Newman News Term 3 Week 8: From the Vice Principal

We learn best when we are immersed in learning experiences that are active, engaged, meaningful and interactive. This could be through experiential learning, small team projects, exploration of current events, use of online and digital sources of information and excursions. This means that learning can happen everywhere, not just the classroom.

Last week our Graduating Class of 2020 participated in an Industry Breakfast which celebrated students engaging with leaders in their respective field to learn more about their vocation and career pathways. I extend my thanks to the professionals who attended the morning, Mr Thomas Wagner, Director of Engagement and Operations, Mrs Carla Pastorelli, Leader of Wellbeing Year 12, and Mr Justin Farley Pathways Coordinator for their initiative of this wonderful event.
Industry Breakfast Industry Breakfast Industry Breakfast Industry Breakfast

R U OK? Day

On Thursday 10 September we acknowledged R U OK? Day which marks the national day of action when we are reminded that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” if someone in your world is struggling with life’s ups and downs.

If you feel like something’s not quite the same with someone you know – there’s something going on in their life or you notice a change in what they’re saying or doing – trust that gut instinct and take the time to ask them “Are you OK?” If someone says they’re not OK, make time to listen, encourage action and check in. That conversation could change, or even save their life.

Staff and students wore yellow accessories to mark the occasion. Classroom teachers guided students through the importance of checking in with each other and our Wellbeing Captains organised games and activities on the Marcellin Campus to demonstrate the importance of coming together.

Click here for more information regarding this important day of action.

Awards Ceremonies 2020

Mindful of the current restrictions in place, the College is preparing and planning the best way to host respective Awards Ceremonies at the end of the year to maximise parent engagement, acknowledge the achievements of students and celebrate the 2020 school year.

Please save the following dates:

  • Year 12 Graduation – Thursday 22 October, Optus Stadium
  • Years 7-9 Awards Ceremony – Thursday 26 November, Marist Auditorium
  • Years 10-11 Awards Ceremony – Thursday 26 November, Marist Auditorium
  • Year 6 Celebration Assembly and Lavalla Awards – Tuesday 8 December, Marist Auditorium

Details of each event will be shared closer to the date

Covid-19 Update

With the delay of moving to Phase 5 restrictions by the State Government, the following protocols will remain in place until 24 October.

Assemblies and College Community Events
Whole school and campus assemblies are limited to ensure student numbers don’t exceed the 2m2 rule. Adult visitors and staff should maintain physical distancing where possible. The College will continue to enforce the 2m2 rule per adult for indoor spaces. All official visitors as per College guidelines are required to sign in.

Student Attendance
Student attendance at school is compulsory, except for those who are recognised as medically vulnerable or who have medically vulnerable family members. If you are concerned about your own family situation, please contact Lisa Fogliani, Vice Principal for additional clarity and advice.

Physical Distancing
The Government has stressed the importance of Western Australians to continue to keep up physical distancing where possible and to maintain good personal hygiene to better protect ourselves and the general health of the community.In addition, students will be continually and explicitly taught the importance of handwashing, physical distancing and observing personal hygiene to a high standard (as developmentally appropriate).

If Students are Unwell 
We ask that students who are presenting with a fever or flu like symptoms stay at home until their symptoms are clear.  It is the responsibility of all families to ensure they support the wider College community.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

The College is committed to providing an environment that is safe for all children. We actively work towards and promote the principles of the Catholic Education’s Child Safe Framework. The framework upholds a child safe culture, healthy and respectful relationships, and extended guardianship in school communities, based on the latest research and recognised best practices. At times, we rely on partnership with parents to ensure all members of our community are safe, supported and cared for. Thank you to community members that have positively and openly supported this intent. If you are concerned about a child, please communicate with Campus Leaders, Leaders of Wellbeing or any member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Code of Conduct

A reminder to all families that the Code of Conduct can be accessed via the College website. The Code is mandated by Catholic Education Western Australia and the application of the code extends to all staff, students, parents, guardians, caregivers and volunteers.

The Code seeks to value the dignity of every person, foster positive relationships, ensuring confidentiality and accountability and supports professional boundaries.  Events held during school hours AND outside of school hours that are associated with the College are also supported by the Code of Conduct.  Postings on social media platforms that identify the College or College events are also bound by the Code of Conduct.

Any perceived breaches of the Code can be discussed with any member of the Senior Leadership Team.  We thank you in advance for your understanding and support of how we strive to partner positively with one another.