Term 3 has been a busy, event filled term and I know that many tired students (and teachers) are looking forward to the holiday break. Students should be commended on the excellent effort they have applied to their learning across a range of learning areas this term and it is easy to reflect on the many achievements and talents that have been showcased across this period of learning. It is hard to believe that we are nearing the end of another school year, with only one term remaining. I wish all our families a very restful and safe break and look forward to hearing the many stories that our students will have to share about their holiday adventures.
Term 4 commences on Tuesday 13 October with students to dress in their Newman College Summer Uniform.
Year 2 Fairytale STEM Day
Our Year 2 students had a fantastic learning experience that involved three different Fairytale themed STEM challenges. Teachers and students all got into the spirit by dressing up as a Fairytale character, as they undertook inquiry-based learning experiences that asked them to create the tallest freestanding beanstalk for Jack that they could, make a pig for the three little pigs that wouldn’t blow away and create a tall tower for Rupunzel.
The learning that students could articulate at the end of the day, is a testament to the hard work the teachers put into the planning of this event. The excitement and engagement of the students was fantastic to witness and reflects how we embed our school’s pedagogical pillars of create, challenge, celebrate and collaborate.
Year 2 Red Science Showcase
Parents and Grandparents visited the 2 Red classroom to view the Science learning that has been undertaken this term. The students have been enjoying the exciting projects that their Notre Dame Final Practicuum student, Ms. Juliet Ferris has been leading them through.
Pre Primary Liturgy
Our Pre Primary students led a beautiful and meaningful liturgical celebration that showcased their Religious Education learning focus from this Term. As the students sung songs and danced liturgically, we were presented with the Creation story and given cause to reflect on the gifts that God has given us.
Thank you to the Pre Primary teaching team for their efforts in preparing this celebration to end Term 3 and to Father Kaz for leading us in the service.
Athletics Carnival
What a way to end the term! A very big thank you to Mrs Stella Northey for her efforts in coordinating the 2020 Marian Athletics Carnival. The smooth running of all events is a credit to the high levels of organisation and preparation that Mrs Northey dedicates to the event.
The team spirit displayed by students was fantastic and is what the event strives to achieve. The enthusiasm of students and their energy in celebrating each others achievements is a testament to the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Congratulations to Delany Faction who won today’s carnival.
Book Week 2020
Book Week will be celebrated across the College in Term 4 Week 2 (Monday 19 – Fri 23 October 2020). This year’s Book Week theme is Curious Creatures, Wild Minds!
Activities on the Marian Campus will include:
- Tuesday 20 October: Marian Parade in the undercover area after morning prayer assembly at 8.50am for Kindy to Year 2 students.
- Friday 23 October: Author & Illustrator Incursion, James Foley
Marcellin Award
Congratulations to the following students who received a Marcellin Award in Week 9:
- Leo Atkinson, Year 1: for showing personal strength like Mary in the way that you have challenged yourself to make responsible choices at school. We are so proud of your progress and the mature student you are becoming. Keep up the excellent effort!
The Marcellin Award at Marian Campus is drawn from submitted nominations each Wednesday morning at Prayer Assembly.
Thank you and Farewell
I extend my thanks to Ms Joanna Moore who has been working at the Marian Campus throughout Term 3. Ms Moore worked for six weeks in the Year 2 Green classroom and three weeks in the Pre Primary Blue classroom. Ms Moore instantly became a highly valued member of the Marian Teaching team and we are grateful for the very positive and loving contribution she brought to staff and students. She will be missed by staff, students and parents alike.
We would also like to congratulate Ms Juliet Ferris (2R) and Ms Kayla Smith (PPR) who completed their final teaching practicum this Term on the Marian Campus. Both of these Pre-Service Teachers were exemplary educators who brought enthusiasm, dedication and joy to their classrooms over the course of the term. We wish them the best of luck as they venture out and begin their careers as educators – any child will be blessed to have either of them lead their classroom.
Year 12 Celebrations
On Thursday our final College Assembly was held where the school celebrated the Year 12 students’ time at Newman College. Please click here to view the Assembly speech.
In addition, we announced our new leaders at the Assembly.
2021 Student Leaders
Congratulations to our 2021 Student Leaders and, in particular, to Matao Owen and Taylah Sadgrove who have been appointed College Captains. Please click here to view the Student Leadership Team for 2021. I look forward to working with our new Leaders in Term 4 and into 2021.
Senior Leadership Team
Alan Fitzpatrick, Deputy Principal Wellbeing Secondary, will step down from his leadership position as of today. I thank Alan for the endeavour he has brought to this role over the past two years and we look forward to him continuing at Newman College in a teaching role. Lisa Fogliani, Vice Principal, will assume associated responsibilities during Term 4.
On behalf of the College community I wish to congratulate Carla Pastorelli, currently Leader of Wellbeing Year 12, for being appointed to this position. Carla commences as Deputy Principal Secondary at the commencement of Term 1 2021.
Sacramental Program
This week at our Community Mass, Emilie Costley was initiated into the life of the Catholic Church with the Sacrament of Baptism and First Holy Communion. Congratulations to Emily, her family, sponsors and friends on a beautiful and moving Mass presided over by Monsignor Kevin Long.
Remar Gold Graduation
Congratulations to our Gold Rowers of 2020 who attended a Graduation Dinner on Monday evening. These students have been on the Remar journey for the past three years, developing a strong sense of community and service to others. We trust that our Remar students go out into the world as faith filled leaders and agents of change within their communities. Many thanks to the teachers and members of the Marist Youth Ministry who walked with our students over the last three years, and with special mention to Br Terry Orrell.
Spring Music Showcase
Congratulations to those students who performed last Tuesday evening at the Years 3-6 and Years 7-12 events.
This was the first performance since the advent of COVID-19 when students have had the opportunity to showcase their talents. Their joy and delight of such an opportunity was evident, indeed, letting their light shine.
Thank you to all staff who have contributed to the nurturing and development of these talents and for staging such impressive events. Thank you also to parents for the support of their children in the Arts Learning Area.
Year 7 2021 Parent Information Evening
On Wednesday evening we welcomed our new parents to Newman College for an information evening to assist in the preparation of their students commencing secondary school. There are limited opportunities for places in this cohort, as for other Secondary school year groups. Should a place be sought, parents are urged to contact the Registrar with urgency. Families of the Collee should note that sibling enrolments are prioritised.
Year 5 Project
This week Renae Zelich and I invited a small number of Year 5 students to celebrate the success of their class Project. The students wrote to me in June of this year requesting specific seating outside their classroom which would:
- Keep their uniforms cleaner and less creased by not having to sit on the ground
- Provide an outdoor flexible learning area
- Increase collaborative spaces for classmates
The students were able to provide a sound rationale, design and approximate costing. Congratulations to Year 5 on letting your light shine through applying our four pedagogical pillars to this project – challenge, collaborate, create and finally celebrating success.
Marian Athletics Carnival
Today we held our Marian Athletics Carnival. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and enjoyment on display. This was a wonderful way to finish the term.
Thank you to the Marian Campus staff for staging a very successful event and to the many parents who attended in support of their children.
End of Term 3
I wish all families an enjoyable, restful and safe holiday break and we look forward to seeing everyone back at school in summer uniform on Tuesday 13 October.
Wherever the followers of Marcellin are present, working together in mission, this ‘‘family spirit’’ is the Marist way of communal living. Its well-spring is the love that Jesus has for all his brothers and sisters – all of humanity. Through this spirit we offer an experience of belonging and union in mission. Water from the Rock #32
Term 3 comes to an end in an exciting way for our students in 2020. For many, events from beginning of the year had been cancelled, yet this Term allowed for these events to return in some way for our students. This was only possible because of the outstanding work of our teachers, support of our families and commitment of our students. All reflected by our Marist Characteristic of “family spirit”.
Welcome to the Church
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
Congratulations to Emilie Costley who recently received the Sacrament of Baptism, Reconciliation and Holy Communion at our Thursday Morning Community Mass. The Mass was led by Monsignor Kevin Long, who administered the Sacraments to Emilie. Thank you to Br Terry (Campus Minister) who was instrumental in Emilie’s preparation for the day.
Remar Gold Graduation
On Monday 21 September, our Remar Gold students graduated from the Marist Youth Ministry program. Parents and other significant people in the journey of the caravel attended the Marist Auditorium studios and were treated to an evening in which they were able to hear the experiences that the young Rowers held dear. There were lots of laughs, jokes and a rousing rendition of My Lighthouse to end the night. Thank you to all who have walked with the 2020 Gold Rowers on their journey. A special thanks to their helm, Genna Spadaccini for her commitment to the students in her care for the past three years.
Welcome to Game Changers
On Tuesday afternoon, Years 7 and 10 Game Changers students joined the Year 11 Blue Remar students for a Welcome to Marist Youth Ministry Social. We were fortunate to also be joined by two of our alumni, Liam Street and Sarah Ranieri who helped us learn the all important Newman College tradition of singing and dancing the actions to My Lighthouse. It was a wonderful way to welcome our Year 7’s into the Marist Youth Ministry community and beautiful display of family spirit.
Year 10 Lavalla Game Changers Retreat
Week 8 saw our Year 10 Lavalla Game Changers students here at school for their leadership camp. They were joined by Post School Marist Youth Ministers Georgia Martin and Dan Litjens who ran amusing sessions that reinforced the students understanding of topics such as leadership, faith and service. Highlights included the leadership and team building games, the ‘sherbet leadership creations’ and the time and space to learn and grow in community. Thank you to Miss Sophie Monisse who has been walking with these students on their journey this year as mentor.
Marist Association
On Sunday 20 September, 20 members of the Marist Association gathered to celebrate the Eucharist at St Joseph’s Parish Subiaco. We were warmly welcomed by Monsignor Kevin Long and the parishioners. After Mass, everyone gathered in the Parish centre to build community and share in our successes this Term. Thank you to St Joseph’s Parish and the Association members for demonstrating what it means to be part of the Marist family.
St John Henry Newman
During the holidays on Friday 9 October, we will celebrate the Feast of St John Henry Newman. Newman was canonised in 2019 and recognised as a Saint for his academic contribution to the Church. Newman is very well known in the Church as a theologian, a teacher and an educationalist. As a priest he visited the sick, the imprisoned, he was a friend to everybody on the streets, to people in high places and power, with the poor, the rich, the famous, the unknown.
To commemorate this Feast Day, Newman College will be celebrating Mass across Marian, Lavalla and Marcellin Campus in Term 4, Week 1. Students will also participate in activities relating to Newman’s life and learn about the contributions he made to the life of the Church.
Staff Movements
We are grateful for the service of Joanna Moore (Marian Campus), Sara Stancati and Anna Owen (Marcellin Campus) and Denise Bendotti (Lavalla/Marcellin Campuses). We wish them well in their future endeavours.
Term 4 Week 1
- Year 12 Exams – Monday 5 – Friday 16 October
- Year 10 Camp – Monday 12 – Friday 16 October
- Year 7 2021 Orientation Day – Monday 12 October
- PK-Y11 Commence Term 4 – Tuesday 13 October
Covid-19 Update
With the delay of moving to Phase 5 restrictions by the State Government, the following protocols will remain in place until 24 October.
- Assemblies and College community events : Whole school and campus assemblies are limited to ensure student numbers don’t exceed the 2m2 rule.
- Parent and caregiver meetings – Pre-arranged parent/caregiver meetings can proceed, adhering to physical distancing and hygiene protocols
- Parent and caregiver access – Parents are able to enter school grounds to drop off and pick up their children and to attend scheduled meetings with staff. Parents can enter classrooms at the invitation of the teacher.
Student attendance at school is compulsory, except for those who are recognised as medically vulnerable or who have medically vulnerable family members. If you are concerned about your own family situation, please contact Lisa Fogliani, Vice Principal for additional clarity and advice.
The Government has stressed the importance of Western Australians to continue to keep up physical distancing where possible and to maintain good personal hygiene to better protect ourselves and the general health of the community.
In addition, students will be continually and explicitly taught the importance of handwashing, physical distancing and observing personal hygiene to a high standard (as developmentally appropriate).
If Students are Unwell
We ask that students who are presenting with a fever or flu like symptoms stay at home until their symptoms are clear. It is the responsibility of all families to ensure they support the wider College community.
Our Commitment to Child Safety
The College is committed to providing an environment that is safe for all children. We actively work towards and promote the principles of the Catholic Education’s Child Safe Framework. The framework upholds a child safe culture, healthy and respectful relationships, and extended guardianship in school communities, based on the latest research and recognised best practices. At times, we rely on partnership with parents to ensure all members of our community are safe, supported and cared for. Thank you to community members that have positively and openly supported this intent. If you are concerned about a child, please communicate with Campus Leaders, Leaders of Wellbeing or any member of the Senior Leadership Team.
Code of Conduct
A reminder to all families that the Code of Conduct can be accessed via the College website. The Code is mandated by Catholic Education Western Australia and the application of the code extends to all staff, students, parents, guardians, caregivers and volunteers.
The Code seeks to value the dignity of every person, foster positive relationships, ensuring confidentiality and accountability and supports professional boundaries. Events held during school hours AND outside of school hours that are associated with the College are also supported by the Code of Conduct. Postings on social media platforms that identify the College or College events are also bound by the Code of Conduct.
Any perceived breaches of the Code can be discussed with any member of the Senior Leadership Team. We thank you in advance for your understanding and support of how we strive to partner positively with one another.
The 2020 PK-12 College Arts Festival “One Wild and Precious life” opens on Sunday October 25 with Divergence the Dance Showcase held in the Marist Auditorium. This is a ticketed event, due to COVID restrictions. Please book tickets through the College Website.
The Festival continues with the Marian Student Art Exhibition opening on Tuesday 27 September, and Lavalla and Marcellin Student Exhibitions opening on Wednesday October 28.
The Student Exhibitions will include a stunning display of student visual art and design work exhibited on the walls in the Marist Auditorium foyers, and in studio spaces. A craft installation activity, games and sausage sizzle will be run on the oval, hosted by our Student leaders for 2021, and supported by our hard working Arts Team and Festival Committee. Music performances also will be running through each event, featuring music students from respective campuses.
The Parent Soiree is back by popular demand, again featuring the talented line up of musicians from previous Soirees. Come and enjoy their contemporary playlist, canapes and beverages served by the College Senior Leadership team, while connecting with other parents in our PK-12 community. Book tickets through the College website
We invite our PK-12 families to attend their respective events this year as we work to celebrate our creative and Performing Arts programs as part of our 2020 Arts Festival, within social distancing guidelines.
Maree Grayden, Leader of Learning Arts PK 12
Parent Support / Volunteers Required – to hang art and serve food at the Parent Soiree
This event would not be possible without the support from our entire PK-12 College community, we are in need of a number of parent volunteers to assist in the following roles.
Hanging of the Student Art (Marist Auditorium)
We require 3–6 volunteers each day to assist the Art Teachers. We understand it may be difficult to commit to a full day, so 2–3 hours would be fantastic.
- Lavalla and Marcellin Campus Art – Monday 19th October, Tuesday 20th October and Wednesday 21st October between 9.00am and 3.00pm
- Marian Campus Art – Thursday 22nd October and Friday 23rd October (possibly) between 9.00am and 3.00pm
Parent Soiree
Volunteers to serve food, Friday 30 October, 6.00pm – 9.00pm (no experience necessary)
Your help would be greatly appreciated, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator, Janine Gatto if you are able to assist thegatts@iinet.net.au | Phone/Text 0418 935 122
Lavalla Athletics Carnival Records and Age Champions
Last week’s assembly provided the opportunity to recognise and celebrate the wonderful individual achievements of our Years 3-6 students from the Athletics Carnival.
We had two records broken on the day. Congratulations Ty Patterson Year 6 who broke the Year 6 Boys Turbo Jav with a throw of 32.62 metres and Maverick Patterson Year 3 who broke the Year 3 Boys Turbo Jav with a throw of 19.13 metres.
The Age Champions for each year group were also announced. Click here to see the full list of students.
IPSHA Athletics Carnival
On Thursday 17 September, the Interschool Athletics team competed in the IPSHA Athletics Carnival held at All Saints College. It was a fantastic day, with the Newman team achieving a lot of exceptional performances.
A highlight from the carnival was the final event of the day; the Year 6 100m Relay. All four students had competed in numerous events on the day and finished their final IPSHA Carnival with a wonderful win. Congratulations to the team of Sienna O’Rourke, Linus Keane, Hannah Seaborn and Cooper Trovarello.
A big thank you to Mrs Short and Jaxon Bilchuris for attending the day with the team and assisting the students with their events.
ACC Athletics Carnival
Our athletes battled extremely hard at this year’s A Division ACC Athletics Carnival and achieved our goal of remaining in A Division. This was a very pleasing result given our reduced squad this year. Click here to see all the results and more photos from the day.
First Aid
This Term, the Year 11 Edge class have been working hard in class learning first aid. On Monday the students sat their Senior First Aid certificate with Kevin Emery from West Coast Water Safety. Students were taught how to deal with fractures, bandaging, CPR and how to use the defibrillators. The highlight of the day was Lachlan Goddard and Ella Geoghegan scoring 100% in the CPR practical assessment. A big thank you to Kevin for coming in and working with our students.
Newman Water Polo Flippaball Program
Newman Churchlands Swimming Club
Fathers Day
Last weekend we celebrated Fathers Day, recognising the wonderful presence of fathers in our lives. Poignantly for myself, it has been a year since the passing of my father, Peter. His memory lives large in my thoughts on the influence he has had in my family’s life. A compassionate, faith filled man, full of hope and expectation of what was possible in the life we have been given. He empowered my siblings and me to strive to be our best, grounded in a humility that was focused on serving others.
On Thursday, Friday and Monday we enjoyed Fathers Day celebrations across the College. Breakfasts and the making of Fathers Day presents were the order of the day which gave our students the opportunity to give thanks and show love for their dads. On Friday morning our student led prayer in our Champagnat Chapel was centred on giving thanks for our fathers, beautifully led by Tiggy Connelly and Georgia Whitely. I commend the leadership of these two great young women who have led prayer consistently throughout the course of 2020. Their leadership has been exemplified by an ongoing commitment to create a space for hope and reflection for our College community. Please click here to view the latest liturgy.
Year 12 Industry Breakfast
Newman College hosted its annual Industry Breakfast for Year 12 students with alumni, industry partners and sponsors of Newman College. This event provided an opportunity to Year 12 students in their General and ATAR pathways to connect and be in discussion with people in various specialised fields. These included engineering, communications, commerce, science, arts, construction, architecture, mathematics, technology, human resources and education. The tenor of the occasion was engaging and insightful for our students in enabling them to feel confident about the possibilities of what the future may bring to them.
The great strength of our College is in how we have collaborated with families and students in determining their learning pathways in the senior school. Each pathway, be it ATAR or General, is of equal value as they meet the respective needs and aspirations of each student. Our College alumni, partners and sponsors were impressed with the high level of engagement and presentation of our students.
Opportunities such as these epitomize the intent of our Vision for Learning – Shine Through Discovery – that animates our students to believe that they are capable of harnessing their talents and making a difference to the world in which they live. In 2021, as part of our new Strategic Directions, a key Strategic Intent will be to leverage our Newman heritage by building our alumni database and utilising the high level of human and social capital that emanates from the work and lives of our past students. Click here to see highlights from the day.
College Archives
Further to our Strategic Priority, Leveraging Heritage, has been the curation of our College archives. We have entered into a partnership with the Perth Museum to review and enhance how we maintain and grow our archival resources. This has been an exciting initiative which is capturing the unique story of Newman College. Central to this project has been the digitalisation of College alumni that will enable us to develop a foundation in the year ahead. In addition, it has brought together the story of the Dominican, Brigidine and Marist charisms – the founding schools which is now Newman College.
Hale Leaders Breakfast
Newman College student leaders took time to visit Hale School last week attending their leadership breakfast. This was an opportunity to develop stronger relationship between the schools and also to gain insight to their student leadership program. What was significant was the high level of leadership and discussion that will enable further such events to take place into 2021.
Lavalla Athletics Carnival
Today we held our Lavalla Athletics Carnival, another great College event highlighted by the high level of participation of our students and support from their families.
We learn best when we are immersed in learning experiences that are active, engaged, meaningful and interactive. This could be through experiential learning, small team projects, exploration of current events, use of online and digital sources of information and excursions. This means that learning can happen everywhere, not just the classroom.
Last week our Graduating Class of 2020 participated in an Industry Breakfast which celebrated students engaging with leaders in their respective field to learn more about their vocation and career pathways. I extend my thanks to the professionals who attended the morning, Mr Thomas Wagner, Director of Engagement and Operations, Mrs Carla Pastorelli, Leader of Wellbeing Year 12, and Mr Justin Farley Pathways Coordinator for their initiative of this wonderful event.
R U OK? Day
On Thursday 10 September we acknowledged R U OK? Day which marks the national day of action when we are reminded that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” if someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs.
If you feel like something’s not quite the same with someone you know – there’s something going on in their life or you notice a change in what they’re saying or doing – trust that gut instinct and take the time to ask them “Are you OK?” If someone says they’re not OK, make time to listen, encourage action and check in. That conversation could change, or even save their life.
Staff and students wore yellow accessories to mark the occasion. Classroom teachers guided students through the importance of checking in with each other and our Wellbeing Captains organised games and activities on the Marcellin Campus to demonstrate the importance of coming together.
Click here for more information regarding this important day of action.
Awards Ceremonies 2020
Mindful of the current restrictions in place, the College is preparing and planning the best way to host respective Awards Ceremonies at the end of the year to maximise parent engagement, acknowledge the achievements of students and celebrate the 2020 school year.
Please save the following dates:
- Year 12 Graduation – Thursday 22 October, Optus Stadium
- Years 7-9 Awards Ceremony – Thursday 26 November, Marist Auditorium
- Years 10-11 Awards Ceremony – Thursday 26 November, Marist Auditorium
- Year 6 Celebration Assembly and Lavalla Awards – Tuesday 8 December, Marist Auditorium
Details of each event will be shared closer to the date
Covid-19 Update
With the delay of moving to Phase 5 restrictions by the State Government, the following protocols will remain in place until 24 October.
Assemblies and College Community Events
Whole school and campus assemblies are limited to ensure student numbers don’t exceed the 2m2 rule. Adult visitors and staff should maintain physical distancing where possible. The College will continue to enforce the 2m2 rule per adult for indoor spaces. All official visitors as per College guidelines are required to sign in.
Student Attendance
Student attendance at school is compulsory, except for those who are recognised as medically vulnerable or who have medically vulnerable family members. If you are concerned about your own family situation, please contact Lisa Fogliani, Vice Principal for additional clarity and advice.
Physical Distancing
The Government has stressed the importance of Western Australians to continue to keep up physical distancing where possible and to maintain good personal hygiene to better protect ourselves and the general health of the community.In addition, students will be continually and explicitly taught the importance of handwashing, physical distancing and observing personal hygiene to a high standard (as developmentally appropriate).
If Students are Unwell
We ask that students who are presenting with a fever or flu like symptoms stay at home until their symptoms are clear. It is the responsibility of all families to ensure they support the wider College community.
Our Commitment to Child Safety
The College is committed to providing an environment that is safe for all children. We actively work towards and promote the principles of the Catholic Education’s Child Safe Framework. The framework upholds a child safe culture, healthy and respectful relationships, and extended guardianship in school communities, based on the latest research and recognised best practices. At times, we rely on partnership with parents to ensure all members of our community are safe, supported and cared for. Thank you to community members that have positively and openly supported this intent. If you are concerned about a child, please communicate with Campus Leaders, Leaders of Wellbeing or any member of the Senior Leadership Team.
Code of Conduct
A reminder to all families that the Code of Conduct can be accessed via the College website. The Code is mandated by Catholic Education Western Australia and the application of the code extends to all staff, students, parents, guardians, caregivers and volunteers.
The Code seeks to value the dignity of every person, foster positive relationships, ensuring confidentiality and accountability and supports professional boundaries. Events held during school hours AND outside of school hours that are associated with the College are also supported by the Code of Conduct. Postings on social media platforms that identify the College or College events are also bound by the Code of Conduct.
Any perceived breaches of the Code can be discussed with any member of the Senior Leadership Team. We thank you in advance for your understanding and support of how we strive to partner positively with one another.
Blessed is the Father who shares his heart, lives his faith, gives his time and loves his family. The righteous walk in integrity, happy are the children who follow them! Proverbs 20:7
Fathers Day
Across our PK-12 community, fathers were celebrated and recognised for their service and guidance to their children. There was a sausage sizzle at Marian and a coffee cart at Lavalla. All three campuses recognised the important roles fathers and father figures play in the lives of young people and gave thanks to these men for all they offer in service to the family.
Commissioning of Eucharistic Ministers
On Thursday 3 September, 12 students were commissioned as they made a commitment to serve as Eucharistic Ministers for Newman College and their parish. Students went through a formation program with Br Terry before formalising their commitment in front of family, friends and the College Principal at our Thursday morning Community Mass.
Congratulations to Angela Kinneen, Danielle Wheeler, Fraser Whitely, Finn Tanham, Jeremy Butson, Lucy Brennan, Mia Bradshaw, Olivia Kojundzich, Olivia Mickelson, Sarah Kerr, Taylah Sadgrove and Tyler Connelly.
Years 8 and 9 Retreat Days
Our Years 8 and Year 9 students recently took part in retreat days to reflect on who they are and the person they are being called to be. Reflection days are part of our commitment to developing the wellbeing of the whole student. They challenge students to think about who they are, difficult issues they may be facing and an opportunity to ask questions about God in a safe environment.
On Friday 4 September the Year 9 students participated in their Retreat Day run by the 24/7 Youth Marist Team (YMT). The focus of the day was relationships with self, other and God. Students enjoyed spending the day with their peers and the YMT volunteers, engaging in reflective opportunities.
Corey from Year 9 shares his reflection;
“We had a really fun time getting to play games and talk to our friends for the whole day. We also learnt many important things about how to maintain relationships in our life.”
The Year 8 students were led by the YMT on the individual uniqueness each person brings to our community. Students were reminded that they have gifts to bring to their community and should not be afraid to let their gifts shine through and support each other in living life to the full.
Saskia Chesson reflects;
“Today we have had presenters from 24/7 YMT with us to help to build our faith. I really enjoyed the small group activities and listening to the presenter’s stories. The team building games were a highlight and we have all had a great day.”
Thank you to 24/7 and Youth Mission Team for their support of the faith life of our students.
Year 11 Service Learning
During extended PCG, Year 11 students engaged in a range of service outreach and advocacy programs. Students could choose from the following;
- Environmental outreach which involved collecting rubbish from around the school to ensure that it wouldn’t flow into our local water systems.
- Homeless services outreach which involved cooking 150 meals for two of the St Vincent de Paul homeless services in Perth.
- Letter writing activity where Newman College partnered with Connected Au to write letters to people living in Aged Care and disability communities across Australia.
- Presentations on practice advocacy with St Vincent de Paul and Mental Health advocacy to build better mentally healthy communities through the Bishop’s Social Justice Statement 2020-2021.
The students really appreciated the practical hands on aspect of the activities as well as the different ways of looking at advocacy through the presentations. It was a huge success and the students are already asking when we can do another activity like it. A massive thank you to all the teachers who ran the activities and Colin Krause from St Vincent de Paul.
Congratulation to the Year 11’s for demonstrating their Family Spirit and Love of Work and commitment to being the ‘good citizens’ St Marcellin calls us all to be.
Draw Near Program
This year, Newman College partnered with Our Lady of Good Counsel and St Dominic’s to aid families on bridging visas who do not have access to government support during the Covid-19 crisis. The program has come to its conclusion and a big thank you to our staff, students and families for all their generous donations.
A further thanks to our Remar, Gamechangers and Mini-Marist students who have worked tirelessly with Ms Short and Ms Hall to pack these hampers for the families.
Students Ella Hills, Molly Hills, Lucy Short & Tessa Hadfield share their reflections from being part of the Draw Near Program.
“On Tuesday 1 September we were privileged to join with students from St Dominic’s and Our Lady of Good Counsel to create and pack over 100 food hampers for people in our community who are in need. The three schools, along with St Dominic’s Parish, participated in the Draw Near Program and the food hampers will be donated to people seeking asylum.
We are very passionate about helping those in need and would like to thank all those in our community who assisted by donating to this important cause.”
Archbishop’s Special Project Lifelink Video
In 2019 Mitchell Harris, Charlotte Easden, Stephen Loreck and Elizabeth Adams were selected to participate in the Archbishop’s special project to create a new video to explain the purpose and history of Lifelink. Lifelink provides for the ongoing financial and promotional support of agencies established or assisted by the Church. The social service agencies respond immediately and compassionately to anyone who is in need and who reaches out for help. We see this act of reaching out as a practical demonstration of ‘Faith in Action’.
After two years of planning and filming, the project has come to its conclusion. Our school partnered with Iona, Holy Cross and Servite College to create a video that highlights the important work of Lifelink and the positive work of Catholic schools.
Quality Catholic Education Awards
Newman College has submitted an entry into The CEWA Quality Catholic Education Awards in the Catholic Identity section. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we embarked on a journey to reframe how we share our Catholic mission and identity. This saw the development of our Transforming Mission web series and Student-Led prayer. The project has been successful across the life of the College and the input from our Faith and Liturgy Captains will lead the continuation of this project into 2021 and beyond.
There is a People’s Choice Award where anyone can vote. I would appreciate if you would take the time to place your vote in support of our Faith and Liturgy Captains, Georgia Whitely and Tiggy Connelly, and in support of this project that seeks to develop and build the Catholic identity and mission of our College community.
Click here to place your vote.
Thank you for your support of our students and the faith life of our College.
Weekly Thursday Morning Community Mass (Champagnat Chapel – 8.10am – 8.35am)
All parents, guardians and families across our PK-12 College are invited to attend the weekly Thursday morning Mass. Our weekly Newman College Community Mass is an important way that we as a Catholic community seek to nourish and live-out our faith in community with one another.
