We have now finalised all Term Dates for 2027 and we are pleased to provide these to families for their planning.To view click here.
Raising Digital Citizens Parent and Community Learning Suite
Throughout 2025, Newman College sought feedback from parents regarding social media, technology use and student wellbeing. The College received approximately 600 responses. The feedback revealed a strong desire for greater support, practical guidance and a more consistent approach between home and school.
Feedback from parents identified ten key areas of concern:
Stronger school restrictions and enforcement
A desire for a unified community approach
Education for students, parents and the wider community
Screen time, health impacts and brain development
Devices at home and school, including school-issued laptops and iPads
Monitoring tools and parental controls
Alternatives to replace device time
Social media platforms, trends and emerging risks
Curriculum and learning-platform concerns
Student wellbeing, bullying and online safety
The Raising Digital Citizens suite has been designed to directly address each of these areas.
As a College community, we recognise that supporting young people in the digital age cannot be achieved by schools or families alone. It requires a genuine partnership built on shared expectations, common language and collective responsibility. The most successful outcomes occur when students receive consistent messages from the important adults in their lives and when families feel equipped to guide, monitor and support their children with confidence.
The Raising Digital Citizens Parent and Community Learning Suite has been developed in response to this feedback. The series aims to provide parents and carers with contemporary knowledge, practical tools and evidence-informed strategies to help young people navigate the opportunities and challenges of an increasingly connected world. Through expert presenters, College leaders and community partnerships, we hope to strengthen our collective capacity to raise young people who are responsible, respectful, resilient and safe digital citizens. Further information and registration is availablehere.
Traffic Warden – Mantua Crescent/ Tuscany Way
The Traffic Warden who works at the Children’s Crossing on Tuscany Way, near Mantua Crescent is unable to work between Monday 8 June, and Thursday 2 July (remainder of the term). The crossing unit have been unable to find relief staff to cover this absence.
If your child using this crossing, please remind them to take care, and if you use this road in the mornings and afternoons please be vigilant and allow students to cross
Champagnat Day is one of the most significant celebrations in the life of our College. While the Mass, fete, and guild activities provide opportunities for fun and friendly competition, they also remind us of something much deeper: our identity as a Marist community.
At the heart of the Marist tradition is the characteristic of Family Spirit. St Marcellin Champagnat believed that schools should be places where people feel welcomed, valued, supported, and known. He wanted young people to experience a sense of belonging and community that reflected the love and care found within a family.
Each year, Champagnat Day brings this vision to life. Students from Kindergarten to Year 12, staff, parents, and students come together to celebrate not only the legacy of Marcellin, but also the relationships that make Newman College so special. Whether gathered in prayer at Mass, supporting one another at the fete, or cheering on guilds during the ‘rhythm of the guilds’ competition, we are reminded that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.
As we celebrate the life and vision of St Marcellin Champagnat, may we continue to foster Family Spirit in our College, ensuring that Newman remains a place where every person feels at home, known by name, and encouraged to grow into the person God calls them to be.
Br Terry update
Last week, we shared with families on our social media an invitation to pray for Br. Terry, former principal of Newman College and Marist Brother here in our community. It was so beautiful to see so many well wishes for Br Terry, especially from past students, staff, and families.
This week, Br Paul and I visited Terry to share with him some of the comments and memories that people had shared, which lifted his spirits greatly. At this time, we invite families to continue to keep Br Terry in their thoughts and prayers. It certainly means a lot to Terry and his family to know that he is in everyone’s prayers and that the community are with him in spirit.
On Friday 19 June, Newman College came together to celebrate Champagnat Day, honouring the Feast of St Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the Marist Brothers and of Marist Education. In a very special first, this year we celebrated as one K–12 community — and what a joy it was to see our whole College, from our youngest Lavalla students to our Year 12’s, sharing in the day side by side.
The morning began with Mass, a moment of reflection and thanksgiving that set the tone for everything that followed. We then gathered for our annual Champagnat Awards, recognising the staff and students who so genuinely live out our Marist characteristics through their words, actions, leadership, service and care for others.
From there, the energy lifted as we moved into the Champagnat Day Fete. The grounds came alive with colour, music and the unmistakable buzz of a community enjoying itself. Our guilds ran a wonderful array of stalls — from Waffle Bars, Sausage Sizzles, Pulled Pork Rolls, Fairy Floss and Krispy Kremes to Dunk Tanks, Mini Golf, Race-the-Teacher challenges and FIFA e-sports. There was something for everyone, and the creativity and effort our students showed in all the stalls.
Importantly, the Fete raised valuable funds for Australian Marist Solidarity (AMS) and several local agencies, allowing our celebration to extend care and support well beyond our own community.
The afternoon drew to a close with our inaugural Rhythm of Guilds competition, a spirited dance-off contest that brought out an incredible display of guild pride, talent and good-natured rivalry. It was the perfect way to round out a day defined by togetherness and joy. Our new guild mascots and mottos were also revealed. Click here to view.
To our students, staff and families — thank you. Your enthusiasm, generosity and hard work made our first K-12 Champagnat Day as one community a day we won’t soon forget. We look forward to building on this wonderful new tradition for years to come.
Photo Day
Photo Day is fast approaching, and we ask for your support in helping our students present at their best.
Upcoming photo days are:
Monday 22 June — Years 10–11 and a range of Years 7–12 Sports & Music Photo Day
Tuesday 23 June — Year 12 and a range of Years 7–12 Sports & Music Photo Day
Individual schedules will be posted to Teams for students in the week leading up to Photo Day, so please encourage your child to check Teams for their specific timing.
In the lead-up, PCG teachers will be following up with students this week regarding uniform and grooming. Students may be asked to have a haircut beforehand or to address an issue with their uniform or grooming so that everyone is presentation-ready on the day. We would be very grateful for your support at home in making sure these expectations are met. Please note that students who are not meeting the College’s uniform and grooming expectations on the day may not be permitted to participate in certain photos.
Ordering your photos
Approximately two weeks before Photo Day, each student will be given an order form to take home. To order online, scan the QR code on the order form or visit https://online.fotoworks.com.au/ordering/access and enter your child’s 2026 Access Key, printed on the order envelope (each child has a unique key). The photography team will bring a personalised barcode on the day to identify each student. The last day to order online is 30 June 2026.
Thank you for your support in helping our students look their best for Photo Day.
Bus Travel and SmartRiders
The College has been made aware that a significant number of students are travelling on school buses without a SmartRider, and that many students who do have a SmartRider are not tagging on and off for their trips.
If your child has a valid Student SmartRider, they can travel free on Transperth Monday to Friday during the school year, provided they tag on and tag off for every trip. Tagging on and off is essential — it helps Transperth understand how many students are using the service, so enough buses can be scheduled to get everyone to and from school safely and on time.
Please that students travelling without a SmartRider will be expected to pay the fare. In addition, an infringement may also be issued.
Please remind your child of the following important rules for bus travel:
Tag on at the front door only — tagging on at a centre or rear door will result in a default fare being charged
Tag off at any door when exiting
Replacement SmartRiders
If your child has lost or damaged their SmartRider, a replacement can be ordered through Student Reception at a cost of $5.00, payable at the time of ordering. Payment can be made by EFTPOS at Student Reception or by card over the phone. Please note that the College no longer accepts cash payments.
We appreciate your support in ensuring your child travels safely and in accordance with Transperth requirements.
State Sporting Representation
Congratulations to the following student for the state achievement in their sport:
Brody Warner (Year 9) who competed in the recent National Junior League Baseball Championship where his team, the Eastern Phantoms, won the tournament and will represent the Australia region at the Junior League World Series in Michigan.
Georgia De Boer (Year 7) and Audrey Barnard (Year 6) has been selected to represent Western Australia in the 2026 AFL 12s Girls Championship. This team will be competing at the School Sport Australia National championships in Canberra, ACT from 2nd August – 9th August 2026.
Siena O’Rourke (Year 12) has been selected in the WA Gymnastics Women’s Artistic Gymnastics State Team heading to Sydney for the 2026 Australian Gymnastics Championships.
State and National Representation is an honour and an important stepping stone in an athlete’s journey. We commend these students for their dedication and commitment to their sport. If your child has achieved state or national recognition in their sport or extra-curricular activity, we would love to hear about it so we can celebrate their success. Please let us know the details by filling out this form. https://forms.office.com/r/qaCxCYLNX6
Mrs Anna Scanlan
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL SECONDARY
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 10
Year 11 prerequisites for 2027
Year 10 students and families have now received the prerequisites for Year 11 subjects at Newman College for 2027. This is to allow for goal-setting in time for the Semester 1 Year 10 report. Prerequisites for Year 11 2027 can found at:
In Term 2, all Year 10 students will commence their subject selection research, in preparation for Year 11 2027.
Future Doctors Program
The Future Doctors Program is a 4-day program that provides young people with an opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
Perth sessions are available in July 2026 and January 2027.
Get a taste of the Bachelor of Architecture and find out what it’s like to study, work, and create amazing built environments as an architect!
When: Monday, 6 July 2026 – Friday, 10 July 2026
Time: 09:00 — 12:00
Where: The University of Notre Dame Australia, 4 High St, Fremantle WA
Cost: $350. All materials and refreshments provided.
You’ll meet professional architects, create architecture models and drawings, explore the ways people and nature can thrive together, and photograph architecture around the vibrant City of Fremantle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about what makes architecture such a rewarding career and hear from current students about life here at Notre Dame.
Are you interested in studying Law at University but not likely to meet the ATAR requirements? In that case, you can apply for Murdoch University’s Law Start Program (once you finish Year 12). All you need is a B grade in one ATAR subject that has a strong focus on communication and essay writing (eg English, Literature, History, Politics & Law). More information at: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/enabling-pathways/law-start
Career conversations for parents
The WA Government offers a suite of free resources to assist parents and guardians with starting career-related conversations. Families can access them here:
https://www.jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/parents
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 11
Selecting Year 12 subjects
Please see below a summary of the rules for selecting subjects in Year 12, 2027:
Students who select a Year 12 ATAR subject must have achieved at least 50% in that ATAR subject in Year 11.
Students who select a new Year 12 ATAR subject in Year 12 (not having studied that subject in Year 11) will be required to seek permission.
Students with a predicted ATAR of less than 70 will not be permitted to continue the ATAR Pathway in Year 12.
Students who have an ‘E’ grade in a Year 11 General subject will not be permitted to re-select that General subject in Year 12.
For students wishing to enter the UniReady or UniPathway Programs in Year 12:
If coming from the ATAR Pathway in Year 11, students must have passed at least 4 Year 11 subjects.
If coming from the General Pathway in Year 11, students must have a ‘B’ grade or better in at least 4 Year 11 subjects, including English.
Architects of the future
Get a taste of the Bachelor of Architecture and find out what it’s like to study, work, and create amazing built environments as an architect!
When: Monday, 6 July 2026 – Friday, 10 July 2026
Time: 09:00 — 12:00
Where: The University of Notre Dame Australia, 4 High St, Fremantle WA
Cost: $350. All materials and refreshments provided.
You’ll meet professional architects, create architecture models and drawings, explore the ways people and nature can thrive together, and photograph architecture around the vibrant City of Fremantle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about what makes architecture such a rewarding career and hear from current students about life here at Notre Dame.
The Future Doctors Program is a 4-day program that provides young people with an opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
Perth sessions are available in July 2026 and January 2027.
Are you interested in studying Law at University but not likely to meet the ATAR requirements? In that case, you can apply for Murdoch University’s Law Start Program (once you finish Year 12). All you need is a B grade in one ATAR subject that has a strong focus on communication and essay writing (eg English, Literature, History, Politics & Law). More information at: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/enabling-pathways/law-start
Alternatives to University
Did you know that University is not the only place you can obtain a degree? There are several alternatives here in Perth:
SAE: Offers degrees in things like Animation, Audio, Game Development, Creative Industries. https://sae.edu.au/
ACAP: Offers degrees in things like Psychology, Criminology, Social Work. https://www.acap.edu.au/
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
Key dates for University and TAFE applications for 2027
For those students applying for University for 2027, you will be provided with instructions and further information about applying once you return from your exam break.
Year 12s are welcome to come and collect (and keep) any of the University handbooks that are on the table near my office. These can be very helpful in making your choice.
For those students applying for TAFE for 2027, applications will open in September of this year and close in November of this year. You will be advised of this at the time.
Alternatives to University
Did you know that University is not the only place you can obtain a degree? There are several alternatives here in Perth:
SAE: Offers degrees in things like Animation, Audio, Game Development, Creative Industries. https://sae.edu.au/
ACAP: Offers degrees in things like Psychology, Criminology, Social Work. https://www.acap.edu.au/
Applying for Medicine or Dentistry or Veterinary Science for 2027
All students who wish to enrol in Medicine or Dentistry in 2027 (including Assured Pathway at UWA and Notre Dame) will need to sit the University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) this year.
Please see below for some important dates:
3 March 2026: UCAT bookings open
15 May 2026: Deadline to book your UCAT for 2026
12 June 2026: Deadline if you need to cancel your UCAT booking
1 July 2026: UCAT testing begins
5 August 2026: Last test date
September 2026: Results available
You can check https://www.ucat.edu.au/ for further information, practice tests, and tips to succeed. It is recommended to book a UCAT as early as possible as demand for testing places is high.
UWA The official handbook for entry to Medicine at UWA can be found at this link and Dentistry at this link. Please note that Medicine and Dentistry at UWA are postgraduate courses and require completion of a relevant Bachelor degree prior to entry.
Curtin Curtin University offers the only direct entry medical program in Western Australia. In 2025, the cutoff ATAR for this course was 93.
Applying for Notre Dame UniPath for Semester 2, 2026
Notre Dame runs an entry program called UniPath. Completing UniPath will give you an ATAR of 70, which can then be used for entry to University courses at Curtin / ECU / Murdoch / Notre Dame. Students doing UniPath attend Notre Dame’s Fremantle campus one day per week for 12 weeks.
Get a taste of the Bachelor of Architecture and find out what it’s like to study, work, and create amazing built environments as an architect!
When: Monday, 6 July 2026 – Friday, 10 July 2026
Time: 09:00 — 12:00
Where: The University of Notre Dame Australia, 4 High St, Fremantle WA
Cost: $350. All materials and refreshments provided.
You’ll meet professional architects, create architecture models and drawings, explore the ways people and nature can thrive together, and photograph architecture around the vibrant City of Fremantle. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about what makes architecture such a rewarding career and hear from current students about life here at Notre Dame.
The Future Doctors Program is a 4-day program that provides young people with an opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
Perth sessions are available in July 2026 and January 2027.
Are you interested in studying Law at University but not likely to meet the ATAR requirements? In that case, you can apply for Murdoch University’s Law Start Program. All you need is a B grade in one ATAR subject that has a strong focus on communication and essay writing (eg English, Literature, History, Politics & Law). More information at: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/study/pathways-to-uni/enabling-pathways/law-start
University information
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
Year 1 Excursion to Kings Park: STEM in the Outdoors
Our Year 1 students recently participated in an engaging excursion to Kings Park, where learning was brought to life through hands on STEM experiences in the natural environment. A highlight of the day was the investigation of the Kooyar Kep Wetland, known as Frog Water, where students explored the plants and animals that live in this unique ecosystem. Through observation and inquiry, they developed an understanding of how living things depend on their environment.
Students were guided to look closely at the wetland habitat, identifying features such as water plants, insect life and evidence of animal activity. They discussed how these living things rely on water, shelter and food sources to survive, linking their observations to classroom learning. The Kings Park storytelling session supported this experience, sharing a meaningful narrative about friendship and cooperation in nature, and helping students see how scientific understanding can connect to real life values and relationships.
During the STEM investigations, students explored the concept of sinking and floating through hands on experimentation. They made predictions, tested different natural materials and discussed their observations using simple scientific language. Working in small teams, students designed, built and tested their own boats using items such as sticks, bark and leaves. They were encouraged to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved, fostering critical thinking and collaboration skills while building confidence in problem solving.
Year 1R Assembly
Congratulations to Year 1R for their wonderful assembly presentation. Students confidently shared their learning about animals, including identifying key features such as body coverings, habitats and movement. They explained the differences between groups of animals, including mammals, reptiles and birds, demonstrating a strong understanding of the topic. Each student showed great courage in speaking in front of an audience, and their enthusiasm and pride in their learning were evident throughout the presentation. We were very proud of the way they supported one another and presented as a team.
Winter Music Night
Winter Music Night was a great success and a celebration of the rich musical talent within our school community. The evening began with an outstanding and energetic opening performance from our Lavalla Rock Band, which set a vibrant tone for the night. Our soloists then took to the stage, performing with confidence and showcasing their developing skills and musical expression.
The choirs and ensembles demonstrated excellent teamwork, listening skills and dedication, with each group delivering polished performances that reflected many hours of practice. The variety of performances ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy. It was wonderful to see students supporting one another and taking pride in sharing their talents.
Coffee Connect
Our Primary Leadership Team enjoyed a welcoming morning connecting with class parent representatives at Coffee Connect. This time together allowed for open conversation, the sharing of ideas and feedback, and continued strengthening of the partnership between school and families. The relaxed setting supported meaningful connections and encouraged a sense of community across year levels. We hope the coffee van was a valued addition and that families enjoyed the opportunity to gather and connect.
LifeLink Launch
Four of our Year 6 student leaders attended the LifeLink Launch at Corpus Christi and represented the College with pride, demonstrating maturity, respect and enthusiasm. During the event, they learned more about the important work of the agencies supported by LifeLink and the impact these organisations have within the wider community.
As part of their involvement, the students have been working collaboratively to create a video that highlights the work of these agencies and raises awareness of their mission. This process has developed their communication, teamwork and leadership skills, while also deepening their understanding of social responsibility. We look forward to viewing their final submission and celebrating their efforts.
State Sporting Representation
Congratulations to the following student for the state achievement in their sport:
Audrey Barnard (Year 6) who has been selected to represent Western Australia in the 2026 AFL 12s Girls Championship. This team will be competing at the School Sport Australia National Championships in Canberra, ACT from 2nd August – 9th August 2026.
State and National Representation is an honour and an important stepping stone in an athlete’s journey. We commend these students for their dedication and commitment to their sport. If your child has achieved state or national recognition in their sport or extra-curricular activity, we would love to hear about it so we can celebrate their success. Please let us know the details by filling out this form. https://forms.office.com/r/qaCxCYLNX6
Mrs Laura Christopher
HEAD OF PRIMARY
School Reporting
Reports are one of the most important ways we communicate with parents about each child’s learning journey. Each semester, parents receive a formal school report that explains how each student is achieving against the Western Australian Curriculum standards. We understand that the language, grades, and structure of these reports can sometimes feel unfamiliar or raise questions, so we wanted to help make sense of everything.
In Western Australia, all government and non-government primary schools are required to follow the mandates of the School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA). SCSA is an independent statutory authority that oversees curriculum, assessment, and reporting for all WA students from Kindergarten to Year 12. At the heart of our reporting is the concept of an Achievement Standard. For each learning area and each year level, SCSA defines what a student is expected to know and be able to do by the end of that year. This is called the Achievement Standard, and it forms the benchmark against which work is assessed.
Importantly, a grade of C represents achievement at the standard — it means the student has met the expected level of knowledge and skill for their year. This is a genuine and significant achievement. As students move through the year levels, the Achievement Standards increase in complexity and sophistication, which means the bar is continually raised, and that is entirely by design. A grade of C is a positive outcome. It means your child is learning and achieving exactly what is expected of them at their year level. A grade changing between semesters does not necessarily mean your child has gone backwards it may simply reflect that the Achievement Standard has become more demanding as your child has moved through the year or into the next grade.
Teachers use multiple forms of evidence to arrive at a grade. This might include:
Written tasks and projects
Observations and practical demonstrations
Tests and quizzes
Oral responses and class contributions
Creative works
Assessment is ongoing throughout the semester. Teachers make professional judgements by comparing a student’s body of work against the SCSA Achievement Standard for their year level. This process, known as standards-referenced assessment, means grades reflect what a student can actually do — not how they compare to their classmates. To ensure consistency and fairness, teachers also engage in moderation — a process where teachers across the school review student work together and check that grades are being applied consistently against the same standard.
In reading your child’s report, it is important to remember that it reflects a comprehensive picture of their learning over time, not a single assessment or moment. Each grade represents careful consideration of the evidence available, aligned to the expectations for that stage of schooling. If you have any questions about your child’s progress or would like further clarification, we encourage open communication with your child’s teacher. Working together, we can continue to support each student’s growth and ensure a positive and successful learning journey.
Movement- Good for the Body and Nourishment for the Spirit
As we reflect on recent events of student celebration with highlights of the Primary Musical – Wizard of Oz, World Scholars Cup, ACC Inclusive Fun Run – Sue Bigelow Spirit Shield, Junior ACC and ACC Cross Country Carnivals and the Marist Netball Carnival, Bendigo, it just highlights the incredible value of movement, expression, competition and creativity in a young person’s life.
No child or adult commits to opportunities like those listed without facing the important concept of ‘stretch’ – the notion of going safely beyond the margin of ‘the known’ and ‘the comfortable’, to the experience of a little discomfort and uncertainty of outcome, but the reward of further personal growth, accomplishment and celebration.
Advocates of positive psychology discuss the three happinesses in some sense. Psychologist, Martin Selegman identifies the Pleasant Life, the Good Life and the Meaningful Life. Each are important and are satisfied in various ways. The Pleasant Life appreciates interaction and appreciation of nature. The Good Life challenges us to recognise we all have unique virtues and strengths we can lean into to nurture self-esteem and satisfaction for our unique self. The Meaningful Life brings depth of fulfilment when we use our strengths and virtues for a greater purpose beyond ourselves – for others.
Crafting away as a part of the cast and crew of The Wizard of Oz, collaborating and deep thinking in the moment of the World Scholars Cup, running as a part of the Cross Country teams or playing in the highly competitive Marist Netball Carnival are examples of being a part of a bigger thing and contributing to a deep sense of fulfilment for the group, as much as for the personal challenge, stretch and celebration on offer. The old saying applies here: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.
We are extremely proud of our Newman students who compete, participate and play in the Co-Curricular Program. A huge congratulations to the cast, crew and staff of The Wizard of Oz, the students and mentor staff in The World Scholars Cup, the runners and coaches of the Inclusive (Education Support), JACC and ACC Cross Country Carnivals and the players and coaches of the Marist Netball team. Our Netball Team reached a height the College has not had in this Carnival for many years; we were Runner-Up in the Challenger Shield to Red Bend College, Forbes.
I encourage you to read further into this edition of the Newsletter to hear about the whole College recognition of National Reconciliation Week, Game Changers Retreat and the National Simultaneous Storytime event in Lavalla. Wishing you all a wonderful fortnight ahead.
