Villa View: Issue 07/20

Recently, Pope Francis delivered his Lenten address. In Pope Francis’ address he makes three key points; the other person is a gift, sin blinds us and the Word is gift. Lent is the special time for renewing our encounter with Christ, living in his word, in the sacraments and in our neighbour.

Dear Brothers and Sister
Lent is a new beginning, a path leading to the certain goal of Easter, Christ’s victory over death. This season urgently calls us to conversion. Christians are asked to return to God “with all their hearts” (Joel 2:12), to refuse to settle for mediocrity and to grow in friendship with the Lord. Jesus is the faithful friend who never abandons us. Even when we sin, he patiently awaits our return; by that patient expectation, he shows us his readiness to forgive (cf. Homily, 8 January 2016).

Lent is a favourable season for deepening our spiritual life through the means of sanctification offered us by the Church: fasting, prayer and almsgiving. At the basis of everything is the word of God, which during this season we are invited to hear and ponder more deeply.

COVID19 Update
As the spread of the Coronavirus continues, we are planning our College Management Plan for all possibilities. As indicated in the latest correspondence sent home, we need to prepare for the possibility of students being sent home and prevented from attending classes for a period of time. I encourage families to put in place their own plans to deal with this possibility.

The College has increased all measures to combat the spread of germs. There are ample supplies of soap, paper towel and hand sanitiser in the toilets and located around the College grounds. Most walls in the College have posters about washing your hands and general hygiene.

In the interest of community health, it is prudent for any student who is showing signs of a cold or flu-like symptoms to be at home rather than attending classes. With the present situation I would strongly urge parents to see medical advice in these situations.

It is inevitable that we will start to see more cases of staff and students (or family members) being tested for COVID-19. Testing is managed and initiated by health authorities.  There are a number of possible scenarios:

• Students or staff may have been in close contact with symptomatic family members who are undergoing testing.  If the student or staff member has been attending school, they will be asked to self-isolate until testing is undertaken and test results are known.  If the student or staff member has no relevant symptoms, there would normally not be further action at the College level until the test results are known.   They would self-isolate for a period in accordance with health advice.
• If the above scenario occurs BUT the student or staff member is also symptomatic, the same steps will apply to immediate self-isolation.  The nature of any action at the

College level in that case would be determined in consultation with health authorities and based on the circumstances of the case.

Please keep the College informed of any family situations that may be emerging at this time.

College Events
I will keep our community informed as to the status of community events at the College. Each event is undergoing a risk management review to determine the suitability of holding such an event where a large number of people are gathering. Fortunately, the College does not have any tours to other countries in the immediate future.

Lentern Prayer

Creator God
As I enter another week of my Lenten journey, guide me to the path that leads to you. Fill my heart with gratitude, patience, strength, and peace as I strive to become the-best-version-of-myself, honestly admitting my shortcomings and sins.

As I renew my resolve each day to become a better person, let me hear your voice in the deepest reaches of my heart. Give me rest in you.

Help me to accept others, showing them your great love instead of casting judgment.

Stay with me through the busy days this week and remind me that when I need comfort, solitude, wisdom, or guidance, I can always turn to you.

Help me develop discipline and generosity through fasting and almsgiving and come closer to you through prayer this Lent.

In your name I pray
Amen.

God bless
Mr Mark Stower, Principal

“The Art and Science of Teaching” by Robert Marzano has had a significant focus in our professional development as Junior School Staff for many years.  At last week’s Collaborative and Reflective Pod (CRP) meetings, staff were challenged to respond to the question ‘Are effective teachers born or developed?”  What do you think?  In your experience at school, which teachers do you still remember?  What are the memories that you keep with you – what impacted you the most as a young student?  Marzano provides us with numerous strategies for meaningful teaching and learning – backed by research – and even the most experienced staff still find areas for goal setting ways to improve their craft of engaging boys in best learning.

The relationship between an effective teacher and student must begin with common ground.  This starts on the first day of school, and here at Villanova there is every chance it will continue for eight years, and even beyond through the Old Boys Association.  We need to get to know the boys as people who have interests and hopes outside the College gates.  “How do you know that I care?” is part of our Relational Pedagogy.  Does your son feel that a teacher has made a connection with him in 2020 as an individual?  Checking in on sporting results from the weekend or interschool competitions, sharing talents in front of the class (spotlight moments), appreciation for service (Caritas donations during Lent), and reminders for lunchtime competitions (Art and AFL) are just a few examples.

In Gelbach’s 2015 “Birds of a Feather” Research Working Paper (Harvard Kennedy School), he and his team conclude that finding similarities and feeling “liked” by someone greatly increases the learning capacity in students.  Our social capacities as human beings bring the potential for great happiness in our lives.  The connections we make, if genuine and nurtured, can mean that even the most eye-rolling experience (insert your own nemesis here – pick a subject!) is still manageable because we are together.  We get through times of a little more anxiety (e.g. assessment), because we trust one another.  We achieve our best for that moment in time, knowing that there is no end to learning.

It’s only practical that some people naturally find common interests – humour, likes, dislikes – quickly.  These are often our friends that we make at school, work, or in a team activity that we join.  Perfectly understandable.  These relationships flourish without much effort – there’s an innate desire to seek these people out in a crowd and have the in-jokes or conversations that strengthen the sense of belonging.  For our boys in Year 5 and 6, some are only too thrilled to find they have sport, music, books, tv shows, movies, drama, cooking or building things in common with a teacher.  Our staff try to provide these opportunities over the year, so be patient if your passion is still coming to show others what you can do well.

What if you are still looking to find people with common interests?  Perfectly alright.  You have a lifetime to make connections.  Want to start now?  Ok.  Have you tried sharing who you are in class or on the playground?  Taking small risks and opening dialogue about yourself is a great start.  Do you join in games, activities or team sports?  Is there a teacher you can trust to help? – perhaps a quiet email about an idea you have, or a fun fact about yourself will start a conversation the next time you see them.  Adults might look busy, we might seem like time is precious, but it could be the fact that you reach out to us that makes all the difference too.  We all need help to build relationships and sustain them over time.

We must focus on patience, kindness and each other.  A sense of belonging is paramount to best learning and achievement in school environments.  The season of Lent is our spiritual guide for doing more and being more to each other.  Our human qualities bind us all together, but our common goal for community brings a belief in ourselves and each other, that is the most precious gift of all.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

This edition’s podcast discusses social media and its potential impact on young people. Click on the image to begin listening.

Please click here to view the TedTalk by Bailey Parnell referenced in the podcast.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

International Women’s Day and Senior School Assembly
Last Friday, the Senior School came together for the first time this year for a specially themed assembly in support of International Women’s Day, which was celebrated on Sunday 8 March.

The Hon Di Farmer, Minister for Child Safety, Youth and Women and the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence delivered a poignant address which called our young men to be the future generation of good men entrusted to always treat women with respect.

Following the Minister’s speech, members of our Student Leadership Team made pledges to always by respectful in their relationships with girls and women. These are their pledges:

I pledge to use my voice and stand up for what I know to be right- Hamish Muir

I pledge to thank all mothers, and challenge those who undervalue the demanding role of caring – Jack Dunbar

I pledge to challenge bias and inequality through challenging stereotypes – Murphy Woodger

I pledge to challenge female stereotypes within the sporting community, and ensure that equal opportunities are given to all – Louis Henderson

I pledge to celebrate the achievements of the women in my life – Declan Ries

I pledge to be alert to the disrespectful portrayal and objectification of women on social media and never to share or condone it and challenge those who do – Isaak Collie

I pledge to call for gender balance in all forms of leadership in society – Tadgh O’Neill

I pledge to work for a community that treats women with respect and equality – James Reid

I pledge to challenge the banter of everyday conversations in the playground and when hanging out with my mates that disrespect girls and women – Sean Kearns

In my Head of School address, I accepted Di Farmer’s challenge on behalf of our Senior School in living up to our College aspiration to develop ‘boys into fine young men’. I spoke of my vision of the Villanova gentleman, underpinned by the following elements:

• Being a man for all seasons
• Always being cognisant of cultural and social surroundings
• Showing manners and courtesy
• Having respect for yourself and others
• Displaying pride in appearance
• Acting with empathy and compassion

I always remain optimistic of the work that we do at Villanova College in the formation of our young men who will eventually leave our place of learning and make a positive difference in society. I would like to thank Year 10 Pastoral Area Leader Mr Sean O’Neill and members of the Student Leadership Team for contributing to the success of the assembly.

Senior School Examinations
This week, our Year 12 students completed summative IA1 examinations which will contribute towards the calculation of their ATAR. Next week, our Year 11 students will experience their first examination block of their Unit 1 studies with several exams. Students and parents have been emailed the examination block expectations and the Year 11 cohort received a briefing in Form Meeting yesterday. In best preparing for success in examinations, there is a module in the Study Skills Handbook (of which Villanova College subscribes to) which offers some pragmatic and purposeful strategies. You can access the Preparing for Exam Blocks module by the following link:

https://www.studyskillshandbook.com.au/

User Name : forvillanovaonly
Password: 129results

AIC Round 6 and Uniform Expectations
This Friday and Saturday sees the penultimate round of AIC Trimester 1 competition in AFL, cricket and volleyball against St Patrick’s College, Shorncliffe. Congratulations to all Senior School students who are participating in these sports and involving themselves in the life of the College. On Saturday at Villanova Park, the First XI Cricket Team will play for the premiership cup. The new grandstand has offered a wonderful viewing experience for watching the action on Andrew Slack Oval and it would be great to see a healthy contingent of the Villa Army out to support our cricketers in their push for back to back titles.

I would like to remind all Senior School students of my expectation that you are attired in full academic uniform when watching the Firsts matches in AFL, cricket and volleyball. I thank those who model the example ahead of my directive in Term 2 that only those students attired in full academic uniform will be permitted to sit in the grandstand to watch rugby and football fixtures.

“Enjoy the game and chase your dreams. Dreams do come true.” – Sachin Tendulkar

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Brothers in Arms
At the start of the year, the student leaders laid out a vision whereby the student body would become “brothers in arms.” In Ministry the good news is that there are record numbers of students who have signed up and who are actively participating, for example we have 56 members in YCS (Ministry for Senior students who act as “bigger brothers” to younger students).

A new “Green Team” has been formed, which is appropriate after the summer of bush fires, and with the fifth anniversary approaching of Pope Francis’s visionary document about “our common home,” Laudato Si.

The Green Team’s first initiatives has included placing basketball hoops above wire net/ cage like bins in each sub-school. Students are urged to be the “greatest of all time” by shooting bottles and cans through the hoop and into the bin. As we are in Lent – and as the Ministry students are spearheading the change that we wish to see, proceeds from the next refunding of recyclables will go to the student Ministries.

Another “brothers in arms” feature of the ministries is the close collaboration in 2020 between Junior, Middle, and Senior Schools. Junior School will be starting a “Mini Vinnies” under the enthusiastic leadership of Mr Ben Valentine and Ms Chloe Adams. Meanwhile, the Green Team brings together students from Year 7 through to Year 12.

Senior School Day of Action
There is a special “brothers in arms” call out on tomorrow for every Senior School student to bring in one of the urgently needed items by people in our local community who are homeless or at risk:

• Baked beans or chunky soup or spaghetti
• Muesli bars or packet of biscuits
• Deodorant or toothbrush/ toothpaste
• Pot noodles
• Long life milk

Each student is urged to be part of a big community action in Lent so that tomorrow we fill up all the baskets in the Pastoral rooms. We are all links in a chain (see prayer at end of article). This is a different kind of “Spirit Rally,” where we focus our support on those in the community who most need our practical help at this time.

Year 9 Lenten Projects
In RE this term Year 9 students have been asked to reflect on how we can observe Lent better. But this was not to be a merely theoretical task. The students have been challenged to find out about a local community service organisation, and do something practical to support beyond simply offering money. To this end, there have been a number of creative and community-building responses, ranging from litter-picking races, second-hand book swap, and collection of items for Soccer Stars (students of refugee background gaining access to sport), Rosies, and Emmanuel City Drop-in Centre for the homeless.

With great support from Ms Nicole Jones, Ms Chris Kemp, Mrs Pauline Feltoe and Mr Rob Korst (the Year 9 RE team), the students have become agents for change. Even if little mistakes are made, it is very good to see the boys learning by encountering those whom they seek to serve.

The Iona JAM Expo
The Villanova ministries were superbly represented on Tuesday evening by Year 12 students Tadgh O’Neill, Theo Day and Isaak Collie, supported by staff members Ms Amanda Waterson and Ms Nicole Jones. The Expo hosted by Iona College is a great opportunity for like-minded students to share ideas and visit displays put together by the different schools. There is also the opportunity to meet and network with organisations like Vinnies Youth, ACRATH (against people smuggling), and Caritas – the second biggest humanitarian aid organisation in the world.

Glimpsing ahead
Tomorrow, will see the second Clean-Up Norman Creek event for this term. Led by Mr Colin Grant, the clean-up team sweeps along both sides of Norman Creek near the College, clearing out the plastic waste. In terms of what is achieved, it is interesting to note that each piece of polystyrene picked up could save a turtle’s life. (The turtles eat the polystyrene then their stomachs bloat). The Green Team are therefore doing their part to create a better planet for neighbours – and for species who have no idea why they should suffer because of human waste.

Prayer of St John Henry Newman (made a Saint in October 2019):

God has created me to do Him some definite service. He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have my mission. I may never know it in this life, but I shall be told it in the next. I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection between persons.

He has not created me for naught. I shall do good; I shall do His work. I shall be an angel of peace, a preacher of truth in my own place, while not intending it if I do but keep His commandments.

Therefore, I will trust Him, whatever I am, I can never be thrown away. If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him, in perplexity, my perplexity may serve Him. If I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve Him. He does nothing in vain. He knows what He is about. He may take away my friends. He may throw me among strangers. He may make me feel desolate, make my spirits sink, hide my future from me. Still, He knows what He is about.

Mr John Holroyd, Dean of Mission and Identity

The Sports Office is continuing to plan and prepare for the up-coming rugby, chess, cross country and football seasons. Sign-on forms have been distributed. A complete list of all players who have signed on for rugby, chess, cross country and football is now posted on the web. May I please ask parents to check the list and contact the Sports Office if a name does not appear, is misspelt or otherwise.  The rugby, chess, cross country and football training/trial schedules are now confirmed for all teams from Years  5 – 12 and are now published on the web.

At present we are still looking for the following coaching positions (two rugby coaches needed – Fifth XV  and 7 Gold. Four football coaches – Third XI, 10C, 10 Gold and 9 Gold. If you know of any suitable candidates, please inform the Sports Office. A complete list of all coaches and their allocated teams will be posted on the web by mid-next week.  As we all know, the College draws on the support of our parents, staff, old boys and outside friends to fill coaching positions. These people freely give of their time to serve our boys and to give them opportunities to participate and enjoy playing sport. I ask all parents to remember that these good people are here to assist and help your son.

Unwarranted nonsense regarding team selections does nothing but put a sour taste in everybody’s mouth. Believe me, in the big scheme of things, it’s not that important! Please be supportive of our coaches throughout the up-coming rugby and football season and from time to time it may be a good idea to approach the coach and thank them too.

As we approach Round 6 of the current AFL, cricket and volleyball season, I am asking all coaches and players to finish off the season well. The results overall have been very pleasing this season. The cricketers rose to the challenge last weekend v Ashgrove (our number one rival cricket school). The boys in green and gold took out the day in sensational fashion winning eight from the 12 aggregate games played including the First XI game. This puts Villanova in a great position to retain the cricket aggregate. We must not lower our game this weekend or next to let our foe back in with a chance. St Patrick’s and St Laurence’s does have the ability to upset our plans if we do not come out firing or give all due respect to our opposition.

We have several AFL and volleyball teams who also are in premiership contention. Again, these teams need to lift and finish off the season well too. It’s not all about winning but I do expect the boys to go for the win. Win, draw or loss the expectation is we give our best, play hard with the greatest importance placed on sportsmanship and pride in ourselves, our mates and the College.

Finally, to everyone involved in sport this weekend. Play hard and enjoy!

Round 6 Fixtures
Friday 13 and Saturday 14 March, AIC AFL, Cricket and Volleyball v St Patrick’s and Year 5 and Year 6 AFL v Ashgrove

Please refer to the College’s website to view all times and venues for this weekend’s fixtures v St Patrick’s/Ashgrove College. Simply scroll down on the College’s home page to the ‘Latest News’ section and click the ‘Weekly Fixtures’ section.

Mega-Raffle
The Villanova Sports Club is again running a Mega-raffle in 2020. First prize is $10 000 and only 200 tickets will be sold at $100 each. You could buy one ticket on your own or perhaps you could form a syndicate with friends. Over the next two rounds, all those associated with cricket and volleyball are encouraged to form a team syndicate for a chance to win. Please support the Sports Club and ensure you have your team syndicate mega-raffle tickets organised before end of season next week.  Team delegates should contact the Villanova Sports Club President – Mr Jeremy Meredith Mob 0407 895 207 to acquire tickets. All proceeds will benefit Villanova College sport. The raffle to be drawn in Round 7 of the AIC rugby and football season in Term 2.

AIC Cricket
I congratulate all AIC cricket players for their efforts over the weekend. Villanova had a dominant performance against Ashgrove last weekend winning eight from the 12 aggregate games played and overall, we shared the day 15 – 15.  This is a great result in our quest to win the cricket aggregate, as well as seeing boys out there playing competitively and enjoying themselves. Many Villanova teams batted first on the day and posted some good and defendable totals. Many coaches commented on the way the boys bowled and fielded to put pressure on the opposition batters and came away with wins to cap off solid performances.

There are lots of positive stories from many teams across the College about the efforts of their team over the weekend. The common thread being that the Villanova boys showed guts and determination and didn’t give up – many of these teams won, some of these teams put in the same effort and lost. I am proud that all boys stood up and were prepared to be counted on the weekend.

In my many years of experience at schoolboy sport level it is quite common for teams to build themselves up for what is a tough round of fixtures. In this case having lots of success against one College last round. However, we must be vigilant not to ‘drop the ball’ the following week and think the job is done. The same work ethic that got our College into this favourable aggregate position must be used for the remaining two rounds. Now is not the time for celebration!

The boys must continue to work hard at training and on game day this weekend and next week to secure the aggregate and perhaps a team premiership. Despite the results in the trial round against St Patrick’s College, I ask all players not to take the opposition lightly this weekend. A dropped game this weekend may be the difference in the end. All teams must do their bit until the very end. St. Patrick’s College do not have as many teams as Villanova, but they have been building over the years and are currently sitting third in the aggregate points table.  Good luck this weekend boys!

Year 6 Team Lists
Our Year 6 coloured teams have been playing short over the last few rounds because of illness and boys not showing up. This week 6 Green is on a BYE, so we have dispersed their players to fill in the gaps and give everyone a go in what has already been a short season. Please check the lists for player changes. Next week, 6 Blue is on a BYE, so their team will be split up to cover holes for the last round. All the boys are to go to their regular training times with their own team.

AIC Cricket Results v Ashgrove
(Rounds 1 and 2 were washed out)

AIC Volleyball
Mr Todd Kropp, AIC Volleyball Co-ordinator

Congratulations to all teams who were successful on the weekend against Marist Ashgrove. There were several close matches with many going to a deciding set. With two rounds of the AIC Competition to go, Villanova players will be looking to improve on our strong results from our earlier trial against SPC. Given the two tough battles that remain, I encourage players to continue to work hard on the court during training and match times and to value every point by fighting to the end. We have encountered several close finishes throughout the season through deciding sets or close scores. During these times it is imperative that we continue the same process that got us to this point of the match and that we aren’t intimidated by the opponent, the surroundings or the point of the match.

I look forward to the matches in Goold Hall this weekend where our Senior teams will do battle with SPC. A reminder that we are responsible for court duty and this roster will be available on the College website.

Check out this match point clip from the 10C game where our boys picked up the win after going 15-13 in the final set.

Volleyball Team Photos – Round 6, Saturday 14 March
Photos will be taken this weekend for all Years 10 – 12 volleyball teams. Please check website for the schedule and ensure that all players are on time and dressed in the full and correct volleyball uniform. All players are asked to wear Villanova College sports socks for the photo.

Volleyball Canteen Roster
We kindly ask parents to assist when their son is rostered on for court duty, or during pre-game warm up as per the schedule below:

AIC Volleyball Results v Ashgrove

AIC AFL
Mr Adam Fry, AFL Co-ordinator

A mixed bag of results from the weekend saw us come away with four wins and three losses against some strong opposition. Our Juniors continue to fly the flag and have really started their Villanova sporting journey well, playing in good spirits, and as one strong team. The Year 8/9 team are also performing nicely and should be commended on their strong wins over the first few weeks of the season. It is important over the following two weeks, we as a College finish the season off well. Our 8/9’s, 6B’s and 5A’s are still all vying for undefeated seasons and our 7’s still in with a chance to claim the premiership should a result or two go our way.

Over the last couple of games some behaviour and actions from Villanova College students on and off the field have generated some negative perceptions from other schools. As soon as you step onto that field, whether warm-up, first bounce or even supporter, you are representing the Villanova community. Our actions stand out both positive and negative and it is imperative that they are all positive over the following two weeks. We play the game hard and with a determination to win, but always in the spirit of the game with fairness and integrity to our teammates and all opposition. All players and spectators have an obligation as a student of Villanova College to represent what we as a College stand for.

Finish the season well gentlemen and ensure that you take every opportunity presented to you over the coming weeks. We encourage as many supporters as possible to attend at all games this weekend.  The Junior players would welcome any support the older boys can offer on Saturday morning, as they love to watch the older teams play on Friday evenings. Please ensure you check the website for your game times this weekend.

Good luck to all teams and make sure you wear that Villanova jersey with pride.

AIC AFL Results v Ashgrove/St Laurence’s

Opens – Marist College Ashgrove 8.5(53) defeated Villanova College 3.8(26)
Year 8/9 – Villanova College 12.9(81) defeated Marist College Ashgrove 2.1(13)
Year 7 – Marist College Ashgrove 5.9(39) defeated Villanova College 2.2(14)
6A – St Laurence’s College 10.4(64) defeated Villanova College 9.6(60)
6B – Villanova College 18.11(119) defeated St Laurence’s College 1.0(6)
5A – Villanova College 7.11(53) defeated St Laurence’s College 5.6(36)
5B – Villanova College 11.14(80) defeated. St Laurence’s College 1.0(6)

AFL Team Photos – Round 6, Saturday 14 March
Photos will be taken this weekend for all Year 5 and Year 6 AFL teams. Please check the website for the schedule and ensure that all players are on time and dressed in the full and correct AFL uniform.  Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled photo time under the Villanova tent. The managers will then take the team to the photo location.

 No Dog Policy
A reminder to Villanova parents that there is a NO DOG policy at all AIC sporting fixtures. There has been a concern from some of the venue coordinators, including Villanova Park that pet owners are ignoring the signs placed on the gates at each venue. All pet owners who ignore the signs will be asked to remove their pets from the venue immediately. This is also the case for all State Schools.

AIC Rugby/Football Coaches – Thank you
It is pleasing to report that nearly all coaching positions in both rugby and football have been filled (although we still need seven coaches. Rugby – we need a Fifth XV and a 7 Gold coach, Football – we still require a Third XI , 10C, 10 Gold and 9 Gold coach). Coaches have been contacted via email with regards to their allocated team placement. Once we get confirmation from coaches, we will post the list of coaches on the web. At this early stage I thank the coaches for their willingness to be involved for our boys to play sport.

AIC Rugby/Football Referees – Needed
If you can assist with refereeing rugby or football matches, please contact the staff below. We are still in need of referees.

Rugby Year 5 – 12 – ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
Football Year 5 – 12 – akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au

AIC Rugby and Football Training/Trial Season Schedule
The complete Year 5 – 12 rugby and football training schedule has been published in the last two – three Villa Views.  This schedule is posted on the College’s website under the AIC Rugby and AIC Football sections.

Rugby and football Trials will begin the week commencing Monday 23 March, that is, the very next week after AFL/cricket/volleyball. This is the second last week of Term 1 before the Easter break.

AIC Rugby and Football Trial Games – Date Claimers 

Monday 23 – 27 March (rugby and football training/trials begins at Villanova Park for all Year 7 – 12 teams, Year 5 and Year 6 teams will trial at Little Langlands)

Saturday 28 March Internal Year 5 – 12 AIC rugby and football trials (First XV Second XV rugby and First XI and Second XI football v SLC only, all other teams will trial internally at Villanova Park)

Saturday 25 April (ANZAC Day) AIC rugby and Football v SPC (full school trial) As these trials will occur on ANZAC Day, all games will take place from 12 midday onwards.  Most games will be played at Villanova Park with some games being played at Curlew Park. A special ceremony will be held at Villanova Park before the First XI and First XV games to commemorate the day.

Saturday 2 May Round 1 – Saturday 13 June Round 7 as per College calendar

AIC Chess Training/Trials
Mrs Sally England, AIC Chess Co-ordinator

The chess season has commenced but there does seem to be confusion on the part of the boys who are new to Chess, so I will outline the process so that it is clear for all involved.

Junior Chess
Junior chess has commenced and is available on Wednesday and Thursday Morning Tea (first break) with Mr Morley-Buchanan in T12, which is opposite the Year 6 classes upstairs in the Middle School. It commences at the start of first break so that a game can be completed during that time. This is for both CHESS CLUB and AIC TEAMS so that, if the boys have put their name on a list, they need to be at T12 at these times. If they no longer want to participate, please inform Mrs England or Mr Morley- Buchanan.

AIC TEAMS: To be part of this team, the boys must play on the days mentioned above.  If they are unable to play, then they need to see Mrs England to discuss what options are available.  The boys must also be available to play on Friday nights in Term 2. If they are not, then they can only be a member of the Chess Club and play for fun.  There are three teams – A, B and C. There will only be 16 positions available for the Junior teams which will be chosen over the rest of this term into next term, until the competition starts.

Chess Club is for those players who cannot make Friday nights or who just want to play for fun. Again, it is in T12 at Morning Tea on Wednesday and Thursday.

All Junior chess players can play in the Tolle Lege Library at any other break time and are encouraged to do so.

Intermediate and Senior Teams
These groups have also started playing and T10 is available for them to play every at every Morning Tea break with Mrs Warren and Mrs England. Play offs are now occurring for positions in those team. There are three teams in Intermediate – A, B and C, again with 16 positions with students from Years 7 – 9.  The Senior group consists of the Open Team (any Year level from 7 – 12), Senior A and Senior B from Year 10 – 12. There will also be coaching once a week, on a day which is yet to be determined. All students need to be available on Friday nights in Term 2. Students who do not make the team are welcome to play at Morning Tea as well in this term, but once competition starts in Term 2, are encouraged to play in the Tolle Lege Library.

For all teams, two trial games will commence the season and permissions forms will be sent home. Previous newsletters also have further information on the season. Please contact Mrs England if there are any enquiries.

Representative Sport
Well done to the boys below for making the Met East Swim Team that will compete at the State Championships held at Chandler in late March.  The efforts put in by each of those listed below reflects many hours, weeks, months and in some cases years of hard work and training. All these boys are to be congratulated on their perseverance and efforts – William Vig, Harrison Vig, Jack Hewitt, Tyler Clelland, Caden Clelland and Thomas De Brito.

Well done to Cameron Bukowski who has recently made the 14 – 15 years Met East Rugby League Team that will compete at the State Championships in late May. An excellent effort Cameron!

Congratulations goes to Thomas Winn and Jordy McGarry who were recently selected to represent Met East at the Queensland State Golf Championship held in late April.  Well done Thomas and Jordy!

Composite Sport
Please find below a list of composite trial and nomination dates. Paperwork for these trials is now available in the Sport Office.

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

Enrolment changes for Term 2
Please note that the census date for all alterations to Instrumental Music Enrolments for term 2 will be Monday 16 March.  Any changes after this date will not be made until Term 3; charges and fees will stand for Term 2.

If you would like to adjust or change your son’s enrolment, please contact the Music Office for an enrolment form.  Complete and submit the form to music@vnc.qld.edu.au before 4.00pm on Monday 16 March.

 Music Support Group
Our fantastic Music Support Group met on Monday evening for the second time this year.  The group have developed a series of fundraising goals for the year and will be working to promote their activities and events to the broader college community.  We look forward to your offers of support with front-of-house or bar/barbecue sales across the year.  More information to follow!

Debut Concert Series
Debut Concert Series for 2020 will be convened next week on Tuesday and Thursday evening.  We are asking that students remain for the entire concert they are involved in to support their Villanova brothers.  I have communicated home to Year 11 students and parents regarding this request and block exam period.  If you did not receive this communication (and your son is in Year 11) please contact me through the Music Office.

The Music Support Group will be running a Sausage Sizzle and bar with refreshments prior to each concert from 5.30pm.  Students will be required backstage before 5.45pm.  Each concert will commence at 6.30pm.  If a student is not performing, they will be required to be in the auditorium unless backstage with their ensemble director.

The following information has been emailed home, along with a reminder around performance uniform requirements for these performances.  Ensembles will be appearing on the following evenings (not in performance order):

Thank you all in advance – I look forward to seeing you at these events next week.

Entertainment Books
Every year, our Music Support Group participates in the Entertainment Book drive.  This year, Entertainment Books are selling their digital format only.  Information will be distributed to students involved in the music performance program at Villanova over the coming fortnight.

Entertainment Memberships can start anytime and are packed with thousands of substantial savings on dining, travel and fun family activities. The digital membership is easy to download to start using instantly. New offers are added weekly for ongoing value all year round. Ordering information is available here.

Would your business like to reach 20K people in the music or education market?
This year is the 30^th Anniversary of QCMF.  If you would like to promote your product or services to over 20,000 people from across Queensland at this fantastic event, please contact our Festival Business Development Manager, Gordon Hughes – ghughes@vnc.qld.edu.au or 3394 5691.

Date Claimers
As is tradition, we look forward to the fantastic events we have planned in the near future:

Thank you all for your continued support of Villanova Music.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

Helping Hands – School Holiday Program
Helping Hands offers care for children in Year 5, Year 6 and Year 7 at Villanova College. Enrolling is easy and there are no fees for registering. Families can enrol online via our website www.helpinghandsnetwork.com.au or call the Helping Hands service on 0437 784 379 for further information.

Helping Hands is excited to announce that bookings for the Term 1 school holiday period are now open! Our program has been tailored especially for the Villanova boys with great activities planned every day. From a trip to the Workshops Rail Museum to a visit from the Brisbane Roar Active Program, there really is something for everyone.

These sessions will run across the holiday break on weekdays from Monday 6 April until Monday 20  April, from 6.30am to 6.00pm. Please note that we will be closed on Good Friday (10 April) and Easter Monday (13 April). For more information please see the attached brochure.

Anthony Tizzone, Villanova Helping Hands Co-ordinator

Library Roster

Monday 16 March
Tiffany Tento
Rebecca Oliver

Tuesday 17 March
Donna Leahy
Cristina Palacios

Wednesday 18 March
Katia Sukkar

Thursday 19 March
Jaclyn O’Shea
Kristn White

Friday 20 March
Melanie Pickering

Tuckshop

Tuckshop Menu 
Our 2020 Tuckshop menu is available by clicking here.

Roster

Monday 16 March
Heather Martin
Leah Coogans
Mary Sclavos
Sylvia Vaitsas
Steve Miller
Mandy Tong
Krysten Mackey

Tuesday 17 March
Jo Phillips
Lisa Meredith
Jilane Anderson
Deanne Perrier
Nicole Binney
Mel Reynolds
Emma Slee
Jenni Robinson
Tish Hyman
Julie Berkman
Ange Nunn

Wednesday 18 March
Lisa Prendergast
Lisa Moroney
Clare Godwin
Paivi McIntosh
Jean Egan
Peta Diedrichs
Loretta Jordan-Vieira
Penny Chalmers

Thursday 19 March
Christy Grigson
Wendy Wallis
Tracey Wells
Diana McGregor
Janine Pugh
Maria Horton
Kerry Lapish
Naomi Greenwood
Lan Tran
Tina Anastasia
Tiffany Tento
Melissa Bruce

Friday 20 March
Lesley Stevens
Amanda Robinson-Ilka
Merissa Ryan
Barbara Dardengo
Amanda Knight
Melody Phillips
Lucinda Timms
Cherie Barry
Jodie McGrory

Loreto College Dance
The Loreto College Dance for Years 9 – 12 students on Friday 13 March has been cancelled.

Langlands House
By 1865 the first “Langlands” farmhouse was built by Jane Temple on her 76 acres in rural Coorparoo.  Reuben Nicklin purchased this property in 1876 and in the early 1880’s decided to replace the farmhouse with a more comfortable modern eight room home on the crest of the hill.

The new house was built of sandstone and brick, with verandahs on all sides and a detached kitchen at the rear.  The eight rooms included three bedrooms, each with its own marble fireplace, a drawing room, dining room, library, bathroom and servant’s room.

The 1880’s was a boom period and in 1886 financially successful Nicklin undertook the building of a second home in Coorparoo.  The new house was a two storey 12 roomed house with wide verandahs on both levels.  Reuben Nicklin, his wife Jane Lahey and children Alice, George and William moved into Hatherton in 1887.  This property is now known as Queen Alexandra Home.

No longer needing Langlands Farm, Nicklin subdivided the estate and proceeded to auction the 568 housing allotments along with the homestead with its fine carriage driveway leading off Cleveland Road.

A description appeared in the Daily Telegraph, 30 January 1886, as a sales advertisement:

“It is impossible to pass along Cleveland Road without noticing, beyond its junction with Logan Road, a handsome gentleman’s residence, situated at the top of a hill with a carriage drive …which at once suggests that the owner is a man of taste.  The residence referred to is Langlands House, which is a substantial and well-finished residence replete with all the latest improvements, in a high state of repair, with a beautiful flower garden.  The house, together with close on three acres of land forming the very best part of the estate, and occupying a position which could not be excelled, will also be sold, thus affording a splendid opportunity to any gentleman who wishes to secure a superior residence on liberal terms at a cheap figure.

The property was sold to Thomas William Connah in 1886.  Connah was Qld Auditor General from 1909 to 1915.  30 years later and following the death of Thomas in 1915, his widow sold Langlands House and the surrounding land to the Roman Catholic Church on 16 April 1916 for £4,600.