As 2019 draws to a close, I would like to wish all our students and families a safe holiday and Holy Christmas. The Christmas holidays offer each of us an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with Jesus while also being grateful for the special people in our lives.
On behalf of our students, I would like to thank the staff for all their efforts in 2019 and the way in which they have supported our students throughout the year. We have a magnificent group of staff who not only support learning within the classroom but also provide numerous opportunities outside of it including such things as social occasions, camps, retreats, school tours, sports and the arts.
Have a great Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Years 7-11 Awards
Today the College held its Years 7-11 Awards afternoon. This afternoon was an opportunity to recognise students who have been outstanding across 2019. Students were recognised in the areas of curriculum, Guild leadership, sport and academic achievement. Congratulations to all our students on a terrific year, and a special thank you to the staff who made the afternoon such a memorable event.
Click here for the list of Award winners and more photos from the day.
Solve It
As in previous years, students in Years 7-9 have been busy taking part in Solve it. This is a project-based learning task that students complete outside of their normal classroom routine. Students work in groups made up of various year groups. Students are presented with a real-life problem and work as a group to put forward a solution. This process involves defining it, discussing it, creating a solution, tweaking the solution and finally pitching it to their peers & staff.
Problems for the 2019 groups included topics such as wellbeing challenges for FIFO workers, better ways to assess students other than exams, the College relocating our Marian Campus to the Churchlands site and ways the College can make better use of its space.
The Solve It final takes place on Thursday 12 December in the Marist Auditorium. Good luck to all our students.
2020 Uniform Guidelines and Grooming Expectations
Over the break, I strongly encourage students and parents to ensure uniforms are ready to go for the first day back, and that your child’s personal appearance is in keeping with College expectations. It is important that we start the school year on a positive note and the College is consistent in its expectations across Years 7-12. Please see the table below which contains further details.
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Girls
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Boys
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| Additional Sundry Items available from Uniform Shop – College bag, College sports bag, College Padlock |
Personal Appearance
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Return to School Dates 2020
On Monday 3 February, we will be welcoming our incoming Years 7 students, new students to the College and our Year 12 students. Further information will be sent to families in early January regarding specific details on how this will look for students.
Our first full College day will be Tuesday 4 February when we will have all of our Years 7-12 students on campus.
CDP Update 2020
The capital development on Marcellin Campus has begun. Students and staff will have limited access to Founders Court and A block for the remaining week, while C & W blocks are completely closed to students and staff. It is important that students obey the signage around the College and do not enter the building site. Failure to abide by the safety measures in place will put people at risk of injury.
Over the Christmas break work will increase on the site and a large amount of large and noisy work should be completed while students and staff are absent. We look forward to watching our capital development plan unfold over the coming months.
Marist Students Leadership Gathering
The Marist Student Leadership Gathering was an enriching experience for the four Year 11 students that participated last week. It was a great opportunity to not only network with other student leaders across Australia, but also share the positives and negatives about each other’s schools with the purpose of cultivating and planning for improvements within their own schools. They had the opportunity to hear from a range of guest speakers including current Principals and past College Captains. This helped them gain insight into their role as leaders and how to tackle various issues that arise.
Another key component of the gathering was to identify and evaluate good and positive leadership, recognising strengths and weaknesses of their own to nurture and facilitate for their leadership next year. Marist Youth Ministry organised the retreat in an engaging and faith-filled way, allowing the students to collaborate and create, while also learning different methods of prayer and spiritual reflection, to aid them with taking a step back, calming themselves and reflecting for best practice. Overall the students took away a myriad of skills and an experience they will treasure.
Aleisha Crump, Religious Education Teacher
Taking Action in Three Easy Steps
On Thursday 21 November, the Newman Nature Team organised a guest speaker to address our Years 7, 8 and 9 students about ways we can all make small daily steps to improve and help our environment.
A community-based group, Lost Environmentalists, presented to the students about three simple ways we can make a big difference to our environment and our local community. Jessica Taylor represented the group and helped us to understand the powerful impact we can have. Another member of the group is one of our alumni, Felicity Keet.
- Step 1: BYO
Remember to bring your own containers to minimise waste. The most significant impact we can have bringing our own reusable water bottles. A habit we are all embracing regularly. - Step 2: Take 3
Where possible minimise plastic pollutants from the environment by picking them up and putting them in the bin. Jessica helped us to realise the significant impact we could make if we each committed to picking up one piece of plastic a day for one year. We could help prevent 219,000 pieces of plastic from making their way into our waterways. - Step 3: Keep up to date
We can make a difference by advocating for the environment with our local members of Parliament.
Thank you to Alyssa Wardle for organising the presentation on behalf of Newman Nature. A special thank you to Jessica Taylor and her team from Lost Environmentalists for their generosity of time and preparation to help us see that we can take action today!
SolarBuddy
In their study of Geography in Term 1 this year, Year 7 Humanities students investigated the features that make a place livable. They discovered that some areas of the world are not as fortunate as we are in Australia, but that there is something that we can do to help; becoming part of the SolarBuddy project to provide renewable energy-powered lights for communities in need.
This year’s lights were delivered to Papua New Guinea, one of the most remote places on the planet, with the steep slopes of its majestic mountains making access to its people difficult. Here a diverse population lives in isolated pockets and speaks over 850 different languages. 400 lights, some of them made by Newman College students, were distributed by helicopter along the Kokoda Track to children attending Alola, Isurava and Hoi Elementary Schools. The children are able to use these solar lights rather than the expensive batteries or dangerous kerosene lamps that they had to use before.
SolarBuddy lights were also used to assist those who had to flee to care centers as a result of the volcanic eruption in Manam Island, Madang. The lights helped to inspire students to return to class.
We are very proud of Year 7 2019’s role in helping to illuminate the future of those children living in energy poverty. The impact of their donation is clear in the beaming smiles of the children who received their gift.
Catherine Bagg, Leader of Learning Humanities
Latest Sport News
- 2019 Highlights
- Individual Accomplishments
- Newman Sporting Association News
Homework Club
Homework Club will finish for 2019 at the end of Week 8. Thank you to all students, Marist Youth Mentors and staff that supported the Homework Club this year. In particular, I extend my thanks to Mrs Carolyn O’Connor, Ms Natalee Calegari and Mrs Sarah Pagett for their supervision and coordination of numeracy and literacy support initiatives.
Canteen Week 9
Thursday 12 December
Sundry items will be available at both recess and lunch as normal. Lunch on this day is restricted to a SAUSAGE SIZZLE at a cost of $3.00. Students can make payment using cash or their SmartRider card.
Counselling & Wellbeing Team
Healthy Headspace: Part 4 – Coping Skills & Mental Health
In the previous newsletters this Term, we have looked at some healthy habits related to sleep, eating, exercise and social interactions, which have a positive impact on mental health. In addition, it is important for each person to develop positive coping strategies, so that they can maintain their mental health when life presents its inevitable challenges. These things will be different for each person, but may include helpful self-talk, relaxation techniques, talking to someone, or creative activities such as writing or art.
Although it is normal for young people to feel down, angry or anxious at times, if these feelings persist for long periods, or impact negatively on daily life (e.g. school, work, relationships), they may be signs of a mental health difficulty. The below changes may be of concern if they are new, noticeable and persistent (lasting at least a few weeks):
- Not enjoying/wanting to be involved in usually enjoyed activities
- Changes in appetite or sleeping patterns
- Unexplained irritableness or anger
- Reduced performance at school
- Engagement in risky behaviours that they would usually avoid
- Difficulty concentrating
- Seeming unusually stressed, worried or down, or crying for no identifiable reason
- Expressing negative, distressing or unusual thoughts
If you are concerned that your child’s mental health is affecting their daily life, it is important to let them know that you are there to support them and that you can help them to access additional support. A good starting point is to schedule an appointment with your GP, who will be able to make a referral to a mental health professional. The sooner any concerns are acknowledged, and support is accessed, the sooner things can start to improve for your child.
The Counselling Team would like to wish you all a safe and peaceful holiday and we look forward to seeing you in 2020.
Beyond Blue
Three million Australians are living with anxiety or depression. Beyond Blue provides information and support to help everyone in Australia achieve their best possible mental health, whatever their age and wherever they live.
You can find more information by visiting the website.
Holiday Time
Holidays are a great time for students to catch their breath after a busy year. There are lots of activities on offer for students to get involved in. Below are some links that may be useful when trying to make plans over the Christmas break.
Today we celebrated the Years 7-11 Awards for the Academic, Cultural and Sporting pursuits of students.
Over two assemblies, we heard a number of musical items by the Chamber Choir and Symphonic Winds, along with photo slideshows highlighting all of the amazing experiences our students have enjoyed this year.
In his Principal’s Address, Mr Finneran reflected on the recent Philippines Immersion where he visited children who do not have the same rights and privileges as those who live in the Western Suburbs of Perth. He 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
Awards
The Awards presented were based on the four following categories:
Academic Excellence:
Presented to the student with the Highest Academic achievement in the year level or subject
Sport Awards:
Presented to outstanding representatives in College Sport.
Guild Awards:
Presented to students who have made an outstanding contribution to their Guild.
Community Awards:
Presented to students who have made an outstanding contribution to the life of the College and the wider community.
Congratulations to all students who received an award.
Download Years 7-11 Award Recipients
Major Awards
Congratulations to the following students who received a Major Award.
Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award
The Australian Defence Force proudly acknowledges students who have shown outstanding qualities in Leadership, Teamwork, Problem Solving, Resourcefulness, Communication, Cooperation and Community Involvement. On behalf of the Australian Defence Force we are proud to present this year’s award to Alessandro Tartaglia, Year 10.
James Stephen McNulty Mathematics Prize
James McNulty was the inaugural Dux of Newman College in its founding year in 1977. He had a particular love of and gift for Mathematics. While pursuing his Medical studies at the University of Western Australia, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour and passed away in 1984. His family have awarded this prize in his memory. This prize is awarded to the Highest Achieving Mathematics Student in Year 11. Congratulations Jack Towie, Year 11.
Dux & Proxime Accessit Award
These awards are determined by considering academic performance throughout the year in the five common curriculum subjects of Religious Education, English, Humanities, Maths and Science. These top academic students are a very talented group who, with the support of their teachers, have worked hard to achieve at the highest standard.
Proxime Accessit Year 7 – Harper Gamble
Dux Year 7 – Ariana Mason
Proxime Accessit Year 8 – Zack Chambers
Dux Year 8 – Benjamin Borgas
Proxime Accessit Year 9 – Owen Karamfiles and Jackson Kallawk
Dux Year 9 – Jacob Iannantuoni
Proxime Accessit Year 10 – Molly Grant
Dux Year 10 – Jemima Paterson
Proxime Accessit Year 11 – Jack Towie
Dux Year 11 – Kate Broderick
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.
More details to follow.
It has been a very successful year for Newman College Sport due largely to the hard work and dedication from all of our athletes in a wide range of carnivals and events. Some of the highlights include;
- 8 NAS Premierships
- Top 5 Finish in ACC A Division Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals
- ACC Girls Hockey Challenge Champions
- Senior Girls School Sport WA Water Polo Champions
- 1st XVIII Glenn Jakovich Cup Premiers
Individually;
- Eleven Newman athletes received ‘All Star” status in ACC Swimming, Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals
- Josh Baker (Year 12) received ‘ACC Letters’ in Athletics
- Luke Burke (Year 7) won the Junior Boys School Sport WA State Triathlon
Along with these outstanding achievements, Newman also had successful Marist Carnival Tours to Victoria for Basketball and Alice Springs for Netball. The Marist 1st XI Cricketers are currently competing in Lismore, NSW and are due back in Perth today.
Being a member of a Marist Touring Team is a great honour and privilege. All students chosen for Marist Teams are selected as much for their attitude and character as their sporting ability. It should be an ambition for all younger students to work hard and improve to one day continue the tradition.
It is also important to acknowledge all of the staff and coaches for giving of their time, especially those from the Newman Sporting Association. NSA coaches help to promote a strong partnership between the College and Clubs which significantly benefits the development of all athletes.
The College provides countless opportunities to be involved in sport and exercise which we all know has a positive influence, contributing to good health and wellbeing. We look forward to further participation, healthy competition, success and enjoyment in 2020.
Matthew Connell, Head of Sport
Individual Accomplishments
- Well done to Tatenda Makova (Year 11) scoring an unbeaten century against Assumption College in today’s match at the Marist Cricket Carnival. This was the first century by a Newman student at a Marist Carnival in 17 years. Tatenda is also the Captain of the 2019 team.
- Congratulations Mackenzie Webb (Year 10) who was acknowledged and awarded Most Valuable Player in both netball and football for both Marist Football Club and Newman Sienna Netball Club. In the netball she was voted by the parents each week and the football was by the coaching staff.
Newman Sporting Association News
Swimming
Hockey
Download Newman Knights Hockey Club 2020 Registration
Netball
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.
The 2019 Philippines immersion was once again a memorable experience for Year 11 students from Newman College and St Joseph’s School, Northam. Students departed Perth full of hope and eager to engage in service. They were greeted by the humidity and confronted by great wealth juxtaposed with immense poverty. Our immersion began with the Eucharist during which we were introduced to the deep commitment the local Filipino people have to the Catholic faith.
We journeyed to Olongopo City to work with the Preda Centre and met Fr Shay Cullin who shared with us the challenging, yet important work, the Preda Centre is doing to protect the rights of the child. We heard countless stories of human trafficking and abuse and learnt how the important work of Preda seeks to bring justice and restore the dignity of every child. Our Pilgrims spent time in with the indigenous Aeta community, learning about their farming methods and sharing in their way of life. The Preda Centre supports over 80 Aeta communities to help educate and bring an end to trafficking and abuse. Following our stay in Olongopo, the group travelled to Iriga, on the island of Naga, to visit the Fatima Centre. This organisation provides support for children who are parentless or whose parents can’t afford to meet their needs. The founder of this centre, Sr Felicitas, shared with the group her important life lessons. Most memorable being the idea that we only know love if it is shared with us. We spent time in the classroom and a Friendship Assembly was organised where the local students shared cultural dances and their talents with us.
Following our return to Manila, the pilgrims visited the Kuya Centre for Street Children. This organisation works with young boys who live on the streets and assists with finding long term accommodation and education. Sr Kate shared with the pilgrims the challenges they have with some of the boys and families, most of whom are suffering from extreme poverty, substance abuse, domestic violence and a variety of other issues. We were taken to a street community by a Kuya social work, Jorge. He shared with the group some of the programs he facilitates to support the communities and young children.
The immersion was a time of growth for staff and students. It challenged the group to develop a better understanding of our privilege and to be grateful for the things we have. All groups we met welcomed us with the same ‘Family Spirit’ we espouse as Marists and did so with a joy and gratitude that astounded the students given their context. Our students will return home, wanting to share their experience, ready to be a voice for those who are voiceless in our society and to share the stories of the people they encountered. A special thanks to all involved in organising such an important event for the College, especially Vanessa Strohmeier who arranged all things and was a support for the group throughout.
Simon Martino, Leader of Wellbeing Year 9
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.
Term 4 Update
As Term 4 comes to an end, we continue to recognise the efforts of our students and acknowledge outstanding achievement.
On Friday 6 December we will have our Awards Ceremony that begins at 1.00pm and will conclude at 3.00pm in the College Gymnasium. This afternoon recognises student achievement across our learning areas within the context of 2019. It is also an event that acknowledges outstanding student achievement within the area of Guilds and sporting teams at the College. Parents are encouraged to attend the afternoon.
Our Year 11 students are coming to the end of exams and we hope they have been successful in their endeavours. In the coming weeks we will see our Year 10 students embark on their own examinations and we wish them all the best with their studies.
Term 4 will conclude on Friday 6 December for our Year 10 students and on Thursday 12 December for our Years 7-9 students. We encourage students to start emptying their lockers gradually over their final days in order to avoid having to transport a large amount of personal items home in their bags on the final day.
Singapore Learning Immersion Highlights
Twenty-five Years 9 and 10 students went on an exciting and challenging learning immersion at Republic Polytechnic in Singapore from 2 – 9 November 2019. Students have reflected on their experiences from the inaugural learning immersion. Click here to read their reflections and see more photos from the trip.
Music Showcases Highlights
The Sunset Vibes vocal showcase was held in the Marist Auditorium on Tuesday 12 November. The concert featured vocal students from Years 8-11 who performed solos and duets drawn from a range of contemporary styles with a relaxed, summertime mood. Congratulations to all performers and thank you to the College vocal teachers Mrs Heidi Lake and Mrs Nicole Boddy. Thank you to parents for their support of our vocal students.
The Year 7 Music Collective was held in the Marist Auditorium on Tuesday 19 November. The audience was entertained by solos and small group performances by students from the Special Instrumental Program, as well as the SIP singers accompanied by the Years 6 and 7 choir, the ‘Jazz Crackers’ Jazz Combo and Concert Winds. Congratulations to all performers for an entertaining evening and thank you to the instrumental teachers and Auditorium staff for their hard work in preparing for this event. Thank you to parents for their support of the Year 7 music students.
Year 10 River Cruise Highlights
Our Year 10 cohort rounded off their social calendar before embarking on exams with a river cruise on the Swan River on Tuesday 19 November. Dressed to impress in their best Heroes and Villains costumes, the perfect weather and beautiful city skyline backdrop, added to the already electric atmosphere on the boat. It was a perfect way to celebrate the end of another school year!
Business & Enterprise Program – ‘Craftworks’
The students from Diversity Education have been involved with a Business & Enterprise Program over many years. This program offers the students the opportunity to develop skills for life beyond the classroom including financial and economic understanding whilst developing entrepreneurial and employment skills. During the program the students design and create occasional cards, design & decorate gift bags & gift tags, design and create scrunchies, headbands and hair clips for sale to the public. In recent years we have teamed up with the Materials Design and Technology team in woodwork, to create chopping boards, cheese boards, wine/oil holders and planters.
These popular items are sold through ‘Craftworks’ at stalls across a variety of venues. They are always a huge success particularly around Mothers Day, Fathers Day and Christmas. Last Monday saw a pop-up stall at the Floreat Forum, with all money raised reinvested into our Craftworks Business and a donation made to a selected charity. $575 was raised through the stall. The students are to be commended for the way in which they interacted with our local community, as usual they did Newman College proud. Congratulations to all involved in this wonderful enterprise program.
Sharon Wills, Coordinator Education Support
Latest Outdoor Ed & Sport News
- Year 10 Outdoor Ed Exhibition
- Junior Water Polo Competition
- Marist Cricket
- Individual Accomplishments
- Newman Sporting Association News
Homework Club
Please see below for information pertaining to Homework Club during the remaining weeks of Term 4.
Week 7:
During Week 7, staff from various departments will be available during Homework Club each day. These staff have made themselves available to assist Year 10 students with preparation for their exams, which are taking place during Week 8. The Marist Youth mentors will also be available during this time to assist students with study and exam technique advice.
Week 8:
This will be the final week for Homework Club for 2019. Year 10 students who are sitting exams during this week are welcome to attend Homework Club, as there will be teachers and Marist Youth mentors available to assist with their study.
Week 9:
Homework Club will not run during Week 9. However, the Siena Learning Centre will continue to remain open until 4.00pm each day.
Literacy Update
MacqLit Progress
Throughout Semester Two, the College has been investing in the resourcing, training and delivery of the Macqlit program. This initiative involves one-to-one and small group sessions with students from Years 7 and 8, with the aim of improving reading fluency and comprehension. To highlight growth, the students involved in the program are regularly monitored with reading assessments. Although this approach is resource-intensive, it has made a marked difference in the reading fluency of students involved. Over the last two months, participants have demonstrated an average growth of 32% in their reading fluency, measured in the amounts of correct words per minute read aloud. These are very pleasing results, reflecting a significant amount of work from the students participating in the program, and both the staff and parents supporting its implementation. Throughout 2020, the MacqLit program will continue to run, supporting low-progress readers and students with literacy difficulties. As reading ability is crucial to future success for all students in both school and life, the MacqLit program is just one example highlighting the College’s commitment to improving the literacy outcomes for all students.
Careers and Development Update
Murdoch Summer School
If you are starting Year 12 next year, you might be interested in the Murdoch University Summer School Program. Over three weeks (6 – 24 January 2020), students will take part in workshops, lectures and labs with the aim of:
- Preparing for Year 12: Each unit will explore new perspectives, learning strategies and knowledge for your year 12 studies.
- Receive credit towards a Murdoch degree: On completing the program, you’ll receive a certificate and three points of credit towards a Murdoch degree, which is the equivalent of one subject or unit.
- Complete a university-level subject while you’re still at school: When you start at university, you’ll feel right at home in your new surroundings.
Click here for more information and to register.
Counselling & Wellbeing Team
Healthy Headspace: Part 3 – Social Engagement
Social relationships are essential for wellbeing and friends can be an important source of support during tough times. Encouraging your child to spend time engaging in activities with friends will help to develop existing relationships and can reduce stress and anxiety. If your child does not feel up to going out, a phone call or text message can help them to feel connected to friends and family, while encouragement to get involved with clubs or sports can help your child to feel more connected to others and the wider community.
Socialising and maintaining friendships can be difficult as your child may feel left out or even criticised by others at times. When this happens, remind your child that it’s normal to feel this way and that the feelings will pass. Listening to your child’s perspective will help them to feel heard and understood. Encouraging your child to practice assertiveness skills, such as listening to and respecting others’ opinions, and reaching compromises, will allow him/her to resolve conflicts in a way that strengthens relationships, while building their own self-esteem and self-respect.
