The Eagle 3 May 2024

Principal's Report

Dear Marcellin College Community,

I have returned from an amazing experience where I, along with 26 other Marist educational leaders, completed a pilgrimage that followed in the footsteps of St Paul, followed by an experience in Champagnat country.  This spiritual journey allowed us to delve into the early Church’s history and St Paul’s transformative path. We then moved to La Valla in France where we visited significant sites related to our founder, St Marcellin, and other places that are important to our Marist story. The experience deepened my appreciation for our rich heritage and I look forward to sharing more of my experiences with staff and students later in the term.

This week has seen us celebrate together at our Inter-House Athletics Carnival. I enjoyed experiencing this tradition after a number of years where we were unable to hold the event. My congratulations to Kenny House on their hard-fought victory and to all students who challenged themselves throughout the day. I was particularly impressed with the array of costumes worn by our Year 12 students on the day and how all students contributed to the sense of community on the day. 

Our music students are currently travelling to Mount Gambier to showcase, perform and compete in the Generations in Jazz music festival. We wish them all the best. Along with many parents, I had the pleasure of previewing some of their performances on Tuesday at our Jazz Night. They are a talented and impressive group of young men and I look forward to hearing of their successes when they return.

Lastly, I encourage each family to participate in my review which can be found in a Compass post by Mr Nicholas Moloney. I am looking forward to the process and encourage you to fill out the survey. 

Together, let us continue to build on the exceptional legacy of our college community. Thank you for your ongoing support and involvement.

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

Gracious God,
As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the canonisation of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, we thank you for the gift of his life, his unwavering dedication to education, and his profound love for young people. As we reflect on his legacy, may we be inspired by his example of humility, compassion, and tireless service. Grant us the grace to follow in his footsteps, nurturing the seeds of faith he planted, and continuing to build communities of love and learning in his honour. May Saint Marcellin Champagnat intercede for us and guide us as we strive to live lives of faith, hope, and love.
Amen.

Faith & Mission

On 18 April, the Church celebrated the 25th anniversary of the canonisation of Saint Marcellin, which took place on 18 April 1999 when Pope John Paul II declared St Marcellin Champagnat a Saint of the Universal Church. The canonisation of St Marcellin is a significant moment in the history of the Marist community as we celebrate Marcellin’s holiness and the impact of his life and work.

The process of canonisation is a lengthy one. Marcellin Champagnat’s journey to sainthood began with the formal opening of his cause on 9 August 1896, granting him the title of Servant of God. He was later declared Venerable by Pope Benedict XV on 11 July 1920. Pope Pius XII beatified him on 29 May 1955, and finally, Pope John Paul II canonised him on 18 April 1999. Marcellin’s life exemplified simplicity, trust in God, and a deep concern for the needs of children and young people. His legacy continues to inspire the global Marist family to follow Jesus, live in fraternity, and serve those most in need, just as he did.

I was blessed last year to have the opportunity to visit St Marcellin’s statue last year at the Vatican. His statue is situated immediately in front of Pope Francis’ residence, so stories abound about how every morning, when the Pope wakes and opens the curtains, the first image he sees is that of St Marcellin!

As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of his canonisation, let us strive to keep the Marist charism alive and relevant in our time, guided by Marcellin’s example and devotion to Mary, our Good Mother.

Youth Group Gathering – St Bridget’s Parish Hall
Students from Years 7–9 are invited to join the next Youth Group Gathering on Friday, 10 May from 5:30 – 7:00 pm, at St Bridget’s Parish Hall, 48 Sweyn St, Balwyn North. The Youth Group meets every second Friday of the month, except if the Friday falls on the school holidays.

For further information, contact Mrs Geralyn McCarthy at Marcellin College.

Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Fatih & Mission

Student Wellbeing

As we dive into the second term of the academic year, it's evident that our school community is buzzing with activity. From the commencement of our winter AGSV season to the upcoming student leader workshop, there's a palpable sense of energy and enthusiasm among our students and staff.

I'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Zoe Schulz for her dedicated efforts in organising our student leader workshop. This event provides our student leaders with valuable opportunities to collaborate with their House Leaders on social justice initiatives and student engagement projects. It's a testament to our commitment to nurturing leadership skills and fostering a sense of responsibility within our student body.

Speaking of our AGSV season, it's been great to see the enthusiasm and sportsmanship displayed by our students as they participate in various sporting activities. However, amidst the excitement, it's crucial for us as parents and caregivers to prioritise the safety and well-being of our children. I urge you to take a moment to carefully read the information on Compass regarding head knocks and concussion management. By working together, we can ensure the safety of our students on and off the field.

Typically, I focus on sharing resources and insights related to student wellbeing. However, this week, I'd like to shift the spotlight to parent wellbeing. The demanding role of parenting often leaves little room for self-care, yet it's essential for maintaining a healthy balance in our lives. In my latest article, I explore the challenges of parental fatigue and offer practical tips on how to prioritise your own well-being amidst the hectic demands of daily life. You can read the article here.

I hope this serves as a gentle reminder to all of us to carve out time for self-care and recharge our batteries regularly. By nurturing our own well-being, we become better equipped to support the growth and development of our children.

On Tuesday, 14 May Dr Justin Coulson will be holding an online event to answer one of schools and parents' most frequently asked questions: How do we make kids more resilient?  

This 60-minute online session is aimed at parents as well as educators. The College has registered for this session for our parent and educator community. In this session, parents will learn the psychological secrets that build their child’s sense of identity, strengths, and growth mindset to perform better, be happier and build resilience.

Click on the banner below to register and attend the online session.

Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Learning & Teaching

Semester 1 Examinations
Our semester 1 examination period will begin on Thursday, 6 June (concluding on Thursday, 13 June).

This year all Year 10 and all Unit 1 subjects (Year 11 subjects) will have a semester exam.

This is the first time in many years where all Year 10 subjects will be engaged in the examination process and this represents a crucial stride in fostering academic preparedness and continuity. Re-introducing these exams, alongside the recently expanded Unit 1 examination period, allows students to acclimate to the rigors of formal assessments earlier in their educational journey, priming them for the challenges ahead. Moreover, integrating Year 10 exams into the existing structure promotes a seamless transition into senior years, where exams carry greater significance for future pathways.

Details of the exam timetable and arrangements for all year levels will shortly be made available via Compass.

An exam is a very specific form of assessment, and practice is an important part of developing the skills and confidence to excel in this context.

Students will be provided study guides from their teachers but, some general exam preparation tips are provided below. It is important for students to start exam preparation early, to give themselves the best chance of retaining the information they need.

If you or your child is looking for any exam preparation tips at this time, the document attached offers some tips to get started.

General Achievement Test (GAT)
All students undertaking a Unit 3&4 sequence are required to complete the GAT, including students who are unscored or studying for a Vocational Major Certificate.

The GAT is utilised by the Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority (VCAA) as part of the final check on external assessment scores, and in some studies, for statistical moderation. In both of these cases, it can influence student’s VCE scores.

Scored VCE students should also note that the GAT is used to calculate a derived examination score (DES). Students may need to apply for a DES if they are unable to complete a written examination in one or more subjects. This is a very important back-up for students leading into the final exams.

In addition, since 2022 the GAT provides students with an opportunity to demonstrate they meet the Victorian Literacy and Numeracy Standards expected at a senior secondary level.

An information brochure on the GAT has been prepared by VCAA for students. You can download a copy here.

The GAT in 2024 is scheduled for Tuesday, 18 June.

SAVE THE DATE: Course Selection Time
It is already time to start thinking about 2025! At the beginning of Term 3, students will be asked to consider and submit their subject selections for next year.

There are number of opportunities, leading up to the final submission of selections, for students and families to learn more about our Year 9-12 programs. Two key events are our Parent Information Nights, and our Subject & Careers Expo.

SAVE THE DATE: The Parent Information Nights are being held

• Year 10 2025 on Thursday, 6 June 2024
• Year 9 2025 on Tuesday, 11 June 2024
• Year 11 2025 on Thursday, 13 June 2024

Following the mid-year holidays, families are also invited to attend our Subject & Careers Expo on Thursday, 18 July.

Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching

From our Learning Areas

Marcellin Mini Master Chef
Five Year 9 students attended the first session of their four-week cooking course, producing two excellent soups, garlic bread and croutons.

The course is designed to be a full culinary cooking experience, with students learning to cook three different courses and presenting their skills to an invited audience in the final week.

Thanks to the excellent teaching of Hilary Salmon, the students successfully prepared two soups - Italian Wedding Soup and Creamy Sweet Potato Soup. We are grateful to Manningham Uniting Church for generously allowing us to use their facilities.

The next session is the main course!

Students in the course are Krish, Will, Gianni, Oliver and Robbie.

Rosemary Chapple, Student Counsellor

STEM Club
STEM education is an integral component of the curriculum in schools and allows students to enhance their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Various STEM initiatives are being incorporated in the science curriculum at Marcellin College to provide an opportunity for students. The STEM Club has been introduced at the College in 2024 and students are currently working on designing and programming rescue robots. Teams that are ready for competitions will be allowed to compete in the RoboCup Jr competition.

Rajnesh Ram, Science Learning Leader

In the STEM Club, we have been working hard on preparing for the upcoming RoboCup Jr competitions. Students have been working in teams to create a robot for the Riley Rover Rescue Line Challenge, which involves both building and coding a bot that can traverse a challenging obstacle course, before collecting an object and doing it all again. We have made some excellent progress so far with some promising first builds, and it has been great to see the boys produce some great ideas.

We are looking forward to initiating the coding process and seeing the heights that the boys will take their robots to.

Luca Ryan, 2024 Science Captain

Australian Schools Cyber Challenge
A number of Marcellin College students, who shall remain anonymous, are busily competing in the Australian Schools Cyber Challenge. To date they have undertaken a number of challenges, unpicking cryptographic keys, investigating network intrusion and hardening systems against hackers. These young men are among us and doing a great job at some particularly difficult simulations, see https://www.ascc.cyberpathways.com.au/2024 for details. In support of these initiatives Marcellin College has a number of subjects available for Year 9 and 10 students which include, but are not limited to, topics such as Cyber Security, AI, Cyber Warfare, Drones and Automation and Python Programming.

With subject selection soon upon us and a growing call for workers in Cyber Security, AI, and National Security, choosing a Digital Technologies subject at Marcellin College is a wise choice. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.

Nathan Hutchings, Digital Literacy Leader

The Vinnies Winter Sleepout is on again. Students and staff are invited to join in solidarity  on Thursday, 13 June to raise awareness and support for those facing homelessness in our community. This event aims to promote empathy and reflection for those less fortunate, as we sleep out under the eaves of the Hermitage building, or within the Hermitage Atrium. Participants share a meal together and participate in activities throughout the evening. 

Please use this link below or scan the QR code to register interest. 
Further information sessions will be held for those attending. 

Our College fundraising page for the Vinnies Winter Sleepout is now live. Marcellin College Bulleen Sleepout 2024 - School Sleepouts (fundraiseforvinniesvic.org.au) 

Thank you for your support.

Share the Dignity 
In addition to St Vincent De Paul, this term we are supporting Share the Dignity. We are calling for donations of period products which will be distributed by Share the Dignity to charities across Australia. This provides access to period products for women who are homeless, fleeing domestic violence or doing it tough. We have a collection box in Marist House Main Reception for products to be dropped off. 

We thank you for your support.

Mali Robinson, Faith In Action Coordinator

Staff Profile

Hello, my name is Jesse McInnes. I am the House Leader for Lavalla and have been a member of the Marcellin College community for five years. What I enjoy most about the College is the sense of community and seeing the young Lavalla House students strive for their best. I also teach Health & Physical Education (HPE) and Year 11 General Mathematics.

When I’m not at the College, I can be found spending time with my family, chilling by the pool and watching sport. I also coach cricket for Balwyn Cricket Club.

Jesse McInnes, Lavalla House Leader

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Cristiano. I am currently in Year 8 and the SRC for Redden House. What I like most about Marcellin College is the sporting events, basketball in particular, and going outside at lunch with my friends and doing activities.

When I’m not studying I like playing basketball and riding my bike around my neighbourhood. 

In the future, I hope to study law and become a lawyer.

Cristiano, Year 8 - Redden House

Student Leadership

ANZAC Memorial Reflection
On Tuesday, 23 April, Nathan, Gianni and I visited the Templestowe War Memorial to pay our respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. The bravery, courage, and ANZAC Spirit displayed by conscripted servicemen and women, similar age to students at our College, is admirable.

Listening to veterans’ stories from various military denominations, like Dennis Clarke from Doncaster RSL was fascinating. Dennis is a proud Old Collegian, who attended the former Camberwell campus of Marcellin College.

It was a moving and solemn experience. We are very grateful for the opportunity to represent Marcellin College at such a special event.  

Xavier, 2024 Junior School Captain

World's Greatest Shave Fundraising
The College Captains are excited to announce the World's Greatest Shave is returning for 2024! As a College SRC Team, we have raised valuable funds each year for this important cause but we need your help to take it to the next level! Please contact Andrew, our College Captain, if you would like to volunteer to shave your head at our end-of-term BBQ event. If shaving your head isn’t for you, please find below a link / QR code to our donation page – whether small or large – any donation helps.

We have big goals this year so please share this link/QR code with your local sporting clubs, share it with your extended families, and any other neighbouring communities that could help us fundraise and make a difference.

If any parents or members of the community are willing to volunteer their time to shave heads, it would be greatly appreciated.

Zoe Schulz, Student Leadership Coordinator

Community News

Mother’s Day Breakfast Raffle
Raffle tickets for the annual Marcellin College Parents & Friends Group Mother’s Day breakfast raffle can now be pre-purchased. Two raffles will be drawn- on Thursday, 9 and again Friday, 10 May. Prizes include a photography package to the value of $1,000, mother and son cooking classes, gym memberships, Heide Gallery art pass and much more!

Get your tickets here. All online raffle tickets will automatically go into the draws.

Even if you aren’t attending on the day, you can still buy your raffle tickets. There are lots of prizes to be won. You have to be in it to win it!

Business & Community Network Breakfast
Join us on Wednesday, 15 May at 7 am in the Functions Room for this year’s inaugural Marcellin College Business & Community Network breakfast. Our featured speaker will be Kev Perry from Persec Services, a company dedicated to enhancing workplace safety through education and training.

Whether you're a business owner or simply interested in expanding your connections, our events offer valuable insights and potential career advancements. To book click here.

To learn more or to get involved in the Marcellin College Business & Community Network email businessandcommunity@marcellin.vic.edu.au

Get your jazz hands ready... Tickets for the M2 Production of Chicago are now on sale!

Show dates:
Friday, 17 May @7pm
Saturday, 18 May @2pm and 7pm
Wednesday, 22 May @7pm
Friday, 24 May @7pm
Saturday, 25 May @2pm and 7pm

So get your 'razzle dazzle'on, and come and support students from Our Lady of Mercy (OLMC) and Marcellin College in this wonderful performance.
Book tickets here.

Year 7 2026 Enrolments - Now Open
Enrolments for Year 7 2026 are now open and will close on Friday, 16 August 2024. To submit an application and secure your place, please visit marcellin.vic.edu.au/enrolments.

If you have a child presently in Grade 6 and have not yet enrolled for Marcellin College in Year 7 2025, please do so using the above link.

Follow us on Facebook & Instagram!
Be sure to like and follow the College’s 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.

Careers News

Work Experience, Structured Workplace Learning (SWL), School Based Apprenticeships (SBAT)…. Would you like to help our students?
There are opportunities for people in the Marcellin College community to give back to some of the students who are seeking opportunities as part of their studies. Marcellin College has three different options for students, depending on their program, to undertake work opportunities.

As a community, we are seeking expressions of interest from anyone willing to take on a student in one of these placements. 

The difference between the three programs are:

Work Experience is the short-term placement of secondary school students, generally during Years 10, with employers to provide insights into industry and the workplace. It provides students with the valuable opportunity to:

• develop employability skills
• explore possible career options
• understand employer expectations

Students are placed with employers primarily to observe and learn, not undertake activities requiring extensive training or expertise.

Structured Workplace Learning provides students with the opportunity to integrate on-the-job experience with secondary study as part of the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), the VCE Vocational Major or the Victorian Pathways Certificate.

School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) are available to secondary school students who are over 15 years old and enrolled in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), including the VCE Vocational Major, or the Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC).

If you would like to register your interest to take on a student, please contact the Marcellin College career team.

The Marcellin College Career Website
A reminder we have a separate career website for the College, which can be accessed via Compass under 'School Favourites' or via the following link: marcellincareers.com.au. This website has the latest information on careers to help keep families informed.

Kevin Kelly & Lara Ingram, Careers & Further Education

Camp, Sports and Excursions

Families holding a valid means-tested concession card or temporary foster parents are eligible to apply. A Special Consideration category also exists. Schools can receive applications from families over terms one and two.

Families can list more than one student on the application form if they are attending the same school.
Please lodge the CSEF application form at the College. Closing date is Friday, 28 June 2024.

Click here to access to application form. For more information about the CSEF click here.

Sport Report

Inter-House Athletics Carnival
Wednesday saw the entire school travel to Tom Kelly Athletics Track for our Inter-House  Athletics Carnival. Amazing weather and a great venue provided a platform for students to showcase their athletic abilities whilst strengthening House and College spirit. It offered students opportunities for leadership, personal growth and increased connection with peers and staff.

The traditional athletic running events from 100m through to 1500m mixed with the long, triple and high jumps, discus and shot put allowed boys to gain House points. The novelty events of tug of war, gumboot throw, vortex throw, sack race and tunnel ball tested out a different range of skills. At the end of five hours of events, Kenny House were named champions.

I would like to thank all the boys for their efforts on the day. I hope you really enjoyed it. I would also like to praise all the staff who acted as officials on the day and supported all the different events. It truly was a great Marcellin College day.

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport