Category: Primary

November is a time where we remember the people in our life who have passed away. The month begins with the Feast of All Saints Day and followed by All Souls Day. Staff, students and families are invited to write the names of loved ones and place it in the glass bowl in the Chapel foyer during November and the names will be brought forward and remembered during Community Mass.

A common prayer prayed at this time and one you are invited to pray during this month is:

Eternal rest grant unto them,
O Lord, and let perpetual light
shine upon them. May the souls
of all the faithful departed, through
the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Remar Blue Solidarity Retreat Day

On Friday 30 October our Remar Blue students participated in a full day of education and opportunities to provide assistance to people experiencing homelessness in Perth and learn about how we can be practice caretakers of people and the planet.

We went to Vinnies Stirling, most us of us know that this is an op shop that sells cheap clothing. What we did not know was that if people find themselves in situation like their house burning down, Vinnies gives vouches to those affected to obtain clothes for free.

We also went to Passages, a youth stay where young people ages 13-25 can come in to rest and sort out situations they might find themselves in. Everyday there are professionals like doctors, Centrelink workers, lawyers and mental health professionals that come and help the young people. What struck me the most was that young people are able to come back and be themselves; all the staff ask is that they be respectful, even if they act up they are allowed back in after a walk outside to calm down.

We were given a talk in which we learnt about the operations and key details about Tom Fisher House, a shelter for people experiencing long term homelessness and were excited to learn that the people who use the service are able to bring in their pets, no other shelter allows this to occur.

We ended the experience by going into the city to meet people who are suffering from homelessness and handing out fruit bags we had made. This was a challenging experience but the most impactful as we had learnt more and more about the issue of homelessness and the people affected by it.

Student Reflection:

“Last Friday, the Year 11 Remar students experienced an eye opening retreat focusing on the stewardship of creation. During the excursion, we looked at ways to care for our world, specifically in relation to upholding the dignity of the human person, which is particularly compromised when people suffer from homelessness.

One of the organisations that we were lucky enough to visit was Passages, a day-service which offers youth experiencing homelessness with legal, financial and health support, as well as assisting them in finding safe accommodation for the night. With the service’s particular focus on helping youth aged 13-25, it was particularly confronting learning of the struggles which children our own age battle with daily. Passages also provides simple assistance in every-day skills, such as washing dishes, cooking and cleaning, as well as offering a free pantry, showers and a washing machine. This not only provides these young people with the basic necessities, but also allows them the dignity of having clean clothes and a choice of food. The experience was extremely educational, challenging stereotypes that many of us held around the issue. We learned how drug and alcohol abuse are usually symptoms of homelessness rather than causes and usually manifest as coping mechanisms for past trauma.

Neeve, the lovely manager, along with the rest of the staff, were kind and accommodating, as well as extremely knowledgeable and the passion and love they have for their work was clear for all to see. It was inspiring for us to see how just small acts of kindness can make such a big difference. The simplicity of providing a can of beans or veggies can help one person get through a long weekend, especially if they are fighting to survive on the street.

It was an exhilarating experience and the knowledge that organisations, such as Passagers, exist in Western Australia to help those experiencing homelessness was a comfort to us all and I’m sure we are all now more motivated to work in fighting and promoting awareness of such an important issue.

Thank you to Vinnies for supporting us by taking us on tours and Felicity Keet (ex-Newman student) for her eye-opening presentation. ” Taylah Sadgrove

Game Changers Launch

In the coming weeks, the current Years 9 and 10 students will participate in a Game Changers recruitment session during extended PCG. We hope they look forward to learning more about the program and getting engaged in the activities. Students will be able to join up next year with a greater understanding of the program.

Archbishops Christmas Appeal for Lifelink 2020 video Launch

On Tuesday 3 November, Archbishop Timothy Costelloe launched the annual Christmas Appeal for the Archdiocese. This year’s launch included a new video introducing Lifelink and the services this organisation provides across WA. Newman College was fortunate to be part of the new video, where our 2020 College Captain, Mitchell Harris and Social Justice Captain, Charlotte Easden, participated in and helped create the final product. Click here to watch the video. Congratulations to all schools and students involved in creating this important video that encourages us all to remember the most vulnerable.

Thursday morning Community Mass

A reminder to all families to please join our College community in celebrating Mass on Thursday mornings from 8.10am (concludes at 8.40am).

Student-Led Prayer

Today our 2021 Faith and Liturgy Captains led the students at Marcellin Campus in a reflection for the final time in 2020.

Our Vision for Learning, Shine through Discovery seeks to foster innovation and creativity, whilst developing skills of critical and creative thinking.  We commit to providing a safe learning environment where students are encouraged to take risks and think beyond the classroom. Exploring student ideas and creativity have been showcased most recently at our Arts Festival and Exhibition in the Marist Auditorium. Congratulations to all students and staff who have worked so tirelessly to resolve their visual art, perform in dance or music and to those who showcased their pieces from technology and enterprise. I also acknowledge the leadership of Mrs Maree Grayden, Leader of Learning Arts, for her passion and energy in bringing the Arts Festival to the College Community in 2020.  The list of award winners and photos from the event can be found here.

Learning Hub

The new Learning Hub is on track with the official opening scheduled for the beginning of the 2021 school year.  We very much look forward to using the flexible learning spaces, break out areas, presentation zones and library resources.

S Block

The Science Block will also be renovated over the next couple of months.  Access to S block will be closed at the commencement of Week 5 (next week).  Students with timetabled classes in S Block will have amended timetables to reflect their new classroom locations.  Students currently using lockers in S block will need to ensure they are empty by the end of this week.

Siena Learning Centre (Library)

The Library will be used as classrooms while the S block renovations are in progress. Homework Club will continue in this space. Borrowing of books however, is no longer available. Students in Years 11 and 12 studying for exams at the College will use A11 as their study room.  Students who use the Library due to a curriculum variation plan can still do so.

From 2021, the current Library will be our newly designed Staff Study area. The Staff Study is designed in a way that our Vision for Learning is promoted, lived and active in contemporary learning spaces. Other spaces across the College will also benefit from improvements over the next few months to include new furniture etc.
Students are reminded to check the daily notices for all room changes and information relating to the safest and best way to move around the College.

2021 Term Dates

Please note the Term Dates for 2021

Term 1

• Staff commence: Wednesday 27 January
• Students commence:  K-6, 7 & 12 and New Students: Monday 1 February
• Students commence: Years 8-11: Tuesday 2 February
• Term concludes for staff and students: Thursday 1 April

Term 2

• Staff commence: Monday 19 April
• Students commence: Tuesday 20 April
• Term concludes for staff and students: Friday 2 July

Term 3

• Staff commence: Monday 19 July
• Students commence: Wednesday 21 July
• Term concludes for staff and students: Friday 24 September

Term 4

• Staff commence: Monday 11 October
• Students commence: Tuesday 12 October
• Term concludes for students: Years 10-12 TBC (dependent on examination timetables)
• Term concludes for students: K – Year 9, Thursday 9 December
• Term concludes for staff: Wednesday 15 December

2021 Pupil Free Days

Term 1

• Monday 1 March – Labour Day – Public Holiday
• Friday 2 April  – Good Friday – Public Holiday

Term 2

• Monday 19 April  – Pupil Free- Staff Professional Learning
• Monday 26 April – Anzac Day – Public Holiday
• Monday 7 June – WA Day- Public Holiday

Term 3

• Monday 19 July – Pupil Free – Staff Faith Formation Day
• Tuesday 20 July – Pupil Free – K-12 Parent/Teacher Interviews
• Friday 13 August – Pupil Free – Staff Professional Learning
• Monday 16 August – Pupil Free – CEWA Faith Day (College Closed)

Term 4

• Monday 11 October – Pupil Free – Staff Professional Learning

Booklists and BYODD (Bring Your Own Dedicated Device) Info

The College has partnered with Winthrop Australia to provide a comprehensive educational bundle for designated devices for students – Year 3-6 (iPad) and Years 7-12 (Surface Pro).
Click here for Y7-12 details and here for Y3-6 details. Any queries can be directed to Mr Tom Brajdic, Leader of ICT tom.brajdic@newman.wa.edu.au

OfficeMax will provide resources for the learning and teaching program across the College in 2021. Details of booklists will be shared with families in the weeks ahead. Secondary student booklists will include the pre-purchased levy that covers all eBooks and eLearning subscriptions.

Covid-19 Update – Relaxation To Phase 4

Assemblies and College community events: Whole school and campus assemblies are limited to ensure student numbers do not 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 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.

Keeping Safe Child Protection Curriculum

The Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum (KS:CPC) aims to help children and students, preschool to senior secondary, learn to recognise abuse and develop ways of protecting themselves from abuse and, in wider terms, covers rights, relationships, responsibilities and ethical behaviour. This curriculum is delivered throughout the year and is prepared and planned with the social, emotional and development needs of our children and young people, from Kindy to Year 12.

Our Commitment To Child Safety

All members of the College community share responsibility for and actively promote an environment that prioritises the best interests of children and young people.

“What might this look like at Newman College?”

• Teachers and staff recognise a child and young adult’s right to a safe, engaging, and supportive environment.
• Child safety is a responsibility shared by everyone at the College.
• Standardised, quality training is provided to understand the indicators of child maltreatment, e.g. Child Protection Policy and Mandatory Reporting training.
• Child safe policies and practices are in place to ensure that unsafe behaviour is recognised and reported.
• There is a culture where children and young adults can raise concerns without worry.
• Parents are treated as partners in child safety and have access to information and support on all aspects of child safety.
• Staff actively seek to identify and eliminate racism and discrimination.
• Staff feel confident to identify and present concerns about child safety activities and practices.
• Teachers and staff are alert and aware about how others treat children and young people.

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.

Graduation Award Winners

Last night, families, friends and staff gathered to celebrate Mass and Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2020. This is a very special occasion on the College Calendar and marks the end of a journey from Kindy to Year 12. The achievements were acknowledged with the presentation of Subject Awards and College Awards. Congratulations to each student and their family. We extend our thanks to teaching staff, from Primary through to Secondary, who have guided, walked with and supported each student over many years. Special thanks to Mrs Carla Pastorelli, Leader of Wellbeing Year 12. Your commitment to this group of students has been unwavering and exemplifies the true mark of a teacher.

As Marist educators, we reflect on the words of Marcellin, ‘May their lives be an echo, of what you’ve taught them’. Our prayer for the graduates of 2020 is that their lives continue to be formed by the tenants of our Marist spirituality and each of you leave Newman College with the courage of your faith, a heart for compassion and a call for service.

Click here to see the full list of award recipients and more photos from the night.

Newman Parents 2021

Planning for the 2021 Newman Parents program is underway. If there is a topic you would like to explore, please email me at lisa.fogliani@newman.wa.edu.au

It is hoped the College can offer a program of both online and face to face parent engagement opportunities.

Awards Ceremonies 2020 

Mindful of the 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 Dates below. Details of each event will be shared closer to the date.

• 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

Arts Festival

A reminder that the 2020 PK-12 College Arts Festival opens on Sunday 25 October with Divergence the Dance Showcase held in the Marist Auditorium. This is a ticketed event, due to Covid-19 restrictions. Click here for more information.

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 do not 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 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.

Start of Term

We have enjoyed a smooth start to the Term.

Year 12 students returned to exams and subsequent feedback sessions, the Year 10 students spent the week in Karridale on their Adventure Camp and we also welcomed our Year 7 2021 cohort to the College for Orientation.

It was wonderful to see Book Week come to life across the College this week. Many age appropriate activities took place and the Primary Parades were extremely colourful. I trust all will enjoy the wonderful photos taken during this week (click here).

Feast of Saint John Henry Newman

Friday 9 October was the official Feast Day of Saint John Henry Newman.

Saint John Henry Newman was an academic. He sought truth and believed that each of us has a purpose, that we are each a link in a chain, created by God to do good and to do God’s work.

During last week we had the opportunity to learn more about Newman’s story. Each campus celebrated through various activities to remember the contributions and learn about Newman. As a community, we celebrated the Feast Day at our Thursday morning Mass which was led by Monsignor Kevin Long.

Tom Brajdic

On Friday 16 October, Catholic Education WA celebrated long standing members of staff at a breakfast at Crown Burswood. Tom Brajdic, our Leader of ICT, was acknowledged for his 40 years of dedicated service to education. Congratulations Tom on this outstanding achievement.

Year 12 Graduation

Last evening we celebrated the Graduating Class of 2020 at Optus Stadium, commencing with Mass in the stands and followed by awards and dinner in the Riverview Room. Due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, the event could not take place at Newman College and we were most fortunate to have secured this magnificent venue for what was, as College Captain Anastasia Berti referred to, the Grand Final of the Class of 2020.

In my speech, I put to the Class of 2020 – ‘What is it your plan to do with your one, wild and precious life?’, the Marist Theme for 2020.  At its heart, it is a question that invites us to look at who we are, the lives we are living, and our place in the world. Our response to this question can take us on a journey in search of understanding of what brings greater freedom and wholeness in our lives. It invites us at a deeper level to consider what it means to be truly human; the brevity, beauty and mystery of life….

Please click here to access the Principal’s Graduation Speech.

The event was an outstanding success.  The students presented beautifully and it was wonderful to see so many family members in attendance to see their children / siblings / grandchildren through this rite of passage.