06 Jul 2021

From the Principal – Ms Pussich

NAIDOC Week, 4-11 July 2021

NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians to come together to celebrate not only Indigenous achievement but the history, rich culture, and survival of the oldest continuing living culture on the planet. This year’s theme is Heal Country.

God of all creation, as we journey together in this Great Southern Land,
We pray for healing, forgiveness, and unity,
Creating a path of good will, with justice and compassion.
Jesus, through the power of your love,
You have given us the courage, wisdom, and strength
To share our gifts and talents in humility.
In peace and understanding we reconcile with each other.
Creator Spirit, we come together in prayer and thanksgiving
For the many blessings we have received.
Allow your Spirit to wash over us and give us strength to walk together as one.

https://www.cns.catholic.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/NAIDOC-Week-for-Parents-2020.pdf

 

Thank you for a wonderful Term 2. The students worked well and took on my challenge to say “Thank you” as often as they could. I hope this continues. I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to the College community, parents, teachers and students, for switching to Remote Learning on Thursday 24 June at short notice. As soon as I have information about what school will look like for Term 3, I will communicate this to you. Please note that 12 July is Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews for Years 7-10 and booking close on Thursday 8 July.

I hope everyone is coping well and staying safe during lockdown

 

Step Up Into Teaching (SUIT) Program 2021

It is a great privilege to be a teacher and I know some of our students would like to pursue a rewarding career and vocation in teaching. ACU is once again providing MMCC students in Year 11 with the opportunity to apply for their Step Up Into Teaching Program in 2021. Any students intending to apply for the SUIT Program in 2021 must attend the Information Evening and register their intention to attend with Mrs Pedavoli.  A flyer with information is included in this newsletter.

The SUIT Parent-Student Information Evening details are:

  • DATE: Wednesday 21 July 2021
  • TIME: 6pm – 7pm (arrive at Venue or on Zoom 10 minutes prior)
  • VENUE: Australian Catholic University Building 612, Ground floor, Gleeson Auditorium 612.G.01 Strathfield Campus (Mount Saint Mary) 25A Barker Road, Strathfield, NSW 2135

OR

 

 

From the Assistant Principal – Mrs Harding

What a great term of learning at the College. The staff continue to display commitment for academic achievement and excellence in all that they do. Students are encouraged to give 100% effort and work hard to achieve their personal best. Year 12 students in particular are asked to take up this challenge of academic commitment and hard work throughout the holiday period and in the lead up to their HSC Trial Examinations.

 

Year 12

Year 12 are about to embark on their final term of secondary schooling. When students return from these upcoming holidays they will have two weeks of classes and then they will sit their HSC Trial Examinations. These begin on Monday 26 July 2021. This is not a holiday in the traditional sense for our girls, it is a time for our girls to recharge, organise themselves, get up to date with their study notes and practice HSC exam questions. Students enrolled in practical subjects will be particularly busy finishing major works and completing folios.

Information regarding the HSC Examinations can be found on the NESA website:

 

Year 12 IMC After Hours Twilight Study

I am constantly inspired by the time and effort teachers put into ensuring that our girls are learning and given many opportunities to achieve HSC success.  The dedicated staff at the College are committed to offering our senior students every opportunity to succeed.  An opportunity that our Year 12 students are given is after hours Twilight Study in the College library, IMC. There will be experienced HSC teachers available to assist your daughter with her HSC study and skills. Details are:

Dates: 19, 20, 21 and 22 July
Times: 3.30 – 6.30pm
Students need parent permission to attend and are required to make their own way home at 6.30pm.

 

Years 7 – 10 Parent, Teacher and Student Interviews via ZOOM

I ask all parents and carers to refer to the COMPASS notification, regarding the change of format of Year 7-10 interviews from Ms Israel on Thursday 24 June. Interviews will now be via Zoom and can be made at the following times: 9.00-11.00am, 11.30am-1.30pm, 2.15-5.00pm, 5.45-7.30pm. To make an appointment, parents will need to use our Compass Parent Portal (called Conferences on Compass). Please refer to the document for assistance:
Years 7 to 10 Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews – Compass Booking Instructions.

We encourage parents to make use of this opportunity to meet via Zoom with your daughter’s teachers.

Date: Monday 12 July – first day of Term 3

Times: 9.00am – 7.30pm

Method: via Zoom

 

Important Dates for Term 3

  • Monday 12th July – Parent Student Teacher Interviews for Years 7 to 10
  • Tuesday 13th July – first day of classes Term 3 (Day 2)
  • Monday 19th July to Thursday 22nd July – Year 12 Twilight Study Session 3.30pm to 6.30pm
  • Monday 26th July to Monday 9th August – Trial HSC Examinations
  • Monday 9th August to Friday 13th August – JJAMM Week
  • Wednesday 11th August – Mary MacKillop Day
  • Tuesday 17th August – Parent Advisory Group meeting 6.00pm
  • Monday 30th August to Friday 10th September – Year 11 Exams
  • Wednesday 1st September – Father’s Day Mass and Breakfast
  • Friday 10th September – last day of classes for Year 12
  • Thursday 16th September – last day of classes for Term 3
  • Friday 17th September – Staff Development Day (no classes)

I hope all families are enjoying a relaxing break, unfortunately in lockdown, and thank you for your support of the College.

Mrs Christine Harding

Around the Grounds

SCS Dance and Choral Eisteddfod

On the 11th and 18th of June students from Mary MacKillop Catholic College participated in the inaugural Sydney Catholic School Dance and Choral Eisteddfods at Southern Cross Catholic Vocational College in Burwood. The Senior Dance Ensemble entered the beginners section and performed a Jazz number winning the Highly Commended award. The girls did a great job and were unlucky not to place in the category. They did receive some valuable feedback that they will carry into next year’s competitions. Thank you to Mrs Jeffrey, Ms Diokno and Mrs Aurelius.

The Senior Choir Ensemble entered in the experienced section performing the Sister Act hit ‘Oh Happy Day’ and ‘One Voice’ by Ruth Moody. The girls received an encouragement award and were unlucky to not place with there being some extremely close competition amongst the other schools. There was some valuable feedback received from the adjudicators that will be used as a learning opportunity for next year. Thank you to Mr Reutens and Mr Harski.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Jeffrey with all her work and preparation in getting the students ready for this event, particularly with the SCC Dance competition being in close succession. I also extend my gratitude to Mr Harski who put in a lot of extra time in helping to arrange and support the choir rehearsals before and after school. Finally a thank you to Ms Pussich and the College Executive for supporting all eisteddfod entries by allowing for extra rehearsal time throughout the term and for being moral support throughout the performance days.

A big congratulations to all students and staff involved in both Eisteddfods, next year we go one better.

Mr Kevin Reutens, Coordinator of Learning – Creative & Performing Arts

 

SCC Dance Competition

On 16th June, the SCC Dance competition was held at Mount Saint Joseph, Milperra. The dance team, who have been working extremely hard throughout the year in preparation for the event, did a tremendous job representing the College.

All members of the dance team have dedicated many hours, practising and perfecting their dance routines in preparation for this tournament. Their hard work and dedication paid off, with a victory in the ‘Cultural Dance’ category and a third in the ‘Junior Jazz’ category.

Beginning in Term 1, the forty one students involved in the program have dedicated three lunchtimes a week to practice and learn their routines. It has been fantastic to see the dedication, growth and positive attitudes of each member of the squad throughout Terms 1 and 2.

Mrs Jeffrey, Ms Diokno and Mrs Aurelius have mentored, coached and given up countless hours to ensure that each student involved in the squad is supported and provided with an opportunity to develop and enjoy dance at the College.

In particular, I would like to acknowledge the hard work of Mrs Jeffrey who coordinated the dance program. Ms Jeffery’s dedication and organisation has been critical in the success our dance team has achieved so far in 2021.

Congratulations to all students and staff involved in the 2021 dance program.

Whiz-zards of Wakeley

At the end of Term 2, our HAST (High Ability Selective Test) Panel members; Miss Leah Brown, Ms Jacqueline Genovese, Mrs Annette Flanagan and Ms Narelle Webster, collaborated with Ms Bernadette Bentley from Sydney Catholic Schools to make recommendations for our 2022 Year 7 Newman class by assessing numerous Year 6 student portfolios.

This is Mary MacKillop’s first year implementing the HAST and student portfolio in our Newman Gifted Selective Education Program selection process for our Year 7 cohort. These student portfolios consist of a number of components which provide a holistic picture of a student and their abilities and a strong indication of their suitability for the Newman Gifted Selective Education Program.

This process began last year when Year 5 students and their parents nominated for HAST testing and provided information about their achievements including NAPLAN, School Reports, ICAS competitions and the Premier’s Reading Challenge. This information was supported by data provided by their primary schools including PAT and AGAT results and a recommendation from their school principal.

Earlier this year, these Year 6 students visited Mary MacKillop and completed the HAST which provided us with information regarding their abilities in Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, Abstract Reasoning and Written Expression. They took part in four different tests across the day which challenged them to use their cognitive skills to solve problems and respond to questions.

Our panel is very pleased with the calibre of academic achievement present from this cohort and look forward to seeing these girls shine next year at the College. First round offers for the Year 7 Newman Gifted Selective classes will be in the mail soon to the selected students. Second round offers will be sent out to students after additional data is collected at the upcoming orientation days.

Miss Leah Brown

HSC CAPA Showcase

This year on Thursday 15th July 2021, Year 12 CAPA students will be showcasing some of their major works as part of a performance showcase. The night will begin at 4:30pm in the College Hall with canapes served until 5pm. This will be followed by performances from the Year 12 Music, Drama and Viva Dance program students. The aim of this showcase is to provide the students with an opportunity not only to show the college community what they have been working on throughout the past 10 months but also giving students the chance to practice their works in front of an audience.

Depending on the advice from NSW Health, we would like to extend an invitation to the family members of any student involved as well as students who participate in CAPA subjects from Stages 5 – 6 to see first hand the required quality of work leading into the HSC.

This is a great opportunity for the college community to support all the hard work students and teachers have put into the CAPA major works, we look forward to seeing you there.

Mr Kevin Reutens, Coordinator of Learning – Creative & Performing Arts

 

Graduates of the Yes Program – Medical Administration

Congratulations to Sarah Mansour and Maryam Al Bahno, Year 11 students who successfully completed their Medical Administration course. These students attended Liverpool TAFE every Wednesday in Term 2 and were given the opportunity to experience an introduction course in Medical Administration.

During this short course students were immersed in tasks such as touch typing, sending professional emails and organising patient files on the computer. In addition to this, students were able to work in a simulated medical centre. Well done Sarah and Maryam!

“ We really enjoyed this course and it allowed us to learn new skills”. Sarah and Maryam

Ms Veselcic

Catholic Education Foundation Refugee Week Video

The Catholic Education Foundation which supports families experiencing financial hardship have produced a video for Refugee Week featuring MMCC students. To view the video click on the link:

CEF Refugee Week Video

Year 10 Excursion to St Joseph’s Trade School

On Tuesday 15th June, 2021, 20 Year 10 students attended an Open Day at St Joseph’s Trade School in Hinchinbrook accompanied by Ms Veselcic and Mrs Nesnas. The students were given the opportunity to explore the possible vocational education subjects that can be studied in Stage 6. The students were able to view many simulated classrooms that provide practical experiences in a real life setting. For instance, when students study Human Services they learn from a classroom that feels like a real hospital setting.

The students explored the following courses: Human Services, Early Childhood, Education & Care, Fitness, Hairdressing & Beauty and Event Management.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“Today was a great opportunity to experience the different pathways that are offered at St Joseph’s trade school. We were guided into different classrooms that specialised in different courses and we were given lots of information about what the course involves and what jobs can be gained. I really enjoyed viewing students doing a hairdressing practical. Overall, it was a very interesting experience and I am really looking forward to attending next year”.

Revina Jebo – Year 10

For further information about courses, please visit: https://sites.google.com/syd.catholic.edu.au/stjosephtsc/home?authuser=0

Pedestrian Safety

Please click on link for further information: Pedestrian Safety

Solar Car Challenge

Step Up Into Teaching (SUIT) Parent-Student Information Evening at ACU

Date: Wednesday 21 July 2021

Time: 6pm – 7pm

Any students intending to apply for the Step Up Into Teaching Program in 2021 must attend this meeting. Students should register their intention to attend with their relevant school coordinator.

 This event will run simultaneously in two modes: on Strathfield campus and also via Zoom (details provided below) for those who are unable to attend in person.

If you could please arrive 10 minutes prior to the start of the session that will be much appreciated.

Please also see the attached campus map for your reference.

 Light refreshments will be served.

 

 Venue details

Building 612, Ground floor, Gleeson Auditorium 612.G.01

Strathfield Campus (Mount Saint Mary)

25A Barker Road

Strathfield, NSW 2135

 

Zoom meeting invite

 Katarina Tuinamuana (Course Coordinator) is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

 Time: Jul 21, 2021 06:00 PM Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney

Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device:

Please click this URL to start or join: https://acu.zoom.us/j/89187027277?pwd=ZjNxOGpnUzBvemdWRXg2NTE1SndHUT09

Password: 182015

Join from dial-in phone line:

Dial: +61 2 8015 2088

Meeting ID: 891 8702 7277

International numbers available: https://acu.zoom.us/u/ktbpvtbC

 Join from a H.323/SIP room system:

Dial: 89187027277@zoom.aarnet.edu.au

or 89187027277@zmau.us

or 103.122.166.55

Meeting ID: 891 8702 7277

H323/SIP Password: 182015

Join from Skype for Business or Lync:

Dial: 89187027277@lync.zoom.us

 

How to get here?
By car

There are three designated parking areas for visitors and students:

  • The front car park on the right as you enter the campus from Barker Road.
  • The far western car park beside the Creative Arts Building (access off Barker Road).
  • Underground carpark

For enquiries regarding access to parking on campus please contact Campus Concierge on (02) 9701 4000. 

Public transport

https://www.acu.edu.au/locations/strathfield

(Information listed under the heading “Getting around Strathfield”

Please click on link: SUIT Application Form

 

Transit Systems Temporary Route 9054 Change

Transit Systems Temporary Route 9631 Change