National Child Protection Week

7–13 September: “Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to ACTION”

This week, Holy Spirit College joins communities across Australia in recognising National Child Protection Week, a time to reflect on how we can all play a part in keeping children safe.

The theme for 2025, “Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to ACTION”, reminds us that while talking about child safety is important, it’s the actions we take that truly make a difference.

At Holy Spirit College, we support the message from NAPCAN that real change happens when we move beyond words. Conversations can raise awareness and challenge harmful behaviours, but it’s through concrete steps—like building strong support networks, promoting respectful relationships, and creating safe environments—that we actively protect our children from harm.

This week, we encourage families to reflect on how everyday actions—at home, in the community, and online—can contribute to a culture of safety and care. Whether it’s checking in with your child, modelling respectful behaviour, or staying informed about child wellbeing, every action counts.

Together, let’s ensure that every child not only feels heard, but also experiences genuine safety, love, and protection.

Tips for Parents: Turning Conversation into Action

Here are some simple but powerful ways you can help protect and support your child:

• Create a safe space for open dialogue - Encourage your child to talk about their feelings, friendships, and experiences. Listen without judgment and reassure them that they can always come to you.
• Model respectful relationships - Children learn by example. Show kindness, empathy, and respect in your interactions with others—especially during conflict.
• Stay informed - Learn about online safety, mental health, and child development. Being aware helps you respond to challenges with confidence and care.
• Know your child’s circle - Be familiar with the adults and peers your child interacts with regularly. Build relationships with teachers, coaches, and other caregivers.
• Establish boundaries and routines - Clear expectations around behaviour, screen time, and responsibilities help children feel secure and supported.
• Empower your child - Teach them about body safety, consent, and how to seek help if something doesn’t feel right.
• Connect with community resources - Reach out to school staff, local services, or parenting groups for support. You’re not alone in raising safe and resilient children.

Student Protection Contacts at Holy Spirit College

Students have a right to expect that the College staff will do all that is possible to protect them from any kind of harm and create a safe learning environment. Catholic Education is committed to best practices in Student Protection and the development of proactive approaches that equip staff with the skills and knowledge to identify risks of harm and respond appropriately.

Student Protection Contacts are available to listen to students’ concerns about their safety—whether at school, at home, or in the community. These contacts have received student protection training and are approved by the Principal as approachable, confidential, and trustworthy members of staff.

Students who are concerned or worried about something happening to them or someone they know are encouraged to speak with one of the Student Protection Contacts at the College. They may also speak with their Year Level Dean, Pastoral Care Teacher, a trusted teacher, or another trusted adult at the College.

The Student Protection Process and Guidelines for all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Rockhampton are available on the Catholic Education website and on our College website.

The Student Protection Process and Student Protection Guidelines for all Catholic Schools (Diocese of Rockhampton) are available on the Catholic Education website and our College website.

Student Protection Contacts

Curriculum News

Year 12 Students: Getting Ready for External Exams!

Our Year 12 students are stepping up to the challenge and sitting their practice exams in preparation for Term 4 and the upcoming External Exams. These practice sessions aren’t just a test run—they’re a great opportunity to develop a study plan, experience real exam conditions, and receive valuable feedback from teachers to help maximise your success.

Top Tips for Exam Preparation:

• Create a study timetable with breaks that align with the external exam schedule
• Prioritise study over part-time jobs and social outings
• Remember, every subject counts—even if your current IA results don’t show which ones will contribute to your ATAR
• Reach out to teachers for guidance and feedback—they’re here to help!
• Start your revision during the September holidays
• If you’re feeling anxious, don’t hesitate to use support systems at school and at home

Tools for Tackling Exam Anxiety:

• Use classroom time wisely and prepare thoroughly during Term 4
• Talk about your feelings—building emotional vocabulary can help manage stress
• Try simple relaxation techniques: deep breathing, positive self-talk, and gentle stretches during tests
• During exams, read every question carefully, skip ones you’re unsure about to save time, answer all multiple-choice questions, and review your answers if time allows
• Focus on your strengths—remember your successes in this subject!
• Keep practising in a low-pressure setting—these practice exams are your chance to do just that

Good luck to all our Year 12s as you approach the final weeks of preparation! Remember, you can book a conference with Mrs Eiser for QCE eligibility, QTAC applications, and scholarship advice, or with Mrs O’Brien for career guidance, including employment, apprenticeships, and traineeships.

We’re here to help you succeed—let’s finish strong!

Year 11 Exam Block

Email advice has been sent to parents regarding the requirements for the Year 11 Exam Block. Year 11 students have received their Exam Block timetable.

• College formal uniform must be worn (unless attending from a structured work placement, in which case work wear is permitted)
• Students are responsible for their timetable
• Only clear water bottles and pencil cases may be brought into the exam room
• Students who are unwell or do not attend MUST apply for an AARA using the appropriate forms. Part time work, holidays, sleeping in and not reading the timetable are not applicable AARA conditions.

We wish our Year 11 students all the best and remind them to use teacher guidance when preparing for exams. The Exam Block replicates the conditions they will experience during their External Exam Block in Year 12. Most General subjects will begin Year 12 learning and assessment in Term 4.

Unlock Your Potential with Feedback and a Growth Mindset!

As students complete their assessments, teachers are busily marking and providing digital feedback, which is available for students and parents to view via Student Café, Parent Lounge, and the Parent Orbit App (Curricular Activities).

Did you know that feedback from teachers is a powerful tool to help students grow and succeed? Embracing feedback with a growth mindset—believing that abilities can improve with effort—can lead to remarkable achievements. Instead of fearing mistakes, see them as opportunities to learn. Celebrate progress—not just perfection.

When students work collaboratively with their teachers and reflect on their guidance, they can unlock their God-given potential. Remember, learning is a journey, and every step forward brings our students closer to their goals. Let’s grow together!

Regards,

Anne Miles - Assistant Principal (Curriculum)