MacKillop Chronicles 2023 Term 4, Week 8

Thursday 30 November, 2023

Primary Matters

Dear Community,

First Sunday of Advent Gospel Account

“Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know when the time will come. Mark 13:33-37.

Advent is the season of preparation as we celebrate the birth of Christ. This Gospel account is about his second coming and that when he comes for us to be ready. How are we to prepare for this? By following his commandment of love one another, as he has shown us to do.

By being kind, helping and looking out for the less fortunate. Through prayer of thanks and doing honourable deeds. By not gossiping, cheating, lying, or doing evil against others. We are all human, and we all make mistakes. If we keep on making these same mistakes without repenting them, then we will be falling asleep for the second coming of Christ.

Andrew Chinn Concert Monday 4 December

Everyone is excited to welcome Andrew Chinn to the school on Monday to work with the children on Advent/Christmas songs. Commencing at 5pm, parents are invited to the hall to enjoy a concert put on by the children with Andrew to celebrate the coming of Christmas. Santa will be along, and there will be a free sausage sizzle for all in attendance. Come along on what will be a wonderful evening of fun and song.

Step Up Morning

All students will step up into their new classes for 2024 between 9:15 and 11 am on Tuesday, 5 December. At this time, they will meet their new classmates and teachers for 2024. We will also welcome new families to our community joining us for the new school year.

Advent Presentation in the Hall @ 11:30 am on Tuesday, 5 December 

Parents can come along and watch the reenactment of the nativity scene in the hall presented by some of our Primary students. It is important in the education of our children that they witness the events of the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. This should last for about an hour or so, and if parents want to take their child home after the event, they can do so. Just be in contact with your child’s teacher on the way out. No need to go to the office to sign out.

Year 6 Graduation Mass and Celebration

This coming Wednesday, 6 December, we will farewell our graduating Year 6 grade of 2023. They have been wonderful students, and we are looking forward to celebrating their achievements with a special Mass in the church followed by dinner and disco afterwards in the hall.

Primary Swimming Carnival

Another great swimming carnival was held this week with students having a great time in and out of the pool. We have some strong swimmers at MCC! It was a great day and ran smoothly thanks to Mrs Dennerman, Ms Grace, our Year 6 and secondary student helpers. Awards & CCC Team will be announced at our first assembly next year.

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End of Year K – 12 Mass Thursday 7th December at 10 am in the Hall

All are welcome to our end-of-year Mass to celebrate 2023 and to farewell staff leaving MacKillop. In particular, we will farewell Mrs Ferguson Secondary Principal who has been here since the start of the College in 2003.

Academic Awards Assembly Friday 8th December at 9 am, in the Hall

We will acknowledge all the students who have been working diligently throughout the year for their efforts and achievements. Parents of students receiving an award are encouraged to come along to this wonderful event.

Semester Two Reports Friday 8 December

Student reports for Semester Two will be sent home via Compass on Friday, 8 December.

Staff and Grade Allocations will be released on Tuesday, 5 December, after Step Up

A full list of staff for 2024 will be given to parents on Tuesday. This will show the class teachers and also the new school executive and support staff for 2024. Some finishing touches to staffing are being finalised this week.

Congratulations to India

Recently our very own India competed in the Hunter Valley Team at the State Championships of NSW Gymnastics. India performed extremely well at the meet and finished up receiving a Bronze Medal. Well done what an amazing achievement!

Infants Koori Choir

The infants Primary Koori choir is performing at the Assembly of Excellence at Wyong High School on Friday, 1 December. Our very own Mrs Broadley is the conductor for the choir which has brought together students from 10 schools to perform at tomorrow's event. Some MCC students will be playing ukulele as well. 

Advent Prophecy with 1W

This week in 1W, students listened to the presentation ‘Advent Prophecy’ and responded through various mediums. Students created Advent wreaths using Lego, playdough and watercolour paint.

1W thoroughly enjoys exploring and responding to new presentations in Religious Education lessons through these hands-on, play-based tasks.

The last day of school for 2023 for students is Thursday, 14 December.

A Thought for the Week…

“The Lord is coming, always coming. When you have ears to hear and eyes to see, you will recognise him at any moment of your life. Life is Advent; life is recognising the coming of the Lord.” Nouwen.

God Bless,

Frank Cohen

Primary Principal

Little Lighthouse Playgroup - See you next year

Secondary News

From the Secondary Principal

Prayer:

This Sunday is the International Day for People with Disabilities

International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is a UN day that is celebrated every year on 3 December.

The day is about promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities at every level of society and development, and to raise awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life. WHO joins the UN in observing this day each year, reinforcing the importance of securing the rights of people with disabilities, so they can participate fully, equally and effectively in society and face no barriers in all aspects of their lives.

God of all people,

You have made us in your image, delighting in your creation.

Help us to see and receive each person as a beloved and unique part of your body.

We are all part of the Body of Christ.

You desire all people to use their gifts to enrich the world around them. Help us to celebrate and support the participation and leadership of people with disability in our communities.

We are all part of the Body of Christ.

You give and sustain life, opening ways of thinking and doing that allow all to grow. Help us to be inclusive in welcoming people with disability as a vital part of “us”.

We are all part of the Body of Christ.

We ask this through Christ, who lives within us and calls us all to the fullness of life.

Amen.

Learning:     

All My Own Work:

All My Own Work is a program designed to help HSC students follow the principles and practices of good scholarship. This includes understanding, valuing and using ethical practices when locating and using information as part of their HSC studies.

Students who have completed the program will also know about penalties for cheating and how to avoid malpractice when preparing their work for assessment.

To be eligible for the HSC, students must complete HSC: All My Own Work (or its equivalent) before they submit any work for Preliminary (Year 11) or HSC (Year 12) courses unless they are only entered for Year 11 and Year 12 Life Skills courses.

All our Year 10 students completed this course last week

Minimum Standards:

Students need to achieve Level 3 or 4 in short online reading, writing and numeracy tests of skills for everyday life to meet the HSC minimum standard.

Students in Year 12 get up to 6 times per year to sit for each minimum standard reading, writing or numeracy test. Students in Years 10 and 11 get up to 4 times per year to sit for each test. At least 30 calendar days are required before re-attempting a test in the same domain.

Students can take the tests from Year 10 until up to 5 years after starting their first HSC course and schools will help students decide when they are ready to take each test.

Students planning to leave school before completing their HSC may choose to take these tests to show their level of literacy and numeracy skills for future employers.

Our Year 10 students sat for some of these tests last week, and they will receive their test results via Students Online.

If they achieve the required level, they have completed that particular minimum standard, but if they do not, MacKillop will provide other opportunities and some tutoring where necessary to ensure all pass before they complete their HSC exams.

Person of Eminence:

In Week 7, the Diverse Learning Students from Years 6 and 7 showcased their Person of Eminence presentations before an audience of staff and family. The students were required to research and create a PowerPoint of images only, set to transition in synchronisation with an accompanying speech about their Person. They were given the added challenge of staying in character throughout the speech and afternoon as the audience mingled and interacted with them. A video reflection as the researcher, was also incorporated in their presentation.

This challenge was designed to enrich each student’s experience of using advanced research and presentation skills useful for future educational tasks. The PowerPoint style, a variation of what is known as the Pecha Kucha, used functions not often employed. The students showed a deep level of reflective thinking, as well as an understanding of scholarship principles and practices and overall enhancement of their information literacy skills.

After the 7 wonderful presentations, the audience were able to visit each students Person of Eminence booth whilst they remained in character and spoke about their life and times. All students excelled in the task of staying in character.

The audience were also treated to refreshments that each character provided and would have enjoyed in their life and time. They enjoyed a handmade pie from Alexander Hamilton, a sponge cake from Florence Nightingale, doughnuts from Thomas Edison (doughnuts being created in the year he was born), mince pies from Catherine Howard, sandwiches, and a fine collection of mini cakes from Queen Elizabeth II, Samosas from Malala Yousafzai and chocolate cake from Sir Isaac Newton.

The afternoon was concluded with a Kahoot quiz taken from information presented by the students.

It was a delight to see their efforts come together at such a high level and in such an entertaining way that staff and family were delighted to watch.

Well done to Thomas Cooper, Lilly Curtis, Ava Francis, Ella Gillet, Charlotte Kenney, JR Gillet and Malak Ahmed. You were all outstanding! A special thanks to Mrs Sandeman for her efforts in coordinating the project and supporting the students. 

TIMMS

This year our school was one of 60 schools nominated by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) to undertake Trends in International Mathematics and Science (TIMMS) testing. It is an international testing project that looks at what students know and can do in Mathematics and Science.

This is compulsory for schools if they are chosen; it is optional for the students. Generally, a participation/response rate of 90% is required. Of our two classes, we did not meet the 90% response rate as a significant number of students were not at school on the day.

The test consisted of three parts:

• Parts 1 & 2 - students were randomly allocated a Maths or Science test or a Maths AND Science Test
• Each of these tests were of 45 minutes duration
• Part 3: A Questionnaire of 30 minutes duration – some questions required factual answers about themselves, and some questions required their opinions

At our school, two classes were chosen by ACER, and they undertook the tests on 22 November. The students were remarkably focused, and we really appreciated the spirit in which they engaged with the project.

We particularly thank Mrs McGuinness for all the hard work and many hours that was required to run these tests.

End of Year Reports for Years 7-10:

Teachers are presently writing the end-of-year reports, which will be published on COMPASS on Tuesday 12 December.

End of Year Award Ceremonies:

On Monday, 11 December, we will be holding very important Year Assemblies with the students, where many will receive certificates and recognition of the achievements they have made this year. These assemblies are not open to parents, and many students will be surprised by what we know about their various achievements. We wish to ensure the students receive certificates to be able to add to their resumes and also to be extremely proud of their efforts. These will be recognition in areas such as sport, cultural pursuits, community service, youth ministry, attendance, and application to study,

On Tuesday, 12 December 12, we will be holding our Awards of High Distinction, where we will recognise our academic high achievers, our Leaders, and our major sports people, as well as major awards in many extra and co-curricular areas. We also have many sponsored awards with monetary prizes. Our most prestigious awards in the area of citizenship, Youth Ministry and outreach are also awarded.

Tuesday’s Award ceremony starts at 12.30 pm in the College Hall, and ALL students need to attend. Parents are very welcome and encouraged to attend this ceremony.

We will advise all students who are receiving awards on that day, but all students should be present to congratulate and recognise the accomplishments of their peers and friends and also see what they might strive for in 2024.

Last Day for Secondary:

The last day for ALL secondary students is Tuesday, 12 December. This provides them with an excellent holiday break, so they MUST NOT start their holiday any earlier.

Year 9 Spirituality Day 

On Thursday, 23 November, the Year 9 cohort participated in a Spirituality Day called ‘Catch the Wave’. During periods 1-4, the Year 9 students were challenged to reflect on their faith journey and how they can share their gifts and talents with the school and local community. The students were introduced to Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the church, and we were so proud of how they engaged and participated in prayer. A number of Year 10 students assisted on the day by running icebreakers, games and assisting with the program. Thank you to Mrs Patil, the Year 9 RE teachers, Mr Fisher and Br Shayne for your support! 

A Very CCC Christmas 

On Friday, 24 November, we welcomed students from St Brigid’s, St Peter’s, and St Joseph’s to MacKillop for the Connecting Catholic Coasties (CCC) Christmas Party. Planning and preparing for the event took months, and it was wonderful to see our students ‘step up’ in leadership on the evening. We had lots of food, games, music, prizes and even Christmas Caroling. Thank you to our student leaders, Mr Fisher, the band and the teachers for supporting the evening.

Youth Group and Youth Mass 

On Sunday, 26 November, we held our last Youth Group and Youth Mass for the year. We are so proud of the students who have been attending regularly, particularly our Pharus leaders and World Youth Day pilgrims. We hope to welcome and see more of our MacKillop students and families next year. Thank you to our parents and carers for your support, the parish office for our BBQ after Mass and to the staff that make the effort to support our Youth Mass each month, Mrs Power, Mrs Camilleri, Mrs Price and Sr Jiji. 

Camp Breakaway:

On Wednesday, 22 November, some of our students attended the final camp for 2023 at Breakaway to assist with the Mini Olympics. Camp Breakaway provides fun-filled programs of three to four days for people living with disabilities aged 18 - 65. The Year 9 students who helped on the day were excellent; dressing up and encouraging the camp participants to get involved, cheer and have a good time. It was a lot of fun, and we are looking forward to returning in March 2024.

Raging Waters:

The JUMP Program is an important part of the culture of our school. Over the past 8 years, our students have engaged in numerous volunteer opportunities locally and more recently, abroad with the Red Earth Immersion. Whilst the program is not about the reward system, it is nice to be able to acknowledge our students for their commitment and exemplary service work. The fact that over 90 students participated in 50 or more hours of community service is truly commendable and reflects their strong commitment to making a positive impact. The initiative to reward these students with a day out at Raging Waters, Sydney, not only acknowledges their hard work but also provides a well-deserved opportunity for relaxation and fun.

Thankfully, the weather was nice, and the lines on the rides were relatively short! All of the students enjoyed themselves, and the teachers, including; Mrs Beeson, Mr Hodgson, Miss Goodwin, Mr Murphy, Ms Gorman and Mr Gasparotto, had fun on the slides too.

Kudos to all of the students for their outstanding service work in 2023.

Our Christmas Appeal:

Secondary Vinnies Christmas Appeal is being held during Weeks 6 - 8. The last day for donations is Friday 1st December.

All students from 7-10 are asked to please bring in an item allocated by their Pastoral teacher. Our senior students are kindly requested to donate an unwrapped toy suitable for a girl or boy aged 1 - 15.

During weeks 7 and 8, the Mini Vinnies will be selling Christmas earrings and ornaments. All money raised will go towards purchasing vouchers for our hampers so the recipients can buy fresh food, veggies and meat.

There will also be HOUSE POINTS given to the most enthusiastic house!!

Here are some suggestions for what might go into the hampers. You could also add Christmas tablecloths, bonbons, etc, for a festive table.

Item: 250g Pkt Of Chips, 100g Pkt Of Rice Crackers - Chicken Or Bbq, 360g (6pk) Fruit Mince Pies, 100g English Breakfast 50pkt Teabags, Lime Flavour 85g Jelly Chrystals, 825g Tin Fruit Salad In Juice, 425g Sliced Beetroot Tin, 700g Plum Pudding, 2 Litre Kanga Koolers Lime Cordial, 500g Jar Pasta Sauce - Bolognese, 450g Tin Deli Style Leg Ham, 500g Strawberry Conserve Jam, 400g Choc Hazelnut Spread, 375g Maple Flavoured Syrup, 375g Pancake Shake Mix, 100g Gold Coffee Jar.

Our Mini Vinnies are also busy making our Christ Our Light tree ornaments in preparation for our Xmas Fundraiser next week.

They are all handmade and look beautiful; we can't wait to have them available to our community.

Cash and Eftpos are available. Prices ranging from $3 - $5. Selling during Break times and at the Youth Mass on 26 November.

Special BONUS House points are being given this week to the Pastoral Class with the best Video, must include a picture of your hamper donation baskets as well.

Kinder and JUMP students:

This week KM completed Christmas tree decorations for their families.  The Secondary and Kinder students are enjoying their "buddies" in art and hope to continue their JUMP Art interactions next year. 

The joy in the Kindy faces says it all. Having the buddies creates a sense of belonging and valuable social skills.

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Dress up for Christmas and Bring a Gold Coin:

Last Friday, our students dressed up for Christmas and donated a gold coin to go towards Gift Cards for our Christmas Hampers. These cards will allow those who receive the hampers to buy fresh fruit and vegetables and some meat for Christmas Day. House points were allotted to those in costume.

At assembly, in Period 3, we had further House competitions with who could sing the National Anthem the loudest, and then the entire school, students, and staff engaged in a rousing version of Jingle Bells. Lots of fun!!!

Other Items:

Attendance:

It is so important that all students attend school every day to enhance their learning. Please strive for the 92% attendance that NESA suggests at least and please encourage and assist your children to be resilient. Of course, they should stay home if they are ill, but they need to be in a good routine to be able to be successful and committed to their education.

It is also important that they are at school every day, including the very last day on Tuesday 12 December.

Important Dates for T4 Week 9:

• Mon onwards –Christmas Appeal/ COVID Tutoring /
• Mon – VET Induction/ Coast Shelter / Primary Christmas Concert after school 5 pm/ NSWCCC Awards
• Tues – White Card Training / CAPA Showcase 4.30 pm
• Wed – Year 6 Grad Mass and Dinner
• Thurs – K-12 end of Year Mass /Seven Mile Pathways Event /
• Fri – Primary Awards in the Hall/ Assembly cancelled and House activities occurring.

A Heads Up:

COMPASS Notification:

From this term, parents are not able to download and print a hardcopy consent form from COMPASS.  Instead, all parents need to use COMPASS to both give digital permission and make any payment(s). Please refer to the notice on COMPASS that has this information and an attachment that instructs you on how to complete these forms digitally.

Starting Dates in 2024:

Wed, 24 Jan – Office re-opens

Tues, 30 Jan – Teachers return. PL Day and no students / This week is being called Week 0.

Wed, 31 Jan – PL day and no students

Thurs, 1 Feb – Year 7 commence / all new students in Years 8-11 have a half day

Fri, 2 Feb – All students Years 7-12 return.

Final Word

If you have any questions or concerns as always, please contact the College.

Remember to check COMPASS, our website and our Facebook pages for information.

God bless.

Debra Ferguson

Secondary Principal

Debra Ferguson

Secondary Principal

Getting to know: Corrine Patil

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Uniform Fittings - Book Now

Parish Trivia Night - Saturday @ 6.30 pm

Year 7 2024 Information

Primary - BYODD Information

Christmas Mass Times

Vacation Care program for Dec & Jan- now available

Mary's Faithful Wardrobe and Mary's Formal Closet

Safeguarding Office career opportunity

One Talk at a Time

NSW and ACT Pathways to Post School Life

Term 4 Dates

COMPASS Sign-in Update

Download the app so you are always up to date with school events.