From the Principal

Matilda’s Success ‘Lifts’ Australia

Who couldn’t see, who couldn’t feel the tsunami of excitement and energy inspired by our ‘Mighty Matildas’ over the last few weeks? Their stunning efforts in the quarter final, semi-final and Bronze medal playoff gave Australians a treasured opportunity to witness high performance, wonderful sportsmanship, and the electric tension of a sudden-death penalty shootout marathon that we will never witness again. 

As a former athletic coach said: “The only thing better than reading about history is making history” The Matildas did this…and all of us were there cheering! The Matildas shared their winning wave with us as a proud nation.

And as we rode the wave with them we finished by knowing each of their names (Sam, Hayley, Mackenzie, Ellie, Mary, Katrina, Caitlin, Cortnee, Stephanie, Alanna, Emily, Kyra & Lydia), their shirt numbers and family origins…just delightful! They became like ‘sisters’ to us. 

Ok, their FIFA Cup dream is finished, however the real dream is just beginning for tens of thousands of young Aussie girls and boys. 

The Matildas have unified the nation like never before and changed the Australian sporting landscape forever. Our young MSCW sportswomen always enjoy their sport, exercise and team events. They have been inspired even further thanks to the ‘Mighty Matildas’.

There is no reason why MSCW couldn’t produce a Matilda or two in the future. 

MSCW Giving Back

Last week at the Principal’s Assembly, the Humpty Dumpty Foundation acknowledged and presented to the College the Humpty Cup. This Cup recognises the Sydney school who raised the highest amount of money to support the Humpty Foundation to “help sick kids in hospital”.

Typical of our girls community giving spirit, MSCW raised $3779.00 this year. The money has been used to purchase an AIRVO 2 Humidifier for John Hunter Hospital.

Thank you to all who ran on the day and to those who sponsored them. These types of contributions are a very active way that we can be of service and give back to the wider community.

Father’s Day 3 September 2023 

Throughout history, there seems to have always been a special and irreplaceable bond between Fathers and Daughters. This special bond announces itself in so many ways throughout a daughter’s life. It’s always full of joy, pride and happiness. 

The role of father to every child is a privilege. However, it seems never before has the FATHER role been more important. DADS can play a vital role in guiding their children. I cannot over emphasise the great value Fathers add to children growing up. Teenage girls benefit markedly by having a loving caring father/father figure in their lives. Research tells us that their learning, perspective, good judgement, balance and interpersonal skills are heightened when a good Dad is on the scene, giving active encouragement, setting firm boundaries or having playful fun in his vital role. 

I am always touched when staring into Rembrandt’s masterful 1669 painting “Return of the Prodigal Son”, now hanging in the Hermitage Gallery in St Petersburg. The unconditional love of a father for a daughter or son is perhaps the most reassuring feeling a child can experience. 

It is equally supported by Harper Lee’s quote in her 2015 book “Go set a Watchman” regarding fathers: 

Our daughters also need to be able to look to their fathers for other reasons:

• being a corner-post of family values and virtues
• treasuring and nurturing good relationships
• demonstrating respect and inclusion in every conversation or discussion
• modelling how to talk to girls and women without being sexist
• setting high expectations in manners, behaviour and getting involved displaying fairness, support, love and a reassuring presence

So as a college community, modelled on the Holy Family, let’s celebrate Father’s Day, next Sunday 3 September, as best as we can. Making sure that Dad, Grandfather or father figure know their importance and feel appreciated for their love, support and gentle care.

Gifted and Talented Report

What’s happening in Newman?

Students are well and truly settled into their new look classes and have started submitting their assessment tasks. I have been able to visit various classes this term and chat to students about their new class, their learning and their wellbeing.

In Year 7 Science they have been introduced to working in the lab and looking at measurement- how to measure using different instruments, how to measure accurately- all important skills in collecting data in science. Year 8 Science is looking at ecosystems and adaptations following their zoo excursion, and using AI to generate aliens for their assessment task.Yr 9 are tackling the rigours of Maths, with 30 students undertaking the Accelerated Maths course. This means students are completing Year 9 and 10 Maths this year and will start the Yr 11 Prelim course next year in Year 10, then completing the HSC Maths exam a year early- what an achievement! Year 10 English students are grappling with the text “To Kill a Mockingbird” and learning how to annotate and look for meaning between the lines, as well as understanding context.

Students are tracked beyond Year 10 once they have left the Newman program. I track all data and the wellbeing of former Newman students across Stage 6 to ensure they are working to their potential. Over the past 2 weeks I have met with former Year 10 Newman students who are now in Year 11 to discuss their transition to Stage 6 and the demands of being a senior student. Girls created a PMI outlining the positives such as new and interesting subjects, the building of relationships with teachers, new opportunities for socialisation as well as the minus- increased workload. Some interesting points made were mixing with students they had never mixed with in junior years. The feedback will be given to Year 11 students.

Attached are various photos of our Newman girls in action.

Mrs Colreavy’s Conundrum

Don’t forget Mrs Colreavy’s conundrum!

Question: What is the common link between the following:

Email: rachael.colreavy@syd.catholic.edu.au with your answer. Correct answers will win a prize.

From the Assistant Principal

Attendance

Attendance in class is one of the most critical aspects of learning. Deep learning is relational and relies on the interaction between the learner and the teacher, and the learner and other learners. 

Not being in class has a significant impact on how the learner is able to process new knowledge and skill acquired, and then to process in such a way as to be able to draw significant meaning and understanding. Being in class is not just a legal requirement but an essential element in the learning process. 

Further to this, punctual attendance in Tutor Group each day is expected and valued at our College. This time is important for students and Tutors to connect with each other. Parents and carers are asked to be active in the monitoring of their daughter’s attendance and punctuality at school and classes. If there are difficulties for your daughter in attending school regularly, please don’t hesitate to contact your daughter’s Tutor or House Coordinator.

Did you know that school attendance is essential for not only their learning but also their wellbeing!

Parents/Carers Responsibilities: 

Parents/carers of students enrolled at an SCS school are required to:

• Ensure their child attends school each day unless exempt or absent for an approved reason.
• Explain the absence of a student as soon as possible and within 7 school days from the first day of absence, otherwise the school will record the absence as an unexplained absence.
• Provide a medical certificate where a student’s frequent, recurring or long term absence is explained as being due to illness.
• Apply in advance for planned student leave using the SCS electronic attendance system.
• Work in partnership with the school and SCS to address any issues impacting on a student’s attendance.

What might happen if my child continues to have unexplained or unjustified absences?

Sydney Catholic schools are required to take further action where children of compulsory school age have recurring absences that remain unexplained after 7 days. This also applies to absences that the principal deems unjustified.  Actions that may be taken by the College include:

Sydney Catholic Schools attendance policy can be found here

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 ……

The Passion of St John The Baptist

This week, on 29 August, we celebrate the Passion of St John the Baptist. 

Saint Bede the Venerable has written:

There is no doubt that blessed John suffered imprisonment and chains as a witness to our Redeemer, whose forerunner he was, and gave his life for him. His persecutor had demanded not that he should deny Christ, but only that he should keep silent about the truth. Nevertheless, John died for Christ. Does Christ not say: “I am the truth”? Therefore, because John shed his blood for the truth, he surely died for Christ.

Through his birth, preaching and baptising, he bore witness to the coming birth, preaching and baptism of Christ, and by his own suffering he showed that Christ also would suffer. Such was the quality and strength of the man who accepted the end of this present life by shedding his blood after the long imprisonment. He preached the freedom of heavenly peace, yet was thrown into irons. He was locked away in the darkness of prison, though he came bearing witness to the Light of life and deserved to be called a bright and shining lamp by that Light itself, which is Christ.

–   https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/calendar/day.cfm?date=2014-08-29

In our Community….

We would like to congratulate Rebekah Vrab of Year 7 for participating in the “Kids Giving Back” program. Rebekah was involved in producing over 8500 hot meals, salads, fruit kebabs, breakfast boxes, snack packs and care packs with empathetic, positive messages, which were distributed to 15 charities around Sydney.

Her exceptional leadership qualities, compassion, and strong sense of civic responsibility are truly inspiring and a testament to the values that are instilled in her. I wanted to extend my heartfelt gratitude for her contributions.

https://kidsgivingback.org/

How Can You Be Involved? 

Here are two ways that you can be involved: 

• Wild Walk Fundraiser – Sunday 10 September 
• September/October 2023 School Holiday Community Programs

A Message from Kids Giving Back  

We would love to see more of your students involved in ‘giving back,’ If you could kindly let your school community know about the below opportunities.

Wild Walk Fundraiser – Sun 10 September

Register for our annual fundraiser “Wild Walk” https://wildwalk.com.au/ as a team or a school sponsor for your students to participate in an adventurous walk through the Royal National Park and support an incredible initiative supporting homeless and vulnerable communities.

We’d love you to encourage your students to participate and fundraise or even donate for this event! With walks varying from 5kms to 26kms we would like to acknowledge their hours, (if needed for Duke of Ed, Service Learning or IB), through their efforts in either fundraising or donating!   

September/October 2023 School Holiday Community Programs

Bookings open within the next week! Keep an eye out on our website as these programs sell out fast! School holiday programs | Kids Giving Back

Your school can support us, support those in need by taking up the below opportunities!

School Donation Drives 

Your school could make an incredible contribution to our charity partners simply by donating much needed groceries and toiletries.  Let us guide you with simple instructions on how to collect these specific items needed per year group, and our school holiday volunteers will create these beautiful packs ready for donation.     

Mufti Day Fundraiser for Kids Giving Back 

Help us to support our Charity Partners! 
Running a Gold coin day for Kids Giving Back will help us to continue to supply breakfast boxes and snack packs to students at low socio-economic schools and vulnerable communities.

Youth Changemaker Program – aged 14+ years

We provide volunteering opportunities for students wishing to complete their service component for Duke of Ed, IB and general school service hours with Kids Giving Back. To date, 275 students have become Youth Changemakers with Kids Giving Back.

We look forward to your continued support in encouraging your students to make a positive impact in the communities.

The Cardoner Network

The Cardoner Network is a not-for-profit, Young Adult-focused hub for volunteering, founded in 2010. We seek to engage Young Adults in a conscientious community with shared values, where genuine friendships are made. The Pillars of the Project provide opportunities to come together to grow, learn to question, and contribute in different ways. We seek to embed in Young Adults an understanding and respect for all and provide opportunities of service both locally and abroad.

If you are interested in being involved, please register in the link below:

https://www.thecardonernetwork.org/

St Joan of Arc Parish Invites 2023 HSC Students

Over the years we are aware that students from St Joan of Arc Parish and School could have been enrolled as High School students at Marist Sisters College. Some of these would now be about to sit for the 2023 HSC.

At St Joan of Arc Parish we intend to make our Sunday evening Mass (6.00 pm) on 24 September 2023 a time of prayer for those young people and their friends who would also be welcome to attend.

2023 HSC Students are invited to attend Mass at St Joan of Arc on that evening and afterwards to share in pizzas and some good company in the Church grounds and maybe reconnect with past school friends.

For the students planning to come to the Mass, would you kindly let us know, so that we can arrange the catering for the gathering afterwards.

Many thanks.

Fr Phillip Zadro and St Joan of Arc Community

97 Dalhousie St
Haberfield, NSW 2045
Phone: 9798 6657
Email: admin@stjoanofarc.org.au

In our Curriculum

Every Year 10 Religious Education class is currently studying the Sacraments at the Service of Communion frameworked around Micah 6:8 which says; “ He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” In this topic, students have been learning to appreciate the baptismal call to love and serve God and one another, understand the nature and importance of the Sacraments of Holy Orders and Matrimony in the lives of the faithful and the Church and investigates the range of ways through which baptised persons can live out their vocation. To achieve this, students have been completing various activities such as journaling their memory of a significant ritual they have participated in in their lives, Scripture deconstruction on Ephesians 4:1-6 Unity in the Body of Christ and listening to the report of Pope Francis’ homily from WYD in Rio to pass on Jesus’ message of love: Review Pope Francis’ Homily WYD, Rio – “Go, do not be afraid, and serve.”

Thank you to Year 10 for your efforts! Thank you to our teaching team for their continued commitment and dedication to Year 10:

Ms Samantha Ison

Ms Angela Bowland

Mr John Muskovitis

Ms Irena Jajcevic

Ms Veronica Barbagallo

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

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

From the Leader of Wellbeing

The Australian Student Wellbeing Framework informs the Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich Learning and Wellbeing Framework.

Australian Student Wellbeing Framework (link)	Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich Learning and Wellbeing Framework (link)

HOW?

In the faith-filled, inclusive community at Marist Sisters’ College Woolwich a dynamic learning culture exists. It is this culture that provides support for students to reach for, and accomplish the skills and knowledge that they require to achieve their potential in our world today.

This is achieved only through connection and establishing positive partnerships with all persons invested in the future of the young women in our care whom we educate and form.

The evidence is clear that when an individual feels safe and their wellbeing is nurtured through connection that develops a sense of belonging then the opportunity for learning is at its optimum and they flourish.

This is not a result of the students, the staff or their parent/carers/families, rather it is the result of the connectedness and collaboration of all three, with specialist external supports if required to achieve the best outcome for the student.

APPLIED TO ATTENDANCE

1. A student is enrolled and attending school as expected on enrolment by both the parents, school and the law.
2. A few weeks pass and the Tutor Teacher notices that her attendance is emerging as a pattern. For example – one day a week absent; they are late on Tuesday and Thursday; not attending school celebrations; leave early every Wednesday; frequently attending sick bay; often unwell yet no medical documentation.
3. The Tutor teacher will contact the parent/carer and touch base to enquire and listen. They may offer further support and/or direction if required and let them know that they will continue to monitor their daughter’s attendance/engagement in learning at school and be in touch as required. Parents and Carers are encouraged to reach out to the Tutor teacher in future. The expected level of attendance is 95% or above. 
4. If the student’s attendance/engagement does not improve (stays the same or deteriorates), the Tutor teacher will call and make arrangements for a meeting of all 3 parties – school, student and parent/carer. An email will be sent seeking confirmation of this meeting that the House Coordinator will also be present.
5. A decision will be made in relation to the need for any additional information and/or support. For example a review of an already existing Individual Education Plan or the input and support of the Learning Enrichment Team, support in developing skills such as organisation and socialising, referral to the College Counsellor, or the immediate implementation of an Attendance Improvement Plan (AIP).
6. Attendance and learning engagement will be monitored and if there is improvement in attendance/engagement after a week or two an AIP will be put in place.
7. The initial plan will be reviewed 3 times with each review requiring a meeting and an agreement between all 3 parties of their responsibilities to improve the current level of attendance. Throughout this time period the school will connect with any external supports that have been implemented by the parent/carers to ensure that we are consistent and all plans will also be shared with these agencies with your permission.
8. If the attendance and/or engagement of the student deteriorates, shows minimal or no signs of improvement before or after 3 AIP’s MSCW will seek the support of the SCS Student Wellbeing Team.

Ms Angela Bowland, Leader of Wellbeing

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

From the Leader of Learning

Preparation for Year 11 Examinations and Years 9 and 10 Exam Block

In a few weeks, Year 11 will commence their Preliminary Examination Block, and Years 9 and 10 will have a small exam block in Weeks 4 and 5 of Term 4. Year 11 have been preparing for their examinations each week on Thursday afternoons. It is now time for Year 9 and 10 students to look forward and begin preparing.

Ideally, being organised should have been an ongoing process throughout the year so that when exam time arrives, you are ready to start studying immediately. But it is not too late!

To get organised for the exams:

GATHER ALL MATERIALS ON THE SUBJECT: For each subject, gather all the material you need to study.

CHECK NOTHING MISSING: Check that you do not have anything missing.

SORT NOTES: Sort through your notes from each subject’s topic into ‘things to learn,’ i.e. content and ‘things to practise,’ i.e. revision sheets, past tests, and question sheets that you could do as revision.

START STUDY NOTES: Check if you have already done any study notes for your subjects.

BRAINSTORM HOW YOU WILL STUDY: Brainstorm everything you can do to study for the exam for each subject. Questions to consider include:
• Are there chapter reviews you should re-do?
• Are there past tests or essays you could re-do and resubmit?
• Can you get a list of sample essay topics for which you can draft essay plans?
• Do your textbooks have sample examination papers?
• Are there particular topics you need to focus on?
• What is the most worthwhile revision you could do for this subject?

DECIDE HOW TO ALLOCATE TIME:
Decide if you are going to allocate equal time to each subject.
• Do some subjects need more preparation time than others?
• Do you need to spend more time on your weaker subjects?
• Are all exams for all subjects worth the same amount towards your overall marks?

As the adage says, preparation prevents poor performance!

More information about exam preparation and study techniques can be found via the ELES Study Skills Handbook, accessed via the Favourites (star) icon on COMPASS.

New Staff Introduction

Silvia Chen I have just graduated from the Australian Catholic University where I completed my Master of Teaching degree, majoring in secondary biology teaching and minoring in Chemistry. In my free time, I enjoy bushwalking with my dog and I am thrilled to join the MSCW Community and look forward to meeting all of you!

Gifted and Talented Report

Da Vinci Decathlon

Congratulations to our big minds who represented the College at the Da Vinci Decathlon at Knox College.

Students were greatly challenged by some mind bending challenges such as coding, Maths, English, poetry, cartograph and engineering.

Our team consisted of Ella Grech, Annika Hollings, Sophie Murphy, Lydia Lok, Katya Nesterova, Maya Ostapenko, Ava Johnson and Lola Christopoulos.

We didn’t place, but the girls certainly were extended and enriched by the day. 

Thank you Ms Healey for taking the students!

Thriving Minds

We also had students attend Ascham College for the annual Thriving Minds Conference. Students were presented with a variety of ethical dilemmas and philosophical problems concerning the question “What ought I to do?” as well as an update on nanotechnology and what the future holds for this emerging technology- the benefits but also the ethical implications.

It certainly was very challenging and students had to show great focus during each lecture presented by Prof Julie Arliss from Oxford University.

All representatives across both events were exceptional representatives of MSCW.

Mrs Colreavy’s Conundrum

This is a code breaking question from the Da Vinci Decathlon 2018 paper.

Can you work out this quote from a famous person in history?

Email: rachael.colreavy@syd.catholic.edu.au with your answer. Correct answers will win a prize.

News from the College Counsellors

Yoga Starting in Term 3

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

Year 9 Camp

In week 5, Year 9 Students travelled to Camp Somerset, along the Colo River and took part in a three day, two night camp. The experience was filled with both challenging and fun activities such as kayaking, canoeing, bushwalking, abseiling, river run, crate stack, obstacle course, low ropes, rock climbing and river run. Each activity encouraged students to step outside of their comfort zone, and that our Year 9 group did with enthusiasm and bravery. 

Students also navigated their way along the Colo River from activity to activity and cooked and prepared all meals. Highlights were the “My Campsite Rules” challenge where students selected a cuisine and key ingredients to cook dinner and “Farm to Fork” where students prepared their own rotisserie style chicken, roasted vegetables and fresh baked bread for dinner. 

The Year 9 Courage Cup was up for grabs. House points were awarded to students when they demonstrated Courage and aspects of our Marist Compass. The challenge to take home the cup was welcomed by all of Year 9 with joy and eagerness. Year 9 Courage Cup winners will be announced to the group during Community Time in Week 8. 

We are proud of our Marist students who challenged themselves, learnt new skills and built new meaningful relationships with others during this experience. 

Year 9 Camp Reflection

In week 5, students attended the Year 9 camp where we had the opportunity to participate in a range of challenging, yet extremely fun activities. Our group completed the low ropes course, obstacles, rock climbing, canoeing and two hikes with beautiful views. 

It was our first time sleeping in a tent, it was surprisingly cosy and also amusing to see everyone trying to figure out how to set up our tents each evening.  

We both agree that canoeing was definitely a highlight as it allowed the group to bond a lot, while trying to steadily navigate our way down the Colo River. Another highlight was also having the opportunity to watch the Matilda’s game as a grade. There was so much energy as we supported our Country through the World Cup. 

Our outstanding “take-homes” from camp were learning how to better persevere through challenges, as well as growing closer to the other students in our group, especially bonding as we debriefed by the campfire.

Jessica Turri and Demitra Hadjistavrou, Year 9 Students

Reflection on World Youth Day Lisbon

Arriving home I was asked by almost everyone, “what was your highlight?”, a hard question to ask when there were so many moments during my World Youth Day (WYD) experience that are truly unforgettable, and I can guarantee anyone else who joined me would agree. Nine days in the beautiful cities of Italy, a chaotic week in Lisbon, and a post-WYD retreat in Fatima on the last days yielded not only insight into a world beyond Australia, but the privilege to meet those who share our faith from all over the world. 

At our Fatima retreat the pilgrims from New South Wales joined and shared their favourite moments. St Peter’s Basilica was one, where we celebrated mass with Bishop Umbers, alongside all our incredible priests. It was a true blessing to be able to observe the art and architecture, so much that has been driven by faith. We were also lucky enough to have mass everyday in the unique basilicas through the Italian cities such as Assisi and Siena. But what was even more special was hearing the homilies from the priests, which I believe touched each of us in different ways. 

The blue sky of angels and saints in the Basilica of Santa Rita left many of us speechless. In the tiny town of Cascia, it was a wonder to see the vibrant colours of the Church’s walls spill out into the streets, the sweet flowers and joyful atmosphere blooming as we ate paninis and gelato. Of course, the town of Saint Francis, Assisi was unforgettable, with its graceful triple layered basilica. There was a peaceful moment for prayer while being in front of his tomb. 

The faith community in Lisbon was magical. There was nothing more spectacular than seeing the immense amount of flags at the Opening Mass, the Stations of the Cross re-enactment, and listening intently to our radios as we followed the Pope’s address. Or the Confession booths at the City of Joy, or songs and dance as people performed. Although I believe there was absolutely nothing more exceptional than the deafening silence at the Vigil, where all 1.5 million people kneeled in respect to the Eucharist. What an experience it was to witness the absolutely stunning sunrise the next morning, and to share it with others in faith.

Life-changing is one way to talk about the true magic of World Youth Day. Not only did I get to share the experience with people who I can call family, but it was an extraordinary chance to deepen my faith and to encounter God in places I still see as surreal. There is a never ending gratitude I have for all the staff and organisers who made it possible, and for the opportunity to share a few of the many special moments. Very little can describe the true connection to people that I made on this pilgrimage, and the incredible power of faith.

Kaia Wilkowska, Year 11 student

Visual Arts News

STEM CORNER: Highlighting Successful Women in STEM

Our new Maths Club initiative to connect students with women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-based careers launched in our last newsletter. We will continue to share these explorations and learnings in our ‘STEM Corner’.

This edition features an interview from Angelina Severino and Savannah Lin (pictured above) of Year 8 with Professor Lisa Alexander (pictured below). Professor Alexander has experience as a climate researcher for the Climate Change Research Centre, ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes and the University of New South Wales. She has kindly agreed to speak with us about her career journey and offer advice to MSCW students. 

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: How would you best describe what your work involves? Do you have a lot of theoretical research work or do you have to do practical testing too? 

PROF. ALEXANDER: My work mostly focuses on climate extremes (things like heat waves, heavy rainfall). I try and understand how these have changed in the past (using observations), how well our climate models can simulate past changes (by comparing model output with observations) and estimating what might happen in the future under climate change (using models with different scenarios of future climate). So this involves theoretical work (what I think should happen based on physical or dynamical considerations) but also practical testing like writing computer code and developing statistics to understand the changes. My work was the first to show that past changes in Australian climate extremes could not be explained by natural climate variations (i.e. they exhibited a human fingerprint). Furthermore I showed that Australia would likely undergo significant changes in temperature and rainfall extremes by the end of the century and that the amount of greenhouse gases emitted would be crucial in determining how “extreme” these changes would be. Obviously those changes depend on our choices with respect to current and future greenhouse gas emissions.

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: What are the main skills and knowledge this career requires?

PROF. ALEXANDER: You need good quantitative skills. Most people will have done high-level mathematics, physics or computer/data science at undergraduate or postgraduate level.

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: Did you enjoy school and what STEM courses did you enjoy most at school?

PROF. ALEXANDER: I’ll be honest and say not really! Not that I thought school was terrible, I just didn’t particularly enjoy it. I did enjoy Maths though!

 ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: What things most influenced you to enter into climate research? 

PROF. ALEXANDER: I did an undergraduate degree in Applied Mathematics and a Masters in Computational Science. As part of my Masters I did a module on climate modelling. At the same time a job was advertised to ‘work with top models’ at the Met Office (the UK equivalent of the Bureau of Meteorology). I applied and got a job. Later I moved to the Bureau and then to Monash University where I did a PhD on looking at climate extremes over Australia. After that I got a job as an academic staff member at the Climate Change Research Centre at UNSW. My job allows me to combine my love of Maths, data analysis and computing with working on an environmentally-relevant and globally important topic that has huge real-world implications.

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: What were or have been the barriers to entering your career and having success in this field? How do you think your gender helped or hindered this?

PROF. ALEXANDER: Good question. It’s really hard to know. In some ways being in a minority has helped me to push myself (when I worked for the Met Office there was a 80%/20% M/F ratio – it’s a lot better now). There are definitely lots of studies though that suggest that women do experience more barriers than men in STEM careers, having kids for one. It’s really important I think to have female mentors and I try to be a good role model for my students. Personally I’ve exceeded all the expectations I set for myself career-wise. As a kid if you’d told me I’d be a Professor I would have laughed (and then asked what a Professor was!). I never even planned to go to university (and I was the first one in my family who did) so I’m pretty happy where I ended up.

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: What technology, methods or tools do you use to progress your analysis and research?

PROF. ALEXANDER: I have to handle large datasets, climate models and observations which are many Petabytes (soon to be exabytes). This requires relatively advanced knowledge of coding, statistics, supercomputing and quantitative data analysis. It also can take a long time to process such large volumes of data. For example, a one hundred year simulation from a climate model might take several months to run on a supercomputer and then it could take several more months to analyse. Output is also in binary format so you have to use special software and tools to analyse this. In addition to the supercomputing facilities at UNSW, I make use of the Australian National Computational Infrastructure (NCI) which is a large supercomputing facility based in Canberra. With the right permissions you can remotely log into the supercomputer there (Gadi) and run your simulations and do data analysis there.

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: What is a challenge that you’ve had to face in your career journey, and how did you overcome it or how would you advise others to overcome it?

PROF. ALEXANDER: I’ve moved several times with my work (often in research your initial positions might not be permanent). Having a partner (and/or family) that you need to move with can complicate this. This is often referred to as the two-body problem. It might mean you or your partner/family making a move, possibly overseas, or taking a job you don’t want. In my case, I’ve always got the job I wanted but maybe my partner on occasion has had to make career choices they didn’t necessarily want. This will probably necessitate some difficult conversations with your partner if you decide on a career in research!

ANGELINA AND SAVANNAH: What advice would you give someone who would like to get into climate research?

PROF. ALEXANDER: Do well in Maths, be curious, have a love of data and computing and a desire to focus on a “defining issue of our time”.

Thank you, Professor Alexander, and well done, Angelina and Harriet, for an insightful interview!

Calling any MSCW Alumni or family members in STEM-related careers!

Our student leaders of Maths Club would love to speak with you about inspiring a new generation of women in STEM and building aspirations for a broad range of careers that students may not even know exist! We would love to speak with ex-students or family members of students in these fields and will be conducting interviews for the newsletter by email and phone with a number of prominent women in fields relating to science, technology and engineering and of course, mathematics. Please get in touch by email if you’re interested in being a part of our initiative: emma.pracey@syd.catholic.edu.au 

Miss Emma Pracey, Instructional Specialist

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

Debating and Public Speaking News

Year 8 Geography

In Week 5 and 6, Year 8 Geography students had the privilege of participating in Geography fieldwork at the Sydney Olympic Park wetlands, as part of their study of the “Water In The World” topic. The students engaged in a range of activities, including analysis of secondary information, showing how the wetlands area has changed over time. They also conducted field work such as water testing and bird watching, to draw conclusions about the health of the wetlands area. They also got an in-depth look at how mangroves function as an essential part of the wetlands environment. Students loved the practical aspects of the excursion, and said that it really enhanced their understanding of the real-world applications of Geography.

Upcoming Youth

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

The Yr 11 & 12 Mega Connect Evening and Years 7 & 8 Deanery Youth Afternoon are two upcoming youth ministry events. See the promotional posters below for more information.

Please email Ms Vu (jenny.vu@syd.catholic.edu.au) if students are interested in attending either event. 

MSCW Athletics Carnival 2023

The weather was perfect and provided outstanding conditions for track and field events for MSCW students.  Participation, once again, from all students in all houses was off the charts, and several records were broken. 

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

The House with the most participation points was Perroton House 1st with Chavoin House 2nd, Colin in 2nd and Chanel House in 3rd. Congratulations to the 2023 Age Champions

Overall House Champion 

Congratulations to Perroton House who are the 2023 Athletics Champions.

1st Perroton House

2nd Chavoin House

3rd Colin House

A very big thank you, must go to Mrs Melinda Alvarez, Mrs Antonina Arcidiacono, Ms Fiona Varlow, Mr Matthew Iskander and Mr Daniel El-Hage for all their help with the organisation in the lead up to the carnival. Thanks also to the PDHPE Staff, Year 9 PASS Class, Year 10 PASS Class, Tamara Jago, Georgia Vassallo (Sports Captains) and all the staff who helped make the carnival enjoyable for all.

Congratulations to all students on their enthusiasm and their house spirit 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

Conference 2 Athletics Championships

Congratulations to the MSCW Athletics Team for their outstanding triumph at the Conference 2 Athletics Championships on Tuesday 22 August held at the Sydney Olympic Park Competition Track. The unwavering commitment of MSCW Athletes shone brightly, exemplifying the Marist spirit against strong opposition from Rosebank, Domremy and St Vincent’s Colleges.

• Junior Division Champions
• Intermediate Champions
• Conference 2 Overall Champions

Awesome achievement!

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

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

Sports News

Cheerleading Summit Championships in Florida

Congratulations to Sarah Reynolds, an exceptional Year 9 student, on her remarkable qualification for the 2024 Cheerleading Summit Championships in Florida. Her impressive talents are poised to shine on the international stage as she competes against teams from around the world.

NSW CCC Secondary Schools Rugby League 16 years Championships

Congratulations to Ellie Barnett (Year 11 Student) who competed at the NSW CCC Secondary Schools Rugby League 16 years Championships at St Mary’s Rugby League Complex. Ellie played exceptionally well throughout the day and was selected into the NSW CCC Team and now will travel to Port Macquarie to compete in the Australian School Girls Carnival.
Awesome achievement!

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

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

Sports Results

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

Week 3

MVP

Week 4

MVP

Mr Daniel Watts, Sports Coordinator

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

Canteen News

Flexischools

Flexischools is the system for students to order lunch online and to purchase over the counter in the Canteen. If you are new to this system we would encourage you to set up a Flexischools account. (Link: flexischools.com.au). The Canteen is a very busy area at lunchtime, so ordering online is the best option to ensure your daughter’s order is ready at the start of lunch and avoids any delays in purchasing over the counter.

Calling on volunteers

Volunteers needed for St Charles Primary School Fete

Free Webinar The HSC and Me

Lane Cove Council is partnering with Headspace and councils from across the Northern Sydney Region to deliver a series of webinars for HSC students. The first webinar in the series will be on Thursday 31 August from 6:30pm – 7:30pm. It will include study tips, stress busting techniques, and a Q&A section. Could you please pass this information onto your students?

Whilst the focus is on the HSC, this webinar series would also be useful for other students who are looking for study supports and ideas.

To register, students can visit www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/Youth or scan the QR code on the attached flyer.

Enrolments Update

Enrolments for Year 7 – 2025

Enrolments for Year 7 – 2026, are NOW OPEN!