Villa View: Issue 33

Dear Members of the Villanova College Family,
On Tuesday evening 31 October, Villanova College will be holding a special event to recognise the academic achievements of students across the College. This ‘Celebration of Excellence’ will be held at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and will commence at 6.30pm. The capacity of the venue is approximately 1500 seats which means we are unable to house the whole College community. Students who will receive academic prizes and their families will have reserved seating. I have also requested the senior students of the College attend. Joining the staff of the College will be invited guests including Fr Dave Austin OSA, Prior Provincial.

It would be appreciated if all award winners’ families who have been invited could RSVP immediately via the rsvpify link. Once the allocated seating for this group has been completed, any remaining theatre seats will be offered to Villanova parents and students.  With the limited seating, it will be important to request a seat as soon as possible. Expressions of interest to attend this evening can be made by emailing the Curriculum Secretary, Casey Ouston at couston@vnc.qld.edu.au.

I am looking forward to celebrating the outstanding academic achievements of our students and showcasing the wonderful talents of our student body.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP

Last Thursday I travelled to Lake Maroon, outside Boonah to find our Year 11 students and staff. I was greeted with rain, mud and smiling faces as the groups were gathering for a busy day following a wet and cold night. Despite the rain, cold, mud and camp food, the spirits of the students were high. During my stay, I heard many stories from the adults accompanying the students of unselfish acts to support each other and witnessed the encouragement and camaraderie between the students.

My thanks to Mr Peter Meecham, Year 11 Pastoral Area Leader and staff who accompanied the students – it was a challenging three days and all passed with flying colours.

AIC TRACK AND FIELD

Next week our track and field athletes will be competing in the 2017 AIC Track and Field Carnival. For our athletes this event brings to a conclusion many weeks of training. The measure for success will be their performance on the day. The students have worked hard over the past weeks and have been well prepared. We will have our students as supporters in the grandstand to cheer on our athletes. We wish all our competitors the very best for the event.

PRAYERS PLEASE

We keep in our prayers Messrs. Nick and Peter Simpson following the death of their mother, Patricia last Saturday.

May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in peace, Amen

We continue to keep Mr Charlie Fisher and his family in our prayers.

You have made us for Yourself O Lord

And our hearts are restless until they rest in you.

God bless

Mr Mark Stower, Principal

Our pupil free day this week proved invaluable for all College staff.  To begin the day, we all met with our architect, Mr Peter Dawson, who is instrumental in the Villanova Master Plan, designing the physical spaces for the next generation of Villanovans.

For those of us who have been here over a decade, the next 10 years of learning and community spaces are inspiring.  The National Curriculum (the “what” of teaching), pedagogy (the “how” of learning) requires environments that engage our boys and inspire them to achieve their potential.

Monday was a significant time to look at our 2017 goals and reflect upon our progress to date.  Our staff know first-hand what changes should be put in place to ensure our young men are given the ultimate platform for pastoral, academic and co-curricular development.  It is a privilege to work with individuals who find inspiration in Professional Development courses and reading and are willing to bring fresh ideas and suggestions into their practice.

The afternoon gave scope for Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation participants (must be refreshed every 12 months) while other staff had opportunities for entering Queensland College of Teaching credentials, REAP assignments (Catholic Education study) and planning.  This day certainly gave our educators the chance to ensure they are connected with the College’s future and priority was given to crucial professional elements.

Our Junior School Disco last Friday night was sensational.  I know that we thoroughly enjoyed the social focus each day last week delivering our best tips on manners, social etiquette and dance moves – but when we saw our boys step up in their best shirts and smiles there was such pride bursting out of every staff member’s heart.  Sincere thanks to Maria Mascadri who managed the disco as a wedding planner would!  We are blessed for her every thought and consideration on how 300 young people might like to share two hours on a Friday night.  The DJ, Villanova Old Boy Nick Madden gave us all the music that encouraged every student and teacher to show their best moves.  Our parent helpers brought courtesy and fun to our evening, and I am very sure that it set the highest impression on visiting families who really trusted our team to care for their daughters.  I am very grateful for the staff who kept the boys’ spirits high and made every effort to welcome our guests on the night.  We have had nothing but the highest compliments on the smiles and sincere efforts to dress smartly for an occasion that fostered friendships and a chance to have some good old-fashioned fun.

Next Tuesday and Wednesday sees our AIC track and field athletes represent the College after 10 weeks of specific training.  It is a tough ask being an athlete.  There  is the physical element where the body needs fitness and the right genes for power/strength, agility and speed and the mental aspect where you wish everyone the best yet you must push your own boundaries to ensure no second is given away or jump is misjudged.  The most important ingredient is the spiritual determination that is within the greatest of athletes no matter the age or experience.  It is a desire to believe in yourself.  It is the willingness to attend training, accept the advice of coaches and thank the managers who provide information that you know you should have read on the College Website.  The spirit means you take the risk in front of a cheering audience.  You get the chance to do your best – a personal best – and that is all anyone should be aiming for.  The podium is a bonus.  I wish every athlete and staff member the best of luck in representing Villanova.  May your green and gold be what your competitors remember as you run, jump, throw and smile your way into success.

Our College Villa Visions Art Evening will be held on Friday 27 October.  It is a time to show case the excellence in Visual Art and is always an evening for the WOW factor.  I can sketch – but that is about the limit for my artistic ability.  I am in awe of the students who can use their spatial awareness, fine motor control and aptitude for design to create pieces of work that make a statement to the world.

Thank you to Ms Laurine Field who is busily coordinating Junior School staff and students to display the best of our work in 2017.  With incredible prizes to be won, I cannot wait to see who will take out the prestigious awards in Year 5 and 6.  Best wishes for all entries gentlemen!

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Following some inspiring conversations about SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) with a few staff members over the past couple of weeks, I thought it might be timely to reconnect with parents about our commitment to SEL.

What is Social and Emotional Learning? SEL at Villanova is a whole college approach to a developmental process. Through this process, individuals, via programmed activities, gain critical skills for life effectiveness. These skills involve gaining awareness and understanding of their emotional and social functioning within the context of community-based relationships.

The College has created its own framework that captures the SEL skills and competencies. The five broad areas, now commonly recognised, are as follows:

1) Self Awareness 

2) Self Management

3) Social Awareness

4) Relationship Management 

5) Responsible Decision Making

Villanova’s framework then breaks these down into specific skills and competencies. There are 37 in total and they are integral to our evolving programs.

Self Awareness

1.1 Recognise and label emotions

1.2 Identify what triggers own emotions and feelings

1.3 Understand how emotions can affect self and others

1.4 Accurately recognise own strengths and limitations

1.5 Develop self-efficacy and self-esteem

1.6 Understand own values and how they are formed

1.7 Develop spiritual awareness and connection

Self Management 

2.1 Goal setting skills; short, medium and long term

2.2 Resilience; overcoming adversity and managing stress and anxiety

2.3 Emotional regulation and impulse control

2.4 Attention control and listening skills

2.5 Ability to seek help when required and use feedback constructively

2.6 Exhibit positive motivation, hope and optimism

2.7 identifying and integrating our faith in working and social relationships

Social Awareness

3.1 Identify social cues, both verbal and physical

3.2 Predicting and considering others feelings and reactions

3.3 Show respect and empathy for others

3.4 Understand others’ points of view and perspectives

3.5 Develop an awareness of how an online presence can be a positive influence within a community and globally

3.6 Appreciate diversity (including gender, ethnicity, religious beliefs)

3.7 Development of social justice

Relationship Management 

4.1 Develop processes and strategies for making decisions

4.2 Establish and maintain friendships with peers

4.3 Participate appropriately socially in group situations

4.4 Intimacy skills (becoming emotionally close to another individual)

4.5 Practice tolerance and acceptance of individual differences

4.6 Use conflict resolution skills and strategies (including negotiation, compromise, de-escalating skills)

4.7 Develop and use appropriate communication skills (including awareness of self and others’ verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, assertion)

4.8 Resist inappropriate social pressures

4.9 Understand and exhibit leadership qualities and skills

Responsible Decision Making 

5.1 Develop processes and strategies for making decisions

5.2 Implement problem solving skills when making decisions

5.3 Make decisions based on moral, personal and ethical views

5.4 Negotiation skills

5.5 Reflect on how current choices can affect future

5.6 Become self-reflective and self-evaluative

5.7 Interactions and decisions made online have implications and consequences (positive and negative)

These skills and competencies are, in many ways, a blueprint of what we want for our young men as they graduate from Villanova. Increasingly, they are also the skill set that employers are seeking in 21st century workplaces. The ongoing challenge we face is how to form a baseline, track, and enhance a students’ progress in their development of these competencies. The results we are already seeing in our students is the reward that this work brings.

For parents, at the very least, it can be a checklist of skills and competencies that can be observed, fostered, and encouraged on the home-front.

The College remains committed to furthering its collective knowledge of SEL and its implementation across the Senior, Middle and Junior Schools.

Chasing some new bedtime reading? Below are a few SEL blogs and articles I have been engaging with over the past month.   Enjoy!

Mr Greg O’Neill, Head of Middle School

SEL, Whole Child Education and Student Readiness: How do They Connect? (Pittman, 2017)

Why is 21st Century Learning Both Social & Emotional? (Debroy, 2017)

Emotional Intelligence: Moving Beyond Our Primal Instincts (Grandizio, 2017)

What Teachers Can Do Now to Boost Social and Emotional Learning in the Classroom (Sterling, 2017)

Positive Words Go a Long Way (Nucaro, 2017)

Year 11 Leadership Camp and Conference
Following on from my editorial last week on the Senior School camp program, I am happy to report that the Year 11 Leadership Camp pushed all the right buttons in challenging students to relinquish the safety of their comfortable lives to embark on a three-day expedition in the surrounds of Lake Maroon.

Students were well and truly taken out of their comfort zone both physically and mentally throughout the course of the program. Whilst some student’s immediate reflection of the experience might be coloured by the challenging weather, I hope that the value of cooking meals and conquering the various ropes courses will have added to their character formation.

The overwhelming positivity of the reports by the camp instructors is a wonderful affirmation of this group. I would like to thank Year 11 Pastoral Area Leader Mr Peter Meecham for his meticulous organisation and extend my deepest thanks to the generosity of the staff who supported this program by their attendance on camp.

Today, the Year 11 cohort will continue their leadership journey by engaging in a program which builds upon the momentum established on camp. I thank Vice Principal – Ministry, Mission and Evangelisation, Mr John Holroyd and Mr Meecham for their work in preparing this day’s program and look forward to sharing with you some of the key messages explored by the keynote speakers and within the activities next week.

Student Formation and Personal Development

During Monday’s pupil free day, the College’s Pastoral Care Team met to explore our current student formation and personal development programs. We interrogated what were the key priorities and focus areas within our various programs to meet the needs of adolescent teenage boys/young men within our contemporary world, one defined by the inescapable realities of technology. One of our discussion points was about the vital importance of a collaborative relationship between our parent community and the College on matters of student well-being, health and safety.

As a key strategic step moving forward, the Pastoral Care Team would like to engage in further opportunities to connect with parents pertaining to issues such as – but not limited to – responsible social media use, the teenage party scene and building resilience to proactively combat student anxiety. We would certainly welcome the feedback and suggestions of parents and community members about issues and topics relevant to our student body and their ongoing positive formation. Please contact either a Head of School or Pastoral Area Leader.

“The self is not something ready-made, but something in continuous formation through choice of action.”– John Dewey

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Fair Go
“Lovely rain; bad timing” was the comment that best summed up the cancellation of the Fair Go Football Carnival last Sunday. The highlight of the day is always for me being able to share our superb facilities with young people who do not normally have such access. Guests from Woodridge State High and Yourtown mix with boarders from BGS and IGS; indigenous students from John Paul, Brigidine and Lourdes Hill mix with Villanova, St Laurence’s and Loreto students. I am sure Mary MacKillop would approve.

The other outstanding feature of Fair Go is the way that so many staff, parents and young old boys unite their efforts to create the occasion. Moreover, our groundsman Clyde Wooderson had prepared the grounds in tip-top condition. Unfortunately, it will not be possible to re-schedule this event.

YAYM Film Competition

Middle School Ministry boys are running a film competition under the theme of “Cor Unum.” Films are to be 60 to 90 seconds long and, if possible, should feature the maker of the film and a cameo appearance from a Tolle Lege (College prayer book). The competition is open to Junior and Middle School students and closes on Friday of Week 5. The winning film will be shown at a College Assembly and a $50 voucher awarded to the winning filmmaker.

Middle School Dance and AFAS

The AFAS students gave an insightful and emotional report on their recent 2017 Exchange at the College Assembly last week. Whilst they explained how well they used the money given by the community, for example to add milk formula to a feeding program set up by AFAS in 2015, they also shared the impact of experiencing poverty so personally and directly. It obviously hit our boys hard that they were welcomed into homes as small as my office where I am currently typing.

It was entirely appropriate therefore that any profit from the Middle School Dance would go directly to students in the Philippines who love to dance and sing – but who have great difficulty in financing the journey through high school. It was great to see three of the AFAS students at the dance, sharing a little about what AFAS is and achieves. Significantly, our own Assistant Chaplain, Fr Saldie, delayed joining the priesthood for many years so that he could fund his younger siblings through high school.

Mr John Holroyd, Vice Principal – Ministry, Mission and Evangelisation

AFAS IMMERSION 2017

For myself, and I’m sure I am safe in saying all the other boys, the positive and loving nature of the Filipino people will be a significant memory of the 2017 AFAS Exchange. I am certain that every individual we interacted with while travelling was engaging and approachable. From my experience, it was a shock because visiting a Third World country I was expecting a blunt and stern attitude. However, what we experienced over there was the complete opposite. The faces of children, wide-grinned and happy with loving and caring parents and adults in their communities who treated us like family. Surrounded by such a harsh environment, these people have developed a high level of faith and hope.  As a result, they have an ever-happy bubbly nature with nurturing values. The attitude of these people is what affected me most while on the Exchange, seeing these people in such hard times yet still finding enjoyment and happiness. It really hit me emotionally and I cannot think of any group of people more deserving then the ones we visited and supported.

When we visited the Divino Amore’s scholar Roquel, we arrived at their house to find that the full lower level of their house had been flooded due to the rain. Hearing the stories of the hardships these people went through every time it rained highlighted to me that these people need not only our money, but also our physical support and presence, which we the group of AFAS were happy to provide.

The Filipino people were so comfortable around us and were the first to approach us, engaging in friendly physical contact. It made me feel special to be on this trip helping to support these lovely, deserving people. We were strangers having not known these people for more than ten minutes and these beautiful people were already embracing us. From my experience when I was holding a toddler, the young boy hugged me back with a tight grip. This small gesture by the young boy again touched my heart as I realised I was changing this boy’s life by just giving him a little attention and love, and this was his way of thanking me through the physical contact of a hug.

This trip gave me a multitude of life experiences where I reflected upon my personal life. These lovely, kind people have shown me that no matter how tough times are or how mad you may be, it is not worth spending energy and time being angry or feeling negative towards any person. I learnt the true value of happiness and enjoyment and what it means to be a real human being. For what I have learnt from the Filipino people on this AFAS trip, I am forever grateful, as I am certain they have changed my life forever. Thank you so much to the Villanova staff and parents who organised this trip, as I want to say every moment, interaction and relationship made was life changing.

Connor Wadsworth, Year 12 student

Strings and Choir at the Cathedral
Our annual ‘Strings and Choir’ at St Stephen’s Cathedral event is almost upon us and our ensembles have been diligently preparing for this performance opportunity.

The concert is a pleasant afternoon at St Stephen’s and I highly recommend you come along.  We sojourn to the undercover area beside the Francis Rush Centre for an afternoon tea.  A reminder to families of students participating to check the information sent home for details regarding our share-a-plate guidelines.

Year 6 – 12 students are required from 1:30pm, Year 5 students are to arrive at 1:45pm.  The concert commences at 2:30pm.

I hope to see many of our music supporters there.

Live and Wired @ Loreto

Our Irish Ensemble and Big Band shared their music with the broader Loreto community last Sunday afternoon.  Due to the inclement weather, the ‘Live and Wired’ Festival was moved indoors to the Mary Ward Centre.  Despite the move, there was still strong attendance and all were treated to music from Loreto, All Hallows’, Villanova and some past student ensembles.

Many thanks to Mr Langford for our standing invitation to this event and the great Loreto Music Department for their assistance on the afternoon.

Prestige Music Festival

We have now had two ensembles perform at the Prestige Music Festival.  Our Wind Band performed on Monday evening in the Iona Performing Arts Theatre and acquitted themselves well on a new stage.  The boys received a Silver Award for their performance.  Our String Sinfonia performed on Wednesday evening, also receiving a Silver Award for their efforts.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank the students and parents for supporting this venture.  It is a great opportunity for our musicians to gain awareness of what other schools are doing in music and see some fine examples of musicianship occurring around south east Queensland.

I am looking forward to the Symphonic Band and String Consort performing over the next two evenings, as well as our Jazz Ensemble and Big Band next week.  Good luck to all performers.

Information regarding the performance times and requirements for each ensemble have been sent to students and parents via email.  If you have not received this, please ensure you contact the Music Office urgently – music@vnc.qld.edu.au or 3394 5691.

Please note, there is an admission cost for audience members (performers are free) – Adult tickets are $10; Concession – $5; Family multi-pass (more than one section/day, at different venues) – $35.  There is no EFTPOS at the door – please bring cash.

Big Band to play for River City Clippers

Come along for an afternoon of entertainment and variety.  Join our Big Band as they perform as part of the River City Clippers fundraiser concert on Sunday 22 October.  The concert begins at 3pm in the Edmund Rice Performing Arts Complex (above the Mater Hospital Carpark).

Bands Finale Concert

All students in Year 5 and Year 6 Band, Wind Band, Symphonic Band, Irish Ensembles 1 and 2, Jazz Ensemble and Big Band, will be performing in our Bands Finale Concert on Thursday 26 October (as per calendar and date claimers).  The Junior School concert will commence at 6pm; Middle School and Senior School concerts will commence at 7pm.  Further information has been sent home – please contact the Music Office if you did not receive it on 3394 5691 – music@vnc.qld.edu.au.

Audition Schedule

Due to our Prestige performances and interviews being conducted over the past week, our auditions have been postponed to Week 4.  A schedule will be sent electronically by the end of this week.  My apologies for the delay.

Celebration of Excellence

Villanova College will be hosting their inaugural Celebration of Excellence evening in the Concert Hall at QPAC on Tuesday 31 October.  Our Symphonic Band, String Sinfonia, Irish Ensemble 1, and Senior Choir will be performing as part of the event and will be required at QPAC on the Tuesday morning from 7:45am – 10:00am.  Information regarding the event and rehearsal arrangements will be forwarded home – please check your email inbox.

Music Support Group

Our Music Support Group will be holding their Annual General Meeting during Term 4.  Two fantastic members of our executive, Stephanie Carlson and Sharon Williams, will be graduating from the Music Support Group as their sons graduate the College at the end of the year.  We will most definitely miss them as valued members of our team.  With that in mind, the group is looking for goal-orientated individuals who are connected and active in both the Villanova and wider community, have industry, management or relevant experience and are prepared to make a significant positive difference to what is a busy and exciting music community.

If you would like to discuss the operations of our Music Support Group and your possible involvement, I would welcome the opportunity to speak in person or approach our group through the Music Office.

Date Claimers

We now look ahead to the end of the year with our currently scheduled events.  Please ensure these are marked in your diaries.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

Villanova College will conduct volleyball and cricket trials on the week beginning Monday, October 30.  All students have been given a sign-on form, which is due tomorrow, 20 October.  An invitation is extended to all members of our community who wish to assist the sports program by taking on a coaching, managing and/or officiating role for the various sports we have on offer in 2018. All interested are asked to complete the nomination form found on the College website. In particular, we are keen for those who wish to coach cricket or volleyball in 2018 to contact us, as these trials will commence soon.

Although Villanova’s 2017 AIC Track and Field Team is still in draft form, all involved are looking forward to competing at the annual AIC Track and Field Championships which will be held on Tuesday 24 October and Wednesday 25 October at the Queensland Sport and Athletic Centre (SAF) – Outside Track.

The team’s preparation has been encouraging and we are looking forward to a successful carnival. Unfortunately, not everyone who has trained will get the chance to compete on Tuesday or Wednesday. However, we believe that all those who have trained are important members of the 2017 AIC Track and Field Team, therefore all squad members who have trained throughout the season are invited to attend the carnival with the competing team as a spectator/reserve on Wednesday 25 October.

A draft team has already been announced and a copy is published on the website.  Although we believe most of the positions are correct and will not change, some coaches are yet to finalise selections, as they still require boys to compete for positions at this week’s meet to be held at SAF. Either way the individual coaches of each event will notify the students regarding changes to the team list. A final team list will be posted on the web early on Monday morning, 23 October.

AIC Track and Field Championship

Day 1:                      Tuesday 24 October 2.00pm – 5.00pm, Outside Track – SAF Stadium, Kessels Road, Nathan

Transport:             Bus departs Villanova College from Sixth Avenue at 12:30pm and will return to the College by 5.30pm.

Day 2:                      Wednesday 25 October 8.30am – 2.00pm, Outside Track – SAF Stadium, Kessels Road, Nathan

Team Photo:       All athletes are to assemble/meet in the quadrangle at 6:50am for a team photo

Transport:             Bus departs Villanova College from Sixth Avenue at 7.20am and will return to the College by 2.45pm.

All members of the team must arrive at the College by 6:50am on Wednesday ready for a 7.20am departure on the team bus. All athletes are to meet on the quadrangle for a team photo before boarding the bus. We ask that all team members travel together as a team on the buses provided. Boys are to ensure they have eaten beforehand and have all the necessary food, drink and equipment for the day.  The first event on the program begins at 8.45am (Open 3000m).

Uniform

All athletes are required to wear the full Villanova College Athletic Uniform. Boys who are not competing may wear their team shirt and green PE shorts. Competing athletes must wear the following.

• Villanova athletics singlet
• Villanova white athletic shorts
• Villanova team shirt (COMPULSORY)
• Villanova sports cap (green)

The boys will need to bring the following:

• Hat/sunscreen/wet weather gear (if required)
• Water bottle/s
• Food (fruit, sandwiches)
• Lunch will be provided on Wednesday 25 October – NO Canteen
• Please avoid food such as chips and milk drinks
• Other sportswear i.e. spikes

After the official AIC presentations, the Villanova College team will stay behind at SAF for a short period for our own team presentations. The team bus will return to the College at the completion of these presentations by approximately 2.45pm.

Congratulations to Connor Wadsworth who has been selected as Team Captain for 2017. Connor has led by example with his commitment to Villanova’s athletics program over many years.

Thank you for supporting your son during the track and field season this year.  I am sure all boys will give their best on Tuesday and Wednesday next week and we look forward to an enjoyable and successful couple of days.

AIC Track and Field – Final Meet at UQ

The fourth and final Invitational Carnival for the season will be held tomorrow afternoon/night at SAF, Nathan. All students are to wear the full Villanova track and field uniform at these Invitational Carnivals including the Villanova white track and field shorts, Villanova track and field singlet and the Villanova team shirt. Athletes wearing skins are only permitted to wear white, green, black or skin coloured apparel. Ben Mowen and Andrew Slack members who have been given permission may wear their green PE shorts and Villanova team shirt.

Buses for Years 5 and 6 will depart at 2.00pm and return to the College at approximately 5.50pm. Years 7 – 12 will depart at 3.15pm and return to the College at 8.20/30pm.

Students may leave with their parents on the night but I ask all parents collecting their son/s from the front of the College on Friday night to be on time.

Timekeepers /Field event officials needed! – We are in need of timekeepers/field officials to assist at the AIC Carnival tomorrow night. If you are able to assist, please contact the Sports Office on 3394 5621. Please help if you can.

Please note that the schedule for this week has changed.

SCHEDULE OF TRACK AND FIELD EVENTS FRIDAY, 20 OCTOBER

Villanova Swimming – Mrs Juanita Jacobs – AIC Swimming Co-ordinator

The Villanova swim season has now well and truly begun. If your son is interested in joining the squad, there is still time. Please check the Locker Room section of the website for documents and further details on training times.

Could I please remind all students in Years 5 – 11 that they must have their name ticked off by the Villanova staff member who is present at training. Students must ensure they are out of the pool by 8am and changing as quickly as possible so they are not late to class.  For those students who would like to purchase breakfast from the Tuckshop, you may place a pre-order to ensure you have breakfast waiting for you upon arrival at the College.

Date Claimer:   On Monday 15 January 2018, the Villanova Swim Squad will be having a technical training session at Langlands Pool.  The session will include squad training, land based core work and team building exercises.  More details will be follow as planning for this event is finalised.  

Volleyball Report – Ms Barbara Dewis, AIC Volleyball Coordinator

Our players’ road tested the facilities for the upcoming Commonwealth Games at Coomera and Carrara last weekend.  An outstanding group of boys represented Villanova from Year 7 and Year 8.  The 18 players, who wore the Villanova shirt with pride, rose above expectation in each of their games.

The Year 7 team came away from the tournament with a silver medallion after progressing into the top four. The boys can stand proudly as well as pass on to others what they have learnt from the games played.  The team from Year 8 can also be proud of their efforts after progressing to the top eight in their division then on to the top four. With the number of teams in the Year 8 division, this team remained composed throughout games and finished the tournament in fourth.

Participating in the Junior Schools Cup will now give these players an insight in to how the game of volleyball can be mentally tough and not just physically tough.  Both coaches, Kristina Whitehead and Melissa Wilson did an excellent job in assisting the boys to the level that was required for this tournament. Thanks to Kristina, Melissa and Kath Underhill for transporting the teams to the venues on Friday. I would also like to thank the parents for the great parental support given to both teams over the three days of competition.

This week Villanova will host a round of the Provence Cup in Goold Hall. Four games will be played over two courts: Villanova vs GT and Churchie vs SLC. The first game (Year 10) begins at 6pm followed by the Year 11 game at 7pm.

Save the dates

• 4 November Internal trials Goold Hall
• 11 November trial game against SLC

All volleyball trials begin Week 5, Monday 30 October.  Please check the website for more information leading into Week 5.

AIC Golf Championships

The annual AIC Golf Championships will be held at the Indooroopilly Golf Club on Monday 23 October. Mr Stariha has met with the team this week to discuss all details. Mr McLauchlan will drive the bus, which will leave at 5.40am.  Boys are to meet in front of Goold Hall. 

2018 Coaches/Managers and Officials Needed – OUR BOYS NEED YOUR HELP!

The Villanova Sports Department is currently seeking coaches, managers and officials for the AIC sports program in 2018.  In particular, we require the assistance of staff, parents, old boys and friends of the College to take on the many duties needed to ensure that every student has the opportunity to participate and enjoy all the benefits that playing sport  provides as well as ensuring the ongoing growth and development of our sports programs.

Villanova’s success in sport is dependent upon many factors, one being the generosity of members within our community to give of their time and efforts in order to serve our students by taking on specific roles. These roles include coach, manager, referee, umpire, scorer etc. If you are able to help out in any way, could you please complete the ‘2018 Coach, Manager and Officiating – Nomination Form’ available on the College website and from the Sports Office and return it to the Sports Office as soon as possible.

All forms received will be compiled into a database and before each season commences a member of the Sports Office will contact those who have expressed an interest to assist. A final confirmation of commitment will be requested and further details will be given.

I thank all those who were able to assist throughout 2017 and I invite those who would like to assist in 2018 to become involved for the benefit of our students and the College. I am sure you will find it a rewarding venture.

2018 Villanova Cricket, Swimming, AFL and Volleyball Sign On and Trials

All students from Year 5 – 11 who are interested in representing Villanova in cricket, swimming, AFL and volleyball in 2018 must complete an ‘AIC Sport Sign-On Form’. These forms are available to all students from Year 5 – 11 through their Pastoral classes and are posted on the sport’s web page.

Please note:

• All students from Year 5 – 12 will play in the AIC Sport Competition
• All cricket, AFL and volleyball teams will be selected in year levels in 2018 not in age groups. Therefore, boys in Year 8 will play in the 8 A – D teams (not the 13 A – D teams)
• Students must attend all trials as listed below
• Cricket is open to all students from Year 5 – 12
• AFL is open to students in Year 5 and 6 (2018) only
• Volleyball is open to students in Year 7 – 12 (2018) only

Date Claimers:  Please refer to the trial schedule below. Please note the year levels below will be your son’s year level in 2018.

Date Claimers – Further Trial Dates

• Trials will commence either before or after school on the week commencing Monday 30 October
• Internal cricket games/trials will be held on Sunday 5 November for all teams from Year 7 -12 (2018)
• Internal volleyball trials will be held on Saturday 4 November for all teams from Year 7 – 12 (2018)
• Volleyball trial matches against Iona on 11 November
• Volleyball trial matches against SLC on 18 November
• All specific times and venues to be advised

LL = Little Langlands (Langlands Park) Main Ave, Coorparoo (next to Easts Leagues Club).

Goold Hall = Located on Villanova’s College Campus, access via Eighth Ave, Coorparoo.

All students wishing to trial for an AIC cricket or AIC volleyball team must complete a ‘SIGN ON SHEET’ and return it to the College’s Sports Office by Friday 20 October 2017.

Email: sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au  Fax: 3394 5637

2018 Villanova Coaches, Managers and Officials Needed! 

The Sports Office is currently looking at staffing for the 2018 sports season. If you are able to assist in any of these roles, we ask that you complete a ‘2018 Coaches, Managers and Officials Nomination Form’ which is found on the web in the sports section. Please return the completed form to the Sports Office. Villanova relies on the assistance of the parents, old boys and friends to help fulfil these roles. We encourage you to help if you can.

Volleyball and Cricket Coaches Needed

We are in urgent need of volleyball and cricket coaches in order to assist with upcoming trials.  If you are keen to take on a coaching role, please complete the nomination form as above and return to the Sports Office.

Volleyball Schools Cup – Melbourne

This tour will be conducted over the Christmas vacation period. All information will be distributed to those who are selected including, payment, medical, permission and information forms by the end of this week.

Villanova Swimming Training

For those wishing to be involved please complete a rego/payment form available from the Sports Office or on the College web site. Our success next year is dependent upon the hard work put in this year. If you are looking for an activity to get your son busy and active – sign him up for swimming, it is great for fitness!

Mr Craig Stariha, Director Sport

VILLA VISIONS ANNUAL ART EXHIBITION

The Villanova College annual art exhibition, Villa Visions will be held on Friday 27 October from 6.30 pm until 8 pm and will once again showcase the exciting work of our Art students.

We invite all students, parents, teachers and members of the school community to attend this event, catered for by Hospitality students with fabulous entertainment provided by the Music Department.

Please refer to the exciting promotional poster below created by Year 8 student Travis Graham for further details.

The exhibition can also be viewed on Saturday 28 October from 9am until 11 am.

Mrs Laurine Field, Acting Visual Arts Curriculum Area Leader

2018 AFAS ELDERS EXCHANGE – KINATARCAN ISLAND 

Planning is well underway for the 2018 AFAS Elders Exchange to Kinatarcan Island with decisions to be made as flight reservations must be made by end of November 2017.

This exchange differs from the AFAS Exchange in that it is open to staff, parents and Villa Old Boys (including 2018 graduates) – no school age students are able to participate. The group travels to Kinatarcan Island and undertakes a building/construction project, which is totally funded by Villa Old Boys. In 2016, the group constructed the drying hut (hothouse) for the use of drying the moringa leaf for all the island community.

The Elders Exchange will take place during the first two weeks of the 2018 December school holidays and will cost $2500.

If you are interested in attending and would like more information or would like to enquire about making a donation towards the project, please email Tony Hindmarsh at – thindmarsh@vnc.qld.edu.au

Mr Tony Hindmarsh

Second Hand Uniform Shop

The Villanova College Second Hand Uniform Shop is urgently in need of items to sell, especially smaller sizes to assist new families joining our community in 2018.

We gladly accept donations or alternatively you can download a reimbursement form from the College website for items you wish to sell.

Items can be dropped off at any Student Service Office, the Uniform Shop or directly to the Second Hand Uniform Shop on Thursday morning between 7.45am – 9.15am.

We look forward to replenishing our second hand stock, while raising money for the Villanova P and F Association.  Your support is greatly appreciated

Mrs Maree Erikson

LIBRARY ROSTER

Monday, 23rd October

Bronagh Earthrowl

Tuesday, 24th October

Cristina Palacios

Wednesday, 25th October

Donna Leahy, Denise Smith

Thursday, 26th October

Kelly Stassi, Sue Mulligan

TUCKSHOP ROSTER

Monday, 23rd October

Narelle Rieck, Julie Stokes, Jenni Boxall, Jane Green, Sally Caltabiano, Megan Price, Maria Woodger, Mary Innes, Cath Griffin

Tuesday, 24th October

Donna Perkins, Melissa Davidson, Lisa Forsyth, Nicole Webb, Leanne McMahon, Sonia Ballen, Susan White, Tricia Allen, Cristina Watson, Donna Fingland

Wednesday, 25th October

Angela Dooley, Tina McCaul, Peta Gomersall, Kathy McCaul, Maria Corones, Lena Bazzo, Lisa Gorry, Denise Smith

Thursday, 26th October

Paula Lisignoli, Maria McGarry, Zsuzsa Henderson, Juanita Ryan, Kath Eberhardt, Pauline White, Bernadette Papagiannis, Kelly Stassi, Jane Lawson, Louisa Coote, Chrissy Bonfiglio, Eleni Stathis

Friday, 27th October

Caroline Agnew, Louise Pertnikovs, Jacki Wilson, Jane Short, Pauline Vasta, Adriana Sofios, Gerry Ternel, Leanne Bryant, Natalie Basili, Maria Nicolaou, Kim Creevey, Naomi Jansen

Already described as a ‘once in a career book’ by booksellers, this debut series has taken the publishing industry by storm. NEVERMOOR is set to be a worldwide phenomenon, and establish Australian author, Jessica Townsend, as an international star. NEVERMOOR: THE TRIALS OF MORRIGAN CROW is her first novel.

Price $10/person

On Monday 23 October 2017 at 6:30pm

LOCATION

Villanova College
Augustine Centre, Hanrahan Theatre, 24 Sixth Avenue, Coorparoo, Brisbane , Queensland 4151

CONTACT DETAILS

Antonietta Neighbour aneighbour@vnc.qld.edu.au

TICKETS:

https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=326620