Newsletter Term 2 > Week 2

Easter and Pope Francis

We returned to school in the season of Easter, a time when we celebrate 50 days of the hope that comes from Jesus’ example of sacrifice, service, and love. The passing of Pope Francis has left us with a legacy of service and joy. He worked tirelessly to reform the Church, grounding it in compassion, social justice, and a commitment to those on the margins of society through mercy and inclusion. Throughout his papacy, he urged the Church to face modern global challenges: poverty, migration, and climate change, with courage and faith.

As I reflect on how the Pope’s work speaks to our students, I can’t help but feel proud of our student leaders and the way they conducted themselves at the Port Pirie ANZAC Day Dawn Service. They showed great respect and responsibility in honouring the memory of our ANZACs.

I am impressed by the initiative and compassion shown from so many of our students through their involvement in causes that uplift those on the margins and promote justice. My thanks go to the students and staff who have engaged in the Philippines Immersion preparation, the Vinnies Winter Sleepout, and Do It for Dolly Day. This is important work that truly matters.

Next week, we will celebrate Catholic Education Week with all of Catholic Education South Australia. In this Jubilee Year of Hope and in our very own 50th anniversary year, we are given a special opportunity to honour our past, give thanks for who we are today, and look to the future with hope. Together, we continue striving for growth and excellence, supporting our young people to become compassionate citizens and strong leaders for our world.

Building Culture of Respectful Relationships

This term we have our revised Bullying and Harassment Prevention and Response Procedure in use which was recently ratified by the College Board. This updated procedure reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all students and staff. We encourage our community to familiarise themselves with the changes and continue working together to uphold the College’s values and navigate relationships within our school community.  

It is timely that we have been fortunate to have Catholic School Parents SA offer us the opportunity to host Madhavi Nawana Parker, Director of Positive Minds Australia on Wednesday 25 June, 6.00pm in the BGC at Bosco Campus. Madhavi is one of Australia’s leading experts on parenting, wellbeing and resilience and her talk will focus on Helping children and teenagers respond to friendship difficulties and bullying.

The presentation will examine how social and friendship challenges are common. Learning how to get along with others, regulate emotions and impulses when socially isolated or threatened and respond proactively to bullying are crucial life skills. This workshop will help parents and professionals identify the difference between bullying and social clumsiness, providing practical and constructive ways for young people to cope with confidence and resilience. We hope to see many of you there to hear the wisdom of this knowledgeable professional. Please register your attendance: Stronger Families- A Positive Parenting Conference.

We look forward to welcoming back our principal Sandra Hewson after her Long Service Leave on Monday.

Mrs Katie Pole, Acting Principal

Easter and the transition of the Papacy

In the midst of celebrating the resurrection of Jesus and his triumph over death and suffering, we are also remembering the life of Pope Francis and his transformation into eternal rest. Both campuses honoured his life with a liturgy, where students celebrated the successes and transformations of the Church under Francis’s papacy. There has also been much discussion in the yard about the way forward for the Church. Interest in the election of a new Pope has led to much research and questions regarding the process. We received the news early this morning of the election of the first American Pope in history who has taken the name Pope Leo XIV (the fourteenth). Created a cardinal only two years ago by Pope Francis, the Cardinal Robert Prevost was born in Chicago, Illinois. He will be the 267th Pope following in the footsteps of the successors of St Peter as Bishop of Rome. We pray for his new role as leader of the Catholic Church and for his future in bringing the message and mission of Jesus Christ to the world.

Family Mass – Mothers Day 

Come and join us for the Term 2 Parish Family Mass on Mothers Day (Sunday 10 May) in the Cathedral at 5.00pm. We will be looking to encourage those families that are preparing children for the Sacrament of Confirmation to take the opportunity of showing their commitment to the sacramental programme and celebrate the treasures that are our mothers and mother figures in the Church. 

Project Compassion 

The Big Water Walk was a fitting end to the Project Compassion campaign for the Lenten season at the end of last term. Through that event alone, we matched the funds raised throughout the previous weeks’ activities. Overall, over $4,000 was raised by the school towards projects in third-world countries that are allowing people to earn a living and become prosperous and sustainable for the future. A big thank you to all who have given generously to this campaign. 

Vinnies Sleepout 

Yesterday, our Year 11 students prepared for a big night of sleeping rough. This demonstrated to them the suffering experienced by so many people in Australia at the moment who face homelessness every night. Raising awareness of this issue has led to a generous flow of donations to pledge to the Year 11s that slept rough last night. It passed the $10,000 mark very early on in the campaign and is now sitting at approximately $15,000 (online and group fundraisers). Raising such a significant total is a credit to the Year 11 students.

There is still an opportunity to donate if you haven’t done so already. Please visit the link: St Mark’s College, Port Pirie 2025 to make an online donation. Thank you to all of you who have encouraged our Year 11s in their fundraising campaign. 

Sacramental Programme 

This weekend, we commence the Commitment Weekend at Weekend Masses for children preparing for Confirmation this year. There will be reminders coming out through Operoo to remind families about their attendance at Weekend Masses over the next few weeks. This will prepare students to becoming participating and contributing members of our Catholic Parish Community. 

The Confirmation Workshop on Monday 19 May will have time to speak to some of our parishioners with a strong practising faith, their experience with the sacraments and how they see their importance in their lives as Catholics in the community. Parents and sponsors are welcome to come along to support their child as they prepare their Confirmation banner from 5:30 – 7:00 pm. 

Golden Jubilee Mass 

On Thursday of Week 4, the College will be celebrating with a Mass and Activities afternoon the 50th anniversary of the establishment of St Mark’s College from the amalgamation of the Catholic Schools in Port Pirie. Our celebrant will be the Bishop Karol Kulczycki (Bishop of the Diocese of Port Pirie), supported by our Parish Priest, Fr Jimmy, along with Deacon Gary, who is well known by our Benedict students. 

Please be on the lookout for an Operoo in the next week about the finer details to prepare children for this significant celebration. 

The Witness 
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Southern Cross 
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Mr Isaac Ellis, APRIM

Key Dates: Term 2, Week 3 and 4

• Mothers’ Day Family Mass
  ​Sunday 11 May, 5.00pm at St Mark’s Cathedral

• Winter Uniform
  ​Winter uniform is to be worn from Monday 12 May for students in Years 3-12.
   
• Little Lions Session 9
  Monday 12 May, 8.30 – 11.30am
   
• Mini Mark’s Playgroup – STEM Discovery
  Tuesday 13 May, 8.45am – 10.15am
   
• Principal’s Tour – Benedict Campus
  Wednesday 14 May, 9.15 – 10.15am
  Register here.
   
• R-6 Cathedral Mass
  St Mark’s Cathedral, 12.00pm All Welcome!
   
• Walk Safely to School Day
  Friday 16 May, wear your House Tops
   
• 2 Red Excursion
  Friday 16 May
   
• Little Lions Session 10
  Friday 16 May, 8.30 – 11.30am
   
• Little Lions Session 10
  Monday 19 May, 8.30 – 11.30am
   
• Confirmation Workshop
  Monday 19 May, 5.30 – 7.00pm, Good Samaritan Hall
   
• Mini Mark’s Playgroup – Teddy Bears Picnic and Outdoor Adventures
  Tuesday 20 May, 8.45am – 10.15am
  Children, please bring your favourite toy or teddy! Caregivers, please provide a snack and drink for your own child so we can enjoy a picnic at the end of playgroup.
   
• 50th Anniversary of St Mark’s College R-12 Mass 
  Our Lady Help of Christians Feast Day 
  Thursday 22 May, 11.30am, St Mark’s Sports Centre
   
• Interschool Soccer Carnival 
  Friday 23 May for Year 5 and 6 students
   
• 2 Green Excursion
  Friday 23 May
   
• Little Lions Session 11
  Friday 23 May, 8.30 – 11.30am

• Great Book Swap
  Donations due Friday 23 May

Intervention Success: Spelling Mastery Making a Difference

We are excited to share the success of our Spelling Mastery program in Years 3-6, which has been effectively implemented as part of our intervention strategies to support student learning. This structured program has provided targeted instruction, ensuring students develop essential spelling skills through research-based techniques.

Sessions run 5 days a week from 9.00am - 9.25am. It is vital that your child is at school and ready for the day before 9.00am. This allows them to be settled and engage fully in the content which is fast paced and targeted.

Since its introduction, Spelling Mastery has helped students build confidence in their spelling abilities by focusing on phonemic awareness, word structure, and repeated practice. Teachers and support staff have observed noticeable improvements in student outcomes, with many showing increased accuracy and retention in their spelling.

Intervention programs like this are a vital part of ensuring all students have access to the support they need to succeed. We are proud of the progress students have made and look forward to continuing this approach to strengthen literacy skills across the school.

If you would like more information about Spelling Mastery or how intervention programs are supporting student growth, please reach out to your child’s classroom teacher.

Mrs Sarah Freer, Deputy Principal, Benedict Campus

Key Dates: Term 2, Week 3 and 4

• Mothers’ Day Family Mass
  Sunday 11 May, 5.00pm at St Mark’s Cathedral
   
• ​Winter Uniform
  Winter uniform is to be worn from Monday 12 May for students in Years 3-12.
   
• Principal’s Tour – Bosco Campus
  Monday 12 May, 4.30 – 5.30pm
  Register here.
   
• Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9 Learning Conversations
  Wednesday 14 May, 3.40 – 6.30pm
  St Mark’s Sports Centre
   
• Year 10 Immunisation
  Thursday 15 May
   
• Uni Hub Employment and Careers Expo
  Wednesday 21 May
   
• 50th Anniversary of St Mark’s College R-12 Mass
  Our Lady Help of Christians Feast Day
  Thursday 22 May, 11.30am, St Mark’s Sports Centre
   
• Great Book Swap
  Donations due Friday 23 May

We are two weeks into the second term and each of our student cohorts are busy engaging with a variety of focuses for learning this term.

• Our Year 12 students begin the period of finalising content, completing external tasks/projects and commencing exam preparation.
   
• Year 11 students have been focussing on their work to support Homelessness and engaging with important Child Protection Curriculum topics including the Road Awareness Program presented by the Metropolitan Fire Service which highlights the consequences of poor decision making on the road.
   
• Our Year 10 students are heavily focussed on careers and futures this term as they complete their Exploring Identities and Futures course, participate in Career Expos, prepare for Work Experience and Participate in their Careers Camp.
   
• As part of their topic of Genetics in Science, Year 9 students and currently undertaking an assessment task on Alien Genetics to stretch their understanding of the Scientific concepts. I am intrigued to see the completed work.
   
• Year 8s began the term with a River Journey presentation from Flinders University. This presentation supports students to reflect on their futures, personal attributes, and consider pathways to preferred careers.
   
• Our Year 7 students undertake the Rock and Water program as part of WRAP this term providing these young people a pathway to self-awareness, and increased self-confidence and social functioning.

Knockout Sports

The first of the 2025 Statewide Knockout competitions begin this term. Students will soon have the opportunity to sign up to be considered for different team selections. Representing the College in these events requires more than just showing interest. Earning a place in the team requires a commitment to all areas of College life and meeting College expectations. Places are earned from consistent attendance, a strong work ethic, and the ability to work as part of a team. Staff consider not only athletic skill but also attitude, behaviour, and sportsmanship when selecting players. Students are reminded that each position on a team is competitive, and selection reflects a student’s readiness to represent the College with pride and respect.

ANZAC Spirit Adventure for Lili

Visiting Vietnam was an eye-opening experience that I will never forget. As a part of the study tour, I had the opportunity to engage with the country’s history, culture and people that went far beyond tourism. From exploring historical sites relating to the ANZAC’s to making new connections with both teachers and students, I was able to grow both personally and academically. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey that I will cherish forever. - Lili Bowman, Year 11

Mrs Katie Pole, Deputy Principal, Bosco Campus

Winter Uniform

Students from Years 3 – 12 are required to wear the winter uniform from Monday 12 May. All the information about what to wear as part of the winter uniform can be found in our Uniform Guidelines.

New College Jacket

A reminder that students are required to have the new College Jacket to wear with both the formal winter uniform and activewear uniform. While the jackets are available at Mensland and MES Streetwear the current supply is somewhat limited. If your child is unable to find their size at this time, they are permitted to wear the existing wool jumper without a jacket as part of their formal uniform, or the existing PE jacket with activewear uniform until additional stock arrives in June.

Long Sleeve Polo – Activewear Uniform

The new long sleeve polo is now available at Mensland MES Streetwear in sizes 4C – 12C. This polo is part of the activewear uniform. Students can choose to wear either the short or long sleeved polo.

Sun Smart School

As communicated in previous Operoos to become a fully Sun Smart school it is now a requirement for all students to wear their school hat throughout the entire school year. We appreciate that a small number of students need a new hat. Mensland and MES Streetwear stocks will be replenished in the next week. If you currently have a hat on order please communicate with your Home Group or Class Teacher.

We appreciate your cooperation in meeting College expectations.

College Leadership Team

College Board Nominations

We look forward to welcoming our College Board Nominees at the Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 20 May, 7.00pm. All members of the school community are welcome to attend the AGM which will be held in the Bosco Library.

Andrew Taylor

I am a registered nurse of 23 years experience, with over 13 years experience as the Nurse Unit Manager of the Port Pirie Regional Health Service Emergency Department and Outpatients Suite. 

I have experience as Director of Nursing at the Port Pirie Regional Health Service as well as Executive Officer/Director of Nursing and Midwifery at the Crystal Brook and Port Broughton Hospitals.

My passion as a nurse leader lies in creating environments that enable staff to professionally grow, develop and work to their full potential in order to provide exceptional regional nursing care. Adding to this I have recently completed an SA Health Senior TIER leadership programme

I have 3 boys who attend St Mark’s College and I submit this nomination as I feel my skillset will enable me to contribute positively to the College community as well as providing an opportunity for additional learning for myself. 

Evan Garnaut

I am born and bred in Port Pirie and have lived here all of my life. I have a beautiful little girl named Clementine currently completing Year 1 at St Marks. I work for Uniting Country SA as the Infrastructure Manager responsible for all asset management across out service footprint, and have a background in project management within the construction industry. I have also been responsible for running projects relating to youth mental heath and wellbeing, as well as driving the inception of the local Youth Reference Group sitting under Port Pirie Regional Council.

Hopefully the above is a skill set that would fit within the St Mark's Board, and I'm looking forward to advancing the vision of St Marks given the opportunity.

Sabeeta Thomas Jacob

I am mother to 3 gorgeous kids. I have been connected to school since 2018 when my first born started the Little Lions program. He is in Year 6 now. My daughter is in Year 1. My youngest one will be starting Little Lions next year.  

I’m pretty much familiar with the amazing school environment. 

I had been a volunteer in the school a few years ago. Later I completed my work placements for Certificate III in Education Support thrice with wonderful school teachers. 

I really wish to be a significant part of this school and stay connected to it and want to put my part in all possible ways. 

Emily Lowe

I am currently employed as an Occupational Therapist with SA Health and have worked for 15 years in the region. After completing my university studies, I returned to my hometown and commenced work in community health, supporting individuals across the lifespan. I soon discovered a strong interest in working with children and families, particularly in the area of emotional and mental wellbeing.

My working career has been spent predominantly as a paediatric Occupational Therapist within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), South Australia’s statewide tertiary mental health service for children and young people. Over many years, I have worked clinically to support children aged 0–16 and their families, with a focus on improving participation in daily life and learning. Much of my work centres on addressing sensory regulation and emotional dysregulation—key factors influencing a child’s capacity to engage at school and in the broader community.

In addition to my professional work, my husband and I co-own and operate Bentleys Building Supplies. I am a proud former student of St Mark’s College, having attended from Reception to Year 12, and now have a daughter currently in Year 2.

I am passionate about the health, wellbeing, and development of children and young people in country areas. I would welcome the opportunity to contribute to the future direction of St Mark’s College and believe my experience in mental health, education, and allied health leadership would allow me to offer a balanced and informed perspective to the College Board. 

Tips on Healthy Sleep Habits for Teens

• Maintain a regular sleep schedule – Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps to regulate your body clock and can improve your sleep quality.
• Cut back screen time the before bed – Cut back on phone and laptop use an hour before bed to help increase melatonin levels. The use of blue light at night tricks your brain into thinking its earlier in the day and can upset your sleep/wake cycle.
• Create a relaxing bed routine – Reading, listening to calming music or journaling helps you to relax before bed and signal for your brain to wind down.
• Limit stimulants and sugar late in the day – Sugar provides false energy that causes your blood sugar to rise and fall and can disrupt your sleep/wake cycle. Caffeine can stay in your system for hours and inhabit the ability to fall asleep. This includes energy drinks.
• Understand and manage stress – Overthinking can keep you awake even when you are tired. Use relaxation techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, or deep breathing to help clear and relax your mind for sleep.
• Get sunlight during the day – Sunlight exposure helps to set your sleep/wake cycle. Aim for 15-30 minutes a day, preferably in the morning to help kick start your day.
• Make your sleeping environment comfortable – For a better sleeping environment make the room dark, cool, and quiet. Use white noise apps or block out curtains if needed.
• Get physical – Exercise regularly to help encourage a deeper and more sound sleep.

Find out more about relaxation techniques.

Tips on Healthy Sleep Habits for Children

Establishing a bedtime routine can significantly ease the transition to sleep, even during challenging times. I recommend beginning the wind-down process approximately one hour before bedtime. This can include lowering the volume in the house, playing a calming movie or relaxing music, and engaging in reading before sleep. For additional guidance on fostering healthy sleep habits for children, visit Health Direct.

Kindness

Being kind to yourself and others is crucial for creating a supportive and positive environment. Kindness involves treating yourself or others with compassion and understanding. Simple acts of kindness can make a significant impact, fostering a more connected community. 

At the Benedict Campus, we have created a kindness tree to capture words of kindness in our school community. 

Dolly's Dream emphasizes the importance of kindness in combating bullying and promoting mental well-being. By encouraging kindness, we can honour Dolly's legacy and contribute to a safer, more compassionate world for everyone. For more information visit: Dolly's Dream.

Miss Naomi Wilkins and Mrs Sonya Murphy, School Counsellors