Newsletter 3 2011 ~ 10 March
Dear parents, Wednesday was a day of special significance in our Church year as it designated the beginning of the season of Lent. Ash Wednesday, as it is commonly known, commemorates the beginning of Lent and this day reminds us of our frailness in so many ways and our utter dependence on our God. Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of placing ashes on the forehead of the faithful as a way of showing repentance. Ashes were used in ancient times to express sorrow. In early days people would dress in sack cloth and cover themselves with ashes as a way of expressing sins and faults. Ashes were distributed to our students on Wednesday in house liturgies and we will focus on the season of Lent in coming weeks. As you are aware the season of Lent ends on Holy Thursday as we begin the three holy days of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Saturday leading to the great feast of Easter. Catholics are required to fast over the Lenten period and to abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The tradition in our faith is that Fridays in Lent are also seen as days of abstinence from meat and that all adults should observe the Church’s teaching on fasting throughout the season of Lent.
students have succeeded compared to students across the State. While I believe there is much more to education than the data compiled on the My School site, I do believe that it is worth reviewing as one way of gauging the effectiveness of schools and their performance on a national basis. This Sunday the St Mary’s Parents and Friends Association are hosting a welcome barbecue for our Year 7 families as a way of bringing them into our community. I thank Megan Waud and her team for working very hard to make this day such a success. I also thank the P&F executive for their generosity in making this day possible. Opportunities such as this are wonderful ways of bringing our community together and of building connections in a very busy school. I look forward to catching up with our Year 7 families on Sunday.
Year 9 students enjoying camp
I hope that you are all finding opportunities to spend just a little time caring for yourselves. Parenting is very much a fulltime job and often we forget to care for ourselves. Perhaps you should take the opportunity this weekend to find a little “me” time. You most certainly deserve it. Yours sincerely, Frank Pitt, Principal
The last few weeks have been very exciting and very busy as we have had students on camps and retreats, we have had in-school reflection days and have celebrated the success of our 2010 School Certificate candidates. In the midst of all of these events, the 2010 version of the My School website was launched on 4 March. While there is still debate about this measure, by and large it gives an indication of the progress made in a variety of areas in schools over the 2010 school year. The site gives information about NAPLAN results, financial data, comparisons with similar schools and an indication of how
Year 8 Reflection Day
Year 12 Retreat
LOVE OF GOD - LOVE OF LEARNING - HOSPITALITY - STEWARDSHIP - PEACE
From the Dean of Pastoral Care The term is now in full swing and during the past week it has been wonderful to see the girls engaging in some of the additional programs provided by the college. Enlighten Education worked with Years 8 and 10 to enable the students to understand and begin the grapple with life within a girl world and develop “girl power”. Year 8 had the opportunity for further development with these aspects during their Reflection Day on Friday. Year 9 headed out to Narrabeen and Wombaroo, where they learnt much more than one could ever achieve in a classroom. Camp provided the opportunity to develop their personal resilience, challenging themselves to achieve in ways not previously experienced. The big swing, high ropes and raft build, to name a few, were activities which were not only fun but developed the girls’ sense of capacity and ability to work as a team. When I visited Wambaroo the energy and excitement was evident. It was wonderful to hear the stories of personal achievement each had made. Year 12 spent three days at retreat, at three venues. These were very important days where the girls enjoyed time together in small groups, considering the challenges that confront them and the many masks that individuals may put on. I was fortunate to visit the Attunga site and from the moment of my arrival it was clear that this was a very special time for the girls. The evening liturgy expressed a real sense of spirituality that is wonderful to see in young women. This week Year 7 head to Vision Valley for their camp, which is sure to be a memorable experience. I am sure the girls will have a great time and take the opportunity to develop friendships with more girls within their year group. Year 8 activities
Mock Trial On 2 March at Albion Park Court House, a determined team of prosecutors had to convince the Magistrate of the guilt of the defendant, Edmund Rice College. Yes, this is what we call Mock Trial. Our case was about the robbery of an antique cuckoo clock. With great assistance from Mrs Kendell, we were very successful as we did not only win the case, but the magistrate awarded us extra points for our preparation and teamwork. Our involvement in this activity has definitely made us more welcoming and accepting to new opportunities, because now we have witnessed firsthand how fun and interesting they can be. The prosecution consisted of Alex Lark, Meg Connell, Ashley Chiaverini, Bridget Pearson, Frances Solano and Amy Scanu. Frances Solano, Year 10
Some reminders: Although the large majority of our students do the right thing, I do need to remind parents and students of a few aspects about their uniform. • Uniform length is mid-calf - a small number of girls do need to lengthen their uniforms. • Buttons on dresses and blouses must always be done up. • Jewellery is to be minimal and within the guidelines set in the Student Diary. Please be aware that inappropriate jewellery will be confiscated until the end of term. • Students are not permitted to wear makeup. Emma Magill, Dean of Pastoral Care
Year 9 at Wambaroo
From the Dean of Studies UAC has sent the college a list of University offers made to the HSC class of 2010. I am pleased to announce that 133 offers were made to our students, including places in 12 universities in a wide variety of courses. There were 100 offers made by the University of Wollongong. The offers included: Bachelor of International Studies/Business Law, Bachelor of Medical Biotechnology (Adv), Bachelor of Agriculture, Bachelor of Health Studies, Bachelor of Engineering, Bachelor of Biological Science, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Design/Fashion, Bachelor of Medicinal Chemistry, Bachelor of Science (Nuclear Science Technology), Bachelor of Medical and Health Sciences (Adv), Bachelor of Primary Education and many more. Congratulations to all these students! Gerry Sozio, Dean of Curriculum
The historic visit of English novelist DH Lawrence to Thirroul in 1922 is featured in a new, innovative theatre work to be performed March 11,12,18,19 at 8pm at the Thirroul Community Centre. Tickets are $20 and $15 (family 4 $50), booking and information from 42941695, http:// playscript.wordpress.com or Steel City Cycles Thirroul.
News from the P&F
Year 7
At the last P&F meeting the 2011 Executive was appointed. The new executive Helen Bow, Maggie Henderson, Kevin Grimmer, Megan Waud and Catherine Sutton, look forward to working with the parents and the college for our girls.
Year 7 have made a wonderful start to the new school year and are adjusting well to timetables, room changes, new teachers and new friendships. It has been lovely to witness the support and friendship they have offered each other in these early days.
Frank provided a report on the funds allocated to be spent in 2010. All of the KLA areas have spent their funds and are very grateful for the extra aids they have to assist in our daughters’ education. We hope to hear directly from a couple of staff members at the next meeting.
In Week 4 we were entertained with a wonderful performance titled The Hurting Game. This performance explored issues relating to bullying, self esteem and building positive relationships. This engaging performance created a strong awareness amongst girls about the importance of being true to themselves by being themselves and it was encouraging to hear so many positive comments.
The college Board is considering making changes to D Block, therefore the proposed undercover learning area (and bus shelter) has been postponed until a decision is made and plans are drawn.
Last Friday one lucky Year 7 class participated in the St George Illawarra Dragons season launch which involved the commencement of the Clean Up Australia campaign. The students walked along the foreshores of City Beach with some of the League stars and assisted in cleaning up the bushland and beach that is so precious to our community. This was a wonderful event that emulates the goal of our college in working together with the wider community and I commend the girls on their effort.
We have asked Frank to approach the staff for additional ideas for these funds. If any parent have suggestions as to how we can benefit from the $30,000, please let us know and we will make a decision at the next P&F meeting in Term 2. (Minutes of the last meeting can be found on the school website.) Outdoor Movie Night: Our first Outdoor Movie Night is being held on the last day of term. We hope to see many of our families attend this family-friendly event. Keep an eye out for posters at the school. Tickets will go on sale shortly.
We head off to Vision Valley this week for a three-day camp that will no doubt assist in bonding their friendships and challenge every girl to achieve and conquer something new as they participate in a broad range of outdoor activities. I look forward to sharing these stories with you at the Year 7 BBQ on Sunday 13 March here at the college. Katie Fitzgerald, Year 7 Co-ordinator
Fashion Parade: Discussions have commenced regarding the Formal Fashion Parade and expo being held on 8 June at Holy Spirit College. We will be asking for models and helpers soon. If you are a Year 12 parent and would like to be part of this special event, please contact Helen or Maggie. Year 7 Welcome BBQ is this weekend! If you haven’t sent in an RSVP and would like to attend, please let us know ASAP. Last meeting: We had a great attendance at the last meeting which resulted in very good discussions. We would like to see more parents at our meetings and promise you won’t get a job! Come and listen and participate and be a part of your daughter’s education. Helen Bow, President P&F Assoc
Café Mediterranée The College warmly invites you to a soirée of international music, good coffee and wonderful performances being held in the SGN hall on Wednesday 30 March at 7pm. Come along, have a coffee and be entertained by our LOTE students who will perform in French and Italian for you! All welcome. Please RSVP via email to Patricia.Turek@stmarys.nsw.edu.au.
Year 12 retreat The first West Wollongong Youth Mass for 2011 will be on Sunday 20 March at 5pm at St Therese Church, 2 Powell Street West Wollongong. Please join us after Mass for refreshments.
Year 7 Clean Up Australia
13 Mar 15 Mar 24 Mar 30 Mar 8 Apr
Year 7 P&F welcome BBQ 4pm in BBQ area Open Day tours 9am, 11.30am, 2pm, 4.30pm Year 12 parent/teacher interviews from 3.45pm Language evening 7pm in SGN Hall Last day Term 1
For student enquiries and notifications, please ring Student Office direct: 4226 3959
Academic competitions
Swimming Carnival
Success at the Dragon Boat Challenge
Students will shortly receive a letter inviting them to enter this year’s competitions in English, Mathematics, Science, Computing Skills and Geography. The competitions provide a valuable opportunity for students to excel in their areas of ability and provide the experience that can lead to greater success in school assessments, the School Certificate and the HSC.
The swimming carnival was held at Corrimal pool for all students in Years 7, 8 and 12 and competitors in all other years. In perfect weather conditions our Year 12s marched into the pool surrounds in a swathe of house colours and lots of singing and dancing. The seniors did a wonderful job throughout the day, encouraging the juniors with House cheers.
All entrants receive a certificate and an individual results letter for the subject they enter. The documents are suitable for inclusion in a student’s portfolio.
Congratulations to the following age champions and runners up: 12yrs Alexandra Parker and Erin Lark; 13yrs Kira Steward and Tasmin McFadden; 14yrs Bronwyn Needham and Georgia Briscoe; 15yrs Samantha Everett and Madeline Martinoski; 16yrs Madeline Franklin and Brooke Marcinkowski; 17yrs Maddison Reid and Dominique Tobin; 18yrs Lauren Hanson and Neisha Sinadinovic.
Two combined teams of 20 St Mary’s girls and 20 Edmund Rice boys competed in the Dragon Boat Challenge on Lake Illawarra last Saturday, 5 March. It was very exciting when one of the teams won the final. Everyone had a great time even though the weather turned cold and wet. I was very proud of all the students, and thank the Illawarra Dragon Boat club for training them on the previous Saturday. Thank you to Ms Emma McGill who came along to support the girls. Sue Martin
Please ensure you read the letter and return it to the college by 4 April. We look forward to your daughter’s participation in these competitions. Mary Boyle, Diverse Learning Needs Coordinator
Madeline Martinoski broke the 15yrs 100m Breast stroke in a time of 1:25.19 I thank the wonderful parents who timed events throughout the day. Thanks also to the college staff who assisted. My only disappointment for the day was that many students failed to wear hats or protect themselves from ultraviolet rays, despite constant reminders and the provision of shade and sunscreen. A list of girls selected to represent SMC at the Diocesan swimming carnival on 16 March has been posted on the Sports notice board. Good luck to all our swimmers at the next level. House points for the 2011 Carnival were: 1st Loreto 523 ~ 2nd Carmel 429 3rd Fatima 339 ~ 4th Lourdes 285points. Belinda Sparks, Sport Coordinator
2011 swimming carnival ADHD support group meeting 23 March, 7.30pm at Citylife Church, 2/129 Jardine Street, Fairy Meadow. For info call 4284 4414.
(A refund of $6 has been credited against parent accounts for the students who, as a Year group, did not attend the swimming carnival. This amount will show on next term’s fee statements. Students who did not receive a refund are competitors at the swimming carnival, and students involved in Savvy Fitness and Zumba at school that day, which incurred a cost.)
Call for exam supervision volunteers The College is seeking volunteers to assist with the supervision of exams. Grandparents are also most welcome to volunteer. Exams are held throughout the year and a roster system will be set up. If interested, please contact Mrs Natty Apolo by Friday 14 March on 4228 6011. Interested parents, guardians and grandparents will then be invited to an afternoon tea to be given further information. Gerry Sozio, Dean of Curriculum
Locked Bag 42 - Wollongong NSW 2500 - Phone 02 4228 6011 - Fax 02 4229 8555 - www.stmarys.nsw.edu.au