Newsletter

5 April 2019

From Coutouvre to Woolwich….. A Thanksgiving Mass and Celebration of the Marist Sisters!

On Saturday 23 March the College paused to acknowledge the significant contribution of the Marist Sisters to Catholic education on this site here at Woolwich….. 110 years. This journey began many miles away in France, where Jeanne-Marie Chavoin, foundress of the Marist Sisters was born. She was born in the small village of Coutouvre in 1786. Jeanne-Marie was a woman of great courage and tenacity. Listening to God’s call for her, she patiently and with conviction established the first community of Marist sisters in Cerdon in 1823.  She then began a new foundation in Belley, “Bon Repos” in 1825.

Moving forward 83 years, 1908, three sisters ventured here to Australia to establish a new foundation. Sr Melanie who was superior of the group, born in England and Sr Cyrille, also from England and of English, Irish and French descent, who had both been in community in Fiji and Sr Odilon of French origin who sailed from France. Sr Melanie and Sr Cyrille sailed on the Navua, the name we chose for our Boatshed, which we blessed and opened in 2015. Sr Odilon came on a second ship. Can you image them sailing up the Lane Cove River to be welcomed by the Marist Fathers!!

Sr Cyrille was the founding principal of the College in 1909, which began, not as Marist Sisters’ College, but as Mt St Mary’s.

Our celebration for the Marist sisters began with a Thanksgiving Mass concelebrated by Fr Tony Corcoran, Provincial of the Marist Fathers, and five other Marist Fathers as well as our own Fr Kevin Bates. As a community, we blessed the sisters for their significant service to Catholic education. A commemorative plaque was unveiled and blessed to remember this historical event. This was followed by formal acknowledgement speeches by our College Co-captains, Polly Hancock and Danielle Dwyer as well as Dr Dan White, Executive Director of Sydney Catholic schools. Sr Cath Lacey, Unit Leader, spoke on behalf of the Marist sisters. A final acknowledgement included the cutting of a celebration cake which was shared at our special afternoon tea on Cerdon Plaza. It was during this time that special memories and stories were shared.

It is now our commitment as the next generation of Marists, that we carry on the wonderful work that the sisters began. It is important that we keep the Marist charism alive and relevant for our girls today. For our young women at Woolwich, this tradition translates into following Christ by “thinking, judging, feeling and acting” as Mary did in all things. Our ongoing commitment to Mary’s presence can be kept alive by living her spirit of faithfulness and compassionate service, so that others feel God’s tender and merciful love. By adopting Mary’s approach, our young women can walk in the shoes of others with “delicacy and sensitivity”, holding them close to their hearts.

Ensuring our Marist future depends on knowing and respecting our past.

As a Marist family, at Easter we see Mary at the foot of the cross. We see the suffering and sacrifice she endures as mother. Through the unconditional love of her Son we are offered much HOPE at Easter.

Happy Easter to you and your families.

Dr Anne Ireland, Principal

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Save the Date

Ex Students Mass and Reunion Sunday 5 May 2019

From the Assistant Principal

End of Term

As Term 1 draws to a close at the end of next week, I congratulate the students for their commitment to their learning and their involvement in the broad range of opportunities to represent the College and develop in their gifts and talents. I also thank the teaching and support staff for their continued work in providing for and supporting the students in their learning and wellbeing. During the last week of the term, I ask students to maintain this commitment to their learning during classes and maintain the standards of personal grooming and behaviour.

School Buses Update

The arrival and departure of buses is still being closely monitored. I thank the students for their efforts in ensuring that they are using their OPAL Cards when getting on the buses. As I have expressed before, this data is very important in ensuring that the services we have at the moment are maintained. There are still a number of students who have either lost their OPAL Cards or do not have one. I ask parents/carers to check with their daughters that they have their OPAL Cards and are using them. If your daughter does not have a card and relies on the School Buses to get to school and/or home, please ensure you apply for a card. I have been informed by Sydney Buses that the fine for not using an OPAL Card can be up to $200.00. For further information and to apply for a School Opal Card, you may call 131 500 or apply online at https://www.opal.com.au/en/about-opal/opal-for-school-students. 

I’d also like to remind parents/carers that the girls must ensure that they are using the correct bus service and not getting on the wrong bus so as not to impact on other girls who are not able to use that service due to overcrowding on the bus. From next term, there will be a process put in place to ensure that the girls do get on the correct bus. This process will be on the basis of the postcode of residence for each student.

Finally, I wish all students and staff a very restful break during the holiday period!

Ms Marietta Taliana, Assistant Principal

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What's Been Happening in Religious Education

A Lenten Reflection: The Parable of the Fig Tree

Below is an extract from my reflection from our Principal’s Assembly. It contemplates the Gospel from the third Sunday of Lent. I hope that this Easter brings you new aspirations and new hope.

Have a blessed and meaningful Easter!

The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree - Luke (13:6-9)

Then Jesus told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So he said to the gardener, ‘See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?’ He replied, ‘Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’”


Reflection

Fig trees are prolific in Palestine. They produce fruit three times each year. So when the owner comes to inspect the fig trees he expects to find figs! The tree from the parable had great foliage but fails to produce fruit. Failure can take on subtle forms. In our outcome-based society we can often overlook that the process of production is more important than the result of production. We often spend too much time focused on the result and little time about the process to achieve. We forget that without the roots, the soil, the branches, water and ultimately, without care, fruit will never be produced. If the tree bears no fruit, will it be cut down? If our test result isn’t 100%, should it be thrown out? No, there is great value in evaluating why the tree is not producing fruit, just like the man taking care of the vineyard in the parable, when the trees in our lives do not bear fruit then we should not simply cut it down but give it another go, dig around it and add some manure.


The parable of the barren fig tree also applies to our human relationships. I don’t need to abuse a friend to destroy a friendship. All I have to do is leave that friend alone – fail to stay in touch and the unexercised friendship will die a natural death. The same can happen in marriages when common courtesies are forgotten or remembering special moments are a thing of the past. When we stop nurturing and caring for our relationships they will stop producing fruit. We can drift apart from our friends and family, too easily distracted by the demands and busyness of daily life. If we do nothing to repair the damage, then love can die.

My wife sent me an article last week that had a very touching story.

“In the final decade of his life, my grandfather woke up every single day at 7AM, picked a fresh wild flower on his morning walk, and took it to my grandmother.  One morning, I decided to go with him to see her. And as he placed the flower on her gravestone, he looked up at me and said, “I just wish I had picked her a fresh flower every morning when she was alive.  She really would have loved that.” As you can imagine, my grandfather’s words touched a nerve in me. And over the years I’ve often reflected on what he said that morning, and how his sentiment relates to everyone and everything I care about. God willing, when I’m on the cusp of my 80’s, I don’t want to sit with regrets.  I don’t want to wish I had done things differently—especially something as simple, yet meaningful, as picking wild flowers for the love of my life.”

She may have sent this to me because of her desire for more flowers from me... but the deeper meaning of this story was that relationships need time and care to flourish! Life is busy and things in our world can distract us from what is important! Relationships, be it with friends, family, colleagues or partners, they require consistent and enduring love. This includes our relationship with God. We are now about halfway through Lent and the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree reminds us that our relationship with God will also bear no fruit unless we nurture it. We can do this through prayer, through the Sacraments but we can also do this from living out his word and doing his work on earth. God is ever patient. Even when we have sinned, or failed to nurture our relationship with him, God responds with extra tenderness.

Just like God, we too must be patient. With our friends, with our families, with our peers and with ourselves. We must take the time to nurture and care for our garden and not give up on those things that do not bear fruit this year because with love, patience and faith it very well may bear fruit in the future. So what are the fig trees in your life that no longer bear fruit? And what is your ‘soil’ that will allow those fig trees to once again bear fruit!

Archdiocesan Meeting for Religious Education Coordinators and Youth Ministry Coordinators

On 1 April, the Archdiocese held its combined annual RECs and YMCs meeting where the  future of Catholic Education and how Catholic educators can continue to make Jesus relevant to our students in the 21st century was discussed.

We also reviewed the most recent World Youth Day to Panama and our sole representative Olivia Rimac was asked to share her powerful experiences in Mexico & Panama. She spoke with such authenticity and passion about her faith and her transformative experience which moved everyone in the room. She was a wonderful ambassador for our College, our faith and her family.

Here is part of Olivia’s speech:

“By experiencing WYD first hand, I have been fortunate to have made so many wonderful friends, and memories that I will cherish forever. I was also able to meet so many amazing people from all around the world who shared the same faith as me.  I was able to trade mini stuffed koalas in return for another nation's gift, which allowed me to bond and make many new friends.

Encountering Jesus is the reason I attended WYD and what I discovered was that I found Christ in those around me. The students on my bus, Fr Dan, the Sisters, the teachers and the Panamanian people were all witnesses of Christ throughout my pilgrimage.  

The stories shared and the bonds created allowed us to open up to one another. Through this we were able to meet each other wherever we were on our life and faith journey. I realised that I had my reasons for coming to WYD however, my reasons were not the same as those around me. I discovered quickly that some were searching and longing for more in their life and they came to WYD to see if they could find answers. Sharing with each other allowed us to help each other on the journey and further grow in our faith individually and as a Church, together.”

Youth Afternoon at Marist College Eastwood

On Tuesday 2 April, the first of our Youth Afternoons was held at Marist College Eastwood. These afternoons involve students from Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich, Marist College Eastwood and Holy Cross Ryde who meet once a term for a youth ministry event. The students socialise, play icebreaker games and then reflect on a topic, this week’s event focused on the Paschal Mystery. It was a wonderful afternoon with a lot of fun, new friendships and everyone left with a deeper understanding of the Easter season. Marist Sisters’ will host the next Youth Afternoon to be held in Week 9 of Term 2. Students from Years 10, 11 and 12 are all invited to join us then!

Mr Daniel Ronchetti, Acting Religious Education Coordinator

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From the Leader of Learning & Curriculum

Last week Dr Prue Salter from Enhanced Learning Educational Services (www.enhanced-learning.net) ran a study skills evening with Year 7 parents and students.  The evening helped families assess what changes could be made to help students work towards achieving their personal best in an efficient and effective way. Students examined their home study environment, the way they organise and manage their resources, how to work effectively at home and deal with distractions, how to manage the workload in high school, and the steps to studying in high school: making study notes, learning the notes by testing yourself and doing as much practise as possible. Parents are encouraged to review the handout from the session with students and discuss the main areas identified where changes need to be made.

Parents can also find extra study skills tips on the following website: http://studyskillstoptipsparents.com/.

Mrs Melinda Alvarez, Leader of Learning and Curriculum 

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From the Leader of Wellbeing

2019 Girlpower

“Respectful and valued relationships with teachers and the wider community are key to helping more students feel greater connection to their school, leading to far-reaching positive effects” (Professor Lea Waters, University of Melbourne 2018).

As we reflect on the busyness of Term 1 there has been a certain buzz in our classrooms, Tutor groups and House time since the commencement of the year. Whilst schools are overall extremely active in their day to day, we must always consider the importance of connection and a greater sense of belonging and feeling accepted. Research certainly shows that relationships with peers is equally as important as with the role that their teachers plays in helping to form healthy relationships. Students reported a greater sense of belonging when they feel teachers respect and value them. 

As an important value here at the College, our three-tiered wellbeing programs revolve around the importance of connection and belonging. Our intention is to provide numerous opportunities for our students across campus or within their year group to interact with one another. This is evident through our vertical Year 7-12 Tutor Group system, Community Time Year group or House interactions, through to the evidence based Wellbeing programs or targeted support for the needs of students. 

Be Brave. Be Bold. Be You!

Sometimes, students do find it difficult to communicate with their peers if they are shy or have low self-esteem or feel that their opinions and ideas are not as valued as others. At MSCW, there are a plethora of opportunities for all students to succeed outside of the classroom by partaking in sport, music, drama, dance, debating or the many other school-based student-led initiatives offered through our various committees. These inclusive opportunities help build self-esteem and feelings of self-worth, which helps the students to then be kind to themselves and towards each other, and most importantly it provides them with new avenues of friendship and support.  

Feeling connected is important in fostering a greater sense of self awareness. This is what we refer to as social and emotional development. Our guest speaker, CEO of Starlight Children’s Foundation, Louise Baxter (Ex-Student, 1978) presented at our Principals’ Assembly. She encouraged the importance of connection, belonging, empowering ourselves to reach for the stars and using our gifts to pave the way ahead for our future as women of tomorrow. 

In her words: Girlpower - Be Brave. Be Bold. Be You!

Winter Uniform

I thought I would take this opportunity to remind parents, staff and students about the roll over into the Winter school uniform at the commencement of Term 2. Please support the College with ensuring that your daughter has the appropriate uniform ready for the first day back. May I suggest that uniform lengths, sizings are checked before the first day of Term 2. We have introduced a lunchtime uniform detention every Friday for the first uniform infringement. A second detention is now escalated to an after school. Students are well aware of the College policy as we regularly refer to this in House assemblies, daily notices and in Tutor group. 

Mrs Sia Mastro, Leader of Wellbeing

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Wellbeing News

Jaricot House News

It has been a busy couple of busy weeks for Jaricot House! We have had 2 Homeroom dinners, J2 and J4, a wonderful time for making connections and friends. Thank you to parents, Ms Cooper and Mr Richardson for facilitating this dinner and making it such an enjoyable experience for the girls.

We also had a wonderful House Assembly together last week. We decided to introduce a new structure to our assembly. Our Jaricot Star Awards were presented to Liana Migdisyan (J6), Ciara O’Brien (J7) and Claudia Walker (J6) for their excellent effort and initiative for fundraising for Project Compassion. A very special thank you to Claudia for her wonderful efforts in fundraising amongst her local community (whereby she raised in excess of $30). It is wonderful to have girls that are fine examples of our House Patron, Pauline Jaricot, in reaching out to the community and making a difference to those who are less fortunate than ourselves.


During our House Assembly, we had a very special presentation from Ms Cooper on climate change. This was engaging for the girls and is a sizzling topic in our world and media. This presentation informed the girls of some vital statistics for how our world is declining and how much work needs to be done by all of us, and particularly the younger generation to counteract an action plan to ensure our communities and colonies survive and grow.

It is important in Jaricot House to present such vital topics for discussion and ones that we can then continue in our Tutor Groups. I look forward to groups sharing their feedback from these discussions in weeks to come and developing a House Action plan for some ways we too can work on sustainability.

On Wednesday we participated in the Cross Country. Sincere thanks to Mr Watts and Ms Kellert (two of out wonderful tutors) for making this a wonderful event and experience for the girls. Please look out in our next edition of the newsletter for lots of pink photos for girls involved!

Sport has a special place in our House Assembly. Next edition please look out for the award winners and photos from recent sporting events whereby talented Jaricot students have been involved.

Have a wonderful fortnight!

Ms Amy Burrage, Jaricot House Coordinator

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J4 and J2 Homeroom Dinner

On Wednesday 20 March, Mr Richardson and Ms Cooper-Findlay met with students from J2 and J4 for a a combined homeroom dinner. The students were really keen to connect with each other outside of school and there were some wonderful friendships made and reinforced. The dinner was held at Grill'd Burger Bar at Macquarie Centre and everyone enjoyed a delicious range of burgers and three kinds of chips! It was wonderful to catch up with the girls and their parents who kindly arranged drop offs and pick ups to facilitate this community building evening.

Mrs Melissa Cooper - Findlay,  J4 Tutor

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Chanel House News

Last week for House Forum Chanel did “Minute to Win it” as a fun activity to finish off a great term! The activity involved each homeroom competing in mini activities (each lasting a minute) against each other, in order to gain points to win the Chanel Cup (and some chocolates!). The activities ranged from bottle flipping to pulling tissues out of tissue boxes and all the girls got really involved and were super competitive. Despite our move from Bon to Jarnosse, all the girls adapted really well and it was definitely the loudest the library has been due to all the cheering! Everyone in the House was really encouraging of one another and showed our house values of reaching outwards and upwards through the way they participated and supported each other. It was the first community time Chanel spent doing a homeroom vs homeroom competition this year and it was really nice seeing all the girls getting so involved!

Abbie Lewis & Sophie Gobran - Chanel House Captains

This was a wonderful celebration within Chanel House to end the term together. For me, it was great to be part of the spirit and energy for one final House Forum for the year. As I farewell Chanel until next year to go on maternity leave, I am so pleased to have seen the team work, cheering and joy on the faces of all of our students as we competed in Minute to Win it. Abbie Lewis and Sophie Gobran organised a fantastic House Competition that began with a beautiful prayer organised by Luana Di Stefano. The girls are to be commended on their efforts in making this a wonderful celebration for all Chanel students to enjoy. All year groups were represented in the individual competitions and various surprise skills came to light during this time. Congratulations to Chanel 1, who took out the Chanel Cup on the day.

We, as a House are also looking forward to hearing the results from our Cross Country Carnival held on Tuesday. Chanel students have been so incredibly active and excited in their registrations for the race. That wonderful House spirit and community vibe is alive in Chanel and I couldn't be more proud. Good luck for the remaining carnivals of the year, Chanel. I'll be listening out for the efforts to come this year.

Ms Rebecca Bombaci, Chanel House Coordinator

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Perroton House News

During house community time this week, Perroton held our annual dodgeball competition. It was homeroom against homeroom! All girls in Perroton participated by playing and showing support for their Tutor Group and the House. Everyone got involved and encouraged each other, truly demonstrating our house motto of courage. P2 was the winning homeroom taking home the title of 2019 Perroton dodgeball champions!!

Monica Attia & Drew Bryans, Perroton House Captains

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Perroton Sporting Star

Congratulations to Sofia Watts (P1) who competed at the 2019 Australian Track and Field Championships on the 2nd of April. She raced in the 400m giving it her all against the best in Australia and achieving a personal best time. Sofia placed 12th overall in the U14 age category against strong competitors across Australia. We are so proud of you , Well Done Sofia!!! 

Ms Jenna Cremin, Perroton House Coordinator

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A Word from the Counsellor

Physical Activity for “Non-sporty Kids”

We all know how important it is to be physically active.  We know exercise improves cardiovascular fitness, builds muscle and bone strength, and helps us live longer.  The links between exercise and good mental health are well established. There are many reasons adolescents begin to “drop” sport, including changing bodies, peer pressure and societal expectations, and just plain boredom or lack of interest. Parents may need to think outside the parameters of traditional team and individual sport to get regular exercise happening.  Here are a few ideas you might choose to consider… 

1. The most important thing for parents to remember is that young people pick up habits from you, so make sure you practise what you preach! Think of physical exercise as an opportunity to spend quality time with your young person: walk the dog together or organise a monthly family outing hiking in the mountains or walking along the beach or the Bay Run which is popular with the girls here.

2. If an adolescent is sensitive about their body shape or stature, consider sports or activities that use similar skills, but where a preferred body shape / size is not so critical to success. Changing to circus skills, trapeze or diving may appeal to a girl who has grown “too tall” or become “too muscly” for traditional gymnastics or ballet, or a switch altogether from ballet to say a preference for non traditional female sports, soccer or rugby, windsurfing, paragliding or sailing.

3. If a lack of reward, success and acknowledgement is discouraging, try re-framing the definition of “success”. Achievement can be measured in many ways: learning a new skill, completion of an event, a new personal best, total steps taken with a pedometer, pulling in the largest number of sponsors or achieving a particular fundraising goal. If your young person has a fitbit or similar take an interest in how it works.

4. Sometimes the realisation that a goal is out of reach may lead people to think their time has been wasted, and that any further effort will be similarly wasted. All those lonely early morning starts and time spent toiling endlessly up and down the swimming pool do not need to lead only to being school champion or a member of the Olympic swim team  —  they can set a path toward socially rewarding activities such as surf lifesaving, team sports such as water polo, part time jobs or even careers as swim instructors, life guards or coaches.

5. Link other interests to physical activity. Feel the need to learn relaxation, pursue spirituality, or to simply alleviate back and shoulder pain from hours of study?  Try yoga or pilates.  Keen interest in environmental causes and conservation?  Think about hiking, orienteering, join the The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Program or volunteer bushcare regeneration.  Love animals and want to be a vet?  Consider horse riding or become a paid holiday dog walker.  Absorbed by fantasy novels and online role-playing games?  Give fencing or archery a go.

6. If playing soccer or tennis is no longer “cool”, look for an activity that has a bit of street cred —  perhaps surfing, skate or snowboarding, or maybe mountain biking or parcours (free running and street acrobatics).7. When boredom is the killer, add some variety to the routine. Maybe Zumba instead of Jazz classes for a few weeks, hike in the mountains or stroll along the beach for a change from the local park, or get hold of an app like Zombies, Run! to really shake up the morning jog!

And if all else fails, dancing around in their room with blaring music, or doing 20 “burpees” a day will get your heart rate up...don’t forget to lead by example, our teens continue to watch and learn!!

If you have any concerns about your daughter please feel free to contact the College Counsellor, Becky Salter via rebecca.salter@syd.catholic.edu.au or ph: 0435 659 694.

*(Article adapted from the KYDS Fact sheets May 2018)

Ms Becky Salter, College Counsellor

NSW Parliament House with MP Trent Zimmerman

On Thursday 28 March, we, along with student leaders from other schools in the North Sydney Federal electorate, were invited to a lunch at NSW Parliament House with MP Trent Zimmerman. We had the opportunity to converse and highlight issues we believe should be a focus for the government. Important topics such as climate action, support for LGBTQ youth, assistance for Aboriginal communities, the rise of Islamophobia, push for gender equality, the refugee crisis and more were all brought up and avidly discussed. Trent Zimmerman took note of our concerns, responding and commenting on them in a way that encouraged further discussion.

The student leaders present were extremely highly enthusiastic, forward thinking and passionate in a range of areas and challenges facing our world. It was a highly worthwhile experience to be able to interact with our local member of Parliament as well as the other students, many of whom we are sure will be the leaders of the future. Thank you to our Federal member, Mr Zimmerman and Dr Ireland for the great opportunity.

Danielle Dwyer and Polly Hancock, College Co-Captains


TAS News

TAS News

Last week Years 11 and 12 TAS students were able to explore, extend and enrich their learning in a range of non-school settings.

On Tuesday 26 February, Year 12 Food Technology students visited two venues -  Pastabilities (pasta making facility) and Paesanella cheese production facility in the Inner West. The students got to witness the production and processing of foods,  quality and quantity control in the selection of raw materials for food processing,  the role of food additives in the manufacturing process,  characteristics of equipment used as well as quality management considerations in industrial practices to achieve safe foods for public consumption, eg hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP); work health and safety and hygiene. It was a valuable insight into the food production and manufacturing industry.

On Friday 1 March, Year 11 and 12 Design & Technology and Textiles & Design students visited the Shape exhibition at the PowerHouse Museum. The Shape exhibition featured a selection of exemplary Major Projects from HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design students from the 2018 Higher School Certificate examinations. The Year 11s benefited from getting advice from a student whose work was selected. Year 12s learned from the experts in the HSC seminar where tips were given from the founder of GoGet Cars and from senior HSC markers. 

We were also lucky enough to get a private talk and tour of the Akira Isogawa exhibition. This exhibition is the first to explore his career of more than 25 years, revealing the background, impulses and cultural influences that have contributed to the making of a fashion original. The Textiles students also got to view a special exhibition called “Fantastical Worlds” where they viewed new acquisitions from four artists and designers: Timothy Horn, Alexander McQueen, Kate Rohde and Timorous Beasties including a gown designed for Beyonce. 

The Design & Technology class also got to visit an industry expo where they were able to speak to young designers and explore a range of innovative products. Back at the College, we also took part in a video conference with Kate Elton, a local Industrial Designer. Kate is a multi-disciplinary designer with a passion for design that positively influences people’s experiences and the students were very happy to have been able to ask her questions about her career and accolades.  

Ms Kathy Reid, TAS Coordinator

HSIE News

Asking the BIG Questions in BIG History

For our first Year 9 Big History Assessment Task ‘How do we decide what we believe?’, we were given many statements built off real-life issues in today's society. For example, one of our given statements was: ‘Global nuclear warfare is inevitable’ or ‘Governments should be investing resources into re-creating the Big Bang’ and we had to argue whether we believed this statement or not as well as including the counter arguments. Our arguments had to be backed with legitimate evidence from real sources, statistics and factual information.  This was to put ourselves into the minds of experts (including historians, anthropologists, scientists etc) to give us an understanding to why we believe what we believe.  

So, what is Big History? Big History is an academic discipline which examines history from the Big Bang to the present. Big History resists specialization, and searches for universal patterns or trends.  

We had to present our information on a poster that was not only visually pleasing but also they had to be easy to read and interpret, showing persuasive and correct language and pictures or graphs. On the due date, we presented them by scattering them all around Colin Square and inside the classroom 412 in the form of a Gallery Walk.  We were split into small groups where we spent 2 minutes at each poster, listening to the presenter speak, then moving on and hearing our other peers present.  We then swapped so that everyone in the class got to present, as well as hear a range of views. And to say the least, we learnt some pretty interesting stuff!

Although this was a formal assessment task (which have the potential to be stressful), not only was it fun and enjoyable, but it was also very eye opening into modern problems in today’s society, and how our future generations will have to be the ones to fix them, if we don’t act now. This task was created in a way that lets you experience a new perspective of life, and it certainly has done just that.

I would like to thank Ms Farroukh, our Big History teacher, for all the hard work she has put in to help us understand the “Big” Questions. Everyone in the class did a fantastic job and it really kick started some robust discussions and debate in our class.  Looking forward to what the rest of the year has in store! 

Maia Nixon and Abbey Templeton , Year 9 Big Historians 

The National Schools Constitutional Convention

The National Schools Constitutional Convention was held in Canberra from 19 – 21 March. I was fortunate enough to attend the convention representing NSW along with 29 other students. The students from NSW were selected from 150 students at the NSW Constitutional Convention held in October last year. In Canberra, 120 Year 12 students from across Australia gathered to discuss: “Should there be a new Preamble for the Australian Constitution”. 

The Convention included visits to Parliament House and Old Parliament House where we were addressed by a variety of parliamentarians as well as the High Commissioners from Canada, Fiji and India. The highlight was when we worked in student groups to discuss possible changes to the Australian Constitution. Discussion included: whether the use of ‘Almighty God’ remains relevant in Australia’s increasingly secular and multi-faith society, the need to recognise the Indigenous Australians as the custodians of the land and whether Western Australia and Northern Territory should be included in the states listed. The most controversial topic was whether Australia should still be recognised as a “Federal Commonwealth under the Crown of the United Kingdom”. Following discussion, our task was to draft an appropriate preamble for modern day Australia, which along with a Communiqué of the convention was to be presented by Senator Sue Lines to the Senate. We also participated in our own mock referendum where there was an overall “yes” vote across all states and territories to a new preamble. We concluded the day with dinner at High Court of Australia, where we were lucky enough to tour the building and the courtroom where the Constitution is interpreted. 

Finally, I would like to extend a special thank you to Dr Ireland for her support, and Mr Powell for his organisation and guidance in the lead up to the convention. This opportunity has been an experience I will never forget.

Alyssa Morganti, Year 12 Legal Studies 

VET Entertainment News

On Tuesday 26 February, sixteen Year 11 Vet Entertainment students had the opportunity to travel to Fox Studios to explore and experience the behind the scenes of the show ‘This Time Next Year’ hosted by Karl Stefanovic. The girls got to walk backstage and see the insights of lighting, sound and other key production aspects on how TV shows are put together.

After our backstage tour, we were seated down in the studio waiting for the production to commence. As we were seated, we had the highly energetic Steve, who prepared & entertained us before filming commenced. After making us wait for which seemed an eternity, they finally started filming. With many emotional lives changed, all sixteen of us were on the edge of our seats. After 4 hours of filming, our tour at Fox Studios came to an end and we started to head back to school. While walking out, 5 of the girls had the chance to take a photo with Karl which was exciting.

This opportunity at Fox Studios has given us a better understanding of the Entertainment Industry and to take what we learnt on the day into our studies. Thank you to Ms Burrage for attending the excursion with us and to Mrs Taliana, Dr Ireland and Ms Clarke for letting us have the opportunity to go to this once in a lifetime experience. 

Year 11 VET Entertainment Students

CSDA Public Speaking

This term 12 Marist Sisters’ students from Years 7-12 proudly represented the College in the CSDA Public Speaking Competition. The following students are to be congratulated on their well constructed and delivered speeches: 

    Year 7: Alessia Lo Russo and Jadyn Fong

    Year 8: Zara Chand and Gabriella Michalopolous

    Year 9: Chelsea Colantuono and Clara Tietz

    Year 10: Hannah Potma and Kora Villa

    Year 12: Danielle Dwyer and Polly Hancock

Of these girls, six students successfully moved onto the Zone finals travelling to Aquinas Catholic College in Menai. The following girls performed admirably amidst strong competition across the Sydney region: Gabriella (Year 8), Chelsea (Year 9), Hannah and Kora (Year 10) and Polly (Year 12). 

Danielle Dwyer in Year 12 is to be highly congratulated on representing the College at  the Grand Final at Marist North Shore with her highly persuasive and emotive speech on the continued efforts for women to gain equality in the workforce. 

Mrs Belinda White, Public Speaking Coordinator

Post School Pathways News

Over the next few months students in Years 10 and 12 will begin to make decisions to determine the next step in their career journey. A new initiative is our Year 10 Career Education classes whereby students engage in activities to learn about the world of work, job applications and future careers. Our focus for Term 1 is to assist students in identifying their own personal strengths and link these to potential career pathways. Using online career tools, students will discover their interests and abilities, learn about specific job requirements and work towards selecting the right senior subjects for post-school study and careers.

Our focus for Year 12 this semester is to help students prepare for life beyond school. This includes learning how to apply to for courses and early entry schemes. During Community and lunchtime sessions I spoke to students about the need to be proactive in planning their futures by seeking course information, checking relevant emails and reading career notices in the newsletter to ensure they are aware of relevant dates, including application deadlines.

Please download the file below for more information.

Ms Leonie Clarke, Post School Pathways Coordinator

Please download the file below.

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Sports News

NSW Combined Catholic College Blue Awards

Congratulations to Gabriella Stanwix (Year 10 Student) who received a Blue Award for AFL and Lauren Pruscino (Class of 2018) who received a Blue Award for Football (Soccer) at the NSW Combined Catholic College Awards night last month.

The NSW CCC Awards recognises outstanding Sporting achievements and is the highest accolade a student can receive from NSW Combined Catholic Colleges.

Gabriella competed at the NSW All Schools Girls AFL Championships in Blacktown on the 4 June, 2018 and played against teams from across the state. NSWCCC came second out of four teams. Gabriella was selected for the NSW Girls u15s team where she compete in Adelaide, representing NSW at the Nationals competition in July 2018. 

Gabriella then represented NSW in the School Sports Australia u15 National AFL Championships in Adelaide on 21-28 July, 2018. NSW played in a pool against South Australia, Victoria and Northern Territory, winning 2/3 games. They then played Western Australia in the semi-final and unexpectedly beat the side by 7 points. The grand final was played against Victoria, the game was close right through to the last quarter. Unfortunately, NSW lost 23-32. Gabriella was playing full forward and played a cracking game, scoring 3 goals (worth 6 points each) and 2 points.

NSW CCC Football provides opportunities for students in the secondary Catholic school system in NSW to play for their schools in a state wide round robin competition, to represent their educational areas against other Dioceses in the state, to gain selection in CCC team and play against students from the private and public school sector, and ultimately to gain selection in NSW and Australian teams selected from secondary schools in the Catholic, public and private sectors.

The CCC team this year consisted of 16 girls from a number of Catholic Schools across NSW and included our Lauren Pruscino, who had a fantastic tournament and gain selection in the NSW All Schools team. 

Lauren then represented NSW at the School Sports Australia Football Championships, which was held this year in Victoria, Shepparton from Saturday 25 August to Friday 31 August 2018.

The under 18’s NSW team consisted of 16 talented girls from State, Catholic and Independent High Schools.

The Championship showcased the best Footballers in the Australia school system and Lauren was a standout player from game one against WA. She is a talent player who reads the game very well. Lauren is a very good centre back and uses both feet to distribute the ball and was a senior member of the team and was well respected by the other players.

Both students are enthusiastic and committed students, always striving to do their best in the AFL and Football sporting arena. They also display excellent leadership skills and are good role models to the younger students on and off the field.

We congratulate Gabriella and Lauren on these prestigious awards.

I am one proud Sports Coordinator. Well Done!

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

MCCS Volleyball

Round 7

Wet weather

Semi Finals

Juniors lost to Trinity Catholic College 25-23, 25-19

MCCS Touch Football

Round 7

Wet weather

Semi Finals

Juniors won via forfeit against Nagle

Seniors won 2-0 versus Catherine McAuley

MCCS Open Water Polo

MCCS Open Water Polo Results = Semi Final 

MSCW 9 vs Domremy 11

Canteen News

Week 11

Please note there will be no Specials during Week 11.  Please also note on Friday, 12 April 2019 the menu selection on  Flexischools will be limited due to Lent and the last day of Term 1. 

Term 2 Canteen Roster

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