From the Principal

Mr David Sullivan
Principal

Dear Parents/Carers and Students,

As we conclude another action packed term, I take great pride in reflecting on the remarkable dedication, community spirit and academic excellence displayed across our school. From milestone achievements in national assessments to ongoing social justice endeavors and significant College events, our community continues to flourish.

Our commitment to educational rigor and standard-setting teaching practices has yielded outstanding achievements this year.

• Outstanding NAPLAN Achievement: I am thrilled to share our latest NAPLAN results, which highlight fantastic performances across all tested domains. These results place our school in elite company across the Sydney Archdiocese as well as among schools nationally. This achievement reflects the determination of our students and the relentless drive of our teaching staff. I’ve included the Year 7 and 9 headline data comparisons in the tables below.

NAPLAN Data – Year 9 2027

School Mean = Marist College Eastwood
System Mean = Sydney Catholic Schools
State Mean = all NSW schools
SSSG Mean = Statistically Similar Schools Group

NAPLAN Data – Year 7 2027

School Mean = Marist College Eastwood
System Mean = Sydney Catholic Schools
State Mean = all NSW schools
SSSG Mean = Statistically Similar Schools Group

• Staff Professional Learning: To ensure our educators continue delivering the highest standard of teaching, our staff have engaged in targeted professional learning programs this term. These sessions focus on evidence-based pedagogical strategies, data-informed practice and dynamic classroom engagement to maximise student growth. Our teachers truly role model life-long learning as they continue to strive to teach our boys to the best of their ability.
• Year 11 & Year 12 Major Exam Blocks: Both our Year 11 and Year 12 cohorts have demonstrated exemplary focus during their major examination blocks. Year 12 undertook their Trial HSC and also completed their HSC Major Projects and Performances. And Year 11 students have navigated their preliminary final assessments with maturity, laying a strong foundation for their upcoming HSC journey.

As our Year 12 students reach the final stretch of their secondary education, we surround them with our full support and prayers.

• Graduation & Final HSC Preparation: Year 12 students are currently finalising their notes and practice papers as they prepare for the HSC written examinations (taking place in October and November, 2026). We celebrated their culmination of thirteen years of schooling at their Graduation ceremony this week and will again no doubt applaud their success when the HSC results are published in December.
  

• Community Flower Distribution: In a heart-warming tradition, Year 12 students recently participated in the annual flower distribution to our local community. We received an overwhelming volume of glowing feedback from local residents and business owners expressing their heartfelt gratitude for our students’ warmth, manners and community presence.

Living out our core values through active service and genuine leadership remains a pillar of our school culture.

• Student Leadership Announcements: We recently announced our incoming Student Leadership Team for the upcoming academic year. Congratulations to our newly appointed leaders – we are confident they will serve their peers with integrity, empathy and vision. We will have their formal induction in Term 4.

• Social Justice Initiatives: Our students have actively engaged in meaningful outreach this term. Through our R U OK? Day awareness activities, students championed mental health and open dialogue. Furthermore, our continuous commitment to the Vinnies Van initiative has allowed students and staff to offer direct support and comfort to those experiencing homelessness and hardship in our local region.

• Malloy Cup & Digital Updates: House spirit has reached new heights during our recent Malloy Cup assembly and presentation. To maintain momentum and foster healthy competition, we have installed new digital signage in Champagnat Court to regular updates on House Cup point standings. Congratulations to our 2026 champions Leopold!

• Parent & Community Group (PCG) Support: A sincere thank you to our hardworking Parent and Community Group (PCG) for their fundraising initiatives. Thanks to their efforts, new representative sports uniforms have been ordered and we anticipate their arrival early next term.

• 90th Anniversary Preparations: Looking ahead, momentum is building as we prepare to celebrate our 90th Anniversary in 2027. Planning is underway for a series of commemorative events to mark nine decades of educational excellence and community history.

Behind the scenes, significant effort continues regarding the air conditioning installation project for the Montagne Centre. While major infrastructure updates require complex coordination, our team is actively collaborating with:

1. Consulting Engineers: Finalising structural, mechanical and electrical airflow designs to ensure optimal cooling capacity for large gatherings.
2. Sydney Catholic Schools office: Managing budget allocations, tender reviews, etc.

We appreciate the community’s ongoing patience as we navigate these regulatory and technical processes to deliver a comfortable learning and gathering space for our students and guests. I recognise that there is little to show in terms of the extraordinary amount of work that has gone on and will continue to happen behind the scenes in regards to this matter, however I assure you there is a team of people working tirelessly to navigate this challenge.

Thank you to all our parents, staff and students for your ongoing partnership, generosity and dedication to our school community. Have a safe and happy break and I look forward to the boys returning in Term 4 in their summer uniforms and ready to work to the best of their ability for the remainder of the year.

Respice Finem

From the Assistant Principal

Mrs Melinda Alvarez
Assistant Principal

As the school year progresses, recent weeks have provided many opportunities to celebrate the achievements, traditions and strong community spirit that define our College.

A significant highlight was the graduation of our Year 12 students. Graduation marks the culmination of many years of learning, growth and personal development. It was a special occasion for students, families and staff to reflect on the contributions the graduating class has made to College life and to celebrate the young men they have become. We wish them every success as they begin the next chapter of their journey and carry forward the values and friendships formed during their time at the College.

Prior to graduation, the Year 12 Graduation Mass provided an opportunity for students, families and staff to gather in prayer and thanksgiving. The celebration recognised the importance of faith, service and community in the lives of our students and offered a meaningful reflection on their years at the College.

The Year 12 Formal was another memorable occasion, allowing students to celebrate together and mark the conclusion of their secondary schooling. It was a wonderful evening of friendship, gratitude and shared memories that will remain with them long after they leave our gates.

Our community also came together for the Father’s Day Mass and Breakfast, a valued College tradition. The event provided an opportunity to acknowledge and thank fathers, grandfathers and father figures for the support, guidance and encouragement they provide to our students. The strong attendance reflected the importance of family partnerships in the life of the College.

We were also pleased to welcome prospective students and families for the Year 7 2027 Testing Day. The enthusiasm displayed by these young students was encouraging and we look forward to supporting them as they begin their journey towards joining our College community.

The term concluded with the Malloy Cup celebrations, recognising students who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, participation and achievement across a wide range of College activities. Alongside these celebrations, we have enjoyed considerable success in sport, with students representing the College with distinction, determination and sportsmanship. These achievements are a testament to the dedication of our students, staff and coaches and continue to strengthen the proud traditions of our College.

From the Religious Coordinator

Mr Colm McCaughan
RE Coordinator

Term 3 is always the busiest period in the RE Curriculum Faculty, with the two major exam blocks, the Trial HSC and the Year 11 Preliminary Examinations, dominating the landscape and often flooding the team with essays. Studies of Religion remains a content‑heavy course, requiring students not only to recall beliefs and practices across various faith traditions, but also to analyse how these religions continue to shape the daily lives of adherents. The boys worked diligently throughout the term, performed admirably and now look toward the HSC with hopes of further improvement.

Amidst the academic demands, the term also offered moments of genuine evangelisation. Thirteen boys received Sacraments, including a record nine Baptisms. Those baptised on 20 August at St Kevin’s parish by Fr Greg Morgan (Parish Priest of St Charles, Ryde) were: Hung Thang Pham (12), Kaiden Yiu (12), Asher Saini (10), Ross Zhang (10), Kai Guo (10), Ethan Yi (10), Charlie Cox (9), Liam Cheng (8), and Alfie Cox (7). Ryan Shen (10), Kieran Lee (10), Jack Le Fevre (8) and Samuel Ryan (7) also received the Sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation at this combined Mass with Holy Cross College, Ryde and Marist Sisters College, Woolwich. As REC, witnessing moments like these truly captures the heart of the role.

Year 12’s Reflection Day on 19 August centred on the theme “A Future Full of Hope.”  The boys were invited to look back on their journey at the College and recognise how far they have come. They were encouraged to lean on their faith as a source of hope, something that will guide them as they continue striving to be Marist Men: Good Christians and Good Citizens.

This reflection prepared them beautifully for their Graduation Mass and Ceremony on 22 September, where they were sent forth into the world, equipped not only with an outstanding education but also with a quiet, steady faith that will bring hope to themselves and others. The most moving moment of the Mass, for me, is always the Candle Ceremony, led this year by College Captain William Della Vedova. It stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring bonds of friendship and community formed at the College and of the call to carry the light of Christ into the world.

It was also a significant term for Mr Daniel Viana, our Youth Ministry Coordinator, who led more than fifty Year 10 students to the 10:10 Conference at Good Samaritan Catholic College, Hinchinbrook. The boys engaged in meaningful discussions about right relationship with God and with one another and many described the day as both informative and life‑shaping. He also organised the Marist Connect night which was an excellent way for our senior boys to bond with other Marist schools and grow in their faith.

In all, it has been a deeply rewarding term. May God continue to bless our efforts.

Year 7

Mr Stephen Flew
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 7

The past six months have been a particularly busy and rewarding period for Year 7.  Students commenced Term 2 with a three day camp at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation in Narrabeen, where they participated in abseiling, kayaking, bushwalking and a variety of other activities designed to strengthen peer connections and build resilience.

At the end of Term 2, Year 7 engaged in a Drama incursion, workshopping dramatic techniques linked to their study of the novel Detention. Students also attended an excursion to Sydney Zoo in Bungarribee to deepen their understanding of cells and animal classification.

Across Terms 2 and 3, Year 7 students represented the College in a broad range of sports and extracurricular activities, including Soccer, AFL, Hockey, Rugby 7s, Chess and Debating. It has been encouraging to see such strong levels of participation and enthusiasm for the opportunities available at the College.

During Pastoral Care sessions, Year 7 marked RUOK? Day by wearing yellow and taking time to check in on their mates. They also completed the election of student leaders for next year, who will be formally acknowledged at an assembly next term. We look forward to seeing these students exemplify what it means to be a Marist.

Year 8

Mr Stephen McNamara
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 8

It has been another busy term, marked by a wide variety of challenging learning tasks, thoughtful pastoral development and tightly contested sporting events.

Year 8 piloted the Anti Bullying presentation as a part of our whole school commitment to ensuring that Marist College Eastwood remains an inclusive and safe environment. The presenter, Natalie Vella from The Social Compass, was extremely complimentary about the awareness and responsiveness demonstrated by our Year 8 cohort which was wonderful feedback to have acknowledged.

The presentation complemented the work undertaken during Pastoral lessons, where students engaged with material from The Resilience Project, focusing on building awareness and developing skills to navigate life’s challenges. The program also involved Vertical sessions, during which senior students led discussions and activities in House based groups.

In the last of these, students voted for their Homeroom Leaders for Year 9.  These leaders will be presented at a College Assembly next term. The process was very well received and strongly supported, reflecting the emerging maturity of our Year 8 students – something to be genuinely applauded.

A particularly meaningful moment in the religious life of the College occurred when Jack Le Fevre and Liam Cheng received Sacraments as a part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults on 20 August at St Kevin’s. They joined 25 young people from our school, Marist Sisters College Woolwich and Holy Cross College Ryde in this significant step into the Catholic tradition.

Representative sporting involvement was impressive throughout the team, with students competing successfully in the Baseball and Tennis Gala Days, as well as the SCS Rugby 7’s, AFL and 7 A Side Football seasons. Notably, the AFL squad, coached by Ms Stern, were crowned Junior AFL Conference 2 winners, progressing to the SCS Conference Championships.

Several students, including one of the members of Year 8, proudly represented himself and the College at the NSWCCC Athletics Carnival. It was a highly engaged and competitive term, with achievements shared across the cohort. A special congratulations to Ethan Glavin, who was named as Junior Sportsman of the Year at the Malloy Cup, an outstanding accomplishment.

Another major highlight was the determined manner in which students approached their first Assessment Tasks of Semester 2, working to produce well organised responses and striving for consistent grades across all attitudes to learning.  Strong foundations have beelaid for positive Semester 2 reports and it is is now up to students to finish confidently in Term 4.   

Best wishes for a safe and well deserved term break!

Year 9

Mr Joshua Chasney
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 9

As we conclude another successful term, it is timely to reflect on the many achievements and experiences that have shaped our Year 9 cohort throughout the year. Over the past two terms, our students have continued to demonstrate a strong commitment to their learning, embracing opportunities to challenge themselves both inside and outside the classroom.

A particular highlight was the Year 9 Reflection Day, during which students engaged in meaningful discussions and presentations as part of the Respectful Relationships Program for Boys. The day encouraged our young men to consider the importance of respect, empathy, integrity and positive relationships, offering valuable insights that will support their ongoing personal development.

Another significant milestone was the completion of Peer Support training, as students prepare for leadership opportunities in Year 10. Through this program, they developed communication, mentoring and leadership skills that will enable them to support younger students and contribute positively to our College community.

Year 9 students have also represented the College with distinction across a wide range of co‑curricular activities. Their efforts played an important role in the College’s success at the Term 2 Conference Championships in Rugby League and Football. In addition, students competed admirably in the finals of Debating, Rugby 7s and AFL, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and sportsmanship in every arena.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Year 9 and I hope you enjoy a well‑deserved break.

Year 10

Mr Mark Barroccu
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 10

This term has been filled with personal growth opportunities and important milestones for our Year 10 students.

Work Experience became a focus with a White Card course for all our future tradies. This certification provides students with a greater understanding of safe work practices and helps prepare them for real world workplace environments.

A highlight of the term was attendance at the 10:10 Project Conference, which explored the inspiring theme “Life to the Full.” Students engaged in meaningful discussions and activities focused on wellbeing, purpose, resilience and living a fulfilling life. The conference encouraged students to reflect on their strengths and aspirations while building positive connections with others.

The journey toward the Higher School Certificate (HSC) officially commenced with subject selection processes and the commencement of Minimum Standards Testing. These important steps have helped students begin planning their pathways for the future while developing confidence in their literacy and numeracy skills.

As part of our commitment to student wellbeing, the school also launched the National Anti-Bullying Framework. Through vertical classroom discussions and awareness activities, students explored the importance of respect and inclusion, helping to strengthen our positive school culture.

Students and staff came together to support R U OK? Day, wearing yellow mufti clothing to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of checking in with family, friends and classmates. The vibrant display of yellow across the school served as a reminder that meaningful conversations can make a significant difference in someone’s life.

Learning extended beyond the classroom during the Calmsley Hill Farm Sustainable Biomes Excursion. Students explored sustainable farming practices, environmental management and ecosystem connections, gaining a deeper understanding of how sustainability impacts both local communities and the wider world. Seeing tough boys be humbled by cute spring lambs was a sight.

The term concluded with Work Experience Week, where Year 10 students had the opportunity to explore potential career pathways in a variety of workplace settings. The experience allowed students to develop confidence, independence and valuable employability skills while gaining firsthand insight into different industries.

With Spring now here, the Year 10 Vinnies crew have been doing a stellar job in Brother Mark’s garden getting everything in place for a mid-term 4 harvest. Looking forward to lots of greens, beans, tomatoes and strawberries.

Overall, it has been a rewarding term filled with opportunities for learning, reflection and personal development. We congratulate all students for their enthusiastic participation and look forward to seeing them continue to grow and thrive throughout the remainder of the year.

Year 11

Ms Emily Mattick
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 11

It’s been a busy term for Year 11 at Marist College Eastwood!

First and foremost, congratulations to our 2027 Student Leadership Team who were announced this term. These students were appointed to their roles following an extensive process which included self-nomination, addressing their peers and staff and subsequent voting from their cohort and teachers. The leaders stood before the College for the first time at the Malloy Cup Award Assembly and as is custom, led their peers in the singing of the Sub Tuum. We look forward to seeing the initiatives brought forward not only by the leadership team but the entirety of the year group over the coming twelve months, as they serve our community with strong minds and gentle hearts.

In the middle of Term 3, Year 11 completed their Preliminary Examinations. This gave them valuable experience with navigating an assessment period similar to the Trials and HSC, particularly regarding developing their time management and study skills. Students have now received comprehensive feedback from their teachers in order to help them best refine their knowledge and skills in each subject as they move towards Year 12.  

After an examination block spent hitting the books, Year 11 hit the road at their RYDA excursion to learn all about becoming safer drivers. As many of the students work towards achieving their Provisional Licences, becoming responsible road users is front of mind. Through a series of fun interactive workshops, students learnt about how to minimise risk on the road by making informed choices as both drivers and passengers. 

Wishing Year 11 and their families a safe, relaxing and happy holiday break before they return to school for the commencement of their HSC year.

Year 12

Ms Linda Burland
Leader of Wellbeing – Year 12

Term 3 has been a significant and memorable period for our Year 12 students. Throughout the term, the boys demonstrated resilience, commitment and determination as they prepared for and completed their Trial HSC Examinations. These assessments provided an important opportunity to consolidate learning, refine examination techniques and identify areas for improvement as they move towards their final HSC examinations. The maturity and perseverance shown during this demanding period reflected their commitment to achieving their personal best.

Following the trials, students participated in a Reflection Day focused on personal growth, future pathways and life beyond school. In the Marist tradition, the day encouraged the boys to pause and reflect on their journey through the College, the relationships they have formed and the values that will guide them in the future. Through prayer, reflection and discussion, students were challenged to consider how they can continue to live lives of faith, service and integrity, inspired by the example of St Marcellin Champagnat.

The cohort also demonstrated a strong sense of generosity and family spirit through fundraising initiatives for the Year 12 School Gift. Their efforts reflected gratitude for the opportunities provided by the College and a desire to leave a meaningful legacy for future generations of students which will be a lectern that will be used at flag raising on Fridays.

Several important milestones were celebrated at the end of the term. The Graduation Breakfast brought together students and staff in a spirit of gratitude and fellowship. The Graduation Mass provided an opportunity to give thanks for the blessings of their Marist journey and seek guidance for the future. At the Graduation Assembly, the wider school community acknowledged the achievements, leadership and contributions of the Class of 2026. The School Formal concluded these celebrations, allowing students to share a memorable evening with their peers, parents and teachers.