MacKillop Chronicles Term 2, Week 4

We are still receiving applications for 2026 Waitlist places across the College. Interviews for key Year groups are almost complete with offers being sent out. If you or someone you know is planning on joining the MCC community next year, apply now before it is too late!

For more information about enrolments, please contact Mrs Farrell or Mrs Scarcella on 7256 2116 or via email smccwenrolments@dbb.org.au

In Term 2, the focus for Parent Engagement will be on Learning. We offer parents the opportunity to learn about what is happening in the classroom and provide strategies on how parents can support the learning of their children. These meetings will be provided on a face-to-face basis during the school day and via Teams in the early evening.

Tuesday 27 May – Year 10 Focus: Why choices and pathways are important: Preparing your child for subject selection.

Tuesday 3 June – Years 8 & 9 Focus: Stepping up: Where students should be at and what they need to do to improve. Only offered as an evening online session via Teams.

Registration for these events will be communicated via Compass from our Parent Engagement Coordinator, Lucy Marien.

‘May - Family Reading Month’ Big Event!

Family Reading and Pizza Night – Tuesday, 27 May 4.30 - 6 pm

All families are welcome – children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Come along and spend time together in our beautiful library reading, followed by a delicious pizza dinner. 

Order your Pizza on Qkr before midday on Monday, 26 May. Please remember that no cash payments will be taken at the finance office.

Family - $12
Meatlovers, Hawaiian, Chicken supreme

Mini - $5
Simply cheese, Pepperoni, Hawaiian

Garlic bread - $2, BYO drinks

Jacqueline Crowe | Teacher Librarian K - 12

Parent Engagement Talks - Learning

I thank and acknowledge all the parents who have been able to attend these information sessions based on learning.  So far, we've conducted talks for Years 7, 11 and 12 parents with the remaining year groups scheduled over the next couple of weeks.

We are intent on engaging with our parents as it is such a key piece of the puzzle in delivering the very best learning outcomes to our students.

We truly appreciate your feedback and hope these information sessions provide valuable information for you, so that you can engage with your child's education here at MacKillop.

For parents of children in Years 8 to 10, please consider registering for the remaining sessions.

It's important we continue to build a very robust culture around learning at the College.  I see amazing potential in our students, and through hard work on their behalf and that of their teachers, I have the utmost confidence that they can achieve amazing things.

It takes a team effort, but with a united approach between the College, our students and our families, the sky truly is the limit.

God bless,

Paul Lynch | Head of Secondary

In Week 3, our Year 7 students embarked on an exciting adventure at the Great Aussie Bushcamp in Lake Macquarie. Throughout the camp, they embraced a variety of thrilling activities, from soaring on the giant swing to navigating the gully crossing, testing their strength in rock climbing and honing their skills in agility initiatives and archery. High ropes and pioneering challenges further pushed them beyond their comfort zones, fostering resilience and teamwork.

Evenings were just as memorable, with a challenge night that encouraged problem-solving and collaboration, followed by a lively disco where students could unwind and celebrate their experiences. Despite the muddy terrain and occasional wet weather, spirits remained high, and the sense of camaraderie was undeniable.

Overall, it was an incredible few days filled with adventure, teamwork and personal growth—an experience that will be remembered fondly by all who attended!

I extend my appreciation to the dedicated staff who attended: Mrs Werchon, Miss Willcox, Mrs Lees, Miss Sneddon, Mr Wilkins, Mr Hodgson, Mr Sadler, Mr Legge, Mr Lynch, Mrs Swords and Mrs Lea for all of their organisation, etc. Your support and commitment made a meaningful impact on this experience. Thank you!

Kind regards,

Candice Gorman | Year 7 Leader of Wellbeing, Secondary Teacher  

Together, Let’s Shape the Future of the Family Journey Experience - Survey  
 
Dear Parents and Carers, 
 
Families across our 45 schools, from the Northern Beaches to the North Shore and Central Coast have recently been invited to join a shared conversation about the future of Catholic education in the Diocese of Broken Bay. 
 
While many participated in face-to-face precinct-based sessions, we understand not everyone could attend. To ensure every voice is heard, we have created a short online survey to capture your insights, reflections, and ideas. 
 
Your feedback will help us: 
 
•        Build on what’s working well, 
•        Identify opportunities for improvement, and 
•        Strengthen the Family Journey from Baptism through to post-school life. 
 
Survey responses will be reviewed by the Director of Schools and the CSBB Board to help shape a shared and sustainable vision for our schools. 
 
Together, Let’s Shape the Future of the Family Journey Experience 
 
Please complete the survey by Friday, 23 May 2025. 
 
Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. Your voice is valued and plays a vital role in building strong, faith-filled school communities. 
Kind Regards 
 
Michal Brenchley | Chief Parent Officer 
Catholic Schools Broken Bay 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

A big focus in 2025 for our College is a value that deeply impacts not only academic success but life as a whole: the importance of commitment and showing up. To illustrate this, we draw inspiration from the remarkable story of Michael Jordan, one of the most iconic figures in sports history.

Michael Jordan’s accolades—six NBA championships, five Most Valuable Player awards, and a legacy in basketball—represent excellence and achievement. Yet, even a legend like Jordan faced moments of struggle. During the 1997-1998 NBA season, famously referred to as his "Last Dance" with the Chicago Bulls, Jordan admitted to experiencing a period of complacency. For over three weeks, his focus wavered. He slept in, skipped workouts, and took shortcuts in his routine.

Jordan’s candid admission reveals a universal truth: even the best among us can fall into complacency. He explained, "It’s easy for complacency to set in; it’s human nature." However, this momentary lapse taught him a critical lesson: success is not automatic. Extraordinary results require extraordinary effort. Recognising the impact of his actions, Jordan returned to the habits that had defined his greatness. He renewed his commitment to early mornings, rigorous training, and preparation. By showing up consistently, he regained his legendary form.

This story holds a powerful message for all of us, particularly for our students at MacKillop. Success begins with consistency—whether it’s attending school regularly, putting effort into studies, or preparing for future endeavours. Each day at MacKillop Catholic College is an opportunity to grow academically, socially, and personally. Beyond the academic achievements, school provides a space for students to connect with peers, learn from their teachers, and build a foundation of discipline and resilience.
As part of our “Every Day Counts” attendance focus, we want to emphasise the impact of being present and engaged. Like Michael Jordan’s story, it’s a reminder that shortcuts won’t lead to greatness. What separates excellence from mediocrity is the commitment to showing up—wholeheartedly and consistently.

We encourage all parents to support this message by reinforcing the importance of regular attendance and active participation in school life. Together, we can empower our students to embrace the values of commitment, perseverance, and trust in the process.

Every Day Counts! 

Luke Barry-Donnellan | Director of Wellbeing K-12 

Saturday, 24 May, is the feast of Our Lady Help of Christians. Our Lady Help of Christians was made patroness of Australia in 1844, at the first Provincial Synod that was held in Sydney, where the Cathedral is named in her honour. The devotion to Mary under this title goes back to the days when she was appealed to successfully when Christians needed help against enemies and danger. This day is a solemnity for our Church, and we pray that with the Lord’s goodness, Our Lady Help of Christians may continue to guide and protect us.

This Sunday, 25 May at 5 pm is our Parish Youth Mass. We warmly invite all our families from across our MacKillop community K-12 to join us. From 4 pm, our Youth Ministry Coordinator will lead games and youth group activities with our younger children, and from 5 pm, we celebrate the Eucharist, with a light supper to follow Mass. It would be lovely to see our students come and assist with either the youth group or other Mass ministries.

This is an amazing opportunity for our students and families to come together and explore their Catholic faith as part of our wonderful MacKillop community.

Blessings,

Chrystal Price | Deputy Head Evangelisation and Catechesis

Term 2 has presented opportunities for students to excel in their sport. This term, the College will have our Soccer, Rugby League, Cross Country, Netball, Oztag and Tennis teams compete in the CSBB and regional gala days. We also have our Athletics’ Carnival on the 18^th June.

How can a student represent MacKillop?

Sign-ups will be sent via Compass, where the student will register. The Coach (teacher) will hold a meeting/trial/training to then select teams.

What’s next?

The Student will need to make meetings/selection trials/training sessions

If a student’s behaviour at school has been ongoing, they will be less likely / to represent the College. If a student is selected into a team and is unfortunately suspended from school (internally or externally) they will not be able to represent the College or the Pathway (CSBB or NSW CCC teams). This occurs in all schools, this is not just Mackillop. Thank you for your understanding.

The College’s major carnivals Swimming (completed), Cross Country (completed) and our College Athletics will be held on the 18^th June 2025 at Mingara Athletics Centre.

The Age champions and house champions are yet to be known. They will be finalised by the end of Term 2 and announced at an assembly in the term.

CSBB (Catholic schools Broken Bay Sport)

During Week 3, we saw students represent the College as individuals at CSBB soccer. Due to the weather, the competition was changed to a knockout tournament. The boys and girls teams demonstrated outstanding gamesmanship, though both went down by a goal in their games.

Cross Country

We have a number of students representing the College in the CSBB cross country at Gosford Racecourse. The event has been postponed due to the weather. The new date is 30th May at the same venue.

Netball

Our Open and Years 9 / 10 girls' netball teams will play in Week 6. Along with a new pathway, our first boys' team will play. We wish these students all the best on the day.

NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC)

Rugby League

Good luck to our representative Rugby League players, who are representing the Metropolitan Rugby League team this week at Camden (girls) and St. Mary's (Boys).

U15 Boys – Javier C

Open Boys – Keanu M

Open Girls – Lagi B and Tyra F

Throughout the year, students will have more opportunities to be selected into NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC) teams. There are two ways of being selected into these teams.

The first, via school representation, students will be selected into the College team, then selected to represent the CSBB Broken Bay team at the NSW CCC carnival, where A NSW Combined Catholic Colleges team will be selected.

The second way is by a student registering as an individual. This can be achieved by registering via the CSNSW Sport portal https://csnsw.sport/.

Year 12 Award winners

Last Friday, during our whole school assembly, we celebrated our Year 12 placegetters for Semester 1. It is always a great opportunity to showcase student achievement and dedication. We know that hard work is more than just effort; it is consistency, self-motivation, diligence and going the extra mile. Every assignment completed, every challenge overcome, and every extra step taken is an investment in their future.

It is important to note that students who see success set themselves high expectations, commit to their studies, and put in the hours. They are always willing to challenge themselves. I mentioned at this assembly that all students should aspire to walk across the stage over the course of their time at MacKillop.

We have a number of award winners who received a place of 1^st to 3^rd in their courses. Please see some of the pictures attached. 

Below are our students who received the Academic Excellence Award. These students place in the top three or more than three courses they study.

I would like to acknowledge and congratulate all our award winners on these achievements.

Year 12 opportunities

This year, we will be offering the Year 12 students some extra opportunities to maximise their success in their HSC.

Weekly exam practice sessions

This is an opportunity to practice under supervised, timed conditions. These sessions are run on days that most students leave school during lunch break due to study periods. This is an ideal time to stay at school and complete study and exams in a quiet space.

Trial exam “lock-in” sessions

These sessions will be prepared by class teachers to provide valuable insights, tips and tricks and best practice for the Trial and HSC exams. These sessions aim to prepare students for these exams. 

These will be held in Term 3, Weeks 1 and 2, after school. We encourage the students over these two weeks to engage in these sessions and consider work hours, training and other commitments. The details of this will be available later in the term.

Throughout the two-week visit, host families would be kindly asked to provide accommodation and meals for their Nihon Daiichi students. In addition, Japanese students would travel to and from school with their host brother or sister, using an appropriate mode of transport such as a school bus, car, etc.

The Nihon Daiichi students will attend a variety of in-school programs and participate in excursions outside of the school. On weekends, students can accompany host families to regular weekend activities to allow them to experience the Australian way of family life, such as going to netball, watching soccer practice, etc.

Mrs Barrett a Year 2 Parent tells us about her family's experience being a host family:

'If you are considering hosting a Japanese student, I urge you to do it!! It’s the most wonderful experience for your child/ren and your family!! This is our third year doing it, and we can’t wait to meet them!!
 
The first year we had one student named Ikkei. Last year, we hosted two students, Hyunseok and Takumi. Unbelievable, it turns out, Ikkei and Takumi are best friends!!
 
We have formed the most incredible bond with these families!! In July, we are going to Japan, visiting Tokyo and Osaka. We are going to meet up with both of these families for a traditional lunch, which will be fabulous!!
 
The host students are very polite, respectful and eager to learn about the Australian way of life!! You become very close to the students, and they become part of your family, which is so lovely and rewarding!! Our son Ashton always asks about the students and has very fond memories of all of them!! Your heart will be so full of gratitude that you hosted a student, and your family will have a special connection to their beautiful country and culture!!'

If you are interested in hosting a student, please contact Mr Kilham. We still require 7 more families to host boys.  Students, please be aware that Jump hours are awarded for hosting as well as the opportunity for class exchanges, a reptile park visit with the Japanese students, plus a farewell party/festival during the stay. The Nihon University Daiichi Junior High School students will be visiting from Sunday, 27 July, until Sunday, 10 August 2025.

If you and your family are interested in this wonderful cross-cultural opportunity, please email me at andrew.kilham@dbb.catholic.edu.au as soon as possible.

Yours faithfully,

Andrew Kilham | Leader of Learning and Teaching Language, Japanese

First Holy Communion

With First Holy Communion just around the corner, I’d like to share Mary’s Faithful Wardrobe with the community. We offer a beautiful collection of sacramental garments that are available to borrow for your child’s special day. If you’re in need of a garment, please see the details below.

Blessings,

Lucy Marien | Parent Engagement Coordinator

The fabulous new MCC backpacks have arrived. Preordered backpacks should have been received now but there are a large number ready and waiting to be purchased from the Uniform Shop for $100. They are ergonomically designed to distribute the weight of books and laptops as well as last for the years of schooling ahead.

Following is information and a link to register for a webinar targeted to students with ADHD in Year 12. This may be beneficial to students at your schools.

Monday 21 or Thursday 29 May 7:00-8:30 pm AEST

This webinar will share insights and practical solutions for managing this critical year and beyond and making meaningful career decisions. If students cannot make it a recording will be sent to all ticket holders. Although it is interactive, students will remain anonymous on the webinar.

TOPICS COVERED

1. Redefining success- What is it to YOU?
2. Finding and owning your ADHD strengths
3. Discovering what careers are aligned to your strengths
4. Understanding the options for tertiary studies based on your interests and strengths
5. Exploring the pathway options available and ways to get there using Action Plans
6. Early Entry Considerations
7. Quick guide to Educational Access Schemes (EAS) and adjustment points
8. What is Procrastination- and how to tackle it?
9. How to deal with stress and staying calm
10. How to use technology to your advantage with ADHD
11. Q&A

There is a cost of $42.

https://events.humanitix.com/year-12-and-beyond-with-adhd-student-webinar

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                 29 October to 31 October 2025

Year 6                 7 April to 9 April 2025, completed

Year 7                 14 May to 16 May 2025, completed

Year 9                 15 - 17 September 2025 // New date

Year 10              28 July to 29 July 2025

Year 11              3 November to 5 November 2025

Tue 27 May - K-6 Family Reading and Pizza night
Fri 30 May – Year 11 Reports Released
Mon 09 Jun - King's Birthday Public Holiday
Thu 12 Jun - Year 3 Confirmation Parent Information & Enrolment meeting
Sun 22 Jun - Year 3 Confirmation Session 1
Thu 26 Jun - 2:00PM - 8:00PM Sec Parent Teacher Interview Evening
Thu 26 Jun - 3:30PM - 6:30PM Pri Parent Teacher Interviews Evening
Fri 27 Jun - 8:45AM - 3:00PM K-12 Parent Teacher Day
Sun 29 Jun - 10:00AM - 11:00AM Pri Yr 3 Confirmation Session 2
Fri 4 July - K-12 Pupil Free Day and Year 7-11 Report Released

For the most up to date information please refer to Compass