Secondary Archives - Newman College

From the Principal – Term 4 Week 8

Jenni Vile on 05/12/2025

Dear Newman College Families,

Well, we have reached the end of the term and the conclusion of the academic year! We celebrated and gave thanks for 2025 in the final weeks with many memorable events and programs across the College. Lavalla Carols and K-5 Awards Night, final Community Mass, Year 6 Graduation Mass and Awards Night, Lavalla Pool Parties, Advent Liturgy, Music Rocks Concert for Education Support and the Year 7-9 Ministry and Discovery festivals. In each celebration, we focused on the joy of the year, our expression of Marist characteristics and the various contributions of our wonderful students to the life of the College. As I write this piece for the Newsletter, we have 15 Year 11 students and three staff in the Philippines, and our Marist Cricket team are competing at the Marist Cricket Carnival in Brisbane. The term’s end reflects the nature of our whole year program – wonderful opportunities for our students to ‘Shine Through Discovery’.

Awards Ceremonies

On Wednesday 26 November, we celebrated the Year 7-11 Awards Ceremony in the Gymnasium and students who have excelled in academic, service, leadership, the arts and sport were recognised. It was wonderful to host so many families who attended the function.

The Kindergarten to Year 5 Awards and Primary Carols Evening was a wonderful family evening on Friday, 28 November. Again, it was so pleasing to acknowledge student achievement and be led in the singing of carols by each year group. The Year 6 Student Leadership group for 2026 was also announced.

Outgoing Vice Principal – Mr Michael Chiera

On behalf of the College community, I extend my congratulations to Mr Michael Chiera on his appointment as Principal of Servite College beginning in 2026. Michael has been a calm and considerate leader in the complex role of Vice Principal and is ready to lead his own community. We thank Michael for his tremendous service to the Newman College community and wish him every success.

New Vice Principal Announcement

Today, Dr Frank Malloy, National Director of Marist Schools Australia, announced to the Newman College community MSA’s appointment of our new Vice Principal.

Congratulations to Mrs Beth Murphy, who has been appointed to the position of Vice Principal from the beginning of 2026. Read Marist Schools Australia Announcement letter here, which has also been emailed to all families this morning. Mrs Sarah Pagett will take on the role of Acting Deputy Principal, Teaching and Learning PK-12 that Beth vacates.

Staff Farewells

In every school, as we reach the end of the academic year, there is staff movement, especially in a school our size with over 250 staff. Staff move for promotional positions, new experiences, the opportunity to secure an ongoing contract due to parental leave cover and retirements from the profession. This year we farewell 4 staff who are moving into retirement. Mr Sean Henderson is the shortest serving staff member but has a long history with Newman College through his family. Sean has had a long and distinguished career as a senior leader in Catholic and independent schools. As he reached the time to retire, it was his wish to end his career at Newman College and we were very grateful to have Sean teach upper school Economics and mentor younger staff. Our thanks and best wishes to Sean!

Mr Bern Willett

Mr Bern Willett retires from teaching at the end of 2025. Bern has taught at Newman College for 43 years. His family has had an unbroken association with the College since the late 1960s. Bern has held positions of middle and senior leadership over the 43 years in our community. His passion for teaching mathematics, his commitment to coaching football and cricket and being extensively involved in College life is known by generations of Newman College people. As a mark of respect and gratitude, the students formed a guard of honour at our final assembly to farewell Mr Bern Willett. Thank you, Bern! We wish you all the best in the next stage of the journey.

Mrs Nadia Napoli

Mrs Nadia Napoli has been a staff member at Newman College for 20 years and 2026 sees Nadia enter retirement. She has taught across primary and secondary during this time, demonstrating a skill to deliver quality learning and pastoral care to all students at all ages. Thank you, Nadia! Our thanks and best wishes to you!

Mr John Spriggins

Mr Spriggins has taught at Newman College for 18 years and now moves to opportunities beyond teaching. A passionate and engaging educator, John has always brough excitement, enthusiasm and the ability to connect students with great learning opportunities in Physics and Science. We wish you all the best, John. Enjoy the years ahead!

Mrs Rosa Testa

Rosa has served the College for 15 years as an Education Assistant in Primary. Each class and each student has had the most excellent care when Rosa has been assisting the learning and pastoral care in the classroom. A dedicated and passionate career for which we are very grateful, Rosa!

Moving to other schools

Emily Mincherton – Teacher, Secondary
Paige Adams – Teacher, Secondary
Scott Smith – Teacher, Secondary
Veronica Wahba – Teacher, Secondary
Isabella Anastacio – Teacher, Secondary
Pamera Tee – Teacher, Secondary
Nicolletta De Gennaro – Teacher, Secondary
Jennifer Go – Teacher, Secondary

Non-Teaching Staff

Kate Thayer – HPE Administrator
Meegan Seaborn – Education Assistant, Primary

2026 Information

The College will send out a Welcome Pack and pertinent information relating to the 2026 school year prior to the commencement of students. One event to flag with you is the annual Family Mass which will be celebrated on Tuesday 17 February at 5:30pm on the Br Terrence Orrell Oval (Marcellin Campus). This Mass sets the scene for the year and expresses our Marist characteristic of Family Spirit and is compulsory for all students to attend.

Advent and Christmas

We are in the season of Advent and we have begun this beautiful liturgical celebration which draws us towards Christmas. The notion of ‘waiting’ figures strongly in Advent; we await the birth of the Saviour. What an interesting message of patience and focus this presents for us against a backdrop of the more commercial tone of rush and a countdown of shopping days left until Christmas. May the Advent season sustain us in our waiting and give us courage in our living.

I take this opportunity to thank all students, staff and Newman College families for the blessing that has been 2025. A wonderful year full of historic moments alongside the small joys where we have seen our young people shine in their own special way.

From all at Newman College, having the opportunity to support, guide and celebrate your child’s journey is the greatest privilege any educator and mentor can possibly have. I wish every student, staff, parent, guardian and family of our community a joyous and blessed Christmas. I know many parents will have only a small window of opportunity over the break for rest and time with their families, but I hope it is precious time. See you all for the new academic year in 2026!

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL

From the Principal – Term 4 Week 6

Jenni Vile on 21/11/2025

Celebration

In our Vision for Learning, ‘Shine through Discovery, ’ the pedagogical pillar of Celebrate is a key to learning and success. It is an opportunity for our students to shine through the celebration of faith, achievements, effort and growth. These celebration moments include family and school, which reinforces community recognition of our young people. In celebrating, we encourage intrinsic motivation to develop important attributes such as courage, perseverance and dedication.

In these final weeks, we are enjoying the time of celebration. Just this week, the Lavalla Class concerts in the Chapel have showcased our students’ achievements and dedication to music. Fantastic little concerts in the presence of families and staff. What a joy it is to watch our primary students master individual and group performance! Last week, we were treated to the many after-school recital performances by music students from primary through to Year 11. The growth in music ability and performance has grown so much in the 12 months since these last performances. A huge congratulation to our students, Ms Selena Barrett, Ms Laura van Rijn and the College music tutors also. Next week we celebrate the Year 7-11 Awards Assembly.

At Newman College, we shine through celebration of our faith, achievements, effort and contribution. Celebration builds strong communities and plays a major role in social, emotional and academic growth, learning and faith development. It encourages a sense of belonging, group coherence and purpose.

Head of Primary Announcement

Today, families would have received a letter from me announcing the new Head of Primary, Laura Christopher. A rundown of Laura’s leadership journey is in the letter. She joins our passionate Primary Leadership Team, who are an exceptional group of leaders. In an earlier communication this term, I thanked Mr Ryan von Bergheim for his dedicated leadership over the past three years. In appointing Laura, I also recognise Mrs Sarah Pagett, who has been Head of Primary since April. Sarah has led the move from Marian to Lavalla and provided leadership that I know our Primary families, students and staff have been most grateful for. Thank you, Sarah!

Social Media Survey

Mr Michael Chiera has information regarding both the survey results and an update to the incoming legislation changes in his section of the Newsletter. Please take the time to read Michael’s piece and the consultation with families will be really instructive with our approaches to supporting our young people.

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL

From the Vice Principal – Term 4 Week 6

Jenni Vile on 21/11/2025

Year 7-11 Awards Celebration and Primary Christmas Carols & KG – Y5 Awards

Next Wednesday, 26 November, our Secondary students will gather for a special Celebration Assembly recognising the outstanding achievements of Semester Two. The assembly will acknowledge excellence across academics, sport and leadership, including the presentation of Academic Excellence and Subject Awards, Sporting Awards and Guild Awards. We will also introduce our Student Guild Representatives for 2026 and take a moment to thank and farewell staff members who are concluding their time with us.

On Friday evening, it will be our Primary students’ turn to shine. This joyful occasion will celebrate a wide range of achievements in academic and mission areas, accompanied by musical performances from each class to help usher in the Christmas season.

We look forward to gathering as a community next week and celebrating the wonderful gifts and contributions of our students.

Year 6 Mass and Graduation

Newman College is excited to celebrate the achievements of our Year 6 students as they complete their primary years and prepare for the next stage of their education journey. The Year 6 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, 2 December, from 5 – 7pm, beginning with a Mass in the Champagnat Chapel, followed by an Awards Ceremony in the Marist Auditorium. This special event will honour the accomplishments of our Year 6 students and we look forward to celebrating with them and their families.

Philippines Immersion

Next Thursday 27 November, our Year 11 Philippines Immersion will commence, with thirteen students and three staff departing Perth for Manila. They will be embarking together on a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture and bring to life our vision of being “good Christians and good citizens.”

During the trip, students will visit four key organisations, including a local PK–12 Marist College similar to our own, where they will have the chance to listen, learn and connect with Filipino students their age. They will also spend time at the Marist Asia Pacific Centre, where young brothers undergo formation to become Marist Brothers. Additionally, students will visit agencies that support vulnerable children, including those who have experienced abuse or face unstable family situations that lead them to live on the streets.

Our hope is that this experience inspires students to grow in their heart for service, returning with a deeper awareness of God’s presence, even in challenging circumstances. We wish our students and staff a safe and meaningful journey and look forward to hearing about their experiences upon their return.

Marist Cricket Tour

The College’s 1st XI cricket team depart Saturday 29 November for Brisbane. The team will compete in the 51st Marist Cricket Carnival at Marist College, Ashgrove. This is the ‘A’ division of two carnivals happening at the same time.

The team of thirteen, accompanied by Mr Bern Willet, Mr John Lucas and Mr Jake Goncalves, will play 5 games over the week and will celebrate Mass and Dinner with other students and staff of Marist Schools from across the country. Led by Captain Sam Weston and Vice Captains Koby Ashford and Sam Malajczuk, they are looking forward to a competitive carnival. We wish them all the best of luck.

Social Media – Incoming Ban Legislation and College Policies

On 10 December the Social Media Ban for children under the age of 16, with some platforms intending on implementing the ban earlier. It is important that you speak to your children about this change, below are some practical tips and points for you and your child to discuss ahead of the change:

Save any Snapchat memories to their camera roll
Get alternate contact numbers or emails for their friends
Save copies of Instagram, TikTok or Facebook posts and photos
Cancel any online subscriptions for social media platforms
Be aware of scams promising to reactivate accounts

Earlier this term, consultant Paris McNeil hosted an information session on the ban and the recording is available here:

The College recently sent home a social media and smartphone survey to families, it is still available here for those who have yet to complete it. So far, over 500 families have completed the survey, and the data shows that there is overwhelming support from parents for the social media ban / delay and that a large number of families would also support a stronger stance on general smartphone use for children.

Parents, Guardians and Students are reminded of the Student Use of Mobile Devices Policy. Notably that students must not use mobile devices during school hours or during school-related activities unless authorised to do so by a staff member. Students who need to contact home during school hours must do so by accessing the Student Reception at Marcellin or the Primary Reception at Lavalla.

2026 Uniforms

As previously communicated, we would like to remind families of the following changes as they purchase their uniforms for 2026:

Commencing 2026 onwards:

The College belt must be worn in Term 2 and 3 with the College trousers.
All primary students will need a guild shirt in line with the PK- 12 Guild system implemented in 2025.

Commencing 2027 onwards:

The grey skirt will be the only option to wear in 2027. The slate blue skirt can only be worn in Years 7 to 12 until the end of 2026.

Secondary Update – Term 4 Week 6

Jenni Vile on 21/11/2025

Year 10 River Cruise: A Night to Remember

On Tuesday 18 November, our Year 10 students enjoyed an unforgettable evening on the Swan River aboard a Captain Cook River Cruise. Departing from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as students boarded the vessel. The cruise made its way towards Fremantle just as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow across the beautiful Swan River. The stunning sunset provided the perfect backdrop for a night filled with fun, friendship, and celebration.

Is there another word for vibe? Students arrived in an array of creative costumes that added to the night’s vibrant atmosphere. Among the crowd were iconic characters from Star Wars, the band KISS, the entire crew from The Hangover, and even Steve Irwin as The Crocodile Hunter (complete with a life-sized crocodile!) Superheroes, basketball players, and the unforgettable Mean Girls also made an appearance. Not to be outdone, our staff joined in the fun, donning classic Minion-themed outfits that perfectly complemented the evening’s spirited atmosphere.

With music filling the air and laughter all around, students danced the night away, creating memories they will carry long after this school year. Special thanks go to our Pastoral Care Group teachers for their support, making the night both safe and enjoyable, and to all staff who attended. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Lara Vlahov, Leader of Wellbeing Year 10, for her organisation of the evening and for her efforts in making this event such a success for all who attended.

Remembrance Day – Tuesday 11 November

On Tuesday 11 November, the College community came together in Founders Court for our Remembrance Day Ceremony. This provided an opportunity for students from Years 7 to 10 to reflect on and remember the bravery and sacrifice of all who have served our country and others in times of war and conflict.

The mood was one of deep reflection and respect as wreaths were laid at the foot of the flagpoles and the entire College community stood in a minute of silence, remembering those who have served to protect our freedoms. This was a significant opportunity to stop and give thanks as a community and to remember the importance of living with gratitude for the sacrifices of others so that we may enjoy the freedom that we have today.

Thank you, Mr Stuart McClorey, Director of Mission and Catholic Identity, for leading the College in prayer on this special day.

Year 7 Campus Experience

On 12 November Wednesday, we were delighted to welcome our incoming Year 7 students and their families to the Secondary Campus Experience as part of our Year 7 2026 Transition Program.

The evening was filled with a lively atmosphere as parents and students mingled, connected with each other, and explored the Marcellin Campus. Families had the opportunity to meet Pastoral Care Group (PCG) teachers, engage with Year 10 student leaders and reflect on Orientation Day.

I would like to extend my thanks to Mrs Lara Vlahov and the Guild Coordinators for organising such a well-structured afternoon, and to our amazing Year 10 Peer Support Leaders who ran all the student tours and activities with enthusiasm and care. A special thank you to Donna McFadden for providing the amazing food, and to the Leaders of Wellbeing and the Executive Team for their support throughout the evening.

This event was a wonderful opportunity to strengthen connections within our community and set the tone for a successful transition into Year 7. We look forward to continuing this journey with our families as we prepare for 2026.

Upcoming Events

Years 7-11 Annual Awards Assembly – Wednesday 26 November

Newman College’s Annual Awards Assembly will be held on Wednesday 26 November, commencing at approximately 9.00am in the College Gymnasium.

This final assembly on the Marcellin Campus provides an opportunity to celebrate the academic and sporting achievements of our students throughout the year.

We are currently finalising our award recipients, and families of students receiving awards will be notified prior to the event. Further details will be shared with families soon.

State Sporting Representation

Congratulations to the following students for selection in the Western Australian teams in their respective sports:

Hudson Ostaszewskyj, Year 9, who will be representing WA in the Under 16 State Baseball Team at the National Australian Youth Championships in Melbourne in January 2026.

State and National Representation is an honour and an important stepping stone in an athlete’s journey. We commend these students for their dedication and commitment to their sport. If your child has achieved state or national recognition in their sport or extra-curricular activity, we would love to hear about it so we can celebrate their success. Please let us know the details by filling out this form. https://forms.office.com/r/qaCxCYLNX6

Mrs Anna Scanlan

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL SECONDARY (ACTING)

Mission Update – Term 4 Week 6

Jenni Vile on 21/11/2025

Recently, my family and I had a couple of visitors stay with us at home. My mother-in-law has been visiting from Cairns, spending time with her grandchildren, while only a week before, we welcomed my brother, who had travelled home from England to spend some time with his nieces and nephews before the Christmas break. It was a busy time in the lead up. Getting the house ready, planning out different things to do and just generally looking forward to seeing people that, as a family, we dearly love, but just don’t not get the opportunity to see very often.

In many ways, this is the same sense of expectation and hope that we experience in the lead up to Christmas. Soon, we will begin the season of Advent, a very special time in the Church calendar where we prepare for the arrival of Jesus. When I was younger, I understood this in the literal sense – that we are awaiting the celebration of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. But as I grew older, I began to understand Advent on a deeper level, too. That we are also preparing for the coming of Christ in our hearts. We do this through how we choose to live our lives, through prayer, love, and kindness to others.

The season of Advent also invites us to slow down, be still, notice God’s presence, and make space for Jesus in our busy lives. It encourages us to make time for prayer, be present to those who matter most, and still our focus, so we can live and love in the way of Jesus. As we come towards the end of the school year, my great hope for students and families is that they might enter into this season of Advent with a quiet heart. A heart that allows us to slow down, to put aside the distractions of Christmas parties and presents, and focus on how we can bring God’s love to those around us; how we can prepare not just for the birth of Jesus into the world, but the birth of Jesus into our hearts.

Philippines Immersion

Next week, we will say goodbye to our Year 11 students as they venture with Mr Box, Miss Mincherton, and Mrs Cooper to the Philippines for our annual Immersion. Students will visit a number of organisations that seek to support children who are living on the streets or who have been victims of serious abuse. They will offer their support and have the chance to encounter the stories of others, helping them grow in understanding and solidarity.

Sometimes, families might wonder why we have these types of experiences for our students.

An immersion can have many purposes. It can give students the chance to experience a different culture, to build empathy and compassion and to encounter our faith and values through lived experience. In the preparation we had with Year 11 students, we spoke about how the purpose of immersion is not to come back as a fully formed human, ready to leave their life behind to become a missionary. Rather, it is about opening our hearts to the experiences of others and being prepared to listen to where that may lead us. Perhaps developing a heart of service for those in need, no matter our career or vocation.

Two years ago, I visited the Philippines with a group of students for the first time, and since then, there has not been a week in which I have not found myself thinking about the people I met and the experiences I had. What does that mean for me? I am still not sure, in some part. But it sits within me, in my heart, like a whisper, constantly present as I reflect on the important things in life for me and my family.

I would like to invite all members of our school community over the coming weeks to keep our students and staff in their prayers as they begin their journey. We pray that they are kept safe and well, and that they may have an experience that touches their hearts and shapes them in life-giving ways.

Mr Stuart McClorey

DIRECTOR OF MISSION & CATHOLIC IDENTITY