NewsBites - Term 4, Week 9, 2025
With the school year official finished, I want to sincerely thank all members of the Faith community for the many ways you have enriched our College throughout the year. Each person, relationship, and contribution has helped shape and strengthen our community, and I am deeply grateful for all that you have shared within the Faith family.
To our students: thank you for bringing your authentic selves to school each day, striving to grow, and supporting those around you. Your kindness and care allow God’s grace to shine through every phase of learning and in all aspects of College life.
To our families: thank you for the privilege of partnering with you as we help your young people discover and share their God-given potential. The strength of each partnership between the College and our families is foundational to every child’s growth and success, allowing each one to truly flourish.
To our staff: thank you for your dedication, creativity, and compassion. You embody true vocation – teaching students first, and subjects second. You are the heart of our College, and I am deeply grateful for all that you do.
While I could easily fill pages reflecting on the many achievements and special moments that have taken place at Faith this year, I instead wish to focus on one particular event held earlier this week: the official Turning of the Sod for our new primary school.
This event took place before school on Wednesday morning, when friends, families, and founders of Faith Lutheran College gathered to give thanks to God and to the many people who have contributed to bringing the vision of a primary school at Faith to life. As construction of the new school begins, we were reminded during the service that buildings are only as good as the people who occupy them. Thankfully, we are incredibly blessed by the people who serve and continue to serve and enrich our College community.
Thank you to all who have contributed through your prayers, partnership, and ongoing support, ensuring that Faith Lutheran College continues to serve the present and future needs of our students, families, and staff.
A special thank you also to the friends and family members connected to the Scheiwe family, who originally owned the property on which our College now stands. It was wonderful to share this milestone with you. Just as your family participated in the original Turning of the Sod more than 25 years ago, it was a joy to see members across generations mark this new beginning.
Finally, I pray that everyone enjoys a safe and blessed holiday break. As we celebrate the birth of Christ, may this Christmas season bring rest, renewal, and opportunities to reconnect – with friends, family, and with Christ Himself.
Every blessing to you all this Christmas. I look forward to reconnecting with you in 2026.
Yours in Christ,
Tyson Kenny
Acting Principal
Mastering Parent Engagement at the College
Hebrews 10:24–25. ‘And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near’
Over the past two years, the College has partnered with Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) through the Mastering Parent Engagement project. This initiative is grounded in our belief that strong school communities rely not only on clear communication, but on genuine, two-way relationships and partnership with parents and carers. While sharing information will always matter, our focus has shifted toward truly engaging with families - seeking your insights, valuing your feedback, and inviting you into the conversations that help shape the College.
This shift has meant rethinking how we connect with families and creating more opportunities for authentic collaboration. True engagement goes beyond updates and guidelines; it involves making space for parent voices to influence policies, programs, and student opportunities. It is about listening, responding meaningfully, and building ongoing dialogue rather than relying on one-off consultations.
Throughout this project, we hope you have noticed a stronger focus on partnering with parents and carers across many aspects of College life. Over the past two years, we have invited families into conversations about key policies, student pathways, and the planning of guest speakers, and major College events. We have also sought more opportunities to welcome parents onto campus through events such as the Mother's and Father's Days, Faith Festival, the Exploration to Graduate Phase Transition Evening, and the recent Foundation Phase Showcase. These moments of collaboration and connection have been invaluable, leading to richer and more authentic outcomes for our students.
We have continued to diversify the ways families can connect, recognising that engagement looks different for everyone. Whether through surveys, focus groups, informal conversations, or representative groups, your voice has remained central in shaping our shared direction.
As we look ahead to 2026, our commitment to meaningful and authentic engagement remains strong. The insights and experiences of our parents and carers make our College more responsive and better aligned with the needs of the young people we serve. Thank you for your involvement so far - we look forward to continuing to build a community where every voice is welcomed, respected, and reflected in the work we do.
Reid Dobson
Deputy Principal
2026 Private Music and Dance Tuition
Faith Lutheran College is excited to announce that private music and dance lessons will return in 2026, offering students the opportunity to develop their skills with specialist tutors.
Lessons will be available across a wide range of instruments, including dance, singing, guitar, piano, woodwind, brass, and percussion. This program aims to support students’ growth, confidence, and creativity through tailored one-on-one or small group instruction in the performing arts.
We are currently gathering expressions of interest to assist with planning for next year. If your child is interested in participating, please complete the expression of interest form by clicking here.
Uniform Shop Holiday Hours
The Uniform Shop will be open for walk-in appointments on the following days and times in early 2026:
- Tuesday 13 January - 10am to 4pm
- Thursday 15 January - 10am to 4pm
- Saturday 17 January - 11am to 1pm
- Tuesday 20 January - 10am to 4pm
- Thursday 22 January - 10am to 4pm
- Friday 23 January - 9am to 4pm
Carols and Christmas Services
Last Friday, our Foundation Phase Precinct came alive with colour, energy and creativity as students, families, and staff gathered for our annual Foundation Festival. The event was a celebration of the learning, growth and curiosity that has shaped our Year 7 and Year 8 students throughout the year.
Across our spaces, guests explored an impressive array of student work on display, work that students felt proud to show to our community. From inquiry projects and prototypes to artworks, written pieces and digital creations. These displays highlighted not only what students have produced, but the thinking, collaboration and perseverance behind each unit.
With the addition of our new outdoor area between E and F-blocks, our young performers shone on ‘stage’. Audiences were treated to dynamic live podcast segments developed in Year 8 English, where students confidently unpacked topics related to basketball starts, the upcoming social media ban and school rules. A thoughtful drama skit showcased the creative talents emerging from Year 7. We also had Levi serenade the crowd with an instrumental piano piece throughout the event.
Out on the oval, the atmosphere was just as energetic. Students led interactive HPE workshops that gave families a glimpse into this term’s learning. This included Year 8 students who demonstrated their understanding of Indigenous games, while Year 7 showcased skills from their oval sports unit. Laughter, teamwork and friendly competition filled the space as guests joined in the fun.
Lastly, thank you to our dedicated Foundation Phase teachers for guiding students through their learning, and to our families for your ongoing support. Most importantly, congratulations to our students! You brought the festival to life with pride, creativity and joy and we already cannot wait for next year’s festival.
Eunize Mallari
Head of Learning - Foundation 8
What an Amazing Year!
As we reach the end of Term 4, it’s hard not to be proud of what an incredible year this has been. From the very first day to now, our students have embraced every challenge and opportunity with enthusiasm, creativity, and resilience.
This semester has been packed with hands-on learning and unforgettable experiences. We’ve seen rockets launched, robots built, and delicious dishes cooked as part of practical assessments. Our students have debated big ideas, explored new perspectives, and strengthened their self-regulation skills.
Curriculum highlights have been inspiring. Pre-Ag Science students took learning beyond the classroom raising cattle, visiting a local dairy, and selling at Moreton Saleyards before crunching the numbers on gross margins. Detective Investigations challenged students to think critically as they solved complex cases and presented evidence like real investigators. Meanwhile, Real Estate Matters gave students a taste of the property world, from appraisals to marketing strategies, blending theory with practical skills. These are just a few examples; our students have explored so many more subjects this year! Over the holidays, we encourage them to share their learnings and experiences with family and friends.
Projects have also shone brightly this year. From Crafting the Magic creating outdoor benches for our campus, to Students for Students designing a mural for a local kindy, and Cultivating Reconciliation sharing seedlings with the community - our service groups have made a real impact. Public Art students contributed beautiful pieces to the Laidley Community Centre and our new administration building, while Cooking for a Cause kept us well-fed during events. These initiatives reflect the heart of Faith: service, creativity, and connection.
We celebrated these achievements at our Awards Nights, recognising outstanding academic success and personal growth. Special mention goes to students who excelled in Year 11 subjects while still in Year 9 and 10. A testament to their dedication and the opportunities available here.
As we head into the Christmas season, let’s cherish these moments and look forward to an exciting new year. May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter, and family time. Amid the festive fun, let’s remember the true meaning of Christmas: Jesus is the reason for the season. His message of hope and love is what makes this time so special.
Thank you for being part of this amazing journey. Stay safe, enjoy the celebrations, and we’ll see you in 2026 for another year of growth and discovery!
Sam Loxley
Head of Learning - Exploration Phase
Welcoming Our New Year 11s & Strengthening Our 2026 Senior Cohort
As the school year comes to a close, our Graduate Phase has been filled with connection, leadership, and meaningful new beginnings. With our 2025 graduates now farewelled, we are excited to turn our focus to the 2026 seniors and our new Year 11 students who joined the Graduate Phase this fortnight.
This period has been rich with opportunities for leadership, community, and growth - a wonderful launchpad into the year ahead.
2026 Seniors Leading With Purpose
Over the past two weeks, our 2026 seniors have stepped proudly into their leadership journey.
Leadership Incursion with Unleashing Personal Potential
This week, our 2026 seniors engaged in a powerful leadership incursion facilitated by Unleashing Personal Potential.
Through reflection, team challenges, and leadership coaching, students explored what it means to lead authentically, influence positively, and unite as a cohort. Their maturity, honesty, and willingness to step into responsibility were outstanding.
Leading Phase Coach & House Dodgeball Competition
Recently, our 2026 seniors took the reins during Phase Coach, coordinating community-building activities including a very competitive House Dodgeball Tournament. Their leadership, creativity, and enthusiasm set a positive tone for their senior year.
Preparing the 2025 Retreat Gift
Behind the scenes, our 2026 seniors worked together to create a thoughtful Retreat gift video for the 2025 cohort — a meaningful and creative expression of care that as warmly received by our graduating cohort at their Year 12 Retreat.
This group continues to demonstrate warmth, initiative, and genuine community spirit.
Welcoming Our New 2026 Year 11 Graduate Phase Students
This fortnight marked two major milestones for our new Year 11s joining the Graduate Phase:
Transition to Graduate Phase Evening
Students and families gathered for a memorable evening that blended celebration, reflection, and anticipation.
With guest speakers, a symbolic burning ceremony, and shared family connection time, it marked the official beginning of their senior learning journey.
Leadership & Connection Camp
The following day, students headed to their Leadership & Connection Camp, where they collaborated through challenges, strengthened relationships, and set the foundation for a united and supportive senior cohort in 2026.
Their engagement was exceptional — we are excited for all that this group will bring to the Graduate Phase.
Important Reminders for Graduate Phase Families
Holidays During Term Time – preparation for 2026 and beyond
Family holidays during term time are strongly discouraged in the Graduate Phase.
Assessment occurs throughout every term, and family holidays are not grounds for an AARA, especially in Year 12. Consistent attendance is essential for academic success, wellbeing, and future pathways.
Staff Update
We extend our warmest wishes to Mrs Andrea Blakely, who is taking Long Service Leave in Semester 1. During her leave, Mrs Danielle Thompson will join Mrs Emma Saal in the Graduate Phase Wellbeing space. Families with wellbeing queries over the holiday break are welcome to contact Mrs Emma Saal directly.
A Christmas Blessing & Looking Ahead to 2026
As we enter the Christmas season, we pray that it brings rest, joy, and connection for all our Graduate Phase families.
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.”
— Romans 15:13
We cannot wait to continue our journey with the 2026 seniors and new Year 11 cohort next year.
May their final school years be filled with growth, gratitude, purpose, and strong community.
Andrea Blakely and Emma Saal
Heads of Wellbeing – Graduate Phase
