The Eagle 1 December 2023

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

It is time to wake the parts of ourselves that are asleep - to be alert to the world around us, to say sorry for our failings and prepare in hope and anticipation for the birth of Christ. To echo the words of St Paul this weekend, we give thanks to God for all the graces that we have received through Jesus, and for enriching us in so many ways.

As we look forward to Christmas and a well-earned break, it is important for us to find time over the coming weeks to be grateful for all that we have achieved this year. In this last newsletter, it is important to highlight just a few of our successes this year.

We introduced the community to Compass as we transitioned from Schoolbox / MyMC. As we start Headstart, all learning materials will now be located on Compass. My thanks to the staff who have worked to ensure that all lesson plans, homework tasks and all learning tasks are now easily accessible through Compass. I also acknowledge and thank those parents who attended our Compass Information Sessions earlier this term. I am looking forward to 2024 as Compass becomes our 'one-stop-shop’.

This year saw us working with the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) as we reviewed our College against their School Improvement Tool. As a result, the College will be promoting a new Strategic Improvement Plan that will give us direction across all areas of the College over the next four years. Students, staff, parents and stakeholders formed part of this consultation and we look forward to sharing this in 2024.

Our newly refurbished Chirat Learning Centre opened earlier in the year and saw our Careers Practitioners, Counsellors and Learning Diversity staffed in a central area. It is an attractive space that allows for different learning and support of young people. We are currently out to tender for our library and hope to begin renovating our space early next year.

Our gifted and talented program, SOAR, has been a welcomed addition at Year 7 as we work to ensure that all of our students are being challenged academically. Next year this program will run for both Year 7 and Year 8 for the first time. There has also been a greater focus on providing a more challenging academic environment across our year levels. Post-COVID, we need to ensure that all students are being challenged and this will be a focus in 2024.

Our music area has gone from strength to strength, winning several awards this year. Our choir and music students enhance so many of the things that we offer at our College. There was a real sense of achievement this year as we hosted a lunch with our music students towards the end of this term. Our Year 12 students modelled strong leadership and I thank our music staff who oversaw many additions and improvements.

Our partnership with Our Lady of Mercy College (OLMC) saw two productions - Rock of Ages was a hit earlier this year and we are about to begin performances for our junior musical, High School Musical Jr. I enjoyed watching our students flourish on stage as they entertained the crowds. The acting and singing took us on a journey and I am grateful to the staff and students who were involved in the productions.

With 2024 just around the corner, I wish all our Marcellin College families a happy and Holy Christmas. May the true joy of Christmas be realised in all of you. I look forward to 2024 as we continue to see improvements at the College.

St Marcellin Champagnat, pray for us
Mary our Good Mother, pray for us
And may we always remember to, pray for one another

Marco Di Cesare
Principal

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 12

Next

A Prayer for Advent - by Howard Thurman
May the sounds of Advent stir a longing in your people, O God.
Come again to set us free from the dullness of routine
and the poverty of our imaginations.
Break the patterns which bind us to small commitments
and to the stale answers we have given to questions of no importance.
Let the Advent trumpet blow, let the walls of our defences crumble,
and make a place in our lives for the freshness of your love,
well-lived in the Spirit,
and still given to all who know their need and dare receive it.
Amen

Faith & Mission

High Tea with our Local Priests
We recently had the privilege of hosting a celebratory High Tea to express our deep gratitude to the priests from our local parishes for their unwavering support and commitment to our College throughout the year. Our priests play a pivotal role in various aspects of our school life, generously contributing their time and energy, especially through the celebration of whole College Masses and House liturgies.

The partnership between our school and local parishes is integral to our Catholic identity and a vital part of our mission in fostering a strong Catholic community. The school-parish partnership is at the heart of the success of Catholic schools, providing the ecclesial connection essential for effective Catholic education.

Central to these partnerships is our shared commitment to the students and their learning journey. Together, we work towards nurturing a faith-filled and supportive environment. Our heartfelt thanks go out to these priests for their ongoing dedication and partnership in this important work.

Student Leadership Gathering
Last weekend, our College Student Leaders, College Captain Andrew, Vice Captains Daniel and Anton, and Faith and Mission Captain Alessandro, participated in the Student Leadership Gathering at Phillip Island. Hosted by Marist Youth Ministry, the event was specifically tailored for students transitioning into leadership roles in 2024. The gathering brought together student leaders from various Marist schools in Victoria, providing a unique opportunity for collaboration and skill development. The weekend's activities were thoughtfully designed to equip these emerging leaders with the necessary skills and insights as they embark on their Year 12 leadership journey, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among future leaders.

Christmas Hamper Appeal
As in past years, this year Marcellin College will be donating Christmas hampers to the St Mary’s House of Welcome. St Mary’s House of Welcome provides basic essential services to people who are homeless and experiencing poverty, severe and persistent mental health issues, and those who are extremely isolated and socially marginalised.

The cost-of-living increases are pushing many individuals further into poverty this year. Can you help make a difference to these people?

We are seeking donations of non-perishable food items, new socks, beanies, scarves and toiletries which will be made up into Christmas hampers and donated to St Mary’s prior to Christmas.

I wish you and your families a happy and holy Christmas as we celebrate the birth of the Christ Child.

Geralyn McCarthy,
Deputy Principal Fatih & Mission

Student Wellbeing

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared as a school community. Like all academic years at Marcellin College, 2023 has challenged us to adapt, grow and support one another in ways we couldn't have imagined. It brings the Pastoral Care Team of the College immense joy to witness the resilience, compassion, and commitment to their studies and co-curricular activities that our students have displayed throughout these trying times.

Our focus on student wellbeing has been unwavering, and we are proud of the initiatives we've undertaken to prioritise the flourishing of our students. From our Respectful Relationships Program to daily check-ins from Pastoral leaders, we've worked collaboratively to create a nurturing environment where every student feels seen and supported.

It's essential to acknowledge the collaborative efforts of our students, parents, and educators in fostering a culture of empathy and understanding. As we bid farewell to this academic year, let us carry forward the lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the strength discovered within ourselves. The coming year holds the promise of new beginnings and continued growth. I encourage each of you to take time for self-reflection, appreciate your achievements, and set aspirational goals for the future.

May the holiday season bring joy, peace, and rejuvenation to all. I look forward to reconnecting in the new year, ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Wishing you a restful and joyous holiday season

Rocky Gentile,
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Clearing out of student lockers
As we approach the end of the academic year, students will be asked to begin clearing out their lockers by 6 December. We recommend taking things home in small, manageable batches to avoid the burden of a heavy bag. This not only ensures a smooth transition but also allows them to reflect on the year's accomplishments. Please be mindful that any items left behind will be disposed of during the College's end-of-year clean. We have asked all students to contribute to a clutter-free space, acknowledging the importance of closure and embracing the fresh start that the new year brings.

Learning & Teaching

Compass
With the beginning of Head Start, the College has ‘dipped its toes’ into the new school year.

We have also taken the final steps to complete our move to Compass. Parents should now be able to see student Head Start timetables on Compass and, for the first time, see lesson information provided by teachers.

Through the Compass parent portal, families will have access to lesson learning intentions and activities, and visibility of homework required. As 2024 officially begins you will see even more information through your child’s profile. You will see a calendar of classes, due dates and events and, for VCE parents, we will launch our 2024 SAC calendar with all upcoming assessment dates.

Speaking of assessment, all academic results will be published via Compass only from January 2024.

We recognise the importance of providing a user-friendly and efficient platform that enhances communication between teachers, students, and families and we believe this move to Compass will offer a more intuitive and streamlined experience for all users, and foster a stronger connection between home and school.

Look out for upcoming opportunities to familiarise yourself further with Compass. If you have not yet logged on to Compass, or have any questions about access, please feel free to reach out to our ICT Compass Support person, Gareth Wells, via email at gareth.wells@marcellin.vic.edu.au.

Final Closure of MyMC
As we complete our transition to Compass, MyMC will close permanently in mid-January, 2024.

Significant documents, such as student reports from previous years, will be moved to Compass however, students and families are encouraged to download any documents from MyMC that they may wish to keep before it is deactivated.

Semester 2 Reports and Final Assessments
Semester 2 reports will be available from 4 pm on Friday, 8 December. These will be released on Compass.

Final assessment results for the year will also be completed by 8 December. These will be published via MyMC. This will be the last time that academic results are published separately from student reports and the last time results are published on MyMC. In the future, I encourage families to regularly check Compass for student feedback and progress information.

Night of Excellence
The Night of Excellence is a significant annual event for Marcellin College, where we celebrate and acknowledge the outstanding achievements of our students in the areas of academic study, sport, leadership and community service. This year the evening is being held on Wednesday, 6 December.

By now student recipients and families should have received their invitations. Congratulations, in advance, to all students selected for an award.

And on that note, as the year draws to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all students on the year that has been. As they reflect on the past academic year, I encourage all to take pride in their accomplishments, celebrate their unique talents and embrace the lessons that have been learned.

Wishing everyone a well-deserved break filled with joy, relaxation and moments of reflection.

Suzanne Farley,
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching

From our Learning Areas

2023 Structured Workplace Learning

2023 Year 11 VCE Vocational Major (VM) students are enjoying three weeks of structured workplace learning in a variety of different settings. This is an excellent opportunity for our students to learn from masters of their trades, apply learnt skills from VET in real-life circumstances and meet tradespeople and gain a greater understanding of their chosen industry. This component is part of their VCE Vocational Major curriculum and next year the 2024 Year 12 students will be working one day a week which will hopefully transfer into permanent work at the end of the year. Marcellin College wishes to thank all businesses who support and mentor our students and generously give up their time to teach our boys invaluable skills and life lessons.

Fran Davey, Applied Learning & VET Leader

The Placidus Resource Centre is getting into the festive spirit and using this time to look back on a great year. Next week we will be hosting a pizza lunch for the students who have borrowed the most books over the year – well done to these students.

The physical library might be closed over the holiday break, but students are welcome to borrow books to get them through the holidays. We can renew any books that are still being read, too. The holidays can also be a good time to do a bit of a room tidy and find any stray books that may be hiding in cupboards or under the bed.

Ebooks and audiobooks are available 24/7 – just go through the Placidus Resource Centre page on the Compass link.

Have a great Christmas break from the whole PRC team.

Rebecca Preedy, Information Service Leader

Artist in Residence: Ash Keating
Some very lucky students in Years 7-11 participated in our newly introduced Artist in Residence Program! Ash Keating is a large scale abstract mural artist who uses unconventional spray painting methods to create his Art. Students had an opportunity to meet the artist and learn about his style, inspirations and techniques. Lots of great conversation was held between Ash and the students who then worked collaboratively to complete a large abstract triptych! Well done to the following students on their creativity, enthusiasm and teamwork: Nathan D, William T, Charlie L, Andrew D, Cameron P, Xavier A, Charles M, Pearce P and Sam C!

Year 8 Drama Performance Evening
Our Semester 2 Year 8 Drama students presented their incredible comedic performances to families and friends on 14 November. It was great to see their hard work in action, charming the audience with their characters and scenarios. Being able to present their work to a live audience gave students confidence, further building on skills taught in class. Thank you to all families who attended the evening and making the night a wonderful success!

Marina Sipos, Learning Leader The Arts

Pastoral Program

Pastoral Program 2023 - Goal Review

Has your son remembered to upload his completed Goal Review document to the Learning Task space on his Pastoral Page on Compass? If not, please remind him to:

• Go to his Pastoral class page
• Download the document in the Learning Task entitled Pastoral Program 2023 - Goal Review
• Complete the open questions provided within the document
• Click on the Microsoft Form to fill out the survey
• Reupload the completed document to the same Learning Task space aforementioned.

Pastoral Leaders have assisted the students this week in reflecting on their progress this year to ensure that they commence 2024 with a focus on the growth they'd like to see within themselves. 

Christina Cammarano, Student Wellbeing Coordinator

Careers News

Congratulations to all Year 12 students for finishing school. We hope you feel proud of your efforts and are excited by the prospect of what happens next.

For those who have applied for further study via VTAC, please note:

• ATARs will be released at 7 am on Monday, 11 December.
• Preferences can be changed until 4 pm on Wednesday, 13 December.
• Support will be available from the Careers Team.
• Tertiary providers run events to help you change your preferences.
• Most offers will be released on Thursday, 21 December and  Friday, 12 January.

The majority of course offers are made in December and January offer rounds. Some courses, particularly those that take low numbers, or are otherwise competitive to get into, may fill up during these two rounds. Subsequent offer rounds and supplementary offers will be made after these two main offer rounds.   

Below are some additional VTAC videos:  
How to access your course offer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1QPBnbe6Ffw&t=39s

Many of you have already worked through the preference system however, the below links are useful if you feel you want to look over it again.

• VTAC Explained | The Preference System https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCNlc7mlils
• Subscribe to VTAC for updates Subscribe to VTAC for updates 
• Further information: More information on offers here

Lara Ingram and Andrew Belli are available to assist you.

Lara Ingram & Andrew Belli, Careers and Further Education

Staff Profile

Hi, I'm Jack, and I recently joined the Marcellin College family as the Community Engagement Officer. It's only been a couple of months, but the support I've received from both staff and students has been incredible. I'm grateful for how much patience everyone has shown me as a new employee, and the knowledge shared by everyone about Marcellin College's operations has made my transition smooth.

My involvement with Marcellin College extends to working closely with our alumni. It's moving to see the pride they carry for being part of the Marcellin College community many years after their time as a student at our College. I look forward to running more alumni events and gathering stories from our former students, which will further enhance my understanding of our community and my ability to tell our unique Marcellin College story.

Outside the College gates, you will likely find me supporting the Richmond Tigers and the Boston Celtics. I collect trading cards and enjoy participating in various sports. Travelling is another passion of mine, particularly to the United States. I plan to travel more during our upcoming holiday breaks.

Jack Buckingham, Community Engagement & Publications Officer

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Jake and I’m currently in Year 9, although I call myself a Year 10 student now that we have commenced Head Start. What I love most about Marcellin College are the sporting facilities and opportunities they provide.

When I’m not studying, I enjoy playing sports. In the future I hope to become a soccer player – doesn’t everyone! I have really enjoyed this year and in particular, having great classes and teachers.

Jake (almost Year 10), Kenny House

Community News

A night to remember!
On Friday, 24 November the Marcellin College Parents & Friends Group hosted the Rewind & Relax end-of-year cocktail event, welcoming parents and carers. The evening provided an opportunity to reconnect with old friends, make new acquaintances and take a break from the busyness of another hectic year. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making the evening memorable. Whether through shared laughter or engaging conversations, it was an ideal way to conclude the year. Here’s to many more delightful gatherings in 2024!

Stepping back in time
On Friday, 17 November we were delighted to host the 2023 Alumni Reunion Evening, welcoming back graduates from the classes of '73, '83, '93, '03, and '13. It was a joy to see so many familiar faces, as alumni gathered to reminisce about their time at both our Camberwell and Bulleen campuses. Graduates had the opportunity to tour the College, exploring the halls that held memories from years past. A sincere thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this evening truly special. Looking ahead to 2024, we eagerly anticipate welcoming graduates from years  1974, 1984, 1994, 2004, and 2014. Ensure you don't miss out by ensuring your contact details are up-to-date. Click here to update your information.

NEW Bulleen Road – College Access
The 10-day work blitz to redirect Bulleen Road as part of the North-East Link Project (NELP) will wrap up next week. From 7 pm on Tuesday, 5 December the new Bulleen Road will open with access to the College via a dedicated road. Buses and other traffic will once again be able to travel to the College via Bulleen Road from Manningham Road. We appreciate your support during these changes. Please refer to the flyer below for further information.

Buses replace trains on the Hurstbridge Line in December
Buses will replace trains from 8:30 pm Friday, 1 December to the last service Monday, 18 December on sections of the Hurstbridge Line. Students are advised to plan ahead and allow extra time. Visit ptv.vic.gov.au, call 1800 800 007 or refer to the flyer below for more information.

Second-Hand Uniform Shop End of Year Annual SALE
Mark your calendars. The annual end-of-year Second-Hand Uniform Shop sale will be held on Friday, 8 December from 9:30am – 12:30pm. Pop in, say hello and pick up a bargain or two for the 2024 academic year.

2023 Ad Altissima
Exciting news! The eagerly anticipated 2023 edition of the College yearbook, Ad Altissima, will be distributed to students next week during Pastoral. Year 12 students and those who have completed their studies for the year can pick up their copy from the main reception in Marist House. Additionally, siblings of Year 12 students are welcome to collect a copy on their behalf.

Also, for any Year 12 students who haven’t registered as an alumni, you can do so by clicking here. Being registered means you won’t miss out on reunions, upcoming events and staying in touch with the College.

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram!
Be sure to like and follow the College’s new Facebook and Instagram pages where you can view all things about College life including feature news, photos and upcoming events. Stay in the know with all the latest happenings! Click here to access and follow our page.

Student Services

Lost Property
We have a number of lost property items that are still unclaimed. We kindly request parents to remind their sons to collect their lost property from either Student Services or the Gym by Thursday, 7 December. Any unclaimed items will be donated, so please make sure to collect your belongings. 

Thank you and wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year!

Sport Report

Congratulations Wyatt and Will
Year 12 students Wyatt Ballenger and Will Lorenz have taken the next step in their sporting careers by moving into mainstream professional ranks. Wyatt has signed on with the Melbourne Rebels and Will has been drafted to Port Adelaide Football Club. Both boys have sacrificed so much over many years chasing their dream of playing sport as a career. We wish both boys all the best and look forward to watching their growth post Marcellin.

Marist Cricket Carnival
Five schools from all over Australia arrive this weekend to join our community for the annual Marist Cricket Carnival. Games will be played at Marcellin College and Trinity Grammar. The College has had a long history in the carnival and sees participation in the event as a major honour for the 1^st XI squad. I wish 1^st XI Captain Braydon O’Conner, and Coach John Diano and the team all the best for the event. 
Carnival fixture and results 

Australian Volleyball Championships
Our 1^st Volleyball team heads to the Gold Coast this weekend to compete in the Volleyball Australia Schools Cup. The squad has been training hard all year in preparation for both AGSV games and this year-ending event. I wish Joshua Clake and his team all the best for the event and thank Tessa Jacobs, Colin Lio and Claudia Graham for their efforts in supporting the boys on this trip. 
Event fixture and results 

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport