From the Principal

So, who is the Patron Saint of Mothers?

Born in the 4th century, St. Monica is recognized as the patron saint of mothers and wives. Her faith and dedication to motherhood played a pivotal role in the spiritual formation of one of the most brilliant philosophers and well-known saints of all time – Saint Augustine her son.

After her husband’s premature death, St. Monica dedicated her life to raising her children. As a single mother of three, she persevered in the face of many difficulties. Her greatest desire was for her children to follow Christ. Although later in life he was known as a fervent man of God, St. Augustine did not easily come to see God’s truth. As a child, he proved to be quite difficult, causing Monica much grief, and as a young adult he remained uninterested in Christianity. But St. Monica never stopped praying for his eternal soul, in spite of the circumstances. 

After many years of prayer, Saint Monica finally saw her son give his life to the service of God. St. Augustine declared that his mother’s resilience and dedication to prayer is what led him to become the man of God he was meant to be. He stated that St. Monica was not only his mother, but “the source of his Christianity.” 

Mary’s mother – St Anne and grandmother of Jesus. As you would guess, St Anne is important to me as I carry her name.St. Anne is often depicted as a seated woman with a book upon her lap and the child Mary leaning against her, eager to learn. As teachers and learners this image resonates well with us. St. Anne had a unique position in which God trusted her with the task of bringing up Our Lady in a holy and virtuous way. While teaching Mary to cook, take care of her home, and look after her family and neighbours, St. Anne modelled for the Virgin Mary a life of prayer, love, and humility. In doing so, St. Anne prepared Our Lady to receive Our Lord not only into her heart, but into her very body, becoming the Mother of God.

St. Anne is the patron saint of unmarried women, housewives, women in labour, grandmothers, childless people, equestrians, lacemakers, miners, the poor, and seamstresses. What a role description! However, the most well-known patronage of St. Anne is that of grandmothers. Certainly, as the mother of the Virgin Mary and the grandmother of Jesus Christ, St. Anne was a woman of great virtue and love.

And then there is the most significant women for us as Marists is Mary, our Holy Mother.

Mary of the Southern Cross

This image of Mary and infant Jesus is named Mary of the Southern Cross, particularly an Australian Image of Mary. It was commissioned in 2008 for World Youth Day. It reminds us all that humanity is blessed in the sense that Mary is Mother to all. While Mary is Patron of the Sydney Archdiocese, we delight as Marists that we are Maryists. The original name of the Marists was Maryists. Forming the order in Mary’s name 205 years ago means we follow her way. At MSCW we say: to think, judge, feel and act as Mary. It is through Mary that we see humility, someone who puts others first, who values relationships, who listens and who goes out of their way to help others. These are the special characteristics of our Mums.                                                

So last Sunday you may have celebrated your Mum by giving a card, flowers and gift or bringing her breakfast in bed or as a family enjoyed lunch or dinner together. For those whose Mum is not living you may have visited her gravesite or those that couldn’t be together you may have chatted on the phone. Whatever you did it was important that we all stopped and remembered the significant women who have made a difference in our lives and in some way offer them our great gratitude for the significant impact they have made.

I conclude this column with this quote from an unknown author that explains the special relationship of mother and child:

Thank you Mum’s for all you do!                

From the Assistant Principal

Late last year the College was notified that Eleanor Albuquerque (Year 12) had been selected to represent the College to participate in the 2021 National Schools Constitutional Convention. To be selected to be a part of this nation wide event Eleanor was required to provide a written response to the question  How has the Australian Constitution remained relevant during 2020?  

A panel of judges made up of representatives from NSW Department of Parliamentary Services selected only 30 students from across the state to participate in the National Conference.

The 26th National Constitutional Convention was held early this year and Eleanor has shared her experiences below. Congratulations Eleanor!

On the 24th and 25th of March I participated in the National Schools Constitutional Convention 2021, at NSW Parliament House. Myself and 116 other students across Australia engaged in the 2-day program within 11 state and territory hubs. Consisting of working groups and keynote speakers, the convention addressed the topic; “Should the Constitution have a new preamble that would recognise our history, our aspirations and the many peoples and groups that make up our nation?”. 

On the first day of the convention we heard from Dr Andrew Banfield who addressed what a preamble is, providing valuable context for us. Building on this understanding, Dr Benjamin Jones spoke on approaches to writing a preamble, presenting a range of recommendations and advice. Finally, we heard from Eddie Synot and Kirk Zwangobani who offered suggestions from Indigenous and multicultural perspectives on how a new preamble could recognise our history and the multicultural nature of modern Australia. Within the 11 state and territory hubs, each group was asked to propose a new preamble. On the second day, we individually voted for our preferred preamble and proceeded to work all together to modify the preamble that received the most votes. After engaging in a referendum, it was agreed that it was necessary to alter the Constitution to insert the proposed preamble established. 

I am grateful to have engaged in this valuable experience and thoroughly appreciate the skills and knowledge that I developed during it. 

The proposed preamble that we wrote is as follows: 

“As the people of Australia we are united across States and Territories to serve the common good.

Interconnected through culture and heritage, we recognise the First Nations peoples, whose sovereignty was never ceded, and on whose land we reside and swear to protect. Through these aspects we strengthen our Australian identity. We shall live our lives under the rule of law, in respect to our democratic values set out by the Commonwealth.

We acknowledge the ever-changing nature of Australian identity, recognising that time will bring new peoples, cultures and ideals.

We pay our respects to those who have served and continue to serve our nation in times of peace and conflict.

We pledge to be people who strive for equality, regardless of gender, race, faith, or culture while swearing to protect the honourable Constitution of Australia.”

Eleanor Albuquerque, Year 12

School Buses

It is imperative that students at the College are using their OPAL Cards when using buses to travel to and from school. Current statistics of bus usage by the students are not representative of the numbers of students relying on buses for transport to and from schools and there is a significant shortfall in the statistics.

The statistics that are gathered does have a significant impact on the number of buses services that are provided to the College and we need to be sure that students are using the OPAL Cards if we are to maintain the number of bus services allocation to the College at this stage; and to increase the number.

I ask all parents and carers to talk with their daughters about this important issue. Should you have any concerns related to the travel of your daughters on the buses, I welcome the feedback. Added to this, I ask that you, too, contact the Bus Depot as well to raise your concerns with them.

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

From the Religious Education Coordinator

As we continue to journey through the season of Easter and the month of May, Pope Francis has invited all the faithful to pray the rosary every day of May to ask for the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Students and staff have been invited to gather each day at 2.00pm in the College Chapel to pray a decade of the Rosary. This will continue throughout the month of May.

Tuesday Christian Meditation

The College has re-commenced Tuesday Christian Meditation facilitated by Mrs Jennifer Aduckiewicz from Marist Laity. Students in Years 7 to 10 will attend in their classes on Tuesday mornings Periods 1 and 2. We thank Mrs Jennifer Adukiewicz for her continued commitment to this ministry in our College. 

Year 12 Studies of Religion visit to Emanuel Synagogue

Studies of Religion students were welcomed to Emanuel Synagogue by Reverend Sam Zwarenstein who provided invaluable content and insights regarding synagogue services and the Jewish religious tradition.

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

From the Leader of Wellbeing

Year 11 Student Leadership Process 2021

This week, Year 11 were involved in the commencement of the Student Leaders 2021/22 nomination process based on the inspiring and insightful orientation session facilitated by Dr Ireland, Ms Bloomfield and Ms Muller training during Community Time in Week 2. We have creatively adapted the existing Student Leadership process to an electronic platform, which highlights the roles and responsibilities of current student leaders, including video clips and tips as well as resources in preparation for the nomination form.  

We encourage all students with their gifts and talents to apply, to take ‘courage’ and be ‘empowered’ by their own leadership traits and most importantly, to believe in themselves. This is the time to rise up and take charge! We have advocated to the Yr 11 cohort that they are, in their own right, all leaders, role models and of influence,  amongst the broader school community. The question is how have they or can they (moving forward as a cohort), utilise their strengths in a positive way to make a difference. How do we bring Mary’s story to live life to the full by providing opportunities to ‘think, judge, feel and act’?  Please have a conversation with your Year 11 daughters and challenge their thinking in support of their application. This will allow them to reflect and experience a process of discernment which undoubtedly will create a greater sense of self-awareness in terms of their growth and ability to lead. 

Year 8 Enlighten Education (Dannielle Miller)

Given the restrictions of COVID in 2020, our current Year 8s were unable to partake in their annual Year 7 camp last year. As an opportunity to provide further connection, and addressing areas of targeted wellbeing needs for this year group, the College was fortunate enough to secure the Enlighten Education organisation. The day focused on the following areas:

• Connection: facilitating the development of positive, healthy relationships and peer bonds as well as developing skills in conflict resolution;

• Meaning and purpose: providing a sense of empowerment and recognising the role they play as active change agents;

• Agency:  the capacity to make their own choices; and

• Altruism: workshops on gratitude that encourages students to look at ways in which they can give back to others and be forces for good within their communities.  

Our Year 8 students not only demonstrated exemplary engagement but participated in discussions with maturity and an openness to learn. Below is one of the many emails that I had received that captured the essence of the day.

In other news, our Wellbeing Community Time continues to work with all year groups, aimed at extending their learning and support in various areas of wellbeing. 

The Sleep Connection engaged with our Year 7 year group which focused on sleep hygiene and the impact that technology has in establishing good sleep patterns. One tip from Lisa Maltman (The Sleep Connection) that surprised many students was the effect of the blue light that illuminates from the phone & laptop and the 1 hour ‘wind-down’ time that the brain requires to sleep. Please encourage NO electronic devices be in your daughter’s room after 9.30pm.

In addition, the Drug & Education presentation by Tom Reynolds, was also exceptionally informative with many girls asking responsible and fairly mature questions, not only during but also after the session. Whilst many of these topics may be covered in our PDHPE program, we need to be mindful that there are always new developments, new forms of research and evidence which we see as valuable learning. As a community we value and recognise the importance of sharing and continuing to educate and open safe conversations with our students. 

SAVE THE DATE: UPCOMING PARENT FORUMS

In conjunction with the evidence based Year 7 RAP program that the student engage with during their timetabled wellbeing lesson, we will also be providing an opportunity for Year 7 parents to attend a Parent Forum based on the crucial modules in:

“Raising Resilient Adolescents” Tuesday 1 June 2021 7 – 8.30pm

Communication through COMPASS will be shared with parents to register their attendance. This forum comes highly recommended to parents of Year 7 students as it will provide informative and practical tips in addition to the opportunity to ask questions in a safe and adult environment. 

“Supporting your child with their worries and social media use in order to maximise wellbeing throughout school”

Well known Sydney psychologist Dr Danielle Einstein will be presenting to our parent body the important topic of: technology and how best to support the wellbeing of your adolescent and their connection to social media. (Date yet to be confirmed).

From the College Counsellor

Teens and Technology

I hear time and time again from parents that talk about their daughters, who are addicted to their mobile phones. A child that once loved to hang out with the family, is now spending hours in their room alone and always within reach of their phone. Many parents feel that they are a victim to their teenager’s mood and often struggle to maintain a positive connection with their child that has made it their mission to shut their parents out.

Studies have shown that teenagers over the years are spending less time with their families. In 1996 children between the ages of 10-18 spent 35% of their waking day with their family, that figure has now dropped to only 14% (Gottman.com).

Social media has influenced the way that teenagers interact with each other and build connections. Teens are building their own identities through social media, and losing connection with family around then. In some ways, it is important for parents to keep their teenagers safe whilst they are evolving into adults who need independence and autonomy. The challenge for parents is how do we accomplish that. We need to rise to the challenge and take the time to educate ourselves about how our teens are navigating the digital world in order to foster their independence, empathy and responsibility.

Some helpful strategies for parents to implement when making decisions around teens accessing social media and technology is to set limits.

Try and implement a balance between school, study, sport, family time, socialising and technology. Moderation is key. It may be helpful to have a technology free hour in the household where the family is not using technology and are encouraged to interact and engage together.

Another strategy is to participate with your daughter on technology when possible. Be curious around what they are on and what interests they have so that you can create opportunities to discuss what you are seeing and hearing online.

For more information and guidance around navigating technology with teens the Gottham Institute https://www.gottman.com/

If you wish to discuss the above or have any concerns about your daughter, please feel free to contact the College Counsellor, Monica Rogenmoser via monica.rogenmoser@syd.catholic.edu.au or ph: 0435 659 694

Family Forum by Sydney Catholic Schools

Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) has announced its first Family Forum, Part of Something Bigger, an exciting online event on Tuesday, 25 May 2021 at 7.00pm. This forum will bring together parents and carers from across the 150 primary and secondary schools that make up the SCS system to hear from SCS Executive Director, Tony Farley. He will be talking about the programs and major initiatives underway to build collaborative networks of excellence across our schools that will deliver on our vision, and commitment, to build thriving Catholic communities through excellence in teaching and learning.

According to Tony Farley, “We know that families of our students, and the wider community, are eager to know more about the opportunities that are available to their children.  Our new Family Forums will be run each term and are designed so that everyone can learn more about how we are equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities they need to become active, global citizens,” he said.

We encourage everyone in our school community to register for the first Family Forum via this link: https://extraconnect.co/sydneycatholicschools/

If you are unable to join the online event, be sure to still register and you will receive a recording of the presentation post event.

While this event has been designed for current parents and carers, anyone who is considering a Sydney Catholic School as an education option for their children is more than welcome.

Year 9 Wellbeing Lesson Experiences

Sports News

MSCW Cross Country Carnival Overall Results

A very big congratulations to the three hundred students for their outstanding participation at the recent Cross Country Carnival. 

The 2021 House Champion and Participation Champion will be announced at the next Principal’s assembly.  

Congratulations to the 2021 AGE CHAMPIONS AND RUNNERS UP:

CGSSSA Soccer

Junior Team

On 4 May,we set off to play the CGSSSA Soccer tournament in the rain. The first game was against Bethlehem with a win 3- 0. Maddison Tannous (Yr 8) scored 2 goals and Claudia Janus (Yr 9)  scored the other goal. Elsie Gray (Yr 9) played an impressive game in centre back not allowing any Bethlehem players to get through. The team lost the third game against Loretto Kirribilli. The score was 2 – 1. Loretto were highly skilled up the front and displayed excellent teamwork. As a result the Junior team finished second in the group and progressed to the Semi-Final against St. Ursula’s. 

The semi- final  went into extra time and unfortunately Woolwich conceded a goal in a one v one situation. Cate Davis  (Yr 8) had a tremendous game. She scored an impressive goal by crossing the ball into the top left corner. Claudia Lacalandra (Yr 9) dominated in Midfield during the group stages of the tournament. Unfortunately she injured herself but swapped with Matilda Gilbert (Yr 9)  in goals during the semi-final. Matilda Gilbert then went  on to score two goals in her goalie gear, assisted by Sarah Caparnato (Yr 9) .Hannah Sacco (Yr 8) and Sienna Tionville (Yr 8) dominated in the backs, sitting tight to their players and not not letting anyone by them. 

A big thanks to Mr Muller and Georgie Andriankonis for their encouragement and enthusiasm on the sideline. 

Matilda Gilbert, Year 9 Student

Open Team

Tuesday 4 May started bright and early for the Senior Football team at Meadowbank park. After missing the competition last year, we were undeterred by the rain, and eager to defend our success of previous years. We had a rough start against Domremy, and the rate of injuries only grew as the day wore on. After losing our next two matches against Santa Sabina and St Ursula’s, we rallied in the rain to win our last two games by a comfortable margin. It seemed we only needed a bit of a warm up, as we went on to score 7 goals in our final two games. Everyone showed tremendous character to continue on in spite of the weather, injuries, and fatigue. We finished third overall in our group, narrowly missing out on one of the playoff spots. Thanks to all the girls who participated, as well as the teachers and students who organised the day, and helped it run smoothly. 

Kora Villa, Year 12 Student

MCCS Sport Results

Congratulations to the Five teams that have represented the College in the Thursday  MCCS competition in week 2. The games in week 3 were a wash out. 

Please see the results and MVP (Most Valuable Player) for each team.

Congratulations to the Five teams that have represented the College in the Thursday MCCS competition in week 4. 

Please see the results and MVP (Most Valuable Player) for each team.

Gifted and Talented Report

As assessment tasks start piling up, your gifted daughter may start to show signs of great anxiety- often linked to perfectionism, a trait not uncommon to gifted students.

An article from the National Association for Gifted Students published an interesting article on what’s healthy and what might be signs of unhealthy perfectionism.

“It’s not uncommon for high-ability children to also be perfectionists.  Whether they worry about getting it exactly right, earning all A’s in school, or feeling helpless in fixing society’s downfalls, approximately 20% of gifted children suffer from perfectionism to the degree it causes problems.”

All perfectionism is not bad. Setting personal standards and pursuing excellence is important and healthy in many life situations.  However, perfectionism can become unhealthy when it causes stress, pain, illness, procrastination, and underachievement.  While not inclusive, some causes of perfectionism include a desire to please others, early successes and no failures at a young age, and difficulty setting realistic goals.

The following is taken from: https://www.nagc.org/resources-publications/resources-parents/social-emotional-issues/perfectionism

Healthy Perfectionism

• Doing the best you can with the time and tools you have–and then moving on
• Setting high personal standards with a gentle acceptance of self
• Managing behaviors to not interfere with daily life.

Unhealthy Perfectionism

• Emphasizing and/or rewarding performance over other aspects of life
• Perceiving that one’s work is never good enough
• Feeling continually dissatisfied about one’s work–which can lead to depression, anxiety, and other physical symptoms
• Feeling guilty if not engaged in meaningful work at all times
• Having a compulsive drive to achieve, where personal value is based on what is produced or accomplished.

Tips for Parents & Teachers in Managing Perfectionism

• Watch for signs of unhealthy perfectionism and intervene if necessary
• Adults should model a healthy approach and be aware of their own predispositions toward compulsive excellence
• Refrain from setting high, non-negotiable standards
• Emphasize the effort and process, not the end-result 
• Do not withhold affection, support, or encouragement if goals are not met
• Teach your gifted child to manage perfectionistic behaviors and focus on positive self-talk.

If you think your daughter needs support in this area please do not hesitate to contact me.

Year 7.1 Newman class are showcasing their talents this week through their submission of an artwork in the Clancy Prize Exhibition. The theme this year is Celebrating 200 years of Catholic Education. The students have called their work ‘Marist Story’. Congratulations ladies on this beautiful work.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2, #8 & #11

MSCW Queen’s Gambit

Last Friday afternoon eight courageous members of the MSCW Chess Club had their first interschools chess match. With eight games being played and a total of sixteen students the tension and excitement in the air was palpable, much like the Queen’s Gambit!

Our Junior Team consisted of Olivia Aloisio, Megan Lam, Beth Devine and Sofia Vella. The girls versed Cammeraygal High School, who were a competitive and skilled bunch of young men to say the least! It was Sofia Vella’s first ever game and she gave 100%, never giving up, holding her head high and showing some impressive skill! Olivia Aloisio was on board one and after a half an hour she gloriously beat her opponent, a great start to the season. Beth Devine and Megan Lam had the boys sweating with frustration, though did not manage to pull off the win this week. 

Our Senior Team versed St Aloysius. Elaina Balassis, Sasha Devajana, Elizabeth Smart and Phoebe Siminsky all brought their expertise and enthusiasm.  After a drawn out forty minute game Sasha gracefully took a win home for our girls! Elaina and Phoebe put up an impressive fight, though they were not successful this week and Elizabeth won after a forfeited match from St Aloysius. We are all eager for a next game and will no doubt see more success as the season continues.

This article on College life meets The Archbishop’s Charter for Catholic Schools – Charter #1, #2, #6

Visual Arts Gallery Walk

In Visual Arts the girls have come in excited and ready to explore their creative side. I am new to the College this year and am excited to be working with girls in an open and collaborative creative space.

Each year group has been learning about different artists, and experimenting with different mediums and materials new to them through formative tasks which have been innovative, creative and fun. I like to showcase students’ work around the room for inspiration and further motivation. Below are a few recounts from each grade to explain their artistic journey.

I hope you enjoy this virtual gallery walk as you experience what our students have been working towards in Visual Arts. 

Year 7 

When we first started art, we began to learn about the 4 frames of art which are the structural, subjective, postmodern and cultural frames. But we mostly focused on the structural and subjective frames. The information was explained in a fun and interactive way which helped us better understand the concept. We then moved on to learning painting techniques that a famous artist named Georgia O’Keeffe had used in her paintings. We then were able to practice the painting techniques ourselves in a fun and enjoyable way. We have also begun to learn some drawing techniques using coloured pencils. We learnt so many new techniques that we didn’t know we could use with coloured pencils! Overall, Visual Arts is a very enjoyable experience for the whole class!

Sofia Valentini  – Year 7 Student

Year 8

This semester in Visual Arts, we studied the art and everyday life of Vincent Van Gogh and William Dobell. We also studied the four frames Cultural, Postmodern, Structural, Subjective and additionally, the conceptual frame.  Van Gogh was part of the post impressionist movement and he painted with broken brush strokes and cool colours, these techniques are evident in his famous paintings, in particular Starry Night and his own self portrait. During practical lessons, we practised using monochromatic painting techniques on paper, and painted faces using multiple tones of the same colour. 

Alessia Saija – Year 8 Student

Year 9 

To start off the year we ventured into perspective drawing where we learnt all different techniques to create interesting and creative landscapes. After, we explored all different mediums and ways to make art. Each of us created a micro to macro piece of our choosing to experiment with different textures. It was a great way for us to figure out what we enjoyed and how we like to create art as an individual. We continued using all our newfound skills to start our assessment landscape artworks. This assessment gave us a lot of freedom to create art that inspires us. This class is such a supportive environment for aspiring artists to grow in skills and confidence. I have loved immersing myself in all different styles of art this year and I am so excited to keep expanding my artistic horizons.

Jade Dunleavy – Year 9 Student

Year 11 

As a Year 11 student completing the Visual arts course in 2021, there have so far been many new and inspiring opportunities to explore our individual styles, thoughts and visions through many different mediums and expressive forms. 

In particular, analysing the human form has allowed us to expand our knowledge and viewing of the organic ways in which our body is structured, by drawing bones, hands, figures and facial features. As well as this, completing activities which overcome our personal boundaries in relation to what we are comfortable with creating, by experimenting with colour palettes and gaining confidence in simply putting pencil to paper and starting an artwork. 

Along with this, learning and building upon our knowledge of iconic artists throughout history and how they have revolutionised art into what we see today. Artists such as Ah Xian, Gordon Bennett and Jackson Pollock have been significant inspirations and influences upon not only our art, but also our ways of thinking and interpreting their practices into the four frames of art. 

It is with these practical and inspiring activities that we have developed important skills in creating art and have set foundations for our evolving knowledge of artists and the art world around us. 

Jane Linetsky – Year 11 Student

Legal Studies Excursion

Recently, ten students from Year 11 Legal Studies accompanied Mrs Anthony to participate in The Law Society of NSW’s Young Justice Program. The day started at the Supreme Court of NSW with an introduction from Magistrate Elizabeth Ellis, of Wyong Local Court. As one of eight children, she opened up about her childhood and the importance of education in her family, hence her excelled legal career.

As young women interested in further education in law, Magistrate Ellis’ transparency and vulnerability resonated with each of us and has inspired us to never give up on our dreams. After this, we attended a legal careers Q&A panel composed of three high profile lawyers. Each of them outlined their own personal nonlinear journey which led them to the legal profession. Their journeys varied from changes in courses of study to switched career paths and even those who stumbled into unexpected aspects of law which they thoroughly enjoyed. We then heard a legal literacy presentation from legal Clerk Jackie Charles, who explained the complexity of law. This included discussing the importance of law reform, providing specific examples of outdated or irrelevant laws, such as the law that exists in Western Australia stating it is an offence to possess 50kgs of potatoes.

To end the day we broke into two groups, representing the prosecution and the defence. We were presented with a mock criminal case, which had been heard in the local court, and worked closely with Solicitor Rebecca Thoms-Packer to establish a suitable sentence according to the variables of the crime. This allowed us to practically apply all the knowledge and skills we had learned during the day, as well as develop our teamwork, communication and critical thinking skills in a legal environment.

We are all extremely grateful for the opportunities given to us throughout our day at the Young Justice Program, especially being able to hear from many independent and successful women conquering their fields. We would like to thank Dr Ireland for supporting our participation on this insightful excursion.

Jacinta Fitzgerald, Year 11 Student

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

String Ensemble – Are You Interested?

A new String Ensemble has commenced at the College for students in Years 7 & 8.

We are seeking additional members.

Please contact Mrs Caroline Marsh at info@mscw.catholic.edu.au for further information.

Careers News

Year 10 Careers Education

The focus of our career lessons this term will be the Subject Selection process.  Students will engage in a range of activities designed to help them choose a pattern of study for Years 11 and 12, suitable to their interests and potential career pathway.  Topics covered will include:  

• Unravelling the jargon:  understanding the language used by UAC (University Admission Centre), TAFE and other tertiary education providers
• What subject do I need to study for …? Tips on how to choose the right subjects for study post-school
• Exploring course options
• Developing a Career Action Plan

Lunchtime information sessions will be held later in the term to explain the different courses available through our external providers such as Southern Cross College Burwood, TAFE, TAFE Digital and the Australian Training Company (traineeships).  Dates and times will be published once the Subject Selection process begins.

UAC Presentation for Year 10 Parents and Students 

On Tuesday 15 June a representative from the University Admissions Centre (UAC) will be available to explain the HSC process.  During this online session a Community Engagement Officer will provide you, and your daughter, with important information regarding HSC marks, the ATAR process, common HSC myths as well as schemes such as EAS (Educational Access Scheme).  The session will begin at 6.30pm and will run for approximately 45 minutes.  

MSCW Post-school Pathways website 

Each fortnight the latest career information will be made available in an extended career newsletter, whilst highlights will be posted in the school newsletter. A few key features of the site are: 

• Events Calendar:  see all the upcoming events (for a 2 week period) from the Careers Calendar.  Students can see the upcoming events at a glance.  The full calendar of events can be located under the “Important Information” menu tab on the site.
• Course Seeker portal:  Not sure what to study?  Search for courses right across Australia. Covers University, TAFE and many Private Training Providers. 
• Career Targets:  This leads students to the interactive versions of the old Career Bullseye Charts.  Students select which subject area they want to investigate,   the possible jobs and careers and are taken to that target chart. When they click on the job of their choice, they are taken to a page of information all about that job – including Duties and Tasks, Working Conditions, Personal Requirements and a listing of all courses they can do to get into that career.  Students are currently using this facility in class. 

Information videos are also available on the main page.  This week’s topic is “UAC’s guide to applying for uni as a Year 12 student”.  New videos will be posted each fortnight/month so remember to visit the site on a regular basis to view our entire collection.

UAC news

Applications for university in 2022 have now opened.  To start their application students will need their Year 12 student number (issued through their school) and their UAC PIN, emailed recently to all students by UAC.  Once students apply they select ‘Undergraduate application’, and then click on the ‘Start’ button. Early Bird applications ($70) close on 30 September.

Once they’ve created their application, they then log in using ‘Manage your application’. If students have any issues with logging in they can find helpful information on UAC’s website under the ‘Frequently asked questions’ section or contact UAC directly on (02) 9752 0200 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Institutions haven’t provided all 2022 course information to UAC, however, students can still complete their application. All courses will be available by August and students are able to access their account at any time to review and update preferences.

EAS (Educational Access Scheme) update

The JobKeeper disadvantage introduced last year as part of EAS has been retained by UAC for 2022 admissions. Students will be able to apply if a parent or carere received JobKeeper for at least three months, or has received JobSeeker for at least three months from March 2020 onwards.

Upcoming events (for extended version on MSCW Career website)

Study Medicine Deadlines: May marks the start of the 2022 medicine application cycle 

Find the latest information May marks the beginning of the 2022 medicine application cycle in Study Medicine https://www.studymedicine.com.au/deadline-info .  A detailed list of May university application deadlines, interviews, notable events, and medicine offers for all Australian medicine degrees and degrees leading to medicine (entry in 2022) can be found by subscribing to Study Medicine. Contact admin@studymedicine.com.au

Sydney University Year 12 Information Evening Tuesday 18 May, 4-7pm 

Find out about undergraduate course options, admission pathways, scholarships and more. Hear from current students about their university experiences. https://www.sydney.edu.au/study/events-for-prospective-students/undergraduate.html

Sydney Design School Open Day Saturday 29 May 2021, 10am

Sydney Design School, St Leonards ~ Join us for our biggest day of the year! Our Director will take you through our courses and give you a comprehensive introduction to our School community. Meet our passionate Educators and explore our inspiring student work. This event may be held on campus or online.

Find out more: https://sydneydesignschool.com.au/information-sessions/

Ms Leonie Clarke, Post-School Pathways Coordinator

HNOM Youth Event – Experiences of a Refugee

40 Year Reunion – Class of 1981

2021 Confirmation Program ~ St Therese, Denistone

Program of Preparation

Applications to enrol your child in Confirmation preparation will be available from Father Roberto after the Sunday Masses from 10 – 11 July or at the Parent Information Night on 14 July.  

1. Parent Information Night will be held on Wednesday 14 July at 7.30pm in St. Therese Church.  Please DO NOT BRING your children with you. 
2. Candidate & Parent attend Presentation Mass: Candidate with parent(s)  should attend Saturday 17 July at 6.00 pm Vigil Mass or Sunday 18 July at 8.00 am or 10.00 am Masses. 
3. Parent & Candidate Sessions of Instruction: Wednesdays 21 & 28 July, 4, 11 and 18 August in the St Therese Church at 7pm.  
4. Rehearsal for Confirmation will be held in the Church at 4.00 pm on  Saturday the 21st August for candidates & their parent. 
   

Celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation

Sunday 22 August 2021 at 11.30am & 2.30pm Mass at St Therese, Denistone. 

(Please note that we might have only ONE celebration depending on the number of candidates. Please keep this day flexible.) 

Please note: Please complete the application and lodge it at the presbytery office or leave it in the presbytery mailbox located at 8  Inkerman Rd, Denistone. If you are new to St Therese Parish, please attach a copy of their Baptism, Reconciliation & FHC Certificates. Ensure that all attachments to your application are included. 

Participation in the Confirmation Program of Preparation costs $40 and is payable when lodging the application with the Parish Office.

HSC Lock In at West Ryde Library

Ryde Library will be holding an HSC Lock In at West Ryde Library on Wednesday 19 May from 5.30pm – 8.30pm.

This will give your HSC students a place to study with their friends, access to HSC resources and our new Digital Media Hub as well as WiFi for FREE.

Booking are essential at: cityofryde.eventbrite.com.au or  www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/HSCLockIn

Canteen News

Specials for Term 2

Weekly specials available on Wednesday and Thursday
All lunch orders need to be in by 8:30am.