From the Principal

Welcome to new staff

This week, we welcomed Mr James Montagna, our new Maintenance Team member. James knows the value of maintaining and continually developing our spectacular Woolwich site. 

2023 Campus Experience! Showcasing MSCW!

The enthusiasm and excitement to be part of our “Campus Experience” was very evident as soon as we opened

the gates at 4.30pm on Wednesday. The sounds of our String Ensemble welcomed prospective families to the College Hall where I had the opportunity to share all the wonderful opportunities available at our outstanding College.  It was the beginning of what I described in my address to parents as “A LIVELY and WELCOMING EMBRACE” by MSCW. Our 2023 School Captains, Ava Gibson and Madison Turri, shared their personal experiences of life and learning which makes MSCW a great place in which to thrive. They were followed by Year 8 students, Sophie Murphy and Angelina Severino, who shared from a junior perspective, their tips and highlights in joining our vibrant MSCW Community.

Our Choir rounded off the information session before a team of student volunteers led College tours which included displays, performances and demonstrations. Throughout the evening it was very evident that our confident young women have great affection for their school and were very proud to show visitors how effectively they engage in their learning. 

I wish to thank all the students who gave of their time, enthusiasm and energy to the Campus Experience event. I also particularly thank the College staff for their generosity, hard work and dedication towards its preparation. Further thanks are extended to our mighty Year 8 Parent helpers, who ran the BBQ and catering so successfully. They were exceptional. The delicious smell of the BBQ wafting across the new verdant plaza added to the delightful experience of the evening.

A special “THANKYOU” is extended to Mrs Melinda Alvarez, Assistant Principal, who coordinated the event, assisted by Mr Andrew Hallman, Business Manager, Mr Sam Burridge & Mr James Montagna, Maintenance Staff, and our gardener Mr Anthony Gauchi for their excellent planning in readiness for the ‘Campus Experience’ evening. The professional and competent staff who choose to work at MSCW are a blessing to our community. 

House Masses & Supper. A new successful event for all Parents

House spirit has clearly been alive over the last 2 weeks with our House Families celebrating Eucharist and building relationships. This new initiative has allowed House Coordinators the opportunity to share the significant message and mottos of their House Founders (Chavoin, Marcellin, Chanel, Colin, Perroton, & Jaricot). It has also allowed students to introduce their parents to other families from within their Tutor group and House. These connections are life long and provide an essential sense of belonging to our Marist community for all families.

We have our last two House Masses this coming week. Jaricot on Monday, 13 March followed by Marcellin on Thursday 14 March. I look forward to seeing those House families at these significant events.

Public Speaking

Congratulations to the following students who are competing in the Public Speaking Competition that began last Friday. It is great to see this involvement in the extra-curricular life of the College. 

The teams are: 

Year 7
Ava Marangon
Alanah O’Donovan
Year 8
Sophie Murphy
Angelina Severino
Year 9
Jacinta Da Silva
Alissa Tosh
Year 10 – (Year 9 Students competing in the Year 10 Division)
Harriet O’Connor
Leia Gonzales
Senior
Natalie Broom (Year 12)
Claudia Walker (Year 12)
Monet Lobina (Year 11)
Sienna McCarthy (Year 11)

An update of results is provided by Mr Angus Bray, Debating Coordinator, later in the Newsletter. Good luck for the girls competing tonight!

Goodbye dull grey Concrete – Welcome refreshing new Verdant Grass! 

Continual upgrading of facilities:

Last weekend, our main playground, commonly known as “The Flat”, was given a major upgrade with the laying of refreshing hard-wearing synthetic grass. The lush, green appearance brightens the area and provides an inviting recreational area for the girls to sit and play. This upgrade continues to provide a quality environment for our girls to thrive.

International Women’s Day 2023 (8 March)

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for celebrating women’s equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. As a community of young informed women, we highlighted these areas for equality this week. 

It calls on women and men to call out inequality. At MSCW, at our Principal’s Assembly, the Student Leadership Team, led the way by reminding students that, as women, we deserve a world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that is diverse, equitable and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Celebrating women’s achievements and increasing visibility while calling out inequality is key. Ex-student, Polly Hancock, Class of 2019, addressed the students, incorporating her advice on how to “Embace Equity” while also sharing her insights on her recent trip to our Marist origins at Fourviere, in Lyon, France. Her powerful message called on our girls to be Marist Woman of Action, confident and compassionate, celebrating achievements, calling out discrimination against women and embracing every opportunity available at MSCW to build their skills as Marist women to use now and skills to take them into the future. 

Our Woolwich Student Union (WSU) is holding a ‘Dignity Drive’ collecting sanitary products for women who unfortunately may not have access to these necessities. This is a great way for our girls to be empowered as Marist Women of Action in support of other women.

The image below, was taken at the Assembly today, showing our girls embracing the International Women’s Day stance of “EmbraceEquity” in solidarity and acknowledgement of this significant day.

From the Assistant Principal

This week we celebrated our first Principal Assembly which was a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together. I would like to commend our Year 12 Student Leaders for their organisation and leadership of the assembly.  It was also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our Swimming Carnival with individual and group recognition of success as well as recognise and celebrate International Women’s Day.

The College community was privileged to performances by one of our many talented musicians; Ancela MacRae, their performances demonstrated their special gifts that they so willingly shared with the community. I thank Ancela for her courage and willingness to share her gifts and encourage all students to take part in College opportunities that are presented so that they too can share their gifts with others.

MSCW Parent Engagement 

Our MSCW Parent Engagement Model strives to build quality relationships across the College community.

Aims:

• A model of partnership with parent and families to increase parental engagement, belonging  and communication;
• An avenue for parents to be involved in the College community with parents of their daughter’s year group;
• Helping out and working with other parents in a service or social event;
• Providing a parental perspective to assist the Principal in decision making;
• Organising and running events that support the values and strategic directions of the College;

Most recently members of our parent community which included our Year 8 parents who hosted the Campus Experience Evening BBQ on Wednesday 8 March. 

2023 Events:

• Year 9 Parent Engagement group will host the Mother’s Day Mass and supper on Wednesday 10 May.

• Year 10 parent engagement group will host the Father’s Day Mass and Breakfast (Term 3)

• Year 11 parent engagement group will host the Year 12 Graduation supper (Term 3)

Please email the College info@mscw.catholic.edu.au if you would like more information regarding involvement in your daughter/s parent engagement/s group.

Ms Melinda Alvarez, Assistant Principal

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

From the Religious Education Coordinator

In our Church ……

SECOND WEEK OF LENT

A reflection from Sunday’s Gospel Reading:

Gospel of St Matthew (17:1-9)

As we journey toward the Passion and Resurrection of Christ, we have here an intense moment of revelation in the life of Jesus and of His disciples. Like Moses and Elijah before Him, Jesus ascends the mountain.

Jesus is revealed even now as the fulfillment of God’s promises, in His radiant glory as the Beloved. He is “light from light” and “true God from true God” as we profess in the Nicene Creed. 

Like the first disciples, we too are invited to lift up our hearts to the Lord, in their light and shadow, and cast aside those things which prevent us from seeing the glory and truth of God in Jesus. We are invited to entrust ourselves to his Word and radiant light, a light which reveals God’s face to us and in so doing reveals us to ourselves. 

We are invited to ‘stand up’ in these moments of encounter, to see Christ and to recognise God’s glory and power in Him anew. We are called to listen attentively to His Word, and eagerly await His Resurrection at Easter in which His glory, and our hope and destiny, will be fully and universally revealed.

Adapted from Daniel Ang

In our Community……

CAMPUS EXPERIENCE

What a wonderful opportunity for parents, students, families from our feeder primary schools and our wider community to visit Marist Sisters’ College this week for our Campus Experience. We had many visitors in our Religious Education Classroom. Many aspects of the faith formation at the College were on display, such as the Religious Education 7- 12 Curriculum, Marists in Action, Liturgies, Retreat and Reflection Day, Marist Service and Mission. The RE team and student helpers had a great time meeting the visiting families and being involved in the many fun religious activities such as games and puzzles offered throughout the evening. Thank you to the RE team and students for all your help and support throughout a very successful evening.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2

From the Assistant Religious Education Coordinator

PROJECT COMPASSION – PRISCILLA’S STORY

During our Principal’s Assembly on Wednesday, our Social Justice Captains, Isabelle Mourani and Katelyn Lopes introduced the Marist Sisters’ Community to Priscillas’s story.

Case Study: Priscilla from Zimbabwe

Our focus for this week is Priscilla from Zimbabwe. Climate change continues to bring unprecedented challenges for people living in the most vulnerable and remote communities in Zimbabwe. With the support of Caritas Hwange, Priscilla learnt conservation farming skills to grow drought-resistant crops and started poultry farming to support her family during the current food crisis.  Her story can be viewed here through Caritas Australia’s website –

“We had plenty of rains at first but as time has gone by, the rains have become erratic and hence the yields have been reduced,” Priscilla said. 

While the situation in Zimbabwe and across eastern Africa remains dire, the work of Caritas Hwange means that Priscilla can learn the techniques, tools and resources she needs to build resilience and support her family during this current food crisis.  From Caritas’ Australia website

PROJECT COMPASSION – FUNDRAISING UPDATE AND HOUSE INITIATIVES

Throughout Week 5 and Week 6, our students have been generous in their donations with Chanel and Jaricot donationg over $200 each. All updates are posted on the MSCW Cloudshare page every Friday.Our Houses have begun fundraising through exciting initiatives. This week, Jaricot held and Easter Egg Basket Raffle competition.

The following House Initiatives have been planned over the upcoming weeks:

In our Curriculum

For Catholics the search for meaning is an expression of our inherent desire to know God.  It is only when we bring together knowledge and meaning, faith and reason, that we uncover the truth of life

Throughout this term, our Year 11 students have been settling into Stage 6 with our Studies of Religion I & II, and Studies in Catholic Thought courses. Our Studies of Religion I students have been exploring the Nature of Religion and Beliefs which explores the aspects of religion including beliefs and believers, sacred texts and writings, ethical teachings and rituals and ceremonies, along with Aboriginal Spirituality. Our 1 unit students will be sitting their first assessment task Term 2, Week 2. Best of luck to these students! Our Studies of Religion II students are also studying Judaism as a Religious Tradition as an integrated belief system that provides a distinctive answer to the enduring questions of human existence for its adherents.
Thank you to the Year 11 Studies of Religion team for their continued dedication to our students!

• Ms. Irena Jajcevic
• Ms. Rebecca Bombaci
• Ms. Caroline Morizzi
• Ms. Leoni Hopkins
• Ms. Angela Bowkand

Our Studies in Catholic Thought students have been exploring their first topic on Who is a Human Person? which focuses on what it is to be human through an exploration of Scriptural texts and the work of early philosophers. Through various activities, students have developed an understanding of the links between early Greek thought and the Christian notion of being human, both in the person of Jesus Christ and the writings of St. Paul and the New Testament.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2

From the Leader of Wellbeing

Year 11 Community Time

In week 5 Year 11 were provided the opportunity to listen to a presentation by batyr.

Batyr spoke to all Year 11 and 2 young adults shared their personal experience of mental health that was negatively impacting on the life they wanted to live.

These were stories of hope that support is out there and all you need to do is ask for it.

They also provided students with some suggestions on how to manage their emotions. Such as Changing locations, listening to music that is calming, engage in some physical activity.

New Staff Introduction

Chanel House Mass

On Monday 27 February, Chanel House held the very first House Mass at the College. Fr Greg from the Saint Charles Borromeo Parish at Gladesville joined us to celebrate the Eucharist in a beautiful and intimate occasion.

Our Gospel spoke of self-sacrifice, service, compassion and Jesus’ Commandment of Love. Fr Greg’s homily expressed a genuine connection between the Gospel and the sacrificial nature of our Lenten season. During this reflection, Chanel House was able to consider the many opportunities this liturgical season will provide us to connect with our Patron, Saint Peter Chanel, who was undoubtedly a man of kindness, self-sacrifice and service.

At the end of our celebration, I spoke of how privileged and blessed I felt to be able to witness the essence of our Patron inspiring MSCW Chanelians as they go about their day, embracing their sisters and looking for opportunities to serve the wider community. I am never short of a story to tell about a time I have seen one of our students or staff members embody the Marian simplicity and quiet way of serving others. This is an integral part of the Charism that exists at MSCW and is alive in Chanel House.

I was simply overwhelmed by how creatively and passionately all our Chanel students went about assisting with the planning and execution of our very first Mass. We were blessed with students who volunteered to assist with technology on the night, reading, altar serving, singing and Maria Chakkour even learned all the hymns and songs for the night to be played on the piano. I also had Mrs Pratelli (Angelina Sesar-Pratelli’s mother) volunteer as a Eucharistic Minister, which I felt was a beautiful way to represent our Chanel parents present at our Mass.

Of course, the evening would not have been the success it was without the assistance from Ms Angela Bowland, Ms Jenny Dove and all our Chanel Tutors, who also beautifully represented the Chanel value of service in so many ways. We ended the evening with a lovely supper on Cerdon Plaza, generously made by our VET Hospitality students under the guidance of Ms Erin Healey (VET Coordinator). This was a fabulous way to celebrate our connection as a House and as a family. I am blessed to be the Coordinator of the wonderful Chanel House and am so grateful to have had this opportunity for us to grow in our faith and our love for one another.

Chavoin House Mass

On 28 February, Chavoin House was able to come together as a community and celebrate what it means to be a Chavoin girl in our Chavoin House Mass. The night was decorated with a celebration of the gifts, girls participating in choir, readings, altar serving, and distribution of the gifts of the Eucharist. Year 7 student, Natalie Pirello, led the house in the joyous hymn ‘Presence of Mary’ by playing the piano as students, families, and staff alike sang along.

It was a beautiful evening allowing Chavoin house and their families to share in faith and friendship, reflective of a quote from our patron Jeanne-Marie Chavoin:

Colin House Mass

On Wednesday 1st March we were joined by Fr Sam Lynch  from St Michael’s Parish Lane Cove to celebrate the Colin House Mass.

Colin House Co-Captains Victoria and Imogen spoke of our patron Jean-Claude Colin and how his work has influenced our students at MSCW. As a house, we are inspired by our Colin motto,

‘Unity within diversity’.

This encourages the celebration of each individual through our unique differences that create harmony between each of us. Victoria and Imogen shared the following advice with those at the House Mass – 

Throughout your time at Marist Sisters College as a Colin girl, we encourage you to continue to embrace this journey of learning with an open mind and a hunger for knowledge. Continue to take on new opportunities that come your way, explore new ideas, and challenge yourself to be the best version of yourself. Success looks different to all of us, so whether it be achieving an A in Maths, participating in a swimming race or making a new friend, give it your best shot.

We instil this motto of ‘Unity within Diversity’ on a daily basis with the students at MSCW. It was a wonderful experience for many students to display their diverse talents such as singing, playing the piano or taking part in readings throughout the service. With a light supper afterwards students, families and staff could celebrate and acknowledge the wonderful diversity within our Colin students.

Gifted and Talented Report

We celebrate the many accomplishments of our girls who shine through the development of their gifts for Life.

Accelerated Maths Class

Did you know MSCW has a Maths Acceleration program?

Students in Year 8 who demonstrated strong Mathematical ability through rigorous testing were invited to join the accelerated Maths class this year. Students following this accelerated pathway are undertaking the 5.3 Year 9 and 10 course simultaneously which will then allow these students to begin the Yr 11 Preliminary Advanced Maths course a year earlier. Through this program students are given the opportunity to indulge their passion for Mathematics. Students are also afforded greater flexibility in Year 12 to devote time to other HSC subjects. This pathway also assists students with developing their organisational and time management skills and building perseverance, collaboration and confidence. 

The first cohort of Year 10 students who are undertaking the Prelim Advanced Maths course started this year- they are pioneers for MSCW. The early morning classes have not deterred them and they are powering through the content and loving the challenge. 

From Alissa in Year 9:

Elite Athlete

We welcome Sienna Glavin of Year 7 to the College. Sienna is an elite swimmer and competes at a State level, training 2.5 hours a day!

MSCW girls can do anything!

Mrs Colreavy’s Conundrum

Can you solve this logic puzzle? The first student with the correct answer to email rachael.colreavy@syd.catholic.edu.au wins a prize!

Taken from: https://www.rd.com/article/logic-puzzles/
Source: https://www.smartbrainpuzzles.com/puzzles/logic-puzzles/

Flexischools Canteen ordering

Flexischools is our preferred method for purchasing lunch through the Canteen. Flexischools offers the following:

• Safer and more convenient than cash 
• Convenient online account top-ups 
• Online record of transaction history 
• Faster service for students 

The following link provides all the information to set up a new account or update your existing account.

Link to Flexischools Information

1. When linking your Compass Card you need to enter the letters and numbers appearing on the front of your card, just above the expiry date (see image below). Do not use the number on the back of the card. If there is an issue using the card at the Canteen, please check you have the correct number.
2. Make sure the funds on the account have been correctly entered into, either Food/ Canteen or printing credit. You cannot use printing credit for purchasing at the Canteen.
3. Linking your card to Flexischools or topping up can take up to 24 hours.
4. Students can check their card is correctly linked and their current balance by visiting the Canteen.
5. For any other questions, please feel free to contact FlexiSchools on 1300 361 769 or via email  help@flexischools.com.au or the website.

Post School Pathways News

What’s on this month Seminars and Open Days

ACE the HSC – Subject-specific HSC Seminars (Year 11 & 12) at Macquarie University

A series of live and online seminars are being held on Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th March at Macquarie University. Hear from expert HSC teachers in the following subjects: English (Advanced & Standard), Mathematics (Advanced & Standard 2), Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Legal Studies, PDHPE & Physics. Learn more at https://inspired.edu.au

Western Sydney University Webinars

The upcoming Discover Western Webinars kick off from 1 to 29 March. Learn about the range of study options Western offers with a focus on a specific area of study across the series. Each webinar will include virtual access into the facilities on campus. Register now: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/student-life/events/western-webinars?cid=em:EGMT-CAA-news-DWW-page-hyperlink 

Sydney University Webinar Wednesdays

The Weekly Webinar series is designed to help students discover what it’s like to study a bachelor’s degree here at Sydney University. These webinars are best suited for students from Years 10-12, and include tips on your school subjects, preparing for university and how to choose a course. The series also includes faculty-specific tasters. For more information and to register: bit.ly/USYDWW 

Charles Sturt | Explore Days 2023

March 7 to March 28, 2023

Are you in Year 10, 11 or 12? Explore Day is your chance to check out what life at Charles Sturt University is like – but with a twist!

Keen to check out where you’ll be staying? You’ll get to take a look at our accommodation and tour our campus, chat with students and get the lowdown from lecturers. There’s even a free lunch and a swag bag of goodies. But the best bit about Explore Day? You can get involved! Pick which interactive session/s interests you, book your spot and then get set for some hands-on learning that’s also a whole lot of fun.

Each of our Explore Day campuses will run different sessions on everything from arts to vet science. There’s lots for you to explore.

Find out more

InspirationED | HSC Live – March Seminars

March 11 to March 19, 2023

Attend our ACE the HSC lecture and choose from a range of subject-specific seminars.

Subjects include:

• English – Advanced & Standard
• Mathematics – Advanced & Standard
• Science – Biology, Chemistry & Physics
• HSIE – Business Studies & Legal Studies
• PDHPE

Our teachers are acknowledged by their peers as the most passionate, qualified and experience in the HSC.

Each session contains a detailed syllabus review which includes particular focus on the more difficult sections of the syllabus.

Participants will receive a set of comprehensive notes, questions and exemplar responses.

Find out more

Basair | Pilot Career Seminar, Sydney

March 13, 2023

Learn about career paths, salaries, entry level jobs, qualifications, pilot courses and everything you need to know about becoming a Commercial Pilot in less than a year at Basair.

Find out more  

University of Sydney | Info Night – Fairfield

March 14, 2023

Discover why the University of Sydney is the right place for you! Chat with current students and alumni from South West Sydney who are studying a variety of our degrees. Learn about admission requirements, entry schemes, pathways, fees, scholarships, other financial assistance and support services we offer from our expert staff and UAC representatives. We’ll be serving light refreshments for you to enjoy during the event.

Find out more

UNSW | Year 12 Medicine Information Evening

March 14, 2023  6.30 – 7.30pm

UNSW’s Medicine Information Evening, for current year 12 students, will provide insight into the dynamic blend of hands-on clinical experiences and research-focused learning that you will be immersed in as a UNSW Medicine student. You’ll also find out detailed information on the application and admissions process for 2024 entry, including special entry schemes such as Indigenous Entry Schemes.

Find out more

ADFA Careers Information Session, Sydney

March 14, 2023 6.30 – 7.30pm

Would you like the opportunity to undertake military training while earning a degree? All without debt – in fact, we’ll pay you!  Head to the upcoming info session to speak with current serving military personnel and learn more about the Australian Defence Force Academy.

Find out more

Australian National University Open Day

Saturday 18 March

ANU Open Day is your chance to tour the campus and accommodation, learn about the academic colleges, degree programs and support services, and chat to current students about campus life and their ANU experiences. View the program and register at https://openday.anu.edu.au/ 

Important Future Events

Create for a Day at SAE

April 15 to April 29, 2023

SAE Institute is opening its doors this April for a one-day program, designed to expand your skills and get you working on inspiring creative projects in the fields of Animation, Audio, Design, Film, Games, Music Production, or Songwriting.

Don’t miss out on your chance to experience life as an SAE student and discover what it means to be a creative professional, in state-of-the-art facilities with industry experts by your side.

During the workshop, attendees will learn valuable practical and collaborative skills to build a creative piece of work! They will also receive a certificate of participation to acknowledge the creative project they have undertaken.

Due to the level of workshop content, this event is open to school students aged 15 years and above (Year 10 and over).

Find out more

ICMS Subject Selection evening

Year 10 Subject Selection Evening 16 June, 2023, 6pm – 8pm

Parents, teachers & students in Year 10 are invited to join this info session. Gain tips for admission from a representative of UAC, chat to current ICMS students, and have your questions answered by members of the Domestic Development Team. Express your interest in attending to Carmen – cherin@icms.edu.au 02 9466 1036.

NIE: 11 Day Career Experience for School Students in Sydney

January 2024

Medicine, Psychology, Engineering , Business Management, Creative Writing, International Relations, Veterinary Studies 3 – 13 Jan 2024 at the University of Sydney for students 13 – 18 years of age. Enquiries: (02) 4367 0404 or mob. 0412 439 115 / enquiries@nie.edu.au All details following via the link: https://www.nie.edu.au/academic-insights-program

Early Entry Quick Facts

If you’re in Year 12 this year, you’ve probably already started thinking about university. But you don’t need to wait until the end of the year – early entry programs are more popular than ever.

Early entry gives you the chance to receive an offer to uni before you’ve finished your exams. This can give you peace of mind and help you be more relaxed during what can be a stressful time.

We’ve put together some interesting stats about early entry over the last year, and what you might be able to expect this year.

Download as a PDF here.

Scholarships

Scholarships for Students Experiencing Financial Difficulty

Going to university can be really expensive – not only do you need to think about course fees, there’s also the cost of textbooks, technology, travel to and from campus or accommodation fees, and more. It can be easy to be put off studies because of the cost, but there is help out there. Lots of universities offer scholarships for students experiencing financial difficulty.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for one of these scholarships, you’ll need to be experiencing some kind of financial hardship. This can be that your parents are facing financial difficulty, or yourself if you’re independent. Some universities will specify an exact amount you need to be earning less than, while others test on a case-by-case basis.

There are different ways universities verify your eligibility, but it’s usually done by seeing whether you receive means-tested Centrelink benefits, or by providing a statutory declaration.

Top scholarships for students experiencing financial difficulty

If you’re facing financial disadvantage and are looking for a scholarship to help, here are some of the best ones we’ve found:

University of Newcastle Ma & Morley Scholarship Program – this scholarship has a special category for people who have faced educational disadvantage, including financial difficulties. It’s worth up to $75,000 and includes a China immersion experience.

Griffith Chancellor’s Scholarships – worth between $11,000 and $22,000, these scholarships are designed to help students who have faced financial and educational struggles.

UAC Equity Scholarships – a large suite of scholarships available from many different unis designed to help students from low socio-economic backgrounds.

Deakin Student Support Scholarship – offers up to $10,000 per year for students facing financial difficulty.

SATAC Equity Scholarships – scholarships for students in financial need studying at the University of South Australia. 

You can find lots more scholarship opportunities on our database here.

Some scholarships you may be interested in:

Torrens University – Vogue Australia 50% Design Scholarship

Open: March 1, 2023

Closes: May 22, 2023

Value: 50% reduction of your course fee 

Course changes

An initial teacher education course, this new double degree is fast-tracked so students will be able to graduate with an undergraduate degree and a postgraduate teaching qualification in just four years. Find out more: https://www.acu.edu.au/course/bachelor-of-artsmaster-of-teaching-secondary?type=Domestic&campus=Strathfield

Competitions, Courses and Workshops

JMC Academy High School Competitions

JMC Academy are launching their 2023 competitions – The Mocktails, The Canvas Art Award and Song writing Competition! The competitions are open to Year 9 – 12 students. For more information, please go to https://www.jmcacademy.edu.au/teachers-resources/competitions-for-your-students/

The Whitlam Institute’s annual What Matters? Writing Competition (Western Sydney University)

The What Matters writing competition is back for 2023! Entries can be fiction, non-fiction, poetry or prose of 600 words or less, and can be submitted quickly online. Open to students years 5-12. 

Entries close on Friday, 5 May 2023. 

Find out more: https://www.whitlam.org/what-matters?cid=em:EGMT-CAA-news-WritingMatters-FOM_Feb23  

Ms Leonie Clarke, Post-School Pathways Coordinator 

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

Dance News

On Wednesday 1 March senior dance students of the College had a rare opportunity to work with Sally Dashwood as part of the SCS HSC Masterclass Program. Students worked through the technical and performance requirements of their Core Performance dance with a focus on refining their performances through variation of dynamics and accuracy of placement. 

Talent Development Program Dance Companies have launched into 2023 with enthusiasm. Over 95 students are enrolled to participate in TDP throughout 2023. The program warmly welcomes returning tutors and alumni Miss Olivia, Miss Esther and Miss Ashleigh who foster creativity and challenge each student to achieve their personal best in the area of Dance.

Keep an eye out for eisteddfod dates upcoming for the end of Term 2. 

Year 7 History

Year 7 had an exciting introduction to History in 2023. Students had the opportunity to be archaeologists, conducting their own archaeological dig in class using cookies as their inquiry site. Students had to dig chocolate chip ‘artefacts’ out of their cookies site and reflect on the challenges an archaeologists faces handling delicate artefacts.

Year 11 Geography Fieldwork

On Tuesday, Year 11 Geography students had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Bicentennial Park Wetlands for an exciting and educational excursion. The purpose of this trip was to help the students understand the biophysical interactions of the wetlands, as well as to learn about the important role that wetlands play in our ecosystem.

During the excursion, the students were taken on a guided tour of the wetlands by an experienced park ranger. They were able to observe and learn about the various plant and animal species that live in the wetlands, including the important role they play in maintaining the ecosystem. The students were also able to observe the different water and land features that make up the wetlands, and how they interact with each other.

The students were actively engaged in the learning process throughout the excursion, asking questions and sharing their observations with each other. They were able to apply the knowledge they have learned in their Geography and Science classes to better understand the biophysical interactions of the wetlands.

Overall, the Year 11 excursion to the Bicentennial Park Wetlands was a great success. The students had an enjoyable and educational experience, gaining a better understanding of the importance of wetlands in our ecosystem. 

Thank you to the Sydney Olympic Park staff who helped make this excursion possible, and to the students for engaging positively on such a hot day!

We look forward to more exciting learning opportunities in the future.

Round 1 Public Speaking Results

Last Friday our Public Speaking representatives began a remarkable season filled with outstanding performances and impressive victories.

Our Speakers have devoted countless hours of hard work and dedication to hone their skills and refine their craft. From crafting compelling speeches to delivering them with grace and conviction, our teams have demonstrated unwavering commitment to excellence and passion for public speaking.

Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, competing against tough competition four MSCW Students have been selected to advance to the Zone Finals next week.

Special Congratulations to: 

Ava Marangon, Year 7
Angelina Severino, Year 8
Sophie Murphy, Year 8
Leia Gonzales, Year 9
Alissa Tosh, Year 9

These achievements are a testament to their talent and determination, and we could not be more proud of their accomplishments.

Congratulations to all of our students who participated in this years competition, your courage and determination as Marist women has made everyone immensely proud. Thank you for stepping up and participating.

Congratulations to: 

Natalie Broom, Year 12
Claudia Walker, Year 12
Monet Lobina, Year 11
Sienna McCarthy, Year 11
Harriet O’Connor, Year 9
Jacinta Da Silva, Year 9
Alanah O’Donovan, Year 7

I would like to give a special thanks to our Public Speaking and Debating Captains,

Gabriella Michalopoulos and Natalie Broom have been working with all of our speakers over the past weeks to hone their craft. 

Thank you to all the staff who have helped trial, practice and review speeches. Our success is a collective MSCW Success. 

We look forward to seeing what the future holds for our public speaking teams and are confident that they will continue to excel and make us proud. 

WSU Welcome to Woolwich Day

On Thursday 2 March, the WSU Co-Captains, Charlotte O’Brien and Clare Thomas, ably assisted by their “Vice Presidents”, Remy and Alexa, organised and led a team of volunteers for the “WSU Welcome to Woolwich”. Remy also did a great job as Santa during the WSU 2022 Christmas activities. During recess, teams of helpers gave out Zooper Doopers to the entire College. It was great seeing students from all years step forward to help hand out the iceblocks to a very happy and boisterous crowd. There were smiles, laughs, tears of happiness, and some students were so happy about the Zooper Doopers that they even hugged the WSU volunteers! In the days before the WSU Welcome to Woolwich Day, there was much excited chatter around the College grounds about the prospect of a free Zooper Dooper. The muggy and humid weather on the day saw the refreshing treats well received.

The Welcome to Woolwich is one of the WSU’s initiatives to create some “buzz” around the College and maintain student wellbeing. The Zooper Doopers were totally funded with money raised from the 10c return tubs that the WSU placed around the College grounds last year. All funds raised by the WSU are ploughed back into initiatives. It is fantastic that more and more students are using this recycling facility and that students are checking their containers. 

Sports News

The MSCW Swimming Team competed in the Sydney Catholic Schools Swimming Conference 2 Championships at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre on Tuesday 7 March.
The team dominated in the pool and the atmosphere was fantastic with the MSCW spirit a highlight of the night. I think the amount of energy the students created probably has not been
felt at the pool since the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Congratulations to the following students on their fantastic results:

12 Years Age Champion – Melissa Bridge
13 Years Age Champion – Olivia Treadwell
14 Years Age Champion – Maya Ostapenko

12-14 Years All Abilities Age Champion – Emma Websdale
15 Years Age Champion – Angela Lakic
17 Years Age Champion – Ava Gibson

Overall results:
 Junior Age Swimming Champions
 Senior Age Swimming Champions
 Overall Champions
 
 An awesome achievement!

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

MSCW Swim Carnival 2023

It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and level of participation by all the students, with a number of records being broken.

Congratulations to the following students who broke records on the day:

The atmosphere was awesome with the MSCW Spirit a highlight of the day.

Best “House Spirit” as judged by Dr Anne Ireland throughout the day was awarded to:

1. Chanel, Chavoin, Jaricot & Marcellin
2. Colin & Jaricot

Congratulations to Perroton House with the most participation points.

Chavoin House who put in an outstanding performance to finish first in 3.39.28 in the House Relay.

Chavoin was represented by:

Congratulations to the 2023 Swimming Age Champions and Runners Up.

Overall House Champions

Congratulations to Chavoin House who are the 2023 Swimming Champions.

1st	Chavoin
2nd	Marcellin
3rd	Collin

A big thank you to all the staff who helped make the carnival so successful and congratulations to all the students on their behaviour and Marist Spirit shown throughout the day.

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

Sports Results

Round 4

MVP

Round 5

MVP

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #2, #6 & #8

Butterfly Foundation

Butterfly Foundation – Body Confident Children and Teens Webinar  

It can be hard for children and teens to be accepting of and confident in their bodies. It can also be hard for parents/carers to know what to say or how best to support them. Hear from the experts at Butterfly on how to help your child towards a positive body image.

For: Parents/carers of primary and secondary age children

Covers: Body image influences | Importance of positive body image| Positive role modelling | Reducing toxic body talk| Responding to appearance bullying | What to do if concerned | Resources and supports

Date: Tuesday, 21st March 2023

Time: 7pm – 8.15pm (AEDT)

Format: Live, via Zoom (time limited recording available)

Cost: $15

Register: https://events.butterfly.org.au/portal/event/?id=EP_BCCT_Parent_Webinar3010766952&Name=21/03/23%20BCCT%20Parent%20Webinar

Maths Club and International PI Day

Canteen News

Calling on volunteers

St Anthony’s Primary School Fair