Volleyball is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing sports at ֱ, with excitement and enthusiasm building across the College community as students set their sights on the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup this December on the Gold Coast.
Last week, our Gold Coast Volleyball teams officially began their journey, hitting the court for the first time as they prepare for months of training, competition and teamwork. From the very first session, it’s clear that something special is beginning to take shape at ֱ, with every team bringing extraordinary energy, commitment and team spirit to the court.
Adding to the excitement is the exceptional calibre of coaching supporting our students, we have Shelby Maher, captain of the Super League winning Perth Steel, leading the coaching program. Shelby has been heavily involved with Volleyball WA at an elite level as both a player and coach, and brings a wealth of experience, expertise and genuine passion to the program.
Over the years, Shelby and Miss Kononen have developed a formidable volleyball partnership, guiding teams to the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup on multiple occasions, with one of those remarkable journeys seeing one team advance all the way to the Gold Medal Match.
“Schools Cup was one of the highlights of my time at school,” Shelby said. “It is such an incredible experience because it is about so much more than volleyball. You build friendships, confidence and memories that stay with you long after the tournament ends. I am really excited to help the students grow as players, enjoy the journey and create those same experiences together.”
In a truly wonderful full circle moment, fellow coach Lucie Wilcox was once coached by Shelby herself and was part of the team that reached the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup grand final. Now, the pair stand side by side on the coaching bench, inspiring and guiding the next generation of ֱ volleyball players with firsthand knowledge of what it takes to compete at the highest level.
While there is still plenty of hard work ahead, the early signs are incredibly promising. The dedication, enthusiasm and culture already developing within this program is something the entire College community can be immensely proud of.
This is only the beginning of the journey, but one thing is already certain — ֱ is well and truly making its mark on the volleyball map, and the best is still to come.
It has been another busy and rewarding period in our school, with students engaging in a wide range of academic, sporting and creative pursuits. It is wonderful to see our students’ embracing opportunities, striving for excellence and representing our school community with pride.
We are pleased to share several recent highlights that reflect the talent, dedication and enthusiasm of our students.
Da Vinci Decathlon
A number of our Year 5 and Year 6 students recently participated in the Da Vinci Decathlon, an academic competition inspired by the multidisciplinary work of Leonardo da Vinci. This challenging event encourages both creativity and critical thinking across a variety of disciplines. We are delighted to announce that our Year 6 team achieved First Place in the Creative Producers category, an outstanding accomplishment that showcases their collaboration and innovation.
School Sports WA Cross Country
This week, a number of our Year 3 to Year 6 students competed in the School Sport WA Cross Country Competition. Our runners performed exceptionally well, and it was clear that their training through Run Club has had a positive impact. A special congratulations to Archer Johnson (Year 3), who won the Year 3 race at an impressive pace. We are incredibly proud of all students who participated, particularly for the determination and sportsmanship they demonstrated throughout the event.
Looking ahead, we are excited for next week’s Primary Musical performances. A significant amount of time, effort and enthusiasm has gone into this production from both staff and students, and we are very much looking forward to celebrating their hard work with our community.
Over the past two weeks, we have also enjoyed two engaging and lively assemblies. Year 2 Red entertained us with a vibrant performance of George’s Marvellous Medicine, while Year 1 Green delighted the audience by showcasing their learning through The Gruffalo. These presentations highlight the confidence and creativity of our students and are always a valued part of our school program.
Thank you for your continued support as we celebrate these achievements together.
Last week, our Year 10 students headed out on the annual camp at Manjedal Adventure Centre in Karrakup.
Nestled in the Jarrah forest midway between Byford and Jarrahdale, Manjedal Adventure Centre provided the perfect backdrop for challenge and adventure. The journey-style program pushed students in the best possible way. Carrying all their essentials in backpacks, cooking on camp stoves, and setting up and packing down their tents each morning, students quickly discovered what they were capable of. Daily activities — including hiking, high ropes and team-challenge exercises — tested them physically and mentally, while each evening’s debriefs and reflections gave them space to process their experiences and grow.
During the camp, students had the opportunity to build leadership, self-management, resilience, and personal independence — skills that will serve them well as they navigate the daily challenges of life. The program also provided meaningful time for students to reflect on their relationship with self, others and creation.
We are very proud of every student who stepped outside their comfort zone, supported their peers, and embraced every moment. Thank you to the staff who accompanied our students and to Adventure Works for delivering such a meaningful program.
Well done, Year 10 — you were outstanding!
Bus Travel and SmartRiders
The College has been made aware that a significant number of students are travelling on school buses without a SmartRider, and that many students who do have a SmartRider are not tagging on and off for their trips.
If your child has a valid Student SmartRider, they can travel free on Transperth Monday to Friday during the school year, provided they tag on and tag off for every trip. Tagging on and off is essential — it helps Transperth understand how many students are using the service, so enough buses can be scheduled to get everyone to and from school safely and on time.
Please note that students travelling without a SmartRider will need to pay the fare for the travel. In addition, an infringement may also be issued.
Please remind your child of the following important rules for bus travel:
Tag on at the front door only — tagging on at a centre or rear door will result in a default fare being charged
Tag off at any door when exiting
Replacement SmartRiders
If your child has lost or damaged their SmartRider, a replacement can be ordered through Student Reception at a cost of $5.00, payable at the time of ordering. Payment can be made by EFTPOS at Student Reception or by card over the phone. Please note that the College no longer accepts cash payments.
We appreciate your support in ensuring your child travels safely and in accordance with Transperth requirements.
Upcoming Events
National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week
On Tuesday 26 May, ֱ will come together as a whole school — from Pre-Primary to Year 12 — to mark National Sorry Day and the beginning of National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June).
Our Primary students will lead the College in a short assembly, followed by a whole-College handprint activity where senior students and their Primary buddies will create a united College display — a symbol of our shared commitment to reconciliation and a more just and equitable future.
Examination Timetable
As we progress through Term 2 are Year 10, 11 and 12 students prepare for their first set of Examinations for the year. Exam timetables are linked below:
State Sporting Representation
Congratulations to the following student for the state achievement in their sport:
Marcus Lark (Year 8) and William McGrath (Year 8) were selected to represent UWA Water Polo in the Under‑14 State Team, competing at this year’s Australian Youth Championships (AYC) in Brisbane. The tournament featured 25 teams from across Australia and New Zealand, providing a highly competitive environment. Both students performed strongly throughout the competition, making a meaningful contribution to the team’s overall performance.
Jackson Paytner (Year 12) has been selected in the School Sports WA team to compete in the 13-19 National Swimming Championships in Victoria in July.
Ashlee Kruger (Year 10) and Torah Wellman (Year 10) have been selected in the School Sports WA 15s Hockey Team, competing in the National Championships in Melbourne in July.
Otis Keane (Year 9) has been selected in the School Sports WA Australian Football 14s to compete in the National Schoolboy Championships in Melbourne in July.
State and National Representation is an honour and an important stepping stone in an athlete’s 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 Anna Scanlan
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL SECONDARY
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 10
Year 11 prerequisites for 2027
Year 10 students and families have now received the prerequisites for Year 11 subjects at ֱ for 2027. This is to allow for goal-setting in time for the Semester 1 Year 10 report. Prerequisites for Year 11 2027 can found here.
A summary of the different pathway options for Year 11 and 12 can be found here.
In Term 2, all Year 10 students will commence their subject selection research, in preparation for Year 11 2027.
Future Doctors Program
The Future Doctors Program is a 4-day program that provides young people with an opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
Perth sessions are available in July 2026 and January 2027.
More information and costs here:
Career conversations for parents
The WA Government offers a suite of free resources to assist parents and guardians with starting career-related conversations. Families can access them .
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 11
Selecting Year 12 subjects
Please see below a summary of the rules for selecting subjects in Year 12, 2027:
Students who select a Year 12 ATAR subject must have achieved at least 50% in that ATAR subject in Year 11.
Students who select a new Year 12 ATAR subject in Year 12 (not having studied that subject in Year 11) will be required to seek permission.
Students with a predicted ATAR of less than 70 will not be permitted to continue the ATAR Pathway in Year 12.
Students who have an ‘E’ grade in a Year 11 General subject will not be permitted to re-select that General subject in Year 12.
For students wishing to enter the UniReady or UniPath Programs in Year 12:
If coming from the ATAR Pathway in Year 11, students must have passed at least 4 Year 11 subjects.
If coming from the General Pathway in Year 11, students must have a ‘B’ grade or better in at least 4 Year 11 subjects, including English.
Future Doctors Program
The Future Doctors Program is a 4-day program that provides young people with an opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
Perth sessions are available in July 2026 and January 2027.
More information and costs here:
Alternatives to University
Did you know that University is not the only place you can obtain a degree? There are several alternatives here in Perth:
SAE: Offers degrees in things like Animation, Audio, Game Development, Creative Industries.
ACAP: Offers degrees in things like Psychology, Criminology, Social Work.
EIT: Offers degrees in Engineering, IT, and Renewable Energy.
For students thinking of attending University
TISC has a series of videos explaining things like ATAR calculation, prerequisite subjects, scaling, and preferences. You can find them here:
Here is a parents guide to University:
And here is the “First in Family” resource, for students who might be the first in their family to attend University:
Are you thinking of attending a University Open Day? Dates are below. This blog might help you: or this one:
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 12
Key dates for TAFE and University applications for 2027
For those students applying for TAFE for 2027, applications will open in September of this year and close in November of this year. You will be advised of this at the time.
For those students applying for University for 2027, early applications (early offers) will open in June and you will have until mid-December to lodge your application. Closer to the time you will be provided with instructions and further information about applying.
Year 12s are welcome to come and collect (and keep) any of the University handbooks that are on the table near my office. These can be very helpful in making your choice.
Alternatives to University
Did you know that University is not the only place you can obtain a degree? There are several alternatives here in Perth:
SAE: Offers degrees in things like Animation, Audio, Game Development, Creative Industries.
ACAP: Offers degrees in things like Psychology, Criminology, Social Work.
EIT: Offers degrees in Engineering, IT, and Renewable Energy.
Applying for Medicine or Dentistry or Veterinary Science for 2027
All students who wish to enrol in Medicine or Dentistry in 2027 (including Assured Pathway at UWA and Notre Dame) will need to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) this year.
Please see below for some important dates:
3 March 2026: UCAT bookings open
15 May 2026: Deadline to book your UCAT for 2026
12 June 2026: Deadline if you need to cancel your UCAT booking
1 July 2026: UCAT testing begins
5 August 2026: Last test date
September 2026: Results available
You can check for further information, practice tests, and tips to succeed. It is recommended to book a UCAT as early as possible as demand for testing places is high.
UWA The official handbook for entry to Medicine at UWA can be found and Dentistry . Please note that Medicine and Dentistry at UWA are postgraduate courses and require completion of a relevant Bachelor degree prior to entry. Curtin Curtin University offers the only direct entry medical program in Western Australia. In 2025, the cutoff ATAR for this course was 93.
In addition to the UCAT, students considering applying for Medicine at Curtin University are also required to sit the CASPER Test. Further information about CASPER can be found here: and here:
The official handbook for entry to Medicine at Curtin can be found
University of Notre Dame The University of Notre Dame offers a small number of places in postgraduate Medicine via an assured pathway for school leavers. Information about this option can be found here:
Veterinary Science
Students wishing to enter Veterinary Science at Murdoch will need to undertake the Casper testing during 2026, by June at the latest. Further information can be found here:
Applying for Notre Dame UniPath for Semester 2, 2026
Notre Dame runs an entry program called UniPath. Completing UniPath will give you an ATAR of 70, which can then be used for entry to University courses at Curtin / ECU / Murdoch / Notre Dame. Students doing UniPath attend Notre Dame’s Fremantle campus one day per week for 12 weeks.
If you would like to enrol in UniPath for Semester 2, you can do so here in the “How to apply – UniPath” section:
Future Doctors Program
The Future Doctors Program is a 4-day program that provides young people with an opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
Perth sessions are available in July 2026 and January 2027.
More information and costs here:
Law Start Program
Are you interested in studying Law at University but not likely to meet the ATAR requirements? In that case, you can apply for Murdoch University’s Law Start Program. All you need is a B grade in one ATAR subject that has a strong focus on communication and essay writing (eg English, Literature, History, Politics & Law). More information at:
University information
TISC has a series of videos explaining things like ATAR calculation, prerequisite subjects, scaling, and preferences. You can find them here:
Are you the first person in your family to attend University? This might assist:
Here are some useful tools to prepare students for the transition to University:
Here is a parents guide to University:
This resource is a place where you can ask current University students questions about their University courses:
University scholarships
Curtin University
Edith Cowan University (ECU)
Murdoch University
Notre Dame University
University of Western Australia (UWA)
Christian Leaders Scholarship
Gap year information
Students interested in taking a gap year in 2027 might find the following interesting:
Defence Force Gap Year:
And:
Also this Marist volunteering opportunity:
UPCOMING CAREERS EVENTS
EVENT
HOSTED BY
DATE
LINK
Open Day
Murdoch University
23 May
Open Day
Curtin University
24 May
Army Reserve Information Session
Defence Force
26 May
Teaching Degrees Information Session
ECU
26 May
Year 12 Application Support
Curtin University
27 May
Defence Force: Trade Careers Info Session
Defence Force
28 May
Year 10 Parent Information Evening
ECU Joondalup
2 June
Year 11 and 12 Information Evening
Murdoch University
3 June
Year 12 Applications Support Session
UWA
4 June
Fremantle Dockers Sports / Business Programs 2027
SEDA
10 June
Engineering Open Evening
ECU Joondalup
11 June
Perth Wildcats Sport / Business Programs 2027
SEDA
17 June
ֱ Careers Expo / Year 10 Parent Information Evening
ֱ
23 June
3.30pm to 4.30pm: Year 11 and 12 Careers Expo5pm to 6pm: Year 10 Careers / subjects Expo6pm to 6.45pm: Year 10 Parent Info Session
Computer Science Information Evening
SAE University College
24 June
Electrical Careers Open Day
College of Electrical Training
27 June
Year 12 Information Session
ECU
30 June
Year 12 Application Support Session
Murdoch University
28 July
Open Day
ECU City Campus
9 August
Year 12 Information Evening
Murdoch University
20 October
Open Day
SAE University College
15 August
Fremantle Dockers Sports / Business Programs 2027
SEDA
19 August
Perth Wildcats Sport / Business Programs 2027
SEDA
26 August
Computer Science and Cybersecurity Information Evening
ECU Joondalup
1 September
Teaching Degrees Information Session
ECU
7 September
If you are thinking of attending a University Open Day, this link might help you get the most out of it:
This week provided another wonderful opportunity to reflect on the enduring legacy of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, who was born on 20 May 1789 in Marlhes, France. Through his vision for education and his commitment to young people, particularly those most in need, Marcellin established the Marist Brothers in 1817. His values of family spirit, service and presence continue to shape life at ֱ today. A beautiful example of this spirit can be seen in the legacy gift left by our graduating Year 6 Class of 2025. We are delighted to now see that vision beginning to flourish through the development of our new student garden space. The current Year 6 students collaborated to research, design and plan what would be planted in each space, while our Kindergarten and Pre-Primary students joyfully began planting seeds and seedlings, learning valuable lessons about sustainability, teamwork, responsibility and caring for the environment.
Our students have also been busy embracing academic challenges beyond the classroom through their participation in the Da Vinci Decathlon. Students from Years 5–10 competed across a range of disciplines including Engineering, Mathematics, Science, English, Art and Poetry, Cartography, Chess, Creative Producers and Code Breaking. The competition provided students with an opportunity to showcase creativity, collaboration and critical thinking while working together in teams under pressure. We congratulate all students involved for the enthusiasm and determination they demonstrated throughout the event. A special congratulations goes to our Year 6 team, who achieved first place in Creative Producers, and to our Year 7 team, who placed third in Cartography.
Over the past few weeks, our Year 11 Outdoor Education students have undertaken their hiking expedition in Denmark. Throughout the experience, students were challenged both physically and mentally as they developed their navigation, campcraft, teamwork and resilience skills in an authentic outdoor environment. Our Year 12 ATAR Outdoor Education students also recently completed a four-day paddling expedition through the stunning waters of Shark Bay and Cape Peron. The expedition provided students with the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge in a real-world setting while building independence, perseverance and collaboration.
Experiential learning opportunities such as these are a vital part of the Outdoor Education program, allowing students to grow through challenge, connection and reflection beyond the classroom. We thank our Outdoor Education staff for their dedication, expertise and care in providing these rich and memorable learning experiences for our students.
ֱ Parents Forum
The ֱ Parents Forum for Term 2 is scheduled to take place on Monday 8 June in the John Henry ֱ Learning Hub. Parents and guardians are invited to join online or in person from 6.00pm. Click here to view for the meeting.
Parking Regulations
A reminder that the City of Stirling is active in monitoring parking compliance surrounding the College and will issue infringements where these regulations are not met. Families are asked to utilise the established parking and pick up and drop off points within the College. As always, active and public transport is encouraged.
Champagnat Day – Friday 19th June
On 6 June, Marist schools across Australia and around the world will mark the Feast Day of St Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers and of Marist Education. It is a wonderful opportunity to give thanks and celebrate our shared Marist identity alongside schools from our global network.
ֱ will come together to celebrate Champagnat Day on Friday 19 June — and in a special first, this will be the first year we celebrate as a K–12 community. The day will begin with Mass, followed by an assembly where we will present the Champagnat Awards, recognising staff and students who live out our Marist characteristics each day through their words, actions, leadership, service, and care for others. These awards are a significant honour within our College community. The assembly will be followed by a fete, which will raise funds for Australian Marist Solidarity (AMS) and other local agencies that support those who are poor and marginalised. Students will also take part in a guild activity to round out the day.
Attendance on this day is compulsory for all students. A detailed letter will be sent to all families outlining the day, events, and expectations.
We look forward to coming together as one College community to celebrate this very special day.
This week, our Year 7 students participated in their annual retreat day, centred on the themes of identity, God’s love, and our call to love others within our community. Throughout the day, students were invited to reflect on Jesus’ command to love your neighbour, considering what this means not only in theory, but in the everyday life of our College community. Through discussion and reflection, students explored how simple acts of kindness, inclusion, forgiveness, and compassion help to build a community where all people feel valued, known, and loved.
At the same time this week, five of our secondary students had the privilege of attending the Secondary Launch of the LifeLink Appeal, led by Archbishop Timothy Costelloe. The gathering invited students to reflect on the life and witness of Saint Francis of Assisi, whose 800th anniversary year is being remembered across the Church in 2026. Francis’ life reminds us that holiness is not found in grand gestures alone, but in living simply, compassionately, and with deep love for both people and creation.
One of the central reflections of the day came through the well-known prayer often attributed to Saint Teresa of Ávila:
These words challenge each of us to recognise that the work of building a loving and compassionate community does not belong to someone else – it belongs to all of us. As followers of Christ, we are called to be the hands that help, the feet that walk alongside others, and the eyes that see the dignity and worth of every person.
This message connects powerfully with the coming feast of Pentecost this weekend. Pentecost reminds us that the Holy Spirit was given not simply for comfort, but to send the disciples out into the world with courage, hope, and purpose. The same Spirit calls us today to continue the mission of Jesus in the way we speak, act, serve, and care for one another.
As a College community, may we continue striving to be people who reflect God’s love in practical and meaningful ways, building a community shaped by compassion, welcome, and service, where each person knows they belong.