MacKillop Chronicles Term 1, Week 8

Thursday 28 March, 2024

A Message From Our College Principal

Dear Families

Enrolments for 2025

I just wanted to let you know that we have commenced the process of transitioning the current Year 6 students into Year 7 for 2025. This has involved a Meet & Greet discussion between the family, the Year 6 student and a secondary school member of the Leadership Team. I urge all currently enrolled Year 6 students to finalise their Meet & Greet appointments as soon as possible so that we are aware of the number of secured enrolments for 2025.

Families new to the College

We have a large number of families who have submitted enrolment paperwork for Kindergarten and Year 7 for 2025. It is expected that we will commence the process of enrolling these new students as quickly as possible after the Year 6 numbers have been finalised.

Parent Charter

The CSBB Parent Charter is an important document to support respectful relationships with our parents. A copy of the Charter can be found here. The Charter places great emphasis on open and two-way communication and outlines:

• What you as parents can expect from your relationship with the College;
• What the College will expect from you as parents and carers;
• Guidelines for positive communication and engagement between parents and the College;
• How to make a complaint or raise a concern and
• An explanation of unacceptable behaviours and how these are handled by the College.

Effective communication between parents and College staff is the key to a successful educational journey for your child. We value your input and are committed to working together to ensure that our school community remains a collaborative, safe, and supportive environment for all.

Technology Survey

I have had the opportunity to speak to a number of parents about devices used by students from Years 7-10, and there are multiple opinions. I would very much value engaging families on this topic through a survey and hope to get something out to you shortly.

Easter Blessing

May Easter fill your hearts and bring each of you joy.  Wishing each of our families a blessed Easter.

Lord, we praise you in this Easter season.

Change our lives, change our hearts to be messengers of Easter Joy and hope.

We make our prayer through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord, forever.

Amen

Tanya Appleby,

College Principal

Primary Matters

SUNDAY of the RESURRECTION

Gospel Acclamation: 

Lk 24:13-35 “They recognised him in the breaking of the bread”

Dear Parents and Carers,

Message from the Principal

The Easter long weekend is a mini break from the structure of our busy lives.  For many, it signals a final summer camp or a road trip to relatives before the change of weather or the arrival of winter sporting competitions. For Christians and all Catholics, the weekend is all about gathering at Mass and giving thanks for the life, death and Resurrection of Jesus through the Easter Holy days.

The tradition and ceremony of each ritual allow believers to enter into the narrative of the Easter Triduum.  The three key days are meant to feel like one long, continuous ceremony.

Thursday night reenacts the Last Supper, the washing of the disciple’s feet and the garden of ripose symbolises Jesus’ waiting and praying in the garden. Good Friday begins with the Stations of the Cross, following the footsteps of Jesus, from his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane to his burial in a stone tomb.  At 3pm, around the time of day it is thought Jesus died, the Mass focuses on The Cross and its powerful role in holding the body of Jesus in His final human moments. The Easter Vigil on Saturday night begins with the blessing of the new light as the 2024 Pascal Candle is lit for the very first time. From it, every person lights their own candle because we are called to continue to be a ‘Light for the World’, the Gloria and Alleluia return to the Mass as a sense of joyous celebration. As Easter Sunday dawns, we give thanks in many ways, exchanging gifts of Easter Eggs which symbolise new life, chocolate rabbits to show the abundance of the season (in a Northern Hemisphere spring) and perhaps a lamb roast to celebrate Jesus as our Pascal lamb.  Most importantly, we spend time with family, giving thanks for the many blessings we share and traditions we hold dear. 

May you spend your Easter break with those you love. Please take care on the roads and return safely to MacKillop on Wednesday, 3 April, following our Staff Development Day.

Year 6 Camp

This Term, our Year 6 Students will soon be undertaking an education tour of the national capital. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy. 

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion

Harmony Day

Harmony Day is scheduled to be celebrated in Week 9 this term. Harmony Week will culminate with the entire College celebrating our inclusive and diverse community on Friday, 5 April. The theme for Harmony Week is “Everyone Belongs”.

On Friday, 5 April, students can come to school in either their cultural/traditional dress or wear orange (the official colour of Harmony Week). During Break time students in cultural dress are invited to parade in the Primary shade area and will be joined by secondary students.

This year, the College is offering a meal deal for this day, consisting of a drink and a sausage sizzle. Orders for this promotion can be placed via the Qkr App. Qkr is available for Android and Apple through the Play and App Stores. Orders must be placed before the end of the day on Thursday, 28 March.

Don't forget your Harmony Day T-shirt (purchased via Qkr will also be delivered to your child before Friday, 5 April, in class.

Uniform

As the weather begins to change to the cooler seasons, it is time to begin planning your child’s Winter Uniform.  The changeover officially begins Term 2, Week 3, on Monday, 13 May. Please refer to the Uniform Policy (link below) for accurate information.  We ask that students wear one uniform completely rather than elements of both.

The uniform shop is open and is ready to receive orders for Term 2.

Positive Behaviour for Learning

Our focus continues to be on intentionally attending to our actions and behaviours and how they affect others, including the community to which we belong.

Respecting ourselves and others is one of our school rules at MacKillop.

As a community, we are called to:

• Be in the right place at the right time.
• Include others and be fair.
• Use kind words and actions.
• Care for our appearance and belongings.

Blessings for a Happy and Holy Easter,

Kerry Power

Acting Primary Principal

Primary Events

PEC - Paint & Sip Thursday, 4 April

Secondary News

Dear MCC Community,

This week I would like to turn your attention to mental health and specifically to explore nurturing resilience.

In the ever-shifting landscape of adolescence, mental health plays a pivotal role in shaping a young person's future. It's a period marked by significant changes, both physically and emotionally, making it crucial to prioritize mental well-being. Building good mental health habits during this formative stage sets the foundation for a fulfilling and resilient adulthood. Here's a guide to nurturing mental health for adolescents.

1. Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue fosters trust and allows adolescents to express their thoughts and emotions freely. Parents, guardians, teachers, and mentors should create a supportive environment where teens feel comfortable discussing their concerns without fear of judgment. Active listening and empathy are key components in nurturing healthy communication.
2. Healthy Relationships: Cultivating healthy relationships is fundamental for adolescent mental health. Encourage friendships built on mutual respect, trust, and support. Healthy relationships serve as a buffer against stress and provide avenues for emotional expression and growth.
3. Balanced lifestyle: Promote a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, nutritious eating habits, and sufficient sleep. Physical well-being is closely intertwined with mental health. Regular physical activity releases endorphins, reducing stress and anxiety levels, while adequate sleep enhances cognitive function and mood regulation.
4. Mindfulness and stress management: Introduce adolescents to mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing exercises. These techniques help build resilience, improve focus, and regulate emotions. Teaching stress management skills equips teens with valuable tools to navigate challenges effectively.
5. Limit screen time: Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, can negatively impact mental health. Encourage adolescents to maintain a healthy balance and set boundaries around screen usage. Promote offline activities that foster creativity, social interaction, and personal growth.
6. Encourage hobbies and interests: Engaging in hobbies and activities they enjoy boosts self-esteem and provides a sense of accomplishment. Encourage adolescents to explore their interests, whether it's art, music, sports, or volunteering. Pursuing passions outside of academic pressures promotes holistic development and resilience.
7. Request professional help when needed: Normalize seeking professional help for mental health concerns. Ensure adolescents understand that it's okay to ask for support when they're struggling. School counsellors, therapists, or mental health helplines can provide valuable assistance and guidance.
8. Promote self-compassion: Teach adolescents the importance of self-compassion and self-care. Encourage them to practice self-acceptance and kindness toward themselves, especially during times of difficulty or failure. Building a positive self-image lays the groundwork for strong mental health.

Ultimately, building good mental health for adolescents requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses communication, healthy relationships, lifestyle habits, mindfulness, and self-care. By fostering resilience and providing support, we empower adolescents to navigate the complexities of adolescence with confidence and optimism, setting the stage for a bright and fulfilling future.

Blessings as you navigate these formative years with your emerging adults.

Mrs. Mel McGuinness

Secondary Assistant Principal

Year 10 JUMP Art and Year 4 Collaboration

Students from Year 10 and Year 4 have been working on an art installation this term. The goal of the Central Coast Waterways Project is to increase knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the Tuggerah Lakes system and what is needed to protect and restore this fragile environment.

Students will create a ceramic and recycled bottle art installation that will highlight the endangered species in the Tuggerah Lakes.

The ceramic installation will be displayed within the wider community through the Central Coast Council. This is a K-10 Project. Secondary students will complete the ‘hero’ beads, whilst Primary students will complete the ceramic joiner beads

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YMCC 

This has been a very busy and vibrant time for YMCC students, particularly in the final weeks of Lent. Keisha, Georgia and Keanu have been making final preparations before they are baptised and fully received into the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil Mass this coming Saturday. The MacKillop community is right behind you! 

On behalf of the YMCC crew, we wish you all a safe and holy Easter with many blessings for you and your loved ones. Find some time over the Easter weekend to reflect on the ultimate act of sacrificial love of Jesus’ death. A lot can happen in three days, and we will rejoice that death has been defeated. Happy Easter! 

Connecting Catholic Coasties

Last Friday, over 40 students from Years 7-12 attended the Term 1 Connecting Catholic Coasties at St Brigid’s for an Easter Festival. Students and staff enjoyed a hot chip sandwich and a drink before the music, dancing, games, and Easter Egg Hunt began. Students also spent some time reflecting on the real meaning of Easter and had the opportunity to pray with their friends before the Cross. Thank you to Sr Jiji, Mrs Elcoate and Mrs Beeson for supporting the event. 

Youth Group and Youth Mass

On Palm Sunday, we gathered for Youth Group and Youth Mass, and what a beautiful way to begin Holy Week. The Youth Group started off with some games and challenges, followed by colouring mandalas and chatting about the events and significance of Holy Week. During the Mass, our Altar Servers were blessed and commissioned, and Keisha was presented to the congregation in preparation for her Baptism. Thank you to Fr Philip, the students and the staff that served or assisted in making the afternoon so enjoyable and special. 

ANZAC Ceremony

The theme of this year’s service is 'The impact of conflict and overcoming adversity'. Our service special guest speaker is a former NSW Australian of the Year representative who is a refugee from Sudan. He will very generously share his story and describe how he overcame the challenges presented by conflict in his life. We are fortunate to have members from the Toukley RSL joining us once again. We would like to extend an invitation to our MCC community to attend from 12 pm on Monday, 8 April, in the Hall. 

Thursday Sports Selections for Term 2

Thursday, 28 March, is the time to check your student email account for information regarding Term 2, Thursday Sports Selections. Please ensure selections are completed by 9:00 am Tuesday, 2 April.

God bless,

Paul Lynch 

Acting Principal Secondary

A Word from the Office

Go4Fun Term 2

April Vacation Care

Siblings enrol now

Australian Stem Video Game Challenge

The Premier's Reading Challenge 2024

Mary's Faithful Wardrobe and Mary's Formal Closet

Term 1 Dates

COMPASS Sign-in Update

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