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From the Principal – Term 2 Week 8

Jenni Vile on 20/06/2025

Today, the Newman College community celebrated Champagnat Day. The Feast of St Marcellin Champagnat falls on 6 June every year. As this date always coincides with the Senior examination period, this week is our first opportunity back together as a full College Community to give thanks for the work of St Marcellin Champagnat and recognise in our school the great blessing of being a Marist community. Mass was celebrated across three venues, and the students were brought to reflect on the significance of Marcellin’s life and messages. Following Mass, we acknowledged long-standing staff who have served the College for 10, 20 and 25 years. A great feature of the day is awarding the Champagnat Awards to a student in each year, from Kindergarten to Year 12, and to staff whose example in our community reflects the Marist Characteristics and the legacy of St Marcellin Champagnat.  It is one of the most enjoyable moments in the school year. Congratulations to the students and staff who were acknowledged.  Along with the award, a certificate is presented with a beautiful citation on the reverse. The citations for students and staff are the real ‘gold’. Each highlights the way in which these community members lead in that very Marist way ‘Strong Minds, Gentle Hearts’.

A happy Feast of St Marcellin to us all!  Let us pray to Mary to know Jesus, remembering St Marcellin Champagnat’s words, “I can’t meet a young person without telling them how much God loves them. 

2025 Champagnat Award Winners

Year level Student 
Kindy Ruby Pember 
Pre-Primary Aurora Menzies 
Year 1 Caine Gallagher 
Year 2 Pia Martinovich 
Year 3   Finley Shephard 
Year 4   Mila Harris 
Year 5   Valentina Polizzi 
Year 6   Kyle Cowland 
Year 7   Samantha Fowler 
Year 8   Isla Kalebic 
Year 9   Angus Timcke 
Year 10   Sunny Ebert 
Year 11   Maya McIntyre-Llewellyn 
Year 12   Charlie Cossom 
Staff – Primary Lara Gray 
Staff – Secondary Anna Owen 
Staff – PK-12 Kate Robartson 

Connection in Faith 

Last Sunday, the Church celebrated Trinity Sunday. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are celebrated as one essence – this mystery of God: The Father’s love for his son, the son’s immense love for each one of us that he dies on a cross, and the Holy Spirit – the love and essence of God that he has left us through, with and in the world. The act of the Sign of the Cross is a recognition of this mystery and connection. We tap our forehead in recognition of God the Father, our hand placed on our chest is symbolic of the love of Jesus for us and touching each shoulder is our desire for the Holy Spirit to energise and guide our good works. It is a simple action where we make connection with God in what can be a pause through the busyness of the day.  

Connection in Community 

Tonight, we host the Newman College Community Quiz Night. Our Newman Parent Forum were instrumental in returning a great community night in the Quiz last year, and we are proud to host tonight’s fun gathering. Along with developing connections and relationships, we gather tonight in support of the Marist Solidarity Australia and Youth Focus. All funds raised will go to these two groups. Thank you to Jenni Vile, Community Relations, Karla Nessfield-Thomas, Events Manager, Wes Carren-Auditorium Technician, for their assistance in organising the event, the many parents and businesses who have donated items for the raffle draws, prizes and silent auction, and to those who have volunteered their time for set up and pack up and, staff member, Mr Matthew Box for his role as MC and Quiz Master.  Stay tuned for another great community event, which is planned around the Performing Arts in late Term 3. 

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL

Primary Update – Term 2 Week 8

Jenni Vile on 20/06/2025

4 Red Assembly

Last week, 4 Red led a wonderful assembly all about persistence. They shared stories of famous people who didn’t give up, even when things were hard.

We heard how J.K. Rowling was turned down by 12 publishers before Harry Potter became a huge success. Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Michael Jordan was cut from his school basketball team, but kept trying and became a star. Taylor Swift didn’t let early knockbacks stop her from chasing her music dreams.

4 Red reminded us that persistence is important for everyone, not just the famous. It helps us keep going when learning is tricky or when we face challenges.

Buddy Day

Today, we celebrated both Champagnat Day and Buddy Day, a significant day made even more special by welcoming our K–2 students to the Lavalla Campus, as we continue our journey towards becoming one community.

Despite the wet weather, spirits were high as our youngest students took part in an outdoor walk around the new building. This gave them a first glimpse of their future surroundings and, most excitingly, their new playgrounds! Thanks to gumboots and rain jackets, the rain became part of the adventure, with many students eagerly putting puddles to the test.

PK-2 Build Update

We are thrilled to be counting down the final weeks to the opening of our brand-new PK–2 building. The excitement is building across our community as we move closer to this exciting milestone.

This week, the campus has been buzzing with activity as delivery trucks arrived daily, bringing in beautiful new furniture and resources to help bring the learning spaces to life. It’s been wonderful to see the vision for our early years environment coming together, piece by piece.

We cannot wait to welcome our PK–2 students and families to the Churchlands site at the beginning of Term 3. We look forward to sharing this next chapter with you and to seeing our youngest learners thrive in their inspiring new space.

To help your child feel confident and prepared for the upcoming move to the Churchlands campus, we encourage you to read through this social story together. It’s designed to gently introduce the new environment, routines, and spaces in a way that supports a smooth and positive transition.

Just click here.

New finish time for PK and K from Term 3

To help ease traffic congestion and ensure there is adequate parking for all families during afternoon pick-up, we will be introducing a new home time for our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students from the beginning of Term 3.

Starting in Term 3, dismissal for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten will be at 2:45pm. This small adjustment will help stagger pick-up times across the school, making the process smoother and safer for everyone.

We appreciate your support and understanding as we make this change to improve the overall experience for our families and to support the safe and efficient operation as we move to being one campus, one community.

Pupil Free Day PK-2 – Friday 4 July

To facilitate the setup of classrooms and unpacking of boxes in readiness for the start of Term 3, Friday 4 July will be a Pupil Free Day for all PK-2 students. OSH Club is running a vacation care day on this day. To book your child into OSH Club on this day, please contact OSH Club directly https://www.oshclub.com.au/find-us/newman-college/

Mission Update – Term 2 Week 8

Jenni Vile on 20/06/2025

I have been lucky enough to be involved in a couple of retreats recently – one as a participant, and another as a facilitator at our recent Year 12 retreat. Both were deeply meaningful experiences. I’ve come to realise that, whatever side of the fence you find yourself on, there is always something to be gained through retreat. Whether you are stepping away for your own renewal or walking alongside others in their experience, the retreat space offers something sacred.

I really value the opportunity to attend retreats – to take a step back from the fullness of life and focus on my own spiritual nourishment. It gives me time to reset, space to see things more clearly, and often a renewed sense of purpose or commitment to a wellbeing or spiritual practice.

We know the benefits of stepping back. Whether it’s five minutes in the morning before the day begins, a quiet moment in nature, a prayer before a meal, or a longer retreat experience – carving out intentional time to be still, to listen, to reflect, or to simply be – is vital.

Our lives are full. But we are not meant to pour from an empty cup. Creating space for retreat – however big or small – is one of the most life-giving things we can do, not only for ourselves, but for the people around us. Where are those moments for you? And if they don’t yet exist, where, perhaps, could you make space for some?

Champagnat Awards

This morning, we celebrated a very special occasion in our school, with our 2025 Champagnat Awards. These are the students and staff who embody the heart of our Marist charism, bringing our Marist characteristics of presence, simplicity, love of work, family spirit, and In the Way of Mary each and every day. These students and staff are not the type to seek the spotlight, but their impact is felt in the way they live amongst our community, making Jesus known and loved through their small daily actions. I thank each of them for the witness they give to our shared mission, and for the way they help shape our College into a place where Gospel values are truly lived.

Parent Formation

Just a reminder to all families, it is not too late to register for our parent formation evening. This casual evening, with food and drinks, is a lovely way to explore our Marist charism and get a sense for what it means to be part of our Newman College community.

From the Principal – Term 2 Week 6

Jenni Vile on 06/06/2025

Dear Newman College Families, 

Welcome to our latest edition of Newman News 

Feast Day of Saint Marcellin Champagnat  

Today we celebrate the Feast day of Saint Marcellin Champagnat in honour of the founder of the Marist Brothers, whose mission was the make Jesus Christ known and loved. As a College community, we will be honouring Champagnat Day on 20 June. 

As part of our celebrations, the College is hosting a Marist Parent Formation Evening In the Footsteps of Marcellin on Wednesday 25 June from 6:00pm-7:00pm in the Champagnat Chapel.  

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the Marist values that shape our College – Simplicity, Presence, Family Spirit, Love of Work, and following In the Way of Mary, and how these continue to guide our community today.  

I encourage you to attend this relaxed evening that will explore how the spirit of St Marcellin Champagnat lives on in our shared mission to form young people as good Christians and good citizens. 

More about this event, along with information about the Feast Day of St Marcellin Champagnat, can be found in the Mission section of this newsletter. 

National Sorry Day / Reconciliation Week 

We have just finished our observance of National Reconciliation Week at Newman College. Our students spent the time looking at what acts they could do to promote reconciliation and to walk with others. From being involved in seed planting initiative, to Year 12 Leaders discussing National Reconciliation Week at the recent Celebration Assembly, our students experienced what it means to make a commitment to reconciliation and growing together. They learned that ‘sorry’ is not about taking personal blame, but about acknowledging the pain of the past and committing to a more just and compassionate future. We stand in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait peoples and continue to learn, listen and walk together toward healing.   

Cooking with Compassion 

Recently, Year 12 students led the way by putting their skills to work in the service of others. Shopfront is a Catholic Archdiocese of Perth support service for people experiencing homelessness and hardship. Our students prepared a number of pasta meals and muffins for distribution through Shopfront. Great work by Newman College students and staff!  

Marist Netball Carnival 

You may have been following the Marist Netball team on our social media last week at the annual Marist Netball Carnival in Adelaide. Our team was made up of three Year 12 students, one Year 11 student and three from each of Year 10 and Year 9. Our senior netballers were magnificent in mentoring the younger players and the whole team played with great passion and determination. Against some outstanding teams from around the Marist schools in Australia, Newman College finished fifth in their division and did Newman College proud. Well done to all the players and to our coaches Ms Tiyana Kerimi and Ms Jorja Clark.  

Shine 

Our Shine program, which supports gifted and talented students, has featured heavily in recent weeks as they have engaged in some brilliant extended learning opportunities. Year 8 and 9 students worked alongside Murdoch University staff in challenges and forensic studies. Year 10 students visited the University of Western Australia to take their Problem-Based Learning session in Philosophy. The week concluded with 27 Newman College students from Year 6 to 12 competing in the World Scholar’s Cup. Newman College students competed against very talented students from across the metropolitan area and won a few trophies for their work. Thanks also to Ms Cate McKnight, Shine Co-ordinator, for all her work in assisting this learning.  

A Festival of Cross Country 

It has been a week of Cross-Country across both Primary and Secondary. We had 65 across Year 3-6 compete at the SSWA Cross Country event and the IPSHA Cross Country Carnival and 85 Secondary students across Year 7 to 12 compete at the All Schools Cross Country and ACC Cross Country events. Congratulations to all who competed. You have done Newman College proud. Thank you to our Sports teachers for running training since the beginning of the term.  Special mention to the following on some amazing results.

  • Under 19 Girls: Olivia Hilderbrandt placed 3rd, and Ava Stanley finished 11th
  • Under 19 Boys: Harrison Warwick claimed a strong 20th place
  • Under 16 Boys: Bastian Dominguez Rubina achieved an impressive 6th place
  • Under 15 Boys: Cooper Warrick placed 16th
  • Under 14 Boys: Taj Webster secured 15th place
  • Under 13 Boys: Jackson Piccoli came 15th and Julian Cameron 19th

Archbishops LifeLink Day 

This week, Newman College hosted the launch of the Archbishop’s LifeLink Day for Catholic Primary schools, with around 450 students in attendance from Catholic schools all across the Perth Diocese. Our Year 6 students listened to presentations from speakers about the important work all Catholic schools can contribute to in supporting the services of LifeLink for people in hardship and homelessness. There were great workshops held to discuss ideas and actions that each school can now go away and lead in their own communities.  

Year 8-9 Eagles Cup Football 

Quietly, the Year 8-9 Boys Football team has been building momentum and winning all their games since the beginning of the season. They have reached the finals after topping the Claremont Division. The Grand Final awaits them next term, so be sure to lend them your support when the fixture is posted. Congratulations boys! 

Newman Parents Forum Executive

We have a spot available on our Newman Parents Forum Executive Committee and we are looking for Expressions of Interest. If you are interested in joining or would like to find out further information about the role, please email andrew.watson@newman.wa.edu.au

Wishing everyone all the best for a restful weekend.  

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL

From the Vice Principal – Term 2 Week 6

Jenni Vile on 06/06/2025

Champagnat Day

Today marks the Feast Day of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers and the visionary behind Marist Education. Deeply committed to the needs of young people, particularly those who were poor and marginalised, Marcellin believed that to educate children effectively, one must first love them and love them equally. His legacy continues to inspire Marist schools around the world to nurture communities built on Presence, Simplicity, Family Spirit, Love of Work, and In the way of Mary.

To ensure all students have the opportunity to commemorate this special day, we will celebrate as a College on Friday 20 June. All students from Kindergarten to Year 12 will take part in a Mass or Liturgy, followed by the Annual Champagnat Awards. These awards honour students and staff who exemplify our Marist characteristics in their everyday actions, modelling the values and spirit of Marcellin Champagnat in our community. Primary students will also participate in a Lapathon to raise money for Lifelink.

A reminder that our K-Y2 students will spend the day at the Lavalla Campus. Pre-Kindergarten students will attend Marian Campus and their class as normal.

Further information on the day will be sent to families in the coming week. We look forward to coming together as a College to honour the life and mission of Saint Marcellin and to celebrate those in our community who live out his vision in meaningful and inspiring ways.

2026 Term Dates           

The 2026 Term dates have been finalised and can be accessed here.

Transperth Service Changes

To address the late arrival of the school specials Transperth will affect the following changes from 22 June 2025:

Route 422 

  • The service to Scarborough Beach Bus Station continuing as School Special 717 will now depart Karrinyup Bus Station at 7.38am.   

 School Special 717  

  • School Special 717 will now depart Scarborough Beach Bus Station at 7.57am.         

Carpark Courtesy

As a College, we have received several reports about dangerous behaviours in the Marcellin carpark.

I would like to take this opportunity to reinforce the expectations of carpark use:

  • Adhere to sign posted speed limits (8kph within the car park)
  • Do not stop in keep clear zones.
  • If you are dropping off or picking up students, pull into a bay or a ‘drop off/ pick up’ zone. Please do not stop in the middle of the carpark as this blocks traffic.
  • Adhere to any directive signage (give way, authorised access only, etc).

In the last newsletter I provided an update on the Lavalla Carpark Map and flow, in addition the above please observe the following when accessing this Carpark.

  • Please continue to clearly display your family names on the car dashboard if you are using the Kiss ‘N’ Ride service.
  • If your child is not ready for collection in the Kiss ‘N’ Drive zone, please continue through the loop and either rejoin the circuit or park in the Eastern section of the carpark.
  • Parents wishing to park should remain in the right lane and use the main carpark bays.
  • Please keep the left lane clear and moving to ensure traffic flows smoothly and to prevent cars from backing up onto Empire Avenue.

These small steps will ensure safety, a shared sense of courtesy, and will allow traffic to flow smoothly.

Newman Parents Forum

The Newman Parent Forum is an opportunity for parents to connect with College leadership and contribute to the life of the school. Held once per term, the Newman Parent Forum is led by the Principal and Vice Principal in collaboration with the Newman Parent K-12 Executive Committee.

The Newman Parent Forum works in partnership with the College Executive to support key events, advance the Strategic Plan, and advocate for both the College and its families within the school and wider community.

We encourage all parents to take part in these forums to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing growth of Newman College.

The next Newman Parents Forum is taking place this Monday 9 June at 6pm in the JHN Learning Hub. If you are unable to attend in person you can join online on Teams. The agenda and TEAMs link are in the key dates section. We hope to see you there!

Newman College Community Quiz Night

Our Community Quiz night is fast approaching and tables are selling fast. This year we are raising money for two very special causes.

  • Marist Solidarity – an aid organisation that provides education to young people in disadvantaged communities in our Province
  • Youth Focus – a not-for-profit working to improve the mental health and wellbeing of young Western Australians, by offering evidence-based, safe, high-quality services, at no cost.


As a Marist school, these are causes that are close to our hearts.

In addition to purchasing a table, you can also support these causes in the following ways:

  1. Prize Donations – Prizes that can be used in a raffle, including but not limited to – gift vouchers, hamper items, electronics and experiences.
  2. Event Sponsorship – There various sponsorship opportunities available, local businesses can be showcased, while contributing to this cause.
  3. Volunteering – Assist various tasks on the evening, as well as setup and pack down.

Please contact Jenni Vile, Marketing Officer (jenni.vile@newman.wa.edu.au), if you are interested in assisting.

Your generosity and support will be instrumental in contributing to this unforgettable evening and ensuring that we can maximise our fundraising efforts.

Mr Michael Chiera

VICE PRINCIPAL