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The Year 11 student leaders need to be congratulated on how well they have stepped up into their various leadership roles with some already being the face of various end-of-year and weekly school events – a sign that the college is in for a bumper year in 2025. It was also very affirming to see them lead the Senior School Assembly so confidently this past fortnight. Our Year 5 students have also been called to action in the leadership space with nominations for 2025 underway. These students will now do their nomination speeches and interviews early next week. Good luck to all these students and thank you for making yourselves available to serve our school community next year.

Our Junior College hosted and celebrated our annual Christmas for the Bush Chapel service today – this remains one of my favourite Chapel services at Concordia. This year we were able to hand over a cheque of $1000 as well as boxes and boxes of items donated by our Junior College students, families and staff to Care Outreach. Thank you to the Year 1 staff and students for planning and coordinating this event on behalf of the college.

Another annual College event which is one of my favourites, is our Annual Visual Arts Showcase. All that I can say is “wow” when it comes to the quality of work, from Kindy – Year 12, on display in a stunning setting. Congratulations to all the students on the work that has been showcased and thank you to Mr. John Trappett, Ms Fumika Sato [Junior College] and Ms. Holly Kiehne [Senior College] for the work that has gone into planning and hosting this event but most importantly, inspiring and growing Visual Arts talents and passion amongst the students.

I need to take this opportunity to acknowledge and thank those parents amongst you who stepped up as the organisers, helpers, volunteers and overseers of the recently held Oktoberfest. The event, now in its second year, has emerged as a popular and enjoyable Concordia community event which we are hoping to build on in the years ahead, especially as we look forward to coming together as a college in 2026. We are in the process of working through, with various stakeholders, a process of reflecting on how to make the Oktoberfest bigger and better in the coming years.

With numerous events planned for the second half of the term, I would like to invite you to be part of as many as possible as we connect and grow as a community in various formal and informal college settings.

This past weekend saw my wife and I come together with our family and close friends to celebrate one of our children at their engagement party. These occasions force us to slow down and reflect on a lifetime of memory-making and the importance of nurturing strong bonds with our children and as a family. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget about the most important things in life: our children. It is important to invest time in quality interactions with our children as this has a profound impact on their development and well-being. I would like to share with you, in this newsletter, some simple yet meaningful ways to create lasting memories and strengthen your bond with your children and for those of us privileged already, with our grandchildren.

1. Play Together: Let them lead: Let your child choose the activity, whether it's building a fort, playing dress-up, or simply running around the backyard. Embrace the chaos: Don't worry about rules or winning. The goal is to have fun and connect on a deeper level.

2. Read Aloud Daily: Start early: Even newborns can benefit from listening to stories. The sound of your voice can be incredibly soothing and comforting. Create a cozy atmosphere: Cuddling up with your child and a book is a wonderful way to bond and foster a love of reading.

3. Schedule Special Time: Dedicate quality time: Set aside 10-15 minutes each day for uninterrupted, one-on-one time with your child. Let them choose the activity: This shows them that their preferences and interests matter.

4. Encourage Family Time: Create family traditions: Establish routines like game nights, movie nights or family dinners. Be present: Put away distractions and focus on spending quality time together.

5. Make Warm Memories: Focus on experiences: While material possessions may fade, memories last a lifetime. Create lasting traditions: Family traditions can provide a sense of belonging and security. The upcoming festive season is the ideal time to reinforce and consolidate these family traditions. [Acknowledgement: B. Gillies]

Personally, I feel that the most valuable gift which we can give our children is our time and attention.

Thank you for allowing Concordia to be part of your busyness and possibly at times family chaos, as we all navigate the remaining weeks of the 2024 school year.

Wishing everyone safe passage and great health over the coming weeks.

Yours in Christ

Mr Anton Prinsloo
Head of College

Quote of the week:

Smile at each other; smile at your wife, smile at your husband, smile at your children, smile at each other – it doesn’t matter who it is – and it will help you to grow up in greater love for each other. [Mother Teresa]

As a College of the LCANZ we teach our community about God’s love for each person and we encourage an attitude of service, using the gifts we have been blessed with for the benefit of others.

ALWS is very efficient in getting aid to where it is needed most and works to set people up to move out of poverty. Each Christmas ALWS encourages us to reflect on the presents we give and receive and to perhaps share some of this with those who live in much more challenging circumstances. For this purpose, ALWS publishes a “Gifts of Grace” catalogue, containing items that you are able to purchase as gifts to people in need around the world.

This year each school family will receive a copy of this catalogue (distributed through home groups in SSC and classes in the Primary schools), along with a story about an African boy called Nathan as an encouragement to talk about and see how you can make a positive difference in this world and bring hope and life to someone in need - through a simple Christmas gift, sharing God’s love in this way.

Many years ago our then teenage daughter asked if we rather than give her a Christmas gift could give something through “Gifts of Grace” and we have done it every year since, including also to my family in Germany (saving expensive postage and adding this into Gifts of Grace). There are all sorts of interesting possibilities offered with a variety of price tags.

So, I invite you to have a look and reflect and discuss with your children if this is something you wish to do and why you might take up this opportunity to perhaps give a Gift of Grace instead of another present. It’s a good opportunity to talk about what you value, what sacrificial giving means and how you can show God’s love to others and make a difference in the world. And I’m sure your children will enjoy choosing a gift.

Here is an electronic version of these gifts:

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8)

God bless,

Thomas Böhmert
College Pastor

Teachers have noticed that students who utilise AI tools often display increased motivation and creativity. By automating repetitive tasks, students can focus more on the quality of their work rather than getting bogged down in formatting or grammar. This allows for deeper engagement with the material and fosters critical thinking skills.

While AI offers numerous advantages, it also raises important questions about academic integrity and dependence on technology. Educators have indicated their concerns around the potential use of AI to shortcut their learning or plagiarise content. To address these issues, �鶹��ý has implemented guidelines to encourage ethical AI usage through the “Artificial Intelligence and Academic integrity Policy.” Acceptable forms of use of AI usage include:

· Generating initial ideas and inspiration for writing

· Assisting with grammar, spelling and sentence structure when these elements are not part of an assessment criteria

· Developing visual aides to accompany work under staff supervision

· Improving the readability of writing and fact-checking

While AI offers a range of ways to enhance learning, there are growing concerns around how AI tools are being developed to manipulate and threaten young people’s relationships and wellbeing. Despite the government’s efforts to raise the minimum age of social media access due to mounting concerns on youth mental health, young people are being exposed to different forms of AI bots to seek friendships and relationships.

The rise of AI-powered relationships is offering a new frontier in human interaction. Initially emerging in the gaming world, AI companionship has evolved into mainstream culture, with apps providing personalised experiences that range from platonic friendships to romantic encounters. These interactions can blur the boundaries between real and virtual relationships, creating confusion and potential psychological harm.

eSafety Commissioner research indicates that children as young as 12 are accessing apps by bypassing age restrictions, exposing them to age-inappropriate content. Researchers have also found that many adolescents are turning to virtual relationships for validation, risking unhealthy emotional attachments that can affect real-life relationships.

As AI reshapes social dynamics, it's crucial to stay informed and engaged. While AI can enhance education and creativity, it also presents challenges around privacy, mental health, and misinformation. Families are encouraged to talk to their children about their AI and social media usage. To assist families with these conversations, the college recommends viewing SchoolTV’s Special Report, “Navigating AI Relationships.” The information provided within this report will help families to foster an open dialogue and balanced approach to help young people navigate this evolving digital landscape.

If you would like to know more about �鶹��ý’s approach to use of AI in the classroom, please access the “Artificial Intelligence and Academic integrity Policy” via Parent Lounge. If you have any concerns around AI usage and its impacts on young people’s wellbeing, please contact a member of our Pastoral Care Team.

Mr Tony Manteufel
Director of Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Orientation Day was shortly before Oktoberfest, which will help our new students and families slide seamlessly into the warm environment that is �鶹��ý in 2025.

In other news, our Year 9 students have recently returned from Googa Camp. As part of our curriculum, this camp is essential for students to build resilience in team dynamics and leadership skills. The lessons they learn from overcoming challenges in nature translate to significant personal growth and become cherished memories for our students. I am sure parents/carers are delighted to have them back home and the stories will keep flowing for weeks to come.

In line with progress and improvement, we are delighted to let you know that the �鶹��ý app has had a brand-new lick of paint. There has been no change to the functionality so no need to worry. We recommend all parents and carers download the app and customise it to receive specific notifications relevant to their child's education. The tool provides a direct link to important updates and events, building stronger connection between school & home. 

The app is also your gateway to essential resources for College activities, including absentee registration and The Week Ahead newsletter, along with our website and social media platforms. Through the app, families also have the option to explore the student café, manage accounts through My Student Account and purchase replacement items in our new online Uniform Shop. While ordering uniform replacements online is easy, we remind all new families to book face-to-face appointments for uniform to ensure perfect fit.

Until next time, thank you for being an integral part of our �鶹��ý family.

Warm regards,

Ms Belinda Sanders
Director of Marketing & Community Engagement

Christmas for the Bush
Today we were filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible spirit of generosity and community that our Junior College has once again demonstrated through our annual Christmas for the Bush service project.
As is tradition, the Year 1 students took the lead in organising and delivering the Chapel service today and did a phenomenal job. This year’s theme was Love and Bike Wheels which was a unique way for the students to remind us of the importance of sharing God’s love.
The highlight of the service was watching the abundance of donations being presented on behalf of our Concordia community. With almost 100 boxes of goods and a cheque for over $1000, we are proud to be contributing to the wonderful work that is done each year by the Care Outreach team. Our deepest thanks must go to all that donated to this noble cause. Together, we have been able to help make a difference this Christmas.

CLC Art Show
This week we have been able to showcase the artistic talents of our students from Kindy to Year 12 at the Concordia Art Show. As we entered the showcase in the Function Centre, it felt like we were stepping into a professional gallery, with not one piece being the same.
Students were able to wander through the exhibition and show their parents and grandparents the work they have done whilst appreciating the work of their peers.
We have some outstanding artists at Concordia and we thank Mr John Trappett, supported by Ms Fumika Sato assisting our students in creating each of these pieces. We also thank Ms Holly Kiehne from SSC for the work she has done with the secondary students.

Progress and Potential Concert
Our Year 5 students were also able to showcase their musical talents this week, with the Progress and Potential concert being the culminating event after they had participated in the Instrumental Music program throughout the year. With many of these students picking up an instrument for the first time in February, it was remarkable to see how far they had come when they joined on stage to play as a band. Congratulations to all these students for their practice and perseverance. It definitely paid off!

Thank you to Ms Christina Marangelli for the work that she does with our instrumental program. The talent that is developing is outstanding.

As we continue through the rest of the term, we still have much to do. We look forward to our students competing in the Interhouse Swimming Carnival which is coming up in a couple of weeks. Their swimming lessons prior to this event have been assisting in building their confidence and stamina.
We also begin celebrating our Year 6 students as they complete their primary school years and move into secondary school. These students will enjoy dinners with their families in the coming weeks where they will be able to reminisce about their time at the Junior College.
We look forward to sharing our many end of year events with you all in the coming weeks.

Blessings for the week ahead.

to view HSC's Events for Term 4 2024, Week 6.
to view WSC's Events for Term 4 2024, Week 6.

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

Students have been invited to register their interest. They are able to do their act solo or with a group of friends. We aim for each item to be no longer than 2 minutes. When they register, they will need to let Lucas know if they need music and which song, and also if they need props, such as gym mats. We are looking forward to this very exciting event.

Please follow the link below to RSVP for our Family Fun Afternoon.

Last year the Hume Street Campus community brought in over 10,000 cans, bottles and poppers to be recycled to Containers for Change as part of the Year 3 and 4 Environmental Sustainability PBL unit. As a community, we raised over $1000 and was able to fund new soccer goals that students are able to enjoy each day.

This project was so successful last year so Student Council and the Environmental Captains would like to set a new sustainability goal for us all as a community. We would like to collect another 10,000 cans, bottles and poppers for 2024. This works out to $1000! With this money raised, we plan to buy $1000 worth of lunchtime activities to benefit every student in the school.

This money may go towards extra ezyrollers, more balls, STEM and library activities and different equipment for the playground. There is a big bin located outside the Year 3 classroom, home reader room and the kindy. Both eating areas will also have a bin especially for poppers. We encourage you to please recycle and bring in any spare cans, bottles and poppers to support this worthy cause.

There is a scheme number on the poster if parents would like to take this in directly to Containers for Change. Please see Mrs McManus if you have any questions about this. Thank you.

Prep - Nativity Characters

• School sports uniform
• Slides or thongs (to be worn to school, but will not be worn on stage)
• All other items supplied

Year 1 – Angels

• Men's plain white t-shirt from Kmart $4.50
• All other items supplied

Year 2 – Wise Men

• White t-shirt
  
• School sports shorts 
• Slides or thongs (to be worn to school, but will not be worn on stage)
• Capes and crowns (school to supply)

Year 3  

Innkeepers and Citizens

• Black t-shirt
• Dark coloured long pants or jeans
• Slides or sandals
• Aprons and vest (school to supply)

• White t-shirt
• Dark coloured long pants or jeans
• Slides or sandals
• Coats, headwear and suitcases (school to supply)

Year 4 – Fleece Force

• School sports shorts
• White shirt/t-shirt
• Slides or thongs
• All other items supplied

Year 5 – Inn Keepers and Market Stall Holders

• Plain black, brown, white or grey long sleeve shirt (doesn't need to match the pants)
• Plain black, brown, white or grey long pants (doesn't need to match the shirt) 
• No shoes when on stage (can wear anything on the night)

Year 6 - individual items for each character

This project is student-driven, which means we are leading the charge. By taking part, you’re joining a community of students committed to remembering those we’ve lost and supporting those still fighting. Every ponytail cut, every dollar raised, and every conversation sparked by this project makes a difference. It’s about showing that, as students, we can come together to create real, positive change in the world.

• Monday, 25 November
• Lunchtime
  
• Fundraising students will be shaving/donating their hair
  
• Hair spraying/colouring will be available as well

Please to donate!

Register and join

Special Mentions  

QLD School Futsal League Finals

Congratulations and good luck to our QSFL Futsal team, which plays in the Shield finals of the QSFL next Tuesday at Nissan Arena. The team played in 3 separate gala days across the year, finishing in 4th place of the Northern division and earning themselves a spot in the finals. The boys will face some fierce opponents from the Southern and Central divisions, and we wish them the best of luck!

For our Year 12 students, we are now in the home stretch. They are heading into their final week of External Assessments, and they are to be commended on the positive attitude and determination they have shown. This is their opportunity to make a lasting impression on 13 years of schooling, and we are proud of the effort they have demonstrated. We wish them every success as they complete their final exams and roll into post-school life.

This week’s Art Show has been a vibrant celebration of student creativity, showcasing the exceptional talent within our school. Congratulations to our dedicated Visual Arts teachers, Ms. Holly Kiehne and Mr. John Trappett, whose support and guidance have been instrumental in nurturing our students' artistic skills. It has been inspiring to witness such creativity and technical skill on display.

Our Parent Connect Oktoberfest event on October 19 was a truly remarkable evening. Full of activity, laughter, and good cheer, it was a time for us to come together to celebrate the best of our Concordia community and our shared German heritage. Sincere thanks to Parent Connect, along with the many family and staff volunteers, for making this event such a success. The shared enthusiasm added a wonderful warmth to the evening, and it has become a cherished part of our calendar.

Looking ahead, I encourage all families to join us for the CLC Presentation Evening on Monday, November 18. This is a special time to recognise and celebrate the academic and extracurricular achievements of our students, highlighting the many ways they excel and contribute to our College community.

As we approach the final three and a half weeks of the school year, I wish all our families the very best as we celebrate what makes our College special and anticipate the joyous Christmas period ahead.

Yours in faith

Mr Jamie Pukallus
Director of Campus