In today's dynamic educational landscape, the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) stands out as a model of holistic and continuous learning. By combining formative assessments and progressive reporting through portfolios, the PYP provides a comprehensive evaluation of student progress. This dual commitment has been embraced by St Peters Springfield with strong support from our teachers who are dedicated to its successful implementation.
By fostering a collaborative environment, the IB Primary Years Programme aligns with the educational goals of our College and we are in the process of creating a supportive framework for comprehensive learning that meets the diverse needs of students in 2024. This synergy not only enhances student development but also cultivates an atmosphere where every stakeholder is invested in the educational journey, making the PYP assessment approach a model for nurturing lifelong learners.
Both internal and external assessments are essential for gauging student success, but in the light of current research and the studies around best practice in the classroom, the use of standardised testing presents a significant challenge. These assessments are beneficial when used as data to enhance the quality of teaching and learning. However, they become detrimental when they are used to judge students' inherent abilities or when educators feel pressured to "teach to the test." Schools and parents should view standardised tests not as a definitive judgement of a student's worth, but as one of many data points offering insight into student learning.
As our understanding of how students learn best has grown, we recognise that our students are far from standard; they are unique, creative individuals with diverse skills and talents that need to be explored and celebrated. Regular feedback helps students identify their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a growth mindset and encouraging continuous learning and growth. We must rethink assessment and allow students to be the owners of their learning. As we implement a variety of tools and strategies that assist teachers and students in monitoring, documenting, measuring, and reporting their progress, we can create a more balanced and supportive educational environment that promotes the overall development of each student.
Susan Allenspach Primary Years Curriculum Coordinator
What's On
What's on - Term 3 Week 5 2024
12 AUGUST – Secondary ICAS English
13 AUGUST – Primary ICAS English
14 AUGUST – EKKA – Normal School Day for St Peters Springfield
16 AUGUST – Secondary Years Information Session (for Primary Years)
21 AUGUST – Year 2 Excursion to Mt Cootha Planetarium
23 AUGUST – Year 12 Pancake Lunch
Life Symposium 2 - Wednesday August 7 | 6:45pm - 8:15pm
Join us for an inspiring session with Dr Justin Coulson, renowned co-host and parenting expert on Channel Nine’s Parental Guidance. As the founder of happyfamilies.com.au and the author of nine best-selling books on raising resilient children, Justin is recognised as one of Australia’s most trusted authorities on parenting, relationships, and wellbeing.
We’ve all heard the news. A former Sydney schoolgirl. A petition. Literally thousands of stories of sexual assault. Non-consensual sexual encounters that are claimed to be common-place occurrences at parties for teens.
And our kids think it’s normal. They think it’s just how things are.
How are we supposed to talk to our children – our teenagers – about consent, respect, alcohol and other drugs, staying safe, and all of the risks they face? Between us not knowing what to say, or when or how to say it, and our kids not willing to hear it, we’re in a tough spot. But we have to have the conversations. We must. So where do we start?
Dr Justin Coulson, one of Australia’s leading parenting experts and father to six daughters, has put together a presentation designed specifically for parents of high school students. In this session, you’ll hear:
What teenagers are getting up to in terms of alcohol, drugs, pornography, and sex;
Why they think they know everything (and why it’s so hard to teach them anything);
Simple ways to have the conversations your teenager needs to have in a way that invites them to want to listen;
The critical things every parent must do to reduce the risk that their child will be either a perpetrator or a victim of non-consensual sexual activity (assault).
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and tools to have those difficult conversations with your child/ren around sex, consent and staying safe. This is an event not to be missed.
All proceeds from the Symposium will be donated to a children’s charity.
Thank you for your ongoing support and I look forward to seeing you at Symposium 2.
Important Notices
Sibling Enrolments 2026
The College is blessed to be experiencing unprecedented growth and interest in enrolment.
Families with children already at St Peters Lutheran College Springfield wishing to enrol a sibling in 2026 or beyond are reminded to submit an online enrolment application for your child if you have not already done so.
Please note that due to the very high demand for places, applications for siblings commencing in 2026 should be received before the end of Term 3, 2024. A link to our online enrolment application form can be found here - Enrol with Springfield. Sibling interviews are anticipated to commence in Term 4, 2024 and continue through to Term 2, 2025.
Please note that enrolment with our Kindergarten is separate to this, and families must ensure that they have registered their interest for a place directly with our onsite Kindergarten.
Families seeking enrolment in 2025 are urged to make immediate contact with the Enrolments Team to discuss availability.
This week at OSHC, we have been busy with a range of engaging and educational activities. Our students have been exploring their emotions through creative playdough faces, allowing them to express and recognise their feelings in a fun, hands-on way. We also channelled our enthusiasm for the Olympics by crafting vibrant Olympic torches, supporting our Australian team as they compete in Paris.
In addition to these activities, the children enjoyed using their imaginations and creativity during free play, with a particular focus on building with blocks. This open-ended playtime has fostered their problem-solving skills and teamwork.
Our Cultural Club has been a highlight this week as well. We celebrated our students with South African heritage by introducing them to Boerewors sausages, a traditional South African dish meaning "Farmers.” This culinary experience provided a wonderful opportunity for cultural exchange and learning.
At Before School Care, the children have been captivated by the Olympic highlights, with soccer and swimming emerging as their favourites. It has been a week full of learning, creativity, and celebration, and we are excited to see what the next week brings!
Jennie Awcock OSHC Service Leader
Primary Years
Primary Years Winter Uniform Expectations
As the mornings grow particularly cold, it is important to communicate our expectations for winter uniforms.
The cotton pullover (jumper) can be worn with both formal and Sports uniforms.
Girls wearing tights under the sports uniform may opt for College track pants, as the weather can change throughout the day.
Please note that white socks should not be worn with black tights, whether with Sports or formal uniforms.
By following these guidelines, we ensure our students stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter season.
You would remember that this year we trialled the Student Resource Scheme for students in Prep - Year 6. If you have any feedback on this scheme, please contact Mrs Lia Sabri by email l.sabri@stpeters.qld.edu.au. This will assist us to make decisions on this scheme for 2025.
Mrs Lia Sabri Head of Primary Years
Primary Years Disco Party - Friday 16 August
St Peters Springfield’s P&F is thrilled to invite our Primary Years students to an exciting Disco Party! Join us at the Junior High Precinct on Friday 16 August, for an evening filled with fun, music, and dancing.
Schedule:
Prep, Year 1, and Year 2: 4:30pm – 5:15pm
Years 3 – 6: 5:30pm – 6:30pm
We cannot wait to see our students showcase their dance moves!
Secondary Years
Central Australia First Nations Immersion Tour
Next year in the September holidays, we will be visiting Central Australia on a First Nations Immersion Tour. The tour is open to students in Years 10 and 11 in 2025.
On Tuesday 13 August, I will be speaking to the students about the tour at Assembly, then a Parent Information Night will be held online on Thursday 15 August at 6:15pm.
Please scan the QR Code on the image to register.
Please contact me at r.rankin@stpeters.qld.edu.au if you have any questions before the Parent Information Night.
Renata Rankin Director of Identity, Formation and Service
Performing Arts
Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod Awards Night
Some further outstanding results to celebrate from the Ipswich Junior Eisteddfod Awards Night held last week. Congratulations to:
Anvi D - Junior Public Speaking Award
Shanaya D - Aggregate 12 Years under
Sherry S, Gary R, Tejas B and William V – Encouragement Award
Ruhika S - Bursary Award 9 - 12 Years.
Primary Years Lunchtime Concert
Thanks to the Arts Captains and the Instrumental Tutors who are presently organising a performance opportunity for Primary Years at the Lunchtime Concert which will be held on the Concourse at 10:10am – 10:30am on Wednesday 14 August. Parents are most welcome to attend.
The Emperor’s New Clothes
The one and only performance of the Emperor’s New Clothes will be held on Friday 30 August in the Learning Commons at 6:00pm. There will be no admission charge for this event, but reservations will be required for seating and refreshments that will be served from 5:30pm, so please click on the link below to reserve a place for this exciting Performing Arts event. Emperor's New Clothes Reservation.
Studio Recitals
Private Tuition Studio Recitals will be held on Monday 19 and Thursday 22 August in the Learning Commons with only with three recitals each afternoon. Please complete the Studio Recitals Sign Up form to nominate your child to perform after consulting the Instrumental Tutor. Performance number limits will apply to ensure a smooth transition between each recital.
Change of Rehearsal Time for Allegro and Cantabile Strings
Allegro Strings and Cantabile Strings have rescheduled their rehearsal times for the remainder of this Term to Monday 10:10am - 10:40am (Allegro) and Tuesday 10:40am - 11:20am (Cantabile) in PA1. Please ensure you have your instruments here on a Monday or Tuesday.
Southside String Festival Online 2024
Several students will be involved in this online festival and will record their performances on Wednesday 14 August with Mrs Pomerenke. This Festival was established by a group of music educators collaborating with the local music institution Music Creators, who saw the need to fill a gap in our community to ensure all young string players had more opportunity to showcase their brilliant performance ability and creative learning technique. The aim is to provide an online environment to motivate young string students to develop their skills and raise artistic levels. The online platform provides an environment that allows the student to maximise their creative skills with confidence. This festival will be is adjudicated by Ms Loreta Fin.
Upcoming Events
Primary Years Lunchtime Concert: Wednesday 14 August
Studio Recitals: Monday 19 August and Thursday 22 August
Band Concert: Thursday 29 August
The Emperor’s New Clothes: Friday 30 August
Mrs Geraldine Campbell Performing Arts Co-ordinator
Sport
Springfield Sport
School Sport Australia Swimming Championships
From the 25-31 July, St Peters Springfield had four students compete at the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships. Well done to Amayah H (Year 7), Ethan S (Year 7), Jocelyn M (Year 8) and Lachlan S (Year 10) who all represented QLD at these championships.
Well done to Lachlan S who came third in his 100m Backstroke event. This makes Lachlan the third fasted 15-Year-old in Australia for this distance.
All students swam incredibly well, noteworthy results:
Amayah H: Finalist in the 50m Butterfly, third in the 4x50m Medley Relay.
Ethan S: Finalist in both the 50m and 100m Backstroke events.
Jocelyn M: 5th in 4x50m Freestyle Relay.
Primary Lutheran Soccer & Netball Gala Day
On Tuesday 30 July, 80 students from Years 4-6 had the opportunity to participate in a Soccer and Netball Gala Day against some of our more local Lutheran Primary schools. This was a great day, with all our students displaying tremendous sportsmanship and being wonderful stewards of the College.
Well done to the Year 6 Netball team and Year 6 Soccer teams who finished second.
QGSSSA Rhythmic Gymnastics
Congratulation to Michelle H (Year 7) and Sofia P (Year 8) who both competed at the QGSSSA Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships on Friday 2 August. St Peters did very well at these championships with these ladies contributing significantly. Michelle’s team place second with Sofia’s team placing third. Both said they had a great day competing and are looking forward to next years championships.
Years 3-6 Running Club – From Week 4
Running Club for Years 3-6 will is now on Monday and Thursday afternoons from 2:30pm – 4:00pm in preparation of our Athletic Carnivals. Mr Brayne will coach these sessions on the College Oval with a particular focus on Sprints, Middle Distance, Relays, High Jump, Long Jump, Shot Put, and Discus. Please email Mr Brayne on n.brayne@stpeters.qld.edu.au if your child will be attending, so we can register for this. There is no cost for these sessions.
Track & Field Training
A reminder for all students in Years 4-12. Track & Field trainings are on offer every Wednesday and Thursday morning here at the Springfield campus. Trainings start at 6:15am and finish at 7:30am.
Mr Brendan Johns Head of Sport
Girls Sport
QGSSSA Winter Sport
Round 4 of Winter Fixtures against St Aidan’s was very successful and it was great to showcase the Netball and Tennis programs as we welcomed thousands of visitors to the College for Open Day. Thank you to everyone who supported our Netball Focus Round on the Harts Road Courts.
Good luck to all teams against Brisbane Girls Grammar this weekend.
All results and ladder positions can be found at the QGSSSA website.
Round 5 vs Brisbane Girls Grammar | Saturday 10 August
A reminder that our expectation is that any absences from training or fixtures are communicated to the relevant Sport Coordinator in advance. Please ensure that you arrive on time for your warm-up or duty and in the correct playing uniform.
Congratulations to all girls selected to represent the College this weekend at the Vicki Wilson Cup Netball Championships and the Volleyball Schools Cup. We wish you well and look forward to following your progress.
Rhythmic Gymnastics
Congratulations to the 42 St Peters students that participated in the QGSSSA Rhythmic Gymnastics competition last Friday at Moreton Bay College.
The cohort this year saw girls in Years 7 – 12, from both Indooroopilly and Springfield campuses come together to form nine groups across Year 7, Year 8, B Grade, A Grade and Open divisions.
Led by Head coach, Vanja Stok, the program has once again grown in strength this year with St Peters winning three pennants in the Year 7i, Year 8ii and A Grade divisions.
These results are a testament to the hard work and commitment the girls have shown in training each week. They have spent many hours perfecting their skills and mastering choreography that included several tricky exchanges with balls and hoops, all while working in synchronisation with each other and the music.
A big thank you to the wonderful coaching group this year, who have always been there to assist and support the girls, also ensuring it was a fun and enjoyable experience for all groups.
Thank you to all the girls who participated in the program this year. Rhythmic Gymnastics is a beautiful Olympic sport, and we hope to see even more students joining next year!
Miss Emily Moore - Rhythmic Gymnastics Coordinator
Track & Field
It was great to see over 70 girls in attendance for our first QG Lead Up Meet last Friday.
Prior to the Meet, we presented our Open team with their shirts. It was nice to have some past students, who are now coaching with us, on hand to make those presentations. We also announced our leadership team for the 2024 Track & Field season. Congratulations to the following girls -
Captains | Isabelle P and Zoe C
Vice Captains | Sophie M and Sophie S
QGSSSA Track & Field | Lead Up Meet 2 – Friday 2 August | State Athletics Facility
There will be an early departure on Friday afternoon. The bus will depart from IND at 2:40pm. SFD students will be excused from lessons at 1:50pm. IND students will be excused from lessons at the end of Period 6 (2:20pm). Please note there is a return bus available this week.
I thought in general; our uniform was very good on Friday. We would like to see more students in the grey long sleeve Track & Field shirt which is available for purchase from the Parent Portal. Please bring your receipt to Sports House to collect your shirt. Remember to bring warm St Peters clothing and note that slides / crocs are not allowed.
We would like all potential relay runners to prioritise the Wednesday afternoon session for the remainder of the season. It will make a significant difference at the QG Championships.
Term 4 Sport Sign Up
Please note that sign up for Water Polo, QGSSSA AFL and MSW Cricket will close at the end of this week.
We would like to acknowledge student sporting achievements throughout the year. If your daughter has competed at a national or international level, please click here to share the details with us.
Term 3 Sports Coordinators
Before reaching out to one of our lovely coordinators, please first check to see if the information you require is available on the St Peters App.
Andy McGregor-Lowndes Acting Girls Sport Coordinator
Boys Sport
Congratulations and thank you
Kai G (Year 11) who attended the SLSA Australian titles for pool rescue over the weekend and recorded four Gold, two Silver and two Bronze individual medals as well as a Silver Relay Medal. We look forward to your results at Worlds!
Tennis News
Another great round of fixtures, congratulations on your efforts over the weekend and your continuing attendance at training as we are struggling with sickness and injuries. The commitment to your team, especially from our reserves has paid off. Good luck with this weekend’s competition against Marist College Ashgrove.
basketball News
Congratulations to all involved in the AIC Basketball focus round, the round started off on Friday afternoon with our Year 12 basketballers and Senior leaders creating a tunnel for our Year 6 students to run out on to the courts. While on Saturday the gym was filled to the brim with everyone attempting to catch a glimpse of the game and the half-time show. A fantastic display of school spirit all around!
On Monday 12 August at 5:30pm our First V will take on the St Peters Old Scholars in the annual SPOSA Basketball match. Get down to the court and cheer for our past and present Basketball stars!
track & Field News
With the first Track & Field meet for boys in two weeks, it is essential that boys are attending their nominated sessions consistently. Athletes should prioritise Tuesday afternoon sessions at UQ and also sprinters on Wednesday afternoon at Mayer oval for best opportunity for selection and preparation for Relays.
Please CLICK HERE for BASKETBALL game day schedule
For our St Peters sporting programs to positively develop and grow, it is paramount that our students attend training sessions for their chosen sport, so they can improve and refine Sport-specific skills and build cohesion amongst their team-mates.
If students are unable to attend some training sessions, it is vital that their absence is communicated to their coaches firstly, and also the respective coordinator/s.
ST PETERS ACHIEVEMENTS
To help St Peters celebrate the sporting achievements of students who have competed in a State or National teams please complete the Microsoft forms – CLICK HERE
With hundreds of athletes competing in dozens of Sports, this will help us ensure your students achievements are not left unnoticed and can be considered for College celebrations.
Term 3 Sport Sign Up
Last week all boys were emailed advising that Term 4 and 2025 Term 1 Sport sign on has now opened. Please complete the following survey by Friday 2 August, so that the College has accurate records of who is playing which Sports moving forwards.
To help St Peters celebrate the sporting achievements of students who have competed in a State or National teams please complete the Microsoft forms – CLICK HERE
With hundreds of athletes competing in dozens of sports, this will help us ensure your students achievements are not left unnoticed and can be considered for College celebrations.
Please also CLICK HERE to access the AIC Sporting Calendar for 2024.
Matchday expectations
A reminder that all St Peters boys do need to be dressed correctly at both AIC training and at AIC games. All uniform items can be purchased from Shop45 or via School Locker, please refer to the website for opening hours. For matchdays enclosed footwear must be worn to games, no slides or Crocs are to be worn at St Peters or associated AIC schools.
Basketball
Correct Training and Playing Uniform Requirements
At Games – All St Peters AIC Basketballers must be wearing:
St Peters jersey
St Peters maroon PE/sports shorts
Joggers must be worn at all times – No slides or thongs are to be worn at any time
Rugby League
Correct Training and Playing Uniform Requirements
Training – students must wear their ‘Program Shirt’ to their training session.
Games – students are to arrive at their game wearing:
St Peters ‘program shirt’ and then get changed into their jersey
Mouthguard is mandatory
Long maroon football socks
Joggers must be worn at all times – No slides or thongs are to be worn at any time
Tennis
Students to wear full PE uniform with tennis hat to games. First IV to wear the First uniform presented at the start of the season.
Track & Field
Students to wear the Track & Field singlet to all meets
ST PETERS STUDENT SPECTATORS ON GAMEDAYS
Please note, dogs are not permitted on campus to accompany spectators to watch Football or Rugby fixtures (service dogs permitted).
Should any St Peters student be attending a St Peters sporting event/game outside of normal College hours, it is expected that they are dressed in St Peters formal uniform. Should a student not be wearing the correct attire when attending a sporting event/game, they may be asked to leave the venue.
WET WEATHER AND CANCELLATIONS
With regards to wet weather and any unforeseen or potential cancellations of AIC sports, please ensure that you keep an eye out for notifications and alerts via the St Peters App. We will endeavour to keep everyone updated on both training cancellations and game day changes as the week progresses.
Daniel Fraser Boys Sport Coordinator
SPOSA
1st V vs Old Scholars Basketball - Monday 12 August
