Feast of the Assumption
The Feast of the Assumption is a special day in the life our Catholic Church, as it is for the Institute of the Marist Brothers fms. This is the day chosen as their Feast Day at the time of their foundation by Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers and of Marist Education.
On Thursday 15 August we celebrated Mass for Pre Kindergarten – Year 6 in the Marist Auditorium and Years 7- 12 in the Gymnasium. Both occasions were purposeful and liturgically important as this Feast Day defines our College’s foundation. On this day we come to together as a Marist family to celebrate our faith and our community with Jesus’ mother Mary as our constant.
For many Christians today we are confronted by the challenges that life presents often in the uncertainties of the future. Pope Benedict XVI emeritus says that “being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person which gives life to a new horizon and a decisive direction.” For our students we want to provide opportunities that give them a purpose, a sense of agency and a direction to navigate the future ahead. Celebrating the Feast of the Assumption is one such encounter that will enable us all to reflect on our Christian story and the hope it provides for the future ahead.
Student Engagement
So many magnificent events have occurred over the last few weeks. The STEM Festival, Science and Humanities Week, Buddy Day, Year 7 Disco, our Primary Dancers performing at the Perth Concert Hall and the Catholic Arts Festival to name but a few. Further details of all these events can be seen in throughout Newsletter.
I had the great privilege to attend Prendiville College for the Catholic Performing Arts Festival to watch our Year 8 Band ‘Outbreak’ and ‘Newman Groove’. Both bands were incredible! The students’ love of music was clearly on show as exemplified by their energy and talents. To this end our Vision for Learning Shine through Discovery – let your light shine is clearly evident in all that we do.
Marian Campus Playgroup
We aspire to create the best possible learning opportunities for children at Newman College. As part of this commitment, we have launched the Newman College Playgroup. This new initiative provides young families with access to our wonderful learning facilities, along with educational oversight by the Newman College Leader of Wellbeing Early Childhood, Lisa McClue. A unique Playgroup setting offers families support with the first steps towards structured education for their child.
Families can apply to enrol in Newman College Playgroup by clicking here.
Newman Parent Consultative Committee (NPPC)
Last week, the NPCC meeting was both fruitful and insightful. We commenced the discussion and feedback on the development of our College’s next Strategic Plan. I piloted the following three questions:
- Identify three aspects of Newman College that engages your children in their learning.
- Identify three areas that you would like to see improved.
- What new initiatives or programs would you like to see?
The ensuing discussion was constructive and directive to the process and eventual development of the Plan. Next week I will repeat this process with the College Advisory Council and in the weeks ahead with our students. By mid September the timeline indicating a period of community consultation will be communicated.
Student Voice
I will be holding a series of morning teas and lunches for students across the College this term to listen to their opinions on the direction of the College. As stated above, I will be trialing questions that will eventually become part of the consultation process for the development of the next Strategic Plan.
Catholic Education Staff Breakfast
Catholic Education WA recognizes staff who have given service to Catholic Education for 30 or more years. This year, Newman College celebrated with three members of staff who were presented with awards at this very special event. We congratulate:
- Mrs Terri White, Education Assistant Arts
- Mrs Lucy Zambonetti, Teacher of Year 5
- Mr John Geekie, Leader of Wellbeing Year 10
Mitchell Bristow
As announced earlier in the week, Mr Mitchell Bristow, Head of Primary, has been appointed to the position of Principal at St Gerard’s Primary School Westminster, commencing 2020. We congratulate Mitchell on this wonderful achievement and we wish him every success and fulfillment in his new role and indeed into the future.
On Friday 2 August, the Year 12 Remar Gold Caravel embarked on our very last retreat before our graduation.
We began with a few fun games to raise our spirits and then spent time reflecting on our Remar journey and personal growth. We also enjoyed celebrating Oliver Prudham’s birthday with some cake and good bonding time in between the activities.
A key activity we partook in was planning ways in which we can serve the community, focusing on particular ministry activities that we can do both as an individual and as a Caravel. After being given helpful advice and celebrating Mass thanks to the lovely work of Father Israel, we headed to Wembley golf course for a fun afternoon of mini-golf. Personally I did not perform too well, my teammates didn’t even need to count my score at the end to find the winner!
After mini-golf, we enjoyed an awesome buffet dinner at the Amberley Estate where we took part in a series of meaningful conversations. Throughout the session we all had to move about the tables, which encouraged us to converse with peers we may not have spoke to much throughout the day.
Overall it was an incredible day that all members of the Caravel can look back on and enjoy as we head off into the future. The retreat could not have been successfully held without the tremendous leadership of Daniel Litjens (Class of 2016), Mrs Cole-Carter, Mr Van der Heever and Brother Terry, who were supported by Josh Sampson and Sarah Whitton from the 2018 Gold Caravel.
Ben Miniello, Year 12 Student
On a sunny but chilly winters day, the Year 12 ATAR Geography students ventured out of the classroom on our final field excursion.
The intrepid geographers, along with Mrs March and Mr Diamond, began their day in the CBD before crossing the river and heading south to Cockburn Central, an example of a strategy to combat Perth’s urban sprawl. We then headed back to the CBD to further investigate examples of urban processes and urban renewal strategies in Elizabeth Quay, East Perth and the Perth City Link. Our final trek through Northbridge, in the inner mixed zone, did indeed open our eyes to the mix of land-uses and pedestrians in this diverse zone.
A final and fabulous end to two years of studying Geography.
Janet March, Humanities Teacher
PK–12 celebrations for the Feast of the Assumption
Today, Thursday 15 August was the Feast Day of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This Feast day was chosen for the Marist Brothers at the time of their foundation by Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers and Marist Education.
To mark this significant Feast and Day of Holy Obligation in the life of the Church as well as the international Marist Institute, our PK-12 College Community celebrated the Feast of the Assumption across the College. As one of 54 Marist schools across Australia, the Feast Day of the Assumption is an annual opportunity for all members of the Newman College community to gather, give thanks, and to celebrate our shared Marist identity.
The Marian and Lavalla Campus students combined to celebrate Mass, Buddy Day activities and the annual Lapathon to raise money for the work of Australian Marist Solidarity (AMS). All funds raised from the Lapathon will be directed towards the Kuya Centre for Street Children in Manila. The Kuya Centre is one of the College’s partner organisations of the Year 11 Philippines Immersion. In November this year, our Year 11 Immersion students will present our donation to Sister Kate O’Neill, Director of the Kuya Centre, on behalf of the Newman College community.
Students on the Marcellin Campus gathered for Mass in the Gymnasium.
Click here to learn more about the work of Australian Marist Solidarity.
Australian Catholic Youth Festival
The Australian Catholic Youth Festival (ACYF) is a national gathering of Catholic young people established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC). It exists to provide young Australians with opportunities to deepen their relationship with Jesus, be empowered to be disciples in the world today and encounter and celebrate the vitality of the Church in Australia. This year the ACYF will be held in Perth between 8 – 10 December. Young people between the ages of 14 and 35 from around Australia will be invited to:
- Participate in high-quality formative and experiential opportunity for young Catholics to encounter Jesus Christ, in the context of the Catholic Church in Australia;
- Listen to and discuss the issues and challenges in the lives of young Catholics in Australia;
- Engage with local examples and connections of vocations, social action, liturgy and prayer, catholic music and faith formation.
Students in Year 9 from the College will be invited to apply to attend ACYF. This event will take the place of the Remar Embarkation camp this year.
Weekly Thursday Morning Community Mass (Champagnat Chapel – 8.10am – 8.35am)
All parents, guardians and families across our PK-12 College are invited to attend the weekly Thursday morning Mass. Our weekly Newman College Community Mass is an important way that we as a Catholic community seek to nourish and live-out our faith in community with one another.
St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal
Newman College is supporting St Vincent de Paul’s Winter Appeal by collecting blankets during Term 3. This winter, many families, including children, will be forced to spend the night without adequate warmth or in some cases, without adequate shelter.
The Newman College Community endeavours to imitate Mary’s tenderness and concern for others, particularly the manner in which she lived out her faith with courage in the face of great pain and adversity. Donating a blanket is a simple way to follow Mary’s example and to live the Gospel Message to “Love your neighbour” (Mark 12:31). By doing so, families will be standing in solidarity with those who are on the margins this winter. This appeal is one of the many Social Justice activities and projects students and families are able to support throughout the year. We thank you for your support.
Donations
Blankets should be in good condition, recently cleaned and free from pet hair. Donations can be made at all three College Campuses:
- Marcellin: Champagnat Chapel
- Lavalla: Reception
- Marian: Reception
The final day to donate is Friday 30 August, 2019.
If you have any questions regarding the appeal, please feel free to contact Clare Cole-Carter, Leader of Youth Ministry and Advocacy clare.cole@cewa.edu.au or 9024 9416
REMAR Gold Retreat
On Friday 2 August, the Year 12 Remar Gold Caravel embarked on their very last retreat before our graduation. Click here to read and see more photos from the day.
Veritas Night
Veritas is an annual gathering of Catholic young people in Western Australia aged 12-35. It exists as a state wide festival, which aims to provide young people in Western Australia with an opportunity to deepen their faith and take an active role in the Church and community.
This year the event took place at John XXII College on Friday 9 August and attracted close to 900 young people. The theme of the festival was Christ is Alive. Year 9 students from the College were accompanied to the festival where they met other young people, enjoyed live bands, heard from dynamic speakers and participated prayer. It was wonderful to see so many young people celebrating their faith together.
Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Doubleview First Holy Communion – Saturday 21 September, 6.00pm
Due to number of requests from families to attend the Saturday night Sacrament of the First Holy Communion celebration, the Parish has decided to combine Saturday and Sunday masses so that all Year 4 children can celebrate together. Please contact Kaye Shervington, Pastoral Associate for further inquiries 0411 123 441 or doubleview@perthcatholic.org.au
Keep Australia Beautiful Week – 19 to 25 August
Keep Australia Beautiful Week is held late August each year to raise awareness about the simple things we can all do in our daily lives to reduce our impact on the environment and encourage action. Click here to register your clean up or event for KAB Week. For further inquiries: contact (02) 8594 4077 or admin@kab.org.au
World Refugee and Migration Week – 19 to 25 August
It is not just about migrants but also about ourselves, our fears, our hopes. How is God encouraging and inviting us? Who are we becoming? What kind of society are we preparing for those who come after us? For the 105th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, the Australian Catholic Migrant and Refugee Council has prepared a resource that is available online. Click here for further information. Click here to also read Fr Frank Brennan SJ’s Homily Reflection for Migrant and Refugee Sunday 2019 (see page 20).
Uniform Expectations
Newman College has a clear uniform expectation and we seek to ensure that this is applied fairly and evenly among the different year groups. It is very pleasing to see that the vast majority of students adhere to the Uniform Policy and Requirements and present themselves well. Key areas for students to remember are:
- Makeup/ Jewellery
- Hair length
- Skirt length
- Wearing of blazers
I would like to thank students and parents for their support. If there are any concerns, please contact your child’s Leader of Wellbeing.
Counselling & Wellbeing Team
This week, the Year 9 students had their first Wellbeing Talk. Headspace returned to the College to present on the topic of mental health and spoke about ways that students can look after their own wellbeing. Headspace will be returning again next week to talk to the Years 7 and 8 students during extended PCG. These presentations provide an introduction to mental health on which further knowledge and skills can be built.
Pathways and Careers Update
Click here to see all of the upcoming list of events that may be useful for students and parents.
Latest Sport News
- Guild Athletics Carnival
- ACC Athletics Squad Training
- Run Club
- Strength & Conditioning Program
- Cricket Registrations
Click here to read more.
Science Week
In Weeks 3 and 4, Newman College was proud to be involved in celebrating National Science Week! Kicking off with a literal bang last Friday, all students from Kindy – Year 12 were treated to a spectacular rockets and explosions Science Show put on by Mr Spriggins and Mr Shuckstes.
The festivities continued into Week 4, with students participating in a giant bubble-making challenge, a paper plane throwing challenge, a science-themed Kahoot competition and a wildlife show from WestOz Wildlife. Newman College was also fortunate enough to feature on Perth’s Channel 9’s Today Show last Monday morning, showcasing the wonderful arcade games designed by our students in Years 3 to 6 and what’s on offer in our Secondary School. Click here to see the Channel 9 live cross.
Thank you very much to all students who participated in any or all of these events and a very special thank you to the Science Department staff for putting in time and effort to make this week a massive success!
Book Week
Throughout Week 5 (Tuesday 20 – Friday 23 August) there will be a range of activities held each day on the Marcellin Campus in celebration of Book Week. Click here to see the full list of activities taking place.
Hands on learning was exemplified over the last fortnight, as our students participated in our STEM Festival, Science Week and Humanities Week activities. These are but a few examples of how our staff and students worked collaboratively to challenge one another. The STEM festival focused on sustainability, creativity and challenge. I extend my thanks to the students from Marcellin Campus who supported the learning experience for the Primary students. It is amazing to see what can be achieved by ‘thinking outside the box!’
Need to Know
Pupil Free Days
- All staff will be engaging in professional learning on Friday 16 August. This day is designed to support wellbeing strategies for our Staff. Staff wellbeing is named in our Strategic Plan as we recognise, that in order to support the wellbeing and learning of young people, teachers require tools and strategies needed to manage their own wellbeing.
- Monday 19 August is a pupil free day that recognises the contribution that teachers in Catholic Education make to the holistic development of young people. It is hoped that all members of our community return for the second half of Term 3 refreshed and rested.
New Uniform Options
After a period of consultation with the NPCC, staff and student groups, the following options will be available to students in 2020.
- Skorts with a blouse will be available to students who would prefer this over the summer dress (Primary) and skirt (Secondary). Skorts can be worn all year.
- Womens trousers for students in Years 7-12, are available for order and can also be worn all year.
- The boys in Primary are able to wear shorts during summer and winter.
These items will be available via the online store or from the uniform shop.
Thank you to Diana Potter, Uniform Shop Manager for her support and expertise as we seek to cater to the needs of all students and respond to feedback from our parent community.
Newman Parents – Monday 16 September
Newman Parents is honoured to host Paul Dillon at Newman College. Paul is the Director and founder of DARTA and he is passionate about ensuring that the community has access to accurate and up-to-date alcohol and other drug information.
RSVP to Jo Dunn, Marketing and Communications Officer by Wednesday 11 September jo.dunn@cewa.edu.au
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.
Our aim is to provide students with all the latest information that will help them to make decisions about future careers and life beyond school.Please contact Justin Farley, Pathways and Onsite Coordinator for any further queries Justin.Farley@cewa.edu.au | 9204 9457
Opportunities for Year 11 students in 2020
Students undertaking the General Pathway (non-ATAR) in Year 11 next year have two exciting opportunities open to them:
- Participate in work experience. This is an excellent program that allows students the opportunity to develop confidence, work skills, and industry connections. Click here to access the registration form. Please complete and return to Justin Farley, Pathways Coordinator by Friday 30 August 2019.
- Study a TAFE certificate. Students can complete a TAFE qualification in Years 11 and 12, including pre-apprenticeships. Click here to view the list of available qualifications. Please contact Alastair MacNeill, VET Coordinator by Friday 23 August alastair.macneill@cewa.edu.au
Opportunities for Year 12 students in 2020
Newman College is running an enabling course (bridging course) for non-ATAR students in partnership with Curtin University. The course allows students to achieve an indicative ATAR of 70 and enter some first-year courses at Curtin, Murdoch, and ECU. Click here for more details on the program. We are currently taking applications for the program in 2020. Students must be achieving C grades (ATAR) or B grades (General) in order to be eligible. Please contact Justin Farley, Pathways Coordinator for further information justin.farley@cewa.edu.au
Upcoming University Events
| EVENT | VENUE | DATE | LINK |
| TISC Information Evening | UWA | Tuesday 20 August | https://www.uwa.edu.au/study/events/tisc-information-evening-20-august-2019 |
| Psychology, Criminology, Counselling Evening | ECU Joondalup | Tuesday 20 August | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/arts-and-humanities/ |
| Medical and Health Science Information Evening | ECU Joondalup | Wednesday 21 August | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/medical-and-health-sciences |
| Law Information Evening | Curtin | Wednesday 28 August | https://news.curtin.edu.au/events/law-information-evening/ |
| Creative Arts and Communication Open Evening | Murdoch | Wednesday 28 August | https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/creative-industries-careers-evening-tickets-53945230637?aff=WEB |
| Teaching Information Evening | ECU Mount Lawley | Tuesday 3 September | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/teacher-education |
| Media, Arts, Design and Communications Evening | ECU Mount Lawley | Wednesday 4 September | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/arts-and-humanities |
| Admissions Information Evening | Notre Dame | Tuesday 10 September | https://www.notredame.edu.au/events-items/admissions-info-evening |
| Business and Law Information Evening | ECU Joondalup | Tuesday 10 September | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/business-and-law |
| Teaching Information Evening | ECU Joondalup | Wednesday 11 September | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/teacher-education |
| WAAPA Information Evening | WAAPA, Mount Lawley | Thursday 12 September | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/western-australian-academy-of-performing-arts |
| Cybersecurity Information Evening | ECU Joondalup | Wednesday 18 September | https://www.ecu.edu.au/future-students/events/science |
The 2019 Guild Athletics Carnival was held at the State Athletics Stadium on Thursday 8 August. We had an impressive number of students participating in all track and field events, which wasn’t damped by some cooler weather and drizzle at times. I wish to congratulate every student that challenged themselves to compete. The sense of pride and Guild spirit present on the day was obvious.
Chisholm Guild is to be congratulated for winning the overall Carnival. Additionally, we had an impressive four records broken on the day.
There were many people that contributed to making the Guild Athletics Carnival a successful event. Thank you to the Physical Education staff for their help in preparing and running the Carnival. Additionally, thank you to the staff who worked as officials, the student helpers, the Guild Coordinators, and the Year 12 Student Leaders. Also, thank you to Mrs Rolanda Geneff who volunteered her own time to provide assistance on the day.
Final Results
Carnival Shield
- Chisholm
- Camara
- Romero
- Marcellin
- MacKillop
- Brigid
- Thomas Moore
- Catherine
Guild Spirit Award: Romero
Records:
- Imogen Boss – Year 7 Girls Discus (26.68m) and Year 7 Girls Javelin (28.5m)
- Tania Barilla – Year 7 Girls High Jump (1.53m) and Year 7 Girls Shot Put (8.43m)
- Josh Baker – Year 12 Boys Long Jump (6.44m)
Age Champions (based on all events they competed in):
Year 7 Girls
1st Imogen Boss
2nd Tania Barilla
3rd Yelena Kelleher
Year 7 Boys
1st Caleb Moran
2nd Matthew Tomassone
3rd Leo Kriletich
Year 8 Girls
1st Meg McAullay
2nd Amanda Barilla
3rd Aaliyah Pavey
Year 8 Boys
1st Cooper Stevens
2nd Nicholas Worley
3rd Benjamin Lee
Year 9 Girls
1st Andrea Acuna
2nd Sydney Poor
3rd Monique Faraone / Emily Burgess
Year 9 Boys
1st Joshua Downes
2nd Luis Uribe Carrero
3rd Sharya Ferdinandusz
Year 10 Girls
1st Ellie Jones
2nd Amelia Johns
3rd Emilia Horn
Year 10 Boys
1st William McAullay
2nd Finn Tanham
3rd Ethan Penn
Year 11 Girls
1st Holli Johnson
2nd Hannah Inamac
3rd Jessica Sandford
Year 11 Boys
1st Daniel Esposito
2nd Jake Dwyer
3rd Daniel Pereira
Year 12 Girls
1st Lara Bosnjakovic
2nd Sarah Ranieri
3rd Taya Voysey
Year 12 Boys
1st Dylan Burgess
2nd Josh Baker
3rd Matthew Giumelli
Steven Gregory, Leader of Learning: Health & Physical Education
Guild Athletics Carnival
The 2019 Guild Athletics Carnival was held at the State Athletics Stadium on Thursday 8 August. We had an impressive number of students participating in all track and field events. Click here for the final results and more photos from the day.
ACC Athletics Squad Training
A reminder that squad training has commenced and takes place on the following days:
- Tuesdays 3.30pm – 4.30pm
- Thursdays 7.10am – 8.10am followed by breakfast
Download 2019 ACC Athletics Training Schedule
The A Division ACC Athletics Carnival will be held on Wednesday 18 September. Students in Years 7-10 will also compete in the annual NAS Athletics Meet on Tuesday 27 August. Both events will be at the State Athletics Centre (more information will be emailed closer to the competition dates). The NAS Athletics Meet gives students a further chance to press for Final Team selection.
We have Specialist Coaches in place for all track and field events. It is very important that the team commits to the program and each athlete gets to as many sessions as possible.
We are all looking forward to a very exciting and rewarding Athletics season!
Run Club
A reminder that all students from Lavalla and Marcellin are welcome to attend any of these sessions. It is recommended that students get to at least one session per week. Students will become more motivated if they get into a routine and feel themselves improving.
Sessions;
- Tuesdays 7.10am – 8.10am followed by breakfast
- Thursdays 7.10am – 8.10am followed by breakfast
This Semester there are 3 tiers to the program;
- Lavalla Group: Coach Lenny Hughes (Level 4 Accredited National Athletics Coach)
- Intermediate Group: Coach Torren Diletti (State Runner and 4 times ACC Cross Country Champion)
- High Performance Group: Coach Ben Chamberlain (National Runner and 4 times ACC Cross Country Champion)
Students are to meet on the steps outside the PE office on the Marcellin Campus in their PE/Running uniform. Students are to bring their own bowl and spoon for our team breakfasts afterwards. Hope to see as many runners on the track as possible!
Strength and Conditioning Program
Students in Years 7-12 are offered the opportunity to be a part of the Strength and Conditioning Program.
Sessions:
- Mondays and Wednesdays Lunchtimes (School Gym)
- Fridays 7.30am – 8.15am (at the new pool training facility) followed by breakfast
The focus of these sessions is to improve core strength, aerobic endurance and flexibility. This complements everything they might be doing at Club training and over time will improve speed, performance, confidence and help build resilience against injury.
Cricket Registrations
The WACA, in association with the College, are launching the new season with a promotional event at the College on Wednesday 21 August from 3.30pm. All students are invited to come along and join in a free fun training session with prizes, give aways and music. Students should express their interest by coming down to the PE office on each respective campus.
The Remar Blue Solidarity Camp will take place on 28 August – 3 September, 2019. The Blue Rowers will travel to Mullewa in Western Australia to undertake a “live in” experience in order to gain an understanding that the Solidarity Camp is based on the foundation of working in order to be the ‘hands and feet of Christ’. The camp aims to give Rowers an opportunity to experience ‘service’ in a prolonged context, whilst deepening their experience of communal living within a Christian context. The experience will encourage an exchange of ‘wisdom and skills’ between both the Caravel and the community it is serving and will embrace the Marist value of simplicity in all aspects. The camp provides the Caravel with a focus on practical projects and community participation and will challenge Rowers to reflect on their personal values and beliefs in relation to ministry and service. Central to the experience is morning and evening prayer, along with daily meetings to discuss how the Caravel is working to form a strong Christian community.
