MacKillop Catholic College Warnervale eNewsletter

Thursday 21 November 2024

A Message From Our College Principal

Dear Families,

Time To Engage: A Triangle of Strength- Parents, School and Students

The purpose of a Catholic education is to enrich both the faith and learning skills our children need as they grow into an increasingly complex world. It is the aim of the Broken Bay Diocese that every child come to know Christ in their lives. This remains a central strategic goal for us at MacKillop. One of the greatest gifts a parent can provide their children is the gift of a Catholic education that positions our young people for life as confident, compassionate, and future-ready students able to navigate the complexity of life as thriving individuals. Our commitment to parents is to work together to form a triangle of strength with Church teachings as our foundation this triangle of strength is framed by parents, the school and students. Assembled tightly, it is an enduring and potent force to better individual lives and the lives of our community.

After one year of engagement with parents through informal termly chats known as Parent & Principal Chats, we have heard the voices of many. While the informal forums established opened opportunities for robust conversations, it is time that we now focus our parent engagement opportunity on three discerning parent teams that support our strategic delivery of learning.

I am proposing that we create three teams of parents to focus on three key areas of our strategic direction.

Team 1: Learning & Wellbeing: A Response to Academic Care

Team 2: Faith & Formation: A Shared Mission

Team 3: Reimaging MacKillop Project: A Blueprint for the Future

My Learnings

It has been my experience over the last 11 months at Mackillop that our parents genuinely seek both involvement and engagement within the College. I have learnt that you like to involve yourselves in supporting fundraising, social events and participating in activities that help teachers at the College. I have also learnt that you like to be engaged and invited to ask questions that help you make meaning of practice, traditions, operational & strategic matters. Kerry, Paul and I have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with you in our Principal chats particularly when you offer support, advice and feedback regarding matters to do with your children. Finally, I have learnt that as we move forward as a community that it is essential to create a space for both parent involvement and engagement. As we move into 2025, our Leadership Team will develop a new opportunity for parent engagement that aligns with our strategic improvement.

Joining the Reimagining MacKillop Project

Thank you to the parents who have put their name down to join the Reimagining MacKillop Project. Our first meeting is this Thursday and will set the foundation for our future visioning. Please let Mrs Paige Ayling-Griffith know if you would like join this Project team at paige.aylinggriffith@dbb.catholic.edu.au.

Staff Update

Introducing Gregg Bryant in the role of HSIE/Business Teacher

We are delighted to welcome Gregg Bryant, who now resides on the Central Coast. Mr Bryant has a Masters of Economics, Masters of Theology and a Masters of Educational Studies. He has most recently worked at St Ignatius College Riverview and has also had a vast range of experience in the Independent School Sector as well as teaching in London. Mr Bryant believes that…

“An educator plays a significant role in the life of the child. They are responsible for ensuring that the student is taught the curriculum, but they are also responsible for ensuring the student values education and finds school a positive place to be. Moreover, teacher’s pastoral responsibility is as important as their instructional one. It is one’s duty as an educator to focus on Cura Personalis, the individual unique aspects of each student. All students bring to school different talents and skills that requires individual appreciation. Moreover, each student brings their own unique character to school, and therefore, deserves to be treated as individuals.”

Promotions and Congratulations

We extend our congratulations to the following MacKillop staff:

Leader of Curriculum – Shayne Winkler

Shayne Winkler is passionate about ensuring that educators are given the best opportunities to understand NESA compliance. She has vast experience in digital enablement and applies a systematic approach to undertaking projects across the College. Mrs Winkler has formed a strong connection to our Leaders of Learning and Teaching and is highly respected for her curriculum knowledge.

Wellbeing Lead – Julian Legge

Mr Legg is an aspiring leader who is driven to serve the MacKillop community by supporting the wellbeing needs of students. His teaching philosophy is deeply connected to the belief that education is not only about academic achievement but also needs to focus on fostering the spiritual, social and emotional development of young people. In his leadership, he intends to prioritise the building of strong relationships.

VET Leader of Learning / Careers Advisor – Dennis Gasparotto

Dennis Gasparotto's extensive leadership skillset has been fuelled through a career spanning 20 years of educational teaching experience and a further 20 years of private industry experience as a building contractor and project manager. This combined experience ensures that MacKillop is well placed to achieve success and excellence in the discipline of VET curriculum and careers. Dennis aims to inspire students and staff to achieve their personal best as he continues his commitment to MacKillop Catholic College.

Thursday Sport Coordinator – Rochelle Calder

Ms Calder comes to this role with vast experience and skills that have equipped her with a strong understanding of the practical and administrative demands of coordinating secondary school sports programs. She aims to foster a positive and inclusive environment that encourages student participation, promotes physical activity, and promotes overall positive wellbeing. Ms Calder looks forward to working closely with students, staff, and the wider community at MacKillop.

JUMP Coordinator – James Hodgson

Mr Hodgson is very excited to accept the role of JUMP Coordinator for 2025. He has made a personal commitment to encourage a broader range of students to participate in the JUMP program. James is able to strongly articulate the connection between the mission of the church and the teaching of Religious Education and that Social Justice opportunities offer young men and women the chance to put their values into action.

Farewell

We sadly farewell Helen Beech from our community as she extends her skillsets and passion for the teaching of languages in a new school. Whilst at MacKillop, Mrs Beech established a strong partnership with Nihon Daiichi Junior High School and an outstanding student exchange program. We will all miss Mrs Beech's dynamic personality and her passion for languages.

God Bless,

Tanya Appleby | College Principal

Primary Matters

Feast of Christ the King

Gospel Acclamation:

“Blessed is he who inherits the Kingdom of David our Father; blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” Mk11:9-10

Dear Parents and Carers,

Message from The Head of Primary,

As 2025 draws to a close it is time to highlight the various activities and events that will occur in the coming weeks.

On Monday, 25 November, at 11.30 am, the candidates for 2025 Leadership will present their speeches in the Church. Following this, the student body (Year 3-6) will vote for the positions of male and female Captain and Vice-Captain.

On Tuesday, 3 December, we gather at Mingara Swim Centre for our 2025 Swimming Carnival. Early events, including the individual medley, beginning at 9 am, and buses from school arrive at 9.30 am.

Week 9 (December 9-13) is the major week of celebrations, which highlights the hard work and dedication of our students. Students are recognised for their accomplishments in Religion, English, Mathematics, and other curriculum areas. Each class also has a Mary MacKillop Award that honours the guidance of our patron by rewarding the student who best represents her values. We all want to take the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of a wonderful year of learning.

Tuesday, 10 December, is the Primary Awards Assembly at 9.15 am (Full summer uniform).

Wednesday, 11 December, is Year 6 Graduation at 10.30 am in the St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Church (Full summer uniform with special hairstyle if you wish), followed by:

Year 6 Celebration Disco 5-6.30 pm in the Steve Aitken Hall (Smart casual)

Thursday, 12 December, is Step-up Day 9.30-10.30 am. Students spend time in their 2025 classroom (MCC Sports Uniform) followed by:

The MacKillop Primary Christmas Concert 11.30 am - 1.10 pm (self-dressed in class agreed costume and accessories) in the Steve Aitken Hall. Following this event, students can be dismissed from their classroom to go home with a parent or designated person. Students must be signed out at their classroom by their parent or delegate.

Friday, 13 December, is the End of Year Mass 10.15 am in the Steve Aitken Hall (Full summer uniform)

On Monday of Week 10, the Year 6 students will officially ‘Cross the Bridge’ and leave the Primary School for the final time.

I look forward to seeing you at one or many of these coming events as we farewell 2024.

Youth Group followed by Community Mass – The Feast of Christ the King - Year 6

This Sunday is our final Parish Mass for 2025. The Feast of Christ the King is the final Sunday of Ordinary Time before we begin the season of Advent. This Solemnity celebrates the Kingship of Jesus. One prominent example comes from the Gospel of John, where Jesus says to Pilate, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). His answer highlights that His authority is not political but spiritual and eternal.

Before Mass at 4 pm, the YMCC Team will lead fun activities for the students to create a sense of belonging. During the Mass, Year 6 will participate in Readings, liturgical movement and other ministries. Please join us for a sausage sizzle supper and take the opportunity to farewell our sensational Youth Minister, Mrs Maisie Tenev.

Rotary Awards

On Monday evening Mrs Appleby and I attended the annual Northlakes Rotary Awards Ceremony. This evening celebrates those students from K-6 who contribute positively to community initiatives. We had the great pleasure to congratulate Year 6 students Hannah C and William C, who are our 2024 Rotary Citizenship Medal recipients. At the ceremony, Bailey from Year 8 led proceedings with the National Anthem, and Lily C from Year 9 provided a musical interlude with a moving rendition of a popular song by the artist Sam Smith.

Building Project Begins!

Preparations have begun for Phase 1 of the MCC Primary Building Project. The first buildings will be moved at the end of Week 9. The Heights, which has been the Primary Staff Room for many years, will be cleared, moved to the oval and refurbished as classrooms for 2025. The current Music Room will also be moved and become a classroom for the fourth Year 2 class. Welcome 2 Myrtle! We have been planning and preparing with the CSBB Procurement Team over the year to finalise building approvals for the major build to begin in 2025. As we progress, more demountable buildings will be brought on-site to manage classes. Whilst this is a disruption, it will provide an exciting project for students to watch as the footprint of the College changes in plain sight. It is impossible to fully prepare for all elements of disruption, but my hope is that with patience and understanding, we will walk this journey toward beautiful new learning spaces that will enhance our community for the next generation of MacKillop people.

Classroom sneak peek with 6G

6G have been exploring the fascinating world of electricity. Students have been busy discovering how to build circuits using batteries, wires and bulbs. It’s been an electrifying experience watching their curiosity light up.

Brian Colton | Stage 3 Teacher

My New Gallery

Today, our Kindergarten and Year 1 students had a blast at their Athletics Fun Day. The morning kicked off with modified Athletic Carnival events, similar to the ones our Stage 2 - 3 competed in, which taught the students about good sportsmanship. Parents and friends were there to cheer them on, adding to the fun as they aimed for their personal best! After a bustling first session, the students enjoyed a picnic with our guests finishing the day with games and an obstacle course challenge. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our Year 10 PASS students and Year 6 Leaders for their invaluable support in keeping the day flowing and full of laughter. Their guidance during these significant events is always a rewarding experience for our younger students. It was a joy to see so many members of our community here, witnessing our future MacKillop Champions.

The MacKillop Primary School Chess World Championship has been contested throughout Term 4. 85 students from Kindergarten through to Year 6 have been competing over recess and lunchtime in the knockout competition, and we are now down to the final two students. Congratulations to Saransh and Nicholas, who will be playing in the grand final next week.

Tim Snelling | Primary REC

Relocating in 2025?

As the calendar year draws rapidly to a close, families take time to consider their movement for the new year. Work contracts or family dynamics can sometimes lead to circumstances that call for change. If you are leaving the MacKillop community at the end of 2024, please remember to complete an Exit Form. This form provides valuable information about our services and allows the College to plan effectively for 2025. We want to provide families on our Waiting List with adequate opportunity to formalise their child’s placement at MacKillop in the new year.

Primary MacKillop Portrait Prize Finalists

It is that time of year again when all of our creative students are busy creating portraits to enter the MacKillop Portrait Prize. This year, the theme was "Someone Special to Me." The students had to make an artwork of someone special using pencil, paint, pastels, crayons, ink, or watercolours on a 2d surface no bigger than A3. I am so excited to announce the Primary finalists for 2024.

Congratulations go to:

Teleah G, Elsie H, Isabel L, Isabelle F, Lincoln G, Jax J, Hannah V B, Olivia K, Jett F, Reesabel J, Rhys W, Olivia H, Mila F, Lana F.

The People's Choice Award is now open for voting via the school's Facebook page or via the below link. Voting is open to all families and friends and I can't wait to see who will be announced as the People's Choice Award later on in the year.

Congratulations again.

Voting at 2024 MacKillop Portrait Prize

Catherine Whitmore | Leader of Numeracy Stage 3 Coordinator

Blessings for a wonderful week

Kerry Power | Head of Primary

Baby Photos - Did you guess correctly?

YMCC Youth Group and Mass + Year 6 Community Mass Sunday 25 November

This is the last Youth Group and Mass for the Year. There will be lots of games and an opportunity to farewell our beloved Youth Minister Mrs Tenev :(

Secondary News

Dear Community,

My apologies, but due to a number of our Secondary key staff, including myself, working on HSC Marking, this week's edition will be put on hold. We will have comprehensive Secondary News next week.

God Bless,

Paul Lynch

Acting Head of Secondary

Please give what you can to help those in need of a little help this Christmas.

Year 7 2025 Orientation and Partent Information Evening

Next week, we welcome all our new Year 7 Students and their families to MCC.

On Tuesday, 26 November, we invite all parents and carers of enrolled Year 7 students for 2025 to an information evening. At this event, we will discuss everything you need to know about transitioning to secondary school and provide an opportunity for you to ask questions.

Then, on Friday, all our new Year 7 students will enjoy an exciting day getting to know each other, the College and discovering what it means to be a Year 7 student at MCC.

Our goal is that after attending these two events, your child will start the year with confidence.

Parent Information Evening - HallTuesday 26th November 20246:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Orientation DayFriday 29th November 20248:45 am – 2:45 pmWe look forward to welcoming you!

MacKillop Portrait Prize People's Choice

MacKillop Portrait Prize 2024 - People's Choice Voting Closes Tomorrow

Our annual MCC portrait competition, similar to the Archibald Prize, gives our entire student body K - 12 the opportunity to enter by drawing or painting a portrait on a given theme. The finalists can now be viewed in the MCC Creative Arts Gallery.

The People's Choice Award is our most coveted prize and is voted by the broader community, including family and friends of MacKillop; remember to share the link!

You have two votes - select one artwork from the Junior finalist, then continue to scroll down to vote on the Senior finalists.

So, let's get voting! bit.ly/2024mackillopportraitprize

Christmas Mass Times

Our parish would like to share Christmas Mass times with our community.

Christmas Eve - 5 pm, 8 pm, and Midnight

Christmas Day - 8 am and 10 am

No Evening Mass Christmas Day

Important Dates from the Finance Office

Please find below important dates from the Finance Office:

The Finance Office will close for 2024 on Tuesday, 17 December, and will reopen on Monday, 3 February.
The last day for cash payments to the Finance Office is Wednesday, 11 December. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept cash after this date.
For any school fee-related enquiries, including statements, sibling discounts, or financial hardship, please contact the School Fees Liaison Team at schoolfees@dbb.org.au or call 02 7256 2888.

Kind regards

The Finance Office

Uniform Fittings - Alinta Uniform Shop

Term 4 is the time to book into Alinta Uniform shop for your uniform fittings. Bookings are essential for fittings and can be made via the Alinta website, 1 student per booking.

Alinta's last day for 2024 is Tuesday, 17 December, with limited days available in the new year prior to school commencing:

January 16, 21, 24 and 28. All January dates will be by appointment only.

The Uniform shop will go back to normal shop hours from Tuesday, 29 January https://www.alintaapparel.com.au/

Apply now for 2025 School Opal cards

Reminder to parents and carers:

Applications are now open for 2025 Student Opal cards on the Transport for NSW website. We encourage parents and carers to apply now to ensure their children receive their School Opal card before the start of the 2025 new school year.

Could you please share the information below before the end of Term 4 to help your parents and carers prepare their children early for their bus journey to school next year.

Getting to school by bus in 2025

Will your child be catching the bus to school next year? Applications are now open for a 2025 School Opal cards. As it’s a busy time of year, we highly recommend you make this application before the end of this year. It’s also good to check the bus timetable to make your child’s journey to school as easy as possible. Here is how it works:

School Opal cards

All students catching the bus in 2025 will need a School Opal card.
Under the School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS), eligible students can apply for free or subsided travel between home and school.
For more information about the SSTS and how to apply for a School Opal Card, visit https://apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts/#/ from a desktop computer, and click 'apply for a school travel pass'.

Bus timetables

Busways is the school bus operator that runs your schools’ bus services. To find your child’s school bus timetable visit the Busways website by using the following steps:

Go to busways.com.au/nsw
Click on ‘school services’ in the navigation bar and then proceed to ‘school timetables’
Enter the school’s name in the field that says ‘enter a school name’
Select the school’s name, and the timetable should open on your device. If you are unable to find or search for the school’s name, use the drop-down menus on the same web page to find the school.

Once the timetable is opened, you will be able to identify which school bus services are available in your area for your child to use.

Sincerely,

Busways Customer Service team

2025 CAMP DATES

Camps are an integral part of school life. Away from the daily classroom, teachers and students have an opportunity to engage in new experiences and master new skills.

Listed below are tentative camp dates for 2025. Please consider these dates when booking holidays or other leave requests to take your child/ren out of school. As camps are compulsory school events, we are unable to credit or refund camp costs for non-attendance.

Year 5 29th October to 31st October 2025

Year 6 7th April to 9th April 2025

Year 7 14th May to 16th May 2025

Year 9 22nd October to 24th October 2025

Year 10 28th July to 29th July 2025

Year 11 3rd November to 5th November 2025

Mary's Faithful Wardrobe and Formal Closet

Our amazing PEC (Parent Engagement Coordinator), Lucy Marien, in collaboration with our Parish, have developed a community wardrobe for families to borrow special outfits for their child's sacrament celebrations.

Mrs Marien is also starting a Formal version for our Secondary students looking for a special graduation dress or suit.

We are currently looking for donations to get the clothing library started. We are asking the community to go through their wardrobes and consider giving your forgotten good-quality items a new purpose.

For full details, please see the flyers below.

Term 4 Dates

Term 4 – Tuesday 15 October to Tuesday 17 December

Wednesday 18 December – Student Free Day
Thursday 19 December – Student Free Day
Friday 20 December – Student Free Day

MacKillop Chronicles Term 4, Week 6