Primary Update – Term 2 Week 10

Year 5 Red Assembly

Last Friday, 5 Red treated us to an entertaining and informative assembly on adaptation and the fascinating ways animals adjust to their environments over time in order to survive.

Their presentation also reminded us of something essential to human survival and wellbeing: the need to feel loved and to belong. Just as animals adapt to thrive, we too flourish when we feel valued and supported.

It’s a shared responsibility for all of us to help ensure that everyone feels a strong sense of belonging in our Marist family, where every student knows they are seen, valued, and loved by their peers.

Year 6 Assembly

This morning, our Year 6 Blue students delivered an impactful assembly performance highlighting the effect of pollution on our environment and the importance of taking action today.

Through a creative journey into the future — all the way to 2075 — they showed us what our world could look like if we don’t act now: the Great Barrier Reef lost, our oceans choked with plastics, and record-high temperatures becoming the norm.

Their message was an inspiring call to action for us all: even the smallest positive changes we make today can have a significant impact on the future. It’s a responsibility we all share to care for our planet, and we commend Year 6 Blue for using their voices to remind us just how important this is.

Well done to all involved for this timely and thought-provoking message!

Year 2 Liturgy

Yesterday, we celebrated our final day at Marian with a beautiful Liturgy organised by our Year 2 students, centred around the theme of friendship and farewelling Marian.

A highlight of the celebration was a heartfelt reflection video featuring photos of each class, capturing the strong sense of family spirit and our love of work.

A sincere thank you to the Year 2 Unit Group and Mrs Jane Short for preparing such a special and memorable Liturgy, a meaningful way to honour our community’s rich history at Marian.

Marian Move

Yesterday, we shared our last day at the Marian campus. The mood is high with staff and teachers very excited about the move. Removalists have been on-site nearly every day this week, moving furniture and resources. Our teachers have been seen very late into the evening setting up our new learning spaces. We look forward to welcoming parents to the new build for Parent Teacher Interviews on Tuesday 22 July and students on Wednesday 23 July.

I am so proud of our community for how both staff and students have approached the challenges of this week with limited furniture and resources. I have seen every one of our Marist values come to life.

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New Finish Time for Pre-Kindy and Kindy

A reminder that Pre-Kindy and Kindy will finish at the new time of 2.45pm from Term 3. This is to accommodate for the increase of traffic to the primary campus.

Kiss n Ride for Pre- Primary

In Term 3, we will be trialling Kiss ‘n’ Ride for our Pre-Primary students.

Each classroom will have a Kiss ‘n’ Ride register where you can indicate if you’d like your child to be brought to the collection point. Please note that you must register your child each day if you wish for them to use this service.

If you would prefer your child to go to Kiss ‘n’ Ride on a regular basis (e.g., every day or on specific days each week), please email your classroom teacher directly.

Children will be supervised by an Education Assistant while they wait to be collected.

We appreciate your support as we trial this new system to help make pick-up time smoother and more efficient.

Parent Teacher Interviews Tuesday 22 July

Parent Teacher Interviews are being held of Tuesday 22 July and you have received correspondence from the College regarding how to book your appointments. These meetings offer a valuable opportunity to discuss your child’s progress, celebrate their achievements, and work together to support their ongoing learning and wellbeing. Strong partnerships between home and school play an important role in every child’s educational journey, and we look forward to connecting with you to share insights and future goals.  

9.00am – 12.20pmOnline interviews only via Teams
1.15pm – 5.35pmIn-person interviews will be held in your child’s classroom at the Primary Campus, 216 Empire Avenue, Churchlands. There will be clear signs to direct PK-2 families.

As part of our commitment to fostering respectful and productive relationships between families and staff, the College asks all parents and carers to adhere to the Parent Code of Conduct during Parent-Teacher Interviews. This includes engaging in courteous and respectful dialogue, honouring the scheduled time allocation for each meeting, and recognising that complex or sensitive matters may require a separate, dedicated appointment to ensure they are addressed appropriately. Maintaining positive and professional communication supports our shared goal of working in partnership to enhance each student’s learning and wellbeing.

Missing Uniforms

As the winter months roll in, so do the missing jumpers, blazers, and mystery socks! We have noticed a rise in lost uniform items lately. If your child arrives home with an unexpected addition to their wardrobe, please send it into Reception. We will play uniform matchmaker and do our best to reunite it with its rightful owner.

Thanks for helping us solve the case of the wandering winterwear!

Communication regarding your child

We kindly ask that any concerns regarding your child’s learning progress, behaviour, or wellbeing be communicated directly with their classroom teacher.

While our Educational Assistants play a vital role in supporting students throughout the day, classroom teachers are best placed to discuss and respond to individual student matters. This ensures clear communication and allows us to provide the most accurate and effective support for your child.

Thank you for your understanding and for partnering with us to support your child’s growth and development.

End of Term

As we come to the end of a busy and memorable term, we thank you for your ongoing support, kindness, and involvement in school life. We hope the upcoming winter break brings rest, joy, and quality time with loved ones.

We look forward to seeing everyone back in Term 3 as we continue our journey together as #OneCampusOneCommunity.

Mrs Sarah Pagett

ACTING HEAD OF PRIMARY

Secondary Update – Term 2 Week 8

Year 10 to 12 Photo Days

Year 7-9 Students had their photo day last Monday. I would like to thank all parents for their support in ensuring that students were well-presented on the day.

Year 10-12 students will have their individual and PCG photos taken this coming week, in addition to selected specialised group photos. The current schedule can be accessed here.

Students are required to wear their Winter Academic Uniform with their blazer for all photos. Students wearing the College skirt must also wear the opaque grey tights. Students are reminded to observe our College’s Uniform and Personal Presentation Guidelines. Any student who does not meet these guidelines will not be permitted to have their photo taken on the scheduled day. If any students have concerns about their appearance or uniform not meeting our College Guidelines, they are encouraged to speak to their Leader of Wellbeing.

Year 7-12 Celebration Assembly – Friday 4 July

Secondary students celebrate the past term on Friday 4 July, during the Celebration Assembly. Parents/guardians are reminded that this is a formal event, and all students are required to attend school in the morning in their Winter Academic Uniform with their blazer. Students wearing the College skirt must also wear the opaque grey tights.

Mrs Carla Pastorelli

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL SECONDARY

Parenting through the storm:
Why our teens still need us – even when they say they don’t

As our children move through the teenage years, it can feel as though they’re constantly pulling away, seeking more independence, more privacy, more space. But beneath the surface, something else is also happening:

They still need us. Just differently.

Their growing independence doesn’t mean they’re ready to regulate all the big emotions that come with it. In fact, their developing brains are still learning how.

Here are a few gentle reminders and a few practical ideas to support you in holding space for your teen through the highs and lows of adolescence:

Their brain is still developing

While their bodies may look grown, the emotional regulation part of the brain (the prefrontal cortex) is still under construction well into their twenties. Meanwhile, the emotional centre (the amygdala) is highly active, leading to intense feelings and reactions.

They feel like adults, but they’re still learning how to manage those feelings. Our calm presence helps their nervous system learn to settle.

What helps in those moments:

  • Saying: “I can see you’re really overwhelmed right now. Let’s take a minute together.”
  • Offering a warm drink or quietly sitting with them.
  • Gently asking about the activity they’re engaged in (yes, even an online game), or joining them in it.
  • Slowing your own breath and voice and gently saying: “Let’s take a breath together. No pressure to talk yet.”

They need co-regulation, not control

In moments of overwhelm, our grounded presence teaches our teens emotional regulation far more than any lecture. Staying calm while staying connected helps them come back to balance.

Support might sound like:

  • “Let’s take a break and come back to this when we’ve both had a moment. I want to understand you, not argue.”
  • “I know this feels like a lot right now. You’re not in trouble – we’ll work it out.”

It also helps to:

  • Lower your voice instead of matching theirs.
  • Sit beside them instead of across or above.
  • Notice your own tone and posture, and shift toward softening.

 Validation builds trust

We don’t have to agree with every feeling to honour it. Reflecting their emotions without dismissing them helps keep the connection open, even when things are tense.

You might say:

  • “That sounds like a lot to carry.”
  • “This clearly matters to you. Thanks for trusting me with it.”
  • “I might not fully understand, but I’m here to listen.”
  • “Would you like me to listen, offer advice, or help you problem solve?’ (This gives them a sense of agency and lets them guide the kind of support they need.)

Often, it’s not about solving—it’s about staying.

 They crave connection – even while asking for space

Their need for space is real, but so is their need for us. They may not ask in obvious ways, but small moments of presence still matter deeply.

Ways to gently stay connected:

  • Offer a ride or invite them on a quick errand – low pressure, no eye contact needed.
  • Leave a snack, a kind message, or even a silly meme.
  • Say something like: “No need to talk – just happy to be here with you.”
  • Share something small from your own day to show emotional openness.

Repair matters more than perfection

We all lose our cool. What shapes our teens isn’t whether we mess up – it’s how we return.

Repair might sound like:

  • “I was frustrated earlier, and I didn’t handle that well. I’m sorry.”
  • Can we take a moment to reset and try again. I want this to feel safe for both of us.”
  • “We’re figuring this out together. I’m still learning, too.”

This teaches them that love can hold both mistakes and mending and is an important way for us to role model.

 Silence doesn’t always mean distance

Sometimes our teens withdraw not because they’re shutting us out, but because they don’t always have the words. Quiet presence still counts.

How we can gently stay close:

  • Sit with them while they scroll, do homework, or game – without asking questions
  • Say: “I know you don’t want to talk right now, and that’s okay. I’m here.”
  • Invite small, familiar rituals – watch a show together, go for a walk, listen to music.
  • Keep the door open with: “If you ever want to talk or vent, I’m around. No pressure, no advice unless you want it.”

 In summary:

Even as they test limits and push for freedom, our teens are still asking us:

“Can I still count on your calm, when I’m caught in the chaos?”
 “Can you still hold space for me even when I don’t have it all together?”

Let’s be their calm. Let’s be their steady. Not perfect—just present.

 Helpful book suggestions:

For parents who would like to delve deeper into the science, empathy, and strategies behind supporting teens through their emotional and developmental shifts, these books are a fantastic starting point:

 Brainstorm: The Power and Purpose of the Teenage Brain by Dr. Daniel J. Siegel
 Explains what’s happening inside the adolescent brain – from risk-taking to emotional reactivity – and how we can use that knowledge to stay connected and supportive.

Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers by Dr. Gordon Neufeld & Dr. Gabor Maté
 Explores the vital importance of attachment between parents and teens. It’s a reminder that no matter how much they push away, our connection is the compass they need.

 The Whole-Brain Child by Dr. Daniel J. Siegel & Dr. Tina Payne Bryson
 Provides twelve key strategies for helping children use different parts of their brain to better handle and learn from challenging situations, conflicts, and day-to-day struggles.

Untangled: Guiding Teenage Girls Through the Seven Transitions into Adulthood by Dr. Lisa Damour
 Helps parents understand the seven distinct – and absolutely normal – developmental transitions that turn girls into grown-ups.

Masterminds and Wingmen: Helping Our Boys Cope with Schoolyard Power, Locker-Room Tests, Girlfriends, and the New Rules of Boy World by Rosalind Wiseman
 Provides insights into the world of boys and offers guidance for parents to help their sons navigate social dynamics, relationships, and the challenges of adolescence.

College Psychology and Counselling Team

Pathways and Careers Information: Year 10 

Subject handbook open 

Current Year 10 students and families can now access information about Year 11 subjects for 2026, using this link: https://handbook.newman.wa.edu.au/ 

A reminder about the major subject selection event coming up in Term 2. It is expected that all students attend this event, accompanied by at least one parent or guardian. 

  • Tuesday 24 June 
  • Marist Auditorium, Newman College 
  • 5pm to 6pm: Careers and Year 11 Subjects Expo. 
  • 6pm to 6.45pm: Year 10 Family Information Evening. 

Year 10 subject selection research 

To assist in their subject selection, Year 10 students are currently undertaking a guided research process during EGT time. This process will answer most questions and provide a structure for subject selection. Please see below for a link to the Research Booklet: 

Year 10 Subject Selection Research Booklet 2025.docx 

Apprenticeship Opportunities 2025 

The March 2025 edition of the Apprenticeship Intake Guide has been published recently. This has details of dozens of apprenticeship opportunities with many major employers. You can access it here: Apprenticeship Intake Guide 2025 

Pathways and Careers Information: Year 11 

For students considering UniReady / UniPath in Year 12 

A reminder to students on the General Pathway who are considering UniReady / UniPath in Year 12 next year. It is expected that students from the General Pathway would have participated in extra-curricular activities such as work experience, VET Certificates, Leadership, Service, and/or College sport. General Pathway students who have not participated in any of these extra-curricular activities may not be eligible for UniReady / UniPath. 

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/ 

Apprenticeship Opportunities 2025 

The March 2025 edition of the Apprenticeship Intake Guide has been published recently. This has details of dozens of apprenticeship opportunities with many major employers. You can access it here: Apprenticeship Intake Guide 2025 

More mid-year TAFE courses open 

If you are on the General Pathway and would like to do some TAFE this year, there are some more courses just opened at Health Science Hub in Perth/Subiaco: 

  • Certificate III Health Services 
  • Certificate IV in Health and Nursing 
  • Certificate II Animal Care 
  • Certificate III Fitness 

Please contact Mr Farley if interested in applying.  

Pathways and Careers Information: Year 12 

University Early Offer Information 

Please see below for the latest available Early Offer information. 

Early Offers are now open, and all Year 12 students have been provided with information about how to access the TISC system and enter preferences. 

Students and families can find this information here: Applying for University for 2026 – Early Offers and TISC.pdf 

Curtin University Early Offers are available for ATAR and non-ATAR students. Must achieve WACE and meet any prerequisites. Submit your application via TISC, putting your Curtin Early Offer course as your first preference. Full information and list of eligible courses at: https://www.curtin.edu.au/study/undergraduate/early-offers/   
Edith Cowan University Full information and list of eligible courses at: https://www.ecu.edu.au/degrees/early-offer-program  Open to ATAR, Certificate IV, and UniReady students. Submit your Early Offer application by placing an eligible ECU course as your first TISC preference. First offers released to students on 2 September 2025.  
Murdoch University Must achieve WACE and meet any prerequisites. Early Offers for Certificate IV and UniReady/UniPath students will be conditional on passing. Submit your application via TISC, putting your desired Murdoch Early Offer course as your first preference.  
Notre Dame University Full information and list of eligible courses at: https://www.notredame.edu.au/study/applications-and-admissions/pathways/early-offer  Opens 1 May 2025. First offers released to students on 1 September 2025. Apply via the Notre Dame online portal or via TISC. Open to ATAR Pathway students only. All offers are conditional offers.  
University of WA Submit your application via TISC, putting your desired UWA Early Offer course as your first preference. Open to ATAR Pathway students only. Students can apply for an Early Offer for all degrees excluding Assured Pathways to Medicine, Dental Medicine, Podiatric Medicine or the 
Bachelor of Biomedicine (specialised). Students must satisfy UWA’s English requirements and any subject prerequisite requirements. Further information at: https://www.uwa.edu.au/study/how-to-apply/early-offers/FAQs   

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 2026 might find the following interesting: 

Apprenticeship Opportunities 2025 

The March 2025 edition of the Apprenticeship Intake Guide has been published recently. This has details of dozens of apprenticeship opportunities with many major employers. You can access it here: Apprenticeship Intake Guide 2025 

UPCOMING CAREERS EVENTS 

EVENT DATE LINK 
Newman College Careers Expo and Year 10 Parent Evening 24 June Marist Auditorium 3.30pm to 4.30pm: Yr 11/12 Careers Expo 5.00pm to 6.00pm: Yr 10 Careers & Subject Expo 6.00pm to 6.45pm: Yr 10 Family Info Session 
Early Offers and Entry Pathways Information Session (UWA) 25 June https://www.uwa.edu.au/study/events/2026-early-offers-and-entry-pathways-webinar 
Air Force Information Session 1 July https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/ece9a5a 
Defence Force Careers Session 10 July https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/blpncfs 
Defence Force – School Leavers Information 15 July https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/ycxyhu2 
Army Reserve Information Session 22 July https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/9xqbzod 
Defence Careers Information Session 29 July https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/events/events-detail/n84zlwx 
WAAPA Information Evening (ECU) 29 July https://www.trybooking.com/CZAMD 
Year 12 application support session (Murdoch) 29 July https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2025/07/29/general/year-12-university-application-support-session 
Open Day (Sound and Engineering College) 16 August https://sae.edu.au/event/open-day-perth/ 
Nursing Information Evening (Murdoch) 27 August https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2025/08/27/general/mu-open-nights–nursing 
Health and Education Information Evening (Murdoch) 2 September https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2025/09/02/general/mu-open-nights–health—education 
Science, IT, Engineering Information Evening (Murdoch) 3 September https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2025/09/03/general/mu-open-nights–sciences–information-technology–engineering—mathematics 
Business and Law Information Evening (Murdoch) 4 September https://www.murdoch.edu.au/events/all-events/2025/09/04/general/mu-open-night–business–law–humanities–arts—social-sciences  
Engineering Information Evening (ECU) 5 September https://www.trybooking.com/CYPND 
Entry pathways to Medicine (Notre Dame) 30 September https://events.nd.edu.au/doctor-of-medicine 
   

If you are thinking of attending a University Open Day, this blog might help you get the most out of it: https://infocus-careers.com.au/2025/02/07/year-12-how-to-approach-university-open-days-in-2022/  

From the Vice Principal – Term 2 Week 8

Online Safety / Keeping Safe

As our children continue to grow up in an increasingly digital world, it is more important than ever that we work together to ensure their online experiences are safe, respectful, and age-appropriate. While technology offers wonderful opportunities for learning and connection, it can also expose children to risks, including contact from strangers through seemingly innocent platforms like gaming modules.

We remind parents and carers to be extra vigilant when it comes to their child’s online interactions. This includes monitoring chat functions in games, setting parental controls, and having open conversations with your child about who they talk to and what they encounter online.

At Newman College, we take a proactive approach to digital safety. The Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum is taught across all year levels, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to stay safe, including in online environments. We also enhance this learning through initiatives such as the upcoming Constable Care Incursion for our Year 3–6 students, which includes key messages around personal safety and online behaviour.

For practical advice on how to support your child’s online safety at home, we recommend visiting the eSafety Commissioner’s website.

College Vision Documents

At Newman College, our Visions for Learning, Wellbeing and Mission articulate the heart of who we are and what we aspire to become as a Catholic school in the Marist tradition.

Together, these Vision statements shape our strategic direction and daily practice. They reflect our commitment to educating the whole person, mind, body and spirit, and inspire our community to grow in faith, flourish in wellbeing and strive for excellence in learning

We have recently reviewed and updated our Visions for Mission, Learning and Wellbeing. Families can access these documents via our website.

Lavalla Carpark Update

Over the past week, you may have noticed some clearing work in the Lavalla Carpark, which has created several additional parking bays in preparation for Term 3.

We have also been trialling various strategies to improve afternoon traffic flow and thank all parents/caregivers for their ongoing cooperation and understanding.

From next week, the following changes will be in place:

  • The Kiss N Ride will open at 3pm, when students are dismissed. If you arrive earlier, please park in a designated bay. We appreciate your cooperation if directed to do so.
  • If the Kiss N Ride lane is full, please either park in an available bay or complete a loop and re-enter once space becomes available.
  • It is critical that cars do not block the entry lane, as this prevents other vehicles from entering the car park.

To support a smooth and safe flow of traffic:

  • Please continue to clearly display your family name on your dashboard.
  • Encourage your children to move promptly into the car to allow for a quick and safe departure.
  • Remember that the car park is a strict 8km/h zone – please follow all posted signage and drive with caution.

Thank you for your continued patience and support as we work together to provide a safe and efficient pick-up experience for our community.

Transperth Service Changes

To address the late arrival of the school specials, Transperth will implement the following changes from 22 June 2025:

Route 422 

  • The service to Scarborough Beach Bus Station, continuing as School Special 717, will now depart Karrinyup Bus Station at 7.38am.   

 School Special 717  

  • School Special 717 will now depart Scarborough Beach Bus Station at 7.57am.  

College PhotosUniform Guidelines

As we continue College photos next week, it is a timely reminder for students and parents to ensure that our uniform guidelines are followed. This includes shirts tucked in, top buttons done up, ties worn properly to the top button, skirts worn at the correct length, and blazers worn to and from school. These expectations apply not only at the College but also in the wider community, including on public transport and when entering and leaving the College grounds.

We encourage parents and guardians to work in partnership with the College to help students uphold our uniform standards. Checking that your child is dressed appropriately before they leave the house or step out of the car will assist in our shared approach to maintaining high standards of uniform. Additionally, we appreciate any effort to reiterate the importance of adhering to uniform requirements and personal presentation at the College.

Please note that only students who meet all College uniform and personal presentation standards will be permitted to participate in College photos.

We thank you for your continued support.

Mr Michael Chiera

VICE PRINCIPAL

From the Principal – Term 2 Week 8

Today, the Newman College community celebrated Champagnat Day. The Feast of St Marcellin Champagnat falls on 6 June every year. As this date always coincides with the Senior examination period, this week is our first opportunity back together as a full College Community to give thanks for the work of St Marcellin Champagnat and recognise in our school the great blessing of being a Marist community. Mass was celebrated across three venues, and the students were brought to reflect on the significance of Marcellin’s life and messages. Following Mass, we acknowledged long-standing staff who have served the College for 10, 20 and 25 years. A great feature of the day is awarding the Champagnat Awards to a student in each year, from Kindergarten to Year 12, and to staff whose example in our community reflects the Marist Characteristics and the legacy of St Marcellin Champagnat.  It is one of the most enjoyable moments in the school year. Congratulations to the students and staff who were acknowledged.  Along with the award, a certificate is presented with a beautiful citation on the reverse. The citations for students and staff are the real ‘gold’. Each highlights the way in which these community members lead in that very Marist way ‘Strong Minds, Gentle Hearts’.

A happy Feast of St Marcellin to us all!  Let us pray to Mary to know Jesus, remembering St Marcellin Champagnat’s words, “I can’t meet a young person without telling them how much God loves them. 

2025 Champagnat Award Winners

Year level Student 
Kindy Ruby Pember 
Pre-Primary Aurora Menzies 
Year 1 Caine Gallagher 
Year 2 Pia Martinovich 
Year 3   Finley Shephard 
Year 4   Mila Harris 
Year 5   Valentina Polizzi 
Year 6   Kyle Cowland 
Year 7   Samantha Fowler 
Year 8   Isla Kalebic 
Year 9   Angus Timcke 
Year 10   Sunny Ebert 
Year 11   Maya McIntyre-Llewellyn 
Year 12   Charlie Cossom 
Staff – Primary Lara Gray 
Staff – Secondary Anna Owen 
Staff – PK-12 Kate Robartson 

Connection in Faith 

Last Sunday, the Church celebrated Trinity Sunday. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are celebrated as one essence – this mystery of God: The Father’s love for his son, the son’s immense love for each one of us that he dies on a cross, and the Holy Spirit – the love and essence of God that he has left us through, with and in the world. The act of the Sign of the Cross is a recognition of this mystery and connection. We tap our forehead in recognition of God the Father, our hand placed on our chest is symbolic of the love of Jesus for us and touching each shoulder is our desire for the Holy Spirit to energise and guide our good works. It is a simple action where we make connection with God in what can be a pause through the busyness of the day.  

Connection in Community 

Tonight, we host the Newman College Community Quiz Night. Our Newman Parent Forum were instrumental in returning a great community night in the Quiz last year, and we are proud to host tonight’s fun gathering. Along with developing connections and relationships, we gather tonight in support of the Marist Solidarity Australia and Youth Focus. All funds raised will go to these two groups. Thank you to Jenni Vile, Community Relations, Karla Nessfield-Thomas, Events Manager, Wes Carren-Auditorium Technician, for their assistance in organising the event, the many parents and businesses who have donated items for the raffle draws, prizes and silent auction, and to those who have volunteered their time for set up and pack up and, staff member, Mr Matthew Box for his role as MC and Quiz Master.  Stay tuned for another great community event, which is planned around the Performing Arts in late Term 3. 

Mr Andrew Watson

PRINCIPAL

Primary Update – Term 2 Week 8

4 Red Assembly

Last week, 4 Red led a wonderful assembly all about persistence. They shared stories of famous people who didn’t give up, even when things were hard.

We heard how J.K. Rowling was turned down by 12 publishers before Harry Potter became a huge success. Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Michael Jordan was cut from his school basketball team, but kept trying and became a star. Taylor Swift didn’t let early knockbacks stop her from chasing her music dreams.

4 Red reminded us that persistence is important for everyone, not just the famous. It helps us keep going when learning is tricky or when we face challenges.

Buddy Day

Today, we celebrated both Champagnat Day and Buddy Day, a significant day made even more special by welcoming our K–2 students to the Lavalla Campus, as we continue our journey towards becoming one community.

Despite the wet weather, spirits were high as our youngest students took part in an outdoor walk around the new building. This gave them a first glimpse of their future surroundings and, most excitingly, their new playgrounds! Thanks to gumboots and rain jackets, the rain became part of the adventure, with many students eagerly putting puddles to the test.

PK-2 Build Update

We are thrilled to be counting down the final weeks to the opening of our brand-new PK–2 building. The excitement is building across our community as we move closer to this exciting milestone.

This week, the campus has been buzzing with activity as delivery trucks arrived daily, bringing in beautiful new furniture and resources to help bring the learning spaces to life. It’s been wonderful to see the vision for our early years environment coming together, piece by piece.

We cannot wait to welcome our PK–2 students and families to the Churchlands site at the beginning of Term 3. We look forward to sharing this next chapter with you and to seeing our youngest learners thrive in their inspiring new space.

To help your child feel confident and prepared for the upcoming move to the Churchlands campus, we encourage you to read through this social story together. It’s designed to gently introduce the new environment, routines, and spaces in a way that supports a smooth and positive transition.

Just click here.

New finish time for PK and K from Term 3

To help ease traffic congestion and ensure there is adequate parking for all families during afternoon pick-up, we will be introducing a new home time for our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students from the beginning of Term 3.

Starting in Term 3, dismissal for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten will be at 2:45pm. This small adjustment will help stagger pick-up times across the school, making the process smoother and safer for everyone.

We appreciate your support and understanding as we make this change to improve the overall experience for our families and to support the safe and efficient operation as we move to being one campus, one community.

Pupil Free Day PK-2 – Friday 4 July

To facilitate the setup of classrooms and unpacking of boxes in readiness for the start of Term 3, Friday 4 July will be a Pupil Free Day for all PK-2 students. OSH Club is running a vacation care day on this day. To book your child into OSH Club on this day, please contact OSH Club directly https://www.oshclub.com.au/find-us/newman-college/