As a Marist school, we are guided by the core value of Family Spirit – a commitment to welcoming, supporting, and respecting one another. Neurodiversity and Harmony Week is an opportunity to live out this characteristic, celebrating the diversity that makes up our school community and nurturing an environment where everyone feels valued and included. Just as a family embraces its members with love and understanding, we embrace the diverse backgrounds, traditions, experiences, and ways of thinking, including neurodiversity, that enrich our school.
Over the course of the week, students from PK to 12 will partake in a range of activities focusing on shifting perceptions, challenging stereotypes, and fostering inclusive environments where difference is celebrated, and individuals are valued for their unique perspectives and contributions. Further details on these activities can be found in the Primary and Secondary school updates of this newsletter.
Newman Parents Forum
The Newman Parent Forum is an opportunity for parents to connect with College leadership and contribute to the life of the school. Held once per term, the Newman Parent Forum is led by the Principal and Vice Principal in collaboration with the Newman Parent K-12 Executive Committee.
The Newman Parent Forum works in partnership with the College Executive to support key events, advance the Strategic Plan, and advocate for both the College and its families within the school and wider community.
We encourage all parents to take part in these forums to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing growth of Newman College.
The next Newman Parents Forum is taking place this Monday 17 March at 6pm in the JHN Learning Hub or you can join online on Teams, just click here. We hope to see you there!
Student Planned Absence during Term Time
At Newman College, we value the role of family time and shared experiences, but we also emphasise the importance of regular school attendance to ensure the best educational outcomes for our students. As part of our commitment to academic integrity and fairness, the College has a strict Assessment Policy regarding absences for holidays during term time, which may result in students being penalised on assessments if the absence is not approved.
Under the Education Act 1999 (WA), parents have a legal responsibility to ensure their child attends school unless there is a valid reason, such as illness or exceptional circumstances. Extended absences for holidays disrupt learning and place students at a disadvantage, especially when assessments and coursework cannot be replicated outside the classroom without compromising the assessment validity.
Classroom assessments are carefully designed to measure a student’s understanding and progress within the curriculum. When students miss these key learning opportunities, it becomes challenging to ensure they meet academic expectations. Additionally, teachers are unable to provide alternative assessments or replicate the in-class experience, reinforcing the importance of attendance.
We strongly encourage families to plan holidays during designated school breaks to support their child’s academic success. If extenuating circumstances arise, parents must seek approval from the College in advance.
We have been advised that the Traffic Warden, who supervises the pedestrian crossing on Hale Road, near Lombardy Street, will be absent on Wednesday 19 March 2025. The Children’s Crossing Unit (WA Police) has confirmed that a replacement will not be available during this time.
We kindly ask all families to exercise extra caution when using the crossing during this period.
As we enter past the halfway point of the school term, I see more and more students having to make choices between what occupies their time. Everyday students are juggling study, homework, friendships, co-curricular opportunities…I am sure for some students it feels like a list that could go on forever! In the busyness of it all, it is easy to bounce from one thing to the next. Our life quickly becomes a ‘tick box’ exercise where we seek to move from one thing to the next, clearing our schedules only for more things to take their place. It is very easy in these moments to neglect our spiritual wellbeing, and yet making time for this, is so vital to our health and having a sound mindset.
The season of Lent is an invitation for us to pause and reflect on how we are living. What are the things we are giving priority to in our lives? Who are those around us that could benefit from our presence, our love, and our care? Lent is not just about giving things up, as we may all remember from our time in primary school It is about making space – for God, for ourselves, and for others. It is a time for us to slow down, to refresh, and to realign our hearts with what truly matters.
On Wednesday, we had a number of our Year 11 and 12 students travel down to Bunbury for the first of our Marist Youth Ministry Connect Nights – an opportunity to step away from the distractions of school and life, and focus on faith, community, and self-reflection. Forming a group of over 60 from Newman College, Bunbury Catholic College, and St Joseph’s Northam, students gathered together, being present to one another, and allowing themselves time to be nurtured as they explored our Marist theme Pilgrims of Hope: Look Beyond together. Their example of finding space in the busiest of circumstances is one we can all share in.
Moments like these Connect Nights remind us that spiritual growth doesn’t just happen – it requires us to be intentional about putting aside time in our lives. Creating space can be difficult, but in those moments when we can, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day, we can better hear God’s call in our lives, and be cognisant of his presence among us. We gain clarity about who we are, who we are becoming, and how we can be more present to others.
As we approach the second week of Lent, my great hope is that the students, staff, and families of our community can be intentional about making time for their own reflection and renewal – whether it be through a family conversation at the dinner table at the end of the day, committing to doing something for the community together, or even simply expressing gratitude to someone who has done something special for you. By doing so, we open ourselves to transformation, drawing closer to God and becoming more fully like the people he calls us to be.
Looking for a moment in your week to pause, reflect, and reset? Each Friday during Lent, students, staff, and families are welcome to join us for a short reflection in our Champagnat Chapel. We look forward to making everyone feel welcome.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. The purpose of the week is to help others understand, value, and celebrate the talents of neurodiverse minds. During the week, secondary students will have an opportunity to learn more about neurodiversity with the aim to increase acceptance and understanding and to celebrate neurodiversity.
HarmonyWeek is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds.
It’s about inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background. Australia’s cultural diversity is one of our greatest strengths and makes Australia a great place to live. Building on over 65 000 years of First Nations cultures, Australia has become home to migrants from nearly 300 different ancestries.
All people who migrate to Australia bring with them some of their own cultural and religious traditions. They also take on many new traditions. Collectively, these traditions have enriched our nation.
While Harmony Week celebrates Australia’s rich cultural diversity, it is also important to focus on the urgency of combatting racism wherever and whenever it arises. Whilst Harmony Day is celebrated on Friday 21 March, it also coincides with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (IDERD).
To show support for cultural diversity and an inclusive Australia, students are invited to wear orange accessories such as a hair ribbon, socks or scarf or an accessory that recognises their own cultural heritage such as a scarf or piece of jewellery with their Academic Uniform on Friday 21 May. Your child is welcome to check with their Leader of Wellbeing prior to Friday if they are unsure about their accessory.
Year 7 & 11 EGT Programs:
As part of the Year 7 EGT program, Year 7s will be participating in physical activities on Tuesday 18 March. Year 7 students are permitted to wear their Guild Uniform to and from school on this day.
On Tuesday 25 March, Year 11 students will be attending the RAC bstreetsmart event at RAC Arena. This event aims to demonstrate the consequences of distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and informs students on how to reduce risk taking behaviours. Further information has been communicated with families via Consent2Go.
Student Early Departures:
If your child needs to be collected prior to the end of the school day for a scheduled appointment or another approved reason, please ensure that you have contacted the College beforehand. As students do not have their mobile phones on them during the school day to receive reminder messages, it is imperative that they know what time they are to meet you at Student Reception in order to minimise disruptions to classes. Thank you for your support.
Please be reminded that all students are required to adhere to the Uniform Requirements and Personal Appearance Guidelines. Students who do not meet the College’s uniform expectations will be required to address the issue before attending classes. Students are required to wear full academic uniform on all days, unless parents have been notified.
Marching Forward: UN Women’s International Women’s Day at Optus Stadium
On March 7th, Optus Stadium hosted the UN Women’s International Women’s Day event, a powerful gathering focused on gender equality, leadership, and change. With a stark gender pay gap of 21.8% and 1 in 3 Australian women experiencing violence, the event served as both a celebration and a call to action.
Speakers included Minister for Women Sue Ellery, highlighted the need for systemic change, particularly in leadership, where only 1 in 5 CEOs are women. Discussions explored how shifting cultural expectations—especially in traditionally nurturing and service roles—can create a more balanced future.
Dr. Carmen Lawrence emphasized that true collaboration depends on trust, while Suzy Urbaniak of Core Learning Foundation promoted reverse mentoring, encouraging young women to guide seasoned professionals in today’s evolving workforce. Lyn Beazley and June Oscar AO championed First Nations gender justice, aligning with Beijing +30’s global goals.
A key theme was the intersection of climate change and gender, with projections indicating that by 2050, 158 million girls could be pushed into extreme poverty.
Celeste Barber, known for her impact on social media, shared insights on using digital platforms for advocacy. She also spoke on ADHD diagnosis, choosing resilience over insecurity, and forging ahead despite obstacles.
The event also emphasised financial empowerment, mentorship, and advocacy, reinforcing the four essential pillars of change—government, industry, community, and business.
Mrs Delia Kretzmann, Miss Tiyana Kerimi and Mrs Lara Ognenis attended the event on behalf of the College.
Year 7 – 12 Guild Swimming Champions Assembly:
On Monday, 10 March, the entire secondary College community gathered to celebrate our 2025 Guild Swimming Champions. Our Sports Captains, Amy Wilson and William Gilbert, reflected on the hard work and dedication of all our swimmers, whether they were chasing personal bests or competing to represent their Guild, the energy was incredible. A heartfelt thanks was extended to the many supporters whose cheers created an atmosphere of excitement that drove every race.
We also had four impressive records broken of the day.
Owen Wright broke the 50m Breaststroke record in a time of 32.98 seconds!
Jackson Paynter broke an incredible three records on the day:
50m Freestyle – 26.05 seconds
50m Breaststroke – 33.23 seconds
50m Butterfly – 28.27 seconds
We are thrilled to announce our 2025 Guild Swimming Champions.
Jackson Paynter (Records – 50m Freestyle – 26.05 sec, 50m Breaststroke – 33.23 sec and 50m Butterfly – 28.27 sec)
Aaron Dines
James Bornmann
Year 12
Girls
Abi Fowler
Madie Turnbull
Jasin Afflick
Boys
Caleb McMahon
Jack Borgas
Flynn Morison
Year 7 Immunisations
Earlier this week families were sent an email regarding the Year 7 Immunisations taking place on Monday 31 March and Tuesday 1 April. The School-Based Immunisation team will be visiting Newman College to administer the dTpa vaccine booster (diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough) and the HPV vaccination (human Papillomavirus) to all Year 7 students. For this to occur, parental consent needs to be given by no later than Wednesday 26 March. All vaccines provided will be recorded in the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).
If you have not yet completed a consent, please complete the consent via VaccinateWA as soon as possible. Alternatively, you can download the Paper-based consent form and return it to the College.
Mrs Carla Pastorelli
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL SECONDARY
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 11
WACE (secondary graduation) requirements
In Year 11 and 12, students are progressing towards their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), otherwise known as their secondary graduation.
In order to achieve their WACE, students need to meet certain academic targets across Year 11 and 12. These are:
Demonstrate the minimum standard of literacy and numeracy (either in Year 9 NAPLAN or in Year 10-12 OLNA).
Be enrolled in English / Literature in Year 11 and 12.
Be enrolled in at least 1 ‘List B’ (Maths / Science / Sport / Technology) subject.
Achieve at least 14 C grades, with at least 6 C grades in Year 12 subjects.
For students considering UniReady / UniPath in Year 12
A reminder to students on the General Pathway who are considering UniReady / UniPath in Year 12 next year. It is expected that students from the General Pathway would have participated in extra-curricular activities such as work experience, VET Certificates, Leadership, Service, and/or College sport. General Pathway students who have not participated in any of these extra-curricular activities may not be eligible for UniReady / UniPath.
For students thinking of attending University
TISC has a series of videos explaining things like ATAR calculation, prerequisite subjects, scaling, and preferences. You can find them here: https://www.tisc.edu.au/static/guide/video.tisc
The Bricklaying Job Ready Program is a FREE 4-week course designed for students eager to begin their journey in bricklaying. It offers the students a white card and experience in the bricklaying industry.
Course Dates: 1st Semester 2025:
Start date 10 March – South Metropolitan TAFE Rockingham
Start date 17 March – North Metropolitan TAFE Balga
Start date 5 May – North Metro TAFE Clarkson
Start date 2 June – South Metropolitan TAFE Thornlie
In Year 11 and 12, students are progressing towards their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), otherwise known as their secondary graduation.
In order to achieve their WACE, students need to meet certain academic targets across Year 11 and 12. These are:
Demonstrate the minimum standard of literacy and numeracy (either in Year 9 NAPLAN or in Year 10-12 OLNA).
Be enrolled in English / Literature in Year 11 and 12.
Be enrolled in at least 1 ‘List B’ (Maths / Science / Sport / Technology) subject.
Achieve at least 14 C grades, with at least 6 C grades in Year 12 subjects.
University Early Offer information
Please see below for the latest available Early Offer information.
Curtin University
No details as yet.
Edith Cowan University
Full information and list of eligible courses at: https://www.ecu.edu.au/degrees/early-offer-program Open to ATAR, Certificate IV, and UniReady students.Submit your Early Offer application by placing an eligible ECU course as your first TISC preference.First offers released to students on 2 September 2025.
TISC has a series of videos explaining things like ATAR calculation, prerequisite subjects, scaling, and preferences. You can find them here: https://www.tisc.edu.au/static/guide/video.tisc
Thinking of studying Medicine or Dentistry in 2026?
All students who wish to enrol in Medicine or Dentistry in 2025 (including Assured Pathway at UWA) will need to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) this year.
Please see below for some important dates:
4 March 2025: UCAT bookings open
16 May 2025: Deadline to book your UCAT for 2024
11 June 2025: Deadline if you need to cancel your UCAT booking
Also, students applying for Medicine at Curtin University are required to sit the CASPER Test. CASPER scores are valid only for the next available admissions year, so applicants should only complete the test in the year immediately preceding their planned year of admission.
The CASPER Test is held nationally and is sat online from home. Applicants are responsible for making their own arrangements to register for the CASPER Test.
The Bricklaying Job Ready Program is a FREE 4-week course designed for students eager to begin their journey in bricklaying. It offers the students a white card and experience in the bricklaying industry.
Course Dates: 1st Semester 2025:
Start date 10 March – South Metropolitan TAFE Rockingham
Start date 17 March – North Metropolitan TAFE Balga
Start date 5 May – North Metro TAFE Clarkson
Start date 2 June – South Metropolitan TAFE Thornlie
If you are a little like me, you are probably wondering where these first five weeks of term have gone. It only seems like yesterday students were coming in for their first lessons, and yet we’ve already got some students who are preparing for their second assessment. Life moves fast. We’re constantly juggling school, friendships, social media, sports, work, and everything in between. And when you’re busy, it’s easy to get caught up in it all and forget to take a step back…to reflect or think about the things that are happening.
That’s why the season of Lent is so important – it’s this great invitation to pause, to slow down, and to refocus on what truly matters.
Lent is a time of spiritual renewal – in other words it’s a chance to check in with ourselves and with God. It’s a time to ask:
Am I living in a way that reflects who I really want to be?
Am I making time for the things that truly matter?
Am I being the best person God has called me to be?
The reality is, we all get distracted – students, teachers, parents, families…everyone. We also all make mistakes. We say things we shouldn’t, act selfishly, and sometimes put ourselves first at the expense of others.
But God doesn’t hold onto our failures – he invites us to recognise them, learn from them, and start again. Lent gives us a way to do this through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.
Prayer is really interesting. When we hear of prayer, many of us might imagine someone sitting down to read the bible or perhaps going to the chapel where we make the sign of the cross. But prayer is just about connecting with God. For you, that might simply mean a small reflection, where you consider how you were kind that day. Or it could be a commitment you make each morning, to go out of your way to really make someone’s day. Or it could be the decision to reflect on the Gospel reading each day. It’s very simply about giving thought to the person you choose to be each day. You might ask yourself, perhaps, how God working in your life?
When we think of fasting, we might think back to our primary school days – the bold decision to give up chocolate for 40 days, only to gorge ourselves on Easter morning. But fasting isn’t just about giving up chocolate or social media, or whatever else you might choose. It’s about making space for what really matters. It’s about trying to reduce the distractions, or negativity, or things that pull us away from being our best selves in our lives, so we have time perhaps for prayer, or very simply, to connect with and be present to those around us.
And finally, Almsgiving. Very simply, almsgiving is about looking beyond ourselves. It’s about generosity – not just with our money, but with our time, our kindness, and our willingness to help others, especially to those who are vulnerable or in need.
In the Gospel for Ash Wednesday, Jesus talks to his followers about doing each of these things. But there is an important caveat he places on them too – that when we do these things, we should do it for the right reasons. Not to show off, or to virtue signal, or to appear better than others…. but because it is the right thing to do…it is what God wants us to do.
If we make a commitment to these practices, however small or large, in our own lives or household, Lent becomes more than just something that happens to finish the term – it becomes a time of real change. A time where we let go of what’s not important, strengthen our faith, and come out on the other side renewed – closer to God, more aware of His love, and more like the people we are called to be.
So, the invitation to the community is ours – make the most of this time. Let’s step back from the busyness, refocus our hearts, and use this season of Lent to grow in faith, love, and purpose.
Family Mass
It was great to celebrate our Family Mass last week, in what must be said, was some very favourable February weather (though I wouldn’t have minded a little less wind blowing everything off the altar!).
I would love for any families who are able, to provide us with some feedback on the Family Mass, so we can be better prepared to meet the needs of our community in our planning for next year too. You can click on the link to leave your feedback here .
‘Your Move’: Promoting Active Travel at Newman College
We are excited to re-engage with the ‘Your Move’ program to encourage active and sustainable travel for our PK-12 community. This award-winning initiative supports students and families in healthy activity, including walking, wheeling, and riding to school, while helping to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainability.
Through student-led activities, travel surveys, and curriculum-aligned lessons, we will track progress and celebrate achievements. Stay tuned for opportunities to get involved and help make active travel a part of everyday school life! More information on the initiative can be found at https://yourmove.org.au/schools.
Traffic Warden Absence & Road Safety Reminder
We have been advised that our Traffic Warden, who supervises the pedestrian crossing on Tuscany Way, will be absent from Tuesday 4 March to Friday 11 April 2025 (inclusive). The Children’s Crossing Unit (WA Police) has confirmed that a replacement will not be available during this time.
We kindly ask all families to exercise extra caution when using the crossing during this period. While our duty teachers will be present to support students, they are not authorised to perform the role of a Traffic Warden.
Traffic Safety Concern
Additionally, we have been informed that some motorists are stopping on the pedestrian crossing instead of at the designated stop line, particularly during peak drop-off and pick-up times. This congestion is making it difficult for the Traffic Warden to assist students safely.
To help resolve this issue, the Children’s Crossing Unit has asked Newman College to remind families to:
Be mindful of the crossing location and ensure vehicles do not obstruct it.
Stop only at the designated stop line to allow safe passage for pedestrians.
Always follow the Traffic Warden’s instructions.
We appreciate your support in ensuring the safety of all students and families in our community.
The Season of Lent
Next week we celebrate Shrove Tuesday; a day for us to pause, and consider how we are living our lives as we prepare for the season of Lent. Traditionally, people would eat pancakes on this day as a way of using up their rich ingredients prior to Lent. Our students will certainly have the opportunity to do the same, with pancakes on sale in Marcellin for $2, and also in the primary school for a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to Caritas.
The following day, Ash Wednesday, will see liturgies taking place across the College for all of our students. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a season of repentance and renewal, where the ashes remind us of our need to turn back to God and live as Jesus taught. It is certainly a special and significant time in our College calendar, and I encourage all students, over the course of next week, to consider the small but meaningful changes they can make in their own lives to make Jesus known and loved in our community.
Community Mass
Join us every Thursday at 8.00am in the Champagnat Chapel for our Community Mass. Open to all members of our community, this student-led celebration is a wonderful opportunity to gather in faith, with a different Guild hosting each week. It is also a great chance to connect with others as we strengthen family spirit. We look forward to seeing you there!
Communicable Disease Policy and Procedures
Parents/guardians are required to inform the College of any communicable illness or disease that their child is diagnosed with and not allow them to attend school while infectious. Further information can be found in the Communicable Disease (Student) Policy and Procedures.
