Known, Supported, and Ready to Thrive
At Prince of Peace, we know every child, and every family, personally. We educate the whole child, nurturing care, character, and academic excellence. This year, our enhanced use of data is ensuring every student receives personalised support to reach their full potential.
Our innovative approach is already bearing fruit, with our students placing 1st and 3rd in the prestigious QUT Science Competition, a challenge combining science, mathematics, engineering, and leadership.
Our vision shapes everything we do, especially in guiding students through life’s key transition points. Research shows that well-supported transitions foster confidence, improve academic outcomes, and build a strong sense of belonging.
That’s why we’re investing in targeted strategies from Kindy to post-school pathways, co-creating experiences with parents to shape the best possible journey for every learner.
As Proverbs 22:6 reminds us, “Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” At Prince of Peace, we partner with families to shape capable, compassionate, and resilient young people, ready to thrive in every chapter of their lives.
Safety First: Volunteers we need your help
I know it is a big ask, but our children are precious, so we need you to help ensure a secure environment. Please obtain a Blue Card and complete Valuing Safe Communities Training if you would like to volunteer at the College.
The Blue Card system, run by Blue Card Services, provides background checks for anyone working or volunteering with children in Queensland. The process is free for volunteers and simple:
- Apply for a Blue Card. Apply for A Blue Card.
- Link to PoP: Email Karen Osborne (KOsborne@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au) with your date of birth and either your Blue Card account number or blue card approved card number, so we can link your card to Prince of Peace Lutheran College on the Queensland Government Blue Card Portal.
Lutheran schools seek to ensure that each member of the school community enjoys a positive, safe, healthy and respectful place of learning. To meet this expectation staff and volunteers of schools of the Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA), and early childhood services are obliged to meet the requirements of the ‘LCA Standards of Ethical Behaviour’ and related LCA policies. Valuing Safe Communities (VSC) is a school specific training program developed to comply with this expectation.
Stage 1
Step 1: Visit the following website: http://vscvolandrs.lutheran.edu.au
Step 2: Click on the button – Create new Account (at the bottom of the page)
Step 3: Complete the registration form, including the fields under the title ‘Valuing Safe Communities’. If the fields are hidden, click on the title (‘Valuing Safe Communities’) to reveal them, otherwise select your school.
Step 4: Click on the button – Create my New Account
Step 5: Check your inbox for an email from ‘iLearn Support’ ilearnsupport@alc.edu.au with the Subject: iLearn – Australian Lutheran College: account confirmation. If you can’t see it in your inbox, check your junk or spam folder. Click on the confirmation link contained in the email.
Step 6: After you click the confirmation link in the email, iLearn opens to confirm your registration. Before commencing Stage 2, please ‘log-out’ from the dashboard (top left-hand corner).
Stage 2
Step 7: Once you have registered OR if you have registered previously with ‘iLearn’, visit the following website: http://vscvolandrs.lutheran.edu.au
Step 8: Log in to ‘iLearn’ entering your username and password.
Step 9: Click on ‘Volunteer Training VSC’ under the Enrolment options
Step 10: Enter the Enrolment Key: VSC5_Volunt33r
Step 11: Commence the training by following the online prompts. Once the training is completed you will receive an electronic copy of a certificate. If you require any help during this process please email: ilearnsupport@alc.edu.au directly.
You can print a copy for your records and your completion date will be saved in the system. Please then email Karen Osborne a copy for our records.
Have Your Say – Be Part of the Future!
On Monday, 1 September from 3:15–4:15pm, come and see our brilliant students pitch their big ideas for new initiatives at Prince of Peace Lutheran College. This is their chance to shape teaching, learning, and campus life, and your chance to be inspired by the creativity, courage, and vision of the next generation. Student voice matters, and when it’s heard, engagement and innovation thrive!
Yours in Christ,
Dr Susan Carter
Head of College
Spotlight on PoP Staff!
This fortnight, we invite you to get to know another of our dedicated Learning Enrichment Officers and Aides— the unsung pillars of support working beside teachers that make such a big difference.
Camile Ishak — Learning Enrichment Officer
Joined Prince of Peace Staff: June 2019 | Campus: Junior
What is something you’ve loved or learned during your time at Prince of Peace?
Something I love about working at Prince of Peace is building connections with the students and seeing their confidence grow. I have learned how powerful care, patience and encouragement can be and that even small moments of support can make a big difference in a student’s day.
What is something about Prince of Peace that you think sets it apart from other schools?
What sets Prince of Peace apart is the way faith and wellbeing are lived out every day, not just taught. From Worship walks, well-being check-ins, personalised learning support to buddy connections and personal support for families – makes it so special.
What is one fun or surprising fact about you that people might not expect?
One surprising fact about me is that I spent just over 5 years sailing with my family – crossing both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. We travelled more than 15,000 nautical miles on our yacht, journeying from Europe to South America, ending in Tahiti. It was an amazing experience, so much fun and it taught me resilience, self-sufficiency and the value of simplicity.
What drew you into working in education — and what keeps you here?
After graduating with a Business Degree and training as a Chartered Accountant in the UK, my direction changed when I began homeschooling my son during our travels. Signs of dyslexia emerged and I wanted to help him so I completed the MSL (Multisensory Structured Language) training through IMSLE to support him. It transformed both his learning and my path. I love working with neurodiverse learners and I feel so lucky to be doing work I enjoy and the impact it brings.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be — and why?
If I could give my younger self some advice, it would be to enjoy each moment and stop worrying so much. Live for now, be confident in my conversations, and stop caring so much about what others think. Life is too short to spend it worrying! I have learned that when you focus on being yourself and embracing the present, you grow stronger and happier. Confidence comes from within, and it is okay to make mistakes along the way—they are all part of the journey.
What’s your go-to coffee (or tea) order?
I usually go for Chai tea – I call it my hug in a mug with a little spice!
What kind of student were you at school?
I went to school in Guyana, South America, where the classrooms were warm not just from the weather, but in spirit too! We were often surrounded by the sounds of nature and our learning environment felt vibrant and alive just like it does here. I was a hardworking student and especially loved maths. I enjoyed the logic and problem-solving side of it and it gave me a real sense of accomplishment. Those early school days taught me the value of hard work, curiosity, and connection—values that continue to guide me.
Term 3
August 20 on third week of the month due to Ekka public holiday (Junior Campus)
September 17 (Middle & Senior Campus)
Term 4
October 08 (Junior Campus)
November 12 (Middle & Senior Campus)
If you have any questions or need information about the P&F, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Amie Butler
P&F President
Celebrating Our Wonderful Grandparents and Special Friends
On Friday, our College community was blessed to welcome grandparents and special friends for one of the most treasured events of the year. The campus was filled with joy as our students proudly shared their learning, performed with confidence in a special music concert, and welcomed their guests into their classrooms and activities. It was a wonderful celebration of connection, with plenty of smiles, stories, and laughter echoing throughout the day.
Grandparents and special friends play an extraordinary role in the lives of our Prince of Peace students. They are mentors, encouragers, storytellers, and models of love and resilience. By taking the time to be present, they strengthen the bonds across generations, enrich our children’s sense of belonging, and remind them that they are supported by a community of people who deeply care for them. We are so grateful for the invaluable part they play in shaping the lives of our young people.
Enjoy these photos! We’ll soon be sharing a gallery link with families so you can browse all the photos taken and download your favourites to share with grandparents.
Bullying No Way Day – Be Bold. Be Kind. Speak Up.
Last Thursday, our Junior Campus came together to mark Bullying No Way Day with the 2025 theme: “Be bold. Be kind. Speak up.” Students proudly wore orange, purple, or both to show their support and stand united against bullying.
Each class took part in a special art activity inspired by Kandinsky’s colourful circles, creating concentric circle artworks that represented individuality and harmony. Our Year 6 students then brought all these pieces together into a vibrant mural, reminding us that every person in our community is unique and valued—and together we create something beautiful.
As part of the day, we also focused on building students’ ability to recognise and report bullying or poor behaviour, strengthening their confidence to use their voices in positive ways. By developing these skills, we are equipping students to take responsibility for their own actions, stand alongside others, and shape a community where every voice matters and respect is shown to all.
A huge shout out to the Year 6 teaching team, especially Mrs Erin Evans who led the development of this day.
Looking After One Another
Following the accident in Prep last week, we want to remind families that support is available for any child or parent who may still be feeling unsettled. Critical incidents can affect children in different ways, and it’s important to reach out if you notice changes in their emotions, behaviour, or sense of safety. Please know that our staff and counselling team are here to provide guidance, reassurance, and care as we continue to support our young learners and their families.
Charting New Stories: PoP’s Book Week Voyage
Ahoy, mateys! Yesterday our Junior Campus set sail on a grand voyage for the 2025 Book Week Parade with the theme “Book an Adventure.” The campus was awash with pirates, explorers, and storybook heroes, each ready to chart a new course through the seas of imagination. With plenty of “arrrs,” laughter, and a treasure chest of creativity, students and staff alike showed that books are the best kind of adventure—no map required!
This year was even more special as we celebrated 80 years of Book Week. Our Year 6 students took the helm for the much-loved Book and Blanket, sharing fables they had created with the Prince of Peace student community. It was a wonderful reminder that storytelling continues to inspire, connect, and bring joy across the generations of readers.
Upcoming Events at POP
- P–2 Swimming (starts Sept 1): Our youngest adventurers will be diving into swimming lessons — no need to walk the plank, just bring your goggles and a splash of courage! Refer to SEQTA messages.
- Father’s Day Breakfast: A hearty morning feast of Donuts to celebrate all our dads and father figures. A perfect way to start the day together.
- Spanish Day (Sept 5): ¡Olé! A fiesta of culture, colour, and language as we celebrate Spanish Day across the campus. 🌟
- Colour Run(Sept 18) : To round out the term, we’ll race through a rainbow of fun at our annual Colour Run — a true treasure of joy for everyone! 🌈
Until our next adventure…
Captain Anne-Marie ⚓☠️
Head of Campus – Junior
The Joy of Grandparents and Special Friends
Last Friday, our College community was filled with joy as we welcomed over 200 grandparents and special friends to share in a memorable day with our students. The smiles, hugs, and proud moments reminded us all of the unique and irreplaceable role these loved ones play in the lives of our young people.
Guests were treated to classroom visits, where they were able to experience first-hand the rich learning and creativity taking place each day. The delight on students’ faces as they showed their grandparents and friends their work, classrooms, and playgrounds was truly heart-warming.
We are so grateful for the wisdom, love, and encouragement our grandparents and special friends bring. Their presence on campus was a wonderful reminder of the strong connections between home, family, and school. Thank you to everyone who joined us for making the day such a special celebration.
Enjoy these photos, we’ll soon be sharing a gallery link with families so you can browse all the photos taken and download your favourites to share with grandparents.
Science Week Wrap-Up
Our campus has been a buzz this past week with all things science as we celebrated National Science Week! From awe-inspiring experiments to exciting competitions, it has been a week full of curiosity, creativity, and discovery.
✨ QUT Science and Innovation Challenge
As we shared earlier, our talented Year 9 and Year 10 students competed in the QUT Science and Innovation Challenge and brought home 1st place AND 3rd place! What an outstanding achievement. Congratulations to these budding innovators for showcasing their skills and teamwork at such a high level.
🔬 Year 3 Science Afternoon
Our Year 3 students stepped into the world of discovery as they visited the Senior Campus for an afternoon of exciting hands-on science. From bubbling chemical reactions to mind-bending physics challenges, our young learners explored, experimented, and were inspired by the endless possibilities that science offers. Guided by passionate Senior Campus staff, Year 3 Teacher Mrs Lauren Bain and mentored by older students, our Year 3s caught a glimpse of the innovative, future-focused learning that awaits them in the years ahead.
💥 Street Science Show
We were also thrilled to welcome Street Science to our College for a spectacular interactive show. From jaw-dropping experiments to fascinating demonstrations, students were captivated from start to finish. There was laughter, gasps of amazement, and plenty of “Wow!” moments as the magic of scientific discovery came to life.
👩🔬 Guest Speakers: Louise Phillips & Dr Divya Mehta
We were honoured to hear from two proud members of our parent community, Louise Phillips and Dr Divya Mehta, who shared both their passion for science and their inspiring personal journeys. Inviting scientists and researchers into our school not only fuels curiosity, but also connects classroom learning with real-world applications, showing our students the incredible possibilities of scientific careers.
🌟 A Celebration of Curiosity
National Science Week is about more than just fun (though we had plenty of that!). It’s about igniting a lifelong love of learning, encouraging critical thinking, and showing our students how science connects to the world around them.
A huge thank you to everyone who made this year’s Science Week such a success. Here’s to a future full of curiosity, creativity, and scientific exploration!
Thank You Ms Templeton!
This week we extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms Templeton for her wonderful contribution to Prince of Peace Lutheran College in her role as Learning Enrichment Officer.
Ms Templeton has brought a caring and supportive presence to our College, walking alongside students to ensure they feel valued, encouraged, and equipped to do their best. Her patient guidance and genuine concern for each learner have made a lasting difference in the lives of many.
As Ms Templeton now moves on from her role at the College, we wish her every blessing for the future and thank her sincerely for the way she has served our community with warmth and kindness. An advertisement has been released to seek a suitable replacement who will continue to provide the same care and support for our students.
The Importance of Reflecting on Bullying No Way! Day
Last week, our students and staff donned their purple attire to support Bullying No Way!. This day is more than just a date on the calendar, it is an important reminder to pause, reflect, and take action. As a community, it gives us the opportunity to consider how our words and actions impact others, to stand together in kindness and respect, and to commit to creating a safe and supportive environment for all.
Reflection is key. It encourages our students to think about the choices they make each day, the way they include others, and how they can use their voice to stand up for what is right. By building empathy, resilience, and compassion, we empower young people to play an active role in preventing bullying and shaping a culture of care.
Together, as students, staff, and families, we continue to affirm that bullying has no place in our community.
Book Week!
Blessings,
Coreta Lennon
Acting Head of Campus — Senior Campus
2025 Semester 1 Year 9 Academic Awards
In Week 2 of Term 3 we came together as a community recognising the learning and growth of student academic achievement in Semester 1. We were delighted to be able to present Academic Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards, however our Year 9 cohort was off enjoying the challenges and adventure of the Mt Binga Outdoor Education camp. Last week we were pleased to be able to recognise and present certificates to the following Year 9 recipients.
Gold Award
Julia Cormack
Maddison Currey
Thomas Forbes-Schutz
Georgia Gardner
Phoebe Jones
Darcy Tune
Emmett Watson
Silver Award
Olivia Benett
Charlotte Cook
Dallas-Rose Smith
Joshua Kaden
Lachlan Larder
Monte Morse
Eleanor Roberts
Amelia Savaille
Asha Steyn
Bronze Award
Ava-Rose Bolger
Thi Boyle
Olivia Christian
Erin Doig
Finn Garrad
Sage Handley
Izabella Lee
Sally Lever
Ruby McCall
Rehaan Rajput
Colin Shaner
Cameron Tull-Smith
Sophia Valencia-Revatta
Cash Viner
Sophie Williamson
Careers @ PoP
Busy Times
Term 3 is always a busy time of year, with Year 10 students finalising their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plans, and Year 12 students preparing for their external exams and life beyond PoP. Below are some key updates and opportunities for students and families.
QTAC Student Portal
A reminder that the QTAC portal is now open. Year 12 students are encouraged to submit their on-time applications by 30 September. After this date, the application fee increases from $70 to $150.
If students or families would like assistance with the application process, please contact me directly to arrange a suitable meeting time.
QTAC Resources
Hot Tips: Your Ultimate Guide to a Successful QTAC Application
An excellent step-by-step guide to the QTAC process is available at QTAC Hot Tips Guide »
QTAC Online Student Information Evening
Date: Wednesday 17 September
Time: 6:00–7:00pm (AEST)
Format: Free online event
Thinking of applying through QTAC? This live session will give students (and parents) practical advice to feel confident and prepared throughout the application process.
QTAC experts will walk you through insider tips and answer key questions. Register here »
Headstart University Programs
START QUT Webinar
- Date: Tuesday 2 September
- Time: 5:30–7:00pm
- Details: Learn how Year 11 students can study a university subject while still at school. Hear from past students about their experiences. Register here »
UniSC Headstart Information Evening
- UniSC Moreton Bay: Wednesday 3 September, 4:30–6:00pm
- Online: Wednesday 10 September, 5:30–6:30pm
- Details: Headstart allows Year 10–12 students to complete a first-year university subject, with the first course covered by UniSC. Additional courses cost only $400, offering both experience and savings. Further Information and Registration »
Year 10 SET Plan Update
Mr Russell, Miss Collman and Mrs Grosas are nearing the completion of the Year 10 SET Plan process. A reminder that this is a compulsory statewide activity for all Year 10 students.
Once all interviews are complete and data collated, Mrs Grosas will contact students and families who have indicated an interest in alternate pathways. Together, we will map out the next steps to support each student’s senior schooling journey.
Graduate Update – Patrick Austin (Class of 2023)
With an ATAR well above 90, Patrick had many opportunities open to him. However, his dream was to serve in the Defence Force. Patrick is now an Officer Cadet (OCDT) in his second year at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA).
Originally beginning his studies in the sciences, Patrick soon discovered his true passion lay elsewhere and has since transferred into a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in International Political Studies and Geography.
We congratulate Patrick on pursuing his goals with determination and wish him every success in his future career.
Pictured: Patrick at the ADFA Open Day.
ADFA Open Day
Earlier this year, I received an email inviting me to become an ADF Influencer. At the time, I wasn’t entirely sure what that meant—but I said yes, and I’m glad I did! Since then, I’ve had several opportunities to engage with the Defence Force and learn more about the pathways available to young people.
This past weekend, I was fortunate to be one of just 50 people invited to attend the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Open Day in Canberra.
The event began on Friday evening with dinner and introductions, before a full day of activities on Saturday. We were taken to ADFA to experience first-hand the life of Officer Cadets. Highlights included:
- Displays from a variety of clubs and services
- Military vehicles and infantry demonstrations
- Aerial displays featuring the Roulettes and jet fighters
- Course information sessions and Q&A panels with current cadets
- The day’s finale—a long-standing ADFA tradition, the Beating Retreat parade.
This experience has given me valuable insight into the opportunities available for students considering a career in the Defence Force. Moving forward, I will be connecting with interested Year 11 students to explore what a Defence pathway might look like for them, and to support those wishing to start their applications early.
If you have any further questions regarding anything what TAFE is offering, please contact me via a direct message.
Julie Grosas
Careers and VET Leader
Middle & Senior Campus Sport
NBIS Gala Day – Ultimate Disc Friday 22 August
The NBIS Ultimate Disc Gala Day is this Friday! We are sending two senior teams to compete in the event.
Where: South Pine Sports Complex – the rugby fields near the basketball stadium
When: Friday 22 August – 8.30am-2.15pm
What to bring: Sport uniform, hat, water and lunch. Sunscreen will be provided. There will be a canteen open but I would suggest that you bring your own food as well.
Best of luck to all students!
Met North Track and Field Carnival – Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 August
Best of luck to all students that are attending the Met North Track and Field Carnival next week. I will update you with results in the next edition of Popcorn.
If you require any more information, please contact myself via SEQTA or the Middle & Senior Campus via email receptionsc@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au
Gabrielle Collman
Middle & Senior Campus Teacher – Sports Coordinator
Worship
Sunday 24 August: 9am Worship
Sunday 31 August: 9am Worship
Please keep an eye on the Prince of Peace Church Facebook page for service updates.
Vacation Care Program
The September 2025 Vacation Care Program is now available for download »
All booking forms are due by 19 September 2025, bookings made after this date will be charged at a casual rate. Download the booking form »
