Week 9

27 March 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

Father Dominik (St Kevin’s) gave a beautiful homily this morning at mass that linked directly to the concepts of forgiveness and revenge. And it linked perfectly to a conversation I had with some Year 10 boys in the yard the other day. 

A Year 10 boy was being addressed for throwing some food in the playground at lunch. As an isolated incident, it was a silly choice and a poor decision from the student, but nothing major when you take a look at what is happening across the world at the moment. When the student was challenged, his response was “He threw it first” (insinuating he was simply responding to another person’s poor choices). Now I’m a realist and I understand the frustration that comes with potentially being the victim of someone else’s poor choices. But as a Catholic school with a strong Marist charism, are we controlled and motivated by revenge? I hope not.

I recognise it is hard to “turn the other cheek” when you feel wronged. We live in a society with a strong sense of justice and victim advocacy. And social media is a great forum in which to share with the whole world the faults and wrongs committed by others. But the reality is, life is challenging and in most cases, there is no intent from other parties to hurt.

I like to encourage students to assume positive intent. I watched a clip online the other day that put it simply (I apologise for the inaccuracy of the quote and lack of author acknowledgement):

“When someone cuts me off in traffic, rather than get angry, assume they were rushing to the hospital or something tragic has happened or they were desperate to get to the toilet! Don’t make the assumption that they were intentionally trying to frustrate or annoy you. Assume positive intent.”

Consequences are a part of life and sometimes the best way to teach young people right from wrong. But as we continue to move through Lent to the climax of our faith, let’s not focus on revenge, but rather forgiveness and assume ‘positive intent’ in those around us. 

Respice Finem

Mr David Sullivan
Principal

 

 

Week 9

27 March 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

As we reach the end of Term 1, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for your ongoing support and partnership throughout the term. It has been a busy and rewarding start to the school year, filled with learning, growth and many moments that remind us of the strength of our school community. Our students have worked with enthusiasm across all learning areas, showing resilience, curiosity and kindness. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and their commitment to doing their best each day. I would also like to acknowledge our dedicated staff, whose hard work and care ensure that every child feels supported and encouraged in their learning.

A reminder about the wonderful opportunity afforded by the College in our after-school programs which have been led by Ms Stojic and executed by our Old Boys Tutors. Our programs offer extra assistance to all students for homework, study advice and support for upcoming assessment tasks. This program will continue in Term 2 and we strongly encourage as many families as possible to utilise this added resource and support which is run in our Learning Centre each afternoon after school. 

During the school holidays, we will be offering our Year 12 cohort workshops as part of their preparation for their HSC. More specific information on these workshops will be shared in a separate letter to Year 12 shortly.

Classes for Term 1 will formally end on Thursday 2 April 2026 and will conclude with our College Easter Liturgy.  

I note that Term 2 will commence on Monday 20 April 2026 with all students returning in full College winter uniform. Standards and expectations start with how we walk into the school gate and our hair, grooming and uniform is a clear and easy way we can show our respect to the College expectations.

As we enter the Easter season, we are invited to embrace the themes of hope, renewal and new beginnings. This time of year encourages us to pause and reflect, recognising the light and joy that Easter brings. May this season bless your families with peace, happiness and a renewed sense of gratitude.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed for another wonderful term of learning ahead.

Kind regards

Ms Melinda Alvarez 
Assistant Principal

 

Mother’s Day Mass & Breakfast

27 March 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

Mother’s Day Mass & Breakfast

On Friday 8 May 2026 we will be celebrating a special Mass to honour our Mothers, Grandmothers, Stepmothers and Carers before Mother’s Day.  I would love for you to join your son/s in this celebration at St Kevin’s Church, commencing at 8.00am.  We include in this invitation fathers or other family members who take on special roles in our boys’ lives.

After the Mass, we would like to invite you and your son/s to a light breakfast to be held in the Montagne Centre.

To plan for this morning, could you please RSVP here by no later than Friday 1 May so that we can finalise catering and arrange for your son/s to be released from class on Friday morning. 

Students attending Breakfast will return to class in Period 2 (9.45am). Should your son/s not attend Mass and/or Breakfast, they will attend Homeroom and Period 1 as per their normal timetable.  

We look forward to sharing this occasion with you.

Yours sincerely

Mr David Sullivan                                                    Mr Colm McCaughan
Principal                                                                  Religious Education Coordinator

 

Year 7 Camp – Final Reminders

27 March 2026

Dear Parents/Carers and Students,

Year 7 Camp – Final Reminders

As you know, it’s nearly camp time!  The final preparations are being completed. This is just a final letter to outline some of the essential reminders the boys need to remember for their preparation.

  • Where: Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation. Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen
  • When: Term 2, Week 1. Mon 20 April – Wednesday 22 April
  • Time: Students are expected to arrive at the College by normal time on Monday, 20 April, and are expected to be back at the College on Wednesday, 22 April between 2.30-3.00 pm.
  • What to bring: Details on what to bring and what not to bring can be found through the following link – click here. Students are required to bring a separate backpack/day pack. Water bottles, sunscreen and Ventolin puffers etc can be kept in the day pack

Note: Students will be required to bring their own morning tea on Monday, 20 April 

Swimming

Throughout the camp, there will be some activities that involve swimming. To ensure safety is maintained, please complete the following swimming ability form by 10 April 2026. 

Student Medication:

All student medication must be given to Mr Flew on the morning of Monday, 20 April. Parents who indicated that their son was required to bring medication on camp need to have completed the medication consent form (this is located under the resources tab on the year 7 Camp event on Compass), so that the Nurse from Kemp recruitment can administer this while on Camp.  

We ask that you place medication in a clear zip lock bag, clearly labelled with your son’s full name and Homeroom. Student medication/medical supplies kept at the College will be taken on camp. Students requiring asthma puffers are asked to carry puffers in their day pack. Any student who is required to carry an EpiPen at all times (as per their individualised management plan) are asked to do so.

Valuables, mobile phones, electronics  and money:

Valuables (electronics, air pods, earphones, expensive watches, jewellery, etc) and mobile phones are not permitted on camp. Students will not have the opportunity to purchase items/food whilst on camp.

Note: The Office of Sport and the College take no responsibility for the loss or damage to students’ personal property, including money or other valuable items.

Emergency Contact:

In case of emergencies, parents are asked to contact the College on 9858 1644. 

For further details, refer to the Parent information – school camps | NSW Government

Kind regards,

Ms Linda Codamo                                                                              Mr Stephen Flew
Director of Wellbeing                                                                       Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing

 

Years 11 & 12 – Changes to SBAT & TAFE Schedules

27 March 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

Changes to SBAT Work & TAFE Schedules

Thank you for your ongoing support of the students as they commence and progress through their School Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships. Based on my conversations with them and their employers, it appears the boys are starting the year strong and keen, genuinely enjoying their learning and gaining valuable insights to their respective fields.

To ensure consistency for students undertaking a School Based Apprenticeship or Traineeship (SBAT) and to effectively manage the balance between school commitments and workplace requirements, I would like to outline the process for any changes to previously agreed work and/or TAFE days.

All requests to change a scheduled SBAT work day must be submitted via email to the Careers Adviser, Mr Benjamin Nguyen (benjamin.nguyen004@syd.catholic.edu.au), at least one week prior to the proposed change. This timeframe allows for appropriate consultation between the Leader of Wellbeing, Director of Curriculum and Careers Adviser to ensure there are no clashes with assessment tasks or other compulsory school commitments.

Students are also expected to consult with their Leader of Wellbeing and relevant Leaders of Learning to confirm that any proposed change does not conflict with published assessment schedules, as outlined on the Compass Calendar and in the Assessment Handbook.

In accordance with the College’s SBAT policy:

  • Year 11 students are permitted one day of work and one day of TAFE per week.
  • Year 12 students may undertake two days of work per week once TAFE has concluded.

If a student wishes to undertake a third day of work in any given week, a formal application for leave must be submitted by both the student and parent/carer. This request must be made at least one week in advance by emailing the Director of Curriculum, Ms Monique Brame (monique.brame@syd.catholic.edu.au) and the Careers Adviser. Approval will be granted only where the student is up to date with all coursework and assessment requirements.

Thank you for your support in ensuring clear and consistent processes for our thriving SBAT students.

Yours sincerely

Mr Benjamin Nguyen
Careers Adviser

 

Reminder – Early Dismissal – 31 March 2026

13 March 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

Early Dismissal – 31 March 2026

On Tuesday, 31 March 2026 all students will be dismissed early to accommodate Year 12 Parent Teacher Conferences. All students will be dismissed at 12.15pm.

Research clearly indicates the importance of collaboration and strong working relationships between schools and parents for improved student outcomes. This strong parent engagement leads to improved wellbeing and academic student outcomes and at the College we value and prioritise the opportunity for parents and teachers to meet and discuss the growth and development of students.

Supervised study will be available for students who require it until 2.50pm in the Learning Centre. If your son will be staying at school for supervised study, we do ask you to complete the attached form by Friday, 27 March so that staffing and rooming arrangements can be made.

Please note that Homework Club & Math Club will not be running on this day and the Learning Centre will not be available after school.

The school canteen will not be available for lunch for students staying at school.

Students have been informed they are to go directly home and to be conscious of their behaviour and movement on public transport considering the differing dismissal time from the normal. This is a great opportunity for students to complete individual study tasks or prepare for any upcoming assessments.

Yours sincerely

Ms Melinda Alvarez
Assistant Principal

 

Reminder – A Call to Our Parent Community

13 February 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

A Call to Our Parent Community

On Tuesday 28 April 2026 we will be hosting our second Careers Night for students in Years 10-12. While we have a fantastic lineup of alumni and industry partners returning to the College, we know that some of the greatest expertise resides right here within our own parent body.

If you are passionate about your profession and would be open to sitting at an “Industry Hub” for two hours to share your insights with our students, we would be honoured to have you. All professions and skills are welcomed but we are particularly looking to expand our representation in Architecture, Paramedicine, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Hospitality, Aviation and the Creative Arts.

If you would like to join our panel of advisors for the evening, please register your interest here: https://forms.gle/zaCuUAGASHEVXZp37 

Thank you for your continued support in helping our young men find their sense of purpose and direction. We look forward to seeing you there.

Warm regards

Mr. Benjamin Nguyen
Careers Adviser

Reminder – Years 10, 11 & 12 – 2026 Careers Night – “Your Futures, Unfiltered”

13 February 2026

Dear Parents/Carers

Subject: Invitation: “Your Futures, Unfiltered” – Careers Night 2026

At Marist College Eastwood, we believe that the best career advice doesn’t just come from a textbook – it comes from the real-world experiences of those who have walked the path before.

We are excited to invite you and your sons in Years 10, 11 and 12 to our upcoming Careers Night: “Your Futures, Unfiltered.”

This evening is designed to pull back the curtain on the professional world. We have curated an incredible panel of over 40 advisors – ranging from Surgeons, Lawyers and Politicians to Carpenters, Engineers and Tech Innovators – who are ready to share the honest realities, challenges and rewards of their respective fields. University representatives will be there too.

Event Details:

  • Date: Tuesday 28 April 2026
  • Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
  • Location: Montagne Centre (entry via Gate 5 on Terry Road)
  • Who should attend: All students in Years 10, 11 and 12 and their parents/carers
  • RSVP: Please confirm your attendance here

This is a unique opportunity for your son to move beyond “what” he wants to be and start discovering “how” to get there through meaningful face-to-face networking.

Warm regards

Mr. Benjamin Nguyen
Careers Adviser 

Reminder – Year 12 – 2026 Parent/Teacher and Student Conferences

Letter from the Director of Learning & Teaching

6 March 2026

Dear Year 12 Parents/Carers

Year 12 Parent/Teacher and Student Conferences

The Parent/Teacher and Student Conferences on Tuesday 31 March from 1:15pm-7:00pm will provide you the opportunity to discuss your son’s progress.  Parents can support their son through an honest conversation about his learning and ensure that specific strategies from their son’s teachers are applied in the home environment.

These Parent/Teacher and Student Conferences will be the last formal opportunity to meet with your son’s teachers to discuss his learning progress and they will be taking place face-to-face in the Montagne Centre.

An important part of learning at Marist College Eastwood is feedback that will inform students on how well they are progressing with their learning goals and the steps needed to improve.  Often this will afford an opportunity for affirmation of your son’s efforts so far. Optimal learning performances will be achieved by students who:

  • Reflect critically on their learning goals and lead the discussion on strategies to enhance their learning.
  • Seek feedback from their teachers on ways to improve their achievement in all future tasks.
  • Attend all scheduled classes and engage with the classwork in every lesson.
  • Complete all assigned class work and homework and seek feedback on the quality of the work.
  • Ensure that time is spent each day on exercise and relaxation, or stress-reducing activities.

All Parent/Teacher Conferences will be booked via Compass.  The Compass portal will be open to make bookings for interviews on Monday 23 March at 8.30am and closes Monday 30 March at 8.00am.  To book interviews please login to Compass, select the Community tab (2 heads) and then select Conferences.

Yours sincerely

Ms Melissa Williams
Director of Learning & Teaching

 

Reminder – Year 12 – Holiday Seminar Information

20 March 2026

Dear Year 12 Parents/Carers

Year 12 Holiday Seminar Information

I would like to begin by commending the collaborative approach that the cohort of 2026 has taken this year in preparation for their HSC. Research indicates that learning growth is strongly linked to collective efficacy. This, combined with high expectations from teachers and the students’ shared belief in their ability to succeed, significantly enhances their potential for achievement.

During the upcoming school holidays, we have a variety of opportunities for our students to continue their collaborative and supportive approach in what we know is a challenging year. We have SCS Zoom sessions by HSC specialists that students can attend from home. Additionally, we have allocated time for workshop classrooms to be open for students completing major works. Our dedicated teachers will run some workshops at the College and this year, we have included Old Boy Tutors for exam question practice across various subjects. The HSC School Holiday seminar Timetable is being finalised and will be sent to both parents and students early in Week 9 by Ms Stojic, our Leader of Student Life and Co-Curricular.

We will be asking students to complete a google form to indicate which sessions they will be attending to ensure appropriate rooming and for site safety at this time. Students are not required to wear school uniform, however they need to ensure they are in appropriate footwear and clothing for their learning environments.

I strongly encourage you to talk to your son about these upcoming holidays and which seminars, workshops or HSC exam question practice sessions they will attend.

Kind regards

Ms Monique Brame
Director of Curriculum and NESA Accreditation

 

Uniforms

2nd Hand Uniform Shop – Next open: Thursday, 30 April (Week 2 Term 2) from 1.30pm-3.00pm. Located at the rear of Cottage 3 – entry via Gate 4 on Hillview Road. Cash & EFTPOS accepted.

Please note:

  • As the school has changed uniform suppliers, uniform sizing has changed and is no longer consistent with previous sizes
  • We strongly encourage parents to bring their own measurements when purchasing from the second-hand uniform shop
  • The second-hand uniform shop is not responsible for sizing issues, and all sales are final — no refunds or exchanges are available

Donations to the Second Hand Uniform Shop can be dropped off to the College Front Reception during normal school hours. Year 12’s your blazers would be very much appreciated after you graduate.

For more information, please refer to Compass > Community tab (2 heads) > School Documentation > Parent Information and Forms > Uniform Price List & Second Hand Uniform Shop Information