Newman News Term 4 Week 2: From the Principal

Year 12 Graduation

Last evening, we celebrated the Graduation of our Year 12 cohort, commencing with a beautiful Thanksgiving Mass in the Champagnat Chapel, followed by hospitality in Founders Court and finishing with the Graduation Ceremony in the Marist Auditorium.

In farewelling our Class of 2019, I stressed the importance of living out our dreams and that those dreams are the sum of many opportunities, challenges, experiences and of course people who support and walk with us – with their own gifts and talents.

I spoke of the recent canonization of Blessed John Henry Newman, our College namesake, whose pursuit was to inspire people to search for truth and freedom of conscience, in a time of great division and inequality between social classes, men and women, countries and more specifically between Catholics and Protestants. Saint John Henry Newman’s invitation to us is to live our life to be one of humble service and affection to each other. If this can underpin our intent and be the foundation for lives, our future, no matter what challenges we face, will be assured.

Our Year 12 students have been a magnificent exemplar to our College of this inspiration ….they have stood up for what they believed to be right and just. Their efforts, demonstrated by application, resilience, discipline, shared values, friendships and self-belief have enhanced our Newman culture. They have exemplified the Marist notion of presence by the way they have valued relationships in myriad ways. They have demonstrated a willingness to get involved, ‘to have a go’, and have the flexibility to try new things.

I thank our Year 12 students for sharing their gifts and talents and for their leadership. Their time in this community, be it 6 or 14 years, has been valued and acknowledged.

We wish them all the best in the next stage of their journey. We will pray for them as they seek to make their mark in the world.

Please click here to access the Principal’s Graduation Speech.

In the words of Saint John Henry Newman:

Let us grow in wisdom and love
and act with courage to choose what is right.
May we always be open to change
and have the strength to accept
what is new and valuable.
Give us peace and happiness in what we do.
We ask this through Jesus, Your Son,
and Mary, our Mother.
Amen.

Parent Code of Conduct

An updated Parent Code of Conduct has been developed and I urge all families to access the document to view the contents.

Download Code of Conduct for Parents

Catholic Education WA School Cyclic Review

The CEWA School Cyclic Review process occurs once in a five year period and contributes to meeting the requirements of the System Agreement with the Western Australian Government as part of school re-registrations in Western Australia.

Newman College will be going through this process during Week 3 of this term.

The School Cyclic Review provides an opportunity for a panel of educators, external to the school, to affirm, challenge and report on the improvement journey at the school. The SCR also contributes to the school’s re-registration process. The SCR will focus on the school’s improvement journey over the previous three years and will identify and agree on some of the key school improvement strategies that will ensure the realisation of this focus in the next period of time (usually the next three-year period).

The SCR panel, which conducts the review, comprises a panel chair, the school’s School Improvement Advisor/Regional Officer, and either a peer principal or a CEWA consultant.

The SCR panel receives and reviews data collated by CEWA and the school including information relating to student results and progress, the demographics and finances of the school, strategic planning, cultural survey data, and other plans including the Evangelisation Plan and Aboriginal Education Plan, prior to a visit to the school. The Senior Leadership Team is completing a self-review statement which will form the basis for the school visit. During the school visit, the panel will meet with members of the school’s staff, students and community, following up on their review of the data.

The outcome of this Review will contribute to the College’s Strategic Plan 2020-2022.

Strategic Plan 2020-2022

The process of consultation for our Strategic Plan will commence in Week 4. We have an external consultant who will be conducting parent meetings and I warmly welcome all to contribute to this process on the following dates:

  • Thursday 7 November, 9.00am Champagnat Chapel Ministry Room
  • Thursday 7 November, 6.00pm Marist Auditorium, Studio
  • Friday 8 November, 9.00am Marian Campus Library

Newman Parents Consultative Committee (NPCC), Monday 28 October

I warmly welcome families to attend Monday’s NPCC meeting which will address matters such as the Capital Development Project, which is due to start shortly.

I trust everyone has settled back into school life following the Term 3 break and I wish all students success and fulfillment as they conclude their final weeks of the 2019 school year.

Newman News Term 4 Week 2: From the Leader of Wellbeing Early Childhood

Attending the Year 12 Graduation ceremony yesterday provided me with an opportunity to reflect on the schooling journeys that are walked by students. It was poignant to note that 30 of the 2019 Newman College Graduates commenced their educational journey in 2006 as Kindergarten students at the Marian Campus. The Graduation Ceremony is a small, although momentous point, in a long educational relationship. It provided many opportunities for reflection on how much has been gained by these students throughout their schooling years. I am privileged to walk daily with our Early Childhood students, in the knowledge that the foundations we establish now – socially, emotionally and academically, will provide the basis for a long and fruitful educational experience. Research indicates that a quality Early Childhood education is essential in the long-term development of cognitive abilities, and this is a point that is constantly considered by our Early Childhood team in preparing quality learning experiences for our students.

Recently, the Marian Campus staff embarked on a project of documenting their collective philosophies around Early Childhood education. Through much collaboration, we have finalised the Newman College Early Childhood Statement of Philosophy. This document is currently being printed and hard copies will be available to families in the coming weeks. I encourage you to engage with the statements made within this document, as it is an accurate reflection of the teaching and learning commitments that are delivered at the College to our youngest students.

Newman College Arts Festival

I extend my thanks to Ms Sarah Spencer for her tireless efforts in displaying the Marian Campus artwork at the Newman College Arts Festival last week. We have some incredibly talented artists in our midst, and it was fantastic to see Early Childhood students with their families, proudly showing off their artistic talents. Click here to see more photos from the week and for the full list of award recipients.

Kindy St John Ambulance Visit

Our Kindergarten students enjoyed a visit from St John Ambulance yesterday. This visit stemmed from the Kindy students’ interest in ambulances after a phonics lesson on the ‘p’ sound generated the word ‘Paramedic’. The students were able to gain a deeper understanding of the role of Paramedics in our community, as well as seeing what the inside of an ambulance looks like.

Marcellin Award

Congratulations to the following student who received a Marcellin Award in Week 2:

Will Burton, Year 1 Blue: For taking the time to check on a friend who was upset.

The Marcellin Award at Marian Campus is drawn from submitted nominations each Wednesday morning at Prayer Assembly.

Pre Kindergarten Parent Information Session

Families of 2020 Pre Kindergarten students are invited to attend a Pre Kindergarten Parent Information Session on Monday 4 November. The session will be held in the Marian Library from 9.15am – 10.15am and will include a light morning tea, courtesy of the Primary Social Committee.

Kindergarten Orientation

Children enrolled to attend Kindergarten in 2020 are invited to attend an Orientation Session on Monday 18 November. The Orientation will commence at 9.00am and conclude at 10.30am. Children will meet with their Kindergarten Teacher and engage in some fun classroom activities, whilst a Parent Information Session is conducted. Parents will be provided with all the relevant information to ensure a smooth transition into Kindergarten. More detailed information regarding the Orientation will be distributed in the coming weeks.

Primary Disco

Tickets are now on sale via trybooking for the Primary Disco. Click here to purchase your tickets.

To help the event run smoothly we need 15 parent volunteers per session to set up, encourage participation, outside duties & coordinate students for pick up. If you can help please email your name, contact number and session choice to Tamara at tamaraproctor@yahoo.com.au

Term 4 Swimming Lessons

A reminder that all students in Years 1 – 6 will take part in the College’s in-school Swimming Lessons Program in Term 4. Registration is compulsory as swimming lessons are part of the College’s Sporting Program. Click here for further information and to register your child online.

Crunch and Sip

Newman News Term 4 Week 2: From the Vice Principal

Class of 2019 Graduation

Last night, families, friends and staff gathered to celebrate Mass and Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2019. This is a very special occasion on the College Calendar and marks the end of a journey from Kindy to Year 12. The gifts and talents of the students were showcased, and their achievements were acknowledged with the presentation of Subject Awards and College Awards. Congratulations to each student and their family. We extend our thanks to teaching staff, from Primary through to Secondary, that have guided, walked with and supported each student over many years. Special thanks to Mrs Rebecca Bramanto, Leader of Wellbeing Year 12. Your commitment to this group of students has been unwavering and exemplifies the true mark of a teacher.

As Marist educators, we reflect on the words of Marcellin, ‘May their lives be an echo, of what you’ve taught them’. Our prayer for the graduates of 2019 is that their lives continue to be formed by the tenants of our Marist spirituality and each of you leave Newman College with the courage of your faith, a heart for compassion and a call for service.

Click here to see the full list of award recipients and more photos from the night.

Best in Course Recipient, Year 12 Literature

At the Year 12 Graduation students were acknowledged for their academic performance and achievement. We are pleased to announce that Elizabeth Adams and Catherine Jamieson are the co-recipients of the Year 12 Literature Award. This is a remarkable achievement by both students. Congratulations!

New and Returning Staff Term 4

We welcome the following staff to the College for Term 4:

Returning from Leave

  • Louise O’Mahony, Food Technology and Religious Education Teacher
  • Hannah Parker, Science Teacher
  • Mat Puljiz, Leader of Wellbeing, Health and Physical Education Teacher

New to the College

  • Narelle Cochrane, Teacher of English
  • Sara Stancati, Teacher of Italian
  • Therese Le-Sanders, Year 6 Blue Teacher

Newman College Arts Festival

The annual College Arts Festival featured works from across our Kindy – Year 12 student community. Congratulations to the Visual Arts Team led by Mrs Maree Grayden and the Design and Technology Team led by Mr David Nelson for their support of all students, the preparation of the pieces and their collaboration with this year’s Artists in Residence; Andy Quilty, Bradley Kickett and Rohin Kickett. The Opening Showcase and Parent Soiree were great celebrations of learning and Visual Art skills. Click here to see the full list of award winners and more photos from the week.

Newman Parents Consultative Committee Meeting – Monday 28 October, 7.00pm

We look forward to welcoming families to the final Newman Parents Consultative Committee (NPCC) meeting for 2019. The agenda will focus on the Capital Development Plan on Marcellin Campus, a reflection on the 2019 Annual School Improvement Plan and a look forward to 2020. The NPCC gives families an opportunity to share their feedback with the College Senior Leadership Team and be an active member of our parent community.

Uniform Shop

Skorts and blouses are available for female students from Years 1-6 as an alternative to the College summer dress. Students in Years 7-12 can also opt for the skort as an alternative to current skirt.

Skorts can be bought via the Online Store. Click here

Term 4 Opening Hours

  • Tuesdays            8.30am – 4.30pm
  • Wednesdays      12.00pm – 6.00pm
  • Friday                12.00pm – 4.30pm

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.

Year 12 Graduation Celebrations

Last night the Year 12 students, family, friends and staff gathered for the final time to celebrate the successes of the Year 12 cohort at Mass and Graduation.

The evening commenced with Mass, celebrated by Fr Isreal Quirit and Fr Vincent Conroy. In his Homily, Fr Isreal reflected on Matthew’s Gospel reading ‘You are the Salt of the Earth’ and ‘Your are the Light of the World’. Fr Isreal encouraged the students to continue to let their light shine before others and go out into the world and make a difference.

At the conclusion of Mass, guests gathered in the Founders Courtyard for refreshments prior to the commencement of the Graduation Ceremony.

The Graduation ceremony saw a number of musical acts, slideshows, and reflective addresses including;

  • Kyles Disciples: Stephen Loreck, Evan Thompson, Kyle Peou and Guy D’Aprile.
  • Newman Groove: Luka Moukine, Daniel O’Connor, Benjamin Miniello, Liam Street, Patrick Diamond and Rose Troon
  • Valedictory Address from 2019 College aptains Matt and Courtney

In his Principal’s Address, Mr Finneran reiterated that “the fundamental beliefs and assumptions in this community are that you all have the potential to succeed. Our Vision for Learning Shine through discovery – let you light shine asks this of us — that we can be excellent; we have license to let our light shine.”

Download 2019 Principal’s Graduation Speech

The evening concluded with recognising the outstanding academic, sporting and community achievements and contributions of the Year 12 cohort. The following students received the College’s highest awards:

  • Jessica Baggetta, recipient of the Class of 1977 Award. The highest achieving student engaged in Vocational and Educational Training opportunities.
  • Patrick Diamond received the JJ Clune Award. Presented to the Year 12 student who is acknowledged as the most outstanding graduate of the year.
  • Michael Adamos who was announced as this year’s Br Cletus Read Proxime Accessit recipient.
  • The Monsignor Kennedy Award for Dux of the College was awarded to Alexandra Cavanagh.

A full list of award winners can be found here:

Download Year 12 Award Recipients

Congratulations to our Year 12’s. We are delighted to officially welcome you all as our newest Alumni; The Class of 2019.

Newman News Term 4 Week 2: From the Deputy Principal Wellbeing Secondary

Year 10 Camp

The Year 10 students had a wonderful first week back of Term 4 by completing a week of camping during their Adventure Camp. The aim of the program was to heighten awareness and respect for self and others as well as promote increased self-esteem and foster independence whilst increasing group cohesion. Click here to read more and see more photos from the camp.

Year 12 WACE Exams

Student WACE timetables are available to download from Personalised written examinations timetable and Personalised practical examination timetable from the student portal. Click here

The Personalised written examinations timetable will contain the date, time and examination centre for the student’s written examinations. The Personalised practical examination timetable will contain the date, time, venue and location of the student’s practical examination.

Click here to access the full WACE timetable.

Year 11 Exams

Year 11 Semester Two exams for ATAR classes will run from Monday 11 November – Friday 22 November. Students have already been given a copy of the Semester Two exam timetable, however it is also available to download here.

Download 2019 Year 11 Semester 2 Exam Timetable

While classes do not run at this time, students are welcome to organise times to meet with their teachers if they require further assistance.

Exam Feedback Days for ATAR students will be held on Monday 25 November and Tuesday 26 November. It is compulsory for ATAR students to attend their normal classes on these days to go through their marked exams.

Students on a General Pathway will finish school on Friday 8 November and will not be required to attend school during the exam period unless they need to finish or resubmit work. You will be notified if your child is required to attend school during this time by the end of Week 4.

Examination Rules and Procedures

  • Dress Code Examinations are a school activity; therefore, candidates are expected to wear school uniform during examination periods.
  • Examination Timetables Confirm your exam room, starting time and length of exam on the schedule sent.
  • Equipment Students are to bring standard items such as pens, pencils, sharpener, correction tape, eraser, ruler, highlighter in a clear plastic pencil case.
  • Special items such as: notes, templates etc are to be supplied by the candidate as per instructions of the examination.
  • Calculators must be of an approved type. Calculator cases and instruction booklets are not allowed in the examination room.
  • In the Examination Room Students will NOT communicate in any manner with other students, once the supervisor has allowed them into the room. Student papers may be cancelled if collusion or other interaction between students is suspected. During the exam there is no borrowing of equipment from another candidate.
  • Students must divest themselves of any study materials directly or indirectly related to the specific examination prior to the start of that exam. Materials may be handed to the supervisor who will keep them during the examination. Student papers may be cancelled if use of related study material is suspected.
  • Students must supply all hardware required for a particular examination and be certain it is in good working order.
  • Students can not write or have writing implements in their hands during the allocated “Reading Time”.
  • Students will not leave the examination room for any reason prior to conclusion of the time allocated to the examination.
  • If required, the supervisor’s attention may be obtained by raising your hand and waiting for the supervisor to reach you.
  • Mobile phones and smart watches may not be taken into the examination room.
  • Water bottles must be clear plastic bottles with no labels. Eating is not allowed in the examination room.

Absence from Examination Venue – The only acceptable reason for absence from an examination is illness which must be confirmed by a doctor’s certificate. Mrs Carla Pastorelli must be contacted by you or your parent on the day of your illness and your Medical Certificate should be presented to her on your return to school.

Counselling & Wellbeing Team

This term, the Counselling Team will be providing Healthy Headspace tips to assist you in supporting your child’s overall wellbeing. This will include articles over the course of this term on sleep routines, nutrition and physical activity, self-care strategies and what to look out for if your child may be struggling. We will start by looking at one the ‘wellbeing basics’ – sleep.

Healthy Headspace: Part 1 – Sleep

Sleep plays a vital role for teens in maintaining physical and mental health. Lack of sleep can negatively impact behaviour and emotional regulation, as well as the ability to focus, do well at school and get along with others. Being tired can also contribute to feelings of anxiety and low mood. Most teenagers need between 8 and 10 hours of sleep per night. Promotion of the below habits can help your child to maintain a healthy sleep routine and reduce the likelihood of sleep difficulties.

If your teen is kept awake at night by worries, try talking about them together during the day. Encourage your child to write down anxious thoughts each day, and to try and come up with possible solutions. Mindfulness exercises before bed may be helpful in calming anxieties or an active mind. If your child experiences ongoing issues with getting to sleep, staying asleep or getting out of bed in the morning, which is affecting his/her wellbeing, schoolwork or relationships, support can be sought through your GP.

References:

https://raisingchildren.net.au/teens/healthy-lifestyle/sleep/sleep-teens

https://raisingchildren.net.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0031/35869/Better-sleep-for-teenagers-PIP.pdf