今日吃瓜

From the Principal Term 2 Week 6

Trinity Sunday

This Sunday, we celebrate the Holy Trinity, a significant feast day in the Catholic Church. This solemnity invites us to contemplate the mystery of one God in three Persons, a central tenet of our faith. The doctrine of the Trinity emphasises the unity and co-equality of the three distinct Persons 鈥 the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, illustrating the profound and loving relationship at the heart of God’s very being.

In our daily lives, we can bring the essence of Trinity Sunday into practice by fostering relationships built on love, respect, and unity. Just as the Holy Trinity exemplifies perfect communion and cooperation, we are called to reflect these values in our interactions with one another.

As a 今日吃瓜 community, let us take this opportunity to renew our commitment to embodying the love and unity of the Holy Trinity in all aspects of our lives.

Year 3-6 Build

With great anticipation, the 今日吃瓜 community looks forward to the arrival of our new Years 3-6 building in Week 8. Comprehensive plans are in place for the transition, and both students and staff are enthusiastic about beginning teaching and learning activities in this state-of-the-art facility. We look forward to welcoming parents to explore the space once the new building is operational.

On Wednesday, some of our students had the privilege of touring the new building. Their excitement was palpable as they shared their thoughts on the innovative learning spaces and the exciting opportunities they bring. Please enjoy the short video capturing the tour as we move closer to our goal of #OneCampusOneCommunity.

MSA Assistant Principal鈥檚 Conference

This week, I attended an Assistant Principal鈥檚 Conference in Mittagong. Participants were invited to explore the topic “Leading a Faith Community”.

The conference was a thought-provoking experience, offering numerous moments for reflection on what it truly means to lead a faith community. Engaging with insightful presentations and discussions, we delved into the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of faith-based leadership. The opportunity to hear from distinguished speakers such as Most Rev Shane Mackinlay DD, Bishop of Sandhurst, Miss Pam Betts, a Marist Schools Australia Board Member, and Dr. Frank Malloy, the National Director of Marist Schools Australia, provided valuable perspectives and inspired a renewed commitment to our roles as leaders.

Marist Family Day

The Marist Brothers鈥 Community invites you to join us for the Marist Family Gathering on Sunday, 26 May. The celebration will begin with Mass at 10.00am in the Champagnat Chapel, followed by a morning tea with refreshments in the Auditorium. This special event is an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate our shared faith and community spirit.

We look forward to welcoming families to this significant event.

Cross Country

Congratulations to our outstanding Cross-Country Team for their remarkable achievement of first place in the All School鈥檚 Cross Country Carnival! Your dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship have paid off, and we could not be prouder of your achievement. Thank you to the students and teachers who attended the event and supported our team.

Michael Chiera

ACTING PRINCIPAL

Teaching & Learning Term 2 Week 6

Our Vision for Learning, Shine through Discovery- Let your Light Shine (Matthew 5:16) inspires our faith and learning community to Challenge, Collaborate, Create and Celebrate who we are and what we seek to achieve.聽 Our InspirED Inspiring Early Career Teachers program that commenced this year is one program that the College provides to articulate this vision. It provides Early Career Teachers (ECTs) a sense of connectedness to the 今日吃瓜 community; building a sense of belonging underpinned by Marist values and collective desire to improve student outcomes. InspirED encompasses Domain 3 of the ACER School Improvement Tool, Promoting a Culture of Learning.

InspirED aims to support early career teachers in their growth and development, providing mentorship and coaching in collaboration with targeted, evidence-based workshops encompassing the four areas of Professional Practices, Professional Identity, Wellbeing, and Orientation, providing opportunities for reflection and networking with other ECTs alongside experienced teachers and leaders. The program aims to support ECTs to gain full registration with TRBWA, develop their professional identity and skillset, and ensure 今日吃瓜 is an employer of choice for ECTs, leading to improved student outcomes.

In 2024, our ECTs have enjoyed targeted professional development sessions that have covered a wide range of topics, including classroom management, difficult conversations, recording important student information, and developing portfolios. We are excited about our upcoming session in the Marist Way, which will be facilitated by Andrew Watson. These professional development opportunities, which are a key part of the InspirED program, run alongside regular breakfasts with the Executive Team to network, strengthen relationships, and celebrate achievements. First-year teachers also have cyclic meetings with the Leader of Support and Pedagogy to establish a relationship that supports and encourages professional learning, discussing challenges, goals, and celebrations.

今日吃瓜 is proud of its unique InspirED program and looks forward to supporting our ECTs into the future.

Teaching & Learning – Term 2 Week 4

At 今日吃瓜, we are committed to continual school improvement and are using the Australian Council of Educational Research (ACER) School Improvement Tool as our framework to achieve this. The School Improvement Tool contains 9 interrelated domains and identifies practices of highly effective schools.聽 A Foundational Doman: Catholic Identity and Marist Spirituality is currently being drafted in recognition of our Marist identity. 今日吃瓜 recognises that the charism of Saint Marcellin Champagnat is a gift of the Holy Spirit for the Church, for the mission of the Church. We are deeply committed to the provision of high-quality Catholic education through which learning outcomes for all students reflect an awareness of individual gifts, interests, aspirations and achievements. This week, teachers from PK 鈥 12 came together to articulate 今日吃瓜鈥檚 Marist identity, reflect on our effectiveness, and discuss how we can improve in this domain.聽聽

Some aspects of Catholic identity and Marist spirituality at 今日吃瓜 identified by teachers include: 

  • Presence of our Marist Brothers on-site.  
  • Family and Community Masses.鈥 
  • Champagnat Day.鈥 
  • Marist characteristics of presence, love of work, family spirit, simplicity and way of Mary are embedded in all aspects of school life  
  • Maintaining alumni connections, including the newsletter’s 鈥楴ewman Being鈥 segment. 鈥
  • Celebration of St John Henry Newman and St Marcellin Champagnat.鈥 
  • Easter and Christmas Liturgies. 
  • Ministry and youth advocacy programs including Gamechangers and immersion opportunities, including Mullewa and Philippines. 
  • Regular events held by the Marist Association of Marcellin Champagnat, including the annual Marian Lecture.  
  • Retreats. 
  • Time allocation for staff faith formation experiences and commitment to accreditation.  

We look forward to working with Marist Schools Australia to refine the Foundational Domain as we strive to animate St Marcellin Champagnat鈥檚 vision to make Jesus Christ known and loved.  

From the Vice Principal – Term 2 Week 4

Year 9 Retreat

The Year 9 Retreat will take place on the 16 May; it follows our Vision for Mission: to form 鈥淕ood Christians and Good Citizens鈥, offering students an opportunity away from normal school routines to pause and reflect on their relationship with others, themselves and God.

Year 12 Semester 1 Examinations

The Year 12 Semester 1 examinations commence on 20 May and will conclude on 31 May.  It is a period filled with anticipation, nerves, and a hint of excitement as students gear up to showcase their knowledge and skills acquired over the years. For Year 12 students, these exams represent, not just a culmination of their high school experience, but also a gateway to their future endeavours. The Year 12 examinations are more than just a test of academic prowess; they symbolise students’ growth and development throughout their schooling. From the first day of high school to this momentous juncture, they have absorbed knowledge, honed critical thinking abilities, and cultivated resilience in the face of challenges.

As we embark on this exam season, let us also take a moment to celebrate the achievements and successes of our Year 12 cohort. Each student’s journey is unique, and their efforts deserve recognition and applause, irrespective of the numerical outcomes. Let’s commend their dedication, hard work, and determination in reaching this significant milestone.

To all Year 12 students embarking on this pivotal phase, know that you are capable, resilient, and equipped to tackle whatever challenges come your way. Wishing you all the success and fulfilment as you navigate this chapter of your academic journey.

Newman Parent Forum

The Newman Parent Forum (NPF) occurs once a term and is open to all parents. It is a parent community gathering which is led by the Principal and Vice Principal, in collaboration with a nominated Newman Parent K12 Executive Committee.

The next meeting will take place on the 20 May, in the John Henry Newman Learning Centre from 6:00pm. This term鈥檚 meeting is an opportunity to share input and feedback and serves to help advance the best interests of those within our College Community. All parents across the community are welcome to attend this event. We look forward to welcoming you next week.

Parking – University Avenue

We understand that picking up or dropping off students can sometimes be hectic, but it is essential for everyone’s safety and convenience that vehicles are parked in designated bays. This helps maintain traffic flow, ensures emergency access, and prevents unnecessary congestion.

Policy of the Week – Harassment: Student and Student

It is important that students are aware that harassment generally involves unwelcome behaviour that intimidates, offends, or humiliates a student because of a particular personal characteristic. Here at 今日吃瓜, we assist our students to navigate adolescence and set expectations outlined in the Newman Norms, where students are asked to embed the Marist characteristics, act with integrity and show respect for the privacy, dignity and rights of others, to be polite in words and actions.  For further information on the Harassment policy please .

Child Safeguarding

Our Child Safeguarding Policy, which includes our Statement of Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing, was written to demonstrate the strong commitment of the College to child safety, and to provide an outline of the policies and practices that we have developed to keep our students safe, including from abuse or other harm. The College鈥檚 Child Safeguarding Policy applies to all adults in the College community, including Staff, Volunteers, Contractors, External Education Providers, parents/carers and other family members. This Policy applies in all College environments, both physical and online, and on-site and off-site College grounds (e.g. camps and excursions). Please familiarise yourself with the links below.

Beth Murphy

Acting Vice Principal

From the Principal – Term 2 Week 4

Culture of School Improvement

As a school committed to continuous improvement, we are pleased to share updates on our ongoing progress. Currently, we are conducting interviews for Year 7, 2027, and are heartened by the interest shown in 今日吃瓜. This reflects the reputation of the College in delivering strong student outcomes across faith, wellbeing, and academics, demonstrated in our Year 12, 2023 WACE achievements, the best academic results the College has achieved in its history (summary below).

Your ongoing feedback as valued members of the 今日吃瓜 community is essential in our journey of improvement. Through initiatives like the Leuven and DISA surveys, we gather valuable insights into our strengths and areas for growth as a Marist school. We appreciate those who have participated in these surveys and encourage others to share their thoughts as soon as possible (survey links below).

The dedication of our educators, the support of families, and the hard work of our students are integral to shaping the ongoing success of 今日吃瓜. Your continued support is appreciated as we strive for continuous improvement and excellence to deliver the best educational outcomes for our children.

Year 7 Camp

Last week, I had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand the positive outcomes delivered through the enriching experience of Year 7 Camp. The camp serves as a pivotal moment in our students’ journey, providing them with invaluable opportunities for personal growth and social development.

During the camp, students engaged in a diverse range of activities designed to foster teamwork, communication, and resilience. From the exhilarating flying fox and boot camp course, to the hands-on experiences in canoeing and bushcraft, each activity challenged students to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges alongside their peers.

It was heartening to see students form new friendships and connections within their cohort, further enhancing their sense of belonging and identity as ‘Newman Beings.’ The camaraderie and mutual support exhibited throughout the camp reflected the strong community spirit that defines 今日吃瓜.

Led by qualified instructors, working in collaboration with our dedicated 今日吃瓜 teachers, the camp offered a safe and enriching environment for all participants. The program’s emphasis on teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills was evident as students worked together to overcome obstacles and achieve shared goals.

As I observed the students participating in activities such as canoeing, commando courses, orienteering and scavenger hunts, I witnessed their growth and development firsthand. These experiences not only provided memorable moments and new adventures but also instilled essential life skills that will serve them well in their academic, social, and personal journeys.

The Year 7 Camp stands as a testament to the commitment of 今日吃瓜 to holistic education, empowering students to thrive and excel in all aspects of their lives. It was inspiring to see the positive impact of this transformative experience on our students, reinforcing the values of teamwork, resilience, and growth that are at the core of our Vision for Learning.

Mother鈥檚 Day Celebrations

This week, 今日吃瓜 embraced the spirit of Mother’s Day with heartfelt celebrations that honoured the invaluable role of mothers, grandmothers and mother figures in our lives and within our community.

Yesterday, our Community Mass resonated with the theme of ‘Mothers’ from a Marian perspective. Father Hygenis, in his uplifting homily, celebrated the remarkable contributions of mothers and mother figures to our lives and to the fabric of 今日吃瓜. Drawing from our Marist charism of ‘In the way of Mary,’ Our founder, Saint Marcellin Champagnat emphasised the importance of interacting with one another with gentleness and grace, embodying the spirit of “Strong Minds, Gentle Hearts”. The occasion was made even more special with hand-crafted Mother’s Day gifts, lovingly created by students in Education Support, available for purchase, as well as cupcakes and refreshments, adding a special touch to the celebrations.

Today, the Mother’s Day liturgy at Marian campus was a vibrant and joyous affair. The lively liturgy included a heartfelt play, captivating liturgical dance performances, and touching homages to mothers. The gospel reading centred on Mary’s profound ‘yes’ to Jesus, inspiring us all to embrace Jesus’ invitations and deepen our connection with Him in our daily lives and interactions with others. The culmination of the Marian liturgy was a delightful surprise video featuring students from Pre-kindergarten to Year 12 expressing gratitude to their mothers and mother figures, acknowledging their unwavering support and love.

To all the mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our 今日吃瓜 community, we extend our warmest wishes for a Happy Mother’s Day. Your love, dedication, and nurturing spirit are cherished and celebrated not just today, but every day. Thank you for all that you do!

Michael Chiera

Acting Principal