Issue 06 - Thomas Carr College

Volume 20 Issue 06: May 6 2016
From the Acting Principal
Ms McDonald
Mother’s Day Mass
This morning, Fr Jude celebrated our Mother’s Day Mass. The Mass was a lovely
way for us to celebrate the gift of motherhood. This was followed by a light
breakfast in the College dining room. Many thanks to all that attended. Particular
thanks are extended to those mothers and students who played an active role in
our liturgy and Mr Morse and the choir who add so much to the richness of our
celebrations. Let us pray for our mothers.
You care for us, O God, as a mother cares for her children.
Protect and bless all Mothers of the world.
We ask this through Christ our lord. Amen
Visit by Catholic Education Melbourne Representatives
We were very fortunate to have had Executive Director of Catholic Education
Melbourne Mr Stephen Elder, Vicar General Monsignor Greg Bennet, Parish
Priests Fr Brady and Fr O’Reilly, CDF Chief Executive Officer Matthew Cassin,
Catholic Archdiocese Melbourne staff Adrian Klep and Francis Moore and CEM
staff Megan Ioannou, Barry O’Callaghan, Fergus Ryan, Sr Kath Tierney and
Anthony Murray visit the College on May 5. Our guests were particularly
interested in walking through our new buildings; the Bruce Runnalls Middle Years
Centre, Trade Training Centre and our beautiful Chapel. They were most
impressed with the wonderful facilities we are providing for our students and were
interested to hear about our new building projects
Coming Events
May 8: Mother’s Day
May 9: Malay & Borneo Remembrance
Service
May 10: NAPLAN for Years 7 and 9;
College Tour (by appointment only),
Birth of Thomas Carr, P&F meeting
(7pm)
May 11: NAPLAN for Years 7 and 9
May 12: NAPLAN for Years 7 and 9
May 13: Thomas Carr Day
May 16: CatholicCare Family Week
commences
May 17: Pentecost service
May 18: 2nd round of Immunisations for
Year 7s
May 19: Thomas Carr’s Ordination
May 20: Parish Mass at St James, ACS
Athletics Day; CatholicCare Week
concludes
May 23: SRC Casual Clothes Day (gold
coin donation)
May 26: National Sorry Day
May 27: Parish Mass at St James
May 30: Year 7 & 8 Exams, Year 10 &
11 Exams; ACS Chess at St Leonard;s
May 31: Year 7 & 8 Exams, Year 111
Exams
June 1: Year 10 & 11 Exams
June 2: Year 10 & 11 Exams, Year 8
Exam
June 3: Parish Mass at St James, Year
10 & 11 Exams, Year 8 Exam
June 6: Year 10 & 11 Exams
June 7: College Tour (by appointment
only), Year 12 Exams, GAT Exam
June 8: Year 10 & 11 Exams
June 9: Year 10 & 11 Exams
June 10: Staff Correction Day – Student
Free Day
June 13: Queen’s Birthday public
holiday
June 14: P&F meeting (7pm); Board
meeting
College Theme for 2016
College Vision
‘Be the face of mercy’
Thomas Carr College is a dynamic
Catholic learning community,
guided by the Gospel.
Prayer
Loving Father
We pray for our community as we celebrate our 20 year anniversary. May we be
strengthened to be witnesses to the Gospel of mercy and work for a future that
embodies a genuine culture of mercy.
We pray to the Lord.
Amen
Excellence and opportunities to
develop are pursued.
Through our hope and service to
others we shine our light into the
world.
Visit by Wenzhou Education Delegation
A delegation of Principals and Directors from the Wenzhou Education Bureau visited
Thomas Carr College on May 4. It is always pleasing to have colleagues from our
VCE in China school travel to Tarneit to visit our College. In particular, it was
wonderful to welcome the Principal of Wenzhou No. 21 School, Mr Wu and have
discussions about the VCE in China program and the growth of the relationship
between our schools.
College Athletics Carnival
Congratulations to all that participated in the annual House Athletics Carnival this
week at Newport. It was a very enjoyable day, until the rain started. As always, much
planning and preparation is essential to ensure its success. Thank you to the
outstanding participation by staff. A special thank you to Ms White, the Heads of
House and other members of the PE team for their wonderful organisation of the
day. Athletic Champions for 2016 will be announced at an assembly in due course.
Wenzhou Education Delegation with Acting
Principal Ms McDonald, Director of International
Programs Mr Bridges and 4 Thomas Carr
students
Patron of the College
During the month of May, we recognise the anniversaries of the birth, death and
ordination of our College patron, Archbishop Thomas Carr, the second Archbishop
of Melbourne. As we prepare to celebrate Thomas Carr Day on Friday May 13,
please read a small account of his life below.
Thomas Joseph Carr was born in Moylough, Galway, Ireland, on May 10 1839. He
was from a large, affectionate family who were landed. Carr learned to use this
experience to relieve the poverty of the landless majority in Ireland. He gave up the
land to become a priest and was ordained from Maynooth College on May 22 1866.
Thomas Carr was a genial man whose charm and culture attracted people of all
classes, creeds and races. He was firm for what was right, did not hesitate to correct
what was wrong and did so without alienating others.
His greatest work was in education. Shortly before his arrival in Melbourne, the
Victorian Government cut all subsidies to religious schools. Although most people in
Carr’s care were not wealthy, he was able to provide Catholic education for all. He
argued for thirty years for a just share of public tax money, with little success.
Thomas Carr planned a steady progression from primary to secondary, to tertiary
education. One of his greatest achievements was the establishment of a teacher
training college for the religious and the laity.
He was also a builder. A builder of things of real value and substance. A builder of
things that enriched people’s lives. And a builder of things that endured. St Patrick’s
Cathedral, Melbourne, is perhaps his most spectacular achievement, but there are
literally dozens of markers to Thomas Carr’s lasting contribution to the very fabric of
life in the State of Victoria. Not least, the parish of Werribee, which he established in
1906.Thomas Carr’s death occurred on May 6 1917, in Melbourne, after 30 years as
Archbishop of Melbourne.
Bronze Sculptural Portrait of Archbishop
Thomas Carr at the front of the College
And today, in another era and another age, his spirit, philosophy and foresight live
on in the College, which is proud to bear his name.
Thomas Carr Day
Thomas Carr Day will be held on Friday May 13 which is fast approaching!
A list of the food and activity stalls and the costs involved has been provided in this
edition of The Beacon. Please ensure that students do not bring large notes ie $20
or $50 notes on the day as we may not have sufficient change for them. We will
place notices in the student bulletin to remind students about this also.
Face Painting stall at Thomas Carr Day 2015
Student Achievements
When students achieve at school, whether it be on the sporting field, in the
classroom, as a student leader or due to excellent performances in drama, music or
singing, we aim to acknowledge their efforts in a variety of ways. This may be by
nominating them for a Beacon Award, acknowledging them in the daily bulletin, at
an assembly or at the annual ‘A Night to Shine’ which occurs in October. Our
students are also achieving wonderful things beyond the College and often, we don’t
hear about them.
I would ask parents to please advise the relevant Head of School of your
son’s/daughter’s out of school achievements so that we can celebrate their
successes with our College community.
Congratulations
We congratulate Mr Alex Guedes on having been invited to present at the Australian
Council for Educational Leaders (ACEL) International Symposium on Coaching and
Positive Phycology (ISCAPP) conference on June 2 and 3 in Sydney this year.
Alex has also been appointed by the Board of the Australian College of Educators
(ACE) as a member of the Policy Committee for 2016-2017. He will be an important
voice for secondary schools, the Catholic Education sector and importantly,
advocating for the promotion of quality teaching and teacher excellence.
Mr Alex Guedes
New PE Track Pants and Shorts
For the last 18 months, the SRC and in particular the SRC Executive committee,
have been deliberating about the College’s PE track pants and shorts. Over a
number of years, students have indicated their concerns about these items of
uniform. Some of the concerns are as follows:
•
The material is not warm enough
•
The material is easily damaged or torn
•
Don’t like the style of the bottom of the track pants
•
Girls feel the shorts are too long
Midfords have worked with the College to provide some samples of track pants and
shorts that have addressed these concerns and we thank them for their support.
In the event that the College decides to accept this proposal, the new track pants
and shorts will be compulsory for all Year 7 2017 students and any new students to
the College. The new uniform will also be provided for any other current student who
may need to update their uniform due to wear and tear or because they have
outgrown an item.
Last year’s SRC Executive and this year’s committee, have endorsed the proposed
designs that have been on display since April 27 in the main Administration office.
We encourage students, parents and staff to take a look and complete a very short
survey so that we can obtain your feedback. An email and SMS was sent out to all
parents. Thank you to all those in our community that took the time to complete the
survey.
Building Works and Campus Restrictions
The community is advised that the next stage of building works commenced.
Access to St Francis of Assisi
Parents and students will still be able to access St Francis of Assisi primary school
through the gate behind D block, by taking the path between the Bruce Runnalls
Middle Years Centre and D Block. A map has been included at the end of this
newsletter.
We are very excited about this next stage of development and we continue to work
towards ensuring that our students, staff and parents are provided with the most up
to date facilities, now and into the future.
New Thomas Carr PE Uniform
Building Site Establishment Layout
At the end of this edition of The Beacon, is the site establishment layout which has
been provided by the builders Ireland Brown Constructions. The layout shows those
areas that will be designated building sites and as such out of bounds to all but those
authorised to enter the site.
The rear gate running off Manna Gum Drive will be out of bounds for general traffic.
The Administration block will have a construction fence running around its perimeter
and the lawn directly in front of the building. Students will still be able to walk between
B block and the Information Centre as the path running along the back of the
Administration block will still be able to be used, albeit narrower.
The Beacon Award
The Beacon Award recognises achievements of our students. Selected students
will be presented with a certificate of commendation and their names will be
published in each edition of The Beacon. A maximum of 5 students per level may
be recognised each fortnight. The criteria is:

Evidence of learning which is consistently exemplary or displays great
improvement

An action performed by a student(s) that supports the Catholic ethos of the
school

Evidence of behaviour which is consistently exemplary or displays great
improvement

Active and purposeful involvement in a college or community event
Congratulations to the following students:
Isabel Wilson, Blake Sardi, Kynan Wiggins, Dinushi Bombuwelage
Year 7
Don, Achiek Machar
Ben Kennedy, Daniel Peerman
Year 8
Michael Abela, Joshua Chapman, Jasmine Wilson, Ebonie Ganley,
Year 9
Michael Jude
Georgia Mercica, Zara Gibson, Natalie Barry, Shelton Duarte
Year 10
Antonia Muscat, Julie Lloyd, Kyle Pillai
Year 11
Rachel Attard, Mitchell Florence, Jake Farrugia, Kongor Gak
Year 12
From the College Board
Ms Skinner
On Tuesday April 26 the College Board held its Annual General Meeting. As Dr
Watson is currently on leave, we were fortunate to have Deputy Principal Ms
McDonald with us.
Ms McDonald presented the annual ‘College Board and Principal Reports’. It
highlights the wonderful achievements attained by the students in academia, sport
and the Arts. It also celebrates some of the exciting projects that came to fruition in
2015, in particular, the official Blessing and Opening of the Trade Training Centre.
This wonderful first class facility offers students at the College and those in the
Wyndham region the opportunity to pursue qualifications in the areas of Building and
Construction.
The Report also details Stage 3 of the 10 year Master Building Plan for our College.
This includes a 500 seat Performing Arts Centre and an extension to the gymnasium
that will see it double in size and include two full sized basketball courts, along with
a sound and lighting system that will enable the provision of high quality audio visual
for significant school liturgies, assemblies and other events. Works have recently
begun on the refurbishment of the Administration building that will provide the
College community with a welcoming foyer and reception space, interview rooms
and additional staff amenities and office spaces.
Thanks to Mr Josh Ryan
On a sad note the Board thanked and farewelled Mr Josh Ryan. It has been great to
have a past student sit on the Board and we thank him for his contributions. We wish
Josh all the very best for the future.
The meeting continued with the election and appointment of the following for the
2016/2017 year:

Chairperson: Mrs. Connie Skinner

Deputy Chairperson: Mr Peter Coleridge

Confirmation appointment of Board Secretary: Ms Kerrie Deller
I think you will agree that the College entrance and grounds are very impressive.
Thank you to the College Property Manager Mr Shane Werner and his team for their
tireless efforts to keep it looking so good. Our College patron stands proud and all
who enter are immediately drawn into the welcoming community.
To maintain such grounds and state of the art facilities used by our children for their
education, takes careful planning, financial commitment and vision. On behalf of all
the parents I take this opportunity to thank Dr Watson, the College Executive and Ms
Sharon O’Neill our Business Manager, for their tireless efforts to make it all happen.
The College Board thanks Dr Watson for giving us the opportunity to be advisory
members. We look forward to supporting the Mission and Vision of the College in
the year ahead and beyond.
From the Business Manager
Ms O’Neill
Caremonkey – Important Update
All families would have received email alerts from the Care Monkey Administrator.
Please note that this is not a spam email, this is a new system the College has put
in place to make it easier and more convenient for you as parents/guardians to give
permission for your son/daughter to attend excursions and more importantly
ensuring that your child’s health details are reviewed and updated in a timely
manner.
All you have to do is sign up and create a profile for your child. This will take a
maximum of 10-15 minutes. Once you have done this you can frequently visit the
Care Monkey page and respond to any emails that you receive from the College.
If you have not been receiving emails please check your junk mail or contact the
College and we will be more than happy to help.
Many thanks to all the families that have already responded to the emails sent by
Care Monkey Administrator. We are hoping to have Care Monkey set up for the
whole school including the current Year 12s as soon as possible.
Do We Have Your Most Current Email Address?
It is very important that parent contact details are always up to date. If you have not
received an email about the CareMonkey sign up arrangement, it is possible that
your email address is no longer valid.
If in doubt please email student reception with ‘Email Address Update’ in the subject
line. Also include your full name and your child/rens names and year level.
Entrance to the College grounds
From the Senior Director
Student Data and Assessment – NAPLAN
Mr Wilkinson
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is an annual
assessment for students in Years 7 and 9. NAPLAN is made up of tests in four areas:

Reading

Writing

Language conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation)

Numeracy
The results of the tests provide information for students, parents and teachers about
student achievement which can then be used to inform teaching and learning
programs. It is expected that all students in Years 7 and 9 will participate in the 2016
NAPLAN.
As NAPLAN is fast approaching, it is important that students do a little preparation
to avoid any surprises on the day. It is really important for students to make sure that
they have all materials for the test and brush up on some key skills. Some key
activities that students could undertake in their own time are:

reading and answering “what do I know now?”, “what were the key ideas?”

basic maths problems around number, algebra, function and pattern, space,
measurement, chance and data

Writing a short persuasive and narrative piece

brushing up on their understanding of and rules around spelling, punctuation
and grammar
NAPLAN in 2016 will be conducted on the following days:
Tuesday May 10
Language Conventions 8:50am – 9:45am
Writing 11:05am – 11:55am Period 3
Wednesday May 11
Reading 8:50am – 10:05am
Thursday May 12
Numeracy (calculator) 8:50am – 9:40am
Numeracy (non-calculator 11:05am – 11:55am
Student expectations for NAPLAN are:

No laptop or mobile phone

Correct College uniform

2B or HB pencil

Eraser and sharpener

Blue or black pen

Calculator – for the Numeracy Calculator allowed test
If students do not bring required equipment to the tests, a consequence will be
issued.
As this is a Government run assessment, student results and reports are expected
to be released towards the middle of Assumption Term.
From the Director of International Programs
Mr Bridges
Year 12 Scholarships to Study in China
The Chinese Government is offering three scholarships for current Year 12 students
to study in China. Recipients will receive a full scholarship for study in 2017 and
undertake their choice of a four-year degree program at a Chinese university or a
Chinese language program in a Chinese university for up to one year. Applicants
must be Australian citizens who will complete their VCE, VCAL or IB in 2016.
Applicants must be in good health and under 25.
Interested students should email an expression of interest by May 4 to Tonia Sanft,
International Relations Unit, at [email protected] This should
include:

the applicant’s name, age, gender, school name, the desired scholarship
(four-year degree or one-year language program) and a brief description of
their interest in and motivation for a scholarship (max. 500 words)

a letter of recommendation from their principal (max. 500 words) and their
most recent school reports
Shortlisted students will be assisted to complete the full online application and
paperwork by mid May. This includes submission of health and medical test
information obtained from their GP.
The scholarship covers tuition, basic learning materials, accommodation on-campus,
living allowance, comprehensive medical insurance, a one-off settlement subsidy
after registration and a one-off inner-city travel allowance. Air fares are not covered.
For enquiries about the Expression of Interest process, contact Tonia Sanft at
[email protected] For enquiries about the scholarships contact
Consul Wenke Nie, Chinese Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China
in Melbourne on 9827 6113.
From the Director of Student Services
Mrs McCarthy
Victorian Child-Safe Standards
Earlier in the year, College staff and parents were advised via The Beacon of the
introduction of new Victorian minimum child-safe standards into law, along with
Ministerial Order 870 which specifies the actions required of schools to ensure
compliance with these new standards from August 1 as part of their registration
obligations. These child-standards provide a radical shift in our school’s child protection
obligations and are designed to ensure that the protection of children and young
people is embedded in the everyday thinking and practice of leaders, staff and
volunteers.
Thomas Carr College commits to providing a safe and nurturing culture for all
children and young people through:

Upholding the primacy of the safety and wellbeing of children and young
people, with particular attention to the cultural safety of Aboriginal children and
children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as
the safety of children with a disability

Empowering families, young people and staff to have a voice and raise
concerns

Implementing rigorous risk-management and employment practices.
CECV have recently released their Commitment Statement to Child Safety which is
available on the CEVN website https://cevn.cecv.catholic.edu.au under Curriculum
and Student Support/Student Wellbeing.
In the coming months, the College will continue to work through the
recommendations and requisite changes brought about by the introduction of these
standards. An overview of the standards will be presented at staff meetings and also
made available to parents via The Beacon.
Please do not hesitate to make contact with me by phoning 8734 2414 if you have
any queries or questions.
From the Student Wellbeing Team
Ms Ward
Technology and Teen Identity
In the adolescent years, teenagers are forming their social identities. This is a
process of coming to understand who they are, where they belong in the world and
who they belong to. As teenagers move through this difficult time, they tend to place
more value on friendships, and turn to their friends for sources of validation. For
today’s teens, the increasing use of technology adds a new dimension to the process
of establishing an identity. With this comes risks and challenges that parents need
to know about.
Teens Using the Internet to Gain Feedback
There are a number of sites frequented by Australian teens at present that allow
teens to gain feedback about themselves. For example, sites such as Ask FM, allows
teenagers to receive anonymous responses to questions they post about themselves
such as “Am I fat?” or “Am I cute?” These types of sites open up teens to ridicule or
self-esteem issues if the responses they receive are negative.
As Catherine Steiner-Adair, a psychologist and author of The Big Disconnect:
Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age says: “Kids are
always looking at each other and comparing themselves to each other…the
difference for teenagers today is that there is an endless supply of people to whom
they can compare themselves.”
Teens Using the Internet to Experiment with Identity
It is becoming commonplace for teenagers to create different online “selves” for
different audiences - almost like creating different “brands”. For example, a teen may
have different identities for their Twitter profile, their Facebook profile and their email
inbox. This is sometimes a way of trying to “individualise” or set themselves apart
from others online. It can also be a form of approval seeking.
Unfortunately, focusing too much on creating and maintaining these false or distorted
online “selves” can confuse the process of the teenager’s identity establishment –
one of the key tasks of adolescence. As with any other form of online activity, there
are also risks, ie what your teenager is posting could compromise their reputation or
privacy - particularly if the material could be misrepresented or passed around by
others. (Source: Johnson, C (2014) Growing up Digital: How the Internet affects
Teen Identity)
Steps You Can Take as a Parent

Make sure your teenager is aware of some of the issues involved with
spending time on the Internet

Place the computer in a public area of the home, such as a living room

Consider installing filtering software on computers used by young people

Be aware of sites such as Ask FM and other sites that teens use to seek
anonymous feedback

Show your teenager what sites they can go to and what information they can
send out

Ensure you are able to access your son or daughter’s email and randomly
check the contents
(Source: Moonee Valley Police Blue News, Issue 4, May 2016)
Talk to Your Teenager About Their Digital Reputation
It is important teenagers know that:

Once information makes its way online it can be difficult to remove and can
be easily and quickly shared around

Images and words can be misinterpreted and altered as they are passed
around

Tagged photos, blog posts, and social networking interactions can shape how
teens are perceived by others, both online, and offline, now and in the future

Content intended for a small group of friends can cause issues when shared
with others outside the group

Privacy settings on social media sites need to be managed in order to protect
one’s digital reputation
(Sources: The Office of the Children’s E-Safety Commissioner)
For more information on Digital Reputation, please visit the Office of the Children’s
E-Safety Commissioner: https://www.esafety.gov.au/esafety-information/esafetyissues/digital-reputation
For further information on Web Safety check out the following website and click on
‘Stay Safe Online’: http://www.acma.gov.au/
Students performing at ‘A Time to Shine’
From the Head of Senior School
Mrs Knurek
Punctuality, Uniform and Attendance
There are a number of students who have been late to school recently. Homeroom
is an integral part of the school day where notices are handed out, general
information is given and the day commences with a prayer and reflection. All
students are expected to be on time for Homeroom which commences at 8.45am.
All students are also expected to have the correct uniform and to wear it with pride
as representatives of the College. Students who are wearing incorrect uniform or
items that are not part of the College or sports uniform, may be required to go home
and change. Parents are reminded that it is not permitted for students to wear “skins”,
leggings or tracksuit pants that are not part of the College sports uniform. Nail polish,
eye makeup and excess jewellery are also not part of the uniform. Girls are expected
to have long hair tied back and boys are expected to be clean shaven. Your
assistance with this is appreciated.
Students performing at ‘A Time to Shine’
A Time to Shine
It was my great pleasure to participate in the preparation of the choirs involved in the
Gala Concert “A Time to Shine” arranged by Catholic Education Melbourne. We were
fortunate to be able to use the Regent Theatre in Collins Street for the two concerts
on Saturday April 30. It was a terrific opportunity for the 400 students from Catholic
schools across Melbourne to work together to produce such a high standard of
performance. Working with professionals in a venue like the Regent Theatre was
also a wonderful experience for all students involved, many of whom had been
working since November last year to perfect their dance and singing routines.
Congratulations to all involved.
ANZAC Day
The Anzac Day March and Service of Remembrance at Melbourne’s Shrine of
Remembrance on Monday April 25 was once again attended by a number of our
College Leaders who participated in the March as Flag Bearers for the Malaya and
Borneo Veterans, Werribee Branch. Amy Bongetti, Luke Gleeson, Thomas Duxon,
Emily Reeves, Ben Hurn, John Tomelty, Paul Tomelty and Brianna Herman
represented our College very well. I thank Mr Guedes who also attended on behalf
of the College.
ANZAC Day March with the Malaya and
Borneo Veterans in Melbourne
Year 12 VCAL Excursion
The Year 12 VCAL Personal Development course has a requirement for the students
to demonstrate leadership skills and decision making skills in group situations and
to work together in small teams. In order to demonstrate competency in these two
outcomes, students planned a day in the city with a focus on exploring social diversity
within Melbourne. Students attended the Melbourne Immigration Museum, the
Aboriginal Art Section of the NGV and other culturally significant landmarks that they
had identified for their chosen country. The influence on food, fashion and design of
their selected country was also explored.
Year 12 VCAL students in Melbourne City
Examinations
Examinations are one part of student assessment and as such need to be treated
seriously. It is important that proper revision and preparation is undertaken by all
students. Students who fail three or more Examinations and/or a number of
assessment tasks may be required to sit an Academic Panel. This may have serious
consequences for future subject choices. If you have any queries about the
Examinations, please contact the Senior Director, Mr Scarlata or the Head of
Learning & Teaching: Senior School, Ms Sherlock.
The importance of getting the balance right between work, study and leisure time
activities is a vital ingredient in students achieving success.
Year 11 VCAL Students in Examination Week
During the week Tuesday May 31 to Friday June 10, while Year 11 VCE students
are undertaking their Examinations, Year 11 VCAL students will not be required at
the College on Tuesday May 31, Friday June 3, Monday June 6 and Tuesday June
7. Friday June 10 is a student free day. VCAL students are expected to be at their
TAFE and work placement on the Wednesday and Thursday of these weeks.
As many of the VCAL students have been and will be involved in holiday blocks for
VET courses, this is an opportunity for VCAL students to catch up on any outstanding
work requirements at home and to ensure they are meeting all requirements for their
TAFE or VET course.
Year 11 Scored VET Students
A reminder to all Year 11 scored VET students that they are required to sit the GAT
Examination on Tuesday June 7. Full details will be advised to the students closer
to the day.
The General Achievement Test (GAT): Tuesday June 7, 10.00am to 1.15pm
The GAT is a three hour test of general knowledge and skills in Written
Communication, Mathematics, Science and Technology, Humanities, the Arts and
Social Science. All students completing a Unit 3/4 subject, must complete the GAT.
Year 11 and 12 students who are participating in the GAT will have the day of the
GAT free of classes. Full details will be advised to students shortly.
While the GAT results do not automatically contribute towards the VCE, the results
do play a very important part in the final assessment of the VCE as they are used to
check that the Examinations, SACs and SATs have been accurately and fairly
marked. Further, if a student is ill, has an accident or experiences severe personal
hardship at the time of an Examination, a student may apply for a Derived
Examination Score (DES). The GAT results contribute towards the calculation of the
DES.
The College strongly advises all students who are preparing to sit the GAT to access
past papers, in particular the multiple choice questions to gain an understanding of
the format and style of questions. All material related to the GAT, including past
Examination papers, can be obtained online using the following link:
http://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/pages/vce/exams/gat/index.aspx
Year 12 Information Evening and Unit 4 Parent/Teacher Student Conferences
This is an advance notice of the compulsory meeting for all students graduating from
the College in 2016. At least one parent/guardian must attend on Thursday August
18 from 6.30pm to 7.15pm, with their child. On the night, we will outline our
expectations of students over the final weeks of their secondary schooling.
The evening will also be combined with the VCE Unit 4 Parent/Teacher/Student
Conferences. This will provide an opportunity for parents and students to obtain
feedback from their Unit 4 teachers. Appointment times will be available from 4.30pm
to 6.20pm and from 7.20pm to 8.20pm. Further details will be available shortly.
Supporting Year 12 Students
Year 12 is considered by some to be the most important year of schooling. There is
an enormous amount of pressure on Year 12 students and it comes from parents,
teachers, schools and the students themselves.
There are a number of ways parents can support their children as they work through
their final year of schooling. For further information please go to
http://resources.beyondblue.org.au/prism/file?token=BL/1292
WRICA Careers & Employment Expo
The WRICA Careers Expo commenced in 1998 and was designed to highlight the
wide range of career course and employment options available for both young
people and the local members of the Cities of Wyndham and Hobsons Bay. The
Expo caters to a diverse secondary student cohort from a range of Government and
Independent schools located in the western region of Melbourne. Over 3000
students from Years 10, 11 and 12 attend the two day event, which is also open to
the general public.
This year all Year 10 students will attend the Expo on Thursday May 19 as part of
their career planning and preparation for future pathways and work experience
options. My thanks to the Careers staff for their ongoing work with our students.
From the Head of Middle School
Mr le Roux
Year 7 Reflection Day
On Friday April 15, all Year 7 students, along with their Year Level Co-ordinators and
Religious Education teachers, participated enthusiastically in a Reflection Day held
at Encore Events Centre. The day was led by a group of young adults from the Youth
Mission Team (YMT), an organisation with over 25 years of youth ministry
experience inspiring and supporting young people to explore and reflect on issues
important to them in a fresh and unique way.
The theme of the Reflection Day was ‘Finding God’ and the program, which
complemented our RE curriculum, was divided into sessions, each with a different
focus and various engaging activities. The first session emphasised the uniqueness
of each individual, the inherent dignity of each person, valued and loved by God.
The next session focussed on the value of accepting and respecting others; being a
caring and compassionate member of a community. The final session reminded us
to be guided by Jesus Christ, the perfect example of love and forgiveness. The
concluding activity was an invitation to students to write a brief prayer and place it
on a simple wooden cross. Students responded reverently and took the opportunity
to express their gratitude or faith in God.
On Friday April 15, we had our first Reflection Day. It was held at the Encore Events
Centre, and our hosts were part of an organisation known as the Youth Ministry
Team. We played games involving teamwork before being quizzed about what we
thought the theme of the day was. While there were several good answers, we
eventually settled on ‘Knowing God’.
Year 7 Reflection Day
Throughout the rest of day we were shown several dramas, most notably one that
featured individuality, self-confidence, and accepting others for who they are. We
were also placed into small groups and had to look at an image (that was different
for each group) and state ways that the image was related/similar to life. The Youth
Ministry Team also showed us a clip from a movie in which a man had decided that
God wasn’t doing a good enough job, and decided to take his place. In this particular
scene, the man had died, and in heaven God asked him to pray. After giving a classic
prayer, God told him to try again, and then the man delivered a prayer from his heart.
Throughout the rest of the day, students were invited to write an anonymous prayer
straight from our hearts on a sticky note and stick it onto a cross. Throughout the
entire thing, members of the team played a beautiful piece of music. Isabel Wilson
Youth Ministry Team display
On Reflection day, the Year 7s visited the Encore Centre to spend the whole day
with the Youth Mission team. We were involved in many activities that included
teamwork and explored how God can help us in many ways. A few members of the
team shared some emotional stories about their life including their relationships with
friends, family and God. We were also split up into small groups and had discussions
on how God can help you in school and in life. The day was fantastic and everyone
loved the Youth Mission Team’s outlook and energy. If I had the chance to spend
another day with the Youth Mission team, I definitely would. Ellezon Bugayong
Year 8 Shine
During the Assumption Term, students will travel to the Medibank Ice House in
Docklands. Here they will experience a day consisting of a lesson in ice skating,
followed by a choice of either ice hockey or curling. Students will receive professional
instruction from qualified coaches in ice skating, within their respective ability. They
will learn to overcome personal challenges by putting their physical abilities to the
test. Once confident they will play either a game of ice hockey for those more
confident skaters or curling for intermediate skaters.
Homeroom
Date
8 Blue
Friday August 26 2016
8 Gold
Friday August 26 2016
8 Green
Monday August 22 2016
8 Jade
Monday August 22 2016
8 Purple
Thursday August 25 2016
8 Red
Wednesday August 24 2016
8 Silver
Thursday August 25 2016
Year 7 Reflection Day
Year 9 Country Experience
The thing I enjoyed most about Country Experience was the bike ride. I liked it
because riding through the forest, both uphill and downhill, really gave me a positive
vibe, something you don’t get in the city. The ride was about 35km, and it’s amazing
how we all reached the finish line, together, as a team!
The biggest challenge I faced was the 10km hike through the bush. It was tough
because we were walking through difficult terrain and we carried a really heavy back
pack, but we all did it. As we progressed along the walk the scenery made up for any
fatigue we were feeling, and I ended up really enjoying it. I overcame the physical
challenge by continuing to push myself and encourage my mates around me, really
motivating each other to succeed. The one thing I learnt about myself is that I really
enjoy the country side, maybe even more than I thought.
This is an experience not to be missed by all future Year 9 students because you
make many new friends, even if you already knew these people and so many
memories you can look back on. I think that everyone that gets this opportunity really
has something great to look forward to. Bertwin Gomez
The thing I enjoyed most about Country Experience was getting to know my class
mates a lot better. We played table tennis in our spare time, and going on the bike
rides was a great experience. The train rides were also a great way to talk about all
the things we had done, as we had time to just sit and talk with our mates.
Two things that made the whole experience much easier were the staff, who were
very supportive, and the food which was amazing! The biggest challenge I faced was
probably the physical demands of doing the long bush walk, because our packs were
heavy and you really worked up an appetite on the walk. But it all paid off once you
got to see the amazing views at the beach, something you would never normally get
to see. I overcame this physical challenge by pushing myself further and further each
time I felt like stopping; encouragement goes a long way. I also drank more water
than I usually do and just tried to focus my mind on positive things. I had a good chat
with the campus staff as well, that really helped.
Good Samaritan Campus main building
The one thing I learnt about myself was that if I believe in myself then I can
accomplish anything. Being positive and focused is really important. This is an
experience not to be missed by all future Year 9 students because you get to be
involved in recreation and to also get away from school in a different environment.
Nick Moran
From the Social Justice Co-ordinator
Mrs Dagmang
ANZAC Fundraiser
On Friday April 22, the College Vinnies Conference held a fundraiser to raise money
for ANZAC Day, whilst at the same time promoting the ANZAC spirit.
2016 marks 101 years since our soldiers landed at Gallipoli during World War 1. On
April 25 each year we commemorate the lives of those who served our country so
bravely. Their sacrifices were immense and we should acknowledge this not only on
ANZAC Day, but every day.
Vinnies Conference students manning the
ANZAC Day stall
The fundraiser saw the Conference selling hot chocolate, ANZAC biscuits and
ANZAC badges, each priced at $2. Thank you to the large number of students who
came along and supported the fundraiser and to the Conference team for organising
such a smoothly run event.
Community News
Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre Open Day
Come and visit the Centre on Saturday May 7 between 10.00am and 4.00pm at 362
Albert Street, East Melbourne. Visitors will be able to:

Pray in the Chapel

Take a tour of the Museum

Visit the Gift Shop

Enjoy a light refreshment

Mary MacKillop Walking Tour available at 11.00am

Special Mother’s Day Morning or Afternoon Tea available from 10.30am to
3.00pm ($5 per person)
Building Works Maps
Site Establishment Map
Vinnies Conference students manning the
ANZAC Day stall
Access to St Francis of Assisi
Thomas Carr Day Stall and Activities
2016
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Stall
Donuts
Gelati Van
Sausage Sizzzle
Cheese Burgers
Soft Drinks
Soft Drinks
Bottles of water
Subway
Sushi
Noodles
Churros
Muffins
Popcorn
Pizza
Fairy Floss
Lolly Bags
Cake stall
Potato wedges
Hot Chocolate
Potato chips
Snow cones
Hash browns
Fried Rice
Hot soup stall (NEW)
Street crepes (NEW)
Mexican icecream (Paletas) (NEW)
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Lolly Jar Guessing Competition
Hairspray
Face Painting
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Chocolate Coin Toss
Wii Dance
Guitar Hero competition
Raffle
Sponge Throwing
Cost
$2.00
Various prices
$2.00
$3.50
$2.00
$2.00
$2.00
$3.00
$1.00 or 4 for $3.00
$6.00
$1.50 or 3 for $4.00
$2.00
$2.00
$2.00 or 2 slices for $3.50
$2.00
$1.00
Various prices
$3.00
$2.00
$2.00
$2.00
$1.00
$5.00
$3.00
Various prices
Fruit and creamy paletas $5
Premium paletas $6
50c
$2.00
$2.00 for full face
$1.00 for half face
20c
$2.00
$2.00
$1.00 or 6 for $5.00
$1.00
Photo Booth
Board games (NEW)
Bocce competition (NEW)
Golf chipping game (NEW)
TV show screening (NEW)
Knock them down (NEW)
50c or 3 for $1.00
50c
$1.00
$1.00 for 3 turns
Gold coin donation
50c for 3 throws
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