College Newsletter - 25 October 2024
Principal’s Report
Welcome to our first newsletter of Term 4. I hope that all College families enjoyed the recent school holiday period and students are well rested and ready for the new term. The final term of the year is a time for students to consolidate on their efforts throughout the year as they work towards their final assessments and examinations.
Timor-Leste Immersion
Over the recent school holidays, twelve students and five College staff set off to Timor-Leste on our very first immersion to the country. It was an incredible and rich experience for them with the opportunity to see a very different country and the reality of life for the people of Timor-Leste. The group learnt about the history of Timor-Leste, spent time with students at a school for the disabled, visited the new Marist school being built and along the way, met some wonderful people and shared in a remarkable experience. Please read more about the immersion later in this newsletter.
HSC Examinations
Our Year 12 students commenced their HSC examinations last week. They have been working diligently since graduating last term and have had a great start to the examinations. We are very proud of our Year 12 students who have shown great commitment over the past few months, and I ask all in our community to pray for our Year 12 students as they sit their HSC examinations over the next four weeks. I thank our Year 12 teachers for generously giving up their time during the recent school holidays to hold revision seminars leading to the HSC exams.
2025 Student Leader Induction
Last Monday our 2025 College Student Leaders were formally inducted into their new roles. The leadership induction ceremony also included the badging of all our Year 11 students as the most senior students of the College and as such, are all student leaders. During the induction ceremony I spoke about the two things I believe are vital for leadership – empathy and service. Both characteristics that were exemplified by Jesus. I also spoke about how all senior students are role models for younger students and how important it is for them to set the example by striving for excellence and always upholding the traditions and standards of our great College. Congratulations to our new student leadership team which is:
College Captain - Konstantinos Benetatos
College Vice-Captain - Ryan Morton
Lindwall Captain - Anthony Catanzariti
Gilroy Captain - Matias Soca
Cooper Captain - Harry Koralis
Gonzaga Captain - Marcus Raad
Ministry Prefects - Marcus Edwards and Elio Fornasier
Learning Prefects - Luke Martelletti and Eoin McNally
CAPA Prefects - Nathaniel Chandra and Sebastian Vanega
Wellbeing Prefects - Jayden Lim and Damien Do
Senior Retreat
The new term commenced with our annual Senior Retreat at Stanwell Tops. It was a wonderful time for students sharing time together and reflecting on the theme of servant leadership. I thank the College staff who attended the retreat and provided such a great experience for our senior students.
May God bless all staff, students and families.
Mr Simon Ghantous
College Principal
Assistant Principal’s Report
Welcome back for Term 4! I hope all families had a lovely holiday with family and friends.
Staff Development Day
A reminder that Monday, 28 October is a Staff Development Day and students do not need to attend the College. As a result, the College Tutor Program will also be unavailable on that day.
College Tutor Program
In Week 5 of this term, students in Years 7 - 10 will sit their Semester 2 Examinations and Year 11 Assessments will continue throughout the term. I would encourage all students to take advantage of the free tutoring program available Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon from 3.00 pm to 5.00 pm in the College Library. The program provides support with homework, assignments, assessment preparation, understanding of content and aspirational conversations.
I would ask parents/carers to ensure suitable arrangements are made for your son to get home after the library closes at 5.00 pm.
Work & Study/Friday College Detentions
A reminder to all students, that Work and Study Detentions (Wednesday) and College Detentions (Friday) will take place in Room 5. Any student that fails to attend either of the above-mentioned detentions, may be removed from class the next school day. Parents will be contacted, and the student will spend the day in the suspension area completing his work for each period of the day. Parents and students are notified of students' detention via Compass. If your son is unable to attend a detention, please inform the College Office.
Mobile Phone Policy
A reminder to all families regarding Mobile Phones. Students are permitted to bring mobile phones to the College, however, they are to remain off and out of sight from the time a student enters the College grounds until departure. The College does not accept responsibility for lost or damaged student mobile phones. The College reserves the right to prohibit students from bringing mobile phones into certain spaces or during certain activities, e.g. science, exam rooms, technology rooms, physical education classes etc.
Any student who uses a mobile phone will automatically receive an Assistant Principal detention.
In the event of an emergency, or should parents/carers need to contact their son during the school day, they are asked to contact the College Office who will ensure a message is passed on to your son. If a student needs to contact their parent/carer during the day, he is asked to go to the College Office to make the call.
Attendance - Not Present/Late to School
A reminder to parents, that if your son is going to be late to school or is absent from school you are required to add an Attendance Note in Compass to explain this absence/lateness. Failure to do so will result in his attendance record reflecting unexplained absences. All unexplained absences will be recorded on your son’s Semester Reports. This week, Not Present/Late to School Letters were sent home to families. Please ensure you have added an Attendance Note in Compass to explain this absence/lateness.
Attendance at College Events
Students are required to attend all College events including but not limited to, excursions, swimming carnival, athletics carnival, reflection days, retreats, camps and community days. If your son is absent on any of these days, he will require a Medical Certificate to explain his absence.
Uniform
The College has high expectations regarding uniform and grooming. Students are required to wear their full summer uniform to school. Sports Uniform is to be worn on Thursdays only. Students who wear their sports uniform any other day, will receive a uniform detention.
Students should also be reminded of the College’s regulations around hair and grooming. The College Policy on hairstyles is very clear. Any use of a blade number lower than “2” is unacceptable. All haircuts must be blended and uniform in appearance, therefore any excess style trend will not be tolerated including skin fades. Students who present with haircuts that do not comply with the College Policy may be sent home until it is rectified.
Students Not Returning in 2025
It would be appreciated if parents of students in Years 7 to 11 would inform the College if their son/s will not be returning in 2025. The College has an extensive waiting list of applicants whose parents are eager for their son to obtain a position.
Thank you for your support.
Mrs Catherine Roebuck
Assistant Principal
Religious Education Coordinator
Senior Retreat
On Wednesday to Friday of Week 1, Year 11 students attended The Tops Conference Centre at Stanwell Tops for our annual Senior Retreat. The students engaged in both spiritual and physical activities centred around the theme of Servant Leadership. Many thanks to Mr Ghantous, Mr McGufficke, and all the staff that attended the retreat. The students were outstanding in their behaviour and participation, and a great time was had by all.
2024 Immersion Program - Timor-Leste
From Friday, 27 September to Saturday, 5 October, Mr Duff, Mr Lauria, Mrs Danzey, Mr Gallagher and Mr Ziegenfusz accompanied 12 students from Years 10 and 11 to Timor-Leste on the first immersion program at MCK since 2014. They had an incredible experience immersing themselves into the Timorese culture and embracing all local customs and cultures.
From travelling to Balibo learning about the Portuguese and Indonesian occupations and the impact of this on Timor history, then to Baucau where they visited the Catholic Teachers College (ICFP), Katilosa a school for children with disabilities and the new Marist School being built in Lautem. The group immersed themselves in the many cultural sites and embraced newfound friendships.
A very special thank you to the staff for not only accompanying the boys on this trip but providing them with these incredible opportunities that allowed for a successful immersion experience. The students are grateful for your leadership and support, and you have allowed them to have memories that will last a lifetime.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to Kogarah’s Greek Orthodox Church
On Wednesday, 9 October, students from MCK’s Greek Orthodox Parish and community of Kogarah joyfully welcomed His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew during his historic visit.
The students happily participated in the festivities and gathered to meet him, to greet him, and to receive his blessing.
YMC Events
Please see Mr Ward in room 17 for further details.
Ms Lauren Abihanna
Religious Education Coordinator
Leader of Teaching and Learning
Fuelling Success: How Goal Setting and a Growth Mindset Shape Student Achievement
Welcome back to all students as we commence Term 4, a busy term that offers opportunity for fresh beginnings, renewed focus, and continuous growth. As we step into this term, it is important for students to embrace a growth mindset and seek opportunities for improvement in their learning. In weeks 5 and 6 this term, students will complete their Semester 2 assessments, offering the potential for significant personal and academic growth. Now is the perfect time to set clear, specific goals for the term ahead.
The Power of Goal Setting
Tom Sherrington, a leading educational author suggests, setting specific goals gives students a sense of direction and purpose. When students know what they are aiming for, they are more likely to stay focused and persevere. Without clear goals, it can be easy to feel lost or uncertain about what success looks like.
- Perseverance through challenges
Sherrington’s idea of setting incremental goals aligns perfectly with the growth mindset by encouraging students to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. When goals are manageable, students are more likely to persist through difficulties, understanding that improvement is achieved through effort—a key principle of the growth mindset. - Effort and progress
Sherrington's emphasis on goal setting ties directly to the belief that success is not solely about innate talent but also about consistent effort. By working towards clear goals, students can track their progress, reinforcing the idea that improvement is possible through persistence and hard work, not just natural ability. - Learning from feedback
A growth mindset encourages students to view feedback not as criticism but as a tool for improvement. Feedback provided in class tasks leading up to exams allows students to continue working towards improvement. This fosters the understanding that learning is a process that takes time and reflection.
The College community is here to support all students on their learning journey. Staff at the College and tutors in the after-school program are valuable resources, ready to provide guidance and encouragement. Students are encouraged to seek help and ask questions, as they prepare for their exams later in the term.
All students are encouraged to make this term a time for growth, perseverance, and achievement!
ATOMI
In Term 4 students in Year 11 should now have access to HSC Courses. This online platform can be used by students as a tool to engage in revision and study to support their learning. The platform offers:
- Course Content: Interactive lessons, video lectures and reading materials.
- Quizzes and assessments: tools for revision, study and self-assessment.
- Collaborative features: to enhance peer collaboration and progress tracking.
The platform is compatible with various devices and an additional engaging tool students can use to allow continuous improvement with their learning. Many students have expressed they find the platform valuable in assisting their study, and the school data of usage reinforcing the tools value. Parents are encouraged to remind students this tool is available as part of their homework routine and study.
If students are experiencing problems with this online platform, they are encouraged to see their classroom teacher or let me know.
PAT Testing
This week students in Years 7-10 completed the Reading and Numeracy Progressive Achievement Tests (PAT Testing). Parents should have received a letter outlining the dates of these tests via compass. Students next week will be completing the Science Test. There is no need for your son to undertake extra study in preparation for these tests. These are diagnostic tests, which are adaptive to student ability, and will provide the College with valuable insights into each student's areas of strengths and areas for further development. The exams in addition to other school assessments allow teachers to identify student needs, target teaching and monitor learning growth.
Please remind your sons to come to school with fully charged laptops and corded headphones on the day of these tests. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at the College.
Wishing everyone a fantastic start to the term.
Mrs Gina Stavropoulos
Leader of Teaching and Learning
Talk Money
The Years 9 and 10 Commerce and Emerging Entrepreneurs classes recently had a facilitator from Talk Money with Ecstra Foundation come and speak to them. This workshop taught them money lessons for life and aims to help students be confident when talking about money and make informed financial decisions. The students saw the ‘Making Money Work’ workshops, where they discussed different ways to make money and learnt some practical skills for navigating the world of work. Overall, it was a very informative and engaging workshop which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Mr Ryan Ziegenfusz
HSIE Teacher
Year 9 Science visit Mt Keira
Year 9 Science have been learning about ecosystems as part of their understanding of our living world. To support this learning Year 9 and their Science teachers made the trip to Mount Keira to study a rainforest environment. Students collected data on non-living parts of the ecosystem, including analysis of soil moisture and tree height. Students also caught living organisms such as spiders, worms and centipedes. It was a fantastic experience for the students and an enjoyable day out in nature.
Mrs Eugeena Pantelis
Science Teacher
Marine Masters Fishing Success
Students of Mr Stewart's year 10 Marine masters class headed out to Cronulla’s Gunnamatta Wharf for a day of fishing where they put their lessons in knot tying and fishing theory into practice. It was an overcast and blustery day as the students collected their rods and tackle and got on the bus. Conditions only worsened as it started to rain in fits and starts on the drive. But the class wouldn’t let a little rain dampen their resolve, with everyone heading out onto the wharf, eager to wet a line. In some ways we were fortunate with the weather, because it meant we had the wharf virtually to ourselves. Still, 25 people baiting up and casting out had Mr Stewart and Mr Kounnas busy fixing wind knots and untying tangles throughout the day. If anything, the rain got even worse as the morning went on, but the boys were buoyed by the nibbles they were getting and stuck it out. Being in such a sheltered bay, we had many small hook ups with baby snapper, bream and leather jacket all keen on our prawns.
One of the most surprising “hook ups” was not one, but two blue swimmer crabs - one of which was legal, and the student was keen to take home.
Now with so many lines in the water, it's not any surprise that that NSW fisheries came down to have a chat with us. It was a great opportunity to talk about responsible fishing with the students and one of the officers even shared fond memories of his own time at MCK. Students tried a variety of fishing methods with frozen bait, soft plastics and hard plastics, targeting both larger fish and squids. There was a close encounter with a “coffin shark” foul hooked down on the sand flats, however the students showed great composure and restraint, waiting for Mr Stewart to unhook it safely without being shocked.
A fishing trip wouldn’t be complete without the one that got away; this large tailor gave Marc an awesome fight on the soft plastics but managed to spit the hook just as it was about to be landed, much to Marc’s chagrin.
Overall, it was a very successful day out for Year 10. It’s one thing to talk about all the fish you’re going to catch while you’re sitting in class, it's another thing altogether when you’re reeling it in all of a sudden with half the class watching you. It will be Year 9’s turn next to see if they can beat the tally and variety that Year 10 managed to haul.
Mr Ben Stewart
Assistant Leader of Learning TAS
Leader of Student Wellbeing
School TV – The Cost of Living Crisis
In our ever-changing economic landscape, parents and caregivers are increasingly faced with the task of broaching the subject of growing expenses with their children. While the instinct may be to shield young people from life’s challenges, there's a growing belief that addressing real-world issues, including financial uncertainties, can actually foster resilience and understanding. Striking a balance between protection and education is crucial for those looking to empower their children.
To effectively introduce the topic of finances, we need to be mindful of the timing and setting of the conversation. Using straightforward, age-appropriate language helps maintain transparency, and openly discussing adjustments to the family budget can carry significant weight. By encouraging children to participate in finding creative ways to save and make thoughtful spending choices, parents can nurture a sense of responsibility.
This Special Report offers a valuable opportunity to enhance children's financial literacy, equipping them with the resilience needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
Mr Shane Duff
Leader of Student Wellbeing
Sport Report
Representative sport is underway at Marist College Kogarah for Term 4. This term we’ll be competing in OzTag, Volleyball, Cricket and All Abilities Tee Ball. Let’s see how the boys went in week one of their seasons.
Junior OzTag
The MCK Junior Oztag team had a strong start to the season beating Marist College Penshurst 9-5 in round 1. Leo Nadira stepped up as captain and organised the boys on and off the field. Man of the match was given to Filip Talevski as he made his presence on the field known while scoring three tries. The result filled the boys with confidence for the rest of the season.
Mr Chris Raptis and Mr Steven Gorscak
Coaches
Intermediate OzTag
The MCK Intermediate Oztag team got off to a flying start in round 1 against Marist College Penshurst. The boys showcased their skills with a free-flowing attack that had us lead 10-0 early in the second half. Spearheaded by Adrian Lamproglou and Alexander Borg in the middle, the boys were just as resilient in defence and managed to defend multiple sets on our line with ease. Justin Liu demonstrated lightning speed, crossing for multiple tries. The final result ended at 16-1 and acted as a good opener for the boys to work on their combinations with each other. I look forward to seeing them progress and facing the challenges of more difficult opposition in the weeks ahead!
Mr Jake Gallagher and Mr Kevin Pham
Coaches
Senior OzTag
The Senior Boys OzTag team began their season with a game against Marist College Penshurst. Without any Year 11 boys due to Senior Retreat, it would always be a tough start to the season. However, the boys put in a great performance and scores were locked at 3-3 at halftime. Penshurst took the lead early in the second half and from then on, the lead went back and forth until the final whistle, with Penshurst running out 7-6 winners. A special mention to Adam Galimi for scoring three tries and to all of the Year 10 boys for putting in such a brave effort.
Mr Ryan Ziegenfusz
Coach
Junior Volleyball
The MCK Junior volleyball team secured a solid 2-0 victory over Marist Penshurst, showcasing impressive teamwork and determination. Despite most of the players competing for the first time, they demonstrated great skill and adaptability on the court. The team’s focus and communication were key to winning both sets. This victory marks a promising start for the group as they continue to grow and improve.
Mr Paul O’Brien
Coach
Intermediate Volleyball
The Intermediate volleyball team dominated Marist Penshurst with a confident 2-0 victory, displaying a high level of skill throughout the match. Their precise serves, strong defence, and powerful spikes kept the opponents on the back foot from the start. The team’s chemistry and strategic play were evident, as they controlled the pace and flow of both sets. This win highlights the team’s advanced abilities and sets the tone for future matches.
Mr Stephen McGufficke
Coach
Senior Volleyball
With the Senior team already taking massive losses through retreat and illness, it was already an uphill battle. Thanks to the dedication of some Year 10 students, the seniors were able to face a decent Penshurst team. Although narrowly losing the 2 sets 18-21 and 16-21, the seniors are confident their season can bounce back when the full squad is present.
Mr Robert Almeida and Mrs Rebecca Davies
Coaches
Junior Cricket
A strong performance without winning from the Junior Cricket boys. Playing with only 10 players, the boys put in an excellent fielding and bowling performance, however, the opposition posted a formidable total of 3-148. This was largely due to some outstanding batting from their opener who made 99 only to be caught behind 1 short of a century. Kaiden Gallagher was the pick of the bowlers with 2-23. In response, some excellent performances from Mitchell Hosemans (47) and Fabio Di Paolo (37) saw the MCK boys finish 17 runs short at 3-131. A promising performance from the boys despite the result.
Mr James Stirton
Coach
Career Corner
Free HSC Preparation Seminars
Macquarie University
Students and Parents – Sunday, 3 November 9.30 am-12.15 pm.
Learn the secrets of success from Senior HSC markers and counsellors. Designed specifically for students and parents currently in Years 10-12, these free sessions cover a range of topics to help students achieve their best in 2024. Space is strictly limited so book a place here.
UTS
Sunday, 10 November 9.30 am-12.15 pm.
Learn the secrets of success from Senior HSC markers and counsellors. Designed specifically for students and parents currently in Years 10-12, these free sessions cover a range of topics to help students achieve their best in 2024. Space is strictly limited so book a place here.
National Careers Institute
Alternative Pathways to University
Delivered by TAFE NSW, the Tertiary Preparation Certificate (TPC) provides an academic pathway and study skills for higher education qualifications. The TPC offers an alternative to the HSC by providing students with a Tertiary Entrance Score (TES) and a Certificate IV qualification upon successful completion of the course.
In only one year of study, suitable students can achieve their Year 11 and Year 12 equivalent and receive a TES to access university. Students range in age, with many coming from a Year 10 completion at school, and others requiring a Year 12 qualification for career advancement or further study.
It’s learning done different.
Careers Newsletter
Mr Peter Fitzpatrick
Careers/VET Leader of Learning