The Eagle 15 November 2024

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

This week we paused in honour of Remembrance Day, reflecting on the meaning behind ‘Lest We Forget.’ These words are not only a tribute but a call to each of us—a promise to remember those who showed courage beyond measure and to recognise that their sacrifices paved the way for the freedoms we can appreciate today. It was a humble morning and we are eternally grateful for those who have made and continue to make the ultimate sacrifice for our way of life.

Congratulations to the cast of A Christmas Carol
Well done to all students involved in our junior production of A Christmas Carol. Our partnership with OLMC students brought great energy and collaboration to the stage, making for a truly memorable performance. The students’ dedication and enthusiasm shone through each scene, bringing Dickens' timeless tale to life in an engaging and heartfelt way. A special thank you to our director, Ms Michelle Bellis, for her commitment and creative vision, which guided this production to success. We are incredibly proud of everyone’s hard work and the HEART they brought to every moment of the show.

2025 Bell Times and Head Start Preparation
As we move into Head Start in the coming weeks, our students will be adjusting to the new 2025 bell times and split lunches. This trial period is essential as we prepare for upcoming works on the flyover bridge between the Hermitage and Ardmara buildings and renewal of the quadrangle. I am confident that our students will adapt quickly, displaying resilience and flexibility.

Additionally, please note that our staff professional learning time next year will move to period 1 on Day 3. This means our Wednesday early finish will change to be a later start, allowing students involved in after-school activities such as training to begin promptly without having to wait until 3:30pm. This adjustment supports our students' balance between academic and co-curricular commitments. Further details will be provided in the coming weeks.

Year 9 - 11 Exams
This week, our Year 10 and 11 students began their exams, with Year 9 soon to follow as they prepare for the transition into Head Start. Exams provide students with a chance to challenge themselves, develop essential study skills and strive towards their highest potential. Preparation, focus, and a positive mindset are key to success in these assessments and this period offers students the opportunity to reflect on their efforts and build both confidence and resilience.

Building Upgrades – Library and Ovals Projects
Our campus continues to develop with exciting improvements underway. The new library is progressing well and will be a fantastic addition to the College, providing a refreshed space for study, collaboration and exploration. Additionally, works on our ovals have begun, with excavations in progress to install cabling for the new lighting project. We anticipate completing this project by May 2025, enhancing our facilities and supporting our students' Beyond the Classroom pursuits.

75th Anniversary Celebrations
Next year, we are excited to celebrate Marcellin College’s 75th anniversary—a milestone that reflects our long-standing strength in the community. Plans are underway for a series of events to mark this special occasion and we look forward to sharing more details soon. We hope that you will join us in commemorating this remarkable journey and celebrating our history together.

Upcoming Event
Next Friday, we are excited to host our Alumni Reunion evening, welcoming back past students from the classes of 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014. This will be a time to reconnect, share stories and celebrate the lasting bonds formed here at Marcellin College. These gatherings remind us of the enduring spirit and camaraderie that defines our College community.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we move forward together with HEART capping off what has been a wonderful academic year here at Marcellin College.

God bless,

Mr Marco Di Cesare
Principal

Loving God,

In this time of remembrance, we hold in our hearts those we have loved and who now rest in your embrace. We thank you for their presence in our lives and the ways they shaped us by their love.

We especially remember family and friends who have gone before us, trusting they are united with you in peace. May your eternal light shine upon them and keep them close in our hearts.

We lift up all who suffer alone in the world, and we ask for the strength to bring hope and justice to those in need.

Amen.

St Mary, our Good Mother…pray for us. 
St Marcellin Champagnat…pray for us. 
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop…pray for us. 
And let us always remember to…pray for one another.

Faith & Mission

Our Marist Heart and Dilexit Nos:
Nurturing a Spirit of Love and Compassion
In Pope Francis’ latest encyclical, Dilexit Nos ("He Loved Us"), he invites us to rediscover the deep, transformative love at the heart of our faith, embodied in the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This devotion isn’t only about personal spirituality; it’s a call to extend love and compassion to others, to heal divisions and to foster unity in a fragmented world. The Pope urges us to focus on love as the core of our mission, reminding us that “only love will save humanity” as we build relationships and communities based on care and solidarity.

This message resonates profoundly with our Marist Heart at Marcellin College. Like Pope Francis, St. Marcellin Champagnat cherished the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary as models of compassion, humility, and dedication. He believed that, like Mary who nurtured Jesus, we too are called to “bring Christ-life to birth” through the way we live and love in our daily interactions. In his words, “I leave you in the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. They are such good places!” This belief was central to Marcellin’s mission.

At Marcellin College, our Marist Heart values—Humility, Excellence, Acceptance, Resilience and Trust—are grounded in this tradition. These values guide our students in becoming not only good citizens but also compassionate Christians who embody the love and service that St. Marcellin championed. Pope Francis’ call in Dilexit Nos to serve and love others reminds us of the same mission St Marcellin envisioned: a Church and community enlivened by acts of love and humility.

For our Marcellin College community, this spirituality teaches us that our faith is not static but lived in action, grounded in a heart-centred approach that mirrors Jesus’ and Mary’s love for all people. As we foster this Marist Heart, may we embrace Pope Francis’ and St. Marcellin’s vision, making our lives a reflection of God’s infinite love.

Breakfast Fundraiser
Game Changers have been cooking up bacon and egg rolls for hungry mouths coming to school. The event is a fundraiser for the Exodus Community and St Mary’s House of Welcome, two of the charities that Marcellin College supports. The next breakfast fundraiser will be on Friday, 22 November. The rolls are $5 each.

Praying for our Deceased Loved Ones
November is a special month of remembrance in the Catholic Church, beginning with All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. Throughout this month, we honour and pray for our deceased loved ones.

On Thursday 28 November, we will gather for our annual Mass for the Deceased in the Functions Room at 7:30pm, followed by a light supper. Families, especially those who have experienced loss this year, are warmly invited to join us in this time of reflection and prayer.

Christmas Hamper Appeal: Spreading Joy and Kindness this Christmas!
This Advent season, our Game Changer students are coordinating a Christmas Hamper Appeal, and we invite all students and their families to be part of this great initiative. As we celebrate the spirit of giving, we aim to create joy for those in need and spread the warmth of the season.

How Can You Contribute?

It's simple! We encourage everyone to contribute non-perishable food items and other donations that can help make someone's Christmas a little brighter. Students can bring their donations into their Pastoral Classes, where designated boxes will be available to collect your thoughtful contributions.

Deadline for Donations: Tuesday, 3 December

To ensure we have ample time to organise and deliver these gifts of kindness, we kindly request that all donations be brought in by Tuesday 3 December.

Destination of Your Generosity: St Mary's House of Welcome

All collected donations will be presented at our End of Year Student Mass to St Mary's House of Welcome, an organisation committed to supporting the disadvantaged and individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. Your contributions will directly impact those in our community who need it most, providing them with the spirit of Christmas and a sense of care and support from our community.

Let's demonstrate the true meaning of Christmas by showing compassion, generosity, and solidarity.

Ms Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission

Year 9 and 10 Game Changer students have begun collecting for our annual donation drive for St Mary's House of Welcome, a charity that provides support and services to those who are experiencing homelessness or disadvantage. We are collecting non-perishable food items that will go towards Christmas hampers for those clients of St Mary's House of Welcome, to hopefully bring some cheer this festive season. Donations will be collected in pastorals on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays or can be placed in the boxes at Marist House Main Reception. 

We thank all families, staff and students for their generosity. 

Ms Mali Robinson, Faith In Action Coordinator 

Learning & Teaching

As you read this, Year 10 and 11 students will be beginning their end-of-year exams. Year 9 students will sit English and Mathematics exams next week.

The exams are a very clear reminder that we are so close to the end of the year.

As we embark on this final stretch of 2024, it is tempting to let our focus waver but, this is an important time of reflection and preparation. Our Head Start program is designed to provide students with the best possible beginning to the upcoming academic year. It encourages personal reflection, goal setting and foundation building. 

Head Start
Our Head Start Program will commence on Monday, 25 November and run until Thursday, 5 December 2024. (Year 12 2025 VM students will complete their work placement and commence a one-week Head Start program on Monday, 2 December 2024). 

Participation in the Head Start Program is compulsory, with attendance contributing to students' attendance percentages for 2025. All students are required to attend in full summer uniform and in accordance with all the expectations set out in our Personal Presentation Standards.  Students do not need textbooks or special resources for this program, but they are required to bring their laptop computers, workbooks and pens.

The Head Start Program plays a crucial role in helping students get acquainted with the curriculum for the new year and easing them into the challenges and expectations of their new subjects. The curriculum delivered will focus on essential concepts and skills that will form the foundations of the first units of work in 2025. This is assessable and examinable material.

By beginning their studies early, students gain an invaluable preview of the material, building essential knowledge and skills to support their progress in 2025. This early exposure helps ease the typical adjustment period at the start of the year, allowing students to feel prepared and confident as they begin their academic journey. In addition, Head Start encourages students to develop a proactive approach to learning, helping them to set personal goals and establish effective study habits. This program sets a positive tone for the year, fostering growth and encouraging students to take ownership of their educational journey. We look forward to seeing students embrace this opportunity and make the most of the Head Start Program as they prepare for an exciting and successful year ahead!

During Head Start classes, students entering Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 will receive home study activities to be completed over the coming Christmas break. While we recognise that balance and a chance to rejuvenate is important, we seek to ensure students have the best practices to set them up for success in the VCE. Students will be expected to have completed the home study work as outlined by their teachers and may be required to attend a supervised study session in their own time to catch up incomplete work.   

2025 Book and Resource List
Information about the process for ordering of textbooks and other resources for the 2025 school year is being distributed as students receive their subject allocations. Information for Year 11 and 12 2025 was released last Friday, coinciding with the distribution of their subjects for next year. Other year levels will follow shortly, as their programs are made available.

This information will be distributed via Compass and I ask families and students to keep an eye on new posts.

The College, in association with Campion Education, provides an online book and resources list.

2025 Year 11 and 12 students and their families are encouraged to consider ordering the English books via the Compass Early English Book List – this will ensure that books are delivered prior to the Christmas break. 

Other year levels and other book and resource orders must be completed by Wednesday, 11 December 2024 to ensure delivery in January 2025.

Departing Year 12 Access to Compass
As our Year 12 Class of 2024 students prepare for the completion of their exams and final departure from the College, a reminder that this will also mark the end of student and family access to College resources such as Compass.

Access to Compass for departing Year 12s and their families will cease on Wednesday, 1 January 2025.

If there is anything that families require from Compass, perhaps copies of past reports, these should be downloaded and saved by Tuesday, 31 December 2024.

Ms Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching

Student Wellbeing

Pastoral Care 2025

Our new Pastoral structure for 2025 will be introduced at the commencement of Head Start on Monday, 25 November when our 2025 academic classes begin.

Our Leadership and Pastoral Care Teams have been working for many months to carefully structure a system to meet the distinct needs of our students through the different stages of their secondary education. The new pastoral classes will now be split across junior (Years 7 to 9) and senior (Years 10 to 12) to ensure that all students receive the guidance and care that they require to thrive in both the academic and wellbeing space.

As part of this structure, lunch and recess breaks will be aligned with the junior and senior pastoral groups and both junior and senior classes will be contained to respective areas of the College.

Your child will find out their 2025 Pastrol Group and Leader  in the coming week. We encourage parents to direct any questions regarding the new structure to their child’s Pastoral Leader.

Personal Presentation Standards

Please be aware that students are required to dress in full summer uniform for the commencement of their Head Start classes and we once again appreciate your attention to ensuring that you child adheres to the Personal Presentation Standards of the College.  This includes the requirements of wearing full College uniform (only shirt or blazer as top layer outside of the College) and to be clean shaven every day.

Once again, please direct any queries regarding uniform to your child’s Pastoral Leader.

We look forward to welcoming your child into their new 2025 Pastoral Group on Monday, 25 November.

Mr Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Pat Cronin Foundation Workshop - Thursday, 7 November

During Extended Pastoral, the Year 9 cohort gathered in the Placidus Lecture Theatre to participate in the Be Wise presentation conducted by Martine, one of the facilitators from the Pat Cronin Foundation. The founder of the Pat Cronin foundation are the parents of a young man who was killed by a coward punch in 2016 while helping a friend who was being attacked. Pat Cronin's story highlights the worst possible outcome of social violence and the organisation serves to assist young people in recognising the consequences of impulsive decisions, particularly when acting in anger.

The theme of the presentation is Violence is Never OK: Outcomes of a Coward Punch and allowed for students to explore the importance of emotional regulation and anger management, as well as equipping them with strategies to manage in situations where violence may be escalating. 

We look forward to welcoming back the Pat Cronin Foundation in the future to continue to empower our students to make positive choices.

Ms Christina Cammarano
Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator

Sustainability Report

As this week is National Recycling Week, it is timely to remind ourselves of the impact our choices have on the environment in which we live.

Recycling tips for households:

• Did you know that the soft-plastics recycling trial has returned to selected Melbourne suburbs, including several Eastern suburbs supermarkets? Read which ones here.
• Utilise the Container Deposit Scheme (CDS). Have a CDS collection box at home, and earn money by returning drink containers to a nearby drop-off point – Read more about the Container Deposit Scheme.
• E-Waste is growing 3x faster than any other waste stream. Your laptops, phones, batteries and cords contain hazardous materials that don’t belong in landfill – How to recycle your e-waste.
• Have conversations at home about what can and can’t be recycled. Understanding this fosters responsible habits in all of us, and prevents contamination.
• Ever wondered where your recycling goes? Find out more with Sustainability Victoria.
• Minimising single use items – small changes add up. Sustainability Victoria.

If you have interest in joining the Green Team, please contact Mr Holliday

Marcellin College Green Team

From the Health Centre

As the warmer months approach, it's the perfect time to remind everyone about the importance of staying sun smart and taking precautions against seasonal allergies and hayfever. Being mindful of our health and wellbeing is essential as we enjoy more time outdoors.

Exposure to the sun can be enjoyable, but it's important to protect your skin against harmful UV rays. Even on cooler or cloudy days, UV levels can be high, especially between 10am  and 4pm. Here are some key tips to stay sun smart:

Slip on a shirt with long sleeves for extra coverage.

Slop on sunscreen with SPF 30+ or higher, reapplying every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.

Slap on a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, neck, and ears.

Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours.

Slide on sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage.

Spring and early summer bring higher pollen counts, which can worsen symptoms of allergies and hayfever for many people. Itchy eyes, sneezing and nasal congestion are common, but there are ways to help reduce symptoms:

Monitor pollen levels and check the daily pollen forecast to plan outdoor activities when pollen levels are lower.

Stay indoors during peak pollen times usually in the early morning or late afternoon.

Use antihistamines or nasal sprays f you experience hayfever symptoms; consult with your doctor to find the most effective options for you.

Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities to remove pollen from your body and hair.

If you notice persistent symptoms, such as rashes, difficulty breathing or ongoing nasal congestion, please don’t hesitate to visit the Health Centre. We’re here to support you, whether you need advice on sun safety, allergy management or any health concerns as we move through this season.

Eryn Seach
College Nurse

From our Learning Areas

Performing Arts

2024 Junior Production

Well done to all cast, crew and staff from Our Lady of Mercy (OLMC) and Marcellin College on an outstanding production of A Christmas Carol. It was truly an amazing effort and showcase of the very talented students we have. Students performed six shows between 7 - 10 November, including two sell-out shows to our feeder primary schools. Congratulations on a wonderful production!

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Senior Production Auditions

They're creepy and they're kooky
Mysterious and spooky
They're all together ooky
The Addams Family...

Auditions for the 2025 senior production, The Addams Family will be held on Thursday, 28 November in the MPAC Theatre. Students in Year 9-12 in 2025 may audition.

We look forward to seeing as many students get involved in what will be another fun and rewarding experience in collaboration with  Our Lady of Mercy, Heidelberg.

Ms Michelle Bellis
Performing Arts Teacher

Staff Profile

Hello, my name is James Giannoukos, and I’ve been part of the Marcellin College community for just over 7 years. My first six years as a student left a lasting impression on me, inspiring me to foster the same curiosity, confidence and passion for learning that my teachers once instilled in me. I’ve now spent over a year at Marcellin College teaching students in psychology across Years 10 to 12. What I love most about my role is being a part of a community with a strong sense of belonging and seeing my students have those ‘lightbulb’ moments – when they grasp complex psychological concepts and realise how they apply to their own lives. When I’m not at the College, I can be found at record stores, trying to use operant conditioning to train my dog Oreo to roll over (not quite there yet…) and enjoying some delicious Greek food with mates.

Mr James Giannoukos
Psychology Teacher, Class of 2016 Alumnus

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Billy and I am in Year 11. I love watching sport at the MCG where I have recently become a member. What I love most about Marcellin College is that there are so many different opportunities that you can partake in. When I am not studying, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family and playing sport. In the future I hope to become a landscaper and travel around Australia. The jump from Year 10 to 11 has been tough but worth it as I have developed skills that will hopefully last for the rest of my life. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to participate in the 2nds Footy program where I got a kick (thankfully). I’ve have been very fortunate to make many friends at the College and would recommend to any younger student to get out in the school community and have a go at as many things as possible as you may find what you want to do in the future.

Billy C
Year 11, Lavalla House

College Events

2024 Alumni Reunion Evening

Step back in time and join us on Friday, 22 November for the 2024 Alumni Reunion Evening for the graduating classes of 1974, 1984, 1994, 2004 and 2014.

Relive memories, catch up with old mates and walk the halls of Marcellin College, Bulleen.

Welcome drink and canapes on arrival. Bar prices throughout the night. Partners are welcome to attend. Strict adults-only event.

Please share with those who attended the above years. Book your tickets today.

New date - February 2025

The Marcellin College Parents & Friends Group's Relax and Rewind Cocktail event has been deferred to February 2025. Don't worry, the same fun and energy will be brought to the event in the new year!

Those who have already booked will receive any email advising of the new date.

Thank you for all your support throughout the year. Stay tuned for new details in Term 1 next year.

Community News

Second-Hand Uniform Shop

A reminder the Second-Hand Uniform Shop, located behind Marist House, is open the first Friday of every month. The annual end-of-year sale will be on Tuesday, 10 December. Stock up for 2025!

St Bede’s Primary School Community Market

Friday, 29 November 5 – 9 pm. See flyer below for more details.

Volunteering in 2025

Are you considering volunteering in 2025? There are many opportunities for you to get involved including:

• Canteen Volunteers
• Sports Officials
• Uniform Shop Attendants
• Parents & Friends Group
• Business & Community Network
• Rugby Support Group
• Friends of Music & Performing Arts
• General Volunteer

To apply for any of the above opportunities, please click here.

Marcellin College is turning 75!

In 2025, Marcellin College will celebrate its 75th anniversary. We have a number of activities planned, including a special evening for our community. More details will be announced early next year.

We are looking for stories, photos and any mementos to help bring this milestone celebration to life. Please email community@marcellin.vic.edu.au with any items you wish to donate or stories you wish to share in Marcellin Life and more.

Careers News

Morrisby Profile

Year 9 students recently completed their Morrisby profile. Morrisby is a standardised assessment which blends assessments and questionnaires to suggest subjects, careers and broader study areas for the individual.​ 

Contrary to what some may think, its purpose is not to pigeonhole or pick the most suited career necessarily. It identifies a range of careers and study areas which suit a blend of aptitudes, interests and personality – then provides the tools to explore and refine their list of suggestions based on a range of factors including expected academic attainment. One-on-one feedback meetings will commence the start of 2025.

Work experience 2025

We recently provided current Year 9 students with details of opportunities for work experience in 2025. This is not a compulsory program. Students are given an opportunity to opt in to a variety of industries where we have ongoing partnerships.

In addition, if any families with business or industry connections who would like to have an ongoing partnership with the college to take on work experience students, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us via the College on 9851 1589 or email careers@marcellin.vic.edu.au

Year 12 Results and ATAR Service

VCE Study Scores, ATAR and VTAC-scaled Study Scores will be available to students via the Results and ATAR website and the Results and ATAR App from 7am on Thursday 12 December 2024. 

Students will receive a statement of VCE Study Scores from the VCAA, and those who applied for courses through VTAC this year and have paid their VTAC processing fees, will be sent an ATAR statement in the mail.

Students who wish to receive their results online, will need to register at Results and ATAR before results are released.

Registrations are already open, and students are encouraged to register soon. 

Note: To register, students need their VCAA student number and will be requested to choose a secure password on registering.

Sport Report

Meet these outstanding young men who will lead our Summer Sport teams in Basketball, Tennis and Cricket. We wish them all the best as they pursue success on and off the field in 2025.

We also wish all students participating in a Summer Sport the very best in what is shaping up to be a highly competitive season. Thank you to all staff and coaches for the way you have embraced the season so far.

Good luck to all boys competing in round four.

To learn more about our team captains and to follow our Sport program, please visit the Compass news feed.

Ben Reynolds
Head of Sport

Ben, a dedicated Year 11 student from Lavalla House, has excelled in both sports and academics at Marcellin College. Starting basketball in Year 8, he made his 1st team debut in Year 9, leading to a memorable 2023 championship and a recent selection for the AGSV representative team. 

Balancing rigorous schoolwork with a packed training schedule, Ben studies VCE subjects like HPE, Psychology and Business Management. As team captain, he aims to mentor younger players and cultivate a supportive, successful team environment.

His advice to newcomers?

Pursue a sport you love, as it makes hard work worthwhile. With leadership and commitment, Ben strives to inspire future players and uphold Marcellin College’s basketball legacy.

Evan, a Year 12 student from Augustine House, has been a standout tennis player since joining Marcellin College, debuting for the 1st team in Year 7. Last season, he went undefeated while competing in the top position and has twice represented Marcellin College in the AGSV team.

Balancing a rigorous training schedule with academics, Evan is also involved in activities like the Altissima program. As team captain, he looks forward to building a supportive environment and guiding younger players.

His advice to juniors?

Enjoy the game, stay positive, and have fun on the court.

Outside school, Evan competes in Men’s Pennant at Bulleen Tennis Club. This year, he aims to lead his team to a strong season and inspire his teammates.

Hayden, a Year 11 student from Champagnat House, is a committed Marcellin athlete in both football and cricket, making his First XI cricket debut in Year 9 with a memorable first AGSV wicket. Balancing school and sports, he trains four days a week and studies VCE subjects like Psychology, Business Management, and Sport and Recreation.

As captain, Hayden is excited to guide younger players and build a strong cricket team focused on persistence, teamwork, and skill.

His advice to juniors?

Stick with your sport—dedication pays off. Competing with Northcote United and Melbourne Cricket Club, Hayden aims to inspire Marcellin’s future cricket stars.