ST RITA'S COLLEGE ORIENTATION HANDBOOK YEAR 7, 2021 - St Rita's College
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ST RITA’S COLLEGE
ORIENTATION HANDBOOK
YEAR 7, 2021
St Rita’s College
Mission
St Rita’s College follows the mission of Jesus as lived by the
founder of the Presentation Sisters, Venerable Nano Nagle. Our
community seeks to inspire engaging, inquisitive and passionate
learning, leading to action for a just world.
Vision
As a dynamic Catholic faith community, our vision is to:
Embody and promote leadership as service, growing from critical
reflection and leading to action for justice.
CONTENTS
From the Principal 2 Academic Information 22
Curriculum 22
General Information 3 Homework 22
Important Dates/Class Times 3 Laptop Program 23
Staff Contacts 4 Nano Nagle Library 24
Administration 6 Reporting 25
Fees 6 Diverse Learning 25
Operoo 6 Text Books and Stationery 25
Supervision 6
Transport and Traffic Management 7 Outdoor Education 26
Lockers 8
The Pantry 8 Cocurricular Activities 28
Lost Property 8 Music 28
Uniforms/College Boutique 10 Debating 32
Our Patrons 12 Speech and Communication 32
Houses 14 Academic Extension 32
Sport 34
Communication 16
MySRC 16 Community Involvement 40
College App 16
Newsletter 16 College Map 42
Contacting Teachers and Your Daughter 17
Expectations and Procedures 18
Absent and Late Students 18
Students who are Unwell/Medication 19
Mobile Phone Policy 20
COLLEGE CONTACT
Telephone (07) 3862 1615
Email administration@stritas.qld.edu.au
Website www.stritas.qld.edu.au
1
Welcome FROM THE PRINCIPAL Dear Parents/Carers Welcome to St Rita’s College. We look forward to greeting your daughter as an important member of our Presentation community in 2021. The movement from primary school to secondary school is a significant one for both the girls and their parents. We aim to make this transition as smooth as possible with initiatives such as the Big Sister/Little Sister program playing an important role in ensuring our newest students are welcomed and nurtured by the older girls. This long held tradition at St Rita’s has been successful in settling in our new students. As a community, we value the input of parents and ask that you too get involved in your daughter’s education and her College. We have a number of opportunities for parents to be involved, such as the Parents and Friends Association and cocurricular subcommittees. I look forward to nurturing, in partnership with you, articulate women of integrity who are independent, creative and resilient. Yours sincerely Mrs Dale Morrow Principal, St Rita’s College 2
IMPORTANT DATES
Welcome to Parents
A welcome barbecue for Year 7 parents and families will be held on Sunday 7 February at Hogan Place (under the Fig
Tree) from 4:00pm - 6:00pm. This is an opportunity for you to meet other parents and your daughter’s new friends.
Important Dates for Year 7, 2021
Saturday 17 October 2020 • Academic Testing 8:30am - 12:30pm (Compulsory)
• Primary School uniform to be worn
• Please bring 2B pencils (no pacers), eraser, sharpener and morning
tea
Tuesday 27 October 2020 Boutique appointments commence
Monday 2 November 2020 Stationery and subject workbook orders due
Monday 30 November/ Year 7 Beginner Instrumental Group (BIGs) instrument and fitting session
Tuesday 1 December 2020
Friday 22 January/Monday 25 January 2021 IT Connection Days
Wednesday 27 January 2021 • Years 7 and 12 students commence school 8:30am
• Year 7 students meet Big Sister at tennis court gate and move to Sr
Assumpta Pavillion
• Textbook collection will take place during the day
• New Music student and parent information session, 3:30pm
Thursday 28 January 2021 Years 8 - 11 students commence school
Wednesday 3 February 2021 Commencement Mass 9:30am
Friday 5 February 2021 Interhouse Swimming Carnival
Centenary Pool, Spring Hill
Wednesday 10 February 2021 House Warming Event
Wednesday 24 - Friday 26 February 2021 Year 7 Camp
2021 Term Dates Daily Routine
Term 1
Wednesday 27 January - Thursday 1 April Normal Days Assembly Days
Term 2 HG/Assembly 8:38 - 8:55 8:38 - 9:31
Monday 19 April - Friday 18 June Period 1 8:58 - 9:58 9:34 - 10:26
Period 2 10:01 - 11:01 10:29 - 11:21
Term 3 Lunch 11:01 - 11:41 11:21 - 12:01
Monday 12 July - Friday 17 September Period 3 11:41 - 12:41 12:01 - 12:53
Period 4 12:44 - 1:44 12:56 - 1:48
Term 4 Afternoon Tea 1:44 - 2:04 1:48 - 2:08
Tuesday 5 October - Friday 26 November Period 5 2:04 - 3:04 2:08 - 3:00
3
STAFF CONTACTS
College Leadership Team
Principal Deputy Principal - Studies Deputy Principal - Students
Mrs Dale Morrow Mrs Maree Trims Ms Catherine Allen
principal@stritas.qld.edu.au studies@stritas.qld.edu.au students@stritas.qld.edu.au
Assistant Principal - Mission Assistant Principal Business Manager
Mrs Erica Qureshi - Learning and Teaching Mr Edward Gleeson
qur@stritas.qld.edu.au Dr Natasha Mayne egleeson@stritas.qld.edu.au
may@stritas.qld.edu.au
Heads of House
Cascian Collins Hogan Kildare
Mr Benjamin Babao Mrs Naomi Humphrys Miss Caitlin Bradbury Mrs Simmone Irvine
bab@stritas.qld.edu.au hmp@stritas.qld.edu.au brd@stritas.qld.edu.au irv@stritas.qld.edu.au
Marian Nagle Rosa Xaverian
Mrs Chani-Alia Murtagh Mrs Kate White Mrs Michelle Siddiqui Miss Sarah Crellin
mrt@stritas.qld.edu.au whi@stritas.qld.edu.au sid@stritas.qld.edu.au cre@stritas.qld.edu.au
Guidance Counsellors Student Wellbeing Officer
Ms Gail Murton Mrs Rebecca Rylands Mrs Lisa Lenton
mur@stritas.qld.edu.au rrylands@stritas.qld.edu.au llenton@stritas.qld.edu.au
4
Heads of Faculty
English Health & PE Languages Mathematics Religion
Mr Martin Lobb Mrs Trish Brennan Mrs Carmen Anders Mr Mark Ellingham Ms Paula Manthey
Science Social Science Technology The Arts
Ms Isabel Trifaro Mr Tom Harvey Ms Sharlene Walton Mrs Bliss Coster
Contact: administration@stritas.qld.edu.au
Heads of Program
Cocurricular Music Diverse Learning Head of Library Head of Study Skills
Mr Craig Kennedy Ms Kerrie Burton Ms Noni Harrison Ms Amanda Wallas
Contact: administration@stritas.qld.edu.au
Other
Manager Community Development Head of Information Cocurricular Sport Student Services
Mrs Anna Roberts Technology TBC Mrs Kate Timcke
aroberts@stritas.qld.edu.au Mr Ben Greenup sport@stritas.qld.edu.au reception@stritas.qld.edu.au
support@stritas.qld.edu.au
5
GENERAL INFORMATION Administration College Reception is located at the front of the Nano Nagle Centre. Reception is open from 8:00am until 4:00pm each day during Term time. During hoiday periods, Student Services is open for reduced hours. The College is closed for four weeks over the Christmas/New Year period. Student Services is located in the Sacred Heart building, as is Sick Bay. Fees Fees are issued at the commencement of the year in the first week of each Semester. You may elect to pay your fees in full, up front, or via Direct Debit over the months of February to November. Those looking to finance fees over an extended period of time might like to use Edstart. If for any reason you believe you may have difficulty in meeting your account, please contact the Business Manager, Mr Ed Gleeson, as soon as possible on (07) 3862 1615. Operoo (online consent form system) St Rita’s College takes the health and safety of our students very seriously. As such we use the health, safety and electronic consent form system, Operoo. Operoo provides a parent controlled electronic medical form to assist our duty of care. Parents update medical information online, providing the College with instant access to the most accurate emergency information. Operoo is also an electronic version of the paper based forms previously filled in for excursions, camps, etc. Operoo is accessed via MySRC and the College App and is used to enter your daughter’s details including: • emergency contacts (in the event that parents are unavailable) • medical contacts • medical checklist including asthma, allergies, seizures, diabetes • health and ambulance insurance details • notes and other care instructions from you Parents/Carers will receive an emailed notification to join Operoo and enter details for your daughter/s. The information you enter for your daughter will only be visible to relevant staff and is managed in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Please contact the College if you have any questions or visit the Operoo website for more information: www.operoo.com Hours of Supervision Supervision is provided on campus from 8:10am each morning. No entry to buildings is permitted prior to the first bell at 8:20am. Supervision is extended to St Rita’s College students only. Siblings from other schools are not permitted on Campus. 6
Transport Options
The Brisbane City Council bus route 300 services Alexandra Road, an approximate 100 metre safe walking distance
from the College. Multiple Brisbane City Council bus routes from both the city and northern suburb directions service
Sandgate Road. Sandgate Road is a safe 250 metre walk through suburban streets to St Rita’s.
Red and White Coaches (Coach Australia Pty Ltd) transport students from St Rita’s, St Margaret’s, Clayfield College and
Mary MacKillop College, and operate school runs to and from the northern suburbs of Brisbane. Please refer to their
website for school bus routes. Visit www.coachaustralia.com.au or phone (07) 3269 6466.
Hornibrook Buslines run the 999A/315 and 999B/315 services from Kippa Ring to St Rita’s and other surrounding schools
and a service to connect with the train from Sandgate. Contact (07) 3284 1622 or visit www.hornibrook.com.au
Hendra, Clayfield and Eagle Junction rail stations are all in walking proximity of the College.
Traffic Management
A Crossing on Enderley Road is operational between the hours of 7:45am to 8:45am and from 2:45pm to 3:45pm, when
the Crossing Supervisor is present and flags are in place. During these hours, all students and any parents coming on to
campus are to only use the Crossing.
Enderley Road has signage installed by Brisbane City Council providing a two minute set-down zone to separate short
term parking from all-day parking.
• Parents are requested not to stop or park in areas which are marked with yellow lines. No parking is permitted in
driveways or across the College entrance.
• Students are not to be driven into the College grounds. Pedestrian traffic only is permitted (except for delivery or
staff vehicles).
• No students are to enter or exit the College via the Stafford Street entry.
On certain afternoons each week, an area along the southern kerbline of Enderley Road will be reserved for sports buses
between the hours of 5:00pm and 7:00pm.
LIVERPOOL RD
SUPERVISED CROSSING no parking or drop off
ENDERLEY RD
no no no
parking parking parking
2 MINUTE DROP OFF ZONE Fire
2 MIN
Hydrant
SRC
Post Box
SRC DRIVEWAY
SRC DRIVEWAY
7
GENERAL INFORMATION Lockers Each student is provided with a locker which is to be used to secure personal property at all times. College insurance does not cover student personal items. All students are to provide a lock for their locker. Replacement locks are available for purchase at the Boutique. The Pantry The Pantry operates five days per week offering breakfast from 7:30am each morning, lunch and afternoon tea. After school options are also available. Our qualified chefs offer a weekly changing hot lunch menu along with a selection of healthy fresh wraps, salads, sushi and cold drinks, served for lunch and afternoon tea. The Pantry is also open after school until 4:00pm for students to purchase something to eat and drink prior to cocurricular events or studying in the Library. A fortnightly menu is published in Verbis. Lost Property Lost propety is located at Student Services. Parents/Carers are asked to clearly label all student property with their daughter’s name and House Group. 8
9
UNIFORM EXPECTATIONS
Each student is expected to maintain high standards of personal appearance and it is the responsibility of parents/
carers to ensure that the uniform is being worn each day in accordance with College regulations.
• The Formal Dress is to be mid knee in length and clean. Hems should be neat and secure and not hanging at
any point.
• Socks and Shoes should be clean, with shoes well-polished and laces secure.
• Hats should be clean, in good shape, with bands not fraying severely.
• The College Blazer is compulsory in Terms 2 and 3 for Years 10-12 students.
• The Sports uniform is not to be worn to/from school.
• Track Suit tops are not to be worn with the Formal Dress uniform.
• All items of clothing must be clearly labelled.
• Only the College backpack, College bag or College Sports bag may be carried to and from school.
The full College Uniform Policy may be found on the College website and in the Student Planner (received by Year 7
students on their first day).
10COLLEGE BOUTIQUE AND UNIFORMS
St Rita’s operates an on-site and 24/7 online Boutique for the purchase of your daughter’s uniform requirements. The
on-site Boutique’s current opening hours are 7:30am-8:30am and 11:00am-3:30pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
during Term time. The online store can be accessed from the homepage of our Website, from MySRC and on the College
App.
New Students
To cater for our new students, the Boutique will be open for pre-booked fitout appointments between Tuesday 27
October 2020 and Saturday 28 November 2020. Most appointments will take place on Saturdays. There are limited
appointments available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons during these dates. The Boutique will close
from Friday 4 December 2020 and reopen for weekday trading from Monday 18 January 2021.
Full Fitout Appointments
Appointments for a 45-minute fitout must be booked online at this link: events.humanitix.com/tours/2021-year-7-
uniform-bookings
When you make an appointment, you will receive a confirmation which you should print out and present at your
appointment, or have available for viewing on your mobile phone. If you arrive without a fitout appointment, we may
not be able to accommodate you. For social distancing reasons, only the student being fitted and one parent/caregiver
are able to attend the fitout. If you have more than one daughter commencing at the College, please book separate
appointments.
Payments
The Boutique accepts payment by cash, Mastercard, Visa or EFTPOS in store. The Online Boutique accepts credit card
payment.
Uniform Items
SUMMER - TERMS 1 AND 4 SPORTS UNIFORM WATER POLO UNIFORM
• Formal Dress • Sports Skirt/Shorts • Water Polo Swim Suit
• Formal Hat • Striped Polo/House Polo • Water Polo Reversible Cap
• Brown Tie • White ankle turn down Socks • St Rita’s Swimming Towel (optional)
• College Badge and House Badge • Joggers • Plus Full Representative Uniform
• White ankle turn down Socks • Bike Pants (lycra)
• Brown lace up Shoes • House Bucket Hat
• College Bag and Satchel • Sports Bag or Havasack
• Bike Pants (lycra or cotton) • Track Suit (optional)
WINTER – TERMS 2 AND 3 SWIMMING MUSIC PERFORMANCE UNIFORM
As per Summer uniform with: • SRC Swimming Togs • Music Blouse
• Jumper • House Swimming Cap • Music Culottes
• Vest (optional) • Sports Bag or Havasack • Black opaque knee-hi Stockings
• Tights (optional) • Track Suit (optional) • Black Ballet Flats
• Scarf (optional) • St Rita’s Swimming Towel (optional) • St Rita’s College Ribbon
• College Blazer*
* compulsory Years 10-12 SPORTS RESPRESENTATIVE
* optional Years 7, 8, 9 UNIFORM
• Skirt or Shorts
• Bike Pants (lycra only)
• Representative Singlet or T-shirt
• Cap (for non-contact sport)
• Visor (for contact sport)
• Track Suit (optional)
11ABOUT OUR PATRONS St Rita’s College is a Catholic secondary school for girls established by the Presentation Sisters in 1926. Our pillars are derived from the example of Nano Nagle, founder of the Presentation Order and the life of our Patron, St Rita of Cascia. 12
In the footsteps of Nano Nagle
Nano Nagle was born in 1718 in Ballygriffin, County Cork, to a wealthy Catholic family.
The brutal Penal Laws were still in place. Due to the ban on Catholic education, she
was sent to Paris to continue her education. Although as a young wealthy woman she
enjoyed the social whirl of the French capital, it is there that she apparently became
disturbed at the vast differences between her own comfortable existence and the stark
misery of the masses.
Compassion Nano returned to Ireland where she opened schools in Cork which she financed by
herself. She was also known for visiting the sick, elderly and neglected of Cork.
Hospitality With her health starting to suffer, Nano introduced the Ursuline nuns into Cork in 1771
Simplicity to help ensure the continuance of her work. As this did not really serve her purposes,
she founded a new order, the Presentation Sisters, “which excluded every exercise of
charity which was not in favour of the poor”. A convent and school – again built at her
own expense – were opened in Cork in 1777 and she died there, seven years later, in
1784.
Author Mary Anne Bianconi said there were, “few nobler figures in Irish biography than
the gentle, humble lady who was the pioneer of Irish education… the grain of seed she
planted is a noble tree this day”. Following in the footsteps of Nano Nagle, let us value
our education and use it to promote the good of all people, especially the poor.
St Rita of Cascia
On 22 May each year, we celebrate the feast of our Patron Saint, Rita of Cascia. Rita
was a teen bride, mother of two sons and widowed by the age of twenty-four. Disaster
struck her yet again as she witnessed the death of both her children.
Such tragedies would have crushed and embittered most people – but not Rita. She
speaks to us today as woman, wife, mother and widow. Although completely alone,
filled with sorrow and facing black despair, she allowed God to fashion a new life for her.
Living as she did in the mid-fourteenth century, Rita felt called to comfort others in their
Courage loneliness and sorrow by giving herself to God. This she did by joining the Augustinian
Sisters. Once Rita was accepted into the convent, she spent her days trying to alleviate
the pain, anxieties and sorrow of those in need. According to tradition, in her later
Justice years, she received the stigmata. However, the most beautiful tradition of all is the
‘Legend of the Rose’.
Hope As Rita lay dying, she asked her relative to bring her a rose from the garden of her little
house in the mountains. It was the depths of winter and bitterly cold. The little streams
were frozen; the trees were barren – no leaves, no flowers; the roads were icy and
dangerous. It grew dark very quickly. It took great stamina to walk from one village to
another along these steep, mountainous paths. In this inhospitable environment, Rita’s
relative found this little rose bush covered with sweet-smelling blooms.
This tradition has become a powerful image of Rita’s life – a life spent bringing the
peace and beauty of Christian love into the wintry society of strife-torn Cascia, a peace
won by her great suffering, faith and courage. Rita was a woman of strength and faith.
She is our role model today.
13HOUSES
Cascian
Patron St Rita of Cascia
Crest The winter rose is a symbol of St Rita and the miracle attributed to her. This symbol reminds
us that joy, hope and life are possible beyond suffering.
Colour Gold
Motto Veni, Vidi, Vici – I Came, I Saw, I Conquered
Collins
Patron Sister Mary Ann Collins - second Superior of the Presentation Order
Crest The open book of learning symbolises the preeminent ministry of the Presentation Order:
education of the poor. Education was the key to Catholic liberation in Ireland both socially and
politically. After Nano Nagle’s death, it was Mary Ann Collins who guided the Sisters to keep
Nano’s vision alive.
Colour Purple
Motto In Scientia Autem Opportunum - In knowledge there is opportunity
Hogan
Patron Mother Gabriel Hogan
Crest The old school house symbolises the life work of Mother Gabriel Hogan. One of the first
students enrolled at St Rita’s College, Mother Gabriel Hogan joined the Presentation Order
and served as Mistress of Novices for 11 years, Queensland Superior General for 18 years and
President of the Australian Presentation Society for 12 years. The grounds at the front of the
College, Hogan Place - affectionately known as The Flat - are also named after Mother Gabriel.
Colour Pink
Motto Modo in Actione Leni Firmaverunt - Resolute in action: gentle in manner
Kildare
Patron Nano Nagle
Crest Kildare means ‘Church of the Oak’. The mighty Oak tree symbolises life and strength from
humble beginnings. The spread of the Presentation Order is often described as a story from
acorn to oak. The Presentation Sisters in Queensland trace their origins to the Mother House
in Kildare, Ireland. In March 1874, prior to their departure for Australia, five Sisters each
planted an Oak tree in the grounds of the convent in Kildare. Two of these oaks remain today.
Colour Teal
Motto Vires Et Augmentum - Strength and GrowthMarian
Patron Mary, the Mother of God
Crest The crest bears the image of Mary. She was a woman of humble beginnings who experienced
poverty and oppression during her life in 1st Century Palestine. She is a model of faithfulness
and openness to the call of God in our lives.
Colour Blue
Motto Nulli Secundus - Second to None
Nagle
Patron Nano Nagle
Crest The lantern is a symbol associated with the ministry of Nano Nagle amongst the sick and poor
of Cork. It symbolises the responsibility of all Presentation people to bring life and hope to
others, especially to those in need. The light of God’s love shines even in the darkest place.
Colour Green
Motto Excelsior - Ever Upward
Rosa
Patron St Rita of Cascia
Crest The bee, the rose and the two figs are three significant symbols of St Rita’s life. They relate to
the three miracles prominent in her life and symbolise a life graced by God. As the Saint of
Impossible Causes, St Rita reminds us that nothing is impossible for God.
Colour Orange
Motto Nos Amore Studeant - With Love We Shall Strive
Xaverian
Patron St Francis Xavier
Crest The ship bearing the cross and Bible on the sails symbolises the ministry of St Francis Xavier.
A co-founder of the Society of Jesus, he travelled to parts of Asia, spreading the Good News
of Jesus Christ. One of the first Presentation Sisters to arrive in Australia in 1866, Mother M.
Francis Xavier Murphy, also took his name.
Colour Red
Motto Primus Inter Pares - First Amongst Equals
15COMMUNICATION
MySRC
The College uses the daily online communication system MySRC to keep parents and students informed. Each parent/
carer has a unique login and your personal login credentials are advised via email. If you do not receive a login or
you have forgotten the password, MySRC has a function on the sign in page reading Parents - click here for forgotten
passwords. Enter your email address to receive a link to reset your password. If you are still unable to sign in there is a
‘Support and Feedback’ button at the bottom of the page.
Once logged in to MySRC you will be able to view:
• Your daughter’s timetable, classes and teacher email addresses.
• Due dates for assessable work for each of your daughter’s subjects, with feedback on the assessment where
relevant.
• Continuous Reporting information.
• Her current official involvement in cocurriculuar activities.
• Your own contact details for checking (and updating if required).
• Your daughter’s House information.
• College News and the College Calendar.
• Links to useful information.
• Parent support groups you can join (click Join a Group or Activity from the side menu).
College App
A MySRC mobile app is available on Google Play for Android and Apple App Store for iOS. Once downloaded, you will
receive notifications you tailor for your daughter’s Year level and Cocurricular groups. Please ensure Push Notifications in
Settings is turned ON. Other features of the app include:
• All information on MySRC.
• Reporting absenteeism.
• Easy access to the College newsletter, Verbis.
• The College Calendar.
• Booking events.
Newsletter
Verbis is the College newsletter, published online each fortnight and released through MySRC and the College App.
Parents/carers are asked to read the newsletter every fortnight as it is a source of important information for the wider
school community.
16Contacting Teachers and your Daughter
The most effective communication channels for parents/carers are as follows. Staff will always endeavour to get back to
parents within 24 hours if the correspondence is urgent and 48 hours for non-urgent correspondence.
Pastoral Issues Please contact your daughter’s Head of House. This includes assignment extensions for all Year
levels and extended absences.
Classroom Issues The first person to contact is always your daughter’s classroom teacher. If you require further
assistance, please contact the relevant Head of Faculty.
With your daughter All parent/carer contact during the school day with your daughter/s must be made via
Student Services on (07) 3860 7171. Students are not permitted to carry or access their mobile
phone during school hours.
Your Contact Details
It is important that parents/carers keep the College up to date with changes to home and/or work email addresses and
telephone numbers. If a parent/carer needs to be contacted urgently due to illness or accident, telephone is used. Please
also ensure that emergency contacts are available and up to date.
Please use the ‘My Details’ button on the top menu of MySRC to make changes, or email changes to
administration@stritas.qld.edu.au
17EXPECTATIONS AND PROCEDURES Absent and Late Students The College must be informed of all student absences, including late arrivals and early departures. Permission for late arrival or early departure is only granted for medical or other necessary appointments that cannot be facilitated before or after school hours. When a student is absent Parents/Carers are expected to notify the school of their daughter’s absence, late arrival or early departure before 8:30am via the Online Absentee Form, accessible from the College Website, the College App and MySRC. Emails or text messages to staff are not accepted as absentee notification. The College will contact parents/carers via SMS regarding any unexplained absences. If, due to the absence, your daughter will be missing a Cocurricular Music lesson, ensemble rehearsal or Speech and Communication lesson, this can be indicated on the form and the relevant staff member will be notified. If your daughter has an assessment due on the day of absence, the assessment must still be submitted or delivered to the school as per the instructions on the assessment sheet. Any concerns should be emailed promptly to the class teacher. Contact is required for each day of absence. When arriving after the first bell of the day When a student arrives to school after the first bell of the day, they are required to report to Student Services to sign in at the Arrival/Departure Kiosk. Parents will be notified via email of all late arrivals. Leaving the College during the day Students are not permitted to leave the College grounds during the day for medical appointments or any commitments without a parent/carer first notifying the College via the Online Absentee Form. Parents/Carers must provide the expected departure time of their daughter and the mode of transport being used. Handwritten notes are no longer accepted. At the time of departure, the student is required to report to Student Services where permission to leave is checked and once cleared, the student will be required to sign out via the Arrival/Departure Kiosk. If a student leaves for only part of the day, the student is required to report to Student Services and sign in via the Arrival/Departure Kiosk on returning to the College. Departure from College prior to Term end Parents/Carers are asked not to request permission for their daughters to be taken out of school before the end of any Term, nor to commence a Term late for purposes such as holidays and celebrations. Permission will only be granted in very special circumstances via written application to the Principal. Extended Parental/Carer Leave When parents/carers are absent from home for an extended period of time, we require that the Head of House be notified, in advance, in writing of all contact details for parents/carers and for the adults responsible for the student until the parents/carers return. 18
Students who are Unwell
The College takes the possible spread of illness seriously and students who are unwell must remain at home. If your
daughter is unwell in the morning prior to heading to school, she must not attend school.
• The College carries a Zero Tolerance policy with any Flu-like symptoms.
• If your daughter becomes unwell with any illness whilst at school, she will be assessed by a College First-Aid officer
and parents contacted for immediate collection of their daughter if it is deemed she should not be at school.
• The Student Services Receptionist will telephone you to arrange pick up of your daughter within one hour of being
notified. Students do not have permission to independently telephone their parents and ask to be taken home if they
feel unwell.
• Sick Bay is for temporary respite only.
Administration of Medication
The College will not administer any medication, including over‐the‐counter medications, e.g. paracetamol, ibuprofen
or alternative medications identified as drugs or poisons that may cause side effects, to students without medical
authorisation from a prescribing health practitioner e.g. doctor, dentist, optometrist. Medical authorisation from a
pharmacist cannot be accepted. Listed emergency contacts for the student are able to personally attend the College and
administer over‐the‐counter medications to their child if they do not wish to obtain medical authorisation.
19MOBILE PHONES AND SOCIAL MEDIA
Key points from our Acceptable Use of Mobile Phones Policy
Rules for student use of mobile phones during the school day include:
• Mobile phones must be left locked in student lockers and turned off unless instructed by a class teacher to bring it for
that lesson only.
• Students are not permitted to use their mobile phones (e.g. Apple Pay, Google Pay) to pay for items or services at any
facility of the College, including the Pantry, the Boutique and their printing accounts from the Library. Students are
required to use a credit/debit card. The carrying of cash is not encouraged, but can be accepted for payments.
• The College accepts no responsibility for lost, stolen, or damaged mobile phones.
• The College accepts no responsibility for students who lose or have their mobile phone stolen while travelling to and
from the College.
• It is strongly advised that students use passwords/pin numbers to avoid unauthorised use of their phones (e.g., by
other students, or if stolen). Students should keep their password/pin numbers confidential.
• All parent/carer contact during the school day with your daughter/s must be made via Student Services on
(07) 3860 7171.
The College’s full policy may be accessed on MySRC under Parents > Our College and Community > Policies and
Procedures.
Social Media
St Rita’s College recognises that access to technology in school gives students, staff and parents greater opportunities to
learn, engage and communicate.
The College uses, as appropriate, social networking/media, and specifically Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, as
a way to share educational resources, to curate educational content, to enhance the classroom experience, to share and
promote College spirit, to market and promote the College as an educational venue of value and to connect with students
and parents - current, past and future.
While social networking is a valuable resource for the College, it is acknowledged there are risks to consider when using
these tools. The College further acknowledges that in the social media sphere, there are indistinct lines between what is
public or private, personal or professional. The College also acknowledges that many students, staff and parents and other
family members hold personal social networking accounts which they might use to discuss/share views about school
issues with friends and acquaintances.
• It is expected that: students, parents and staff follow the same rules for responsible behaviour and respectful conduct
online as in policy for offline.
• Misuse of social media can result in disciplinary action.
• St Rita’s makes a reasonable effort to ensure students’ safety and security online, but will not be held accountable for
any harm or damages that result from misuse of social media technologies by students, staff or parents.
The College’s social networking/media guidelines and the College Community Code of Conduct should be considered by
students, staff and parents before posting any information on social networking platforms about the College, its students,
staff and/or parents or anyone else associated with the College. The guidelines are carried in the College Student Planner.
Full policies are available on MySRC via Parents > Our College and Community > Policies and Procedures.
2021
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Curriculum Offerings - Year 7
Core Subjects Religious Education
English
Mathematics
Outdoor Education Program
Science
Social Science
Health and Physical Education
Technology Rotation Design and Technology
Digital Technologies
STEAM
Language Rotation French
German
Japanese
Arts Rotation Music
Drama
Visual Art
Homework Guidelines
St Rita’s College recognises the value of structured homework. The aim of homework is to:
• Consolidate and complement class work;
• Deepen and extend understanding;
• Develop good organisational skills; and
• Encourage responsible research and study habits.
Homework is made up of the following:
1. Nightly tasks set during class such as pre-reading, finishing exercises and other small tasks.
2. Completing assignments which are set over an extended time.
3. Test preparation and study in recognition that reading is the foundation of most academic learning.
4. Thirty minutes reading.
5. Instrumental music practice for musicians.
Homework is set regularly in most subjects. A guide to the minimum amount of homework (including assignment work)
expected per night for each Year level is:
Year 7 One hour per night
Year 8 One and a half hours per night
Year 9 One and three quarter hours per night
Year 10 Two hours per night
Year 11 Two and a half hours per night
Year 12 Three hours per night, seven days per week
An Assessment Calendar is distributed electronically to students and parents each Semester via MySRC.
22LAPTOP PROGRAM
The College operates a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) scheme, whereby students bring a student-owned device that
meets the needs of the curriculum. The College provides essential software for either a Mac or Windows device. More
information can be found at the IT Support page on MySRC.
For added convenience and support, the College has engaged Datacom to manage an online portal through which families
may purchase devices suitable for BYOD. These devices will be sold with an extended warranty, meaning that all servicing
needs under warranty can be managed by the College, with replacement devices issued, to minimise disruption. While it is
not compulsory to purchase through the Ecommerce Portal, we recommend doing so for the additional support provided.
To access the Datacom Purchasing Portal, visit the IT Support page on MySRC.
Laptop Security and Storage
It is recommended that:
• During the school day, laptops are to be either with the student or securely stored in lockers.
• Laptops be left in a case at all times, even when turned on, as cases are designed to provide adequate air flow. Nothing
else should be kept in in the case with the laptop. They should not be stored near water bottles or left in direct
sunlight.
• Care should be taken when opening and closing the screen of the device to ensure there is nothing that could damage
the device or the screen e.g., pens, headphones and cables.
For added protection it is recommended:
• A sturdy hardcover case is purchased for your daughter’s device. Some brands that we recommend are STM and UAG.
• Accidental Damage Protection (ADP) be purchased with the device.
23NANO NAGLE LIBRARY Opening Hours The Library is open for student use between the following hours: Monday - Thursday: 7:30am - 4:30pm Friday: 7:30am - 3:30pm Additional Services • Maths Tutoring (all students welcome) Monday, 3:15pm - 5:15pm • Senior Study (Years 11 and 12) Tuesday and Thursday, 4:30pm - 7:00pm Please note that use of the Library is for St Rita’s College students only. Borrowing All physical library resources must be checked out at the circulation desk. All digital resources are available through the Library website and similar lending rules apply. Students may reserve and renew resources either at the circulation desk or online via the Library catalogue. Students are able to request new resources by completing the form at the circulation desk. Library Website The Library website offers valuable learning resources for assignments and reading. Students are encouraged to visit it regularly for assistance with research and referencing. Visit the website at www.stritas-qld.libguides. com/home Connect With Us We love to connect with our community through social media and our website. Follow us to receive regular updates about what’s on and new resources available. Instagram @stritaslibrary Twitter @stritaslibrary 24
MySRC and Continuous Reporting
MySRC is the College’s Learning Management System (LMS), used by students to engage with their learning in all
faculties. The College utilises Continuous Reporting, enabling parents/carers to view their daughter’s results and teacher
feedback in MySRC as they become available throughout the Term. A printed Semester report is not published, however
an Academic Transcript will be available for download at the end of each Semester.
Diverse Learning
St Rita’s College recognises that students are individuals who learn at different rates and in different ways. Therefore, our
Diverse Learning (DL) department responds in a number of ways to diverse student needs.
• Through collaborative planning, Individual Support Plans for identified students are developed, implemented and
monitored to provide strategies for teachers and students to enhance learning experiences within the classroom.
• To further support literacy and numeracy development, a small group of Years 7 and 8 students are offered the
opportunity to undertake Extra English and Extra Mathematics classes within their timetable.
• In addition, Teacher Aides may provide support within the classroom.
• Diverse Learning staff also offer Homework Help to all students during lunch time each week.
Text Book Hire Scheme
A Text Book Hire Scheme operates at the College from the Library. Students are provided with physical or digital text
books required for their subjects. Physical texts must be returned to the Library. Text Book Hire Scheme information
can be found on MySRC under College Services. Year 7 students will collect any physical text books with their Big Sister on
Wednesday 27 January 2021. If you have any textbook enquiries please email the Library at resources@stritas.qld.edu.au.
Stationery List
Stationery and workbook requirements will be published on the MK Educational Supplies website the week of Monday 5
October 2020: www.mkeducationalsupplies.com.au
Orders for 2021 are due by Monday 2 November.
Select St Rita’s College and your daughter’s Year level, and select Girl
View Book List
Place a tick beside relevant subjects and tick beside Z: Items for ALL OTHER SUBJECTS
Show Subjects: to reveal the required equipment and workbooks
If your daughter already has the required equipment, you do not need to purchase new objects. The workbooks,
however, must be purchased. There will be nominated delivery dates. The dates will be shown at the top of the order
form and emailed to you at the time of ordering. The stationery items listed are the minimum requirements. Parents are
welcome to purchase from elsewhere. Where brand, style or model is noted, this exact item must be purchased.
2526
OUTDOOR EDUCATION
Year Level Camps
St Rita’s provides an Outdoor Education Program for Years 7 through to 10. The compulsory program extends the
learning experience beyond what the classroom offers and gives the girls opportunity to participate in team activities
that develop and enhance their resilience, collaboration and their organisational and leadership abilities.
The program is fun and diverse and complements what is learned in the classroom. Each step encourages the mind to be
curious, responsive, trusting and brave, and reinforces that lessons are not necessarily all learnt in a classroom.
Year 7, 2021 Camp
Wednesday 24 February - Friday 26 February 2021
Based at Mapleton, students in Year 7 will spend one night in comfortable residential accommodation and one night
outdoors as a camping introduction. The focus of this program will be getting to know each other and team building.
The program will involve entry level activities for skills such as the flying fox and abseiling, coupled with basic camping,
bushwalking and canoeing skills.
The camp is fully catered for and includes breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and supper, catering for
most special diets and allergies. Girls with complex special diets may be required to provide their own food, which can
be stored and prepared using the facilities of the venue fridge and microwaves in the Dining Hall.
27COCURRICULAR MUSIC
BIGs (Beginner Instrumental Groups)
Beginner Instrumental Groups (BIGs) is a program that caters for Year 7 students who have not previously had any
instruction on a woodwind, brass or orchestral string instrument and would like to commence learning one of these
instruments. Students will have the opportunity to learn an instrument through group instruction and will receive music
lessons and instrument hire during Terms 1 – 3, with the prospect of joining College ensembles in Term 4. Students and
parents interested in the program will need to book an instrument fitting session for Monday 30 November or Tuesday 1
December. The cost of the program is covered within the Cocurricular Music Levy.
Tuition
St Rita’s offers an ensemble-based program where students learning an instrument are also required to play in an
ensemble. Group and individual tuition is provided by experienced teachers who utilise a sequenced instrumental
curriculum. Students have weekly lessons during the school day and perform in two studio concerts each year.
The cost of lessons is available on the Schedule of Fees, generally available from November, and will be invoiced by the
College in January, April, July and October for each Term of lessons. An annual cocurricular music levy is applied to the
account of each student who is involved in the Cocurricular Music program (tuition, ensembles and/or BIGs).
Tuition is available for:
• Woodwind – Bassoon, Saxophone, Clarinet, Oboe, Flute
• Brass – Tuba, Euphonium/Baritone, Trombone, French Horn, Trumpet
• Strings – Double Bass, Cello, Viola, Violin
• Percussion – Tuned and Untuned
• Piano (Individual lessons only)
• Harp (Individual lessons only)
• Voice
• Guitar – Acoustic finger-picking style
• Music Theory
28Ensembles
All ensembles of St Rita’s annually participate in one of the largest music festivals in Australia, the Queensland Catholic
Schools and Colleges Music Festival. They perform at College events including the Annual Thanksgiving Celebration, Open
Day, College Assemblies, liturgies and also perform throughout the year in their own concert series. Rehearsals are held
before and after school with the rehearsal schedule posted on the Music pages of MySRC.
Our program is all inclusive. However, to support student progress, it is a requirement that students are receiving tuition
on their instrument either at school or externally. Students having lessons at the College must participate in at least
one ensemble. Students learning piano at the College will also participate in an ensemble, usually choir. All students
participating in an ensemble are required to wear the Music Performance Uniform for all performances. This uniform is
available from the College Boutique.
Contact
Mr Craig Kennedy
Head of Cocurricular Music
music@stritas.qld.edu.au 2930
Enrolment for Cocurricular Music
All enrolments for tuition and ensembles are completed online through the Music page on MySRC. To assist with
preparation for next year, it is preferable that enrolments are received before the end of Term 4 2020. The closing date
for Music enrolments is Friday 29 January 2021, the last day of Week 1, Term 1.
Incoming Year 7 students enrolling in lessons, depending on their instrument, will automatically be placed into one of
the following ensembles:
Band (woodwind, brass and Wind Ensemble
percussion) students
Strings students Prelude Strings
Guitar students Guitar Ensemble
Students wishing to enrol in Nano’s Voices (choir) are not required to have voice lessons, but are encouraged to consider
lessons. An enrolment form is still required for a student who will only be participating in choir.
An information session for new Music parents will be presented on Wednesday 27 January 2021 at 3:30pm in the
Music Centre. All parents who are new to the music program are encouraged to attend this session which will provide
important information about rehearsals, lessons and performances.
MySRC
Further detailed information regarding the St Rita’s Music program is available on MySRC under the heading of Music
and The Arts.
31DEBATING Competition for Year 7 begins mid-Term 2. Towards the middle of Term 1, students will be invited to introductory workshops, held during lunch time. Advance notice of the dates for these workshops will be given through Verbis and MySRC news. All students are welcome, with no prior experience necessary. Following this, a commitment to coached sessions and participation in the Debating program will occur from the beginning of Term 2. Coached sessions could be during school or before/ after school, depending on the availability of their team’s coach. For further information, please contact Mrs Lorraine Specogna (Debating Coordinator) at spe@stritas.qld.edu.au SPEECH AND COMMUNICATION St Rita’s offers contemporary elocution and public speaking tuition with Ms Hannah Jones, Director of Speech and Communication Tuition. The program assists students to use their voice as a tool more effectively and with confidence. Whether your daughter is wishing to refine her presentation skills or needs to build confidence speaking in front of peers, the self-assurance, diction, elocution and discussion skills gained through Speech and Communication tuition will be highly beneficial. AMEB Voice and Communication exams and ASCA exams are offered, along with eisteddfods and public speaking competitions. Individual classes of 45 minutes duration are available for Years 7-12 on Thursdays during school hours on a rotational timetable. Private and small group tuition is available. Fees apply as set by the Tutor and are billed and payable independently from the College accounts. Contact Ms Hannah Jones at hjones@stritas.qld.edu.au to secure a place. For more information, please visit www.speechcommunication.com.au ACADEMIC EXTENSION To enrich and enhance our highly capable students, St Rita’s offers a range of academic cocurricular activities to stimulate and challenge the mind. Students are invited to participate in academic activities such as Debating, Future Problem Solving, da Vinci Decathlon and The Quest Brainways. As well as subject-based competitions, students may also participate in enrichment activities such as Days of Excellence. 32
33
SPORT
Year 7 Sport and Trials
Swimming
Students will nominate events during the first day of school through their House Group.
Track and Field
The Track and Field talent identification will be held during school in the last week of Term 1, 2021 at the College. Further
information will be distributed through Verbis and MySRC.
Sport Information
MySRC
All information relating to the many sports including training timetables, weekly draws and nomination letters may be
obtained through the Sport page or News page of MySRC. The MySRC Sport page is the main area for placement of sport
notices.
College App
The College App is used for notifications of draws, cancellations and important announcements regarding sporting
events.
Catholic Secondary Schoolgirls’ Sports Association (CaSSSA)
CaSSSA is the main interschool sport competition for the College. Training for CaSSSA sports is held on Monday and
Tuesday afternoons, with fixtures held on Wednesday afternoons. Sports that may be offered during the year are:
• AFL (9 a side) • Netball
• Basketball • Swimming
• Cross Country • Tennis
• Football (Soccer) • Touch
• Hockey • Volleyball
Year 7 students are eligible to participate in CaSSSA sport in Terms 2, 3 and 4. Some sports play ‘home and away’ and
others at central venues. Information and online nominations are released 4 - 6 weeks prior to trials. The aim of the
College is, where possible, to give all girls who nominate the chance to participate in a team, subject to the availability
of coaches and suitable venues. As program information is confirmed for 2021, details will be notified to families and
posted on the Sport page of MySRC. Details for tennis, swimming and water polo are carried overleaf.
Carnivals - Major Sports
Interhouse Interschool (CaSSSA)
Sport Date Venue Sport Date Venue
Swimming Friday 5 Centenary Swimming Thursday 11 Chandler
February Aquatic Centre March
Cross Country Thursday 1 Shaw Park Cross Country Friday 28 Limestone Park,
April May Ipswich
Track and Field Friday 18 UQ Track and Field Monday 16 QSAC, Nathan
June AugustContact
Director of Sport
sport@stritas.qld.edu.au
(07) 3862 1615
Representative Teams
• City District Sports (10 - 12 years)
• North Independent (NI) District Sports (13 - 19 years)
• Metropolitan North (MN) Regional Sport
• Queensland State School Championships
Pathways are open to trial for representative school teams in a variety of sports. Girls must be of a sufficient standard
to warrant attendance at a district trial. Notification of trials is posted through MySRC. The Director of Sport will guide
suitable applicants through the nomination process. Please regularly check the College App, the MySRC Sport page or
the Metropolitan North School Sport website (www.metnorthschoolsport.eq.edu.au), for further information.
Coaching Opportunities
If any parent/carer has coaching qualifications and experience and is interested in coaching a team in any of the CaSSSA
sports, please refer to the Orientation Day Parent Volunteering Webform, emailed to you via Operoo, to express your
interest.
35SPORT
Tennis
All standards of tennis ability and experience are catered for through lessons, fixtures, training sessions and participation
in the College championships. These activities are organised within the College in association with the coaches from
Lifetime Tennis. For further information, visit the Sport page of MySRC.
Lessons
Outside of school competition sessions, lessons at the College courts may be arranged through Lifetime Tennis. Please
contact the Head Coach at Lifetime Tennis, Mr John James, on 0413 584 238.
CaSSSA Tennis Competition
Catholic Secondary Schoolgirls’ Sports Association (CaSSSA) Tennis fixtures are held on Saturday mornings through to
early afternoon commencing early in February and continuing through Term 1. Games are played at home and away
courts of participating Catholic schools. Students interested in these tennis fixtures must attend the St Rita’s tennis trials
which are scheduled for Saturday 14 November at Nudgee College. A-grade trials are usually scheduled just before other
trials. Details of dates, times and costs are available from the Sport page of MySRC.
Our aim, where possible, is to give every student who applies the chance to participate in a team. Fees include a weekly
morning or afternoon training session and a motivational afternoon prior to the finals.
Parent/Daughter Tennis Challenge
This is a social tennis event held on a Sunday morning late in Term 1.
St Rita’s College Championships
This is an Honour Board event and is open to all St Rita’s students. The singles events are also the major selection events
for Knowles Cup. Divisions are: Years 7 and 8, Years 9 and 10 and Open.
Friday, 3:30 - 6:30pm
Singles Late July/early August
Nudgee College
Saturday morning
Doubles Late July/early August (the day after the Singles Championships)
St Rita’s College
Knowles Cup
This is a round robin competition run over five consecutive weekends starting in Term 4 and culminating in semis and
finals. The competition commences on the first Saturday in Term 4. Our Knowles Cup opponent schools are: All Hallows’,
Fairholme Toowoomba, St Margaret’s, Lourdes Hill, Somerville House, Stuartholme and Glennie Toowoomba. There are
four teams: Open A, Open B, Intermediate and Junior. Teams are primarily chosen from results of the School Singles
Championships.
Contact
Mr John James, Head Coach, Lifetime Tennis
0413 584 238
36Swimming Water Polo
St Rita’s Swimming St Rita’s Water Polo Club caters to current players and girls
St Rita’s College has an outstanding 25m x 25m heated who are new to the sport. Our coaches have extensive
pool, the ‘Acqua Rosa Centre’, with professional swimming experience as players and coaches at the highest levels.
coaches running squads year round. The squads cater St Rita’s Water Polo is affiliated with Queensland Water
for all abilities, all swimmers are assessed and allocated Polo and Brisbane Water Polo. Fixtures are played every
to groups based on similar proficiency rather than age Saturday in Term 4 and Term 1 at pools around Brisbane.
which helps create a competitive and challenging training Basic swimming skills are essential. Players must be able to
environment. The St Rita’s swimming program provides swim 25m competently. Trials for the 2020/2021 season
an environment for all swimmers to reach their full were held in August.
potential. For up to date information on training times
and fee structures please visit MySRC. In Term 1 the For full informaton, please refer to the Water Polo section
College competes in lead up meets with other schools of the Sport page of MySRC.
in preparation for the CaSSSA Cup which is held at the
Brisbane Aquatic Centre at Chandler. This is the main Contact
competition for the College Swim Team and one in which Head Coach Water Polo
we have a history of excellent results. sport@stritas.qld.edu.au
Acqua Rosa Clayfield Swimming Club
St Rita’s also has a swimming club which is affiliated with Terms and Conditions
Brisbane Swimming, Swimming Queensland and Swimming • Fees are payable prior to the commencement of
Australia. Anyone is welcome to join from juniors through the playing season
to national age and open level. For more information on • Once the student’s acceptance into a team has
Acqua Rosa Clayfield you can ‘Like’ us on Facebook – www. been confirmed to parents/carers by email you
facebook.com/acquarosaclayfield will be required to make payment of the fee by 10
October 2020. Payment of the full season’s fee is
Contact the only way to secure a place.
Mr Michael Bromley
Head Coach Swimming / Acqua Rosa Centre Manager
mbromley@stritas.qld.edu.au
Terms and Conditions
• There are no refunds, makeup lessons or credits once
lessons have commenced.
• All fees must be paid in full by the close of business of
the Friday of the first week of the swimming program
for the Term.
• Payment is to be made by credit or debit card (Master
37
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