Villa View: Issue 07/21

Dear Members of the Villanova College Family,
The stories that have emerged regarding the sexual interactions between young people have been distressing and disturbing. The petition posted online by a young 22-year-old female brought into the open horrific stories of abuse. Thousands of stories from predominantly young women have flooded the petition from across Australia and from many private and public schools.

Personally, I was shocked to read these accounts and to see the reports in the media. This situation has been a call to action, not only for schools but also for all families. At Villanova College our clearly stated goal is the development of fine young men. Together with our families, we need to do more in educating our students in respectful relationships and sexual consent.

Last Friday we held the first meeting of the Advisory Group to examine what is currently taught to our students on Relationships, Sexuality and Sexual Consent from Years 5-12 and the topics covered. Education on these topics also occurs in the Personal Development Programs as well as in the formal curriculum. The Advisory Group is made up of teachers from the College and will be joined by appropriate experts in the field as well as representation from the parent body and past students.

The Advisory Group has the important task to provide advice to the College and staff on the best methods to effectively educate our young men in an age-appropriate manner on respectful relationships, sexuality and sexual consent. This work will take some time and we are very conscious of involving families in this important education of our young men.

To assist families, parents/caregivers, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg has produced this special report: A Conversation on Consent. Click on the image below to begin viewing.

I will keep our families informed as we move through these issues that are confronting us at this time. Our investment in our young people is so important and continues to drive our actions.

AIC Cricket, Volleyball and AFL
This weekend will see the conclusion of the AIC Cricket, Volleyball and AFL seasons. Overall, the students have had a fantastic season and we are very grateful for the support of our families, coaches and managers. Our young men are advantaged by the generosity of so many people who give of their time to support their development. Thank you to the coaches, managers, supporters, scorers, umpires, grounds staff and our great Sports Office for their work during the season.

I am confident our students have learnt many lessons during the season. We have seen teams win graciously and learn to lose without complaining or blaming others. Students have learnt determination, perseverance and grit especially when things did not go their way. Our young men have learnt the skills to be a part of a team and to work together to achieve a common goal. All of these skills can be applied to life and study in a positive manner well after the games have concluded.

You have made us for Yourself O Lord
And our hearts are restless until they rest in You.

God bless

Mr Mark Stower, Principal

In keeping with the spirit of Reconciliation, Villanova College acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we stand.  We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging.  This has always been, and always will be, a place of teaching and learning connected to country, culture and community. 

The art of writing is a unique skill that only humankind uses. Over many years, writing has been the avenue for people to learn new information, work with others and express thoughts and opinions. It has also allowed societies to record historical events, document cultural significances and provide knowledge.

Whilst many would link writing to school or the workplace, writing is quite simply a life skill. Regardless of age, culture or your occupation, it is essential that everyone has the ability to write to communicate with others; this can be through a letter, a card, an email, a report or even a poem. In writing, one’s communication can affect life and its outcomes.

Writing is also personal and in acknowledging this, you are stating that no one else can write for you. You are the only one that express your own thoughts and ideas. It is quite simply confirming what you are feeling and your thoughts at a point in time.

For these reasons – and many more – it is vital that everyone has a grasp on writing well.

The College has been working in conjunction with Write That Essay (www.writethatessay.org) for five years to develop the skills of our students’ writing. The system is based on the explicit teaching of specific writing skills from Years 5 to Year 12.  The approach is based on research and a proven approach to writing; it promotes the use of a range of sentence styles, paragraph types and rules for writing.  The Write That Essay approach is delivered in a way whereby writing skills are easily teachable, outcomes are measurable and it can be applied in a way that supports writing in all subject areas.

In implementing the approach, a lot of the grammar jargon that students are often introduced to is removed.  Instead, teachers and students learn the rules of great writing by learning:

• 12 distinct sentence styles.
• 8 paragraph styles which mirror the cognitive and writing demands of their respective year level.
• how to combine and sequence sentence and paragraph styles in order to craft a cohesive response to any task or activity

For students in Years 5 and 6, teachers have so far worked with classes to introduce them to the language of Write That Essay. They have also begun looking at a variety of the sentence styles and how these might be incorporated in their writing. Middle School classes have continued to build the knowledge they have learned over the past three to four years by engaging with Write That Essay’s online writing tool. In the coming weeks, we will provide parents with class updates and more information about how this approach can support their son’s writing.

Mr John Christie, Dean of Teaching and Learning

2021 Assessment Tasks have begun and over the next few weeks the boys will be undertaking a variety of experiences that require them to show their knowledge and understanding utilising their skills.  ACARA (Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority) set the Achievement Standards which our Year 5 and 6 students will aim to meet, to the best of their ability, after partaking in teaching and learning experiences planned by our class teachers.

So, what is different in 2021?  Well, for Year 6 students they will notice a shift more so than our Year 5s.  Except for Mathematics, there will be far less content assessed that would normally be rote learnt for the Knowledge and Understanding sections in assessment tasks.  Labelling, listing, defining and matching facts moves towards using the information learnt in deeper cognitions – analyse, apply, compare, describe, develop, evaluate, examine, explain, identify, infer, interpret, make decisions, represent, select and understand.

Primary cognitive verb toolkit | Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (qcaa.qld.edu.au) are our explicit skills required to be shown in tasks and exams.

What does it mean for our students?  How can we help them best prepare for assessment tasks?  Here is a guide that may help our Year 5 parents actively support their sons and clarify for our Year 6 parents the changes we are making.

1. Attendance at school is very important. Plan your holidays and trips, wherever possible, for the weekends and official College break periods.  Learning experiences in the classroom are going to be strategically designed by staff – focusing on the knowledge and skills required to master.  This will be challenging to replicate at home, however, please feel free to use the links provided above to become familiar with what you are able.  Catching up on missed work if absent, or attending an appointment as soon as you can, is key to our students staying on track and having the best platform for their success.
2. Give feedback the priority it deserves – it is vital. How the boys organise themselves, use their time productively, make decisions that benefit their ability and engage with the learning matters.  If a teacher makes a suggestion, corrects mistakes, or clarifies areas for improvement, then the boys must act upon the advice and make changes.
3. Do the homework – it is a part of the learning process. Assessment tasks are generally up to the individual, and so completing work at home is partly going to give an indication of how they can manage the work without mates or a teacher prompting them.  Having trouble?  Ask for help – that is exactly what we want you to do.  Be brave and work with your teachers so that you can reach your potential.
4. Parents – remember that your boys have a long journey ahead of them. They have six years until results impact an ATAR score or help with the transition to Certificates/Apprenticeships and TAFE.  That means they have time to figure out that just being “present” at school will not necessarily get them the grades they may like.  Our students need to work out their strengths and challenges within their ability to read, identify, and fulfill their assessment tasks.  A grade does not define your son, but the resilience and future planning for the next task will tell us a great deal about him as a learner.  There is at least 70% more information from his class teachers about his work ethic and effort every day to consider.  We will have standardized testing to help provide a wider picture of an individual’s scope at this time.  Learning is never stagnated – it grows and changes, accelerate and decelerates, depending on many factors.
5. Remember your own school experiences and the perfect imperfection of life as a student. How important friends are for mindset, a sense of belonging is to feeling calm, and that everybody gets to where they need to be at their own pace.  Even undertaking assessment can change a person’s ability to think clearly, so let us be prepared for some experiences to build confidence.  Some people can be academic, sporty, musical, technically minded, witty, theatrical, design intellects, or creative sparks.  There are entrepreneurs and millionaires who found their own path to success outside of the “norm”.  What our sons really need, no matter what, is our full support and understanding.

So, stay in touch with OneNote class books, check your son’s work books, and look for teacher emails and feedback.  Our staff are working very hard to ensure your sons can do their best, knowing that the best platforms have been built prior to the assessment being undertaken.

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

I sat down on Monday night with my wife to watch the interview that Oprah Winfrey conducted with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. As the commercial breaks appeared, we found ourselves quickly debriefing what we were watching.

Irrespective of the way people chose to process and interpret this interview, there was one reality that wasn’t lost on me. Here we had an incredibly privileged couple, choosing to use one of the biggest platforms of the modern media era (a pre-recorded sit-down with Oprah Winfrey) to talk about bullying, racism and mental health. They chose this platform because they felt that they needed to have their voice heard.

This prompted me to ask the question: what platform do our young people use when they need to talk about issues such as racism, bullying or mental health? As we’re aware, many teens turn to social media to express their thoughts, views and emotions. Unfortunately, most of these platforms are heavily saturated with a melting pot of profiles and viewpoints [not all of them healthy], and rarely will they provide the appropriate listening, and fully present, ear that our young people need.

The ‘Oprah platform’ that Meghan and Harry used caught the attention on millions worldwide. Our young men may need much less attention than this, but they definitely need some!

What our young men need in their lives is adults who will make time for them, sit, and actively listen to them. The Raising Children website (https://raisingchildren.net.au) says this about active listening, “Good listening is the best way to show your child that you’re genuinely interested and that you really care. It also helps to avoid conflict caused by misunderstandings.”

As parents, we tend to intuit when, and where, is the best time to engage in deeper conversations with our children. But do we then follow through and set aside time in our busy lives? Are we conscious of the importance of what we’re doing when we ‘actively listen’ to our children?

One parent shared with me this week that her and her son check in every night at bedtime. The 10 or so minutes, which started organically some months ago, gives them an opportunity to debrief the day together. They both speak and they both listen. This small ritual has become a great healing, therapeutic, and relationship strengthening exercise, the benefits of which benefits far outweigh the time investment.

Meghan and Harry wanted to use the biggest possible platform to raise their issues; but, whatever the platform, what was discussed is relevant to all of us. In an adult context (Royal Family included), these issues are complex, easily misunderstood, carry high levels of emotion, and come with high-stakes consequences. In the minds of teenagers, where cognitive processing and reasoning already presents a real struggle, these issues are greatly magnified.

As educators and parents, we need to ensure we create quality time and appropriate spaces for our children to unpack what they feel that life has just thrown at them. To listen, to engage, and to gently counsel is to not only help them at the time, but to model for them a way forward with their own children.

All the best for the week ahead.

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

Positive Education Curriculum
As outlined to parents earlier in the term at the series of Parent Information Evenings, one of the strategic intentions within the College’s approach to student wellbeing this year has been the trial of an explicit Positive Education curriculum within the Senior School Formation Program. The Positive Education Enhanced Curriculum is underpinned by the PERMAH Framework:

• Positive Emotions
• Engagement
• Relationships
• Meaning
• Accomplishment
• Health

Within our Form Meeting Program across the Senior School, the Pastoral Area Leaders will be incorporating a series of workshops throughout the year which focus on these six aspects of student wellbeing and flourishing.

Last week, our Year 11 students engaged in a workshop which focused on relationships, which is a fundamental aspect of our ethos at Villanova College. Exploring the underpinning components of healthy relationships, the first part of the workshop asked our young men to consider how respect is cultivated through:

1. Being aware of your own feelings
2. Being able to express your feelings
3. Knowing how to listen non-defensively and without judgement
4. Knowing how to validate your feelings
5. Believing that feelings have value
6. Believing that feelings matter

In the discussions I had with the students in my workshop group, we aligned some of these statements with a discussion around the challenge of young men to show the courage to be vulnerable.

I look forward to continuing to share the work we are doing with our Senior School students in this important area of their personal development.

Year 10 Transition into Senior School Interviews
Over the course of the last month, Year 10 Pastoral Area Leader Mr Sean O’Neill and I have been conducting our Transition into Senior School Interviews with all Year 10 students. This is a significant undertaking to conduct 163 interviews in four weeks, however, both Sean and I both value the opportunity to connect with our new members of the Senior School and to ensure that they are well supported in adjusting to the challenges associated with their new learning pathways. Utilising the TrackOne Data Analytics Goal Setting Module, we have explored with the students their approach to study, their engagement in their new learning environment, whether they have chosen the right electives, their grade aspirations for the semester ahead and the specific strategies that will be employed to achieve their subject goals. Sean and I have been impressed with the maturity and honesty underpinning our conversations and how a great majority of students have positively responded to the increased expectations of the Senior School – both inside and outside the classroom.

“Evil prospers when good men do nothing.” – John Philpot Curran

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Living Gratefully and Walking Humbly!
The week began on Sunday with our Green Team taking part in Clean Up Australia Day at our local Norman Creek. On Monday, the College celebrated International Women’s Day with a stall for students to make a pledge for respectful interactions and encouragement of the girls and women they mix with.  In the following you will hopefully find some opportunities to engage with Lent in practical ways and to see the way small contributions together make a difference to others.

Green Team in Action: Clean Up at Norman Creek
On Sunday morning, bright and early, six Senior School students ventured out to Norman Creek to clean up the banks of the creek as part of a national effort on Clean Up Australia Day. These environmental warriors who gave up their Sunday morning sleep-ins included: Harrison Bryant, Harrison White, Tom Hoctor, Riley Richards, Conrad Hinds and Jack Carson. Credit must also be given to Mr White and Mr Bryant who joined our merry band, along with Mrs Giles and her entire family.

To start the day, Mr Col Grant, a long time teacher at Villanova, led an acknowledgement of country, recognising that the land we were cleaning was of sacred significance to the Jagera and Turrbal people.

Trekking a circuit on the banks of Norman Creek nearest to Villanova College, several interesting items were pulled out of the bank. Among these interesting finds were soccer balls and handballs as well as many bottle caps, plastic bottles and even a plastic crate and chair!

At the end of our collection, one of the community volunteers coordinating the day surveyed our rubbish and said that over the years Norman Creek has been looking cleaner thanks to the work of the Villa boys during clean ups as well as a more aware local community. The coordinator also noted that there were less plastic bags and cans in the creek as a result of recycling schemes and the banning of plastic bags.

A big thank you to Green Team captains Harrison White and Keegan Bell for their promotion of the event. We also very grateful to Mr Grant, Fr Saldie, Mrs Giles and Mr Stockton for your assistance in helping run the event and for your hands-on support on the day.

Miss Nicole Jones, Service Learning Coordinator

Date Claimer
Emmanuel City Mission (ECM), based in South Brisbane, provides fun, shelter and companionship to those in West End who are experiencing homelessness.

Our own values align strongly with those of Emmanuel City Mission. Over recent years, the College has developed a strong relationship with ECM with both staff and students volunteering there with increasing regularity.

There is an opportunity for families to get involved over the Easter weekend, with a special effort to extend their hours and stay open from Good Friday until Easter Sunday and provide three hot meals a day, a place to rest and a welcoming community to those in need 24/7. The festival will finish with an Easter Sunday Mass and lunch, to which all are welcome.

We are currently investigating ways that Villanova College could become part of the festival in some way. Suggestions include:

• Providing a breakfast (Easter Saturday or Sunday) or lunch (Good Friday or Easter Saturday) for the visitors
• Undertake a drive for Easter eggs and cans of soft drink to be handed out during the celebrations
• Any other donations or contributions

There will be an opportunity to register to be involved in next week’s Villa View.

NDA – National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence
The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence (NDA) is an important day to mark Australian school communities standing together against bullying and violence.

On Friday 19 March our College will be a sea of orange as we raise awareness and unite to create positive change for students, staff and the school climate.

For sale on the day will be wristbands ($1 each) and a variety of treats and drinks. More details will be provided in morning notices next week. The purpose of this day is to raise awareness, and not on raising funds.

COMPETITION: We also have a competition for any student or staff member to enter.  Around the College you will notice Student Voices posters, with messages from a student on the poster. You are invited to enter by downloading the MYO Student Poster template at https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/resources/classroom-resources,  inserting your photo and your own catchy tip for “Saying No to Bullying”. Once it is complete, save your poster (including name and grade) as a PDF and email to kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au before 3:00pm on Thursday 18 March. These will be displayed on a wall of posters, so the more the better! Prizes are on offer for the very best!

YAYM will also be running a booth where students from the Middle School can come to create their poster at lunchtime on Wednesday and Thursday.  More details will be in the daily notices. 

Work and Welcome Becomes Ongoing Work

“Give a man a fish, and he’ll eat for a day.
Teach a man to fish, and he’ll eat for life.”

Over a number of years Villanova has been part of the “Work and Welcome” scheme, in which staff contribute voluntarily to a fund so that we can together provide the opportunity for a workplace for refugees.  Last year in Term 4, Bruno joined our Grounds and Maintenance team and we are delighted that he has been able to continue with the experience gained as a paid member of this team now employed by the College.

It is a great example of the small ways we can together make a huge difference in the lives of people.

‘Be a Voice’ in Lent

“I encourage you to… seek ever more creative ways to transform our institutions and economic structures so that they may be able to respond to the needs of our day and be in service of the human person, especially those marginalised and discarded.”
Pope Francis

As our Lenten theme of ‘Be more’ continues this lent, this week Caritas invites us to “be a voice” as another way to build a more just world.

This is your opportunity to stand up, speak out, join a campaign.

Put your faith into action.  Amplify the voices of people experiencing extreme poverty and injustice.

As Catholics we believe that every person has the responsibility to work towards the common good and look beyond personal interests.

We have the freedom to be informed and inform others of important social justice issues.  We also have the freedom to stand up and be heard by decision makers.

Speaking out for others is part of living our faith – of living Caritas.

Caritas Australia’s advocacy work focuses on the priorities of our partners – we try our best to convey and amplify their voices.  Advocacy is focused around three main issues: Climate Justice, First Australian subsidiarity and the Australian Aid budget.  There is an invitation throughout the year with petitions, letter writing campaigns and more.  Our collective voice can shape the future and open up new horizons of hope and action for justice.

For further information about these campaigns visit www.caritas.org.au/youth

At home over the coming week a great dinner conversation would be to discuss how you can use your freedom to speak out against injustice.

God of Justice, awaken in me the determination to work for a more just world.
God of Love, prompt me to always seek the truth.
God of Compassion, strengthen me to raise my voice in solidarity with those experiencing poverty and marginalisation.
God of Strength, enliven in me the courage to stand beside those fighting injustice.
God of Grace, inspire me to be  more rather than to want more.
May I learn to walk your way of mercy and compassion with all.
May I be generous with what you have freely given so that my brothers and sisters can live life to the full.

Amen

Sunday Readings at Home
Please use this link to access this week’s readings and commentaries:

Ms Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

The Sports Office is continuing to plan and prepare for the upcoming rugby, chess, cross country and football seasons. The online sign-on forms have been collated. 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. All details are entered by the person electronically via the online sign-on form, so we are hoping the lists are correct.  The rugby, chess, cross country and football training/trial schedules are now confirmed for all teams from Year 5-12 and are now published on the web.

At present we are still looking for the following coaching positions:

• Rugby (three coaches required): 7D, 7E and 9E
• Football (two coaches required): 5^th and 7A

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.

I wish all teams the very best this weekend as we approach the final round of AIC Cricket, AFL and Volleyball. All AFL and cricket players are having a good season with great results produced most weeks. The results in volleyball probably do not look the best on paper, however, I do not believe the set scores are indicative of how close many games have been.

The positive culture we have and create within our school can go a long way to enhancing our sports program. Supporting our teammates and other teams, showing good work ethic at training and respecting the coach, wanting to be involved and improve, being resilient and shrugging off setbacks which comes everyone’s way from time to time, having 100% pride in oneself, the school and the jersey, to mention a few, are all positive attributes we are looking to instil in our boys. Building and maintaining this type of culture within our students may give them the confidence to back them-selves and to put in that bit extra needed when the going gets tough. Well done to all involved.

Rugby and football training/trials commence next week. All students should know their training times and venues, if not, please visit the College’s website to view all information. All teams training at Villa Park will be bussed to the venue after school. Buses will depart from the front of the school. Parents are responsible for collecting their son after training from all venues.

In preparation for the upcoming rugby and football season, I ask all parents to assist the College by reiterating the points listed below with your son regarding the College’s approach to footy training. It will make a difference if you do.

‘The Villanova Way – How We Approach Training’

• Make sure you turn up to training well before the start time. If it is a 6.45am start, we get there at 6.30am to start at 6.45am.
• Eat the correct foods before training
• Bring and wear all safety equipment including mouthguards (compulsory for rugby), shin guards, head gear and boots. This allows all players to participate in all activities planned
• Bring a water bottle, have it filled with water and place it nearby when training for quick and easy access. Having boys run off to join a lengthy line at a tap for water, breaks the momentum of training and wastes valuable time
• Be attentive to coaches – listen, learn and try to improve. Do not kick balls or throw passes when a coach speaks
• Be respectful to coaches and do your part to ensure the team does likewise. If you have an issue. Speak to the coach about it
• Be a team player and think what is best for the team. You may be a good second rower but if it is better for the team to play you at flanker – then play there
• Always thank the coach after training with a handshake
• Enjoy playing for Villa and always have pride in the jersey!!

Please take the time to read the information about rugby and football trials commencing next week as found in an article further on. By this time all should be aware that there is no hire system in place for jerseys. All players must purchase their own kit.

We hope to finish the AFL, cricket and volleyball seasons off well this weekend. This will be the final time many of our Year 12 students will play their respective sport representing Villa. I thank them for their efforts and wish them all the best as they look to bow out of schoolboy AFL, cricket and volleyball on a high regardless of the score. Enjoy the last round all!

Round 7 Fixtures – Friday 12 & Saturday 13 March, AIC AFL, Cricket and Volleyball
(v Padua College and Year 5&6 AFL v Iona)

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

AIC CRICKET
I congratulate all AIC cricket players for their efforts over the weekend. Villanova had a dominant performance v St Edmund’s College winning six from six aggregate games played. Overall, Villanova lost only seven matches.  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. It all comes down to the final round and we believe we are sitting at the top of the aggregate ladder, with just a couple of points separating us from Iona and Ashgrove.

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 Villa boys showed guts and determination and did not 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.

The Dreaded Hangover (a must read) – 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 final round. There is no time to party after last week’s performances and there is no time for hangovers this week.

The boys must continue to work hard and prepare themselves for their matches this weekend to secure the aggregate and perhaps a team premiership. I ask all players not to take the opposition lightly. A dropped game this weekend may be the difference in the end. All teams must do their bit till the very end. Padua College have some excellent teams and they will be wanting to finish their season off strongly.

We wish all 28 cricket teams across the College the best of luck for their last game and we urge all players to take the time to thank their coaches for their commitment and encouragement of all players throughout the season.

AIC Cricket Results v SEC

Villanova Team of the Week – Round 6

AIC VOLLEYBALL
Mr Todd Kropp, AIC Volleyball Co-ordinator

This past round of AIC competition saw our Villa teams take on a well-drilled St Edmund’s College. It was a fierce round of volleyball with many matches being decided by a third set. I congratulate all teams on our performance from the weekend, it is great to still see our teams displaying the Villa volleyball expectations so late in the season.

With only one round of the AIC competition to go, it will be easy for us to take our ‘foot off the pedal’. It is crucial that our teams prepare well for this weekend for our round against Padua. This weekend presents a great opportunity for us to travel up the aggregate ladder and finish the season on a high. I encourage players to continue to value every point by fighting each rally 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 are not intimidated by the opponent, the surroundings, or the point of the match.

I look forward to observing the matches at Padua College this weekend where our Senior teams will do battle. A reminder that our Years 7-9 teams are responsible for court duty and this roster will be available on the College website.

AIC Volleyball Results v SEC

AIC AFL
Mr Adam Fry, AFL Co-ordinator

One week to go! Unfortunately, this weekend will see us playing our final round of games. It would be terrific to finish off the season with seven victories across the College. I can honestly say that 2021 AFL season has been the most successful one yet with the majority of teams in contention for a premiership or undefeated season. An aggregate victory is still possible if a few results go our way, so ensure you are putting in your best effort to come away with the W this weekend. For some of our Open boys, it will be the last time they pull on the yellow V, so it would be wonderful to see a large crowd at Coorparoo to cheer these boys on for a famous victory.

Last weekend was another fantastic result with all six teams coming away with resounding victories. This reinforces the improvement and the strength Villanova AFL has continued to show week by week. The Year 7s will be vying for their first premiership when they take on Padua, and three of our four Junior teams will be vying for undefeated seasons. It would again be fantastic to see some support to our Junior boys out at Yeronga AFL on Saturday morning from 8.00am.

Good luck to all teams this weekend and please continue to play the game in the right spirit. Let us bring home seven victories to finish off an outstanding 2021 season. Please take the time this weekend to thank all your coaches for their efforts throughout the season. They have guided and mentored you throughout the season and all thoroughly enjoyed being a part of Villanova AFL.

The mighty 6A team celebrating their victory after the game on the weekend. 

AIC AFL Results v SLC B & Ashgrove

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 co-ordinators, 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 five coaches: three rugby coaches (7D, 7E & 9E) and two football coaches (5ths & 7A). 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
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 three newsletter editions. This schedule is posted on the College’s website under the AIC Rugby and the AIC Football sections.

The first training/trial session will occur the very first week after Round 7 of Cricket, AFL and Volleyball. That is, next week beginning Monday 15 March.

For teams training at Villa Park, please be aware that the buses will leave straight after school outside the front of the school in Sixth Ave.  Players are asked to get changed into their training gear at Villa Park. A teacher will escort groups onto the buses. Students are asked not to wear boots on the bus. Parents are asked to collect players between 5.00pm and 5.20pm from Villa Park – no later please.

There will be no return bus service from Villa Park.

Villanova Rugby & Football Uniforms – 2021
ALL students from Years 5-12 in both rugby and football must purchase the Villanova rugby and football uniform in readiness for the up-coming season. This includes shorts, jersey and socks. The Uniform Shop will have all rugby and football gear available for purchase.

IMPORTANT – all boys who sign up for rugby and football WILL make a team, therefore, parents can purchase these items of clothing.

Villanova Rugby Uniform

• Villanova Rugby Jersey
• Villanova Rugby Shorts
• Villanova Rugby/Football socks
• Mouthguards compulsory
• Head gear optional

Villanova Football Uniform

• Villanova Football Jersey
• Villanova Football Shorts (not the PE shorts/ not the Basketball shorts)
• Villanova Rugby/Football socks
• Shin guards compulsory

Please Note

• Football players must wear the Villanova Football shorts not the Villanova Basketball shorts, which do look similar.
• The Canterbury Rugby and Football socks are the same.
• What to wear at training? – It is acceptable for both the rugby and football players to wear any coloured/club clothes to training. Boys are not encouraged to wear their Villanova playing uniform to training but may do so if they wish. We certainly would not recommend rugby players to wear their PE uniform or any shirt that will get ripped and torn.

AIC Rugby & Football Trial Games – Date Claimers 

• Monday 15 March – Friday 19 March: Rugby and Football training/trials begins at Villa Park for all Year 7-12 teams, Year 5 and 6 teams will trial at Little Langlands/Whinstanes
• Saturday 20 March: Internal AIC Rugby & Football Trials at Villa Park (1^st, 2nds and 10A rugby trial v Iona only: all other teams will trial internally at Villa Park)
• Saturday 27 March: AIC Rugby & Football trial v SLC (full school trial – Year 5-12)
• Saturday 24 April: AIC Rugby & Football trial v SPC (full school trial – Year 5-12)
• Saturday 1 May (Round 1) – Saturday 12 June (Round 7) as per College Calendar

ANZAC and Labour Day – Long Weekends and Term 2 Sport
Please note that there are two long weekends scheduled early in Term 2. We ask parents to ensure their son is available to honour their commitment to the team by attending the matches scheduled before heading off to enjoy a well-deserved break.

It is imperative that players are not missing during these weekends. We ask parents to take this into consideration when planning any trips away.

1^ST IV TENNIS TRAINING SQUAD
Many of our top tennis players will be issued with an invitation to attend a 1^st pre-season tennis training program which commences on Wednesday 24 March. Those who have been invited are asked to complete and hand back their ‘statement of player commitment’ form to the Sports Office by Friday 19 March. Invitations will be sent early next week.

AIC CROSS COUNTRY – YEAR 5-12
All information regarding the AIC Cross Country season is posted in the AIC Cross Country section on the website. This information includes the times and venues for training, coaches contact details and much more. We encourage all boys to attend.

Junior School Cross Country Trial
Next Friday 19 March, the Junior School will have their regular Friday afternoon sport class at Langlands to run over a 2km course. Staff will use this trial as a guide to selecting boys who can run well over this distance for our Cross Country team. It will also serve as a trial for Lytton selection, which is on the 6^th May and we will also use the first three weeks of training before finally selecting Villanova’s representatives. If your son is unable to compete on the day, can you please contact the Sports Office.

AIC CHESS
Mr Nick Verity and Mr Jack Lamb, AIC Chess Co-ordinators

AIC chess trials have been underway for nearly two weeks and it has been great to see a number of enthusiastic students getting involved and playing some matches. The trials will continue into Week 8 with the teams aiming to be announced at the end of that week. While there have been many intense games played already, it is not too late for boys to come and trial.

A complete AIC Chess season schedule is now posted within the AIC Chess section on the website. This page can be accessed via the ‘Locker Room’.

AIC Chess Internal Trials
Boys wishing to be considered for selection in an AIC chess team must play internal trial games to determine their rank. The trials will take place in the form of round-robin tournaments within each age bracket.

Junior Trials (Years 5 and 6)
Trials will be conducted every second break in V13

Middle School Trials – (Years 7, 8 and 9)
Trials will be conducted every second break in T10

Senior (Years 10, 11 and 12)
A second trial date may be arranged for those boys who missed out on the first trials. Otherwise, the first results will be used as a guide for team-lists.

Term 2 – Chess Training Schedule
Boys who are selected in an AIC chess team are required to attend one morning training session in addition to at least one break-time training session per week. Training begins on the 23^rd and 25^th of March.

Please Note: Training will not be held during the Term 1 break from 1 – 19 April.

Junior Training
Thursday mornings from 7:15 am until 8:15 am in OD1
Monday, Wednesday and Friday at second break in ST 15-16

Middle, Senior and Open Training
Tuesday mornings from 7:15 am until 8:15 am in OD1
Monday, Wednesday and Friday at second break in T10

VILLANOVA BASKETBALL
Mr Sean O’Neill, AIC Basketball Co-ordinator

The Villanova Basketball Program is already up and going in preparation for Term 3 AIC. Several programs exist within the College to either introduce and develop skills or push our most high-performing athletes. The Basketball Academy was introduced this year on a Sunday morning to provide students across Years 5-8 the opportunity to work with our experienced AIC coaches to introduce and improve individual skills. This was a tremendous success in Term 1 and registrations for Term 2 will begin in Week 8 of this term. Please look out for an email. The Wildcat’s 1^st V squad has been training hard with our coaches across Term 1 and will continue into Term 2. They are also playing in the GBL U23 competition run by Brisbane Basketball which provides an excellent pre-season platform before AIC. Finally, our two younger high-performance squads, the Cubs and Sabres, will begin an 8-week intensive program in Term 2. These students were selected off their performance in basketball over the last year and will continue to be challenged in preparation for AIC basketball and Queensland Schools competitions.

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 – Isaac Bowen, Brody Clelland, Ethan Haywood, Caleb Johnston, Ben Landers, Oliver Longland, Tyler Schafer, Luis Stagg, Jordan Tunnah, Caden Clelland, Tyler Clelland, Thomas de Brito, Oscar de Tina, Charley Hegarty, Jack Hewitt and Wade Wildin Powell.

COMPOSITE SPORT
When new Composite or Met East trial information is received by the Sports Office, it will be posted here and in the Villanova morning notices.

Mr Craig Stariha, Director of Sport

Congratulations Sebastian Allan
Sebastian Allan, through his involvement with Young Conservatorium, recently participated in an audition process to become a member of the Conservatorium Wind Orchestra later this month.  The Conservatorium Wind Orchestra is one of the preeminent tertiary wind bands in Australia – it is quite a feat for a secondary student to earn a position within this ensemble.  I would like to publicly congratulate and recognise Sebastian’s achievement and on behalf of everyone at Villanova wish him all the best with his upcoming season with the group.

Orava String Quartet
Orava String Quartet will be working with students from our string department across this semester.  During Term 1 and 2, this talented group of young men will be attending rehearsals to work with members of Sinfonia and Camerata String Orchestras.  Students will then share the music they have prepared with a concert event in Hanrahan Theatre in early June.  Stay tuned for more information to come in Term 2!

Year 5 Debut workshop and Concert – Regarding Postponement
As per correspondence last week, we had to postpone our Year 5 debut workshop and concert.  Whilst it is unfortunate, as a group we felt that a positive experience for our students was important.  As such, we will be negotiating with Junior School for a suitable date in Term 2.  Once confirmed, we will communicate the new date to all our Year 5 families.  We thank you for your patience.

Debut Concerts coming…
Debut Concerts will be convened in Hanrahan Theatre this coming week commencing on Tuesday 16 March.  Our proposed program for each evening is as follows:

Please note that while the order of performance may be altered between now and the event, the allocated ensembles will be performing on the evening specified in the schedule above.

We are preparing to stream these events to our families and community.  Once the technology has been primed, we will share this information with you all.  We are really looking forward to sharing live music again at Villanova College!

Uniform requirements for Concerts: 16-18 March
The following table outlines uniform requirements for our ensembles:

Any Year 5 musicians who are performing in the concerts from the 16 – 18 March are required to wear:

• grey shorts;
• formal white shirt (available from uniform shop);
• long school socks;
• school tie;
• black leather belt; and,
• polished black school shoes

All uniform items can be sourced through the Uniform shop or external clothing retailers. For further information regarding uniforms for ensembles at Villanova College, please contact the Music Office on 3394 5691 or music@vnc.qld.edu.au

Changes to Enrolments
Changes to enrolments for instrumental music must be submitted to the Music Office at the end of Week 8 (Friday 19 March).  Please ensure the appropriate form is used; please contact the Music Office if you require a copy of this document.

Music Support Group – Monday 15 March
Our Villanova College Music Support Group are meeting next Monday 15 March, commencing at 7:30pm in the Chapter Room – located at the front of Hanrahan Theatre immediately inside Sixth Avenue gate.  We look forward to sharing this opportunity with you all – new members are most welcome.  Come and learn a little more about music here at Villanova.

Entertainment Publications Memberships
Entertainment memberships are one of the Music Support Groups main fund-raisers.  Just click on the images below to purchase a membership and obtain ongoing special deals throughout the year.

Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers
Our fantastic Music Support Group have organised an innovative fundraiser for Villanova College.  You may have heard the buzz about our Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers…  the MUST HAVE items for the beach/cricket/park/fishing/BBQ/etc. this Summer! (flyer attached).

• Villanova Branded Camp Chairs – $31
• Wildcat Coolers – $26

All items can be purchased via TryBooking through the following link:  https://www.trybooking.com/BMEML

Purchases can be collected from the Music Office and all profits go to the Music Support Group.

Date Claimers
And now we look ahead to what the term has in store…

Opportunity to Participate
The Music community at Villanova welcomes all students interested in participating in ensemble or instrument/vocal tuition.  If your son would like to take lessons on an instrument this year, please contact the Music Office on 3394 5691 or via email at music@vnc.qld.edu.au for further information.

Thank you all for your ongoing support of Music at Villanova College.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

entbook.com.au/22002q9

PARENT INFORMATION EVENINGS – YEAR  7 AND YEAR 9
The Year 7 Parent Information Evening has been rescheduled to Monday 22 March. Please see times below:

• 7 Black, 7 Blue, 7 Maroon & 7 Red commencing at 5.30pm in the Hanrahan Theatre followed by classroom visit with core teachers.
• 7 Gold, 7 Green, 7 Silver & 7 White commencing at 6.30pm in the Hanrahan Theatre followed by classroom visit with core teachers.

The Year 9 Parent Information Evening will be held on Tuesday 23 March commencing at 6.00pm in the Hanrahan Theatre.

SPORTS CANTEEN CONVENOR POSITION (READVERTISED – 30 HOURS/WEEK)
This position (revised to 30 hours per week) may suit someone in the Villanova community. Click here for the Role Description. Applications close Monday 15 March, 2021. 

PARENTS AND FRIENDS ASSOCIATION – YOUR 2021 EXECUTIVE
On Monday,  the P&F held their Annual General Meeting to elect the Executive team for 2021.

We’d like to thank the new and regular families who attended.

The Executive Team for 2021 consists of:

President: Vass Cayas
Vice President: Peter Roberts and Greg Wellspring
Treasurer: Michael Cherry
Secretary: Jacki Kerr
Parent Rep Co-ordinator: Alison Gamer

We would also like to thank Donna Fingland who stepped down as Vice President this year.

The P&F Executive will now look to plan for a series of community events over this calendar year. Our first event is the Annual Mother’s Night to be held on Friday 7^th May.

Mr Vass Cayas, President

EMERGENCY DRILLS AT THE COLLEGE
The College is committed to ensuring that we have processes in place to be prepared for an emergency situation if and when it eventuates.

The College will undergo both evacuation and lockdown exercises throughout the year. In addition, the College maintains a register of those staff and students who require a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP).  PEEP’s are required for any staff/student who may need assistance during an evacuation.  Please ensure the College is aware if your son requires a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan.  Generally, this will relate to those with a Vision, Hearing or Mobility impairment – either permanent or temporary.

TUCKSHOP ROSTER (MONDAY 15 – FRIDAY 19 MARCH)
All volunteers rostered on this week will be contacted directly by the Tuckshop.

Our sincere apologies to new students affected by the Flexischools issue with student cards. We continue to work with Flexischools while they resolve the problem. In the interim, could all boys new to the College please continue to use cash for Tuckshop purchases until the problem has been rectified. Thank you.

LIBRARY ROSTER (MONDAY 15 – FRIDAY 19 MARCH)
All volunteers rostered on this week will be contacted directly by the Library.

THE VILLA SPORTS CLUB  LUNCH 2021
Thank you to all who bought tickets to support the Sports Club and sporting programs at Villanova. The event sold out in 30 minutes. Apologies to those who missed out – unfortunately COVID restrictions at the venue meant the Sports Club was not able to offer the same number of seats as previous years.

ST PATRICK’S DAY MASS
A special Mass for St Patrick’s Day will be celebrated in the Cathedral of St Stephen, Elizabeth Street at 10.00am on 17 March 2021. His Grace, Archbishop Mark Coleridge will be the principal celebrant with Fr Gerard McMorrow concelebrating. All are welcome to attend but, due to COVID restrictions, it is essential you register your attendance. Numbers are limited.

To register on-line, go to the Cathedral website:      www.cathedralofststephen.org.au

The 2021 Villanova College Kokoda Challenge Program
5^th June 2021 – D’Aguilar National Park

Teams of four Senior School students with a mentor undertake a 48 km walk across rugged D’Aguilar National Park terrain within a 20-hour time limit (average time taken is 12 hours). The event is a significant challenge for school-aged boys, and also for the parents, staff and old boys who walk with them, support them on the day or in training and preparing for the event.

We have found over the last 11 years that a wonderful community spirit has been forged between those parents, boys and staff who bind together to face the challenge. In turn, this strong sense of being united in heart and mind has been a concrete example of everything we seek to be at Villa. Another benefit for the community has been our deeper understanding of challenges faced by the Australian ‘diggers’ at Kokoda.

Furthermore, the Kokoda Challenge teams have raised a substantial amount for the Kokoda Foundation, a charitable organisation which allows troubled teenagers the chance to work with high quality mentors and walk the Kokoda Track. The aims of the event from the organiser’s perspective are:

• To teach young people that their achievements in life are directly related to the effort they contribute, whether that be at school, work, professionally or in personal relationships
• To teach young people that the consequences of choices they make will have a profound effect on their happiness, future, lifestyle and what they achieve.

The aim is to instil the virtues of Mateship, Courage, Endurance, and Sacrifice.  These ideals fit in strongly with our aims at Villa regarding developing boys into fine, young men.

Please contact Brian Pascoe (bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au) for further information about being involved in this year’s challenge.

Kokoda Challenge Youth Programs (KCYP) 2021
One of the programs offered at Villanova College is the Kokoda Challenge Youth Programs (KCYP). The KCYP is a 14-month journey for 15-17 year olds who are seeking adventure, friendship and a life altering experience.

Young people aged between 15-17 years of age who live in the Gold Coast and Brisbane regions should apply. The KCYP takes teens from all walks of life who are wanting to be the best version of themselves.

The Program involves:

• Weekly trainings for phase 1 (20 weeks)
• 96km Kokoda Challenge
• 10-day Afghan style Camel Trek in the Flinders Ranges
• Community service, where participants volunteer one day a month giving back to other not-for-profit community groups.

The KCYP is financed through the donations received in the Kokoda Challenge Events. This means for those selected in the KCYP, most expenses are paid.

To apply or seek further information visit the website below and complete the application before March 19, 2021.

https://www.kokodachallenge.com/kokoda-youth-programs/kcyp