On Tuesday of Week 9, the Discovery Festival will bring experiential learning to life for our Years 7-9 students. This exciting learning experience aligns with the College’s Vision for Learning and, at the heart of the festival, are experiential activities that foster Challenge, Create, Celebrate, and Collaborate—the four pillars of the College’s Vision.
Challenge: Students are invited to step outside their comfort zones, engage in problem-solving tasks like the Amazing Race and Escape Rooms, and build resilience through activities that require critical thinking, strategy, and perseverance.
Create: Hands-on sessions such as macramé, pizza cooking, and crochet give students opportunities to use their creativity and explore artistic expression. By encouraging experimentation and imaginative thinking, the festival nurtures a growth mindset and a love for innovation.
Celebrate: Through this festival, students can celebrate their strengths and achievements by engaging in activities that showcase individual skills and allow for personal accomplishments. Each challenge provides moments for students to reflect on their growth, while also celebrating their contributions to their teams.
Collaborate: The festival emphasises teamwork and social connection through group-based activities like table tennis, mountain biking, and science workshops. Working with their peers encourages students to develop communication skills, foster inclusivity, and appreciate the value of different perspectives.
The Discovery Festival reinforces the College’s commitment to creating curious, confident, and capable lifelong learners who Shine Through Discovery. The event provides a living example of the Vision for Learning, equipping students with the skills, confidence, and connections that will support them academically and socially throughout their journey at Newman College and beyond.
We thank the dedicated Discovery Festival Team, who have spent the last five months preparing this exceptional experience. Their hard work and commitment to fostering a vibrant learning environment creates meaningful opportunity for our students to grow, connect, and Shine.
Next Friday 22 November, our Secondary students will come together to celebrate outstanding achievements across the semester. The assembly will honour students’ accomplishments in academics, sports, and leadership, including Academic Excellence and Subject Awards, Sporting Awards, and the Game Changers Awards. We will introduce our Student Guild Representatives for 2025, and acknowledge the contributions of departing staff members. This event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the dedication and spirit within our College community.
We look forward to sharing this special event with our students, parents and staff.
Further details can be found in the Secondary section of this newsletter.
Year 6 Graduation
Newman College is excited to celebrate the achievements of our Year 6 students as they complete their primary years and prepare for the next stage of their journey. The Year 6 Graduation Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, 3 December 2024, from 5 – 7pm, beginning with a Mass in the Champagnat Chapel, followed by an Awards Ceremony in the Marist Auditorium. This special event will honour the accomplishments of our graduating students, and we look forward to celebrating with them and their families.
Further details on this event can be found in the Primary section of this newsletter.
Philippines Immersion
Next Saturday morning, 23 November, our Year 11 Philippines Immersion will begin, with sixteen students and three staff departing Perth for Manila. They will be joined by five students and a staff member from St Joseph’s School, Northam, embarking together on a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in another culture and bring to life our vision of being “good Christians and good citizens.”
During the trip, students will visit four key organisations, including a local PK–12 Marist College similar to our own, where they will have the chance to listen, learn, and connect with Filipino students their age. They will also spend time at the Marist Asia Pacific Centre, where young brothers undergo formation to become Marist Brothers. Additionally, students will visit agencies that support vulnerable children, including those who have experienced abuse or face unstable family situations that lead them to live on the streets.
Our hope is that this experience inspires students to grow in their heart for service, returning with a deeper awareness of God’s presence, even in challenging circumstances. We wish our students and staff a meaningful journey and look forward to hearing about their experiences upon their return.
Reports
Primary reports will be available through SEQTA Engage after Monday 2 December.
Secondary reports will be available through SEQTA Engage after Friday 6 December.
Should your child not be returning to Newman College in 2025, we remind parents of the requirement to download all reports from SEQTA Engage by 31 December. After this time, the student record is archived.
On Tuesday, 12 November, our Year 10 students enjoyed an unforgettable river cruise departing from Perth’s Barrack Street. The boat set off along the beautiful Swan River, basking under the last layers of sunlight, creating the perfect backdrop for an evening filled with fun, friendship, and celebration.
Students arrived in creative costumes that added to the night’s lively atmosphere. Among the crowd we saw Ninja Turtles, pirates, superheroes, basketball players, and even the iconic Mean Girls. Not to be outdone, our teachers embraced the fun and dressed in classic Harry Potter-themed attire, blending in with the festive spirit.
With music filling the air and laughter all around, students danced the night away, creating memories they will carry long after this school year. Special thanks go to our Pastoral Care Group teachers for their support, making the night both safe and enjoyable, and to all staff who attended. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Lara Ognenis, Leader of Wellbeing Year 10, for her organisation of the evening and for her efforts in making this event such a success for all who attended.
Years 7-11 Annual Awards Assembly – Friday 22 November
Newman College’s Annual Awards Assembly will be held in the Auditorium and College Gymnasium on Friday 22 November commencing at approximately 8.50am. Our final assembly on Marcellin Campus allows us to acknowledge the academic and sporting achievements this year, recognise our Gamechangers participants and introduce our 2025 Guild Representatives to the College Community. We are in the process of finalising our award winners. Students and families will be notified on Monday 18 November if they are receiving an award. We ask families to RSVP to the event indicating their attendance at this event. Please note that whilst a live feed will allow us to engage in and watch the event from either venue, our Year 10 and Year 11s will be presented with their awards in the Auditorium and our Year 7s, 8s and 9s will be presented with their awards in the Gym. Following the event, light refreshments will be served in the Auditorium Foyer and parents/guardians and award winners are invited to join us.
Year 8 Parent Information Evening – Tuesday 26 November
On Tuesday 26 November, we will be sharing information about the implementation of the Rite Journey program with our Year 9 2025 students. All Year 8 families are asked to attend. Please click here to review communication that was sent out recently for more details.
Student Diaries 2025
In 2025, the College will only be providing our new Year 7 students with a Student College Diary. The use of diaries will be compulsory for all Year 7 students.
For all Years 8 – 12, there is an option to purchase a 2025 Student College Diary through the book list. Based on student feedback and observation, we are aware that students are opting for electronic means to keep themselves organised. We will be working with your child in early 2025 as to how to use these electronic means to keep them organised such as: widgets, OneNote, Outlook etc. Please be aware that the College will have spare diaries should your child in Years 8-12 wish to purchase one of the College-specific diaries.
Summer STEM Program at ECU
Edith Cowan University are running a Summer of STEM program at their Joondalup Campus from 22-24 January 2025. This three-day program provides students who have an interest in STEM with an opportunity to engage in a variety of science and math activities. The program is for students 14 years and older. For more information or to book click here.
Recognition of State Representation
Congratulations to Bastian Domínguez (Year 9) who has been selected again to represent WA at the Australian Futsal Nationals 2025 which will be played in January in Melbourne.
State Representation is an honour and an important stepping stone in an athlete’s journey. We commend Bastian for his dedication and commitment to his sport.
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 10
Subject Selection for Year 11, 2025
Thank you to all families who participated in the subject selection process for Year 11, 2025. The College is currently finalising missing selections and constructing the timetable for 2025.
In the near future, Year 10 students (and families) will be advised of their allocated subjects for 2025. This will allow sufficient time for purchase of the relevant books and class materials.
VET Certificates (TAFE Courses) and Work Experience for 2025
Applications for VET Certificates for 2025 have now closed. Students will be notified of the outcome of their application in the coming weeks.
Applications for Work Experience for 2025 are now open, and information regarding this has been sent to students.
Pathways and Careers Information: Year 11
WACE (Secondary Graduation) Requirements
In Year 11 and 12, students are progressing towards their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), otherwise known as their secondary graduation.
In order to achieve their WACE, students need to meet certain academic targets across Year 11 and 12. These are:
Demonstrate the minimum standard of literacy and numeracy (either in Year 9 NAPLAN or in Year 10-12 OLNA).
Be enrolled in English / Literature in Year 11 and 12.
Be enrolled in at least 1 ‘List B’ (Maths / Science / Sport / Technology) subject.
Achieve at least 14 C grades, with at least 6 C grades in Year 12 subjects.
Enrolling in Notre Dame UniPath for 2025
The Notre Dame UniPath program is now open for applications for 2025. Please see below a summary of the UniPath and UniReady Programs:
UniReady
UniPath
Outcome
70 ATAR
70 ATAR
Valid for
All WA Universities (but to enter UWA you need 65% in UniReady)
Curtin, ECU, Murdoch, Notre Dame.
Structure
One of your 6 school subjects in Year 12. Taught here at Newman, by a teacher, in a classroom each day.
Attend Notre Dame Fremantle campus one day per week, for 12 weeks.
How to apply
Select UniReady as one of your Year 12 subjects next year. (Or tell me if you’d like to enter)
See below.
If you would like to enrol in UniPath for next year, you can now apply for entry to this program.
If it looks right for you, see the “How To Apply” section for the process.
If you are already enrolled in UniReady but decide to switch to UniPath, please let me know.
For Students Thinking of Attending University
TISC has a series of videos explaining things like ATAR calculation, prerequisite subjects, scaling, and preferences. You can find them here: https://www.tisc.edu.au/static/guide/video.tisc
In Year 11 and 12, students are progressing towards their Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), otherwise known as their secondary graduation.
In order to achieve their WACE, students need to meet certain academic targets across Year 11 and 12. These are:
Demonstrate the minimum standard of literacy and numeracy (either in Year 9 NAPLAN or in Year 10-12 OLNA).
Be enrolled in English / Literature in Year 11 and 12.
Be enrolled in at least 1 ‘List B’ (Maths / Science / Sport / Technology) subject.
Achieve at least 14 C grades, with at least 6 C grades in Year 12 subjects.
Gap Year Information
Students interested in taking a gap year in 2025 might find the following interesting:
The 2024 edition of the Apprentice Intake Guide has now been published. This guide is a large listing of many different apprenticeship opportunities available.
TISC has a series of videos explaining things like ATAR calculation, prerequisite subjects, scaling, and preferences. You can find them here: https://www.tisc.edu.au/static/guide/video.tisc
As I write a summary of a few key events over the past few weeks, I find myself reflecting on the ways Marist Family Spirit is expressed in our community.
November
In the last edition of the newsletter, I highlighted the importance of November in the Church calendar. Starting with All Saints and All Souls days, November is the month to remember. In each of our Marian, Lavalla and Marcellin settings, we recognised Remembrance Day with assemblies, prayers and laying of wreaths on Monday 11 November. Along with this solemn time, we have held in our prayers and thoughts all members of the Newman College community who have passed away.
A beautiful part of our remembrance is the Memorial Garden which sits alongside the Champagnat Chapel. During the year, various seasonal flowers, including roses, are in bloom which are memorials to members of our College community who have passed away during their time at the College. A lovely plaque sits in front of each rose and reminds us of the name and life of these dearly held people. As November progresses, let us take the time to remember all in our families who have passed away.
Primary Music Concerts
This week, we have been entertained by the talented students in Primary who are learning musical instruments or involved in singing. Each of the performances have been greatly supported by proud parents and family members in the audience and have been a joy to watch. Thanks to Ms Laura van Rijn with the assistance of Ms Selena Barrett and the Music Tutors.
Year 5 Leadership Letters and Speeches
Following the recent, very successful Leadership Day, the Year 5 students have been busy discerning their part in leading Primary during 2025. I have received wonderful letters written to me by Year 5 students keen to be a part of the leadership group for 2025 and showing the desire to strengthen the Primary family we have at Newman College. Year 5s also gave speeches to staff and students this week outlining their desire to serve the College and outline a legacy of commitment. Well done, Year 5! In true Marist spirit, you have embraced the duty of leadership.
Year 7 2025 Secondary Experience
Last week, we hosted our Year 7 2025 students and their parents in an after-school experience of the Marcellin Campus. The students and parents met with the Pastoral Care Group teachers and followed a self-guide familiarisation tour around the campus, stopping to talk with various speciality area staff along the way. We were very pleased to have representatives from the eight Newman Sports Association clubs on hand to chat to interested parents and students.
The feedback we have received from our existing students and parents when they went through transition to secondary very much shaped the nature of this event. Both our incoming Year 7 parents and the students have each had two events in recent months to assist the transition into Secondary.
Alumni Reunions
Family Spirit does not cease when formal schooling ends. We warmly welcomed back two Alumni year groups for milestone celebrations during the past weeks. The Class of 1994 celebrated 30 years since graduation with a well-attended event in the John Henry Newman Hub. Alongside our Alumni Team were Mr Bern Willett, Mrs Jenny Lindsay and Mr Mike Diamond, three faces the Class of 1994 knew so well. These staff members led the tour of the College, and our past students had a great time reminiscing. Br Terry Orrell was their Principal and sent his best wishes to the group as he was unable to attend.
A week later the Marist Class of 1974 were in the Hub for their 50th reunion. They were joined by a small group of students from Brigidine College from the Class of 1974, as the connection between the two schools was so strong. Again, these men and women had a great time catching up and attentively listening to the development of the College on their tour of the facilities. They had a video message played to them from their Principal of the day, Br Tim McDonald who now lives in the United States.
In these two reunions are a number of current parents, grandparents and past parents of our Newman-Marist-Brigidine network.
School Fee Reminder
Families are reminded that fees and music accounts are to be finalised by 30 November 2024. Parents and guardians are encouraged to process any outstanding monies as soon as possible. If there are any issues, please contact fees@newman.wa.edu.au.
As part of our Year 7 2025 Transition Process, we invite our Year 6 students and their families to our Secondary Campus Experience on Tuesday, 5 November. The afternoon provides an opportunity for families to connect, share reflections from the recent Orientation Day, and further explore the Marcellin Campus.
Beginning at 3:30pm in Founders’ Court, families can enjoy refreshments before hearing a welcome from the College Principal. Students and parents will then have the chance to meet with Pastoral Care Group teachers, explore key areas of the campus, and engage with staff and student leaders who will play an integral role in their journey.
We look forward to welcoming you to Newman College and supporting your family in preparing for a successful start to secondary school.
Remembrance Day Services
On Remembrance Day, the Newman College community will come together at our respective campuses to honour those who have served in times of war and conflict. As students gather, we reflect not only on past sacrifices but also on the importance of peace in light of ongoing conflicts around the world. From the war in Ukraine to the hostilities in the Middle East, recent events remind us of the preciousness of peace and the profound impact of war on countless lives.
This Remembrance Day, we stand in solidarity with all affected by conflict, both past and present. As we observe moments of silence and reflection, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting compassion and understanding within our own community.
Road Safety Reminder
As we approach the end of the year, it is easy to let road safety awareness slip. We ask everyone in our school community to stay vigilant, especially during peak traffic times in the mornings and afternoons. Students are reminded to cross roads carefully and take care when getting in and out of cars.
To help keep our school zones safe, please remember:
Drive slowly: Stick to the 40km/h limit (10km/h in school grounds)
Stay alert: Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers, and pay attention to crossings.
Avoid complex manoeuvres: U-turns, three-point turns, and similar actions disrupt traffic flow and can be dangerous.
Give way to pedestrians: Always give way to pedestrians, especially at driveways.
Follow crossing supervisors: Adhere to the guidance of crossing supervisors at all supervised crossings.
Let’s work together to keep all members of our community safe.
Newman Parents Forum – Monday 4 November 6pm
All Newman parents and guardians are invited to attend the Newman Parents Forum next Monday at 6pm in the John Henry Newman Learning Hub. This event provides an opportunity to hear important updates on a range of school-related topics and engage with the College community. The agenda is as follows:
Strategic Plan 2025/2027
Student Wellbeing and Formation: Equip, Guide, Thrive Secondary Program
Primary Build Update
Bus Services
Parent Engagement Events in 2025
2025 NPF Proposed Meeting Dates
We look forward to seeing you there! If you are unable to make it in person please join us online using the following link – Newman Parents Forum TEAMS
Uniform Update: Stock Arrivals, Discounts, and Plans for 2025
With the introduction of the new skirts for secondary and guilds for primary, there are a number of updates regarding uniform availability, pricing adjustments, and what you can expect in the coming months at the Newman College Uniform Shop.
New Arrivals
We recently received a shipment of new skirts and skorts, and we are anticipating the arrival of girls’ trousers very soon. These are in the new grey colour.
The new skirts and skorts will be available for sale or order by the new Year 7 students at their upcoming orientation session, while Year 6 students from Newman College can also shop from our discounted old skirt selection as they prepare for secondary school.
Discounted Pricing on Select Items
We are offering substantial discounts on select items:
Faction Polos are now available for $15
Old Colour Skirts, Skorts, and Trousers are now $45
These discounts apply to old stock items as we transition to the updated uniform. Please note that these discounted items can only be worn until the end of 2026.
Guild Shirt Update
Some of the smaller sizes in guild shirts are currently in high demand. Orders have been placed for these sizes, and we expect their arrival in late November.
2025 Uniform
Looking ahead to the 2025 school year, we are expecting to have stock of the bulk of uniform items in January, in time for Term 1. We look forward to welcoming you to the Uniform Shop soon and helping you with your uniform needs as we transition to the 2025 school year!
