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ֱ News Term 3 Week 6: From the Principal

Staffing Announcement

I am delighted to announce that Vice Principal, Lisa Fogliani, has been appointed Principal of Mercy College Koondoola, a Catholic Co-educational Kindergarten – Year 12 College of 1600 students. Lisa will commence at Mercy College 1 January 2021. Click here to read more about Ms Fogliani’s appointment and the wonderful contribution she has made to the life of this College.

National Science Week

National Science Week is Australia’s annual celebration of science and technology. Scheduled each year in August, it features more than 1000 events around Australia, including those delivered by universities, schools, research institutions, libraries, museums and science centres.

At ֱ we have taken this to a stratospheric level. The events over the last two weeks have demonstrated an amazing mix of passion, creativity, critical thinking and discovery. Science Week has given our College the opportunity to demonstrate our pursuit into developing our Science, Maths and Technology program. Simply put, STEM. STEM is a curriculum based on the idea of educating students in four specific disciplines — Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics — in an interdisciplinary and applied approach. At ֱ, we engage this paradigm through providing students with both curricular and co-curricular experiences. We recognised its importance by establishing the leader of STEM PK-12 three years ago to ensure a cohesive direction across the College.

This has been exemplified for example through our IDEAS Lab at Marian Campus. The power of this space is that it imbues our children to imagine the impossible, to work together or as we say #collaborate, and be creative. Our Lavalla Campus Primary students really take STEM to the next level, which was again demonstrated during Science Week. Our Marcellin Campus students were exemplary in their creativity and participation in Science Week. We are very fortunate to have outstanding teachers in these subject areas. Our growth in Maths and Sciences, specifically in the Senior School, is testimony to our teachers’ skill and passion. Over the coming years we will continue to prioritise STEM, recognising the incredible opportunities and careers students will be able to pursue post school.

The fruits of this direction have been on display over the last two weeks as it is everyday throughout the College. A sincere thanks to all students, teachers and families who have put so much effort into Science Week.

Catholic Education WA Roadshow

As a result of Covid-19 and restriction on numbers, CEWA replaced its usual conference at the Convention Centre with a series of four ‘Roadshows’, each held at a different Catholic College. The last of the series was held at ֱ in the Marist Auditorium on Tuesday 18 August.

As part of its hosting commitments, ֱ provided the Acknowledgement of Country and Reflection which were delivered by our students.

Our Chamber Choir sang the Acknowledgement of Country, Heart Song, the words of which were written by our Primary Teacher, Nicole Boddy, and the music was written by Susan Bluck, our associate pianist. Our students gave a very powerful performance with the backdrop streaming the professional recording of this piece in collaboration with the Madjitil Moorna Choir.

The event organisers were fulsome in their praise of the way in which students presented themselves. Our venue also showcased our state-of-the-art facilities, supported by ‘behind the scenes’ staff who ensured the event was a great success.

Strategic Directions 2021-2023

On Tuesday evening our Strategic Directions 2021-2023 was approved by Council. The document will now be presented to the Marist Schools Australia Regional Council for authorisation.

I thank parents, staff and students for their collaboration and feedback into the process for developing this Plan, and we look forward to launching to the wider community early in 2021.

Fathers Day, Sunday 6 September

Fathers Day is a time when we celebrate the fathers and father figures in our lives. I take this opportunity to encourage our families to attend the events in our College Calendar over the next week or so when we will give thanks for the gift of these people in our lives. Best wishes to all families for a great day on Sunday 6 September.

ֱ News Term 3 Week 6: From the Leader of Mission and Catholic Identity

Sacramental Program

The Years 3, 4 and 6 classes have now completed their school based Sacramental program. Most recently our Year 6 students welcomed the 24/7 Ministry Team to lead them in the Confirmation Retreat program. This allows all our students to be prepared to celebrate the Sacraments in their Parish at the appropriate time. Click here to access Parish contact details and for further details.

Here at ֱ we prepare students to receive the sacraments, however families must contact their parish to know when they will be celebrating the sacraments.

Please note Confirmation will not be celebrated by any parish this year, according to the most recent statement released by the Archdiocese of Perth.

Download Temporary Suspension of Confirmation Directive by Archbishop Timothy Costelloe

Draw Near Program

Our PK-12 community has continued to work together to donate a range of items for families on bridging visas who do not have access to government support during the Covid-19 crisis. Our Mini-Marists and Gamechangers students arranged the food items into hampers to be distributed to over 30 families in our local area. Matthew’s Gospel reminds us that “whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” Thank you to all staff, students and families for living out this Gospel message in their generosity.

We are now halfway through this appeal. Please continue to donate generously. We are especially in need of bags of dry fruits and nuts. Our Mini-Marists and Gamechangers students will be joining St Dominic’s and Our Lady of Good Counsel to pack the food hampers.

Fathers Day

But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” Luke 15:20
This scripture passage, taken from Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal son, illustrates God’s love for each of us and echoes the love a Father has for their child.

Over the next few weeks there will be an opportunity for students at Marian, Lavalla and Marcellin to give thanks for their Dads and recognise the important role they play in their lives.

  • Marian Campus invites Dads to join for a sausage sizzle breakfast on Thursday 3 September from 8.00am followed by a Liturgy prepared and led by our Year 1 students in the Undercover Area
  • Lavalla Campus invites Dads to join on Monday 7 September for a special Prayer Assembly. There will be free coffee available from the Coffee Cart in the Undercover Area from 8.00am followed by a short prayer service at 8.45am where students will read through some of the warm wishes they have for their Dads.
  • Marcellin Campus Faith and Liturgy Captains will host Student-Led Prayer on Friday 4 September in the Champagnat Chapel at 8.20am, linked to the theme of positive male role models and giving thanks to the Dads, uncles, grandfathers, guardians who have supported them along the journey.

We are looking forward to welcoming all our Fathers to these events across the PK-12 community.

Commissioning Mass of Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist 

On Thursday 3 September, our Community Mass will include the commissioning of twelve Year 11 students who wish to serve in the ministry of Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist. These students have undergone a formation program, led by Campus Minister, Br Terry FMS. As always, families are all invited to attend this celebration of the Eucharist. Mass begins at 8.10am.

ֱ News Term 3 Week 6: From the Deputy Principal Wellbeing Secondary

STEM Festival 2020

The past two weeks has seen the launch of our inaugural STEM Festival, an event which combines the celebrations of Science, Technology and Math Weeks into one big, fun-filled fortnight! A number of activities have taken place, all met with great enthusiasm from our staff and students alike.

In Week 5, students were challenged to create the biggest bubble using sticks, string and a solution of our secret bubble mix, with Nicholas Tavra (Y8) coming out on top. Students were also challenged to create the longest snake possible out of either a Mintie wrapper or lolly snake. Mikayla Short (Y8) and Anica Alo (Y7) took out first place in these two categories. One of the highlights saw students treated to their very own wildlife show, brought to us by WestOz Wildlife. The students had the opportunity to pat a koala, dingo, lizards and even got to hold a real snake!

With all three campuses engaged in STEM activities on Friday 21 August, a number of Year 9 students were asked to assist at the Marian and Lavalla Campuses. These students worked wonderfully with the younger students and truly showcased our four pillars of challenge, create, collaborate and celebrate. Our Year 8’s were fortunate enough to hear from Professor Barry Marshall, a Nobel Prize Laureate and ex-ֱ student. He spoke to the class about his world-famous work on bacteria in the stomach and no doubt inspired a potential future Nobel Prize winner. The first week of our STEM Festival ended with a literal bang! Mr Spriggins and Mr Shuckstes visited all three ֱ campuses to perform their famous ‘Rockets + Explosions’ show. The loud noises were met in volume only by the screams of excitement from the students.

Week 6 saw more STEM events including a baking competition, Pie in the Face, VR immersion, paper plane challenge, short-film festival and Rubik’s cube competition. Thank you to all staff involved for their efforts in making these two weeks a huge success!

Years 11/12 ATAR Drama Day

On Sunday 23 August, students studying Drama in Years 11 and 12 were invited to participate in practical workshops, facilitated by industry professionals; Black Swan Theatre Company and Stray Dog Physical Theatre Company. This learning will support the course content for both Year 11 and 12 ATAR Drama and preparing for the practical Drama exam. Thank you to Mrs Karen Cassidy for coordinating and facilitating this excellent learning experience.

Zone 2 Surfing/ Bodyboarding Results

Congratulations to our boys for winning the State Zone 2 Finals in surfing and bodyboarding against All Saints and Shenton College.

Junior Boys Bodyboarding
1st Luca Chester and Luca Vullinovich
2nd Aidan Sommer and Jaxon Bizacca

Junior Boys Surfing
2nd Aidan Sommers and Kyle Murphy

Senior Boys Bodyboarding
1st Nash Margaria and Jet Meagher

Senior Boys Surfing
1st Nash Margaria and Jet Meagher

Well done to all boys who made the semi finals and second round.

Year 11 Geography Excursion

The Year 11 Geography class hopped onto the bus and headed with great anticipation to the airport to begin their investigation into examples of globalisation in Perth. Sadly, the public viewing platform was closed due to Covid-19, however they still managed to see a few planes land/take off to/from mines in WA. It was wet and cold, so viewing from the bus was a bit of relief. The rain did not deter the intrepid Geographers as they headed to the Swan Valley. The students were lucky enough to explore Upper Reach Winery and be ably guided through the production process, from vine to table, by the owner. As they started on their way back to the College, the students stopped in for a quick hello to the Margaret River Chocolate Factory in the Swan Valley; chocolate a global food product. Finally, the class stopped at Optus Stadium, again Covid-19 stalled their investigation inside but they still managed to explore and discuss the importance of such a stadium to the globalisation of Perth. A great day was had by all, thanks to Mrs March and Mr Shucktses for taking us on the journey.

From the Counselling Team

Amberley from the Butterfly Foundation will be returning during extended PCG next week (Wednesday 2 September) to speak with the Years 9 and 10 students on the topic of ‘what does healthy really look like?’. The aim of the presentation is to promote positive body image and help-seeking behaviours among our students. For more information about the Years 9 and 10 presentation running in Week 7 please .

Pathways and Careers Update

Click here to see all of the upcoming list of events that may be useful for students and parents.

Year 11 Semester Two Exam Timetables

Download Year 11 Semester 2 Exam Timetable

ֱ Parents Presentation

This week, a large number of parents watched the presentation from psychologist Jocelyn Brewer via Zoom. Jocelyn presented on the theme of ‘Digital Nutrition’ and spoke passionately about a number of topics including the evolution of development of young people’s brains, establishing digital agreements with children and ways to encourage healthy habits in the home. We will share some of the insights from her presentation over the next few weeks in the newsletter, however if you missed the presentation a link will be emailed to families of the recorded presentation in the coming weeks. You can check out her website

ֱ Newsreel

A reminder to families the ֱ Newsreel is a new and innovative way for the College to engage and share content with families and staff through the power of augmented reality (AR). Each family should have received a fridge magnet called the ‘ֱ Newsreel’. By downloading and using the ‘Viewa’ Augmented Reality App, users may scan the magnet, bringing to life options to view weekly videos.

These videos are campus specific and contain important information about upcoming events and critical information for students and families. The videos will be updated weekly and provide only essential information to families about the upcoming week. Updated videos will be uploaded each Friday and remain active for one week.

It is important to note that users MUST download the Viewa app to be able to activate the magnet and videos.

Please to view a short introduction video which includes instructions on how to download the Viewa app.

Pathways and Careers Update Term 3 Week 6

Our aim is to provide students with all the latest information that will help them to make decisions about future careers and life beyond school.Please contact Justin Farley, Pathways and Onsite Coordinator for any further queries Justin.Farley@newman.wa.edu.au | 9204 9457

Opportunities for 2021 (Current Years 10 and 11 students)

Students in Year 10 and Year 11 have the opportunity to apply for a number of extra opportunities for the 2021 school year. Please see the table below for further information.

Current Year 10 Students Work experience (Onsite)
Year 10 students can apply to undertake work experience (Onsite) one day per week in Year 11. For further information and to apply, please click here
Applications close on 31 August 2020.
Current Year 10 Students VET / TAFE Certificates
Year 10 students can also apply to study a TAFE (VET) Certificate qualification one day per week in Year 11. For further information and to apply, please click here
Applications close on 31 August 2020.
Current Year 11 Students Work experience (Onsite)
Year 11 students can apply to undertake work experience (Onsite) one day per week in Year 12. For further information and to apply, please click here
Applications close on 31 August 2020.
Current Year 11 Students VET / TAFE Certificates
Year 11 students can also apply to study a TAFE (VET) Certificate qualification one day per week in Year 12. For further information and to apply, please click here
Applications close on 31 August 2020.

Changes to University entry options for 2021

In response to the current situation and associated disruption to Year 12 students, some WA Universities have announced that alternative entry pathways will be available to Year 12 students. Interested parents and students can check the latest information at the addresses below.

• Curtin: Students can apply to a range of courses, using their predicted ATAR based on Year 11 marks. Applications are via the TISC website.
Check:

• ECU: Students can apply to a range of courses, using their predicted ATAR based on Year 11 marks.
Check:

• Murdoch: Year 12’s can apply using their predicted ATAR from Year 11.
Check:

• UWA: Some significant and generous changes that open several new pathways for Year 12’s.
Check:

Upcoming Careers Events

Many of these events have now moved to online delivery. Parents and students are advised to use the links below to check details for particular events.

EVENT VENUE DATE WEBSITE
Admissions Information Evening University of Notre Dame Tuesday 8 September
Parent Power Hour: First in Family at University Murdoch University Tuesday 22 September
Parent Power Hour: Future Careers Growth Murdoch University Tuesday 22 September
Skills West Careers and Employment Expo Perth Convention Centre 23-24 October http://skillswestexpo.com.au/
Parent Power Hour: Dealing with Exam Stress Murdoch University Tuesday 27 October

ֱ News Term 3 Week 6: From the Leader of Wellbeing Primary

One of the most special privileges in life is also one that we most often take for granted – being part of a family. As educators, we hope to instil a sense of family not just across the classroom, but ultimately, across the whole College community too. We all know the importance of family and what it means to feel safe, loved, and valued. But families also offer forgiveness, compassion and the chance to always begin again. One of the Marist characteristics we celebrate at ֱ is Family Spirit; Marcellin Champagnat’s desire for us to all relate to each other as members of a loving family. In building love, acceptance and belonging across our College community, we hope to show students how our relationships with each other can grow and together we make our College a warm and welcoming place for everyone.

Science Week

Last week students took part in Science Week, which culminated in the STEM Festival on Friday. Students were encouraged to dress as a scientist (thinking beyond just the white coat and glasses) and on Friday took part in a number of activities designed to make students curious. The theme of the day was ‘Marvellous Medicines’ and students were treated to presentations from guest speakers from the Telethon Kids Institute which is an Australian research institute focused on the prevention of disease and improved treatments for our community.

Students were able to construct a model that represented the workings of the human lung, while other students had the chance to extract DNA from strawberries. The day finished with a presentation from local Aboriginal woman Dale Tilbrook on Aboriginal medicines and its relationship to nature. We owe a big thanks to our Leader of Learning, Mrs Zelich for all her energy and efforts in organising these events.

Assembly

This morning students gathered together to celebrate the achievements of their friends and classmates at assembly. The theme of our celebrations was around ‘collaborate’; the ability to work effectively with others towards a goal. We also took the time this week to recognise the outstanding efforts of students from our STEM Festival and the positive way they approached the challenging tasks of the day. It is always wonderful to gather together and celebrate the best of student achievement. Congratulations to all our award winners.

Marcellin Award

This week, the Marcellin Award was awarded to Kade Mendes in Year 6. Kade was nominated by his teachers as being one of the ‘unsung heroes’ of the Lavalla Campus. Kade is a student who is consistently considerate of those around him and shows a kind and generous nature in all that he does. This was especially evident in his actions supporting others at the recent Cross Country Carnival. Kade is also tremendously humble, doing good things for others not for recognition or awards, but just because he knows it is the right thing to do. Well done Kade on setting such a positive example for others.

IPSHA Cross Country Carnival Results

In Week 4 the Lavalla Cross Country team competed at the IPSHA Cross Country Carnival held at John XXII College.

Each student challenged themselves to achieve their best result on the day and they should be extremely proud of their efforts and commitment.

Throughout the day, we had some outstanding performances, which deserve to be celebrated. Two students finished second in their respective races, which is an amazing achievement. Congratulations Ella Hills (Year 6) and Thomas Ellis (Year 3).

We also had a number of other incredible results on the day, with the students below placing in the top 15 competitors in their race.

Year 6 Male:
6th- William Murphy
8th- Linus Keane
10th- Cooper Trovarello
11th- Aiden Iannantuioni
14th- Oliver Worley
15th- James Bornmann

Year 6 Female:
2nd- Ella Hills
5th- Sienna O’Rourke
8th- Grace Richardson

Year 5 Male:
5th- Liam Murphy
11th- Michael Malaxos

Year 5 Female:
7th- Clancy Boss
9th- Chloe Rear

Year 4 Male:
5th- Luke Rombouts
9th- Hamish Macgregor
12th-Dylan Hookway
14th- Mitchell Short
15th- Cooper Warrick

Year 4 Female:
7th- Livia Bogdanov
9th- Addison Campbell
10th- Annabelle Adamini

Year 3 Male:
2nd- Thomas Ellis
7th- Xavier Fleay

Year 3 Female:
5th- Allegra Clarke
7th- Charlotte Rear
8th- Layla Bornmann

A very big thank you to all of the students involved, who were exceptional representatives for the College.

Athletics Carnival

The Lavalla Athletics Carnival will be held on Friday 11 September. The format of the day will remain the same as last year, a roving carnival to continue to promote high levels of student engagement and participation. Click here to read more information about the day.

Fathers Day Morning Prayer

On Monday 7 September, we will be hosting a special Morning Prayer Assembly to celebrate all of our fathers and father figures in the community. There will be free coffee available from the Coffee Cart in the undercover area from 8.00am followed by a short prayer service at 8.45am where students will read through some of the warm wishes they have for their dads. We are looking forward to welcoming all of our fathers to our campus.

ֱ Parents Presentation

This week, a large number of parents watched the presentation from psychologist Jocelyn Brewer via Zoom. Jocelyn presented on the theme of ‘Digital Nutrition’ and spoke passionately about a number of topics including the evolution of development of young people’s brains, establishing digital agreements with children and ways to encourage healthy habits in the home. We will share some of the insights from her presentation over the next few weeks in the newsletter, however if you missed the presentation a link will be emailed to families of the recorded presentation in the coming weeks. You can check out her website

ֱ Newsreel

A reminder to families the ֱ Newsreel is a new and innovative way for the College to engage and share content with families and staff through the power of augmented reality (AR). Each family should have received a fridge magnet called the ‘ֱ Newsreel’. By downloading and using the ‘Viewa’ Augmented Reality App, users may scan the magnet, bringing to life options to view weekly videos.

These videos are campus specific and contain important information about upcoming events and critical information for students and families. The videos will be updated weekly and provide only essential information to families about the upcoming week. Updated videos will be uploaded each Friday and remain active for one week.

It is important to note that users MUST download the Viewa app to be able to activate the magnet and videos.

Please to view a short introduction video which includes instructions on how to download the Viewa app.

Lavalla Photo Day Reminder

Families are reminded that School Photo Day will take place on Monday 14 September (Term 3 Week 9). Students should now have received their school photo order envelope. The order envelopes are printed uniquely for each student. On photo day, the camera links to the bar code on the order envelope, therefore it is extremely important that every student returns their envelope on photo day – even if families are not buying photos. The instructions to parents are printed on the envelope and are self explanatory. Parents will notice that they have a wide choice of photo packs available to purchase.

  • Students in Years 3-6 are required to be in full winter uniform (Years 4-6 to wear their blazer).

Great Book Swap

The annual Lavalla book swap will take place on Friday 18 September before school until the bell goes and during lunchtime.

Students are encouraged to donate a book they already own and place in one of the boxes located in the Library and in the foyer.

On the day of the event, students are asked to bring a gold coin donation to purchase a book to take home. The money raised will then be donated to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. Students can of course purchase more than one book at the Book Swap.

The Indigenous Literacy Foundation is a national charity which aims to reduce the disadvantage experienced by children in remote communities across Australia. The foundation promotes the idea of schools holding a book swap in order to raise funds for the charity.