Wow, what a last few weeks filled with celebration, excitement and a few tears! Congratulations, to our Year 12 students. They have shown resilience and growth throughout 2025. On behalf of the College, we are very proud of the beautiful people they have grown to be. We pray they remember: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13). Excitedly this year we have a host of students who have received early offer to university, trades and employment! The hard work of students, teachers, parents and families has our students up for an amazing future. Go boldly Year 12!
A New Era for Digital Wellbeing in Australia. The government is making history with a world-first social media ban for under 16s, effective 10 December 2025. This bold move will transform how young people connect and thrive in an online world and it starts with us. Please do access and explore the Government resources to assist you in the transition via the eSafety Commissioner’s website and consider registering for one of their free information webinars for parents.
Christmas Carols are on Friday 5 December. Please join us in celebrating the season at our Prince of Peace Church Carols on the Junior Campus. Thanks to our Church team lead by Pastor Nick and Jon, for your work in organising the Community Christmas Carols, and to all of the staff and students who are pitching in so we can make music together.
We are delighted to welcome Mr Ian Hayne as our new Deputy K–12 Pedagogical Innovation, commencing in 2026. Ian has consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership as a Deputy, excelling in the implementation of AI policy, development of pedagogical frameworks, and fostering effective communication. His proven ability to utilise data analysis to drive educational improvement is a tremendous asset to our College, and we look forward to benefiting from his vision and expertise as we continue to innovate and grow.
I also wanted to share a ministry update and congratulations to Sarah Hoff-Zweck, appointed Ministry Lead for Lutheran Youth of Queensland (LYQ).
Cultural Language Tour is a possibility, and we are sending out a short survey to parents this week to gauge interest in a Cultural Language Tour to Indonesia in 2026/2027 for Secondary students. This idea stems from feedback in the 2024 MMG survey and discussions with teachers (some fabulous tenacious advocacy) about expanding extra/co-curricular opportunities. The tour would be timed to minimise classroom disruption and run partly during holidays. We are currently in the concept phase, with feasibility and curriculum mapping underway. Your survey data will guide our direction.
As we are drawing toward our close this term, let’s celebrate the blessings of community, growth, and opportunity. May we continue to walk in faith and courage as we look ahead to 2026.
“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.
Blessings and gratitude to you all.
Dr Susan Carter
Head of College
Resilience — Free Parent webinar Wednesday 26 November
Elevate Education will be hosting their next live Parent Webinar: How You Can Build Resilience in Your Child on 26 November, 6:30-7:30pm (AEDT).
Here’s what Elevate will be covering:
- Practical strategies to help your child manage their response to setbacks
- Building your child’s resilience both in and out of school
- How ‘fear of failure’ can impact your child’s resilience
Elevate works with our students, delivering high-impact workshops on study skills, motivation, wellbeing, and exam preparation. By tuning into their webinar series, you’ll learn how you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they’re learning at school.
Sign up for the session to learn how you can help your child to recover quickly from unexpected speed bumps and take control of their response to setbacks.
2026 Meet & Greet
Families are invited to meet their teacher/s and visit their new classrooms during our 2026 Meet & Greet Sessions being held on Thursday 22 January 2026.
- Junior Campus – 9:00am – 10:30am
- Senior Campus – 10:00am – 11:30am
The School Locker Summer Holiday Open Hours
Campus Uniform Shop
The School Locker will be opening our Campus Uniform Shop twice during the January 2026 School Holiday period.
- Day 1 – Thursday 15 January 2026 8:00am – 12 noon
- Day 2 – Thursday 22 January 2026 from 8:00am – 12 noon
The North Lakes Store
Open 6 days a week in December, open 7 days a week in January.
PoP P&F Wrap-Up for 2025!
If you’re anything like my family, the countdown to Christmas is well and truly on! This is such a wonderful time to pause and reflect on what we’ve achieved together this year.
I am so proud of the PoP Parent & Friend community and everything we’ve accomplished. As this was my first year as P&F President, I wasn’t exactly sure what I was stepping into, but with the incredible support of our expert event planner and organiser Secretary Amber Dean, all-round volunteer and fundraising dynamo VP Michelle Faragher, and seasoned and steadfast Treasurer Billy Govan we’ve had a fantastic year!
A big shout-out to Andrea Rhind and Rebecca Hitchenson for steering Yatala Pies, Scholastic Book Club, and the Book Fair; Emma Watson and Ainsley Hellen for making our Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls such a success; Nicole Kreiger for keeping the Junior Campus snack station fully stocked; Judy Gardner, who creates the most amazing quiet play spaces at our events; Emma Nicolls and Emma Schmalkuche for moderating our PoP Parent Group Facebook page and Jon Shaner from PoP Church for always being ready to lend a hand.
And of course, heartfelt thanks to every volunteer and staff member who pitched in at our events, including our very first Bush Dance, which was such a hit we’ve decided to make it an annual tradition! We also want to acknowledge the fundraising efforts from previous years, including the incredible contributions from Emma Nicolls and the Tuckshop crew as well as Andrea Rhind and Rebecca Hitchenson, which helped make this year’s achievements possible.
To our loyal group of parents and friends who attend P&F meetings each month to offer advice, share expertise, and support, thank you! And a special mention to Rodd Chignell, our official grant writer.
We also couldn’t have done this without the incredible support of our College leadership team; Dr Susan Carter, Anne-Marie Schmidt, Coreta Lennon, and the behind-the-scenes heroes: Darren Moyle and the Facilities crew, Tracey Jones and the Accounts team, Donna Cook, Matthew Noon and Daphne Gao, and our amazing administrators Jenell Molkentin, Kellie Sydlarczuk, and Karen Osborne. Your collaboration and effort make everything possible.
What We’ve Achieved Together
Thanks to your support (and funds raised this year and in previous years), we’ve been able to provide:
- College BBQ – $3,500: Helping us raise even more funds at events!
- MSC Outdoor Seating & Tables – $18,000: A brilliant idea from our Year 11 & 12 students for more shaded spaces to work and socialise.
- JC Ping Pong Tables – $2,500: Suggested by our Year 3 leaders at the Student Leadership Summit.
- JC Picnic Tables – $6,000: Inspired by Year 6 students, including a smaller table for our youngest learners.
- ALWS charity donation – $140: From Shrove Tuesday fundraising event.
And to top it off, we celebrated our wonderful teaching and support staff on World Teacher’s Day with a delicious spread of goodies!
Thank you for being part of this amazing community. Here’s to an even bigger and brighter 2026.
Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for that hard-to-buy-for person?
The PoP P&F has you covered with the Entertainment Membership!
Yes, the Entertainment Book still exists but now it’s all online. So no more forgetting those coupons at home. Just use the app to save, and enjoy. Give the gift of endless fun and savings this Christmas!
Scan the QR code or visit this page to grab yours today.
Plus, 20% of your purchase (that’s $14!) goes straight to funding exciting new projects for next year. Entertainment Book profits prior to Dec 2025 funded the PoP Music Supporter Group, moving forward all funds will be directed toward PoP P&F projects.
Ice Blocks Back by Popular Demand!
$1 Ice Blocks will be available at the JC this Thursday, 26th November – one day only!
Celebrate the countdown to the end of term with a cool treat on these hot days. A huge thank you to Marta Vinals Llorens for making this happen.
JC Green Room kitchen during 2nd break, don’t forget your $1!
💜 Calippo
🖤 Choc coated vanilla (GF)
❤️ Lemonade, Cola & Raspberry icy poles (DF, GF)
🧡 Twin pole varieties (GF, DF)
💜 Rainbow Plat-a-pops
🤎 Chocolate Plat-a-pops
❤️ Split varieties (GF)
Get Ready for 2026 — Volunteers Needed!
The P&F has an exciting calendar of events planned for 2026, and we need your help to make them happen. Events can only run if we have enough volunteers – your support truly matters.
Please complete this 2026 Parent Volunteer Expression of Interest Form »
Volunteer Requirements for 2026
If you’re planning to help next year, now is a great time to get your volunteer requirements sorted:
Blue Card
Details via SEQTA > Portal > Volunteering at PoP > P&F Information
Email your Blue Card number + DOB to KOsborne@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au
Valuing Safe Communities (VSC) Training
Access via SEQTA > Portal > Volunteering at PoP > P&F Information and email your certificate to KOsborne@princeofpeace.qld.edu.au
Need assistance? Attend the VSC training help session:
📅 Sun 30 Nov • 🕙 Starting about 11am • 📍 PoP Lutheran Church
Bring your own laptop or tablet (if possible — limited devices available to borrow), WiFi to be provideded.
Contact JShaner@princeofpeace.org.au
New for 2026 – P&F Meetings Go Hybrid
Ever wanted to join a P&F meeting but 7:00pm on a Wednesday is prime time for bedtime chaos? We hear you! Starting in 2026, our P&F General Meetings will be available both in-person and online via Microsoft Teams. They will be held twice per term, alternating between the Junior and Senior Campuses. Join us in person or online.
If you’ve ever been curious about what happens, want to get involved but weren’t sure how, or you’re new to PoP and keen to meet other parents, this is your chance!
Here’s what to expect at each meeting:
- College Update: A guest from the College will share what’s happening in their world.
- Upcoming Events: Learn what’s on the horizon and how you can get involved.
- Wishlist Items: Hear about projects and resources identified by the College and students that need P&F support through fundraising, donations, or assistance.
- Fundraising Progress: Updates on what we’re working towards and goals achieved.
- Grant News: Find out about any grants we’ve applied for and their status.
- Open Forum: Your opportunity to ask questions, share feedback, and suggest ideas.
Stay tuned for Teams links and reminders in upcoming newsletters, SEQTA messages and the PoP Parents Group on Facebook.
If you have any questions or need information about the P&F, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Amie Butler
P&F President
PoP Celebrates – Junior Campus
On Tuesday, our Junior Campus came together for a very special occasion—the Awards Ceremony, a time to honour so many students for their service, involvement, and achievements across Arts and Culture, Sporting Excellence, and Community Service.
This event was more than a ceremony; it was a celebration of the dedication, talent, and character that enrich our College community. Each award reflected countless hours of effort, courage to step up, and a willingness to contribute beyond the classroom. Congratulations to every student recognised, we are inspired by our students and so proud of the way they lead, serve, and shine!
Official Awards photos are being taken on Monday 1 December, and once complete, we will publish a Photo Gallery to the College website and send a link to parents and carers who may wish to download photos.
Junior Campus Instrumental Afternoons
Last week, our Junior Campus was alive with music as we hosted not one but two instrumental afternoons to accommodate the growing number of students eager to learn an instrument. Although I was unable to attend due to a family funeral, I’ve heard inspiring stories of courage, perseverance, and joy as students shared their progress.
A huge thank you to Mr. Reason and our many talented music tutors for their dedication and expertise. We also want to acknowledge the gently relentless encouragement from parents—your support for practice and perseverance makes all the difference. These afternoons were a true celebration of the courage to perform, the willingness to give it a go, and the smiles that came from conquering those many nerves.
Step Up Session and Looking Ahead to 2026
On Monday, our Junior Campus students took part in their Step-Up Session—a special time to meet their 2026 class teachers. These sessions calm the nerves, build connections, and remind children that moving up is exciting and that it’s all going to be OK. Transitioning to a new class, with a mix of familiar and new classmates and routines, is part of life’s challenges—and a great opportunity for growth.
Four Tips to Help Your Child Face These Changes:
- Talk positively about the move – Share your excitement and highlight the opportunities ahead.
- Listen to their feelings – Acknowledge any worries and reassure them that nerves are normal.
- Focus on friendships – Encourage them to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.
- Celebrate courage – Remind them that trying something new takes bravery, and you’re proud of them.
We know our children have what it takes, but if you feel extra TLC is needed, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your current class teacher who will be able to help.
Some of our rooms for 2026 are not quite ready yet, but I have my fingers crossed for the start of the year!
Looking Beyond Ourselves – ALWS Gifts of Grace
One of our highlights each year is looking beyond ourselves and raising money for the Australian Lutheran World Service – Gifts of Grace.
We are encouraging our students to look beyond themselves this festive season. In classes, students are learning about what it is like for others in different parts of the world.
We are using the Australian Lutheran World Service website and resources to develop empathy, understanding and compassion for less fortunate people. However, we don’t want to just listen and learn facts, we want to do something to help.
This year, if students and families feel inclined, each class will collect small donations to put towards a Gift of Grace. This might be chickens, bee hives, or seedlings depending on the donations provided.
Please note, there is no obligation to give but if you do, money can be handed into the office.
Wrapping up 2025! — End-of-Year Events
As we approach the final weeks of term, our calendar is brimming with exciting events and celebrations for our Junior Campus community. Here’s what’s coming up:
- Year 3 to Year 6 Swimming Carnival – Albany Creek Pool – Friday, 28 November
- New Student Orientation – Monday, 1 December
- Online Year 3 Strings Session – Monday, 1 December, 6PM
- Spanish Play – Tuesday, 2 December– Second Break in The Shed
- Prep Nativity – Wednesday, 3 December, 5PM in church
- Year 6 Celebration Service – Thursday, 4 December, 5:30PM in church
- POP Community Carols – Friday, 5 December, Junior Campus from 5PM
- Year 6 Celebration Day – Monday, 8 December
- Closing Chapel – Staff Nativity – Wednesday, 10 December, 1:40PM
It’s a full and festive finish to the year, and I couldn’t feel more grateful for the joy and community we share.
Be Blessed
Anne-Marie Schmidt
Head of Campus – Junior
Celebrating the Year 12 Graduates of 2025
The week was full of activities for them to enjoy as a cohort and give back to the Prince of Peace community. Students participated in celebratory events, such as the ‘dress as the first letter of your name day’, waterpark day, final Worship and Valedictory shared memories, and reflected on their journey through senior schooling. It was wonderful to see their gratitude expressed through acts of service and their commitment to finishing well. We wish our graduating class every success as they step into the next exciting chapter of their lives.
Final Year 12 ring the Ceremonial Bell
We congratulate our graduating class of 2025 and look forward to seeing the incredible paths they will take beyond our gates.
Year 12 & Prince of Peace Church Biscuit Blessings
Our Year 12 students joined with Prince of Peace Church for a special community initiative, decorating Christmas biscuits to spread joy and kindness. These beautifully decorated treats will be wrapped and donated to various local organisations, bringing a little sweetness to those in need this festive season. It was a wonderful opportunity for our graduating class to give back and share the spirit of Christmas with the wider community.
Year 12 Valedictory Celebration
Last week, we gathered as a community to honour and celebrate our graduating Year 12 students at the Valedictory Service. This special occasion was filled with heartfelt reflections, words of encouragement, and moments of gratitude as we acknowledged the achievements and contributions of our senior students throughout their time at Prince of Peace. Families, staff, and friends joined together to pray for and bless the Class of 2025 as they step confidently into the next chapter of their lives. We are incredibly proud of their resilience, character, and commitment, and we wish them every success for the future.
2025 College Yearbook
On Thursday 4 December in Pastoral Care, students will receive their 2025 College Yearbook. This special publication invites every member of our community, students, parents, teachers, and support staff, to pause and reflect on the year that has passed: its joys, challenges, milestones, and moments of growth.
As you turn the pages and revisit the stories and images captured within, may you be reminded of the strength of our community and feel inspired with hope for the year ahead.
Upcoming Events on the Senior Campus:
- Friday 28 November Years 7-11 Excellence of Effort Awards and Year 11 Jersey Presentation
- Tuesday 2 December Year 9 Ubuntu Return Ceremony
- Friday 5 December Last Day for Year 10 and 11 Students
- Friday 5 December PoP Community Christmas Carols
- Monday 9 December Year 9 Ubuntu Bushwalk
- Tuesday 10 December MSC Closing Chapel
- Tuesday 10 December Last Day for Years 7-9 Students
Blessings,
Coreta Lennon
Acting Head of Campus — Senior Campus
Middle & Senior Campus Sport
District Restructure 2026
After many years of planning, the Metropolitan North Representative School Sport region has approved a district restructure to commence in 2026. For our Senior Campus, this will mean a change of district from North West Independent back to North district which will align with our Junior Campus.
What this means for us is that we will once again, have district carnivals for Swimming, Cross Country and Track and Field. This will hopefully mean more students attending and participating in these sporting pathways.
I have already sent out some communication this term about trials for early in 2026. Please ensure you check SEQTA notices and DMs for this information.
Senior Campus Swimming Carnival 2025
Our annual Year 7–12 Swimming Carnival at the Albany Creek Leisure Centre was a fantastic celebration of school spirit and teamwork as students filled the pool deck with energy and enthusiasm, competing in a range of events from sprints to relays. We lucked out with the weather this year, and although it was quite hot, it was a perfect day for the carnival. It was wonderful to see so many students giving their best effort and cheering each other on throughout the day. Congratulations to all participants and a special thank you to staff and volunteers who made the event such a success. House pride was on full display, and the atmosphere was electric! What a great way to bring our community together.
There continues to be an increase in student numbers and overall engagement. The addition of novelty events throughout the day helps break but the competitive races, giving all students an opportunity to participate, have fun and stay involved.
Bradman took the honours on the day with a fairly commanding win. Fraser, Jackson and Laver filled the minor places.
Congratulations to all our swimmers, and especially those that were crowned Age Champions:
12 years – Lyla McCall and Astin Peterkin
13 years – Laura Larder and Thomas Doolan
14 years – Elizabeth Gooch and Liam Darben and Thomas Forbes-Schutz
15 years – Zarah Parsons and Lachlan Larder
16 years – Chloe Wheatley and Hannes Forbes-Schutz
17 years – Georgia Bean and Fletcher Morse
18 years – Bianca Rhind and Max Horgan
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
Middle & Senior Campus News from The Arts
Prince of Peace Community Carols
Please join our Prince of Peace Community for the carols this year on Friday 5 December at 5pm.
It speaks to the integrity of our students and their core Christian values, that we will have a significant team of MSC musicians sharing the fruits of their gifts and hard work at the PoP Community Carols next Friday night. Mindful of the priorities of ‘teen-dom’ the fact that students are not only prepared grudgingly but actually keen to come out after their last day of school for the year, and sing and make music with their classmates, speaks volumes. These are really special people.
Please join our Prince of Peace Community for the carols this year. This is a very special event celebrating one of the two core tenets of Christianity: the divine birth of Jesus.
We relish the opportunity to sing and rejoice with our extended families and friends. The littlest will be listening and learning.
Stay tuned for more…
Linda Brady
Curriculum Leader – The Arts on the Middle & Senior Campus
Worship
If you’d like more information on groups or events at Prince of Peace Church, please check out their website, or email office@princeofpeace.org.au.
PoP Community Carols!
It’s time to RSVP and pre-order food for our annual Carols event, coming up next Friday 5 December. Food starts from 5pm, with the festive program beginning from 6pm. Clicking here to preorder helps us with numbers and saves time on the night! We are also still in need of volunteers, especially for Friday afternoon setup, and ushers — some of these roles can be filled by teens as well! Click here to sign up. This event is proudly supported by the Brisbane City Lord Mayor’s Community Fund, and by City of Moreton Bay.
We’d love to see you at Prince of Peace Church — check out our website or social media pages to see what’s going on, and email office@princeofpeace.org.au with any questions!
Vacation Care December 2025 / January 2026
We wish to advise that we need to receive Vacation Care bookings by 5 December 2025. Bookings after this date will be subject to availability and be charged as casual bookings.
