Secondary Update – Term 2 Week 7

Jenni Vile on 05/06/2026

National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week — A Reflection

On Tuesday 26 May, Newman College came together as a whole school — from Pre-Primary to Year 11 — to mark National Sorry Day and the beginning of National Reconciliation Week.

Our Primary students led the College in an assembly, bringing meaning and voice to this important occasion. Students across all year levels reflected on the significance of reconciliation — what it means, why it matters, and what it looks like in our everyday lives and relationships.

Following the assembly, students worked alongside their buddies to create handprints decorated with words and phrases of reconciliation, coming together to form a whole-College display — a symbol of our shared commitment to a more just and equitable future.

To mark the occasion further, the College also planted a number of native hibiscus plants along the courts. The native hibiscus holds deep significance — it is the official flower of National Sorry Day, for its resilience and its ability to thrive across the harshest Australian landscapes. It stands as a powerful metaphor for the enduring spirit, survival, and strength of the Stolen Generations and their families.

Our students and staff came together with openness and respect. Days like these remind us of who we are as a community and of the ongoing journey we are all part of.

Upcoming Events

Year 12 Retreat

Congratulations to our Year 12 students, who have now completed their exams! As they look ahead to the final months of their senior schooling, the Year 12 Retreat, taking place in Week 8, offers a wonderful opportunity to pause, relax, and reset.

The Retreat is a significant part of the school journey and is integral to our Vision for Mission: to form “Good Christians and Good Citizens”. It is an important time of quiet reflection away from the usual school routines, where students can consider their self-esteem, relationships, and responsibilities, while building a stronger sense of community within the cohort.

We wish all our Year 12 students the very best as they take this time to refresh and prepare for the journey ahead.

Photo Day

Photo Day is fast approaching, and we ask for your support in helping our students present at their best.

Photos will be taken across three days:

  • Monday 15 June — Years 7–9
  • Monday 22 June — Years 10–12
  • Tuesday 23 June — 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. For more information, click here.

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:

  • Gianni Germano (Year 12) has been selected to represent Western Australia in the 2026 Football (Soccer) 18s Boys Championship. This team will be competing at the School Sport Australia National Championships in Melbourne, VIC from 26th July – 31st July 2026.
  • Violet Zuchkan (Year 7) has been selected to represent WA in the School Sports Australia Swimming Championships in Melbourne in November 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 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: 

Pathways and Careers

A summary of the different pathway options for Year 11 and 12 can be found here: 

Pathways and Careers

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. 

More information and costs here: https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia  

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. 

Register here: https://events.nd.edu.au/architecture_winter_school/home  

Law Start Program 

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. 

Register here: https://events.nd.edu.au/architecture_winter_school/home  

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. 

More information and costs here: https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia  

Law Start Program 

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/ 

For students thinking of attending University 

  • And here is the “First in Family” resource, for students who might be the first in their family to attend University: http://firstinfamily.com.au/ 

Pathways and Careers Information: Year 12 

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/ 

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. 
 
In addition to the UCAT, students considering applying for Medicine at Curtin University are also required to sit the CASPER Test. Further information about CASPER can be found here: https://acuityinsights.app/ and here: https://www.nie.edu.au/products-listing/category/56-casper-test-preparation 
 
 
The official handbook for entry to Medicine at Curtin can be found at this link. 
 
 
University of Notre Dame 
The University of Notre Dame offers a small number of places in postgraduate Medicine via an assured pathway for school leavers. Information about this option can be found here:  
https://www.notredame.edu.au/programs/school-of-medicine/postgraduate/doctor-of-medicine-wa 
 

Veterinary Science 

Students wishing to enter Veterinary Science at Murdoch will need to undertake the Casper testing during 2026, by June at the latest. Further information can be found here: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/schools/veterinary-medicine/study/admissions/casper-situational-judgement-assessment 

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. 

If you would like to enrol in UniPath for Semester 2, you can do so here in the “How to apply – UniPath” section: https://www.notredame.edu.au/study/applications-and-admissions/how-to-apply  

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. 

Register here: https://events.nd.edu.au/architecture_winter_school/home  

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. 

More information and costs here: https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia  

Law Start Program 

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 

University scholarships 

Curtin University Search scholarships | Curtin University, Perth, Australia  
Edith Cowan University (ECU) ECU | Overview : Scholarships  
Murdoch University Scholarship finder (murdoch.edu.au)  
Notre Dame University Find a Scholarship | Notre Dame  
University of Western Australia (UWA) The University of Western Australia : Scholarships (uwa.edu.au)  
Christian Leaders Scholarship https://ichthys.org.au/christian-leaders-scholarship/ 

Gap year information 

Students interested in taking a gap year in 2027 might find the following interesting: 

It is also worth taking a read of this useful article which details the pros and cons of taking a gap year: https://studyworkgrow.com/what-to-think-about-before-deferring-university/  

UPCOMING CAREERS EVENTS 

EVENT HOSTED BY DATE LINK 
Army Careers Information Session Defence Force 9 June https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/5vvdrzi  
Fremantle Dockers Sports / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 10 June https://seda.edu.au/register/fd/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=fremantle 
Engineering Open Evening ECU Joondalup 11 June https://www.trybooking.com/DJEAR 
Federal Police Information Session Aust Federal Police 16 June https://marketing.afp.gov.au/pub/pubType/EO/pubID/zzzz69c9b924aaaae173/interface.html  
Architecture and Design Open Evening UWA 17 June https://www.uwa.edu.au/study/events/school-of-design-open-night  
Perth Wildcats Sport / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 17 June https://seda.edu.au/register/pw/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=wildcats  
Newman College Careers Expo / Year 10 Parent Information Evening Newman College  23 June 3.30pm to 4.30pm: Year 11 and 12 Careers Expo  5pm to 6pm: Year 10 Careers / subjects Expo  6pm to 6.45pm: Year 10 Parent Info Session 
Computer Science Information Evening SAE University College 24 June https://sae.edu.au/event/online-info-session-computer-science/  
Electrical Careers Open Day College of Electrical Training 27 June https://events.humanitix.com/2026-cet-open-day-joondalup 
Army Reserve  Careers Information Session Defence Force 30 June https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/6xtm67k  
Year 12 Information Session ECU 30 June https://www.trybooking.com/DJELT 
Defence Careers Information Session Defence Force 21 July https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/0q7vezx 
Year 12 Application Support Session Murdoch University 28 July https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2026/07/28/information-evenings/year-12-university-application-support-session 
Open Day ECU City Campus 9 August https://www.ecu.edu.au/open-day/overview 
Year 12 Information Evening Murdoch University 20 October https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2026/10/20/information-evenings/year-12-online-information-evening 
Open Day SAE University College 15 August https://sae.edu.au/event/open-day-perth/ 
Fremantle Dockers Sports / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 19 August https://seda.edu.au/register/fd/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=fremantle 
Perth Wildcats Sport / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 26 August https://seda.edu.au/register/pw/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=wildcats  
Computer Science and Cybersecurity Information Evening ECU Joondalup 1 September https://www.trybooking.com/DLPPQ 
Teaching Degrees Information Session ECU 7 September https://www.trybooking.com/DKJNY  
    

If you are thinking of attending a University Open Day, this link might help you get the most out of it: https://myfuture.edu.au/assist-others/open-days  

Mission Update – Term 2 Week 7

Jenni Vile on 05/06/2026

This Saturday, 6 June, Marists around the world will celebrate the Feast Day of St Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers and the inspiration behind the mission we continue today.

When we hear stories of saints, it can sometimes be difficult to relate to them. We may imagine them as extraordinary people whose holiness places them somehow beyond the experiences of ordinary life. Yet the saints were, first and foremost, people just like us. They faced challenges, doubts, and limitations. What made them remarkable was not perfection, but their willingness to love God and to love others.

Marcellin Champagnat was one such person. Born in rural France in 1789, he was not a man of wealth, influence, or exceptional academic ability. Rather, he was a priest who saw a need in his community and chose to respond. He noticed the young people who were overlooked, forgotten, and lacking access to education and faith formation. Seeing their needs, he acted with humility, courage, and determination.

I often wonder whether Marcellin could ever have imagined what would grow from those simple beginnings. Could he have envisioned Marist schools on the other side of the world in Australia? Could he have imagined the thousands of students, families, staff, and communities who would one day be touched by his vision? I suspect that he would be genuinely surprised. Yet perhaps that is the beauty of his story. He did not set out to change the world; he simply responded faithfully to the needs he saw before him.

As we celebrate his feast day, we are reminded that the call to holiness is not reserved for a select few. Each of us is invited to be part of the communion of saints by continuing their work in our own time and place. Like Marcellin, we are called to notice those who may be overlooked, to respond with compassion, and to bring the love of God to others through our words and actions.

I wish all members of our community a wonderful weekend as we reflect on the life and example of St Marcellin Champagnat. While his feast day falls this Saturday, we are very much looking forward to celebrating together as a College community on Friday 19 June, once our senior students have completed their exams.

Mr Stuart McClorey

DIRECTOR OF MISSION & CATHOLIC IDENTITY

Secondary Update – Term 2 Week5

Jenni Vile on 22/05/2026

Year 10 Camp: An Adventure to Remember

Last week, our Year 10 students headed out on the annual camp at Manjedal Adventure Centre in Karrakup.

Nestled in the Jarrah forest midway between Byford and Jarrahdale, Manjedal Adventure Centre provided the perfect backdrop for challenge and adventure. The journey-style program pushed students in the best possible way. Carrying all their essentials in backpacks, cooking on camp stoves, and setting up and packing down their tents each morning, students quickly discovered what they were capable of. Daily activities — including hiking, high ropes and team-challenge exercises — tested them physically and mentally, while each evening’s debriefs and reflections gave them space to process their experiences and grow.

During the camp, students had the opportunity to build leadership, self-management, resilience, and personal independence — skills that will serve them well as they navigate the daily challenges of life. The program also provided meaningful time for students to reflect on their relationship with self, others and creation.

We are very proud of every student who stepped outside their comfort zone, supported their peers, and embraced every moment. Thank you to the staff who accompanied our students and to Adventure Works for delivering such a meaningful program.

Well done, Year 10 — you were outstanding!

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 note that students travelling without a SmartRider will need to pay the fare for the travel. 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.

Upcoming Events

National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week

On Tuesday 26 May, Newman College will come together as a whole school — from Pre-Primary to Year 12 — to mark National Sorry Day and the beginning of National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June).

Our Primary students will lead the College in a short assembly, followed by a whole-College handprint activity where senior students and their Primary buddies will create a united College display — a symbol of our shared commitment to reconciliation and a more just and equitable future.

Examination Timetable          

As we progress through Term 2 are Year 10, 11 and 12 students prepare for their first set of Examinations for the year. Exam timetables are linked below:

Year 12 Examination Timetable

Year 10 Examination Timetable

Year 11 Examination Timetable

State Sporting Representation

Congratulations to the following student for the state achievement in their sport:

  • Marcus Lark (Year 8) and William McGrath (Year 8) were selected to represent UWA Water Polo in the Under‑14 State Team, competing at this year’s Australian Youth Championships (AYC) in Brisbane. The tournament featured 25 teams from across Australia and New Zealand, providing a highly competitive environment. Both students performed strongly throughout the competition, making a meaningful contribution to the team’s overall performance.
  • Jackson Paytner (Year 12) has been selected in the School Sports WA team to compete in the 13-19 National Swimming Championships in Victoria in July.
  • Ashlee Kruger (Year 10) and Torah Wellman (Year 10) have been selected in the School Sports WA 15s Hockey Team, competing in the National Championships in Melbourne in July.
  • Otis Keane (Year 9) has been selected in the School Sports WA Australian Football 14s to compete in the National Schoolboy Championships in Melbourne in July.

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 here.

A summary of the different pathway options for Year 11 and 12 can be found here. 

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. 

More information and costs here: https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia  

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. 

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 UniPath 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. 

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. 

More information and costs here: https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia  

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/ 

For students thinking of attending University 

  • And here is the “First in Family” resource, for students who might be the first in their family to attend University: http://firstinfamily.com.au/ 

Pathways and Careers Information: Year 12 

Key dates for TAFE and University applications for 2027 

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. 

For those students applying for University for 2027, early applications (early offers) will open in June and you will have until mid-December to lodge your application. Closer to the time you will be provided with instructions and further information about applying. 

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. 

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/ 

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. 
 
In addition to the UCAT, students considering applying for Medicine at Curtin University are also required to sit the CASPER Test. Further information about CASPER can be found here: https://acuityinsights.app/ and here: https://www.nie.edu.au/products-listing/category/56-casper-test-preparation 
 
The official handbook for entry to Medicine at Curtin can be found at this link. 
 
University of Notre Dame 
The University of Notre Dame offers a small number of places in postgraduate Medicine via an assured pathway for school leavers. Information about this option can be found here:  
https://www.notredame.edu.au/programs/school-of-medicine/postgraduate/doctor-of-medicine-wa 

Veterinary Science 

Students wishing to enter Veterinary Science at Murdoch will need to undertake the Casper testing during 2026, by June at the latest. Further information can be found here: https://www.murdoch.edu.au/schools/veterinary-medicine/study/admissions/casper-situational-judgement-assessment 

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. 

If you would like to enrol in UniPath for Semester 2, you can do so here in the “How to apply – UniPath” section: https://www.notredame.edu.au/study/applications-and-admissions/how-to-apply  

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. 

More information and costs here: https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia  

Law Start Program 

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 

University scholarships 

Curtin University Search scholarships | Curtin University, Perth, Australia  
Edith Cowan University (ECU) ECU | Overview : Scholarships  
Murdoch University Scholarship finder (murdoch.edu.au)  
Notre Dame University Find a Scholarship | Notre Dame  
University of Western Australia (UWA) The University of Western Australia : Scholarships (uwa.edu.au)  
Christian Leaders Scholarship https://ichthys.org.au/christian-leaders-scholarship/  

Gap year information 

Students interested in taking a gap year in 2027 might find the following interesting: 

UPCOMING CAREERS EVENTS 

EVENT HOSTED BY DATE LINK 
Open Day Murdoch University 23 May https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2026/05/23/general/open-day-2026  
Open Day Curtin University 24 May https://www.curtin.edu.au/open-day/  
Army Reserve Information Session Defence Force 26 May https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/p8wcy9k 
Teaching Degrees Information Session ECU 26 May https://www.trybooking.com/DKJOC 
Year 12 Application Support Curtin University 27 May https://www.curtin.edu.au/events/application-support-evening/ 
Defence Force: Trade Careers Info Session Defence Force 28 May https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/l4inlkn  
Year 10 Parent Information Evening ECU Joondalup 2 June https://www.trybooking.com/DJEBI 
Year 11 and 12 Information Evening Murdoch University 3 June https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2026/06/03/information-evenings/year-11—12-parent—supporters-information-evening 
Year 12 Applications Support Session UWA 4 June UWA Early Offers and Year 12 Applications Webinar 
Fremantle Dockers Sports / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 10 June https://seda.edu.au/register/fd/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=fremantle 
Engineering Open Evening ECU Joondalup 11 June https://www.trybooking.com/DJEAR 
Perth Wildcats Sport / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 17 June https://seda.edu.au/register/pw/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=wildcats  
Newman College Careers Expo / Year 10 Parent Information Evening Newman College  23 June 3.30pm to 4.30pm: Year 11 and 12 Careers Expo  5pm to 6pm: Year 10 Careers / subjects Expo  6pm to 6.45pm: Year 10 Parent Info Session 
Computer Science Information Evening SAE University College 24 June https://sae.edu.au/event/online-info-session-computer-science/  
Electrical Careers Open Day College of Electrical Training 27 June https://events.humanitix.com/2026-cet-open-day-joondalup 
Year 12 Information Session ECU 30 June https://www.trybooking.com/DJELT 
Year 12 Application Support Session Murdoch University 28 July https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2026/07/28/information-evenings/year-12-university-application-support-session 
Open Day ECU City Campus 9 August https://www.ecu.edu.au/open-day/overview 
Year 12 Information Evening Murdoch University 20 October https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2026/10/20/information-evenings/year-12-online-information-evening 
Open Day SAE University College 15 August https://sae.edu.au/event/open-day-perth/ 
Fremantle Dockers Sports / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 19 August https://seda.edu.au/register/fd/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=fremantle 
Perth Wildcats Sport / Business Programs 2027 SEDA 26 August https://seda.edu.au/register/pw/?utm_source=seda_networks&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=wildcats  
Computer Science and Cybersecurity Information Evening ECU Joondalup 1 September https://www.trybooking.com/DLPPQ 
Teaching Degrees Information Session ECU 7 September https://www.trybooking.com/DKJNY  
    

If you are thinking of attending a University Open Day, this link might help you get the most out of it: https://myfuture.edu.au/assist-others/open-days  

From the Principal – Term 2 Week 5

Jenni Vile on 22/05/2026

The Power of Break: It Leads to Connection, Appreciation and Reset

The mid-term break, which includes WA Day, is fast approaching and, as families, I am sure we are looking forward to time together and precious moments. That weekend, we have the Lavalla Wizard of Oz Production, which will be such a treat to watch, but I am sure many of you are planning an outing, a weekend away or a catch-up. I wonder how many of us are intentionally setting aside quiet and unstructured times to just be present, breathe and experience true downtime without an agenda to ‘do’?

Accompanying the Year 10 group to camp just over a week ago got me thinking more about the importance of stillness, quiet time and presence in the moment. The camp is designed for our students to experience ‘Becoming Adult’, and it follows on from The Rite Journey program undertaken in Year 9. There were challenging moments, expectations with responsibility for tasks, teamwork, problem solving and discomfort. There was also significant time for silence, stillness and presence to oneself and one another. Staring into the fires each camp area set nightly was not simply providing a function to keep the group warm before heading to bed. Gathered at the fire, like so many cultures across time and place, the fire invited the warmth of community, reflection, contemplation and the invitation to listen properly to others around us and to nature.

It is crucially important for our young people and our own wellbeing to experience quiet and presence in the moment. It just does not happen enough or for long enough in everyday life. A phone out to scroll or even in proximity, a journey in the car where all but the driver quickly put earbuds in and watch reels, movies or listen to music. All are distractions and foils to true stillness. They seem to be connections but are actually things that draw us from connection.

Recently, the College Executive and I had the great joy of interviewing families and Year 4 students for positions to join Newman College in Year 7, 2029. It is so heartening to meet wonderful families and joyful children who tell the story of their own learning and pursuits out of school. What I am also acutely listening for is the family time, the protection of the simplicity of sitting together to share a meal at night, to have board games and conversations. Happily, I am hearing more and more parents reducing the number of activities and programs that fill up a young person’s afternoon, early evening and weekend and their intentional efforts in the family to model and provide breaks that foster connection, appreciation and reset. What great examples of the Marist characteristics of Presence and Simplicity. I think you are doing it better than I did as a father of my children at this age.

Please read on through the Newsletter to the key sections of the publication. The Vice Principal’s piece will be covering more of the wonderful achievements and engagements of the past fortnight.

Within the next few weeks, may there be moments of stillness, quiet and old-fashioned connection in the life of your family that bring you great joy.

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL

From the Principal – Term 2 Week 3

Jenni Vile on 08/05/2026

As this is our first Newsletter for Term 2, I am sending a warm welcome back to the winter term. Our students continue to show great commitment and a focus on personal best through the many events and learning opportunities they have been involved in for these three weeks. Here is just a snapshot of our students’ great work and our flourishing Newman College community:

Student Learning Conversations

Congratulations to our secondary students for the way in which they led the Student Learning Conversations (Parent-Teacher interviews). A firm part of successful learning is being able to understand where you are at, how you know this, and where you can be with strategies that you can employ for learning gains. The Student Learning Conversation is a part of the developing MyLearning approach that is coming into our pedagogy in the College. Lavalla Learning Conversations were another valuable time to share the progress of our primary students with families.

Guild Cross Country Carnivals

Both Lavalla and Marcellin campuses had beautiful weather for their cross country events. The commitment to Guild participation and the passion to achieve personal and Guild ‘bests’ has just grown so much over this year. Congratulations to Marcellin Guild for their win in Secondary. Romero Guild gave Marcellin a huge shake with their efforts to win the title from them. At Lavalla, it was Thomas More who took out the honours.

Mock Trials

For a number of years, our Senior Mock Trial teams have been a force to be reckoned with in the Mock Trial competition. This week, the 2026 team had great success against Penhros College.

Mother’s Day Celebrations and the Month of May

A Mass and a Liturgy dedicated to Mothers and mother figures, morning teas, games, photo booths and portrait painting were just some of the activities on campus late this week to celebrate Mother’s Day. May is also the Month of Mary and, in our Marist tradition, we know the important place Mary has in our Marian spirituality. Early next week, students will run the Crowning of Mary ceremony and produce a video that honours Mary our Mother. 

A Reflection on Mothers

The gaze of the Mother, and the gaze of every mother. A world that looks to the future without a mother’s gaze is shortsighted. It may well increase its profits, but it will no longer see others as children. It will make money, but not for everyone. We will all dwell in the same house, but not as brothers and sisters. The human family is built upon mothers. A world in which maternal tenderness is dismissed as mere sentiment may be rich materially, but poor where the future is concerned. 
Pope Francis 2019

We wish all mothers, grandmothers and mother figures a wonderful celebration on Sunday.

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL