The Eagle 21 February 2025

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

As we move further through the term, I continue to be impressed by the engagement and enthusiasm of our students, parents and staff. There is a real sense of community and commitment to excellence in all that we do. This past fortnight has been particularly eventful and I would like to share some key highlights with you.

Year 12 Retreats
I had the privilege of visiting each of our Year 12 Retreats and I appreciated the openness to discussion and sharing by our young men. These retreats provide a unique opportunity for reflection, personal growth and strengthening relationships. It was heartening to see the maturity and sincerity with which our students engaged in these meaningful experiences.

Parents & Friends Meeting
We held our first Parents & Friends Group meeting of the year and I extend my sincere thanks to Pamela Middleton for her leadership in bringing this group together. The enthusiasm and commitment of our parents play a vital role in the life of our College and I look forward to the upcoming Mix and Mingle event. Please see below for more details on this gathering. I hope many of you can make it on the night.

Information Nights
It was wonderful to see so many parents attend our Year 7 Information Night. Our Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing, Mr Rocky Gentile, spoke about daily routines and strategies for supporting your sons learning at home. Parents were able to connect and engage in meaningful dialogue with their sons’ Pastoral Leaders. The positive feedback from parents reaffirms the importance of these evenings in ensuring a smooth transition into secondary school.

Navigating the VCE journey can be both exciting and challenging, especially for families experiencing it for the first time. We had an excellent turnout at our VCE Information Night this week and I appreciate the engagement of our parents as we work together to support our students in achieving their best outcomes. I look forward to seeing you at the Year 12 Parent & Son breakfasts in the coming weeks.

Redden House Mass
This week, we celebrated our first Redden House Mass for the year, a significant moment in our spiritual life as a College. My thanks to Fr Mark Reynolds for leading us in this celebration, reminding us of the importance of faith and community in our daily lives. House Masses with occur once a term in addition to our regular liturgical gatherings throughout the year.

Marist Association Meeting
Our first Marist Association meeting of the year took place this week, bringing together those who share in the Marist mission and charism. These gatherings provide a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our shared values and strengthen our commitment to the Marist way of life.

Meet the Principal Morning Teas
I would like to express my gratitude to the parents who have attended our Principal Morning Teas. These informal gatherings provide a valuable opportunity for conversation and connection, allowing us to share insights into College life and listen to the thoughts and experiences of our parent community. Details for remaining year levels can be found below. I look forward to seeing you then.

Oval Lighting
It has been exciting to watch the installation of new light towers on our ovals, a development that will greatly enhance our facilities and sporting opportunities. We now eagerly await their connection to the power grid—fingers crossed that our supplier can complete this work swiftly! I look forward to flicking the switch on our first night match in the near future! Watch this space.

Library Refurbishment Nears Completion
Our newly refurbished library is almost complete and it is looking fantastic! We now await the delivery of furniture and the final inspection before we receive our Certificate of Occupancy. This new space will serve as a vibrant hub for learning and collaboration and we are looking forward to its official opening.

New Routines and Our Approach to Learning and Wellbeing
As the school year progresses, we continue to embed our new routines and refine our approach to Learning and Teaching and Wellbeing. These initiatives are designed to support every student in achieving their potential while fostering a strong sense of community and personal responsibility. I am grateful for the commitment of our staff, students, and families in embracing these changes and making our College a place where all can thrive.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. I look forward to another wonderful fortnight ahead.

God bless.

Marco Di Cesare
Principal

A Blessing for Presence by John O’Donohue

May you awaken to the mystery of being here
And enter the quiet immensity of your own presence.
May you have joy and peace in the temple of your senses.
May you receive great encouragement when new frontiers beckon.
May you respond to the call of your gift
And find the courage to follow its path.
May the flame of anger free you from falsity.
May warmth of heart keep your presence aflame and anxiety never linger about you.
May your outer dignity mirror an inner dignity of soul.
May you take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention.
May you be consoled in the secret symmetry of your soul.
May you experience each day as a sacred gift, Woven around the heart of wonder.

Amen.

Faith & Mission

Walking the Journey: Year 12 Retreats & Game Changers Leadership Day

In keeping with our 2025 Marist Theme, Pilgrims of Hope, the journey of faith and self-discovery took centre stage in the past week at Marcellin College, as our Year 12 students and Game Changers engaged in two transformative experiences that deepened their sense of purpose, service and community.

Year 12 Retreats: Walking the Road to Emmaus
The Year 12 Retreat, inspired by the Gospel story of the Road to Emmaus, invited students to pause, reflect and listen to the voice of God in their lives. Through personal storytelling, small group discussions, and moments of prayer, students explored their own life journeys—their struggles, hopes and faith. The retreat provided a space to encounter Christ in one another, fostering a sense of belonging and renewed purpose as they approach their final year of school.

Students were invited to reflect on the importance of remaining hope-filled even during life's challenges and on the importance of families, friends and faith that can support them during their life journey. The people we meet along our journey play a significant role, often making a lasting impact and imparting invaluable life lessons.

Game Changers: Servant Leadership in Action
Our Game Changers Servant Leadership Day, held yesterday, also challenged students to embrace their role as "Pilgrims of Hope", drawing from the Marist theme, Look Beyond. Facilitated by the Game Changer mentors, with a guest presenter in the middle of the day, Br. Tony Leon, students reflected on what it means to lead through service, recognising that true leadership is found in humility and a willingness to uplift others. A symbolic pilgrimage across the College prompted them to consider their own journey—who walks with them, what obstacles they face and how they can be a source of hope in their communities.

These two experiences remind us that faith is a journey, not a destination. As our students continue walking their paths, may they always strive to be hope-filled and to "look beyond", seeing Christ in others and bringing His love into the world.

2025 Cambodia Mission Immersion Trip
Last year, we proudly resumed our long-standing tradition of offering an overseas Mission Immersion experience in Cambodia for Year 11 students. Those who participated in last year’s trip consistently described it as a life-changing experience, providing them with the opportunity to engage with a different culture, take part in meaningful service projects and reflect on how they can contribute to positive change in the world.

I am delighted to announce that we will once again be organising a 10-day immersion experience to Cambodia in partnership with the Catholic Mission. The trip’s primary focus is to appreciate the culture and heritage of the Khmer people and to connect with the Marist La Valla School, where students will engage in Christian service activities and build relationships with Cambodian Marist students.

Upcoming Information Sessions for Year 11 Students and Parents regarding the Cambodia Mission Immersion

Parent Information Night – Thursday, 27 February, at 7pm in the Functions Room for parents and students who would like to find out more about the trip.

If you are interested in attending, please email me at geralyn.mccarthy@marcellin.vic.edu.au to express your interest.

More details, including dates, costs, and how to register your attendance at the Parent Information evening can be found in the attached flyer.

Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission 

Learning & Teaching

The Importance of Being Prepared: Ensuring Your Son Has the Necessary Resources

As we settle into the school year, it is essential that all students have the required resources for their subjects. Having the right materials not only supports effective learning but also ensures that students can engage fully in their lessons without unnecessary disruptions.

A well-equipped student is a prepared student. Resources such as textbooks, stationery and digital tools allow students to complete tasks efficiently, participate in discussions, and make the most of their classroom experiences. Without these, valuable learning time can be lost and students may find themselves falling behind.

One key resource that requires parental action is Edrolo, an invaluable online learning platform that supports students in various subjects. Many teachers incorporate Edrolo into their lessons and homework tasks, making it a critical component of student success. However, access to Edrolo requires a payment, which must be made online by parents.

I kindly remind all parents to sit with their sons and ensure the necessary payment for Edrolo is completed as soon as possible. This will guarantee uninterrupted access to the platform and allow students to take full advantage of its benefits.

If you need guidance on how to make the payment or access Edrolo, you may find the link below useful:
Paying for your child's resources via the Payment Portal

Your support in ensuring your son has everything he needs for a successful year of learning is greatly appreciated.

Setting Strong Learning Foundations

Late last week, our Year 7 students attended a workshop with a team from Elevate Education. This program forms part of our orientation program for students and was designed to help them establish strong routines as they transition into secondary school.

Students focused on developing dynamic reading skills, effective note-taking techniques, and conceptual learning strategies such as mind mapping. This workshop provided them with valuable tools to enhance their study habits and set them up for success.

The Elevate team will be back onsite next month, as we start to prepare our Year 10 and Year 11 students for making effective use of homework and home study time. This workshop will hopefully set our students up well for their first exams at mid-year. Students will be exploring how to use the class outlines to frame study; structuring and reviewing organised notes; conceptual learning techniques and utilising practice exam papers.

We are also exploring some subject-based workshops for students in Units 3&4 studies. I encourage students and families to look out for opportunities to start their study preparation, even at this time in the year. It’s never too early!

Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching

Student Wellbeing

The Power of Classroom Routines: Setting Students Up for Success
At Marcellin College, our teachers are working diligently to establish effective classroom routines that foster a structured, engaging, and productive learning environment. Research consistently highlights the benefits of well-structured routines, not only in the classroom but also in life. These routines provide students with stability, discipline and essential skills that support their academic and personal growth.

Why Are Routines Important?
According to Bennett (2020), “routines give students certainty about what is expected in the classroom by providing consistency, predictability and structure.” In other words, routines help students develop positive habits that require minimal effort but yield long-term benefits. Routines are “moments that matter,” as they shape performance, learning, and leadership.

For students, stable routines are associated with:

• Positive self-esteem and optimism
• Improved social skills
• Reduced problem behaviors
• Academic achievement
• School readiness (David et al. 2015)

How Do We Develop Classroom Routines?
At school, we know that the key to lasting change is small, consistent steps. Stanford psychologist B.J. Fogg explains that lasting behavioural change happens through:

1. Having an epiphany
2. Changing the environment
3. Taking small, consistent steps

In the classroom, this means introducing structured habits that reinforce discipline, organisation, and focus. Some key routines our teachers are embedding include:

• Beginning and ending each lesson with a structured start to ensure students are “ready to learn”
• Ensuring that students sit in configurations that helps them learn best in each class.
• Encouraging organisation, such as packing bags the night before and taking care of uniforms
• Establishing clear and high expectations for participation, collaboration and respectful interactions

Building Motivation and Success
Developing routines is about more than just structure—it’s about fostering motivation and discipline. Author Daniel Pink highlights that motivation is driven by purpose, mastery and autonomy. In the classroom, this means giving students the opportunity to develop independence while reinforcing habits that build success. Habits formed in adolescence shape behaviours in adulthood. By reinforcing routines, we are equipping students with the tools they need to navigate school, friendships and future careers with confidence and self-discipline.

What Can Families Do at Home?
Building routines doesn’t stop at school. Families play a key role in reinforcing these habits. Here are some simple ways to help students maintain structure at home:

• Encourage responsibility by giving them daily tasks (e.g., making their bed, organising school supplies)
• Help them set goals and break them into manageable steps
• Ensure they get enough sleep—rested minds are more focused and resilient
• Create a space for open conversations about challenges and successes

Moving Forward
Our teachers will continue to work closely with students to develop strong routines that lead to success. These routines not only support academic achievement but also help students develop lifelong skills that will serve them beyond the classroom.

References:

1. David, KB, LeBlanc, M M & Self-Brown, S 2015, ‘Violence exposure in young children: child-oriented routines as a protective factor for school readiness’, Journal of Family Violence, vol. 30, pp. 303–14.
2. Bennett, T. (2020). Running The Room: the teacher’s guide to behaviour. John Catt.
3. Fogg, B. J. (2020). Tiny habits: The small changes that change everything. Harvest.
4. Pink, D. H. (2011). Drive: The surprising truth about what motivates us. penguin.

Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

From our Learning Areas

Congratulations Jack Mokadsi (Class of 2024)!
For being selected to perform his solo dance composition at the VCE Season of Excellence, Top Class! See Jack's performance at the Melbourne Recital Centre, on 25 February at 2 pm! Please show your support by attending if you can. Tickets are available here.

Marina Sipos, Learning Leader - The Arts

The Power of Languages

Hi, my name is Massimo, and during my time at Marcellin College, I have had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the impact that languages can have on us and how they can open new doors. We are extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to study Italian and Chinese at the College—languages that hold incredible historical, cultural and global significance. I have studied Italian throughout my time here, and I cannot express enough how much it has given back to me—not only by deepening my appreciation for the language itself but also by broadening my understanding of the culture, perspectives and ways of thinking that come with it.

At the College, we have many opportunities not only to learn languages but also to practice and immerse ourselves in the amazing cultures associated with them. Excursions, overseas trips, tours and events such as Globalisation Week allow us to engage with these languages in meaningful ways. Having had the chance to travel with both my family and the school, I can tell you just how much I valued my experience travelling with the school. Moments like ordering food or speaking to a local in a different language truly deepen your appreciation for a language and show that it is so much more than just a means of communication.

Learning a second language is not just about speaking—it strengthens your brain in ways we do not even realise, improving cognitive function, memory, creativity, and our connection to the world around us. Our school’s language programs offer an opportunity to grow both mentally and personally and I encourage you to give it a go—you never know where it might take you!

Massimo Vargetto, Languages Captain

Staff Profile

Hello, my name is Nicole Webster. I have been a member of the Marcellin College community for one month after returning from extended maturity leave. My role is Teacher and Student Leadership Coordinator. What I enjoy most about the College is the community feeling. When I’m not at the College, I am a mum to three girls, reading, running and on the beach.

Student Wellbeing is centre to the heart values of Marcellin College. It is my vision, as Student Leadership Coordinator, is to engage students across all year levels to be the best they can be. Through various external and internal initiatives, in our Student Leadership Development Program, we aim to develop students' understanding of leadership. Our vision is to establish leadership skill sets that students can use at our school, in our community and in their working lives.

Nicole Webster, Teacher & Student Leadership Coordinator

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Hayden, and I’m a Year 12 student here at Marcellin College. I’m currently studying the Unit 3&4 subjects of Physical Education, General Mathematics, Business Management, Sport and Recreation and English. My goal for Year 12 is to achieve an ATAR, which will enable me to pursue my dream course in Sports and Business Management at Deakin Uni.

What I love most about Marcellin College is the welcoming community and the sporting program, which I have been heavily involved in since I started at the College in 2020. I truly recommend that those new to the College get involved in it.

I thoroughly enjoyed the year 2024 at Marcellin College, as I commenced my last season of summer sport in the First XI Cricket Program being named Captain. I look forward to the second half of the season to try and achieve an AGSV premiership. I currently am enjoying the start of Year 12 and am looking forward to the challenges that await for the year of 2025.

Hayden, 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 or for more information about the CSEF click here.

Canteen Portal

Have you registered on the new canteen portal?
A reminder to all students and families to register for the new Canteen Portal to enjoy a faster, more convenient way to order. Please follow the attached instructions to set up your account and ensure you’re ready to place orders with ease.

Register today to avoid missing out!

College Events

Parents & Friends Mix & Mingle Cocktail Evening
Kick off the 2025 school year in style with an unforgettable evening of cocktails, gourmet canapés, live music and dancing! The Marcellin College Parents & Friends Group invites you to mix and mingle with fellow parents in a night designed for fun, laughter and community.

Date: Saturday, 22 March 7pm to late
Your ticket includes delicious canapés and a complimentary welcome drink on arrival, plus our bar will be open all night with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase.

Whether you rock your favourite dancing shoes or a relaxed-chic look, wear what makes you feel amazing!
When booking your ticket, share your ultimate feel-good song and we’ll add it to the night’s custom playlist!

Tickets are on sale now. Get ready for a night of great food, wonderful company and unforgettable memories. Strictly an adults-only event.

Volunteer Information Evening
At Marcellin College, our volunteers are the heart of our community, creating strong connections between families students, and the College. Their support plays a vital role in enriching the experience of our young men.

Want to be part of this tradition? Join us on Monday, 24 February at 7 pm in the Hermitage Atrium (session runs no longer than an hour) to learn more about volunteering opportunities and how you can get involved in 2025 and beyond.

Register your attendance here.

Principal Morning Tea
Thank you to those who have already attended this year’s Principal Morning Teas. Please come along, have a cuppa and any questions you have for Marco. To register for the remaining year levels, please use the links below:

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
Join us for a relaxed and social twilight gathering as we officially welcome you to the Marcellin College community!

Date: Saturday, 1 March, 6– 8pm
Where: Marcellin College Functions Room overlooking our stunning grounds

This parents and carers-only event is the perfect chance to meet fellow families, make new connections, and kickstart this exciting journey together.

Our College Leadership Team will be on the tongs, serving up a classic Aussie BBQ, complete with fresh salads. Enjoy a complimentary welcome drink (beer, wine, or soft drink) on arrival, with additional drinks available for purchase.

Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to mingle, unwind and toast to the start of Year 7!

We can’t wait to see you there!
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. Avoid disappointment and book now. Bookings will close when capacity has been reached. 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
Join us on Sunday, 16 March, from 11 am to 2 pm as we open our doors to prospective families! Explore our beautiful grounds, discover our dynamic learning programs, and see firsthand what makes Marcellin a leader in boys’ education.

https://www.marcellin.vic.edu.au/news/college-open-day

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 9:30 am – 12:30 pm.

Good quality and clean second-hand uniform donations are happily accepted.

Kick Off Your Footy Journey with Doncaster Junior Football Club
Come and join us at one of Manningham's Award Winning Sporting Community Clubs - the Doncaster Junior Football Club. 

Simply register at https://doncasterjfc.com or scan the QR code which can be found in the flyer below.

Careers News

Year 12 meetings
This week, we have commenced pastoral meetings with all year 12 students. We strongly encourage all students to have a longer one-on-one follow-up to plan their pathways.

Please use these links to book a meeting with Kevin Kelly or  Lara Ingram.

Key resources for senior students
Students are encouraged to explore the information on the Marcellin Careers website. Under the ‘Senior School’ tab, students can find resources regarding course information, subject planning and general information about the VCE. Under the ‘Post-school options’ tab, students can find a lot of helpful information about university, TAFE, work, apprenticeship/ traineeship and gap year options. Information about open days is also available in this section.

We also suggest families check out the Matrices resource, which contains information about further study options.

All students from years 10-12 have access to Morrisby. Students can explore a range of pathway options by logging into their Morrisby profiles and exploring the ‘My Choices’ tab.

Morrisby Year 10
In the coming weeks, each Year 10 student will meet one-on-one with one of the careers team.

Prior to this meeting, students should log in to Morrisby and identify any careers and subjects of interest. We encourage students to attend with some questions about their future options.

Kevin Kelly & Lara Ingram, Careers & Further Education

Sport Report

Men’s Health Round
It's time to make your health a priority. What can you do to support yourself and your loved ones?

The Sport Program at Marcellin College prides itself on fostering an environment that promotes sportsmanship while developing the physical, mental, and social skills of all our boys. This weekend, all 1st teams will take the next step in raising awareness and making an impact on men’s health within our community. Sport can be a powerful platform to educate the broader community, and this weekend, we aim to highlight the importance of men's health—an issue that the Sport and Health & Physical Education departments have championed for many years.

All boys representing Marcellin in 1st Basketball, 1st XI Cricket, Open Squash, 1st Tennis, and 1st Volleyball will wear light blue socks to spark conversations among players, officials, and spectators. Additionally, the 1st XI cricketers will don light blue baggies.

Our goal is to encourage men to take better care of their health by making simple behavioural changes. We want our students to educate the older men in their lives to:

•       Overcome the fear of visiting their GP and schedule regular check-ups.
•       Prioritise physical activity.
•       Eat healthily and manage portion sizes.
•       Quit smoking.
•       Reduce alcohol intake.
•       Stay connected by reaching out to their mates.

Change is always challenging, but it becomes easier with support. We encourage sons, fathers, uncles, grandfathers, wives, sisters, grandmothers, and daughters to help the men in their lives prioritise their health.

Inter-House Swimming Carnival – Friday, 7 March
Marcellin College’s annual Inter-House Swimming Carnival will take place on Friday, 7 March at Boroondara Sports Complex. This much-loved event fosters school spirit and House pride, with students participating in various activities throughout the day.

The morning session (9:00 am – 12:00 pm) is for Years 10-12, who can travel directly to the venue or take a bus from Marcellin at 8:30 am. Senior students can leave from the venue or take a bus to Heidelberg Train Station.

The afternoon session (12:00 pm – 3:15 pm) is for Years 7-9, who will attend wellbeing sessions at school in the morning before heading to the carnival. They will return to Marcellin by bus and be dismissed at 3:10 pm.

Students are required to wear their HPE uniform, bring sunscreen, a hat, a water bottle, and lunch, and wear bathers underneath their uniform to minimise changing time. No food or drinks will be available for purchase.

In case of wet weather, a regular school day will proceed, with notifications sent via Compass.

Full details and parental consent requirements will be requested via the Compass event. This information will be sent to parents in the coming days.

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport