The Eagle 15 September 2023

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

"If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."

This African proverb has played out many times over the last fortnight as many of our students participated in our Student Leadership Selection Process. It was a privilege to be involved in many of these interviews and we continue to finalise positions.

Leadership is about influence. It involves tapping into intrinsic motivation and creating a sense of purpose. When our students are able to understand the impact of their actions and believe that their time is well invested, they are more likely to take action. Whether it is students or staff, trust plays a crucial role in this process. People follow leaders they trust, not necessarily because they like them, but because they can see the leader making tough decisions that they respect. Building trust is essential.

As many of our students articulated, leadership is not just about a position. We all need to demonstrate leadership regardless of our role in the College. Importantly, at Marcellin College, leadership is also about service. A successful servant leader listens to other people, empathises with the hardships and challenges of others, is committed to win-win-win situations, and builds true friendships wherever he goes.

I am delighted to introduce our new College Captains for 2024. They have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and a commitment to our school community. We look forward to their positive impact in the coming year. 

Re-enrolment Process
We have begun timetabling our 2024 classes and budgeting for next year. As you would appreciate, it is crucial that we have accurate student and staff numbers. This impacts not only current year levels but also prospective places we can offer. Therefore, we will be implementing a re-enrolment process for 2024 that many neighbouring schools have as current practice. Families will soon be receiving details via our finance team about this. All students re-enrolling will be required to reaffirm the enrolment agreement and College policies and pay a $500 re-enrolment fee, of which $400 will be deducted from your 2024 fees. The will need to be completed by the end of October.

World's Greatest Shave
Yesterday, we came together for the World's Greatest Shave and raised more than $17,000! Congratulations to the brave young men who supported our efforts by raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation. Along with our parent hairdressers, a representative from the Leukaemia Foundation came to the College to watch and support the shaving. Thank you to all staff and students involved.

As we finish yet another busy term and look forward to a well-earned rest, I would like to commend students on a successful Term 3. A reminder that how you finish the term is as equally important to how you to start it. As we look forward to Term 4 please talk to your children about our expectations of them and to always keep our College motto of striving for the highest at the forefront. I look forward to seeing you all in the new term.

Have a safe break and God bless.

Marco Di Cesare
Principal

Faith & Mission

Celebrating Music in our College Liturgies
On Wednesday, students and staff involved in the College choir and College orchestras gathered for lunch to celebrate the wonderful achievements they have experienced throughout this year. I would particularly like to pay tribute to their role in enhancing the spiritual and cultural life of our College community and to recognise and honour their dedication, talent and generosity.

St. Augustine's quote, "When you sing, you pray twice," highlights the profound connection between music and spirituality. There is a Latin phrase often used in liturgical circles within the Church: “Lex orandi, lex credenda.” This is commonly translated to “the law of praying is the law of believing,” and expresses the idea that the ways in which we engage in worship and prayer is a reflection of our faith and what we believe about God, religious doctrine, and spirituality. Worship is not just a set of rituals or actions but a profound expression of our core beliefs and convictions.

Our College choir and musicians play a vital role in all our liturgies and College masses, including House Masses celebrated each fortnight in our Champagnat Chapel. Music has a unique ability to elevate the soul and, and when incorporated into liturgies and masses, can enhance the overall worship experience, allowing students and staff to engage more fully in prayer and in their spiritual life. We thank our College choir and musicians for helping us to pray!

The Church’s Synod on Synodality
Commencing next month, an important event is occurring within the universal Catholic Church. Called by Pope Francis, the upcoming Synod is aimed at addressing pressing issues facing the Church and fostering a more inclusive and participatory approach to decision-making.

At its core, the Synod aims to facilitate a dialogue among bishops, clergy, and laypeople on topics such as synodality, environmental concerns, and the role of women in the Church. This represents a notable departure from traditional top-down decision-making processes, embracing a more collaborative and diverse approach to discerning the Church's path forward.

This event reflects Pope Francis's commitment to listening to the voices of the faithful and embracing a more merciful and inclusive Church. By encouraging open dialogue and reflection, this Synod has the potential to strengthen the Church's mission and relevance in a rapidly changing world, fostering unity and a deeper connection between its teachings and the lived experiences of its members. As such, it marks a pivotal moment in the Church's journey toward greater openness, engagement, and relevance in the modern era.

Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission

Student Wellbeing

The poet and civil rights activist Maya Angelou famously said, “As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself and the other for helping others”. On Thursday, 14 September our community embraced the essence of these sentiments with the World’s Greatest Shave initiative in support of the Leukaemia Foundation. Thank you, to all staff, student leaders and those brave enough to either colour or cut their hair in solidarity with those suffering from blood cancers.

As we enter the Term 3 holiday period, I would like to remind all students to reflect on their learning, personal efforts, and teacher feedback this term, hopefully setting goals for a successful Term 4. A special reminder to all Year 12 students as they head into the VCAA examination period to prepare a study timetable and carefully allocate time for revision as well as self-care opportunities, as they embark on this exciting time.

Finally, thank you to all students and families for their support throughout Term 3, we look forward to a busy final term. Students and families are also reminded that Term 4 also marks the commencement of summer uniform expectations, in addition to our regular Personal Presentation Standards.

Wishing all a safe break.

Phil Kamay
Director of Students

Learning & Teaching

Exams

With the end of year Unit 3&4 exam period not far away, now is the time for students to begin preparation – if they have not already started.

As the final VCE exams cover a full years’ worth of work there is much to review and recall, so it is important to begin preparation early.

The linked Tips for Exam Preparation is filled with insights and strategies to help students achieve their best during this time.

It is worth a reminder that students achieving the highest results in VCE studies, report that they spend 3-4 hours per night, and up to 6 hours over the weekend, on studying. They also identify that they complete as many practice exam papers as possible, with an average of five practice papers per subject.

Details about the September Trial Unit 3&4 Exams are now available on Compass.

While we may not ourselves be completing the exams, there is a lot parents and families can do to support their VCE student. Here are some tips for parents to help students’ study effectively:

• Create a Supportive Environment.
• Establish a Routine: Help your child create a consistent study schedule.
• Encourage Breaks: Short breaks can help refresh the mind and prevent burnout.
• Encourage Good Diet and Exercise: Proper nutrition fuels the brain for effective studying and physical activity can reduce stress and improve concentration.
• Discuss Study Topics: Explaining concepts to others is a fantastic way to reinforce knowledge.
• Be a Quiz Master: Offer to ask questions (quiz) on the material being studied.
• Prepare for the Exam Day: On the day of the exam, ensure your child gets a good night's sleep, eats a healthy breakfast, has all their materials and is on time.

Compass Transition – Optional Parent Information Evenings
In 2024 the College will transition away from other software programs, and Compass will become our central repository and communication tool.

Compass is a broad student management system, able to consolidate many aspects of school life in one place – at the moment we are only using a small fraction of its functionality.

We recognise that its important families can access information in a timely and easy manner. Parents should be able to see and check what’s happening in the classroom, assigned homework, exam revision and assessment due dates. From the beginning of the 2024 school year, Compass will carry this information, as well as manage excursions and incursions, while continuing to provide attendance information.

To support families in this transition, we are offering the opportunity to attend an information night. Attendance is optional. These Compass Information Nights will provide more details about information that will be made available via Compass, as well as offer assistance on how to access and navigate the portal.

There are two possible dates available, for those interested in attending – please note they are a repeat, so families need only attend one of the nights. To assist with planning for these evenings, we ask for you to register (RSVP) your attendance here.

Please be aware that due to capacity restrictions, we are only able to provide two tickets per family. Students will be provided support learning the new system at school, these evenings are specifically designed for parents and carers.

Suzanne Farley,
Deputy Principal Learnig & Teaching

From our Learning Areas

Library News

As we head into the holidays it is a good time to remind ourselves of the pleasure reading a good book can have on our wellbeing. “Why reading books is good for society, wellbeing and your career,” published by The Conversation in April this year highlights just some of the benefits of reading and also some tips to help get you back into reading. One of the tips is to carry a book with you at all times to make use of those “spare” moments you may have in your day. An easy way to do this is by using ebooks or audio books. At Marcellin College we subscribe to ePlatform which allows our students and staff to borrow, download and read books via the ePlatform App. The App is free and students can log in using their school ID and password.

For the Unit 3&4 students approaching exams, we have plenty of study hints and tips on our home page (here), as well as a selection of wellbeing books on ePlatform.

Happy holiday reading from the Library Team.

Rebecca Preedy, Information Services Leader

Create23

Join us on Wednesday, 11 October for the opening of the annual art, design and technology exhibition, Create23. Tickets are free. See details below.

Student Leadership

The "World's Greatest Shave" event held at our school yesterday was a phenomenal success. Students and teachers came together to raise funds for cancer research by shaving their heads or colouring their hair in support of the Leukemia Foundation. The event fostered unity and compassion, exemplifying the power of community. The current total of funds raised by the students & staff who shaved their heads is $17,600. If you are still wishing to donate, please use the QR code.

A massive thank you to those who helped on the day and for those who shaved their heads:

Staff
Phil Viola & Ryan Edwards

Students
Anthony Adamopoulos, Michael Adamopoulos, Lachie Fogarty, Emilio Abajas, Sam Young, Daniel Perera, Kaleb Splatt, Angus Ellis, Matt Paron, Cooper Olsen, Jakson Hall, Matt Hanslow, William Black,
Ben Bodycoat, Tom Golding, Riley Brennan, Brian Nguyen, Connor Whyte, Alby Fernando & Marcus Carbone.

Adrian Tomada, Student Leadership Liaison

Health Centre

Hay fever

Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is an allergic response from your immune system that causes sneezing, runny nose and watery itchy eyes. This is triggered by allergens either seasonal like pollens and grasses or  year-round allergens like dust mites and animal fur.

With the current unusual warm weather, many students are presenting with severe hay fever, with their eyes being particularly affected.

So, how can we support students dealing with hay fever while at school? .... here are some tips.

• Take your antihistamines e.g Zyrtec, Claratyne,Telfast or any home brand medication, before school
• Stay off the ovals at lunch and recess
• Rinse your eyes with warm water, don’t rub them
• Wash hands regularly
• Stay indoors where possible

If you find that your hay fever symptoms are not well controlled, consult with your general practitioner (G.P) or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest additonal treatments. Medications that can help include:

• Oral antihistamines
• Intranasal sprays
• Antihistamine eye drops

Your health and comfort are important to us, so please don't hesitate to seek assistance if you need it.

Gaye Viney, College Nurse

Community News

2023 Alumni Reunion Evening 

We have changed up our reunions to allow for more people to attend.

On Friday, 17 November we will welcome back the graduating classes of 1973, 1983, 1993, 2003 and 2013 for a special reunion night that will include a trip down memory lane.

Please share the flyer with anyone you know from the above year levels.
For further information and to book a ticket click here.

End of Year Social Event

Save the date! The Parents & Friends Group Rewind & Relax end-of-year social event is back! Last year was a hit and we look forward to welcoming many more parents and friends this year. Tickets will go on sale at the start of Term 4. Keep an eye out for the booking link.

Staff Profile

Hello, my name is Zoe Schulz. I have been a member of the Marcellin College community since the start of this year. My role is as a HPE and Science teacher. What I enjoy most about the College is the friendly staff members, the fun opportunities to get involved within the sporting context, along with the hilarious one-liners and celebratory dance moves from the students each day.

When I’m not at the College, I love heading out camping for the weekend, catching up with friends and family, going for hikes, running, or to walk my dog, Brucie. I love cooking and gardening and am looking forward to the summer season starting back up again so I can get back to water skiing and wakeboarding on the river.

Zoe Schulz, Health/PE & Science Teacher

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Angus and I am in Year 9. What I love most about Marcellin College is the extra-curricular activities that the school offers to students, some of my favourites are the wide range of musical instruments on offer and the many ways that students can get involved with the music department, I also love Game Changers. This a group that we can join, where you do solidarity work such as delivering bread to people who cannot afford to buy it themselves, helping students at St Pius Primary School with their homework and going on trips to countries such as Cambodia where we do work such as helping to teach students and mending houses and fences (this has sadly not been done in a while due to the pandemic). Marcellin College also has a wide range of sports that students can get involved in such as soccer, AFL, squash and many more.

When I am not studying, I enjoy reading books such as The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, playing sports such as soccer, basketball, and squash (both for the College and outside of school for local clubs) and I especially enjoy spending time with my family. I love being able to spend time in Marysville where I am spending most of my day either cutting word or doing something else in the garden. In the future I hope to pursue a career in medicine.

Careers & Pathways News

VTAC & SEAS Applications Closing Soon

As we move into the Term 3 break, the focus has been on the Year 12 students and which pathway they will be hoping to take post school. For students who are looking to attend University or Tafe, they are setting up their VTAC profile and submitting their course preferences. As well as any other additional information that needs to be completed.

The careers team have also been engaging in positive discussions with students who are looking towards a trade, police force, gap years, etc. In the modern world there are many options for students and often the most challenging aspect is navigating through all the information and the different processes.  

As mentioned previously, we have been encouraging students who are applying through VTAC to have their applications and preferences completed this month so they can focus on exams without the added pressure of VTAC.

A reminder that payment for timely applications for VTAC close on Thursday, 28 September. Please submit your application on time as late fees apply. Course preferences can still be changed after payment and will remain open until Wednesday, 13 December.

SEAS and Scholarship applications submitted by Friday, 15 September will receive a guaranteed document review. SEAS is an important process to recognise any circumstances outside of a student’s control that may have impacted their VCE studies.

For specific advice and one-on-one career planning, a meetings can be booked with Lara Ingram or Andrew Belli. Students are also welcome to drop into the CLC or email if they have questions or concerns.

Please continue to check the Careers website, MyMC Careers pages and Compass for up-to-date career information, events, and opportunities.

Lara Ingram & Andrew Belli, Career Counsellors

Sport Report

AGSV Athletic Championships

The AGSV Athletic Championships were held on Wednesday, 6 September at Lakeside Stadium in Albert Park. It was a great opportunity for the boys to showcase the hard work they had put in at training and hopefully earn some deserved results. The weather proved difficult for all athletes. The temperature was fine but the strong wind hindered just about all the events in one form or another. The day would see Marcellin College finish seventh overall however there were many strong individual achievements. Top three finishes are as follows:

• Third placed finishers were Lachlan Hanslow in the Under 16 400 metres, Lockhart Brownlie in the Open 800 metres, the 4x100 metre team of Will Carter, Adam Galgano, James Stefanovski and Issac Barry, James Stefanovski in the open long jump, Ned Podger-Devine in the open discus and James Martino in the Under 16 1500.
• Second place finishes go to Benjamin Bodycoat in the Under 15 800 metres missing out on the win by just 0.06 of a second, James Martino in the Under 16 800 metre, Matt Hanslow in the Under 14 hurdles, the 4x400 metre team of Will La Motte, Will Lorenz, Lockhart Brownlie and Mark Lewis Akther, James Stefanovski in the open long jump and Jack Liang in the Under 14 discus.
• A special congratulations to the boys who took out first place in their respective events,  well done to Ned Podger-Devine for his win in the boys open shot put with a throw of 13.34 metres and Benjamin Bodycoat in his dominate display in the Under 15 1500 metre.
  

The results on paper don’t show much, but the boys gave it their all against some hard competition and will come back next year as determined as ever to give another red-hot go.

Well done once again to all those who competed and especially those in the podium positions.

Lockhart Brownlie, Athletics Captain