This week we celebrated Miracle on Bethlehem Street on our College oval for our PK-6 community. The children emanated joy and fervour as they all took part in the story of the birth of Jesus Christ. Click here to see more photos from the event.
The significance of this historical event defined the world in which we now live as a Catholic community. During this Advent season, we await the coming of Christ and with it the expectations of new life and a new beginning. In an increasingly secular time, our Christmas liturgy was a timely reminder of the importance of what it means to be part of a family. The love and care within each family is critical in the lives of our children and our greatest illustration of this is the story of a young couple from rural Israel searching for a place, a room at an inn for the birth of their child. Christmas is a special time in my own family particularly as most of my extended family live in the Eastern States. For Anita, the children and I, the opportunity to celebrate the birth of Christ at our local parish brings much love, hope and joy to our little family. The giving of presents of course is a highlight as it represents the appreciation, value and love we have for each other. I encourage all families to take the time to visit their local parish to celebrate Christmas Mass. This is a special time of year for all Christians and for all families. Enjoy the time together!
Marist Schools Australia Annual Awards
Last week, Marist Schools Australia presented awards for Outstanding Contribution to Marist Education. Our very own Tony and Pauline Murphy were two members of the Marist network to receive this award this year. Tony and Pauline exemplify what it is to be Marist, and as such met the criteria for this award:
- A contribution to Marist education beyond the ordinary. Such significance would be evident through the personifying of a characteristically Marist approach to ministry over a long period, service above and beyond what would be expected, and/or a major contribution to a particular Marist project or initiative;
- Evidence of spiritual identification with the deep purposes of Marist education.
I welcome parents and guardians to read the citation that was read at the MSA Awards Ceremony in Melbourne on 30 November.
Download The Murphy’s Appreciation for Outstanding Contribution to Marist Education Citation
College Awards
At a local level, today we celebrated the Years 7-11 Awards for the academic, cultural and sporting pursuits of students. Congratulations to all award recipients who were recognised in their commitment, efforts and achievements throughout the year. Click here for the full list of award recipients and more photos from the event.
At our Awards Assembly, I reflected on the recent Philippines Immersion where we visited children who do not have the same rights and privileges as those who live in the Western Suburbs of Perth. I asked our students to view their education as a precious gift and to embrace the opportunities afforded to them to enhance their Newman College experience.
Download Principal’s Years 7-12 Awards Speech
We now look forward to our Lavalla Awards Ceremony on Tuesday 10 December.
As we close the school year, we look back on the myriad events and activities that took place and I thank the students for immersing themselves in all that was offered. I implore parents and guardians to read the 2019 Yearbook which captures so beautifully a great snapshot of the year. (The Yearbook will be distributed on Tuesday 10 December).
I would like to wish each family a blessed and joy-filled Christmas with family and friends. I ask that you take the time to reflect on the purpose of the Christmas season and the hope that it brings.
The season of Advent is a joyous time of year and in the primary years we are able to celebrate in a multitude of ways. This week’s Primary Christmas Concert; Miracle on Bethlehem Street enabled all students to engage in the Gospel stories of Christmas through a new medium; and class teachers work beautifully through their Religious Education curriculum to support the teaching and learning programs for students. Advent is a time of anticipation for the arrival of Jesus, celebrating the season of giving. I would like to thank all families for their contributions to the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal collection.
I would like to acknowledge the wonderful students of the 2019 Student Council for their contribution to the campus, wider primary and College, through areas of service throughout the year. It is a privilege in my role each year to work with the Student Council, and this year’s group of students have made me so proud. Their commitment to working together as a team, their growth and development as leaders, and their genuine care and consideration for each other, myself and the wider student and staff community, has been a delight to witness. Thank you to: Addison Blizzard, Leyla Do, Maddy Carroll, Ella Rose, Matt Pyne, Jasmin Afflick, Stefan Constantine, Will Gilbert, Kai Ehlers, Stefano Rapanaro, Harrison Warrick, and Harry Prentice.
As this is my final newsletter, I would like to take the opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to all families, both of the current Lavalla community but also to all those whom have been such a key part in making my experience at Newman College so valuable over the past ten years. I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of students in my time here and I am incredibly grateful to have been able to witness them learn and grow over the years. I consider myself so fortunate to have been a part of the Newman College staff, especially the Lavalla staff. My colleagues have been, and are, an amazing group of people who are committed to their jobs as educators but also genuinely care for students and are able to approach each day with a sense of humour and pride in what they do. So, thank you all – students, staff, and parents – for being such a supportive and special part of my day-to-day life over the past ten years. I am looking forward to my next new challenge but will miss you all greatly.
Wishing you all a safe and holy Christmas and a happy New Year.
Primary Christmas Concert; Miracle on Bethlehem Street
Wednesday evening’s performance was a true showcase of our PK-Y6 community coming together in celebration of our children, our faith and our talents. The evening was a team effort, led by the amazing Mrs Nicole Boddy and Mrs Amy Raveendrakumar, supported by Ms Lucy Zambonetti and the Year 5 Red students who led the dramatic action – what a superstar group! Thank you to all staff, particularly the technical and stage support and the College Arts Department, for their contributions to the evening which was the culmination of an enormous amount of work over the term.
The children were absolutely beautiful and certainly let their light shine. Thank you to the families for your efforts in dressing your children in costume for their role also. Click here to see more photos from the night.
WEEK 9 CELEBRATIONS
Lavalla Awards Ceremony
On Tuesday 10 December, the Lavalla Campus will celebrate the conclusion of 2019 with an acknowledgement of the Year 6 Unit and award recipients from Years 3 – 6.
This event will take place in the Marist Auditorium. All students are to wear their full summer uniform on Tuesday (the Year 3 students may bring their sport uniform and bathers to change into for their Pool Party after the ceremony).
Parents of Year 6 cohort and Years 3-5 award recipients have been invited to attend the celebration and seating is by invitation only due to the limited space in the Auditorium. I would like to thank in advance the Year 5 parents who are providing the morning tea for our Year 6 parents. Also, particular thanks go to the Year 6 teaching team, Mrs Renae Zelich, Mrs Therese Le-Sanders, Mrs Jane Short and Mrs Erica Horn, for their efforts in the organisation of the Awards Ceremony. Thank you also to Mrs Kerry Martin and to the many staff who have contributed to the event.
After the Awards Ceremony, our Year 6 students will be visiting the Kindy classes at Marian Campus for a Godly Play session. This was a much-loved event last year and I know all of the students are looking forward to it this year. Year 6 parents please ensure you have given permission on the Consent2Go for your child to attend.
Pool Parties
Students in Years 3 – 5 will enjoy their Pool Party at the Newman College pool on the following days:
- Year 3 – Tuesday 10 December, 11.00am – 3.00pm
- Year 4 – Wednesday 11 December, 11.00am – 3.00pm
- Year 5 – Thursday 12 December, 11.00am – 3.00pm
Students must attend school in their school uniform. They will be able to change into their bathers prior to 11.00am and will change back into their school uniform for the end of the day.
Students will require the following:
- Bathers / Board Shorts (these do not have to be College bathers)
- Rash Shirt (this does not have to be the College rash shirt)
- Goggles (optional)
- Towel
- Thongs
- Sunscreen
- Hat (this does not have to be the College hat)
- Swimming Bag / Waterproof bag for wet items
PLEASE ENSURE ALL BELONGINGS ARE CLEARLY LABELLED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME.
PLEASE NOTE: The cut-off for Flexischools for all Pool Party orders has closed. If you have not ordered from the special meal deal then students will need to bring their own packed lunch.
Adventure World – Year 6
Students in Year 6 will celebrate their final day of Primary School with an excursion to Adventure World on Thursday 12 December. Details have been communicated to families on Consent 2Go.
Lost Property
Next week is the final chance to reclaim any lost property. Please see the lost property as there is an enormous amount of clothing and equipment there.
On Wednesday 4 December, our K-Y6 community joined together to celebrate the Christmas season at the annual Primary Christmas Concert.
Our celebrations commenced with Christmas Carols sung by our Years 6, 7 and 8 students and a Noongar Christmas Carol ‘Djinda Djinda’ sung by our Kindy and Year 6 students.
Miracle of Bethlehem Street opened on the streets of Bethlehem, and the little town had never been busier! Ceasar’s Census had the town in a frenzy, and the Innkeeper Benjamin had a brilliant plan to capitalise on the business, that is until he was reminded of the true meaning of Christmas. Well done to all performers from Pre Primary – Year 6 who captured our hearts in this joyous, musical retelling of the Christmas Story. The performance was a true showcase of our K-Y6 community coming together in celebration of our children, our faith and our talents.
The message of Christmas has been celebrated across the College and we are enormously proud of how students have reflected on the hope and joy that this time of year brings. The spirit of giving has been embraced through the Christmas Appeal and I hope that each student and family feel the joy the act of giving can make to others over this festive season.
K-Y11 Reports
College reports will be made available to families via SEQTA from 4.00pm on Thursday 12 December. We recommend you check that you are able to access SEQTA before this date.
Click here to access SEQTA. You can also access SEQTA via the Engage App.
If you have forgotten your login:
RESETTING YOUR PASSWORD
- Click on ‘Forgot your Password’
- Enter your email address for BOTH your username and email address (ie: your username is now your email address)
- Click on ‘Reset my Password’
- You will be emailed a link to reset your password
- NOTE: the reset link will only last one hour
Historically, reports were the main communication piece between school and home however, now with platforms such as SEQTA, Seesaw and Maths Pathways, feedback regarding the learning journey of each child is continuous and ongoing in nature. The achievement standard as mandated by the Schools Curriculum and Standards Authority, describes an expected level that the majority of students are achieving or working towards by the end of that year of schooling. Some students will have progressed beyond the achievement standard; others will need additional support. The expected standard for each year is described as ‘C’ or Satisfactory.
I encourage all families to use the report as a tool for reflection, acknowledge the learning growth and resilience of your son or daughter and the opportunities each new year brings.
Staff Movements
As the 2019 academic year draws to a close, several staff will leave our community to serve as teachers and leaders in other Catholic school communities. We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the following staff who have served the Newman College community for a significant period of time; Mandy Keeling, (Student Data Administrator), Janine van der Heever, (Teacher of Mathematics), Tavia Pursell, (Teacher of English), Aaron Richards, (Leader of Learning Literacy), Kate Warchomij, (Leader of Wellbeing Primary), Nicola Garlick, (Teacher of Mathmatics and English), Steven Gregory, (Leader of Learning Health and Physical Education).
This year we also farewell and acknowledge the vocation, service and contribution of the following staff who are retiring and have made significant contributions to the College community and the Marist project:
- Jenny Lindsay, (Religious Education Teacher), 39 Years
- Terri White, (Education Assistant), 31 ½ Years
- Mary-Ann Burchfield, (Library Technician), 20 Years
We extend our thanks to the following members of staff who have served our College community throughout 2019.
Marcellin Campus: Jessica Bouquet, Natalee Calegari, Belinda Fogliani, Emily Longo and Michelle Wells, Lavalla Campus: Davina Sankar, Marian Campus: Jenni Brown, Maddie Ciullo and Katherine Closey.
We also wish several members of staff well as they embark on a period of extended leave in 2020; Margaret Goldsmith, Bethwyn Legg, Allison McCartan, Pauline Murphy, Tony Murphy, Nadia Napoli, Edwina Russek and Rosa Testa.
Our prayers and thoughts go to Stephanie-Kate Crothers, Ellie Jeffcoat-Sacco, Emily Watts and Lisa Webb who will all take parental leave in 2020.
Gratitude
Thank you to families, parents and carers for your support and partnership throughout the 2019 school year. A positive school experience for young people is sustained by respectful relationships and cooperation. It is a great privilege to be involved in the lives of young people and we thank you for your trust in the College to nurture your son’s and daughter’s development and growth. I also offer my most sincere gratitude to teachers and support staff for their commitment to walking with families through times of challenge, celebration, sadness and joy. Thank you for giving witness to our Catholic faith, for being positive role models and for ensuring our students shine through discovery!
Booklists, eBooks and BYODD
Booklists and eBook bundles are now available on the College website. The College partners with OfficeMax to provide school supplies and resources. eBook bundles for Years 7-10 are managed and supported by the College ITC team to ensure a positive experience for students.
Click here to access the portal to purchase the nominated devices. The College partners with Winthrop Australia to ensure the best value for families, including insurance, protection and replacement provision.
2020 Class Placements and Secondary Timetables
Primary class lists and teacher allocations will be communicated to families via SEQTA by the end of Monday 16 December.
Many factors are considered when selecting class placements for students and each child’s needs are considered when these decisions are made. Class lists are a team decision made in consultation with all teachers and support staff. Our aspiration is that every child is placed where they will have the greatest opportunity to succeed.
Secondary timetables will be available to students via SEQTA on Tuesday 31 January 2020. Year 7 students will have a comprehensive induction program to support them during their introduction to Secondary School.
Lavalla Playground 2020
We are excited to announce the development of two new play areas at the Lavalla Campus. This will include a nature play zone, with an adjacent playground with modular play equipment. These new spaces are the result of a long term commitment from the Primary Social Committee, as well as our ongoing obligation to continue to provide improved spaces for students at Lavalla.
The professionally designed areas have been created to allow for staged growth. The images below highlight the intended installation during the upcoming school holidays, and the future development plans beyond next year.
Students will have something new and exciting to look forward to upon their return to Lavalla in 2020.
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. 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.
Advent Season
“Christmas is about the mystery of the divine found within the human ~ GOD entering our everyday life! Because Jesus Christ was born into our world in a normal human way, all our ordinary human activities are made holy.”[1] Our 2019 Marist theme of Holy Today! has been an invitation to tune-in more to the presence of God in everyday life. That is, to recognise the ‘sacred’ or presence of God in the beautiful ordinariness of life.[2]. During Advent and Christmas, we are once again invited to take up this challenge.
On Sunday 1 December, we celebrated the beginning of Advent. Advent comes from the Latin word meaning “coming.” Jesus is coming, and Advent is intended to be a season of preparation for His arrival. It is the season when we intentionally practise hope, when we consciously act for justice, when we joyfully live in expectation of promises fulfilled.
We see this ‘hope’ exemplified in our Mother Mary. Mary is the model of a Church who looks towards Jesus and works to create the kind of world that Jesus proclaimed in the Gospels[1]. This Term has seen the students at Newman College work to create a world proclaimed by Jesus through supporting the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. These simple acts of generosity and kindness demonstrate that we are a people of hope; a people who walk in the light because at Christmas “Jesus Christ has entered our story and saved us from the darkness! [1]
Imagine if we were to live always as if walking in the light!” [1]
[1] Brisbane Catholic Education. (n.d.) Advent / Christmas. Retrieved from: https://www.bne.catholic.edu.au/formationandleadership/prayer/Pages/Advent-prayer.aspx
[2] Marist Mission and Life Formation. (2019). 2019 Theme Resource. Retrieved from: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/51240d5fe4b03a5603cfea56/t/5c5255ca4d7a9c391e43d880/1548899817693/2019+Theme+Resources+%28Page%29.pdf
St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal
The annual St Vincent de Paul Society Christmas Appeal provides hope, comfort and dignity to over 3000 families in Western Australia who will be struggling during the Christmas season. As a Catholic school educating in the Marist Tradition, Newman College sought to reach out and serve those in our community following the example set by Jesus in the Scriptures:
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink…Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters, you did for me.”
Matthew 25: 35;40
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed so generously to the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. All three campuses were inundated with donations towards the appeal, meaning that many families will be assisted this year. The donations from Marian and Lavalla Campuses will be donated to the Floreat Conference of St Vincent de Paul. Whilst the donations from Marcellin Campus will be donated to the Doubleview conference.
Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) – 8-10 December
The Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) will be held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre between Sunday 8 and Tuesday 10 December. ACYF is a national gathering of Catholic young people which occurs every two years, and is a unique national context in which young people (14 – 30 years of age) from across Australia are invited to encounter and celebrate the vitality of the Catholic Church in Australia through providing young people with a tangible connection to vocations, social action, liturgy and prayer, Catholic music and catechesis. Newman College will be taking 26 students from Years 9 to 12 and 7 staff to the festival. On Monday 9 December, Newman College will host a Justice Centre activity called Caring for the Forgotten. The activity is an opportunity to uphold the dignity of youth in detention and remind them that they are not forgotten. Those attending the activity will make Christmas cards for youth at Banksia Hill Detention Centre in conjunction with Catholic Prison Ministry who will run a similar session to make Christmas trees to accompany the cards.
Prior to the commencement of ACYF on Sunday 8 December, Newman College will co-host the Diocese of Wollongong in New South Wales who will attend a Mass and sausage sizzle at St Joseph’s, Subiaco on Saturday 7 December. Click here for more information about ACYF.
The ACYF Closing Mass is open to the general public and is free to attend. Parents and families are therefore welcome to attend the Mass. The ACYF Outdoor Mass will be held on Tuesday 10 December 2019 at Trinity College, 2 Trinity Avenue, East Perth. Gates open at 4.00pm with pre-Mass entertainment commencing at 4.30pm. The Mass will commence at 6.30pm. As large numbers are anticipated to attend, we encourage guests to arrive early to allow time to make your way into the venue, find a viewing area and enjoy the outdoor Mass atmosphere.
Final Community Mass
The final Community Mass at Newman College will take place on Thursday 12 December at 8.10am in the Champagnat Chapel. All are encouraged and welcome to attend our final Sacramental celebration as a College before concluding 2019.
Philippines Immersion
The 2019 Philippines Immersion was once again a memorable experience for Year 11 students from Newman College and St Joseph’s School, Northam. It challenged the group to develop a better understanding of our privilege and to be grateful for the things we have. Click here to read more and see more photos from the trip.
24:7 FLOREAT YOUTH GROUP
- For all youth in Years 6-12
- Every Sunday from 6.00pm – 8.00pm at St Cecilia’s Parish Centre, 47 Peebles Road, Floreat
- Call Sebastian on 0403230395 or Emma on 0412310019 for more information.
Volunteers – Adoration Chapel, Holy Spirit Parish
Holy Spirit Parish in City Beach are looking for volunteers to help man the 24-hour Adoration Chapel at the Parish. If you are interested in finding out more information, please contact Lisa Hogg on 0419923420.
Save the Date – Newman Parents Welcome Sundowner 2020
Click here to purchase tickets.
Celebration of Learning
Congratulations to all students who showcased their gifts and talents at the end of year Music Performances and Concerts. The confidence and improvement all students have demonstrated in their performances reflects their commitment to rehearsal, learning, perseverance and determination. Thank you to all families for encouraging their children to engage with the many opportunities available at the College and for supporting their child’s involvement in the Music Program.
Our Marist Family
Our Marist tenant, Family Spirit, calls us to community with one another, to encourage leadership based on shared responsibility and to give preferential attention to those whose needs are greatest. Tomorrow 14 of our Year 11 students, together with staff and students from St Joseph’s Northam, embark on immersion as pilgrims; working in solidarity with the people of the Philippines.
A group of student leaders will travel to Melbourne to gather with student leadership teams from Marist schools to collaborate and learn from one another and our Marist Cricket Team will travel to Lismore for the annual Cricket Carnival. The responsibility and privilege to give witness to the Marist project is an honour and we wish our pilgrims, leaders and athletes all the very best and safe travels on their respective journeys.
End of Year Awards and Celebration Ceremonies
Families are welcome to attend the following assemblies that will acknowledge the contribution of all students of our thriving College community and recognise the achievements of students on their learning journey:
- Marian Assembly (Year 2 Celebration) – Friday 29 November, 8.45am, Marian Campus, Brigidine Hall
- K-6 Christmas Concert; Miracle on Bethlehem Street – Wednesday 4 December, 5.00pm, Marcellin Oval
- Marian Campus Pre Primary Christmas Liturgy – Friday 6 December, 9.00am, St Cecilia’s Church
- Years 7-11 Awards Ceremony – Friday 6 December, 1.00pm, College Gymnasium, Marcellin Campus (Parents of Award winners will be notified prior to the event)
- Lavalla Campus Awards Ceremony – Tuesday 10 December, 9.00am, Marist Auditorium (Parents of Award winners will be notified prior to the event)
End of Year Reporting- Parent Seqta Access
To access your child’s report, please click here to login to Seqta.
If you have forgotten your login:
RESETTING YOUR PASSWORD
- Click on ‘Forgot your Password’
- Enter your email address for BOTH your username and email address (ie: your username is now your email address)
- Click on ‘Reset my Password’
- You will be emailed a link to reset your password
- NOTE: the reset link will only last one hour
Families not returning to Newman College in 2020 must download students reports from the SEQTA portal, before the end of the year. Access to the SEQTA platform will be denied for families not currently enrolled at the College.
Booklists and Devices, 2020
Booklists
Booklists and eBook bundles will be published to families in Week 8. The College partners with OfficeMax to provide school supplies and resources. EBook bundles for Years 7-10 are managed and supported by the College’s ICT Department to ensure a positive experience for students.
Devices
The College partners with Winthrop Australia to ensure the best value for families for the supply of devices that include extended warranty and damage replacement.
Unfortunately, the Surface Pro 6 i5 model with 128GB of storage listed in previous correspondence at $1680 is no longer available from Microsoft. It has been superseded by the latest and higher performing Surface Pro 7 with 128GB of storage at a slightly higher price of $1795. The only Surface Pro 6s available are those with 256Gb of storage at $2051.
Newman College recommends The Surface Pro 7 Bundle featuring Windows 10 Pro, plus Keyboard, Pen, ruggedized cover and three-year warranty and two claims. Please note retail options are typically quoted with Windows Home Edition do not include the three-year accidental damage warranty.
Click here to access the online purchasing portal.
For further Information Contact the Leader of ICT Tom Brajdic tom.brajdic@cewa.edu.au or 92049474
Primary Class Lists
Primary class lists and teacher allocations will be communicated to families via SEQTA by the end of Term 4.
Many factors are considered when selecting class placements for students and each child’s needs are considered when these decisions are made. Class lists are a team decision made in consultation with all teachers and support staff. Our aspiration is that every child is placed where they will have the greatest opportunity to succeed.
Secondary Timetables
Secondary timetables will be available to students via SEQTA on 31 January 2020. Year 7 students will have a comprehensive induction program to support them during their introduction to Secondary School.
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. 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.
As the season of Advent approaches, we look forward to celebrating the coming of Christ with eager anticipation. Christmas is a wonderful time for celebration and as we move towards the final three weeks of the 2019 school year, we also look forward to celebrating all that our students have achieved over this academic year.
This time of year is incredibly special for our Year 6 students who are preparing to move into the next phase of their education, and I look forward to sharing this time of transition with them. 2019 has been a wonderful year for our Year 6 cohort, they are an incredible group of young people of whom we can all be very proud. Their upcoming end of year celebration is certainly well-deserved.
There are many events and celebrations in the coming weeks and I look forward to seeing you all to share in the festivities.
Digital Citizenship and Cybersafety
In the highly advanced digital world that we live in, children are met with new technologies, and the challenges which go along with them, at a regular and fast pace.
We have become increasingly aware of primary students using social media applications. Most of these applications have a minimum age of 13, some even extend this to include requiring parental consent for use up to 18 years of age. We strongly recommend that parents enforce these age restrictions with their children’s app use, as well as remain proactive in monitoring children’s devices and internet access. Particular applications we suggest parents be aware of include, but are not limited to:
- Tik Tok
- SnapChat
- Kik
Students receive Cybersafety and Digital Citizenship lessons as part of the Keeping Safe Child Protection Curriculum mandated in schools, and these lessons are also often integrated across many learning areas. While we take our responsibility for this education seriously, it is essential that these conversations continue at home. This year we have been lucky enough to welcome both Dr Justin Coulson and Susan McLean to our community, who have shared great insight into meeting these challenges as a school and as parents. There are many resources available to support families in navigating Cybersafety and Digital Citizenship, we strongly recommend you access these online resources:
eSafety Commission – https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents
Dr Justin Coulson’s blog – https://www.happyfamilies.com.au/blog/technoference-the-digital-world-and-our-kids/
https://www.happyfamilies.com.au/blog/body-cyber-safety-pre-arm-protect-children/
Susan McLean’s website – https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au/parents/
Lavalla Campus Assembly
2020 Student Council
Today’s Assembly included the announcement of the 2020 Student Council. I congratulate each of our future student leaders and thank the wonderful group of Year 6 student leaders of 2019. The 2020 Student Council members are:
Hannah Seaborn, Oliver Groughan, Ruby Hankinson, Ty Patterson, Jessica Bourke, Oliver Howson, Sofia Micillo, Will Murphy, Ella Hills, James Bornmann, Charli Kinner and Linus Keane.
Year 3 Blue Item
Today’s final assembly for 2019 celebrated the gifts and talents of students in Year 3 Blue as the class presented their item around the theme of Reducing, Reusing and Recycling for the benefit of our planet. Their play showcased some amazing acting and dancing talent, with students also displaying some of their musical instruments made from recycled materials.
A big congratulations to Year 3 Blue and Mr Elliott for their fantastic presentation today.
Primary School Disco Highlights
On Friday 8 November, the Marian Hall was transformed for the Primary School Disco. We had a fabulous turnout with 440 students (Pre Primary – Year 6) dancing up a storm in their best fluro outfits. The DJ kept the kids moving and grooving with some even taking the stage to sing their favourite songs.
A special thanks to the Primary Social Committee, parent volunteers and teachers for making the disco possible.
“The disco was fun because everyone was dancing, and it was so loud because everyone was screaming. I had so much fun with my friends.” Ivana Lin, Year 3 Student
Marcellin Award
Sasha Augustus, Year 5 Green – Sasha has been recognised as someone who consistently supports her peers both in class with their academic work, as well as with their social interactions and wellbeing. She is someone who does not judge others, but rather is accepting of all she meets and treats everyone with genuine kindness and respect.
Sasha is reliable and has been described as an excellent role model for her peers. Younger students look up to her due to the example she sets. Whilst Sasha is not perfect, none of us are, on the rare occasion she may make a mistake and she is someone who owns up to her error in judgement and strives to make things right and learn from her experiences.
Sasha is someone who takes initiative; she is not someone seeking recognition or praise, rather simply seeing a need and acting on it without being asked. She is described as someone who makes any room brighter with her laughter, positivity and encouragement. The College is incredibly proud to present this award to such a deserving recipient
The Marcellin Award at Lavalla is presented at campus assemblies to one student selected by the Leadership Team from submitted nominations.
Latest Sport News
- IPSHA Athletics Carnival
- IPSHA Touch Rugby Carnival
Upcoming Events
Swimming Lessons
Students in Years 3 – 6 will be participating in daily swimming lessons from Monday 25 November until Thursday 5 December. The swimming lessons are conducted by qualified swimming instructors provided by Newman Churchlands Swimming Club. Lessons have been scheduled between 9.20am and 11.55am. Please avoid making external appointments for your child during these lesson times.
Parents are not permitted within the swimming pool area during lessons.
Equipment
- Students will require the following:
- Bathers (College uniform)
- Rash Shirt (College uniform)
- Goggles (optional)
- Towel
- Thongs
- Sunscreen
- Swimming Bag / Waterproof bag for wet items
PLEASE ENSURE ALL BELONGINGS ARE CLEARLY LABELLED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME.
Students must arrive at school in their school uniform. It is recommended that Lavalla students wear their bathers under their uniform to school. Once they return to the campus from their lesson, they will be given the opportunity to change back into their school uniform.
Please direct any questions to your child’s classroom teacher.
FAQ’s
- What does my child do with their wet clothes? Students are encouraged to bring their sports bag, a shopping bag or a plastic bag to put their wet bathers, rash shirt and towel in after swimming.
- What if my child is put in the wrong swimming grade/level? The students are graded during each class and students can be moved up or down at any time during these lessons. The trained professionals will make this judgement.
- What if my child needs to be collected during swimming? Please refrain from making appointments during swimming times as much as possible. If you need to collect your child, please sign them out from the Administration Office before the swimming lesson begins. Please inform the office and your child’s classroom teacher if this occurs.
- What if my child forgets their equipment? All efforts will be made to contact parents if a child forgets their change of clothes or their bathers. If necessary, students will not swim.
- What if my child misses too many lessons? If your child has not completed enough lessons their attendance will not result in a certificate of moved swimming level. To get the most out of these two weeks students should swim in each lesson unless it is unavoidable for them to miss it.
K-Y6 Christmas Concert
Week 9 Celebrations
Lavalla Awards Ceremony
On Tuesday 10 December, the Lavalla Campus will celebrate the conclusion of 2019 with an acknowledgement of the Year 6 Unit and award recipients from Years 3 – 6. We look forward to welcoming parents of the Year 6 students and those of Years 3 – 5 who will be receiving awards. Invitations have already been sent to these families.
Pool Parties
Students in Years 3 – 5 will enjoy their Pool Party at the Newman College pool on the following days:
- Year 3 – Tuesday 10 December, 11.00am – 3.00pm
- Year 4 – Wednesday 11 December, 11.00am – 3.00pm
- Year 5 – Thursday 12 December, 11.00am – 3.00pm
Students must attend school in their school uniform. They will be able to change into their bathers prior to 11.00am and will change back into their school uniform for the end of the day.
Students will require the following:
- Bathers / Board Shorts (these do not have to be College bathers)
- Rash Shirt (this does not have to be the College rash shirt)
- Goggles (optional)
- Towel
- Thongs
- Sunscreen
- Hat (this does not have to be the College hat)
- Swimming Bag / Waterproof bag for wet items
PLEASE ENSURE ALL BELONGINGS ARE CLEARLY LABELLED WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME.
PLEASE NOTE: The cut-off for Flexischools for all Pool Party orders is Tuesday 3 December, 3.00pm. If you are not ordering from the special meal deal then students will need to bring their own packed lunch.
Adventure World – Year 6
Students in Year 6 will celebrate their final day of Primary School with an excursion to Adventure World on Thursday 12 December. Details have been communicated to families on Consent 2Go.
ADVOCACY, SOCIAL JUSTICE & SERVICE-LEARNING PARTNERSHIPS
Developing relationships and learning to engage in the world is fundamental to the growth of any person. At Newman College, our Marist characteristic of Presence calls us to actively engage with each other and grow our sense of community. This is exemplified through our Ministry Plan which is designed to provide our College Community with a framework through which to engage and live-out the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Its outcome may not be measured during the student’s College life. It is our aim that the values of faith, love, hope and service will manifest themselves during the student’s lifetime, and that their Catholic, Marist school experience will be one that transforms and animates them to be people of the Gospel.
Key priorities within our Ministry Plan are advocacy, social justice and service learning partnerships. The aim is to provide a framework for social action that is inspired by Gospel values, which seeks to provide the Newman College community with local opportunities to collaborate in ministries of outreach of the Catholic Church. Over the next week, I will be accompanying sixteen Year 11 students and four staff from our College and St Joseph’s College Northam to the Philippines. This immersion has become an integral component of our College life because it stimulates our students’ sense of social justice and heightens their awareness of the opportunities for service in the community, both now and post school. Pope Francis contends that “the measure of the greatness of society is found in the way it treats those most in need, those who have nothing apart from their poverty.”
The immersion has three components:
- Pre-Immersion – Understanding why: Students and staff complete a program prior to the experience that focuses on learning about the structural injustices that cause poverty and oppression in the Philippines. We learn about the issues that affect young people that include abuse, human trafficking, homelessness and substance abuse. To this end we investigate and learn about the projects undertaken by Catholic Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) such as PREDA, the KUYA Centre, and ERDA Foundation. These projects specifically aim to support communities and develop the dignity of the individual to allow them to live and be afforded the rights that we all should enjoy. To support this understanding, we also focus on Catholic Social Teaching (CST) Principles with particular reference to the Church’s preferential option for the poor and the common good.
- Immersion – On ground experience: The students spend time with our partners (NGOs) to witness their work and walk in solidarity with the young people and communities. Being directly involved in activities encourages them to critically reflect on their experiences, enabling them to integrate the meaning of these experiences into their ongoing journey of faith and life.
- Post Immersion – Growing our Culture: The impact of the individual may not be measured in the short term. However, in an endeavour to raise awareness across PK-12, the immersion participants are called to action through developing a digital reflection of their experience. This is used to support our fundraising for Caritas Australia, Marist Solidarity and these agencies. Students also present to all staff and in classroom visits.
The impact and effect of this advocacy and immersion experience to the Philippines for our community has been extraordinary. Four years of this experience has grown the culture of engagement and service within and outside our school. We have established a partnership with St Joseph’s College Northam that engages students and staff from both Marist schools in this project. Our fundraising efforts have doubled and the awareness raising is now part of our pastoral program. Students have used the experience to develop their skills and capacity for critical reflection. This has enabled many students, post-school, in their application for tertiary study and for securing work in human rights and ministry. The most pleasing aspect is our community recognising the work and mission of the Catholic Church. Our students see how good works, with advocacy and service being a fundamental part of this mission.
We wish our group every blessing for their journey ahead.
Photo 1: ERDA – Sabana community
Photo 2: Simon Martino and John Finneran with children from local streets.
Photo 3: John Finneran with George, Social Worker from KUYA Centre for Street Children, with children from local streets. (Newman students will visit this area on 3 December.)
Marcellin Champagnat “showed himself to be a first-class educator of young people. His success in transforming the mostly poorly educated youth who wanted to be Brothers into capable teachers and religious educators was extraordinary. He was present among them, gave them good example, and helped them to develop humanly and spiritually. The secret of his success lay in the great simplicity with which he related to his young followers and in his great confidence in them.” (In the footsteps of Marcellin Champagnat, #23). Today, Newman College continues in Marcellin’s footsteps by working towards the development of the ‘whole person’, socially, emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually.
Over the course of the last two weeks, students have been challenged to stand in solidarity with the poor and the marginalised both locally (St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal) and internationally (supporting the Kuya Centre in the Philippines). In true Marist style, students and staff across the College, have opened their hearts to those in need with an overwhelming demonstration of support.
Year 11 Philippines Immersion
Yesterday our Year 11 Philippines Immersion group were commissioned at our Thursday Morning Community Mass.
On Saturday 23 November, sixteen Year 11 students from Newman College and St Joseph’s School, Northam, begin their two week Immersion in the Philippines accompanied by Mr John Finneran, Principal, Mrs Carla Pastorelli, Leader of Wellbeing Year 11, Mr Tom Williams, Assistant Head of Sport, Mr Simon Martino, Leader of Wellbeing Year 9 and Mr Shane Bransby, teacher, St Joseph’s School, Northam.
The students attending are:
Jessica Ashwood, Anastasia Berti, Kate Broderick, Brodie Major, Meg Hobson, Mitchell Harris, Charlotte Easden, Ruby Vance, Samuel Giumelli, Samuel Beeton, Tegan Connelly, Damien Lockyer, Grace Collins, Jack Towie, Kate Harris (St Joseph’s School, Northam) and Hannah Morrison (St Joseph’s School, Northam).
We congratulate our 2019 Year 11 Philippines Immersion group on taking this next step in their journey following their six-month formation and preparation process.
Kuya Centre Free Dress Day / Crazy Hair Day – Gold Coin Donation
Over the past few weeks, students at the Marcellin and Lavalla Campuses were invited to wear Free Dress and students at Marian come to school with crazy hairstyles to raise both funds and awareness for the Kuya Centre in the Philippines which will be visited by the Year 11 Philippines Immersion group next week. The Free Dress Day raised $1,610.95 and the Crazy Hair Day $382.30. Every dollar raised on this day will be directed to young people supported by the Kuya Centre. The Kuya Centre is a project of Australian Marist Solidarity. You can read more about the Kuya Centre and the work of Australian Marist Solidarity by clicking here.
St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal
The annual St Vincent de Paul Society Christmas Appeal provides hope, comfort and dignity to over 3000 families in Western Australia who will be struggling during the Christmas season. As a Catholic school educating in the Marist Tradition, Newman College seeks to reach out and serve those in our community following the example set by Jesus in the Scriptures.
Items for the St Vincent de Paul Society Christmas Appeal will be collected across the College’s three campuses at Marian, Lavalla and Marcellin. In 2019, Newman College will be supporting the St Vincent de Paul Society at both St Cecilia’s Church in the Parish of Floreat / Wembley, as well as at Our Lady of the Rosary, Doubleview.
A letter was sent home to parents outlining the items requested for each campus, as well as details about collection points.
Download St Vincent De Paul Christmas Appeal Letter 2019
Prayers for the Month of November
During the month of November, Catholics are invited to remember all those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. Beginning the month of November is the feast of All Saints (Friday 1 November), followed by the feast of All Souls (Saturday 2 November).
You are invited to join our Thursday morning Community Masses at 8.10am to pray with and for those who have gone before us, both as saints, and those who you would like to remember in this month of November. Throughout November, staff and students are invited to write a prayer, or the name of a loved-one, and place it in a sealed box which will be placed at the front of the altar for each of our Masses in November. This box will be in the foyer of the Champagnat Chapel for the month of November. In this way, we as a community are able to unite our prayers in support and remembrance of each other, and to those who have travelled this way before us.
MYM Annual Christmas Trivia Night
Marist Youth Ministry and the Marist Association are hosting a Trivia Night to help fundraise for the Santa Teresa Holiday Program, which one of our teachers Miss Louise O’Mahony will be attending next year. This will be the first Trivia Night Fundraiser, which will run annually, and is open to all ages and families from Newman looking to have a blast and show off their knowledge. With plenty of prizes up for offer, it would be silly not to come! BYO all food and soft drink needed for the night. Click here to purchase tickets. We hope to see you there!
The Birth of Jesus and Christmas
The Centre for Faith Enrichment are running a course titled: The Birth of Jesus and Christmas. The Course runs on Thursdays between 5 December and 19 December, 7.30pm-9.30pm. This user-friendly online course looks at the origins and ‘developments’ of celebrating Christmas throughout the world whilst always returning to the ‘reason for the season’ – the birth of Jesus. The course is run by Rev. Dr Charles Waddell and the cost is $15. Click here for more information.
24:7 FLOREAT YOUTH GROUP
- For all youth in Years 6-12
- Every Sunday from 6.00pm – 8.00pm at St Cecilia’s Parish Centre, 47 Peebles Road, Floreat
- Call Sebastian on 0403230395 or Emma on 0412310019 for more information.
Year 10 Outdoor Ed Exhibition
On Wednesday 13 November, 70 students from Year 10 Australian Bush Outdoor Education completed their three-day expedition in the Wellington Dam region. Students were challenged to some hot temperatures with all three days in the mid-30s. The first day saw all classes complete different hikes on the Munda-Biddi trail over 15km long, a tough task in hot conditions. For the next two days the classes rotated between rafting, abseiling and team building activities. These activities enabled students to develop their interpersonal and personal skills in the natural environment. Overall it was a brilliant camp and I hope all the Year 10 students gained many memories from it.
Michael Van Der Heever, Outdoor Education Coordinator
“The Year 10 Outdoor Ed Camp started very early on Wednesday morning at the ODE shed to do any last-minute packing and to weigh the bags. The bus ride consisted of listening to music, playing cards, talking and just mucking around in general. My classes first activity was hiking. It was a long and tiring hike on the Munda-Biddi trail (which is a mountain biking track). We ended up walking 16km to Honeymoon Pool which was our main camping spot. By this time we were all hot, sweaty and tired, all anyone wanted to do was have a dip in the stream. The next morning, we were all up and ready to go for our second activity by 7.30am. This activity was based around team-building and the aim was to get all of our hiking bags across the river, using ropes and the knots we have learned in class, without letting them get wet. Our third activity was rafting. It was so much fun, people ended up swimming from one raft to the other and trying to capsize each other. We then had to walk back to Honeymoon Pool carrying all the boats! Once there we caught a bus ride to our final campsite, Potters Gregory which is right on the Wellington Dam’s edge. On the morning of the last day, we had to hike to the Wellington Dam Wall to do our final activity which was abseiling. We did it in the Quarry Wall which was 16 meters high and had a wonderful view (I recommend having a go even if you’re scared of heights!). I managed to do a 720-degree spin (2 spins) on the wall but one of the boys beat me by doing a 1080-degree spin (3 spins). After a few hours, we left on the bus and headed home, and that ride consisted of sleeping, lots of sleeping.
All in all, I loved the experience and would do it again and again. I do have to say a big thank you to all the teachers that put up with our classes, and a huge thank you to Mr Gregory who put so much thought and effort into this camp that he only managed to remember to pack one change of clothing. If you are interested in doing Outdoor Education in the years to come, I 100% recommend you do it. The opportunities are once in a lifetime and you will love it all the way.”
Caitlyn Vile, Year 10 Student
Junior Water Polo Competition
Well done to the Junior Girls and Boys Water Polo teams which competed in the Junior Water Polo Competition this week at HBF Stadium. The girls were new to the game and were competitive throughout and really enjoyed the day. The boys were Runner Up Champions, narrowly losing the Grand Final to CBC 6-5. A big thank you to Nathan Carbone and the Newman Water Polo Club for their expert coaching and support.
Marist Cricket Carnival
The 1st X1 Cricket Team play two fixtures next week against Bunbury Catholic College (Monday) and John Forrest SHS (Wednesday) in preparation for the 47th Marist Cricket Carnival. The Carnival is being held in Lismore, NSW and the team is at the business end of their preparation. The boys fly out on Saturday 30 November. All players are primed to give their best and are driven to uphold the Marist values of participation, friendship and enjoyment both on and off the pitch.
Marist Sporting Carnivals are National elite competitions. Newman students have the opportunity to represent the school and tour interstate with basketball, netball and cricket. All younger students involved in these sports should have an ambition to work hard and persevere to one day be a part of the tradition.
IPSHA Athletics Competition
At the recent IPSHA Athletics Competition, Newman College was represented with outstanding performances by two students who convincingly broke the IPSHA record for their events. Ty Patterson (Year 5) set a Turbo-Jav record with a throw of 30.32cm and Annabelle Lynch (Year 3) set a new triple jump record with a jump of 6.81m. The Year 5 4 x 100 relay team also completed their event in record time. Well done!
IPSHA Touch Rugby Carnival
Last Thursday 14 November, Mrs Jemma Bulmer and Mrs Renae Zelich took our interschool team to participate in the IPSHA Touch Rugby Carnival at John XXIII College. 24 students from Year 6 formed two teams and played seven fast-paced, action packed games in 40 degree heat. I extend my thanks to Mrs Bulmer and Mrs Zelich for leading our wonderful students throughout the day.
“We played against many schools with a high level of sportsmanship. Both teams played exceptionally well across the day, developing our skills and tactics throughout every game. One team finished the day undefeated while the other team won all games except for one. We all had lots of fun.” Leo Mason, Year 6 Student
Individual Accomplishments
- Congratulations to Elsie Laming (Year 12) and Thomas Ariti (Year 11) who play for the Newman Knights Hockey Club on being selected to play in a team for the upcoming 2019 FHE Cup later this month at the Perth Hockey Stadium. The FHE Cup is a tournament targeting U16 players to experience hockey on an international and professional stage with teams from Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Australia. This year they have included an U18 Girls competition. Best of luck Elsie and Thomas!
- Congratulations to Anthea Todman (Year 12) who received the prestigious Australian Olympic Change-Maker Award in recognition of demonstration of the Olympic Spirit through leadership and driving positive change in her community.
- Sarah and Grace Mitchell (Year 11) will be leaving Newman College at the end of this year. The girls have earned a place with Bristol City FC, a professional soccer club in the UK. They will be joining their Academy program in the new year. We wish the girls well as they follow their dreams.
Newman Sporting Association News
Netball
