an income while undertaking a qualification. It gives you the chance to learn new skills while getting paid. It can be done full-time or while you are at school through a School Based Apprenticeship. You can use your qualification to work anywhere in Australia and around the world.
Brickies Apprenticeships
Transport for NSW Apprenticeships and Traineeships
Transport for NSW currently have a number of Apprenticeship and Traineeships open for 2024 in both metro and regional areas. Currently on offer are:
- Business Traineeships
- Bridge Construction Apprenticeship
- Heavy Diesel Mechanic Apprenticeship
- Project Management Traineeships
- Electrical Apprenticeship
- Civil Construction Apprenticeship
- Painting and Blasting Traineeship
A number of trainee roles are also available
https://jobs.transport.nsw.gov.au/go/Train-Crew-and-Customer-Service-Jobs/7831310/
Handy link for a range of job opportunities: Jobs Transport NSW
JOB VACANCIES !
McDonald’s are hiring!
Year 8-11 students (14 years of age and over)
The opportunity is for all 3 restaurants, South Nowra, Bomaderry and Nowra Central depending on where you want to work. Type Maccas Jobs or you can also apply at:
careers.mcdonalds.com/australia.
Council Jobs!
Local Government NSW offers hundreds of jobs and diverse career paths. Across professional, administrative, trade and outdoor roles. Learn more about the type of work, qualifications required and the jobs available now in over 100 councils across NSW & others interstate
https://www.careersatcouncil.com.au/
Woolworths
At Woolworths Group, we create better experiences together for a better tomorrow. Our diverse group of retail businesses are some of Australia's most recognised and trusted brands, and our team are at the heart of everything we do.
STATIONARY ITEMS FOR SALE AT THE SCHOOL CANTEEN
The following items are available to purchase at the St John's school canteen.
CANTEEN MENU 
Our school canteen is run by a full time Supervisor and a part time assistant. They always need volunteers to help. At least two volunteers are needed every day to man the canteen. If you would like to assist in the canteen please contact the school or fill out the Parent/Carer Volunteer Form that was sent out on Wednesday 12 February.
TERM 1 2025
We are currently organising our canteen volunteer roster for Term 1 2025, the canteen requires two helpers every day, if you are able to assist on one or more days please contact the school office on 4423 1666 or email the school on info@sjedow.catholic.edu.au
Alternatively fill in the form on the school website under canteen in the Parent Info section.
BELOW IS THE CANTEEN ROSTER FOR TERM 1 2025
CULBURRA DOLPHINS JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE - REGISTER NOW
NOWRA WARRIORS JRLFC - REGISTRATIONS OPEN
ST GEORGES BASIN FOOTBALL CLUB - REGISTER NOW
BOMADERRY JUNIOR AFL - COME & TRY - FEBRUARY 20
