�鶹��ý

Congratulations to all our students on how well they have returned to school and settled in after being away from school for around 8 weeks. Thank you, parents and caregivers, for your support and patience in this process. I need to use this opportunity to acknowledge the incredible job done by all the staff as they have prepared for the return of the students. This has included various transition back-to-school initiatives and timelines to ensure that every student arrives, on their first day back, feeling comfortable and confident about school life in 2025. The flexibility, professionalism, dedication to the task in hand, resilience and collaboration of the Concordia staff, mixed in with lots of laughter and humour, need to be applauded and acknowledged. A very big welcome is also extended to those staff members who are new to our community. Further congratulations and thanks must also be extended to all the staff who contributed to the very successful 2024 Year 12 results.

Our College theme for 2025 is Three Histories, One Future. Choosing this theme has been very deliberate given that the building of Stage 1 of our new state-of-the-art Junior College and Early Learning Centre facilities will commence in due course. Plans for celebrating and acknowledging the people, history and rich traditions that have gone before us, focusing on and growing the present journey while excitedly planning for the future and a “new” Concordia will remain high on the agenda. I need to acknowledge the unwavering trust and unconditional support the College Council has brought to this journey and the input from the Junior College and Kindergarten staff and the Leadership Team. Our College Bible verse for 2025 affirms and underpins what our Master planning journey is all about - “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” [Jeremiah 29:11]

We also plan to focus on Gratitude as a learning community in 2025. We have so much to be thankful for every day. Gratitude is one of the most powerful forces in shaping a positive mindset and growing and nurturing quality relationships. It moves us from a glass-half-empty to a glass-half-full mindset as we focus on abundance rather than scarcity. Gratitude is about living thankful. I look forward to sharing with you more about the power of gratitude throughout 2025. Please also read the closing quote.

Concordia will continue to be a hive of activity as we plan for and implement the next exciting season on the College’s journey forward. These include:

• The ongoing implementation of a Contemporary Learning philosophy and framework across the college. This will be done under the guidance of Mr. Jamie Pukallus and a Contemporary Learning Team from both the Junior and Senior College teaching teams.
• The expansion of our Sports Program, under the guidance of Mr. Josh Biscoe, to include various Queensland State Competitions.
• The construction of Stage 1 of the college’s Master Plan to commence shortly.
• Rehearsals for the College Musical Anastasia which will be performed at the Empire Theatre on 23 and 24 May.
• The expansion of our bus fleet and the ongoing ability to offer this service free of charge.
• The expansion of the Ag Practices Program, and the
• Ongoing refurbishment and upgrading of learning spaces at our Stephen Street Campus.

As the school year gets underway, I would like to remind you of the strong open-door policy that both I and the Leadership Team propagate and our commitment to ensure that our Vision statement of Inspiring Lifelong Learners, Critical thinkers and Caring Citizens in a Christian Community remains at the forefront of how we go about doing living, learning and decision-making at Concordia. This relational and working commitment with you as a family is also extended to all staff at Concordia. Please stay connected with us throughout the year.

As part of our smooth transition back to the new school year, I would encourage you to make the most of the various events on the college calendar as we work together to ensure the best outcomes for every student.

I would like to wish everyone all the best for the new school year, and I hope to see as many of you throughout the year.

Mr Anton Prinsloo
Head of College

Quote of the Week:

When you arise in the morning

Give thanks for the morning light.

Give thanks for your life and strength.

Give thanks for your food.

And give thanks for the joy of living.

And if perchance you see no reason for giving thanks,

Rest assured the fault is in yourself. - [American Indian saying]

A busy term lies ahead, starting with our whole school opening service in the gym on Friday. We will also be unpacking our annual theme Three Histories One Future, and start to see the new Primary precinct take shape at Stephen Street.

There are many other community events, like the leadership ceremonies, scholars’ assembly, etc with parents and the whole school community invited – all opportunities to celebrate our community! Already next week there is the Swimming carnival! And, of course, preparations for the musical will swing into top gear this term.

We are looking forward to another year of learning and growing together here at Concordia under our Lord’s protection and guidance. Our theme verse from the prophet Jeremiah reminds us of that: For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jer 29:11)

I certainly pray that we may step into this year with confidence, with joy and with hope, in the knowledge that with God all things are possible and that we may receive gratefully the many blessings God provides for us day by day.

This will be my only article for the Week Ahead this term as I am enjoying some Refreshment leave (the name the church uses for what is generally known as long service leave) for the remainder of Term 1. I am looking forward to join you all again next term and I know that the team here, including Nicola Heuschele will capably cover for my absence.

Many blessings for this year to all of you.

God bless,

Thomas Böhmert
College Pastor

There are many staff that play an important role in maintaining quality pastoral care and support. This year we have had some changes to the way we support our students through the restructuring of our Year Level Coordinator roles. Our Year Level Coordinators for 2025 are:

· Year 7: Mrs Roslyn Cook

· Years 8 & 9: Mrs Jess Merretz

· Years 10, 11 & 12: Mrs Leah Bowes

Our Year Level Coordinators have the responsibility of providing support and care to students in their respective year levels. Families are encouraged to contact these staff members throughout the year for any pastoral-related matters that require support or intervention.

Not only are students supported within their own year level, but across our house groups. To enhance the support provided for our students, we have introduced the inclusion of House Coordinators in 2025. House Coordinators will be responsible for supporting students at a house level and through the promotion of house-based activities to build a sense of belonging and purpose. It is my pleasure to announce the following staff as our inaugural House Coordinators:

· Altus: Mrs Emma Pukallus

· Kessler: Mrs Chantelle Manteufel

· Stedman: Mrs Sam Eagleson

In addition to these positions, our college will continue to provide specialist Pastoral Care support through the following staff:

· Rev. Thomas Bohmert (College Pastor)

· Mrs Sarah Noffke (Student Counsellor)

· Mrs Libby Chapman (College Nurse)

· Mrs Sonya Holden (Learning Enrichment Coordinator)

· Mrs Kerri Turner (First Nations Support Coordinator)

· Ms Maureen Taurima (Boarding Coordinator)

· Mrs Karen Watson (Student Services Coordinator)

2025 is set to be a significant year for our college as we look to initiate the beginning phases of our Master Plan. This is represented through our college, “Three Histories, One Future.” This year we acknowledge and recognise the rich history that has shaped our college, whilst embracing the journey that our college is about to embark into the future.

Starting a new school year with clarity and consistency is essential for building a united future. That is why at �鶹��ý, we are committed to setting high expectations and forming deep connections with our students, staff and families. This is best reflected through our college’s “Relational Management Framework.” Restorative practices and social connections form an integral part of this framework to ensure that everyone in our community is respected, loved and cared for. In 2025, our college will dive deeper into the systems and processes that foster relationships and ensure effective interventions are implemented to set the standard that we expect as a community.

Our students at Stephen Street Campus have been guided through the first steps of this process throughout this week with a high emphasis on starting positively and implementing common routines. These routines are critical for developing a supportive college culture whereby students are setting an example for our community. To assist us with this, we would ask our families to reinforce the below expectations and routines within your family network to ensure clear and consistent standards.

Uniform:

Students are required to ensure that they wear the college uniform correctly every day. Further details on uniform expectations can be found through the “Uniform Guidelines” to be accessed via Parent Lounge. Students have the opportunity to wear their sports uniform on days when they have scheduled HPE or Dance lessons. For all other days of the week, it is expected that students wear full formal uniforms. For Term 1, students are to follow the Summer Uniform guidelines. Uniform requirements will be monitored closely by Home Class teachers and Year Level Coordinators. If families have any uniform-related questions, please direct your enquiry to the relevant Year Level Coordinator.

Hats:

The Uniform Guidelines clearly outline that hats are expected to be worn with the college uniform every day. This protects our students from harmful UV rays and is essential for all outdoor activities. Students are to ensure that they have their hats with them for every break throughout the day. Families can assist with this by ensuring that students pack their hats in their bags in the morning ready for the school day.

Technology:

�鶹��ý embraces the Queensland Department of Education’s stance on the “Phones away for the day” campaign. Mobile phones and other electronic devices (i.e. smart watches, airpods, etc.) have been proven to significantly impact engagement and attention to learning. To maximize learning time, students are expected to comply with the college’s ICT policy. Upon arrival at the college, phones are to be stored away in student lockers, secured with a suitable lock. Phones are to be kept in lockers throughout the entirety of the school day and can only be accessed once exiting the college. If students do not comply with this policy, then staff may be required to confiscate phones and/or technology devices that can later be collected from Student Services. Families are encouraged to talk through these expectations with their children and contact the college for any further queries.

Punctuality:

Our day begins at 8.25am each morning. Students are to ensure that they arrive on time and ready to learn with all necessary equipment. Students will begin their day most mornings in Vertical Home Classes. These classes are an important time to begin the day through devotion, prayer and preparation for learning. Assemblies are held together as a middle and senior college on Monday mornings with Chapel services held on Wednesday mornings. On these days students must arrive at school on time and present to the Chapel at the first morning bell. Families can assist the college with this by ensuring students arrive on time and engage in assembly and chapel services.

Lunch breaks:

There are a range of spaces available for students to access during lunch breaks. Students can access the Library, Gym, Ovals, Quadrangle and a range of shaded seated areas. It is important that students have the ability to exercise and move during lunch breaks. The Gym is one area that students access regularly to engage in physical activity. To ensure fair and equitable access of this space, the college has implemented a roster system for gym use during lunch breaks. Groupings are based on year-level structures with Middle College student (i.e. Years 7 – 9) sessions & Senior College student (i.e. Years 10 – 12) sessions. By scheduling rostered times to use the gym will promote safety and inclusion that is age-appropriate. All students can borrow sporting equipment daily from the gym storeroom at lunch breaks to be used at the outdoor courts and AFL oval.

Our college appreciates the support and guidance that our families provide for our college. By reinforcing these consistent routines and expectations, together we will build a strong culture for our community that allows learning and personal growth to flourish. If you would like any further information about college processes or have any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Over the course of the year, we will continue to reinforce key expectations and update families on systems in place to support our community. Thank you for the contribution you make to our College and I look forward to a positive and prosperous year ahead.

Take care,

Mr Tony Manteufel
Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Introducing the Concordia Business Directory – Now Live!

We have just launched an exciting initiative to support and connect our Concordia families – the Concordia Business Directory!

Now available on Teacher Kiosk and live in Parent Lounge under School Links – General Resources, this directory showcases local businesses owned and operated by Concordia families. Whether you’re looking for a professional service, a trusted local tradesperson, or a unique shopping experience, this is your go-to resource for supporting fellow Concordia families.

Even better – many businesses in the directory are offering exclusive discounts just for our school community! Be sure to check it out and take advantage of these special offers.

If you own a business, we’d love to add you in our growing directory! This is a fantastic opportunity to reach fellow families and be part of a strong and supportive network. If you’d like to be included, simply reach out.

Scholarship Applications – Final Days to Apply!

Does your child have a passion for learning, sport, the arts, or boarding life in a regional setting? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to apply for a �鶹��ý scholarship!

Applications close on 3 February 2025, so now is the time to take the first step towards realising your child’s dreams.

Scholarships are available in the following categories:

✔ Academic

✔ Sport

✔ Rural (Boarding)

✔ The Arts

For full details, including eligibility criteria and application checklists, visit our website today. Don’t wait – apply now!

February Family Tours – Register Now!

Do you know a family interested in joining �鶹��ý? We invite them to experience our authentic learning atmosphere during our February Family Tours on Tuesday 25 February & Wednesday 26 February.

These tours provide a fantastic opportunity to tour the College with our school leaders, speak directly with teachers, and see firsthand the engaging learning environment at Concordia.

Group sizes are small, so we encourage interested families to register their interest as soon as possible via our website to secure a place.

With so much to look forward to in 2025, we are excited to start the story of 2025 with our wonderful Concordia families – both new and returning. Here’s to a year of growth, success, and community spirit!

Warm regards,

Ms Belinda Sanders
Director of Marketing & Community Engagement

This year, we are thrilled to welcome over 60 new Prep students across both the Hume Street and Warwick Street Campuses. Along with our new Prep families, we also have 13 new students across other year levels. We extend a warm welcome to all these students and their families, and we look forward to getting to know them better as the year unfolds.

In 2025, we also have some new faces among our staff. Please join us in welcoming:

• Mrs Amy Knight – Prep Teacher WSC
• Miss Phebe Slager – Year 4 Teacher HSC
• Mrs Natasha Tremayne-Jackson – JC Visual Arts/Drama teacher
• Miss Tessa Hanrahan – Learning Assistant WSC
• Miss Mackenzie Weier – Learning Assistant HSC

As we continue with our Master Plan and work to bring our Junior College community together, it is important to remember where we have come from, but also where we are going. This year, our theme is “Three Histories, One Future,” reflecting the rich past we share as a school community and the bright future we are building together. We are excited to see our students growing, learning, and contributing to the ongoing journey that binds us all. With this in mind, we look forward to celebrating the achievements of our students as they make their mark in 2025.

A special moment next week will be the presentation of leadership badges to our Year 6 students, marking an important milestone in their journey. These special Assemblies will be taking place on Monday 3 February with Hume Street Campus commencing at 8.30am, and Warwick Street Campus at 2pm. These ceremonies are just the beginning of what promises to be a year full of leadership, growth, and responsibility for our Year 6 students.

As you and your family settle into the new school year, please remember that our doors are always open. If you have any concerns or questions about your student’s learning or well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher. Together, we can work to ensure the success and happiness of every student.

Blessings for the week ahead.

to view HSC's Events for Term 1 2025, Week 2.
to view WSC's Events for Term 1 2025, Week 2.

Mrs Juanetta Priest - Director of Campus (Hume Street)
Mrs Jackie Minnikin - Director of Campus (Warwick Street)

It is vital for us to create an environment where everyone feels included and protected. We would like to kindly ask for your cooperation and understanding as we work together to accommodate these student’s needs and ensure their safety.

Here are a couple of ways you are able to assist us.

1. Please avoid bringing nut items, boiled eggs and egg sandwiches to school.
2. If you do include these items in your students' lunch on any given day, please email your classroom teacher so that we can take appropriate action to keep our little person safe.
3. If your child has eggs before school, can you please ensure that they wash their hands well before entering school grounds.
4. As a school community, this is an opportunity to foster an atmosphere of empathy and support and teach our children about the importance of inclusivity and understanding. This will not only benefit the students with allergies but will also create a more compassionate environment for everyone.
5. In the event of an allergic reaction, our staff members are trained to respond promptly and effectively. We have protocols in place to handle such situations and your child’s safety remains our top priority.

By working together as a community, we can create a safe and welcoming environment for all our students, including those with special dietary needs. Your cooperation and support are greatly appreciated. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

1. Our Driveway has two lanes. The righthand lane is for the Reception Carpark and the Drive Through. The lefthand lane is for the Kindy as well as carparks east of the Drive Through.

2. For safety, please do not turn from the lefthand lane across the driveway traffic into the Reception carpark. We have had too many near misses.

3. Morning drop off - please do not leave your car parked in the Drive Through. If you would like to enter the gates with your child, please park in other parks and walk in. Another name for our Drive Through in the morning is the kiss and drop.

4. Our afternoon bell goes at 3.05pm for a 3.10pm finish. If you are able to come at approximately 3.15pm - 3.20pm, you will find that it is much easier.

If you have any further questions about our Drive Through procedure, please don’t hesitate to contact Reception.

This week, we have celebrated the beginning of the year with a series of special events, including our Year 12 Leadership Ceremony. This meaningful occasion saw our senior students receive their leadership ties from their parents or significant adults—a symbolic moment that marks their role as leaders and role models within our school. We are incredibly proud of our Year 12 cohort and look forward to seeing them shine throughout the year.

As we settle into the rhythm of the term, it is important to emphasise the value of a strong start. Setting good habits early—whether in study, time management, or personal well-being—lays the foundation for a successful and fulfilling year ahead. If at any point you would like to check in about your child’s progress, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s Home Class teacher or other relevant staff member.

Next Wednesday, 5 February, our annual SSC Swimming Carnival will take place, with Altus, Stedman, and Kessler houses competing for victory. This is always a highlight of the term, and although we have some very gifted swimmers who no doubt will leave their mark on the day, every student is able to contribute to their house’s success through participation and encouragement of their fellow peers.

Looking further ahead, we are excitedly preparing for our College Musical, Anastasia, which will take the stage in May. Rehearsals have already recommenced, and there is a great sense of anticipation about this performance.

Continuing with our extra-curricular offerings, there is a wide range of sporting opportunities available from early this term, providing students the chance to develop their skills and teamwork. Students will be receiving information about these opportunities in the coming days.

Finally, a reminder to mark your calendars for our Information Evening on 10 February from 5pm. This is a valuable opportunity for students and families to meet our dedicated teaching staff and learn more about the year ahead.

Yours in faith

Mr Jamie Pukallus
Director of Campus

Thank you to all parents for choosing Concordia Boarding as a home away from home for your child and for your excellent pack-in and naming of clothing. Much appreciated.

Everyone has quickly become acquainted with the school and boarding routines and expectations. I am very impressed.

Our dorms have been a hive of activity with students attending musical rehearsals, footy training, swimming, basketball and friendly games on the oval. Most of the students went on their first trip to the local shops.

Next week we will commence study sessions in the evenings. We have excellent tutors who are here to support, explain and assist during this time. Also to ensure that all students are in fact doing homework.

Please feel free to call me or the dorms at any time for a chat or a catch-up on how your child is travelling. As a parent myself, of boarding children, many years ago, we too must adjust to not having our children at home. This can be quite a test for us especially at certain times of the day. Your routines change, time goes slow, and we can feel lost.

Please feel free to call me on 0490890917 anytime or the respective boarding houses between 3.00pm to 5.30pm –Boys- Temme House 0490890915 or Girls -Giabal House 0490890916.

Hope you all enjoy this week's pictures.

Maureen

Boarding Coordinator