The Eagle 1 August 2025

Principal's Report

Dear Members of the Marcellin College Community,

Welcome to Term 3 at Marcellin College.

Despite the cold weather sweeping across Melbourne, our College has been buzzing with warmth and energy this week as we gathered to celebrate student achievement at our Mid-Year Awards Assembly. These occasions are not only a chance to honour excellence but to remind ourselves of the deeper purpose of education: to form young men of character and heart.

In my speech at the assembly, I spoke about the importance of striving not just for results, but for growth, courage and vision. I reminded our students that the world does not need louder, stronger or smarter men alone - it needs better men. Men who choose humility over arrogance, excellence over apathy and trust over suspicion. These are the values that guide us at Marcellin College, our Marist HEART values, and they were on full display this week.

We also spoke about being “10% braver,” a theme that continues to shape our culture this year. Courage isn’t always bold and loud. Sometimes it’s quiet, consistent and deeply personal, like showing up with your best effort, standing up for someone else or being the first to say sorry. As we look to the second half of the year, we continue to encourage our boys to see differently, to act with compassion and to strive for the highest in all they do.

In support of our students’ academic and personal development, we recently held our Subject Selection and Careers EXPO for students and families making important subject and pathway decisions for 2026. These evenings provide valuable guidance and insights to help our young men navigate the options ahead with clarity and confidence. We also welcomed prospective families to our Year 7 2027 Information Night earlier this week – a wonderful opportunity to share the Marcellin story and introduce the Marist HEART of our College to those considering joining our community.

75 Stories for 75 Years
This term also marks the arrival of our 75th anniversary commemorative book, 75 Years, 75 Stories. It is a beautifully curated reflection on our rich Marcellin history, filled with heartfelt memories and milestones. Many parents have already expressed interest and copies are now available. If you would like to purchase one, please contact Mr Richard Liistro at the College for further information. Details can also be found further below.

Building Progress and Looking Ahead
You may notice that the quadrangle looks a little bare at present - the old bridge has been removed as part of our building upgrades and we are preparing for the exciting construction of our new Gallery Flyover. These works are part of our broader commitment to providing outstanding facilities for current and future generations of Marcellin College students.

Sporting Success
Our AGSV 1st Soccer Team, under the leadership of Mr Jeremy Doolan, has shown outstanding effort and commitment this season. As they head into this afternoon’s finals, we commend their resilience, teamwork and passion. Good luck, gentlemen - we are proud of you!

Meanwhile, our Cross Country team is charging into their final race of the season with confidence. Marcellin is on track to retain the AGSV Cross Country title for the 25th consecutive year - an extraordinary achievement that reflects not only the talent of our students but the dedication of Mr John Meagher and Mr Trent Carson. Thank you both for the countless hours of training and mentoring you have provided.

Looking Forward
In the weeks ahead, we will share further updates regarding 2026 planning, including important communications about College fees and future directions. As always, we remain committed to providing a learning environment where every student is known, valued, and supported to reach their potential.

Thank you for your ongoing support. We look forward to a term of continued growth, renewed purpose, and shared success.

God Bless,

Marco Di Cesare
Principal

A Prayer for Peace
God of all nations,
In a world marked by conflict, unrest, and division,
we pray for peace – in our hearts, in our homes, and among all peoples.
May your Spirit guide world leaders to choose dialogue over violence,
compassion over fear, and justice over oppression.
Teach us to be instruments of your peace, courageous in love and faithful in hope.
May we never underestimate the power of kindness or the difference one life can make.
We ask this in the name of Jesus, Prince of Peace.
Amen.

Faith & Mission

Year 8 Reflection Day: A Call to Justice and Compassion
On Thursday and Friday this week, Year 8 students participated in their annual Reflection Day, a formative experience that invited them to consider the powerful impact they can have on the world and the lives of others. The day was facilitated by the Youth Mission Team (YMT), a dynamic group of young Catholic leaders who have been ministering to students across Australia for more than 35 years.

YMT’s program centred on the theme of Social Justice and challenged students to see beyond themselves – to recognise the dignity of every person, regardless of background, ability or status. Through engaging presentations, small group discussions, personal sharing and reflective activities, students were encouraged to connect with their faith in a personal and meaningful way.

Reflection Day highlighted Jesus as a model of justice and compassion – someone who consistently stood with the poor, the outcast and the rejected. Students were reminded that to live out an authentic Christian faith means to act with empathy, courage and a commitment to all people, especially the vulnerable.

Importantly, the program helped students to see that they are not too young to make a difference. By nurturing a personal relationship with Jesus, they come to understand that their gifts and actions can be a powerful response to the needs of others.

We thank the Youth Mission Team for their energy, witness and partnership in supporting the faith development of our students. Their presence enriched the day and complemented the broader mission of Marcellin College to form young men of faith, service and compassion. Thank you also to our dedicated Year 8 Religious Education teachers who also participated in the day.

Geralyn McCarthy
Deputy Principal Faith & Mission

Wellbeing

The Power of the Pen and the Page: Why Handwriting and Paper-Based Reading Still Matter

In our increasingly digital world, there’s growing evidence that traditional tools like pens and printed books still hold powerful educational value. Two recent research studies highlight how handwriting and reading on paper both play critical roles in supporting deeper learning and concentration.

Handwriting Fuels Brain Development
A study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology used EEG brain scans to examine how handwriting compares to typing. It found that handwriting activates more regions of the brain, especially those involved in memory, focus and learning.

Why? Writing by hand requires controlled, fine motor movements that stimulate a broader network of cognitive processes. This makes handwriting especially valuable for students when taking notes, brainstorming or learning new content. 
Takeaway: Handwriting helps the brain process and retain information more deeply than typing alone.

Deep Reading Builds Deep Thinkers
Another recent study, Literary Reading on Paper and Screens (Hakemulder & Mangen, 2024), explored how the medium we use for reading, screens versus paper, affects the depth and meaning of our reading experiences. While reading on screens doesn’t always reduce comprehension, the habit of screen-based skimming (think social media or news snippets) was linked to more superficial engagement. In contrast, those who regularly read longer texts on paper reported stronger emotional connection, focus and insight.

The concern? Frequent digital reading may weaken students' capacity and motivation for deep, reflective reading. This has serious implications for learning, critical thinking, empathy and even civic awareness.

The Bigger Picture: Concentration Matters
We know that concentration, the ability to stay mentally focused, is a foundation for success in all areas of life, from schoolwork to relationships to long-term goals. A lack of it is also a large contributor to off-task and disruptive behaviour. Fortunately, concentration isn’t fixed. It can be developed through regular habits that challenge the brain to slow down and focus, such as handwriting and sustained reading. As a school community, we need to collectively work with our young people to nurture these habits. In an age of constant distraction, helping students improve their focus and attention is not just an academic goal; it’s a life skill.

Tips for Parents: Supporting Focus and Deep Learning at Home

• Encourage handwriting: Even simple things like handwritten homework planners, study notes or journaling can improve memory and focus.
• Foster long-form reading: Keep physical books at home and encourage reading in quiet, screen-free spaces.
• Model good habits: Let your child see you reading books or writing by hand. Kids mimic what they observe.
• Limit screen-scrolling: Balance screen time with print time. Reading social media or headlines shouldn’t replace deeper engagement with literature.
• Talk about books: Conversations about stories help build comprehension and reflection.
• Read books together: Read the same book as your son and talk about it with them!

Final Thought
As one of the researchers put it, “how we read shapes how deeply we think.” In fast-paced digital environments, traditional practices like handwriting and paper-based reading help slow us down in the best possible way, encouraging thoughtful, sustained learning. Building concentration and focus may also result in happier young people who behave better, feel overwhelmed less often and are more able to access the learning on offer!

As a College, we remain committed to nurturing these skills alongside modern technologies to help students become focused, reflective and capable learners.

References
Van der Weel, F. R., & Van der Meer, A. L. H. (2023). Handwriting but not typewriting leads to widespread brain connectivity: A high-density EEG study with implications for the classroom. Frontiers in Psychology, 14. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1094852 
Hakemulder, J., & Mangen, A. (2024). Literary reading on paper and screens: Associations between reading habits and preferences and experiencing meaningfulness. Journal of Research in Reading, Advance Online Publication. https://doi.org/10.1111/1467-9817.1241
Rueda, M. R., Posner, M. I., & Rothbart, M. K. (2005). The development of executive attention: Contributions to the emergence of self-regulation. Developmental Neuropsychology, 28(2), 573–594. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15326942dn2802_2

Rocky Gentile
Deputy Principal Student Wellbeing

Learning & Teaching

Celebrating Success at Our Mid-Year Awards Assembly
As we return for Semester 2, I extend a warm welcome back to all our students and families. I hope the break provided time to recharge and reconnect and that the new term has started with a sense of energy and purpose. It’s also the perfect time to reflect on the achievements of Semester 1 — and to shine a spotlight on those students who have gone above and beyond in their learning.

Mid-Year Awards Assembly
On Tuesday, 29 July, we proudly held our Mid-Year Awards Assembly, a special moment in the College calendar where we celebrate student excellence, dedication and growth. It was a wonderful occasion for our whole community to come together and acknowledge those who strive for the highest — whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, in the performing arts or through acts of quiet perseverance.

Students across all year levels were nominated by their teachers for Academic Merit (Years 7–11) and Academic Endeavour (Years 7–12), recognising not only high achievement, but also effort, improvement and commitment to learning. From these nominations, the top students in each year level received acknowledgement from our Principal, Mr Di Cesare, through a Principal’s Award for Academic Achievement.

While more than 100 students were formally acknowledged at the assembly, many more received commendations from their teachers and their achievements are equally worth celebrating. All students who were recognised will now receive commendation certificates, recording their acknowledgements from their various class teachers.

Congratulations to all students on your Semester 1 achievements – we are incredibly proud of your efforts and look forward to seeing what you will accomplish in the months ahead.

Homework Club is Back for Semester 2!
A reminder that Homework Club has resumed and runs every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon in the Library from 3:30pm – 5pm. We are fortunate to have strong academic support in place again this term, particularly in mathematics, which is offered on both days.

Alongside Ms Foster (Tuesdays) and Ms Farley (Thursdays), we welcome back our dedicated tutors and past students:

• Mr Julian Baldacchino (Tuesdays)
• Mr Thomas Blasioli (Thursdays)
• Mr Max Barro, who is available on both days.

Homework Club is a great way for students to receive extra help, revise concepts or simply establish a regular study routine in a quiet and supportive environment. All students are welcome — come along and make the most of it!

Suzanne Farley
Deputy Principal Learning & Teaching

News from Our Learning Leaders

Skateboard Deck Art Competition

NGV International have offered the College TWO free tickets to the Teens Art Party event, which will be held on Saturday, 9 August from 6 - 9pm (event details below). To win these tickets, students will need to design an Impressionist landscape on a skateboard deck using paint or markers! If your son is interested and is free on Saturday, 9 August to attend the event at the NGV International, please ask him to see Ms Sipos to collect a skateboard deck. Skateboard designs are due Wednesday, 6 August.

Tickets include the following perks, and further information can be found here. 

• Entry to the newly opened French Impressionism exhibition at the NGV International
• Dance to DJ sets by Rainbow Chan
• Make friends at Mes Amis French Friendship sessions with Alliance Française de Melbourne
• Get creative and make wearable art inspired by flamboyant French fashion with artist Louise Meuwissen

Marina Sipos, The Arts Learning Leader

Staff Profile

Hello, my name is Trent Carlson. I have been a member of the Marcellin College community for 18 years now in various capacities. First as a student between 2001 - 2006, then as a member of the grounds and maintenance departments 2007 - 2011 and now as a staff member since 2018. I spent my first seven years as the Marlhes House Leader, supporting student wellbeing and have moved into a new role this year as the Professional Learning Leader, which has provided me the opportunity to support staff with their growth and development. I have been lucky enough to share my passion of sport with students through the Beyond the Classroom program.

Currently, I am the Teacher In Charge of Cross Country and previously assisted with the 1^st XVIII Football program. These coaching experiences allow for strong relationships to be developed with students outside the classroom and away from the textbooks, whilst sharing a common interest with students.

What I enjoy most about the College is the strong connections and relationships. Staff and students alike have a genuine care for each other and foster a strong sense of belonging to our community.  Furthermore, it is a privilege to watch students come in at Year 7 and grow into the young men they become, knowing that we as a college have played a small part in shaping them as individuals along their journey is so rewarding.

When I’m not at the College, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. Being physically active is a priority for my own health and wellbeing, whether that be running, swimming or riding and completing triathlons when I get the chance. I love spending time with my beautiful wife Sam (who also works at the College), enjoying good food and time down on the Mornington Peninsula, as well as playing with my 19-month old daughter Remi around the house and at the many local parks in our area. We are thrilled to be growing our family in December, when we will be welcoming another little girl into the Carlson family, so life is about to get a whole lot busier.

Trent Carlson, Professional Learning Leader

Student Profile

Hi, my name is Luca, and I’m a Year 12 student here at Marcellin College. I’m currently studying Unit 3&4 subjects of Business Management, Further Mathematics, Accounting, Sport and Recreation and English. My goal for Year 12 is to stay focused, finish strong and achieve an ATAR that gives me the chance to pursue what I’m passionate about.

What I love most about Marcellin is the tight-knit community and the great friendships I’ve built over the years. The support from both teachers and mates has made a real difference, and I’ve always felt encouraged to get involved in all areas of school life.

Since starting at the College, I’ve been lucky to be involved in a range of sports, including cricket, footy and basketball. This year, I’m proud to be part of the 1st XVIII Football program and to be serving as Kenny House Captain, a role that’s helped me grow as a leader and stay connected to the wider school community.

In the future, I’d love to become a sports manager or even run my own business. Right now, I’m enjoying Year 12, taking on new challenges and making the most of every moment as my final year at Marcellin continues.

Luca, Year 12 student and Kenny House Captain

College Events

Past and Present Mums Luncheon
Our annual Past and Present Mums’ Mass and Luncheon will take place on Thursday, 14 August in our newly renovated Champagnat Chapel and Functions Room.

Originally started by the Ladies Auxiliary, this cherished tradition celebrates the special bond between past and present members of our community and reflects the strong sense of connection and belonging at Marcellin College.

Tickets are now available and can be purchased here.

SAVE THE DATE – Parent & Son Cooking Classes
Get ready to fire up the fun in the kitchen! Our popular Parent & Son Cooking Classes are back for Terms 3 and 4, proudly presented by the Parents & Friends Group.

Join us for two exciting evenings of cultural cuisine, with two sessions available each night (4pm and 7pm):

• Spanish Cooking Classes, Monday, 1 September & Tuesday, 2 September
• Japanese Cooking Classes, Monday, 20 October & Tuesday, 21 October

Spots are limited, and these sessions always fill up fast. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to bond, cook, and create lasting memories together!

Bookings will open next week via Compass.

SAVE THE DATE – Father’s Day Breakfast

Our annual Father’s Day breakfast will be held on Friday, 5 September, in the Functions Room. Tickets will go on sale next week! Be sure to mark your calendar and avoid missing out.

SAVE THE DATE – 75^th Anniversary Music Gala

Join us on Sunday, 12 October, for an unforgettable night as we celebrate 75 years of music at Marcellin College! This special gala event will showcase the incredible musical talent that has filled our halls over the decades.

Enjoy music from reunited former Marcellin bands, show-stopping acts from our most accomplished musical alumni – including Sean Millis from The Voice, and many more special performances!

A joyful, family-friendly evening honouring our rich musical heritage. Don't miss this milestone celebration of music, community and Marcellin spirit.

Tickets on sale Friday, 15 August via Compass. Be sure to mark your calendars!

Term 3 2025 Key Dates
A reminder to regularly check Compass for key dates and events, as these are subject to change. Any updates will be communicated through the platform. You can also download the PDF below for the Term 3, 2025 Key Dates.

Community News

Celebrating 75 Years: A Legacy of Excellence & Community

75^th Anniversary Commemorative Book
Own a piece of Marcellin College history! Order The Legacy That Is Marcellin College: 75 Years, 75 Stories, our stunning 75^th anniversary commemorative book.

This beautifully crafted coffee table book is more than a history; it’s a moving celebration of the people, events and moments that have shaped the spirit of Marcellin College over the past 75 years. With only a limited number of copies available, secure yours today before they’re gone! Click here to preview the book.

Order a copy for $90 including GST and delivery by emailing community@marcellin.vic.edu.au.

Year 7 2027 Enrolments CLOSING

Applications for enrolment for Year 7 2027 will close on Friday, 15 August. Students in Grade 5 are required to enrol before the closing date to avoid missing out on a place. For more information and to apply online, click here.

Second-Hand Uniform Shop
A reminder, the Second-Hand Uniform Shop, located behind Marist House, is open the first Friday of every month from 9:30am to 12:30pm.

The next opening date for Term 3 will be Friday, 5 September. Pick up those summer shirts in preparation for Term 4.

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

Careers News

Subject Selection and Careers Expo
The Subject Selection and Careers EXPO was a great opportunity for students to find out more about their subject options for 2026, finalise subject choices and explore possible post-school options. A range of tertiary providers attended the evening. It was wonderful to listen to some of the great conversations taking place.

VTAC and SEAS Applications
During August, Year 12 students will complete their VTAC applications. The Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC) is the central point for applications to Victorian universities, TAFEs and Independent Tertiary Colleges for tertiary courses, scholarships and the Special Entry Access Scheme (SEAS). VTAC also calculates the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) for Year 12 VCE students.

Students will be supported by the Careers Team to complete these applications during seminar time. As part of the process to sign up to VTAC, students will need to have a Unique Student Identifier (USI). Students can find their USI or create a USI by going to: https://www.usi.gov.au/.

Students who have previously completed nationally recognised training, such as a VET course, First Aid Course or similar, will already have a USI.

VTAC Parent Information Night
We will be hosting a VTAC Parent Information Night in the PLT on Wednesday, 6 August. Parents of Year 12 students who are planning to apply for further study are encouraged to attend the evening.

Open Days
During July and August, tertiary providers will be running their Open Days. Families and students are encouraged to attend these events to find out more about university and TAFE options. All details can be found on our website.

Feel free to drop into the Careers Office or book a meeting with either Lara Ingram or Kevin Kelly if you have any questions. 

Kevin Kelly & Lara Ingram, Careers & Further Education

Sports News

Celebrating the Conclusion of the AGSV and VRSU Winter Seasons
As the winter sporting season draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the achievements, sportsmanship and camaraderie that have defined the AGSV and VRSU competitions. The season has been a testament to the spirit of sport at Marcellin College, where teamwork, resilience and commitment have shone through.

I extend our heartfelt thanks to all students who proudly represented the College across a wide range of sports. Your dedication and sportsmanship have not gone unnoticed. To our familie, thank you for your support from the sidelines and beyond. And to our staf, your guidance, encouragement and tireless efforts have been instrumental in shaping a positive and enriching sporting experience for all.

As we celebrate the season’s end, we also look ahead with excitement. We wish our 1st XI Soccer team and our Cross Country team the very best as they prepare for their premiership quests this weekend. Your hard work and determination have brought you to this moment and the entire Marcellin College community stands behind you with pride and belief.

Marcellin Students Shine in AGSV Representative Teams
We are proud to celebrate the Marcellin students who have earned selection in AGSV Representative Teams this winter season. Their inclusion is a reflection of not only their talent but also their consistent effort, sportsmanship and determination on the field.

Being chosen for these teams is a significant honour, as it highlights the recognition of their abilities by coaches across the AGSV competition. These selections affirm the impact our boys have made throughout the season—standing out through their skill, leadership and commitment to excellence.

Congratulations to all selected students. Your achievements inspire your peers and continue to uphold the proud sporting tradition at Marcellin College.

Ben Reynolds, Head of Sport