The Eagle 17 May 2024

Principal's Report

Dear Marcellin College Community,

It has been a busy fortnight here at the College with a number of events, including a Grade 6 Trivia Night, Mother’s Day breakfasts, Marcellin Business & Community Network breakfast, guest speakers, a Marian Lecture and the opening night of our M2 Theatre Company combined production, Chicago. We have watched the scaffolding rise around our Library building as the refurbishments continue, promising an exciting new space for our students. 

On a different note, an incident occurred last week as two students exited a public bus along Thompsons Road. They were confronted by an individual displaying threatening behaviour and what they perceived to be a kitchen knife. Thankfully, the students acted prudently by avoiding engagement and safely made their way to the College, where they immediately reported the incident. The police were promptly notified and addressed the situation effectively, ensuring no harm came to our students or community members.

This incident, while isolated, reminds us of the growing concerns regarding the presence of knives and other weapons in our communities. It is crucial for our students to remain vigilant and understand the importance of removing themselves from potentially harmful situations safely and swiftly. We urge all parents to discuss with their children the appropriate actions to take if faced with similar circumstances, emphasising the importance of safety and immediate reporting to authorities. We will also continue to have staff present at public transport stations around our school and continue to discuss safety measures in our upcoming year-level assemblies. 

Uniform
As we move closer toward the mid-point of Term 2, it is important that we reiterate our high expectations regarding the wearing of the College uniform and general student presentation. Next week, Mr Gentile and Mr Annett will address all students and remind them of what it is to be a Marcellin College student. I encourage parents to speak to their sons over the weekend and support us in addressing this issue. Shirts need to be tucked in, ties need to be worn correctly and our senior students need to model this across the school. We will be holding students accountable if they do not meet our community expectations. It is important that our students understand that we have high expectations of them both in and out of the classroom. I thank you in anticipation of your support. 

College Captains unite to condemn violence against women
Andrew, Anton and Daniel have penned the following words:

“Every four days, a woman in Australia is violently killed. The Marcellin College community comes together to say, ‘enough is enough’ and that the violence must stop.

Women should not have to live their lives in fear, whether that be at home, on the street, or at a park; They deserve the right to feel safe. 34 women have tragically died due to domestic violence in Australia this year. When it comes to violence against women, the only acceptable figure is zero.

We remember all the women who have been killed in gender-based violence and stand together with a commitment to stop this nation-wide problem. As a community, it is our responsibility to stand up, speak out and speak loudly.”

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

The Holy Spirit embodies the life force of the universe, the power of God, the animating energy present in all things and captured by none. On this Sunday’s feast of Pentecost, let us pray for the coming of the Spirit of God:

Come, O Holy Spirit.
Come as Holy Fire and burn in us,
come as Holy Wind and cleanse us within,
come as Holy Light and lead us in the darkness,
come as Holy Truth and dispel our ignorance,
come as Holy Power and enable our weakness,
come as Holy Life and dwell in us.
Convict us, convert us, consecrate us,
until we are set free from the service of ourselves,
to be your servants to the world.
Amen.

Faith & Mission

Pentecost
This Sunday is the feast of the Pentecost which officially brings an end to the Church’s Easter season and celebrates the beginning of the Church. Pentecost reminds us of the gifts of the Holy Spirit which we received at Baptism and how as members of the Church we are called to use these gifts to bring to fruition the mission of Jesus Christ in our world.

Laudato Si Week
Next week, is Laudato Si Week. The week-long event marks the ninth anniversary of the publication of Pope Francis' groundbreaking encyclical on care for creation. Marcellin College has signed up to be part of The Vatican’s Laudato Si’ Action Platform, which is empowering Catholic institutions, communities, and families to fully implement Laudato Si’. The theme for this year’s Laudato Si’ Week is inspired by the symbol for Season of Creation 2024, “first fruits.” Let us be seeds of hope in our lives and our world, grounded in faith and love.

Staff Formation Day
Marcellin College will host its annual Staff Formation Day on Friday, 24 May. The staff will be involved in workshops run by Paul Harris, Br Michael Green fms and Rebecca Bromhead from various Marist ministries. The day will explore in more detail this year’s Marist theme, First Light – Reveal the Spirit. Staff will explore the story of St Marcellin Champagnat and the Marist story as a way of understanding how the Spirit reveals itself through Marcellin and his charism; through the Marists in the way we live out his charism today, and through each one of us in our local context. 

Winner of the Parent ECSI Survey Respondents
Thank you to those parents who took the time to complete the Enhancing Catholic School Identity Survey last month. The information provided by the College community will assist us in enriching our Catholic Identity within the College.

I am delighted to announce that the winner of the $250 gift voucher was Vanessa Lucantonio. Congratulations Vanessa.

Scott McNulty, Ministry Assistant
On behalf of Geralyn McCarthy, Deputy Principal - Faith & Mission

Student Wellbeing

Attendance Matters
Regular school attendance is crucial for student success. Research shows that students who attend school regularly are more likely to achieve academic success and develop important social and emotional skills. At our school, we encourage all students to aim for at least 90% attendance throughout the school year.

It's important to note that students who attend school less than 90% of the time miss approximately 16 days of instruction, equating to around 80 individual lessons. To ensure our students receive the full benefit of their education, it's vital that we work together to promote regular attendance.

If parents or carers need assistance in improving their child's attendance, we encourage them to reach out to their child's Pastoral and House Leader for support and guidance.

Year 12 Update: Man Cave Session
On Monday, 13 May, our Year 12 students attended their first Man Cave session. The Man Cave's programs are designed to create positive shifts in attitudes and behaviours, challenging gender stereotypes and promoting healthy masculinity principles.

With over 70,000 young men having participated in these immersive workshops, facilitated by diverse male role models, the Man Cave program equips boys with essential emotional and social skills necessary for leading fulfilling lives in their relationships and communities.

Supporting Children and Young People Through Traumatic Events
In today's digital age, exposure to traumatic events can extend far beyond the physical world, reaching children and young people through online platforms. This increased exposure can have profound effects on their mental health and well-being. It is crucial for us as a community to be prepared to support them during such challenging times.

Recognising this need, the eSafety Commissioner has recently released valuable resources tailored to assist children, young people, and their families in navigating distressing content encountered online. These resources offer practical guidance on how to cope with and address violent or disturbing material, empowering individuals to safeguard their mental health in the digital realm.

Proactive measures within the family setting are also essential. Families are encouraged to implement strategies to limit exposure to distressing online content, ensuring a safer online environment for their children. Moreover, having readily accessible resources designed specifically for children and young people can make a significant difference in their ability to process and cope with what they encounter online.

In addition to the resources provided by the eSafety Commissioner, families and educators can turn to their child’s Pastoral or House Leader for support. We also have two College Counsellors who are equipped with excellent knowledge and skills in helping families and students in areas such as grief, trauma, and critical incidents.

By leveraging these resources and working collaboratively as a community, we can create a supportive environment where children and young people feel empowered to navigate traumatic events both online and offline. Together, let’s prioritise the mental well-being of our younger generations and ensure they receive the care and support they need to thrive in today's digital landscape.

Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Learning & Teaching

As we continue to progress through Term 2, a reminder that significant events will soon be upon us.

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

All students undertaking a Unit 3 & 4 sequence are required to complete the GAT (General Achievement Test), including students who are unscored or studying for a Vocational Major certificate. The GAT in 2024 is scheduled for Tuesday, 18 June.

In addition, it will soon be time to select courses and subjects for 2025. Parent Information Nights on our 2025 offerings are being held.

SAVE THE DATE:

• 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.

Getting Ready for Exams – We Have Tutors Available
As I’ve mentioned previously 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.

A reminder that we do have tutors available through our Homework Club on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.

On Tuesday we have a specific English and Humanities tutor, Ms Ruth Taylor, who is available to help any students of all year levels with their homework or to support proofreading and preparation of work, or exam preparation.

On Thursday, Mr Thomas Blasioli, is available for Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics tutoring. The Homework Club is held between 3.30pm and 5pm in our Ardmara Building (A101). All students are welcome.

Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning and Teaching

From our Learning Areas

The Placidus Resource Centre has settled into our temporary accommodation and most of our services are running as they were before the move. We still have a wide selection of books available in the space, with access to the books in storage if they are requested.

Our Year 7 and 8 Reading Classes are still taking place weekly and fortnightly. One of the comments we hear in our conversations with the students is how they don’t have time to read beyond the time they are in the Library due to their other commitments. Experts in this field (such as those found via this link) have shown that reading for as little as ten minutes a day can be beneficial in so many aspects of our lives. One of the things we discuss with the boys is where they can find the time to read in their busy days. Some suggestions are in the car while driving to training or games; during half time when watching a football game on TV; just before dinner or that last ten minutes before turning the light out at night.

Having the support of parents in encouraging reading at home is vital – why not create a bit of family reading time every now and then so that all can share in the benefits of reading.

Rebecca Preedy, Information Services Leader

Australian Schools Cyber Challenge
Last week I was informed that Marcellin College had made it through to the second round of the Australian Schools Cyber Challenge. This is quite an achievement given they were competing against 130 other teams from 70 different schools Australia-wide, this places Marcellin College in the top 10% of schools competing. The team and I will convene this Thursday to discuss the next phase of the competition with our eyes firmly on the very real possibility of a live final-round hackathon in Brisbane. No matter what the result I am very proud of these fine young men who have demonstrated outstanding independent learning and problem-solving skills.

With subject selection on the horizon students in Years 9 and 10 should consider the subjects that our Cyber Challenge team have undertaken at the College. In Year 9 Drone Programming and Game Development in Python and in Year 10 Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security and Digital Warfare are subjects that the Cyber Challenge team have completed over the past few years. Two of the team members are also completing VCE Software Development and were a past competitor of our Marcellin College Digital Defenders Team 2022 placing second nationally.  

Nathan Hutchings, Digital Literacy Leader

Applied Learning and VET
VCE Vocational Major (VM), Victorian Pathways Certificate (VPC) and VET students have been busy this term engaging in their studies, activities and assessments.

Year 11 VCE VM & VPC are partaking in a hospitality unit at William Angliss for four Fridays in May. Tutored by a professional chef the students are settling into the industrial commercial kitchen and creating savoury and sweet food such as sausage rolls and pizzas including bases, quiches, choux pastries and much more. They are enjoying the new environment and experience whilst meeting learning outcomes in Literacy, Numeracy, Work Related Skills (WRS) and Personal Development Skills (PDS).

The students also showed off their entrepreneurial skills this week in numeracy with the guidance of Mr John Diano and Mr Robert Sernio setting up ‘Pop Up Food Stalls’. The students calculated quantities, profit margins and ratios. A total success as they all sold out during recess last Tuesday.

The Year 12 VCE VM & VPC are focussing on their SWL and securing employment when leaving school, employers and potential employers are giving positive reports of the student’s work ethic, shill base and communication ability.

VET students in Sport and Recreation are also keeping busy supporting the community and completing assessments. The Year 11 students supported a local primary school in running their Athletics Carnival, the boys were involved in the organisation, results and encouraging the young children.

The Year 12 students completed a SAC by assessing OHS in two sporting environments, enjoying a day in the city, the students participated in Skill Golf and Rock climbing.

The students are also looking forward to barista training, working with Our Lady of Mercy and Catholic Ladies College in a leadership day and the Year 11 students will commence their second SWL block.

Exciting news and times.

Fran Davey, Applied Learning & VET Leader

Mini Master-Chefs
Last week, six mini master chefs prepared a three-course meal for a group of 16 guests. They started with sweet potato soup, followed by chicken in filo pastry, and concluded with chocolate brownie served with raspberry coulis for dessert. 

Many thanks to Hillary and Ekko for their valuable expertise and congratulations to the students on their excellent culinary skills.

Rosemary Chapple, Student Councellor

Vinnies Winter Sleep-Out
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 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

Hi, my name is Zoe Schulz. I have been a member of the Marcellin College community for just over one year now. My role is a Health and PE teacher, a Science teacher, the Student Leadership Coordinator and the Head of Hockey. What I enjoy most about the College is the array of opportunities available for continual growth, the friendly colleagues and the practical experiences, like science experiments and cooking lessons, that I have the privilege of organising for the students within my subject areas. When I’m not at the College, I love to run, have a hit of tennis, cheer on my footy team, go camping and hiking in the middle of nowhere and spend time with friends, family and my beautiful puppy, Brucie-boy.

Image captions:

• Student Leadership Day with Guest Speaker David Zaharakis
• Coaching and Welcoming some of the New Hockey Players for 2024
• Student Leadership Youth Conference 2024 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
• Supporting the Junior College Captains at the Local ANZAC Day Service in Templestowe

Zoe Schulz, Student Leadership Coordinator

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Harry and I’m in Year 11. What I love most about Marcellin College is the opportunities they have for everyone; from all the subjects they offer to the sporting teams and competitions. When I’m not studying, I enjoy playing sports such as basketball, local footy and school rugby.

In the future, I hope to become a person anyone can talk to or ask for something they need. My time at high school has so far been the best part of my life, I have not only expanded my overall knowledge, but I have met lots of new people and friends.

Harry, Year 11 Redden House

Student Leadership

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 me, the 2024 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 use the following link or 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.

Andrew Ellway, 2024 College Captain

Community News

Business & Community Network Breakfast
We were thrilled to have Kev Perry from Persec Services as the keynote speaker at our Business & Community Network breakfast on Wednesday. Kev delivered an insightful and impactful presentation on emergency and critical incident management, covering both personal and business perspectives.

His expertise and practical advice on navigating emergencies were invaluable, leaving us all better prepared to handle unexpected situations with confidence.

Thank you, Kev, for sharing your knowledge and for your dedication to enhancing our community's resilience.

To get involved in the Network or if you wish to be considered as a guest speaker, please email businessandcommunity@marcellin.vic.edu.au

Mother’s Day Breakfasts
It was another wonderful celebration of our mums and carers at this year’s Mother’s Day Breakfasts last Thursday and Friday. Watch some heartfelt messages from your sons here.

And All That Jazz…
It’s opening night this Friday, 17 May for the 2024 M2 Theatre Company production of Chicago. Support our young artists and those from our sister school, Our Lady of Mercy.

7 shows only and tickets are still available. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.

Grade 6 Trivia Night
On Wednesday night, we welcome our Year 7 2025 cohort and families to a fun-filled trivia night. It was a packed house in St Marcellin’s Hall as families battled it out for the most correct answers. The night wasn’t without controversy when one question asked how many claps are in the beginning of the Friends theme song… Take a listen and see if you guessed right.

Year 7 2026 Enrolments 

Enrolments for Year 7 2026 are now open. For those with sons in Grade 5 wishing to enrol, please do so before the closing date of Friday, 16 August this year. Places are filling up fast. Applications can be submitted online here.

Stay Connected
Marcellin College has an active social media presence including Facebook and Instagram pages. This year our Media Team, led by Year 12 student Anton Bulzomi and 2024 publications Captain Bailey, has launched our very own TikTok account. View some of the behind-the-scenes happenings at the College by visiting our socials.

North East Link Developments

Bulleen Road Closure 25 – 27 May
From 7:30pm on Friday, 24 May until 5:30am on Monday, 27 May, Bulleen Road will be closed between Thompsons Road and the Bulleen Sports Complex in both directions. A detour will be in place via Thompsons and Manningham roads to keep traffic moving. Lane closures along Thompsons Road will be required at times.

Access to Marcellin College and our sports grounds will remain open. However, please note there will be delays anticipated up to 15 minutes during the closure.
 
If you are visiting the College for Saturday Sport on 25 May it is advised that you enter via Sandra Street where possible. See the attached flyer for further details.

Careers News

Year 10 Morrisby Meetings
By the end of May, all Year 10 students will have completed a Morrisby meeting. Students have lifetime access to their profile and may find it helpful for subject selection. The profile provides insights and suggestions for what a student might like to do, and what pathways they could explore. This is a conversation starter. Students are encouraged to continue the conversation with their families and teachers as they transition into Years 11 and 12.

Year 11 VCE and Careers Expo
On Friday, 3 May the Year 11 VCE cohort attended the VCE and Careers Expo. Students engaged with tertiary institutions and industry representatives. We hope students have gained some perspective on the range of pathways available to them.

Year 12 Find Your Future Sessions
The Find Your Future sessions have started on a strong note, with presentations from La Trobe University, Deakin University, and Deakin College. These optional events appear on students’ compass schedules with locations.

Career Activities in Pastoral
All students have completed career activities in Pastoral. We encourage students to revisit their goals regularly and use these as a guide as they plan their career journeys.

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

1st XV Rugby Captain - Christian 
Congratulations to Christian who has been elected the 1st XV Rugby Captain. He is a Marlhes House student under the pastoral guidance of Mr Tenbuuren. Christian attended St Clement of Rome, Bulleen for his primary education before joining Marcellin College. 

In his sporting journey at the College, Christian played rugby starting from Year 7. He made his debut for the 1st team in rugby during Year 10, coming off the bench. His most significant achievements in representing the College include reaching the semi-finals against Scotch College in the VSRU competition and winning the Most Valuable Forward award for rugby.  

Christian's typical week involves rugby training on Mondays and Thursdays after school, with a focus on studying on non-training nights and weekends to manage his schoolwork alongside his sports commitments. 

As the rugby team captain, he looks forward to leading his teammates out each week and developing as players together. His advice to junior players is to stick with it, emphasising that extracurricular sports are more than just a school obligation; they provide opportunities to make lifelong friends and create lasting memories both on and off the field. 

1st Hockey Captain - Daniel 
Daniel, a member of Lavalla House and a former student of St Bernadette's Primary School, has been elected 1^st Hockey Captain for 2024. Daniel debuted for the 1^st Hockey Team in Year 7 and has played every year since. Externally Daniel plays for the Yarra Hockey Club in the senior 1s of the Vic League 2 competition. In summer he has represented the College in cricket every season and made his debut in the 1^st XI this year. 

Balancing his rigorous training schedule with both club and school hockey with academic commitments, Daniel emphasises the importance of creating a routine to manage his time effectively.

As the newly appointed Captain, Daniel looks forward to fostering teamwork, building confidence, and enhancing skills within the team. His advice to the junior players is to engage in various sports to develop both memories and valuable skills.

We wish Daniel well for the season ahead.

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport