Embedded Files
We are called to be people of Christ with courageous hearts & minds for all to flourish.
In this week's College Update
Mr Rob Muscat - Principal Leader
Mr Rob Muscat - Principal Leader
Dear St John Paul II community,
As we begin a new school year, I warmly welcome all students and families to our school community. The start of a year is always filled with hope and possibility—a time to reconnect, to set new goals, and to look ahead with confidence and optimism.
This year, we remain deeply committed to creating and strengthening a culture of success, belonging and respect. These are not just words we use; they are values we live each day in our classrooms, playgrounds and partnerships with families.
A culture of success means that every student is encouraged and supported to do their best. Success looks different for each child, and we value growth, effort and perseverance just as much as achievement. Our focus is on high expectations paired with strong support—helping students set achievable goals, embrace challenges, and develop the skills and confidence they need to flourish as learners.
Belonging sits at the heart of a thriving school. We want every student to feel known, valued and safe—to know that they are an important part of our community and that they truly belong here. Strong relationships between students, staff and families are essential, and we will continue to foster an environment where kindness, inclusion and care for one another are clearly evident.
Respect underpins everything we do. Respect for ourselves, for others and for learning creates the conditions in which students can grow academically, socially and emotionally. We expect our students to treat each other with dignity, to listen with open minds, and to take responsibility for their actions. In turn, we are committed to modelling these same values as staff and leaders.
Families play a vital role in shaping this culture, and we value our partnership with you. When school and homework together, students are best placed to succeed. We encourage open communication, shared expectations and ongoing collaboration throughout the year.
In a time of continued growth within our community, I take this opportunity to welcome our new staff members to the College;
Leadership
Ms Luzi – Assistant Principal Teaching & Learning
Mr Scarpin – Head of Stage 5 & TAS
Mr Contemplacion – Leader of Learning Science
Inclusive Education
Ms Bakhshi – Year 7 Inclusive Education Teacher
Ms Bowman – Year 10 Inclusive Education Teacher
Ms Cauchi – Teacher Assistant
Ms Elias – Teacher Assistant
Ms Graf – Teacher Assistant
Ms Mitropoulos – Teacher Assistant
Ms Thorne – Teacher Assistant
Ms Turner – Teacher Assistant
Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA)
Mr Cousins
Ms Luna
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)
Mr Morales
Human Society and its Environment (HSIE)
Mr Kang
Ms Pinaroc
Ms Herczeg
Ms Manampan
Mr Santoso
Mr Declan
Technological and Applied Studies (TAS)
Mr Nourages
Mr McMasters – TAS Assistant/Workshop
Ms Robinson – TAS Assistant/Hospitality
Religious Education (RE)
Ms Matti – Assistant Religious Education Coordinator
Ms Richards
English / Languages Other Than English (LOTE)
Ms Darwick – English
Ms Ravenella – Italian/English
As we embark on this new year together, I invite all members of our community to contribute positively—to support one another, to celebrate progress, and to uphold the pillars that make our school a place where all can learn and flourish. I look forward to the many opportunities ahead and to sharing a year of growth, achievement and connection with you all.
I wish everyone a positive and successful start to the school year.
God Bless,
Mr R. Muscat
Ms Michalea Evans - Head of Catholic Identity and Mission
Ms Michalea Evans - Head of Catholic Identity and Mission
As we begin a new school year, we are filled with hope and excitement for the journey ahead. Inspired by St John Paul II, who had a deep love and unwavering commitment to young people, we are reminded of his belief that our youth are not only the future, but the hope of the Church and the world. Guided by his passion and understanding of the needs of young people, our staff are committed to fostering a supportive, encouraging, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to flourish. Together, we look forward to a year of growth, learning and hope within our school community.
Ms Christina Luzi - Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning
Ms Christina Luzi - Assistant Principal - Teaching and Learning
As we begin a new school year, I warmly welcome all students and families to our school community. The start of a year is always filled with hope and possibility—a time to reconnect, to set new goals, and to look ahead with confidence and optimism.
This year, we remain deeply committed to creating and strengthening a culture of success, belonging and respect. These are not just words we use; they are values we live each day in our classrooms, playgrounds and partnerships with families.
A culture of success means that every student is encouraged and supported to do their best. Success looks different for each child, and we value growth, effort and perseverance just as much as achievement. Our focus is on high expectations paired with strong support—helping students set achievable goals, embrace challenges, and develop the skills and confidence they need to flourish as learners.
Belonging sits at the heart of a thriving school. We want every student to feel known, valued and safe—to know that they are an important part of our community and that they truly belong here. Strong relationships between students, staff and families are essential, and we will continue to foster an environment where kindness, inclusion and care for one another are clearly evident.
Respect underpins everything we do. Respect for ourselves, for others and for learning creates the conditions in which students can grow academically, socially and emotionally. We expect our students to treat each other with dignity, to listen with open minds, and to take responsibility for their actions. In turn, we are committed to modelling these same values as staff and leaders.
Families play a vital role in shaping this culture, and we value our partnership with you. When school and homework together, students are best placed to succeed. We encourage open communication, shared expectations and ongoing collaboration throughout the year.
In a time of continued growth within our community, I take this opportunity to welcome our new staff members to the College;
Mrs Emily Catt - Business Manager
Mrs Emily Catt - Business Manager
FACILITIES
FACILITIES
Welcome back to a fresh Campus!
You will notice that significant work that has been undertaken during the Summer Holidays at the College. With fresh landscaping being finalised at the front of the Schofields Campus, the commencement of a barrel vaulted undercover area to assist with wet weather management, a building refurbishment and a substantial amount of the College being painted, we hope that both parents and students enjoy their school surroundings. Better Learning is enabled with good quality learning environments and feeling safe and happy in your surroundings ensures that this learning can take place.
In addition to the new projects, maintenance around the College was undertaken to ensure safety, comfort and functionality.
I hope that you and your children are pleased with the upgraded facilities and enjoy the continuous improvement taking place.
SCHOOL FEES
SCHOOL FEES
Updates to CSPDs School Fee Policy. Please see the document on Compass News Feed.
The first of three instalments of school fees will be invoiced within the fortnight. These will be issued via email and will be due 13 March 2026. If you wish to pay via smaller increments known as a Flexible Payment Arrangement, the first payment commences on 13 March and all payments will be completed by the end of August 2026 allowing for no school fee payments during Term 4.
Should you require further assistance with setting up payment arrangements or involving fees and charges, please contact the College’s Finance Team by Pressing Option 4 when you call 9208 7200.
Mr Anthony Hulme - Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Learning
Mr Anthony Hulme - Assistant Principal - Wellbeing and Learning
We would like to welcome all of our families to the new school year. In a very special way, we welcome families who have joined our community for the first time. Our new Year 7 students have made a fantastic start to their time here at St John Paul II, demonstrating cooperation, enthusiasm and exceptional manners.
As we begin a new year we are reminded that while for some, starting a new year can bring feelings of worry or sadness as our students readjust to new teachers and classrooms, we are never alone. Our College transition programs together with our Peer Support program will assist students in feeling comfortable with our wonderful and caring community.
As a way of introduction I would also like to introduce the Stage Teams for 2026 who will build the Culture of Success with all members of the year groups:
Stage 4 (Year 7 & 8)
Stage 4 (Year 7 & 8)
Head of Stage 4: Mr Cameron Watson
Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing: Mr Jesse Ocsan
Year 8 Leader of Wellbeing: Ms Carolina Cartegena
Stage 5 (Year 9 & 10)
Stage 5 (Year 9 & 10)
Head of Stage 5: Mr Adam Scarpin
Year 9 Leader of Wellbeing: Ms Sarah Azzopardi
Year 10 Leader of Wellbeing: Mr Brendan Ford
Stage 6 (Year 11 & 12)
Stage 6 (Year 11 & 12)
Head of Stage 6: Miss Carolyn Cairns
Year 11 Leader of Wellbeing: Miss Natasha Prudnicki
Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing: Mr Chris Chapman
The Home Room Teacher is the first point of contact in the College for your child. Please contact the College Office if you have any concerns or need to reach out to the Home Room teacher for any updates or concerns.
Community Hub Online (this platform) - Can be accessed via Compass favourites or College Website. Keep an eye on the Community Hub as we roll information and policies online.
SchoolTV
SchoolTV
The SchoolTV platform provides schools with an extensive range of wellbeing resources for parents, so they can work together in partnership. At regular intervals we will release important information, tip and tricks that will assist families.
Our recent release was on the transition to school:
https://stjohnpaul2.catholic.schooltv.me/newsletter/school-transitions
School student travel information - Opal Cards
School student travel information - Opal Cards
All students and parents are reminded that a valid Opal Card must be used when travelling on buses. Could we ask that all students have their card ready before boarding the bus, as traffic delays are being experienced due to students causing delays boarding buses.
Cards can be ordered at www.opal.com.au
For our Nirimba students catching 6062. It is extremely important that an Opalcard is used. Currently only a few students are tapping on, and the vehicle is at capacity. We cannot request additional services due to the low tap on counts. This service is being monitored so we need all students to continue to use the service. An additional vehicle will be called if the service is overcapacity.
Could we ask all parents to explain the Opal Card system to your children. It is a service provided by hard working parents through the use of their taxes. Unfortunately some students think bus travel is a free service and don't realise the enormous sacrifices parents make to support them.
Sun Safety
Sun Safety
Just a reminder for the STJPII College community, all students will require a STJPII school hat/cap at each practical PDHPE and sport lesson.
The major cause of common skin cancers is cumulative unprotected exposure to the sun. Research shows that most skin damage occurs during childhood and adolescence. As such, there is a need to raise awareness within the whole school community about the precautions needed to maximise protection from the sun.
All students must wear a school hat whenever they participate in outdoor activities in the sun. Please ensure your child has a STJPII school hat/cap and brings it to school each day. STJPII hats can be purchased from the School Locker Shop if they have lost or misplaced their hat/cap.
Uniform notifications will appear on compass, and uniform detentions will be issued for consistent non compliance.
In addition, the school has sunscreen available that can be obtained from the STJPII office and PDHPE storeroom.
It is really important to be reminded about the dangers of prolonged exposure to the sun and protective actions to ensure the health and safety of your children.
Student Devices - Macbooks
Student Devices - Macbooks
Last year a decision was made to move towards Macbooks across the College. Information was sent to families at that time. On December 10 last year social media laws changes come in force and this fully aligned with our transition to Macbooks to support young people in the appropriate use of technology.
Information sessions were held with all new year 7 families and this was discussed at enrolment time.
All students in Yrs 8-10 who have a working Chromebook can continue to use this until it is time to be updated. No new Chromebooks can be added to our network.
Unfortunately the College does not support Windows devices.
College Uniform
College Uniform
Uniform link on Community Hub: https://stjohnpaul2communityhub.parra.catholic.edu.au/uniforms
2026 CSPD Mobile Phone Policy Update
2026 CSPD Mobile Phone Policy Update
We have had a great start to the year in regard to the non use of phones on the College site. The CSPD policy that we will be following is that student mobile phones must be switched off when they enter the College grounds.
Some students are adjusting after the holiday break, but with a few reminders we will hopefully all be in alignment without consequences.
For those students who are consistently not following the guidelines, they will be asked to place their phone in the College office during the day.
~ Original communications sent Week 10, Term 4, 2026.
From Term 1, 2026, all CSPD schools will implement a new Student Use of Mobile Phones and Other Digital Devices Policy.
This policy has been developed to create more focused learning environments and to support student wellbeing and safety. It follows strong evidence from schools across Australia showing that limiting mobile phone use during the school day helps improve learning focus, reduces distraction, and supports positive relationships.
Under the new approach, students will not use mobile phones during school hours.
Secondary students will be responsible for the safe keeping of their phones. They cannot be used during the day.
Other digital devices such as smartwatches or Bluetooth earbuds may only be used for learning activities and require principal approval.
The significant change is that mobile phones must be switched off the moment a student walks into the gate. They can only be used once they leave the gate in the afternoon. This also includes bus lines (no access).
Using a phone to check the time is not a valid reason to switch on or check a phone.
Please note: A plan will need to be further developed with the canteen operators. Students will be able to use a physical card or cash for canteen purchases. Online ordering is currently being investigated. More info in the coming weeks.
Exemptions to the policy will need to be approved by the principal, justifying the need for the mobile phone to be accessible by the student. For example, medical or educational needs could be grounds for an exemption.
We understand that families may rely on mobile phones for communication, so if your child needs to contact you during the day, they can do so through the school office. Likewise, you can contact your child by calling the school office.
This change is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every CSPD school remains a safe, supportive, and respectful place to learn. More information, including FAQs, will be available on the CSPD website.
Thank you for your support as we work together to build focused, respectful, and distraction-free learning environments at St John Paul II Catholic College.
Navigating the Social Media Changes
Navigating the Social Media Changes
What's Changing?
From 10 December 2025, social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, X, and YouTube will no longer allow children under 16 to create or maintain an account.
This change gives young people more time to develop digital and emotional skills before engaging fully online.
What It Means for Our School Community
Students under 16 won’t be able to have personal accounts on major platforms.
They can still view public content without logging in.
Educational tools such as Google Classroom and YouTube Kids are not affected.
Our school will explore alternative communication methods for updates and events if needed.
For Students
Learn how to stay safe and positive online
Access eSafety’s Get Ready Guide for under-16s
Develop digital literacy and wellbeing skills
For Parents and Carers
Visit eSafety’s Social Media Age Restrictions Hub for tools and FAQs
Find guides to help start open conversations with your teen
Attend free eSafety webinars for practical advice and support
Upcoming Webinars for Educators & Families
Join a live 30-minute session to understand the new laws and support young people through the changes:
Wednesday 26 November, 3:45pm (AEDT)
Thursday 27 November, 3:45pm (AEDT)
Monday 1 December, 3:45pm (AEDT)
Register: esafety.gov.au/social-media-age-restrictions
How Our School Is Responding
We are committed to supporting students, staff, and families as these changes take effect.
Resources and updates will be shared through Wellbeing lessons, newsletters, assemblies.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Stay connected.
Learn more at the eSafety Commissioner’s official hub or download these resources below.
2026 Semester One College Events Snapshot
2026 Semester One College Events Snapshot
Click here for the Semester One 2026 snapshot. This calendar is also available on Compass and may be subject to change.
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