The Eagle 7 February 2025

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

There have been a number of celebrations over this past fortnight and I have enjoyed the enthusiasm amongst students and staff as we begin the 2025 academic year. We do so with a deep sense of purpose and a renewed commitment to excellence, faith and community.

A Warm Welcome to Our New Families
A special welcome to our newest Marcellin boys and their families, particularly our Year 7 cohort, who bring with them an infectious energy and enthusiasm. The transition into secondary school is a significant milestone and it has been wonderful to witness the way our new students are already embracing our Marist HEART values of humility, excellence, acceptance, resilience and trust. The bonds of friendship they begin forming now will become a foundation for the future.

At our recent Induction Mass, we reflected on the journey ahead - a journey that will be filled with triumphs and challenges, moments of growth and opportunities for transformation. As a community, we walk this path together, supporting and uplifting one another. To our new families, we are honoured to partner with you in the formation of your sons as they embark on this new chapter.

Year 12 – A Focused and Determined Start
At the other end of their Marcellin College journey, our Year 12 students have begun their final year with a strong sense of focus and determination. They are already demonstrating leadership and commitment as role models for our younger students. Their dedication to their studies and their active participation in College life reflect the values that define us as a Marist community. I encourage them to embrace each challenge with courage and to be 10% braver in every aspect of their learning and personal growth.

Together, we gathered for our High Achievers Assembly, where we welcomed back our Class of 2024 High Achievers. It was inspiring to see these young men return and share their planned journey beyond Marcellin College. Our 2024 Dux, Isaac Thomas, delivered a rousing speech that left a lasting impression on our current Year 12 students, encouraging them to strive for their highest and embrace the challenges ahead. The pride in the room was palpable, as parents beamed with joy and our young graduates stood as a testament to what it means to be a Marcellin College graduate - always part of this community, no matter where life takes them next.

A Positive and United Staff Team
Our dedicated staff spent our first few days laying the groundwork for 2025. They have returned with enthusiasm, ready to inspire and guide our students throughout the year. I appreciate their commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, care, and innovation. We are incredibly fortunate to have such passionate educators who see their work not just as a profession, but as a vocation - to nurture and develop young men who will become leaders of integrity, compassion and wisdom.

Looking Ahead
As we embark on this new academic year, we do so in a world that is ever-changing. With advancements in technology, shifts in global perspectives and the evolving needs of education, we remain steadfast in our mission as we form young men of faith, learning and character. We will continue to embrace opportunities for growth, to foster resilience in the face of challenges and to strengthen our bonds as a faith-filled community.

This year you will hear your boys talk about our new routines and expectations. We expect the very best from our boys and this year we have implemented strategies to ensure that they can "strive for the highest".  

Parents and caregivers, your partnership in this journey is invaluable. Your trust, support and encouragement make all the difference in the lives of your sons. Together, let us create an environment where they can flourish, take risks and strive to be the best versions of themselves.

May this year be one of discovery, achievement and personal excellence for each member of our Marcellin family. Let us move forward with faith, courage, and a commitment to our Marist HEART values.

Virtute ad Altissima!
Yours in faith and partnership,

Marco Di Cesare
Principal

God of all power and love,
we give thanks for your unfailing presence
and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss.
Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire.
Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world:
a people who pray, worship, learn,
break bread, share life, heal neighbours,
bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit.
Wherever and however we gather,
unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission,
that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Faith & Mission

Marist Theme for 2025
I extend a warm welcome to all our families, especially those new to the Marcellin College community in this milestone 75th anniversary year.

Our 2025 Marist theme, “Pilgrims of Hope: Look Beyond,” aligns with the Jubilee Year of Hope proclaimed by Pope Francis. It calls us to embark on a journey of faith, embracing God’s love as the source of our hope. Inspired by St Marcellin Champagnat and Pope Francis’ challenge to "look beyond," this theme encourages us to see with deeper faith, serve with boldness, and trust in God’s presence. It invites us to transform the world through love, courage and compassion—moving forward with faith and resilience, looking beyond present challenges toward God’s promise for the future.

This theme also beautifully reflects our Marist HEART values—Humility, Excellence, Acceptance, Resilience and Trust. Throughout the year, we will challenge our students to "look beyond" themselves, seeking opportunities to serve those in need and live out our call to Christian service.

It also aligns with our Continuous School Improvement Plan, as we focus on increasing student engagement in Faith-in-Action programs. More details will be shared in future editions of The Eagle.

Commencement Mass & High Achievers Assembly
On Tuesday, our College community gathered for the Commencement Mass, celebrated by Fr Chris Monaghan CP. This was followed by the High Achievers’ Assembly, where Fr Chris blessed and commissioned our College Captains, Student Leaders, and our newest Deputy Principal, Mr Phil Kamay, as they take on their leadership roles in 2025.

A special highlight of this Mass was the launch of our new College Hymn, Striving for the Highest, and our College Anthem, With Hearts of Eagles. These songs, composed by Andrew Short, Natalie Carger and Rowan Castle, were inspired by community consultations that led to the development of our Marist HEART values, officially launched in 2024.

Induction Mass
Last night, we gathered at St Patrick’s Cathedral for our Induction Mass, celebrated by Very Rev. Fr Mark Reynolds, Episcopal Vicar for Catholic Schools. This special occasion welcomed all students beginning their journey at Marcellin College, inviting them to become part of our rich tradition. In this milestone 75th anniversary year, our newest students now have the opportunity to build upon the legacy of those who came before them—embracing the Marist spirit that has shaped our College into the vibrant community it is today.

Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission

Staff

Welcome to a new academic year filled with opportunities, challenges and the promise of growth. As we embark on 2025, our College remains steadfast in its focus on strengthening professional expertise by recognising the talents within our community while promoting the individual growth of each staff member.

Key Priorities for the Year:

1. Empowering and Inspiring Our Learners: Our commitment to high-impact teaching strategies and the implementation of consistent, predictable routines will guide staff professional learning throughout the year.
2. Data-Informed Practices: We aim to enhance College practices by leveraging data to support informed decision-making and best practices.
3. Professional Development: We will continue to align our professional learning with the Marcellin High Performing Teacher Framework. Staff will have opportunities to engage in reflective practice, peer observations and leadership development initiatives.

As part of staff professional development in recent weeks, the College engaged two renowned guest speakers:

• Kris Darmody, a coach, facilitator, mediator, and educator, introduced the PARC program—a conflict management framework designed specifically for schools. Kris facilitated a learning program for all school leaders and staff.
• Rachael Robertson, a former Antarctic expedition leader who led the 58th Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition to Davis Station, she shared valuable insights on high-performing teams, the importance of clear expectations, and the value of genuine respect over superficial harmony.

Finally, a new year also brings new faces to our community. We warmly welcome the following staff members:

Best wishes for Term 1.

Phillip Kamay,
Deputy Principal Staff

Learning & Teaching

Welcome back to a new school year! I hope everyone enjoyed a restful and enjoyable break and feels renewed and ready for the year ahead.

Celebrating the High Achievers of the Class of 2024
Earlier this week, we had the privilege of celebrating the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2024 at our High Achievers Assembly. This special event recognised students who attained an ATAR above 90 and those who were the Dux of their subjects, a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence. These results reflect not only their academic talent but also the countless hours of effort, resilience, and determination they demonstrated throughout their years of schooling.

A particular highlight of the assembly was recognising our Dux of 2024, Isaac Thomas, who achieved an exceptional ATAR of 98.45. We extend our sincere thanks to Isaac for returning to speak with our students and offering valuable insights into the habits, mindset, and strategies that contributed to his success. His journey serves as an inspiration for all students striving for excellence in their own studies.

We also congratulate Daniel Evdokimou, who was awarded Outstanding Achievement in the VCE Vocational Major (VM), recognising his dedication and skill in his chosen field.

We are incredibly proud of all our high achievers and commend them for their hard work and determination. Their success is a reflection of their personal commitment, the unwavering support of their families and the guidance of their dedicated teachers. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours and look forward to seeing the impact they will make beyond the school gates.

Assessment and Reporting Policy
In the coming days, I will be sharing an update with families outlining key reminders about our Assessment and Reporting Policy, as well as a refresher on our Homework Policy.

These policies each play a crucial role in supporting student learning through setting routines that develop and reinforce key behaviours, skills and knowledge. Strong assessment and homework practices help students develop organisation and responsibility and to prepare effectively for future challenges.

Please keep an eye out for this important update, via Compass, which will provide further details and guidance.

Ongoing Monitoring of Student Progress
Parents are encouraged to regularly check Compass via the Parent Portal for up-to-date information on their son’s academic progress, including assessment results and teacher feedback.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to a teacher for a conversation. Our first round of parent-teacher conferences are later this term but, you do not have to wait until then to communicate with your child’s teachers.

Homework Club is Back
Homework Club will resume next week, on Tuesday, 11 February.

Homework Club provides students with a valuable opportunity to complete homework and home study tasks in a quiet, structured, and supportive environment and is a great way for students to stay on top of their studies, build strong learning habits, and seek extra support when needed.

Mathematics support is available on both Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, and we will shortly be adding English support too.

Homework Club runs on Tuesday and Thursday between 3.30pm and 5.00pm in Room A101 of our Ardmara building.

All students are welcome!

Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching

Student Wellbeing

As we step into another exciting year at Marcellin College, we warmly welcome back all students, staff, and families. We look forward to a year filled with learning, growth, and opportunities for students to challenge themselves and strive for their highest.

A special welcome goes out to our newest members of the Marcellin community, our Year 7 students! This is an especially significant year as we celebrate our 75th anniversary, making it all the more meaningful to have new students begin their journey with us. It was wonderful to meet so many of our new families, and our Pastoral Leaders thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to connect with parents and carers during the transition into secondary school.

To support student wellbeing and engagement, we have opened our Lecture Theatre and Functions Room during lunch breaks, providing spaces for students to watch live sports or a movie and escape the summer heat. This initiative has been well received, and we encourage students to make use of these areas on hot days throughout the term.

Additionally, we are delighted to welcome staff from Headspace, who have been working closely with our junior students, providing valuable education on mental health and wellbeing. Their presence has been a fantastic addition to our holistic approach to student support, reinforcing the importance of mental health awareness from a young age. I thank Ms Christina Cammarano for her work in creating this opportunity.

Looking ahead, we are excited about our upcoming Year 12 retreats. These experiences offer students the chance to reflect, recharge, and engage in meaningful spiritual growth as they embark on their final year at Marcellin.

We also take this opportunity to remind all parents and carers of the extensive support available through our Wellbeing Team, which includes our Director of Students, House Leaders, and Pastoral Leaders. Furthermore, we have two dedicated counsellors on site: Chris Lang (chris.lang@marcellin.vic.edu.au) and Rosemary Chapple (rosemary.chapple@marcellin.vic.edu.au), who are available to support students as needed.

We look forward to a fantastic year ahead and thank all families for their ongoing support as we continue to foster a learning environment at Marcellin College that reflects the values of our Marist HEART.

Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Head Space Workshop 
On Thursday, 6 February the Year 7 students participated in a workshop facilitated by Head Space, which is Australia's National Youth Mental Health Foundation. The purpose of their visit was to support students in their transition into secondary life by addressing the challenges that students may face during this time, and equipping them with useful strategies to alleviate any potential stress associated with adjusting to change and a new school environment.

This fantastic organisation has supported more than more than 867,000 young Australians since its establishment in 2006 and offers a variety of free resources and services, including for parents and carers. For more information, click here.

Safer Internet Day - Tuesday, 11 February 2025 
Next week, we will acknowledge Safer Internet Day - an initiative created by the Australian Government in conjunction with the eSafety Commissioner.

In Pastoral, we will be reminding students about the importance of:

• creating secure passwords and keeping them private
• reporting online bullying to the eSafety Commissioner
• engaging online with family and friends that they know, and not with usernames/accounts they do not recognise
• ensuring you have permission before uploading pictures and videos with friends

To find useful resources about safe internet use and parental controls, access the eSafety Commissioner here.

Christina Cammarano
Student Wellbeing Program Coordinator

From our Learning Areas

News from the Library
Welcome to 2025, a big year for our Marcellin community’s Placidus Resource Centre Library. My name is Ms Bellotti, and I am the new Library Manager. I feel so privileged and excited to be part of the soon-to-open, newly refurbished library space. It looks magnificent, and it will be a wonderful hub for students to collaborate, study, learn, and explore.

I truly enjoy working with young people and fostering in them a love of reading. Developing the skill of reading for pleasure is crucial for young people to build strong literacy skills, helping them critically evaluate the vast amounts of written material they will encounter in the future.

February is traditionally Library Lovers’ Month, and on 14 February, we celebrate Library Lovers’ Day. Students are encouraged to come into the library, tell us what they love about it, and enjoy a treat. I encourage everyone in our Marcellin community to fall in love with a book this year—it’s still one of the best things you can do for your mental health and wellbeing.

Serena Bellotti, Library Manager

Staff Profile

Hello, my name is Matthew Abdallah.  I have been a member of the Marcellin College community for just over a year as a staff member, although I am very familiar with the community as I spent six years as a proud Marcellin Student. My role is mathematics and physics teacher. 

What I enjoy most about the College is the friendly and supportive culture amongst both students and staff, and the opportunity to inspire students in the field of mathematics.  

When I’m not at the College, I enjoy spending my time in the gym, playing sport such as basketball and volleyball, cooking, hanging out with friends and family, playing the drums and solving Rubik’s cubes.

Matthew Abdallah, Mathematics and Science Teacher

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Marco, and I am the Augustine House Captain here at Marcellin College. I am in Year 12, and what I love most about Marcellin is the relationships made with other boys. Marcellin has provided me with lifelong friendships, while also leading me towards being a better version of myself.

Pastoral groups have always been a key aspect of my Marcellin journey, with the boys becoming a second family to me. Mr Viola, My Pastoral Leader, always loves a good chat in the mornings, often talking about what my mum has told me off about the night before.

When I am not studying, I enjoy going to work at my dad’s business, learning all about plumbing and fixing leaky pipes. I also enjoy playing golf on the weekends with my cousin, even though my furthest drive is 170 meters.

In the future, I hope to be an owner of an architectural firm, designing buildings for commercial use, while also creating innovative designs to better solve issues faced in various communities. I study visual communications, which has created my love of architecture, and I hope to dux the subject this year. My desire for Year 12 is to do the best I can, studying hard to get into my Architecture course at Monash.

Marco, Year 12 - Augustine House Captain

College Administration

Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF)
CSEF is provided by the Victorian Government to assist eligible families to cover the costs of school trips, camps and sporting activities. Families holding a valid means-tested concession card or temporary foster parents may be eligible for CSEF.

CSEF eligibility will be subject to the parent/legal guardian’s concession card being successfully validated with Centrelink on 28 January 2025 and/or 15 April 2025

• Please lodge a CSEF application form at the school.
• CESF payment amount – Secondary School $250.00 per year
• The CSEF program for 2025 closes at the end of term two 2025.

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

College Events

Parents & Friends Mix & Mingle Cocktail Evening
The Marcellin College Parents & Friends Group invite you to relax, indulge and celebrate the start of the 2025 academic year with cocktails, gourmet canapés, live music and dancing—all while building the vibrant community that makes Marcellin College special.

This event on 22 March is exclusively for parents and friends and your ticket includes mouthwatering canapés and a complimentary welcome drink upon arrival. Our bar will also be open throughout the night for you to grab any additional drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

The suggested dress code is casual cocktail, so wear what makes you feel great! Whether it’s your favourite dancing shoes or a laid-back ensemble, bring your confidence and your energy. We’ll be creating a custom playlist for the evening, so when you reserve your ticket, share your go-to unwind song, and we’ll make sure it’s ready to set the mood.

Tickets are now on sale. Book here and prepare for a memorable night of great food, wonderful company, and lasting memories. We can’t wait to see you there! This is a strictly adults-only event. Dress to impress and see you on the night!

Principal Morning Tea
This term Year 8 – 11 parents and carers are invited to join Principal Marco for morning tea in Rivat House. Please come along, have a cuppa and any questions you have for the principal. To register for your year level, please use the links below:

Year 8 – Tuesday, 11 February - https://forms.office.com/r/D2npGxibRe
Year 9 – Thursday, 20 February - https://forms.office.com/r/D2npGxibRe
Year 10 – Thursday, 27 February - https://forms.office.com/r/vcKdknaEZv
Year 11 – Thursday, 13 March - https://forms.office.com/r/6r3x2hmFa5

Marco looks forward to seeing you then.

Year 7 Parents / Carers BBQ
Year 7 2025 Parents & Carers are invited to a twilight social evening on Saturday, 1 March 6pm - 8pm as an opportunity to get together, meet new friends and to officially welcome you to the Marcellin College community.

This is strictly a parents/carers-only event and will be held in our Functions Room overlooking our beautiful grounds.

A BBQ will be provided and cooked by the College Leadership team, along with salads and a welcome drink of your choice (beer, wine and soft drink). Additional drinks will be available to purchase.

We look forward to seeing you there! Bookings are essential using the following link.

Year 12 Parent & Son Breakfast
The College is hosting its annual Year 12 Parent & Son Breakfast to mark the start of their final year at Marcellin College. Now in its third year, you will hear from graduates and parents from the Class of 2024. They will provide insights, tips and practical ways to make 2025 a memorable and successful year.

Two dates:
Tuesday, 4 March 7am - 8:30am
Thursday, 6 March 7am - 8:30am

Attendance is free. Tickets are limited to two per family.
Bookings are essential using the following link.

Community News

75^th Anniversary
This year Marcellin College celebrates its 75^th anniversary. It will be a big year as we look back at the people, places and moments that have shaped our great community. As we look back over these 75 years we also look forward to a future where we can continue to contribute to the tapestry that is Marcellin College. Stay tuned through the year for updates, events and opportunities to celebrate this significant milestone.

Watch this short clip on some of Marcellin College's history.

Open Day 2025
The College is opening its doors for our Open Day on Sunday, 16 March 11am – 2pm. Prospective families will be able to explore our grounds, learn about learning programs and discover what makes us a leader in boys’ education. For more information click here.

Year 7 2027 Enrolments

Enrolments for Year 7 2027 are now open!

Students in Grade 5 are required to enrol before the closing date on Friday, 15 August 2025 to secure a place.

For more information and to apply online click here.

Parents & Friends Group Meeting – Cheese and Wine Night
Join the Parents & Friends Group on Thursday, 13 February from 7pm for a cheese and wine night in Rivat House (entry via Sandra Street). Meet other parents and friends who support the College with a range of activities, including our social evenings and breakfasts.

To confirm your attendance, please email P&F president, Pamela Frost, at parentsandfriends@marcellin.vic.edu.au

Come join us and learn more about what we do!

Second-Hand Uniform Shop
A reminder the Second-Hand Uniform Shop, located behind Marist House, is open the first Friday of every month. The next store opening will be on Friday, 7 March from 9:30am – 12:30pm.

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

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

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

Careers News

Morrisby Meetings For Year 10 Students
In 2024, the current Year 10 cohort completed their Morrisby profiles.

In 2025, each student will meet with a trained Morrisby assessor. This meeting will assist students in building a dynamic career action plan to help guide their choices through senior school and beyond.

One-on-one meetings will commence from 24 February and continue through Term 1. These will be timetabled for each student on Compass. If this conflicts with an assessment task or a student is unwell, these can be rescheduled.

Information will be shared with students during House assemblies this week. Families are encouraged to have a look at their child’s Morrisby Profile to assist them in preparing for this meeting.

Destination Data for the Class of 2024
We are delighted to celebrate the excellent results of the Class of 2024 and share their destinations for 2025. Approximately 18% of students have successfully progressed into the workforce or an apprenticeship. Of those who applied for tertiary study, their destinations are below:

Sport Report

A Thriving Sports Program at Marcellin College
The Marcellin Sports Program continues to be a fantastic way for students to immerse themselves in school life while staying active and engaged. It also fosters strong family involvement, with parents and guardians encouraged to support their sons by attending fixtures and assisting where possible. Through participation, students not only develop physical skills but also build resilience, teamwork, and leadership qualities. We encourage all students to take full advantage of the diverse sporting opportunities available.

Our Vision for Sport
Marcellin College proudly competes in the Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria (AGSV) and the Victorian Schools Rugby Union (VSRU) competitions. As a core element of the ‘Beyond the Classroom’ program, sport at Marcellin promotes excellence, sportsmanship, and holistic development. The program provides a competitive platform for students to represent the College with pride while enhancing their physical, mental, and social well-being. It also complements community sport, reinforcing key learning experiences within the Marcellin environment.

At Marcellin, students of all skill levels have opportunities to represent the College, striving to perform at their best. A reminder to families: if a student participates in a sport at the community level that is also offered at Marcellin, it is a school policy that they represent the College in that sport.

Summer Sport Back in Action
Congratulations to all students and coaches who resumed their summer season last weekend! It was fantastic to see so many families supporting their sons at fixtures. Best wishes to all teams for the remainder of the season.

Swim Squad Dives Into Training
Good luck to our Swim Squad, who returned to training this week! Sessions take place before school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with trial meets scheduled against opposition schools every Friday. The season will culminate with the AGSV Swimming Championships at MSAC.

Winter Sport Preparations Underway
Planning is already in motion for the 2025 Winter Sport Season. As part of this process, all students have been required to complete the Beyond the Classroom Sign-Up Form, which was shared via Compass News. This information is essential for correctly placing students in teams at their respective year levels.

Winter sports available to students include:
✅ Australian Rules
✅ Cross Country
✅ Hockey
✅ Rugby
✅ Soccer

Once students have completed their sign-up, they receive an email confirmation with additional logistical details. Parents are encouraged to check in with their sons to ensure the form has been submitted.

We look forward to another exciting and successful year of Marcellin sport!

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport