Category: Alumni

This morning we welcomed back our outstanding High Achievers from the Class of 2019. It has now become a College tradition at the start of each academic year to recognise the exceptional performances of the previous cohort. The assembly was attended by the Years 10-12 cohorts, teachers and families of the high achievers.

Awards were presented to those students who achieved an ATAR of 90+, who have received special recognition from the School Curriculum and Standards Authority, or achieved excellence in a General Pathway.

In his Principal’s Address, Mr Finneran made reference to the number of significant Australians who were recently recognised as an Australian of the Year;  in particular Ash Barty who was recognised as  The Young Australian of the Year. He quoted Barty’s acceptance speech where she said “It’s about being humble and respectful, and giving it a crack – trying to be the best you can be, and that’s all you can ask of yourself.”

Mr Finneran challenged the High Achievers to “continue to participate, contribute and make a difference to the world in which we live. Put simply, giving it a crack. As a community we will continue to support each other to grow in our strengths – students, teachers and families. To do so, like the Australians of the Year, we need to be resilient, work hard and set goals.”

Other highlights included a performance by Newman Groove, who played Natural Woman and the High Achievers Address by Patrick Diamond.

Patrick reflected on his Year 12 experience; which he admitted was one of the best yet hardest years of his life.  Patrick said “Since leaving Newman I’ve come to realise how grateful I am for the opportunities the school provided. Being in multiple bands taught me new music and skills I can take with me forever, taking part in the production gave me confidence and activities such as debating taught me how to win an argument, a skill that has proven quite useful.”

He also provided some tips for a successful year which included; your friends are your best study companions, utilise the school library, resources and study options like Homework Club, take regular study breaks and most importantly look after yourself.

It was wonderful to see so many of the High Achievers return to the College to celebrate their success. We wish them all the best in this next chapter of their lives.

On Wednesday 20 February the College recognised and celebrated the Class of 2018 who achieved Outstanding Academic Achievement. The High Achievers Assembly was an opportunity for students past and present, family members and staff to reflect and gather together as part of our Marist family.

In his Principal’s Address, Mr Finneran spoke about culture which defines who we are. “Your efforts demonstrated by application, resilience, discipline, shared values friendships and self-belief have enhanced our Newman culture. Thank you for sharing your gifts and talents”.

Jai Taylor (Class of 2018) gave an inspirational address with his main message being; you need to take every opportunity the College has to offer to support your learning without undermining your personal wellbeing.

Congratulations to Kascia Pavisich who was awarded the 2018 Principal’s Award (highest ATAR score) and was recognised for her Outstanding Academic Achievements; a General Exhibition, Subject Exhibition in Psychology and a Subject Certificate of Excellence in both English and Psychology.

Along with the 23 students who achieved and were recognised for their Outstanding Academic Achievement by obtaining an ATAR of 95 and above, Samantha Ashby was recognised for achieving a Certificate of Excellence for Mathematics Applications and Jessica Ranieri for being the recipient of the VET Award.

Well done to the students who made the morning extra special by sharing your gifts and talents in the Symphonic Winds and Chamber Choir.