Champagnat Day is one of the most significant celebrations in the life of our College. While the Mass, fete, and guild activities provide opportunities for fun and friendly competition, they also remind us of something much deeper: our identity as a Marist community.
At the heart of the Marist tradition is the characteristic of Family Spirit. St Marcellin Champagnat believed that schools should be places where people feel welcomed, valued, supported, and known. He wanted young people to experience a sense of belonging and community that reflected the love and care found within a family.
Each year, Champagnat Day brings this vision to life. Students from Kindergarten to Year 12, staff, parents, and students come together to celebrate not only the legacy of Marcellin, but also the relationships that make 今日吃瓜 so special. Whether gathered in prayer at Mass, supporting one another at the fete, or cheering on guilds during the ‘rhythm of the guilds鈥� competition, we are reminded that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.
As we celebrate the life and vision of St Marcellin Champagnat, may we continue to foster Family Spirit in our College, ensuring that Newman remains a place where every person feels at home, known by name, and encouraged to grow into the person God calls them to be.
Br Terry update
Last week, we shared with families on our social media an invitation to pray for Br. Terry, former principal of 今日吃瓜 and Marist Brother here in our community. It was so beautiful to see so many well wishes for Br Terry, especially from past students, staff, and families.
This week, Br Paul and I visited Terry to share with him some of the comments and memories that people had shared, which lifted his spirits greatly. At this time, we invite families to continue to keep Br Terry in their thoughts and prayers. It certainly means a lot to Terry and his family to know that he is in everyone鈥檚 prayers and that the community are with him in spirit.
Year 1 Excursion to Kings Park: STEM in the Outdoors
Our Year 1 students recently participated in an engaging excursion to Kings Park, where learning was brought to life through hands on STEM experiences in the natural environment. A highlight of the day was the investigation of the Kooyar Kep Wetland, known as Frog Water, where students explored the plants and animals that live in this unique ecosystem. Through observation and inquiry, they developed an understanding of how living things depend on their environment.
Students were guided to look closely at the wetland habitat, identifying features such as water plants, insect life and evidence of animal activity. They discussed how these living things rely on water, shelter and food sources to survive, linking their observations to classroom learning. The Kings Park storytelling session supported this experience, sharing a meaningful narrative about friendship and cooperation in nature, and helping students see how scientific understanding can connect to real life values and relationships.
During the STEM investigations, students explored the concept of sinking and floating through hands on experimentation. They made predictions, tested different natural materials and discussed their observations using simple scientific language. Working in small teams, students designed, built and tested their own boats using items such as sticks, bark and leaves. They were encouraged to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved, fostering critical thinking and collaboration skills while building confidence in problem solving.
Year 1R Assembly
Congratulations to Year 1R for their wonderful assembly presentation. Students confidently shared their learning about animals, including identifying key features such as body coverings, habitats and movement. They explained the differences between groups of animals, including mammals, reptiles and birds, demonstrating a strong understanding of the topic. Each student showed great courage in speaking in front of an audience, and their enthusiasm and pride in their learning were evident throughout the presentation. We were very proud of the way they supported one another and presented as a team.
Winter Music Night
Winter Music Night was a great success and a celebration of the rich musical talent within our school community. The evening began with an outstanding and energetic opening performance from our Lavalla Rock Band, which set a vibrant tone for the night. Our soloists then took to the stage, performing with confidence and showcasing their developing skills and musical expression.
The choirs and ensembles demonstrated excellent teamwork, listening skills and dedication, with each group delivering polished performances that reflected many hours of practice. The variety of performances ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy. It was wonderful to see students supporting one another and taking pride in sharing their talents.
Coffee Connect
Our Primary Leadership Team enjoyed a welcoming morning connecting with class parent representatives at Coffee Connect. This time together allowed for open conversation, the sharing of ideas and feedback, and continued strengthening of the partnership between school and families. The relaxed setting supported meaningful connections and encouraged a sense of community across year levels. We hope the coffee van was a valued addition and that families enjoyed the opportunity to gather and connect.
LifeLink Launch
Four of our Year 6 student leaders attended the LifeLink Launch at Corpus Christi and represented the College with pride, demonstrating maturity, respect and enthusiasm. During the event, they learned more about the important work of the agencies supported by LifeLink and the impact these organisations have within the wider community.
As part of their involvement, the students have been working collaboratively to create a video that highlights the work of these agencies and raises awareness of their mission. This process has developed their communication, teamwork and leadership skills, while also deepening their understanding of social responsibility. We look forward to viewing their final submission and celebrating their efforts.
State Sporting Representation
Congratulations to the following student for the state achievement in their sport:
Audrey Barnard (Year 6) who has been selected to represent Western Australia in the 2026 AFL 12s Girls Championship. This team will be competing at the School Sport Australia National Championships in Canberra, ACT from 2nd August 鈥� 9th August 2026.
State and National Representation is an honour and an important stepping stone in an athlete鈥檚 journey. We commend these students for their dedication and commitment to their sport. If your child has achieved state or national recognition in their sport or extra-curricular activity, we would love to hear about it so we can celebrate their success. Please let us know the details by filling out this form.
Mrs Laura Christopher
HEAD OF PRIMARY
School Reporting
Reports are one of the most important ways we communicate with parents about each child鈥檚 learning journey. Each semester, parents receive a formal school report that explains how each student is achieving against the Western Australian Curriculum standards. We understand that the language, grades, and structure of these reports can sometimes feel unfamiliar or raise questions, so we wanted to help make sense of everything.
In Western Australia, all government and non-government primary schools are required to follow the mandates of the School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA). SCSA is an independent statutory authority that oversees curriculum, assessment, and reporting for all WA students from Kindergarten to Year 12. At the heart of our reporting is the concept of an Achievement Standard. For each learning area and each year level, SCSA defines what a student is expected to know and be able to do by the end of that year. This is called the Achievement Standard, and it forms the benchmark against which work is assessed.
Importantly, a grade of C represents achievement at the standard 鈥� it means the student has met the expected level of knowledge and skill for their year. This is a genuine and significant achievement. As students move through the year levels, the Achievement Standards increase in complexity and sophistication, which means the bar is continually raised, and that is entirely by design. A grade of C is a positive outcome. It means your child is learning and achieving exactly what is expected of them at their year level. A grade changing between semesters does not necessarily mean your child has gone backwards it may simply reflect that the Achievement Standard has become more demanding as your child has moved through the year or into the next grade.
Teachers use multiple forms of evidence to arrive at a grade. This might include:
Written tasks and projects
Observations and practical demonstrations
Tests and quizzes
Oral responses and class contributions
Creative works
Assessment is ongoing throughout the semester. Teachers make professional judgements by comparing a student’s body of work against the SCSA Achievement Standard for their year level. This process, known as standards-referenced assessment, means grades reflect what a student can actually do 鈥� not how they compare to their classmates. To ensure consistency and fairness, teachers also engage in moderation 鈥� a process where teachers across the school review student work together and check that grades are being applied consistently against the same standard.
In reading your child鈥檚 report, it is important to remember that it reflects a comprehensive picture of their learning over time, not a single assessment or moment. Each grade represents careful consideration of the evidence available, aligned to the expectations for that stage of schooling. If you have any questions about your child鈥檚 progress or would like further clarification, we encourage open communication with your child鈥檚 teacher. Working together, we can continue to support each student鈥檚 growth and ensure a positive and successful learning journey.
Movement- Good for the Body and Nourishment for the Spirit
As we reflect on recent events of student celebration with highlights of the Primary Musical 鈥� Wizard of Oz, World Scholars Cup, ACC Inclusive Fun Run 鈥� Sue Bigelow Spirit Shield, Junior ACC and ACC Cross Country Carnivals and the Marist Netball Carnival, Bendigo, it just highlights the incredible value of movement, expression, competition and creativity in a young person鈥檚 life.
No child or adult commits to opportunities like those listed without facing the important concept of 鈥榮tretch鈥� – the notion of going safely beyond the margin of 鈥榯he known鈥� and 鈥榯he comfortable鈥�, to the experience of a little discomfort and uncertainty of outcome, but the reward of further personal growth, accomplishment and celebration.
Advocates of positive psychology discuss the three happinesses in some sense. Psychologist, Martin Selegman identifies the Pleasant Life, the Good Life and the Meaningful Life. Each are important and are satisfied in various ways. The Pleasant Life appreciates interaction and appreciation of nature. The Good Life challenges us to recognise we all have unique virtues and strengths we can lean into to nurture self-esteem and satisfaction for our unique self. The Meaningful Life brings depth of fulfilment when we use our strengths and virtues for a greater purpose beyond ourselves 鈥� for others.
Crafting away as a part of the cast and crew of The Wizard of Oz, collaborating and deep thinking in the moment of the World Scholars Cup, running as a part of the Cross Country teams or playing in the highly competitive Marist Netball Carnival are examples of being a part of a bigger thing and contributing to a deep sense of fulfilment for the group, as much as for the personal challenge, stretch and celebration on offer. The old saying applies here: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
We are extremely proud of our Newman students who compete, participate and play in the Co-Curricular Program. A huge congratulations to the cast, crew and staff of The Wizard of Oz, the students and mentor staff in The World Scholars Cup, the runners and coaches of the Inclusive (Education Support), JACC and ACC Cross Country Carnivals and the players and coaches of the Marist Netball team. Our Netball Team reached a height the College has not had in this Carnival for many years; we were Runner-Up in the Challenger Shield to Red Bend College, Forbes.
I encourage you to read further into this edition of the Newsletter to hear about the whole College recognition of National Reconciliation Week, Game Changers Retreat and the National Simultaneous Storytime event in Lavalla. Wishing you all a wonderful fortnight ahead.
This fortnight has been a wonderful celebration of the diverse talents and achievements of our students, from champion runners to shining stars on the stage.
The Wizard of Oz
Our Newman community was truly dazzled by the outstanding performances in The Wizard of Oz musical. With 115 primary students involved, the production was a remarkable showcase of creativity, confidence and teamwork. The excitement leading up to the performance was evident and an extraordinary amount of effort went into preparation by both students and staff. A sincere thank you to Mrs Wynne, as well as the dedicated staff and supportive parents who made this production possible. It was a joyous experience watching our students shine and delight in their success as the curtain fell.
Cross Country
On the sporting field, a number of our Year 3鈥�6 students represented Newman at the Junior ACC Cross Country. They again demonstrated the depth of talent within our school, alongside exemplary sportsmanship. Many of our runners achieved top 20 finishes, with special congratulations to Jack Macri (1st, Year 4), Harry Bluff (3rd, Year 4), Archer Johnson (1st, Year 3) and Nicolas Cameron (3rd, Year 3). We also celebrate the success of both our Year 3 and Year 4 boys鈥� relay teams, who placed first. Overall, 今日吃瓜 achieved an impressive 2nd place shield, an outstanding result.
National Simultaneous Storytime
Our ECE classes also enjoyed National Simultaneous Story-time, where they were engaged by special guest readers sharing this year鈥檚 book, Luna Roo. This annual event is an important part of promoting literacy and a love of reading, bringing children across the country together to share the same story at the same time. The story of Luna Roo reinforced the importance of self-belief and perseverance, messages that strongly support the growth of our young learners.
As always, we appreciate your support in helping keep our students safe, two of everyone鈥檚 favourite topics, playgrounds and parking. A reminder that students are not permitted to use the playground or swings before or after school, even when supervised by parents, as this ensures the safety of all students. Parking continues to require our attention. Please avoid parking on verges or in undesignated bays and remember that patience is essential during busy times. We have had instances of cars being blocked in and some near misses, so your cooperation in keeping our community safe is greatly appreciated.
Earlier this year we provided families with the school holiday break between Term 2 and Term 3, which from 2027 onwards will be 3 weeks. We have now finalised all Term Dates for 2027 and we are pleased to provide these to families for their planning. To view click here.
Traffic Warden 鈥� Mantua Crescent/ Tuscany Way
The Traffic Warden who works at the Children鈥檚 Crossing on Tuscany Way, near Manutua Crescent is unable to work between Monday 8 June, and Thursday 2 July (remainder of the term). The crossing unit have been unable to find relief staff to cover this absence.
If your child using this crossing, please remind them to take care, and if you use this road in the mornings and afternoons please be vigilant and allow students to cross.
Newman Parents Forum 鈥� Monday 8 June
The Term 2 Newman Parents Forum (NPF) is scheduled to take place this Monday 8 June in the John Henry Newman Hub. All families are invited to attend in person or online via . The agenda for the evening is available
Champagnat Day
Saturday 6 June marks the Feast Day of St Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers and of Marist Education. The Feast Day of St Marcellin Champagnat is an opportunity to gather with other Marist schools across Australia and throughout the world to give thanks, and to celebrate our shared Marist identity. Our Kindergarten to Year 12 College community will celebrate Champagnat Day on Friday 19 June with Mass/Liturgy, our annual Champagnat Day Awards, Fete activities and the inaugural 鈥淩hythm of Guilds鈥� competition.
Attendance on this day is compulsory for all students, and active participation in all aspects of the day is expected. Students are required to attend Mass in order to participate in the Fete. Students arriving to school during or after Mass will not be permitted to attend the Fete and will be supervised for private study. Should your child have an appointment on the day it is recommended that this is rescheduled.
