From the Principal

Welcome Back to the 2022 School Year! 

To commence our 2022 year, a special welcome to our new Year 7 students and their families! The staff and I extend a very warm welcome to those students who are joining our Marist College community for the first time. By taking the many opportunities we provide here at MSCW, you will thrive.

I would also like to warmly welcome the new members to the College Leadership Team: 

Leader of Wellbeing – Ms Angela Bowland

This role primarily focuses on initiating and leading change to promote a positive culture of wellbeing within the College. Ms Bowland also joins the Religious Education faculty.

Leader of Information Networks – Mrs Jeannie Scevity

This role primarily focuses on ensuring school-wide knowledge of contemporary and emerging technologies and their application, as well as overseeing COMPASS and developing COMPASS responses to the changing needs and processes within the College. Mrs Scevity also joins the Science faculty.

Instructional Specialist – Mrs Melissa Carson

This role primarily focuses on continually ‘raising the bar’ on the highest quality instruction of teaching and learning, being a mentor and coach, as well as modelling effective classroom pedagogy to build the capacity of our staff. Mrs Carson also joins the English faculty.

Leader of Learning and Curriculum – Mr Justin Hodges

Mr Hodges moves into this role to lead learning and curriculum development. In this role, he will work very closely with the Subject Coordinators.

 

We have been fortunate to recruit a quality group of new staff. As a community, we welcome the following new members of staff:

Teaching Staff

Mr Basso – Mathematics teacher

Mr Bray – HSIE teacher   

Ms Chappell – Mathematics teacher

Ms Graham – English teacher

Mrs Healey – TAS teacher

Mr Leonard – Science teacher

Miss Negrine – Visual Arts teacher

Miss Shippen – Music / VET Entertainment teacher

Ms Spurr – Colin House Coordinator and PDHPE teacher

Support Staff

Mrs Armstrong – Teacher Aide

I welcome back Ms Laura Peacock and Mrs Rosalie Gossow who were on leave in 2021.

An introduction from each of these staff members appears later in this newsletter.

College Opening Mass

On Wednesday, we celebrated our College Opening Mass. As part of this celebration, we bought forth our Marist Heart. Our Marist Heart is a symbol of the great love of Christ. 

As Marists, we follow Christ by ‘thinking, judging, feeling and acting’ as Mary in all things. Her presence is kept alive by living her spirit of faithfulness and compassionate service so that others feel God’s tender and merciful love. By adopting Mary’s approach, each of us can walk in the shoes of others with ‘delicacy and sensitivity’, holding them close to our hearts. This is why the symbolism of a heart is a significant symbol for us as Marists.

Within our Marist Heart, the names of every member of the College community was printed on a scroll. This is a way of holding dear those in our community who need our love and support.

At this special celebration we also acknowledge three significant events: 

Firstly, the launch of our College Strategic Plan, which is below. This new Strategic Plan has been developed to ensure that Marist Sisters’ College continues to be a dynamic community providing opportunities for our young women to thrive.

College Strategic Plan 2022 – 2025

The second significant event was the traditional badging of our Year 7 and Year 11 students. This formal badging welcomes Year 7 and acknowledges the beginning of their adventures at MSCW, while for Year 11 the accepting of the Senior badge continues their responsibility, as a Marist girl, to search for further inspiration from Mary as their role model and, as Seniors, to be a positive role model for all students.

Our third event welcomed our new staff by presenting them with a College candle. In presenting them with a College candle, we pray that they experience the power of the Spirit and the presence of Mary as a member of Marist Sisters’ College. 

Unfortunately, due to COVID restrictions, there is still limited access for parents to the College grounds. The following events will still proceed – either using live streaming or Zoom. Specific details of these events will be provided at a time closer to the event.

• Year 11 Parent Information Night: 15 February, 7.00pm
• High Achievers Assembly: 16 February, 9.00am 
• Year 7 Newman Parent Night: 16 February, 6.00pm

Monday is our annual Swimming Carnival. Best of luck to each House as they battle it out in the pool.

Welcome again to 2022 and I look forward to a productive and successful year ahead. 

 

From the Assistant Principal

Welcome to the 2022 school year. It is great to have all students back on school grounds. The explosion of excitement during our first days back saw the familiar buzz of MSCW return as well, a buzz that always confirms my appreciation for being a part of this wonderful community. We had the privilege this week of opening our school year with the Opening Mass. It is always a special time when our community comes together to celebrate. It was an opportunity to welcome and bless our Year 7s and new staff to the College, and recognise our Year 11 students as members of our Senior community. 

As we begin the new year, we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, to ensure our students return to school in a safe way but also experience all aspects of school life. I would like to thank our parents who have supported this transition with such short notice.

Our current COVID-safe practices are in line with the Public Health Order which schools are a part of. A summary is below:

Key Features of Our College Safety Plan:

• Cohorting 
• Staff and students are mandated to wear masks indoors and it is highly recommended they are worn outdoors
• Classrooms are well ventilated
• Restrictions on visitors. When visitors are onsite and providing a service to the College they are required to be double vaccinated.
• A rigorous schedule of cleaning, sanitising and distancing
• All staff are double vaccinated

Masks

Masks are required by law to be worn at all times on public transport, this includes school specials and private chartered buses. Health NSW guidelines indicate masks need to be well fitted surgical masks or N95 masks. Cloth and vented masks are not recommended.

Rapid Antigen Testing Program

This week the College distributed the RAHT kits to all students for testing to occur in Week 3 and 4. I ask for the support of parents and carers in ensuring that their daughters are tested on a Monday and Wednesday morning at home before coming to school. Thank you again for your support in this process.

A Positive RAHT 

If you receive a positive result it is important that you log that result with NSW Health through Service NSW and call the College Attendance office to report your positive result. Once you have registered a positive result with NSW Health they will provide a Medical Clearance Notice. Please attach this notice to your daughter’s COMPASS attendance note. Your child and members of your household will need to isolate for seven days.

A Negative RAHT 

If a test is negative students can attend school as normal, there is no need to report a negative result.

Students who have already had COVID, do not need to test for 28 days from the day they tested positive unless symptoms reappear. This also applies to isolation periods.

COVID Symptoms 

It is important that everyone is vigilant regarding their health and their children’s health. Please do not send your child to school if they have any COVID symptoms (including runny nose, cough, fever, sore throat) even if they have returned a negative RAHT test. This is important for the safety of all our staff, students and their families.

Over the last week, you would have received communication via COMPASS when the College has had a confirmed positive case. It is a requirement that schools identify the cohort to parents of that year group and the wider community is alerted to the positive case. The number of notifications you receive can be overwhelming, however, it is important that you monitor your daughter for symptoms following this communication. 

School Events

Activities such as excursions, camps and sports have returned and will be managed according to COVID-safe practices and advice provided by NSW Health, the Department of Education and Sydney Catholic Schools. All school events that occur offsite will require COVID-19 consent from parents. Consent will be required for external School events via COMPASS. For events such as camps and retreats, it is mandatory for all students to engage in a Rapid Antigen Test on the morning of the event prior to coming to school. This information will be made clear in the event notification you will receive via COMPASS.

Finally, I take this opportunity to remind parents/carers and students of the following expectations of the College

Personal Presentation

I  would like to congratulate most students and their families on the way in which they have presented themselves on return to the College. The wearing of the College uniform reflects our College to the wider community and the expectation, therefore, is that all students maintain a high standard of neatness while wearing our uniform. It is important that all students adhere to our expectations and in advance, I wish to thank all of the parents and guardians for their support in this matter. 

Mobile Phones

I would like to remind students that there is to be no use of mobile devices from the time a student enters the College gates until the final bell at 3.15 pm. Where a student needs to make contact with home/parents during the course of the school day, students should attend the General Administration Office to use the College phone or seek permission to use their mobile device in Pieta Place. Please be reminded that messaging or texting on a mobile device is inappropriate and will result in devices being confiscated.

My best wishes to each student and each family as we begin our year together in 2022! 

 

 

 

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

From the Religious Education Coordinator

What’s Been Happening in Religious Education

Welcome to all in our College community as we commence our new school year. I trust you had a rest-filled holiday break, spending time with family and friends. It has been wonderful seeing the students start back at school these past two weeks. We are blessed to be part of a lively school community. 

We look forward to the year in hope, as we continue to celebrate our Catholic faith and spirituality, which is an important facet of our College community. Part of our core work as educators in Catholic schools is to work in partnership with you in educating the whole person. We look forward to doing that through our Religious Education programs and through our faith experiences such as prayer, liturgical celebrations and the Marists in Action group.

Opening College Mass 

The Opening College Mass was celebrated at the College on Wednesday 9 February by Fr Brian Wilson and Fr Aliki Langi from Holy Name of Mary Parish Hunters Hill. Thank you Mrs Caroline Marsh, the House Liturgy Captains (Aleyah, Claudia, Natasha, Ava, Arianna and Eliza), the Student Leaders and the College ISOs – Charles and Claudia, Sam and David – for all their support in facilitating the preparation for the celebration of the Mass.

Year 12 Retreat

Year 12 students will be attending the Retreat at Le Rosey, The Hermitage Mittagong in Week 4 in their House Groups. Please keep Year 12 in your prayers while they are on Retreat.

To Know Worship and Love Textbooks

All students in Years 7-10 are to have purchased the e-textbook, To Know Worship and Love from Campion. Teachers are not able to provide material from the e-textbook to students who have not purchased it.

Vinnies Update

I would like to share with you the Term 1 2022, Vinnies Metro Schools & Youth Newsletter. The online link can be found here: https://bit.ly/Term1-2022-Vinnies-Metro-News

 

As we begin this new College year, may we be open to God working in and through us.

 

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

From the Leader of Wellbeing

2022 Alludes to Symmetry that is Broken by Zero (Nothing)

Over the last two years, the community of Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich has demonstrated resilience, grit and empathy, which has enabled all to bounce forward. This was reflected in the joyful eyes that greeted others on Day 1 of this year, the celebration of the Eucharist that connected us on Wednesday of this week and the successes of the Graduating Class of 2021.

Resilience, grit and empathy were demonstrated by Mary, under whose name the College exists, when she ‘arose and went with haste’ to visit her cousin Elizabeth some distance away (Luke 1:39). Like Mary, the community places Virtus Super Omnia (Goodness Above All). This has fostered positive wellbeing.

2022 will be a year of growth for our students who will be supported by all staff, especially their Tutor Teacher who will be led by the Wellbeing Team. We are a collaborative team of action. 

The MSCW Wellbeing Team will continue to engage in Professional Learning throughout 2022 to ensure that they continue to provide support for growth in your daughter’s wellbeing and learning.

2022 Wellbeing Team

	Assistant Leader of Wellbeing:	Ms Gemma Muller
	Chavoin	Mr Joshua Allen
	Chanel	Mrs Jocelyn Kemp
	Colin	Ms Grace Spurr
	Jaricot	Mr David Greenwell
	Marcellin	Mrs Carolyn Criss
	Perroton	Mrs Jenna Cremin
	College Counsellor	Mrs Louise Scuderi

 

A Time of Transition

To start their 2022 academic year, both Year 7 and Year 11 were involved in independent transition programs. These programs were devised to assist our young women as they navigate a significant area of transition in their life:

• Primary School to Secondary School 
• Junior Student to Senior Student

Year 7 were inducted into the community and learnt what it means to be a valued member of the Marist Sisters’ community. Year 11 were taught skills that will support them as they ‘step up’ and take on additional responsibilities in learning and as school leaders as the year progresses.

These programs were devised under the direction of Ms Gemma Muller the Assistant Leader of Wellbeing, who worked with staff including the House Co-ordinators and Key Learning Co-ordinators.

The students shone, especially the Student Leaders who gave of themselves to lead the activities in the Year 7 transition program. They demonstrated for all students present what it means to be Marist, as they embodied the College motto and placed ‘Goodness Above All’.

My Marist Compass Goals – Save the Date: Wednesday 16 March 2022

 

This process involves a journey with the young women of the College as they initiate an action plan with achievable goals that will enable them to develop into independent, autonomous learners who have agency over their future direction.  

On Wednesday 16 March 2022 from 8.30 am – 7 pm, Tutors, parents and students will be involved in a three-way, 20-minute interview led by the student using the ZOOM platform. 

There will be no classes on this day, however, it is a mandatory expectation that each student between Years 7-12 will attend via ZOOM with their parent(s) to discuss their realistic and achievable goals for 2022.

More details will follow shortly.

School TV

School TV continues to be provided for you to engage with as you navigate your daughter’s stages of development. An online resource that proves you with the most up-to-date information on a range of areas directly related to the wellbeing of young people, specifically girls. From time to time we will bring to your attention specific publications via the SchoolTV website that you can access with ease via the MSCW Cloudshare page and via COMPASS School Favourites (the grey star icon located at the top of the COMPASS homepage).

The Wellbeing Team is looking forward with joy to working with both you and your daughter in 2022 as we strive to build a community of young women who are encompassed in positive relationships that bring out their very best, allowing them to be empowered to be courageous in both their learning and in life.

If you have any concerns in relation to your daughter’s wellbeing, please contact her Tutor Teacher here at the College.

 

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

From the Leader of Learning and Curriculum

During O-Week workshops, students engaged with Elevate Education in a study skills workshop. With the return to school, and after lessons this week, it is vital that students establish a homework and study routine for after school.

Has your daughter created a study timetable and placed it on the fridge?

Reflection Questions that Might Start a Conversation at Home:

How much learning should students be doing each night?

The general guidelines are that Junior students should be doing around one hour of self-learning most nights,

Senior students between two to three hours most nights. They need to be accountable for 18 hours in Year 11 and 20 hours in Year 12.

But what if my daughter says she has no homework?

In primary school, students are used to just doing the work their teacher specifically tells them to do. Many students do not realise that things should be different in secondary school; there are two types of learning students should be doing:

• The first is compulsory work such as homework, assignments and preparing for tests. 
• The second type of work is independent learning work. 

If students have no homework that night, they are expected to undertake independent learning in secondary school. This could be reviewing what they have learnt that week, making a mind map, reading ahead, researching an area of interest, making study notes or reviewing complex concepts.

Can you listen to music while studying?

The general rule is that if students are undertaking learning that is not difficult, it is OK to listen to music. It makes them feel relaxed and makes them feel like the time is going quicker. However, if they are doing work that requires intense concentration or memorisation, it is best to switch the music off (or else have slower music with no vocals such as classical musical). Otherwise, it will take them much longer to absorb and learn the information.

Is it OK for my daughter to do work with devices or in front of the TV?

Unless students are doing something mindless like sticking things on a poster or colouring in, it is best not to do work in front of any devices such as phones or TV. Instead, students should do their home learning in an environment that is as distraction-free as possible. It works well if students do their learning in distinct blocks of time and remove all distractions during those blocks. Some students find they have the self-discipline to manage technological distractions; others need a helping hand – such as their phone in a different room for the half-hour period where they are focusing on schoolwork.

How do I stop my daughter from getting distracted when working on the computer?

Have a discussion with students about doing schoolwork in focused blocks of time so that they can really enjoy their time away from the books (or computer). If students find it challenging to be disciplined, they can also look at self-blocking software such as Self Control (MAC). If students are still struggling, parental management programs such as Family Zone allow families to block particular sites at particular times.

Parents and students can learn more about studying efficiently and effectively by working through the ELES Study Skills Site units. You can find the site via:

COMPASS Portal (Open in Browser) > Star Icon > ELES Handbook

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

New Staff Introductions

Get to know the new staff members who have joined our College community in 2022

 

Teaching Staff

	Andres Basso – Mathematics Teacher Over the last years, I have worked at multiple schools, the most recent being Holy Spirit College Lakemba. I am Maths and Visual Arts trained with a love of teaching both areas. My interests outside of school are working in my art studio, competing in marathons and I’m currently working towards my black belt in Karate.
	Angela Bowland – Leader of Wellbeing Teaching adolescents for over 20 years, Angela has experience as a classroom teacher, Year Coordinator, Religious Education Coordinator and Leader of Student Wellbeing. As a lifelong learner with a passion for learning, Angela has completed a Master of Education in both Religious Education (ACU) and Student Wellbeing (University of Melbourne). Her experience in student wellbeing has been predominantly in an educational setting that is female-focused and academically proficient. Angela has been on the College Leadership Team in three of the five Catholic schools in Sydney she has worked in. Prior to commencing at MSCW, she was the Director of Student Wellbeing for Learning at St Paul’s Catholic College Manly. Angela is a lover of live events (comedy, music, theatre, ballet, opera) and an avid gardener who prefers summer over winter so that she can enjoy the outdoors.
	Angus Bray – HSIE Teacher Before joining the HSIE faculty at MSCW, I studied a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Teaching at the Australian Catholic University. I spent last year teaching at De La Salle Revesby and Marist College Penshurst. I will be teaching 7-10 History and Geography and Year 11 Ancient History, all subjects I have been passionate about since my own high school days. I am very excited about the year ahead!
	Melissa Carson – Instructional Specialist Melissa has joined the Leadership Team as an Instructional Specialist and is an English teacher. She has most recently held the position of Director of Teaching and Learning at Champagnat Catholic College Pagewood. Melissa has held leadership positions in Curriculum, Innovation and Pastoral Care over the last 20 years in various Catholic schools in Sydney. She has several published educational papers and has presented in many educational conferences in Australia and overseas. Outside of school, Melissa is working on her first novel.
	Wendy Chappell – Mathematics Teacher This is my first year at Marist Sisters’ College, teaching Mathematics and as a Tutor for Colin House. Before joining the college, I studied a Master of Teaching at Sydney University and have worked in the superannuation industry for over 20 years. When I am not busy organising my partner and three teenage children, you can find me reading a novel or having a coffee with friends at the local café.
	Shannon Graham – English Teacher A little bit about myself: I have been teaching for a very very long time – I have come from St Patrick’s Marist College at Dundas where I was the English Coordinator as well as teaching Years 7 – 12 English. I left my previous position to be able to focus on the classroom – a place I really enjoy. To move from one Marist family to another is pure bliss! To the parents of the girls I teach – I come to the College with loads of experience. Your daughters are in safe hands. I live locally, I have adult children and a grandson. To the students in my classes – I am really looking forward to us working together as a team to realise our goals and my objective for 2022 is to facilitate and guide you to strive to achieve your personal best.
	Erin Healey – TAS Teacher I previously worked at Trinity Catholic College, Auburn in the Technological and Applied Studies (TAS) Key Learning Area, specialising in Food Technology and Hospitality.
	Ryan Leonard – Science Teacher I’m incredibly excited to start my high school teaching journey at MSCW. Prior to starting here, I worked in the university sector for seven years as a biologist and educator. When I’m not teaching science, you can find me bushwalking or spending time with my dog.
	Lili Negrine – Visual Arts Teacher I am so excited to have joined the MSCW community as a new Visual Arts teacher. As a recent graduate of UNSW, I am looking forward to helping the students explore, experiment and create.
	Jeannie Scevity – Leader of Information Networks Prior to joining MSCW, I had been at Marcellin College Randwick for 18 years. I held the position of Leader of Science for eight years and am an experienced teacher of Chemistry and Biology. I am looking forward to working with the Marist Sisters’ Community.
	Monique Shippen – Music Teacher I am very excited to be joining the Music Department this year! I studied a Bachelor of Contemporary Music at Macquarie University and a Master of Teaching (Secondary) at UNSW while performing regular gigs around Sydney. After teaching private singing, keyboard lessons and songwriting workshops for two years, I fell in love with teaching music and the joy it brings students. From a young age, I started singing, acting, playing the keyboard and guitar and was a member of the St Mary’s Cathedral Choir (Girls) throughout high school. I have been fortunate enough to be involved in a wide range of musical theatre productions and vocal ensembles. After graduating from school, I released my own album, as songwriting is my greatest passion. I am looking forward to helping students work on their wonderful talents!
	Grace Spurr – Colin House Coordinator / PDHPE Teacher Prior to joining the Marist Sisters College Woolwich community, I taught at Mount Saint Benedict College from 2012 to 2021 in the PDHPE faculty. There I held the position of Head of House – Terracina for seven years. Being a passionate PDHPE teacher, and developing and facilitating many wellbeing programs across my career, I am excited about my new start at MSCW and look forward to supporting students in my classes and the Colin House to lead healthy and happy lives.

 

Support Staff

Sandra Armstrong – Teacher Aide I am a Chartered Accountant and have a background in Insolvency, Small Business and Taxation. I was a Girl Guide leader for many years, and I’m still involved in my local unit. I love children and I’m looking forward to my new role as a Learning Support Officer in the Learning Enrichment Team.

From the College Counsellor

I welcome everyone back as the new school year begins and particularly want to extend a warm welcome to our new families and Year 7 students.

A new year, new school, new grade brings with it new faces, new opportunities and a fresh start. This may be a time of apprehension about your child leaving old friends from primary school behind and forming new friendships. Others may do a reshuffling of friendship groups and this can present a few hurdles. 

It’s very normal for friendships to change. You might notice that your child drifts away from old friends or needs support to make new friends. For a young person, the ability to handle and work through friendship changes and/or conflict can build resilience and confidence. 

Managing different relationships is part of life. A young person will need space and time to form friendships with like-minded people who share their interests and values and who bring out their best qualities. 

We learn through experience, whether positive or negative, and stress is an uncomfortable reality of life. As parents, we often want to step in and ‘fix’ a situation that is causing distress. Being warm and supportive, staying connected and actively listening to your child can help them develop friendship skills and help with navigating those friendships that may dwindle or end. Your child still needs you and the secure base you provide. Being interested and available (and non-judgemental) lets your child know that they can turn to you when they need to. 

Helping your child to work on positive social traits such as being fair and supportive, and to learn positive coping strategies, also has benefits not only now but in the long run. 

If you would like to discuss the above or have any concerns about your daughter, please feel free to contact the College Counsellor, Louise Scuderi via louise.scuderi@syd.catholic.edu.au or phone the College on (02) 9816 2041. 

 

 

HSC Results

HSC 2021: The best results ever achieved

 

Congratulations to the Marist Sisters’ College 2021 Year 12 Class on achieving our school’s best HSC results ever!

“These results were the best academic performance in the 114-year history of the College,” Dr Anne Ireland, the Principal of Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich, said. “Our girls triumphed despite the challenges COVID placed before them.”

Sydney Catholic Schools as a system also achieved its best HSC results ever, with 11 of its 33 schools ranked among the top 100 high schools in NSW. Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich climbed 40 positions to 87th in the media rankings (calculated using the ratio of the number of Band 6 results to the number of exams sat by the school).

The College also had the fifth-highest number of Distinguished Achievers from all SCS high schools.

“Our College community was delighted to see the outstanding HSC results achieved by the class of 2021,” Dr Ireland said. “These exceptional results represent the fruits of several school-wide learning programs put in place, as well as the strong resolve of students and teachers to improve and set new academic benchmarks.”

To cap off an incredible 2021, 18 Sydney Catholic Schools ranked among the top 150 high schools and confirmed its reputation as one of the top-performing systems of schools in Australia. Sydney Catholic Schools’ unprecedented academic success saw its schools reach new heights with the number of distinguished achievers rising from 2486 in 2019 and 2511 in 2020 to 3115 in 2021.

“To the class of 2021, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and admiration,” Sydney Catholic Schools’ Executive Director, Tony Farley, said.

The results follow a series of ground-breaking HSC excellence initiatives that involved all 33 secondary schools meeting to share and analyse HSC performance data, identify key strategies for achieving academic success and find ways to share resources and opportunities across our 33 schools sitting the HSC.

“Our system-wide approach to excellence means that every student and teacher has access to a huge range of resources and experiences that a large system like ours can provide,” Sydney Catholic Schools’ Director of Education and Research, Dr Kate O’Brien, said.

Here’s a recap of all our 2021 HSC highlights:

• 87th on the SMH list of Top 150 Schools in the State (compared to 128th in 2020)
• 1 student received 2 mentions on the HSC Top Achievers list, placing 4th and 3rd within their course for Business Studies and Studies of Religion II respectively
• 6 students named on the All Rounders Merit list for scoring above 90 in at least 10 units (compared to 2 students in 2020)
• 56 students received 156 mentions on the Distinguished Achievers list for achieving a result in the highest band (Band 6 or Band E4) for one or more courses, not including results for courses studied external to their school (compared to 48 students in 2020)
• 4 students placed first in their course within the Sydney Archdiocese
• 94% of HSC courses scored above the state average
• 100% of HSC Extension courses scored above the state average
• Highest ATAR 99.55
• 1 student nominated for ARTEXPRESS (Visual Arts)
• 1 student nominated for OnSTAGE (Performing Arts)
• 1 student nominated for Texstyle (Textiles and Design)
• 1 student nominated for Shape (Textiles and Design)
• 8 students selected for the SCS HSC Creative & Performing Arts Showcase

Jarnosse News

Study Skills Tip For February

Having run over 5000 study skills seminars over the last 20 years, Dr Prue Salter has been asked many questions about study skills. Below are some of the common questions parents ask:

Should you type or handwrite study notes?

If the exam will be handwritten, students are better to handwrite study notes. This creates muscle memory and helps student practise their handwriting skills. However, many students prefer to type their study notes as it is so much easier to organise the information. If students choose to type when they are learning their notes they need to read a section, see what they can write down without looking and check and see if they were correct. This will help them practise their handwriting skills while committing the information to memory.

My student doesn’t seem to know how to study, what should they be doing?

Sadly many students think that studying for a test just means reading their notes over and over. This is the slowest and most ineffective way of studying. Studying involves three steps. The first is to make study notes or summaries on what they have been learning. The second is to learn the notes by testing themselves over and over on the information to be retained. The last step is to do as much practise as possible – the more different questions they can do, and preferably under time constraints, the better they will be prepared. Remember that we all learn in different ways so there is scope to allow students to use techniques that suit their individual learning style, such as recording notes to listen to.

How can students get more organised?

The first step is to work out what area of organisation you want to target. Books, computer files, locker, diary, desk, folders…the list goes on. There is no point saying to a student ‘you need to be more organised’. Instead, identify an area where there could be an improvement. Then, with your student, work out specific strategies to implement to address this issue. Once this issue is under control, then move on to the next problem.

What time should students go to bed?

Although it varies, most students need at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Therefore, work backwards. Allow an hour or so for students to get ready for bed and fall asleep, then work backwards to the time they need to get up for school. Have students pay attention to how they feel in the morning – they may need less or more sleep than the average.

How can I get my student motivated to do their work?

There is no quick or easy fix for lack of motivation. There are quite a number of strategies to try, but they all take time and effort and persistence. 

 

Parents and students can learn more about studying efficiently and effectively by working through the units on www.studyskillshandbook.com.au.

Our school’s access details are:

Username: MSCW

Password: 93success

**Parents and students can access the site directly through the student Cloudshare page → Jarnosse → Online Resources → clicking the ELES link as shown below.

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

Gifted and Talented Report

Newman Selective Gifted Education Program

The Sydney Catholic Schools Gifted and Talented Policy opens with this quote from the Gospel of John.

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

 

Sports at MSCW in Term 1 2022

Sport is back at MSCW! 

Once again it will be an extremely busy term of Sports, with Years 7-10 Thursday Sports and Years 7-12 Representative Sports competitions already commencing in Week 2.

The College is part of Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Sports, which provides students with the opportunity to compete against other schools in our conference on Thursday afternoons.

Sports news will be distributed to students via COMPASS, emails, the College’s Newsletter and announcements at Principal’s Assemblies.  

Years 7-10 Thursday Sports Program

Term 1 

On Thursday Sports days, all students must wear their full sports uniform to/from school and bring their MSCW Sports cap. Students should check their emails/COMPASS for details about Sports groups.

Years 7 and 9 Sports	every Day 4 (Week 1 of Timetable)
Years 8 and 10 Sports	every Day 9 (Week 2 of Timetable)

 

Sports

Year 7	Year 8	Year 9	Year 10
Multi Sports	AFL Skills	Yoga	Cross Fit
Flag Gridiron	Cricket Skills	CrossFit	Tennis
Learn to Dragon Boat	Learn to Dragon Boat	Tae Kwon do	Boxercise
NSW Football Skills	Oz Tag	Tennis	Yoga
Hip-Hop	Jazz/Funk Dance	Fitness Games	Circuit Training
Acro Stretch Dance	Lyrical Dance	Boxercise	Fitness Games

 

Representative Sports

Teams will be selected to represent the College for the Sydney Catholic Schools Sports competitions. Trials for the following teams were held during Weeks 1-2:

SCS Sports	Start Date	Finishing Date	Venue
Touch Football Junior Team Year 7 & 8 Open Team Year 9 & 10 Senior Team Year 11 & 12	Week 2	Week 10	Meadowbank Park
Basketball Junior Team Year 7 & 8 Open Team Year 9 & 10 Senior Team Year 11 & 12	Week 2	Week 10	Auburn & Marrickville
Waterpolo Junior Team Year 7 & 8 Intermediate Team Year 9 & 10	Week 2	Week 10	Dawn Fraser Baths

 

Sydney Catholic Schools Sports Term 1 

Sydney Catholic Schools Sports Championship Carnivals will be held throughout the year in various sports.  

Students will be required to sign up for trials and attend trials as advised via expression of interest Google Forms.

Sydney Catholic Schools Sports Term 1 (Students leave the College at 12 noon EVERY Thursday and return by 4 pm). Please note that it is College policy that all students involved in Sports off-campus on Thursdays must return to College at the conclusion of the day. 

Term 1 Sports	Date	Venue
Swimming	28 February	Sydney Aquatic Centre
Diving	15 March	Sydney Aquatic Centre

 

Representative Pathway for Elite Sportswomen

Students may also trial for the Sydney Catholic Schools Representative Team to compete at the NSW CCC and NSW All Schools. These trials are extremely competitive and are designed for elite athletes. Please see the information on the CSNSW website. Students are to discuss with Mr Watts prior to registering. Parents/carers must register via the CSNSW.sport portal. For instructions on how to register go to Guide For Parents – Sport Registrations.

Term 1 Individual Nominations Sport Registrations are now open for:

SELECTION TRIAL	REGISTRATION CLOSE DATE
Squash Championship	11/02/2022
Tennis – CCC	18/02/2022
Baseball – CCC	21/02/2022
Softball – CCC	25/02/2022
Volleyball – Open	25/02/2022
Cricket Girls – CCC	1/03/2022
Triathlon – Intermediate	1/03/2022
Triathlon – Junior	1/03/2022
Triathlon – Senior	1/03/2022
Water Polo	11/03/2022
Diving – CCC	21/03/2022
Swimming – CCC	6/04/2022
Rugby 7’s Girls – CCC	8/04/2022
Volleyball – 15 Years & Under	8/04/2022
Australian Football – CCC	20/04/2022
Basketball – CCC	22/04/2022
Hockey	19/05/2022

 

For further information, please refer to the CSNSW Sport website Sports pages

Sports Trials

Trials commenced during Week 1 and students must check emails/ask Mr Watts for further details. Teams were finalised on Wednesday, 9 February of Week 2 and students will be notified. Students are required to wear the Sports uniform for trials. 

These include the following:

• SCS Touch Football Years 7-12
• SCS Basketball Trials Years 7-12
• SCS Waterpolo Trials Years 7-10

Sailing

More information to come.

Sydney Catholic Sports Results

Congratulations to the eight teams that competed in Round 1 of the SCS Sports competition for Term 1. MSCW are off to a solid start for the 2022 Sports year! Keep up the great work, legends! Please see below the results and MVP (Most Valuable Player) for each team.  

Sport	Result	MVP
Touch Football	Junior MSCW, 14 vs Holy Spirit Catholic College, 0
	Intermediate MSCW, 12 vs Holy Spirit Catholic College, 0
	Senior MSCW, 11 vs Holy Spirit Catholic College, 1
Basketball	Junior MSCW, 26 vs Holy Spirit Catholic College, 14
	Intermediate MSCW, 44 vs Holy Spirit Catholic College, 8
	Senior MSCW vs Holy Spirit Catholic College (Forfeit)
Waterpolo	Junior MSCW, 0 vs St Clare’s Catholic College, 10
	Intermediate MSCW, 2 vs St Clare’s Catholic College, 5

 

MSCW Term 1 Sydney Catholic Schools Sports Teams 2022

Thank you to all students who trialled for Term 1 Sports teams over the last two weeks. 

Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent Marist Sisters’ College.

Junior Touch Football Team 2022

Zara Carbone (Year 8)

Ulani Parnell (Year 8)

Caitlin Russell (Year 8)

Galea Keona (Year 8)

Lola Donkin (Year 8)

Ellie Debosz (Year 8)

Riley Caceres (Year 8)

Georgia Sherry (Year 8)

Chloe Phillips (Year 7)

Ivy-Marie Provan (Year 7)

Intermediate Touch Football Team 2022

Gabriella Moar (Year 9)

Isabel Chand (Year 9)

Miah O’Shea (Year 9)

Natalie Russo Russo (Year 9)

Maddison Tannous (Year 9)

Leah Russell (Year 10)

Amelie Fehir (Year 10)

Sienna Wheelhouse (Year 10)

Brianna Kelly (Year 10)

Ellie Barnett (Year 10)

Gabbi Slater (Year 10)

Georgia Southcombe (Year 10)

Senior Touch Football Team 2022

Tatum Kelly (Year 12)

Mia Rodgers (Year 12)

Mackenzee Southcombe (Year 12)

Sophia Lloyd (Year 12)

Lily Doyle (Year 12)

Eliza Pratt (Year 12)

Elisia Georges (Year 12)

Charlie Emery (Year 12)

Giselle Kusto (Year 12)

Alyssa Price (Year 12)

Mia Brown (Year 12)

Grace Fisher (Year 12)

Sasha Devajana (Year 12)

Charlotte O’Brien (Year 11)

Holly Lloyd (Year 11)

Junior Basketball Team 2022

Leila O’Donnell (Year 7)

Elyssa Mertkhanran (Year 7)

Zara Harutoonian (Year 7)

Ellie Comerford (Year 7)

Marie Karkour (Year 7)

Natalie Savazian (Year 8)

Mia Tune (Year 8)

Olivia Haddad (Year 8)

Emelia Dunn (Year 8)

Ruby Betro (Year 7)

Intermediate Basketball Team 2022

Bonita Glassock (Year 10)

Mercedes Davis (Year 10)

Sienna Davis (Year 10)

Alex McKenzie (Year 10)

Claudia Lacalandra (Year 10)

Matilda Gilbert (Year 10)

Jamie Morelli (Year 10)

Olivia Aloisio (Year 9)

Annaliese Klapdor (Year 9)

Claudia Janus (Year 10)

Senior Basketball Team 2022

Anastasia Lakic (Year 12)

Elly Christodoulakis (Year 12)

Emily Elias (Year 11)

Kate Greenland (Year 12)

Daniella Agostino (Year 11)

Victoria Vencel (Year 11)

Abbie Johnson (Year 11)

Maddy Britt (Year 11)

Camille Moussallem (Year 11)

Claudia Walker (Year 11)

Charlotte Sanders (Year 11)

Zara Chand (Year 11)

Alexandra Haddad (Year 11)

Sofia Watts (Year 11)

Junior Waterpolo Team 2022

Charlise Ibrahim (Year 7)

Mia Dawson (Year 7)

Becky Linssen (Year 7)

Anika Applegarth (Year 7)

Emma Zuppell (Year 7)

Tahlia Stoddart (Year 7)

Leila O’Donnell (Year 7)

Caterina Otter (Year 7)

Olivia Treadwell (Year 7)

Caitlin Morrow (Year 7)

Intermediate Waterpolo Team 2022

Lara Carvallo (Year 8)

Elka Byczkov (Year 8)

Evie Lange (Year 8)

Angela Lakic (Year 9)

Amy Linssen (Year 9)

Elsie Gray (Year 10)

Sienna Brown (Year 10)

Caragh Price (Year 10)

Ziani Viola (Year 10)

Maddison Sherry (Year 10)

Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. Please see the COMPASS notification for more information.

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

 

Sports News

Congratulations to Year 12 Dance student Jacinta De Palo for her outstanding achievements in the DanceLife Unite Nationals over the summer holidays. Jacinta was recognised in the following categories:

• 2nd Runner-up Overall National Protege Champion
• Title Winner – Showdance
• 1st Place – Broadway Jazz National Champion
• 1st Place – Contemporary National Champion
• 4th Place – Lyrical

Jacinta serves as a model of honing one’s gifts through hard work and dedication at the College. We wish her the very best in her ongoing study of dance, both within the MSCW community and beyond. 

Year 7 2024 Applications

2022 Campus Experience

Save the Date…

Prospective students and their parents are invited to get a glimpse into our wonderful MSCW community at our 2022 Campus Experience on 1 March.

Running in a COVID-safe manner, the Campus Experience will be held from 4.00 pm – 8.00 pm and include performances, displays and a personalised tour.

In 2022, attendance to the Campus Experience will be by appointment only. The tours will run at set times in small groups. Bookings are essential, so please keep an eye on our website and Facebook for updates on booking details and tour times, which will be released soon.

 

 

We ask that all visitors to the Campus Experience wear masks.

Clothing Pool News

The Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich Clothing Pool is seeking your unwanted school uniforms.

Now is a great time to clean out the wardrobe and unburden yourself of school uniforms that you no longer need.

It is also a great way to support your College community. All proceeds from the sale of Clothing Pool donations go back into projects across the College, which benefit the whole College community.

Donations can be handed into the General Administration Office any time during school hours.

Should you wish to place an order with the Clothing Pool, please visit: www.flexischools.com.au

Thank you for your support.

Canteen News

Welcome Back to 2022!

The Canteen is now fully operating for all – Breakfast, Recess and Lunch.
                                                            
A reminder that Flexischools online ordering is available for Lunch pick up in the Canteen. Please have your student ID ready for pick up.

The new 2022 updated menu is now available online and in the Canteen. Please note that some items have increased due to our supplier’s increase.

Looking forward to a great 2022!

 

Reunion News

Members of the Class of 1979 and HSC Class of 1981 cohort are warmly invited to celebrate 40 years since their Year 12 Graduation.

Event details:

• Saturday, 26 February 2022
• 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
• Deckhouse, Clarke Road, Woolwich
• Cost: $135 for canapés and drinks

Contact Miriam Berlage (Wallace) for more details miriam.berlage@gmail.com