From the Vice Principal Term 3 Week 4
Assumption Day Mass, Fete and Buddy Day
Next Thursday, 15 August, we celebrate Assumption Day, a significant event in our College calendar. This special day will be marked by various activities, including masses, a fete, and a series of exciting festivities including staff versus student sports, wellbeing and ‘buddy’ activities.
Assumption Day commemorates the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven, a key feast day in the Catholic Church. This event is particularly important to us as a Marist school, given our deep connection to Mary, the mother of Jesus, who is central to our faith and tradition.
In the Marist tradition, Mary is revered not only as the mother of Jesus but also as a model of faith, humility, and service. Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers, envisioned a community that embodies Mary’s virtues, fostering a spirit of family, simplicity, and love. Assumption Day provides us with an opportunity to reflect on these values and renew our commitment to living them out in our daily lives.
For more information about the schedule and logistics for the day, please click here. Students will need to purchase tickets to access the food, drink, and activities at the Fete. These tickets can be purchased here.
We look forward to a joyous and meaningful celebration.
Newman Parents Forum
On Monday 19 August, we will have our Term 3 Newman Parents Forum gathering in the John Henry Newman Hub from 6-7pm. Some topics covered include:
- Marist Schools Australia Cyclic Inquiry Update
- Proposed Road
- Building Update
- New AI Endorsed Program (developed by Beth Murphy, Deputy Principal PK-12 Teaching and Learning)
- Uniform Minor changes Update
We warmly invite all parents to join us for the evening.
Student Driver Safety
The safety of our community is always our top priority. We kindly remind all students driving to school to exercise caution on the roads, especially in wet weather, which can increase risks. Please encourage your child to be extra vigilant during these conditions.
We also want to remind parents that it is mandatory for student drivers to complete the ‘Permission to Park’ form. This form is crucial for registering vehicles with the school and ensuring that parental permission is obtained for any passengers. Instructions for completing the form have been shared with students via Teams.
We request that parents confirm their child has submitted the form, which requires a parent or guardian’s signature. Your cooperation is essential in helping us maintain a safe and organised environment for all members of our College community.
Thank you for your continued support.
Year 11 Leadership Workshops
Mr Andrew Watson and I had the pleasure of leading the final Leadership Workshop for our aspiring Year 11 leaders yesterday. During the session, we explored the concept of legacy, with students considering what initiatives they would implement if they were Principal for a day. The workshop concluded with groups collaborating on a mission statement for their Year 12, 2025 cohort. Earlier sessions on Christ-centered Leadership, Values, and Personality and Leadership Styles were well-received and have equipped these outstanding students for their leadership roles in 2025.
We extend special thanks to Mr Michael Van Der Heever, Leadership Coordinator, and Mr David Husband, Leader of Wellbeing, for coordinating the program. We also appreciate the contributions of our workshop presenters – Mr Stuart McClorey, Mrs Sarah Ellan, Mr Michael Van Der Heever, Mrs Beth Murphy, and Mr Andrew Watson.
A reminder to Year 11 students: please submit your Year 12, 2025 Leadership Applications by Friday, 9 August.