2020 Yearbook

Mater Christi College

Cover Design

The cover artwork was created by Hayley Leach (Year 12 2020) when she was in Year 10. This work was awarded the Archbishop’s Religious Artwork Prize.

Most certainly the Mater Christi College community has demonstrated a commitment above and beyond our theme 'Let your light shine for others'. When coronavirus first featured in news reports in January, little did any of us realise just what its terrible impact would be, globally and locally. Here in Victoria, the efforts required to control its spread affected every fabric of our daily lives and while at year’s end we are recording a return to controllable case numbers (including many days at zero new cases), we remain ever alert to its potential to break out again, especially until an effective vaccine is available.

Within weeks only of commencing the school year and with friendships and secondary school processes barely secured, Year 7 students were required to stay home and continue their learning via an online program. Once over the shock of a COVID interruption to face-to-face program delivery, Year 12 students responded positively to working from home, using emails, Zoom and phones to communicate with teachers and friends alike. Other year levels experienced similar disruptions and yet, students as a whole demonstrated outstanding levels of adaptability, resilience and creativity.

Teachers and parents (many with other children or work commitments to attend to at home) accepted the challenges of this lockdown period and rose to new levels of engagement and participation, providing and supporting our remote learning programs. Regular and targeted communication strategies most truly kept our community

#togetherapart

Students returned in Term 4 and delighted immediately in the refurbished Science Labs, funded largely through the Victorian State Government Capital Grants program. Improved lighting, ventilation, air conditioning were appreciated in addition to new classroom furniture and storage options. Earlier in the year, modern lockers replaced older units and new floor coverings brightened up several common areas.

While we have each had new insights into our own capacity and levels of endurance, and may have had moments when we found ourselves wanting, as College leader it has been an awesome experience to witness so much good will, generous support and brilliant teamwork. Teachers overnight reframed operations, support staff stepped up without question as new tasks were required, parents beamed into classrooms and saw their daughter as learner in action and students stayed the course, especially those in Years 8, 9 and 10 who were offsite for the longest time. Only some of this year can be captured within this Yearbook, and yet it is with immense gratitude and pride that I acknowledge the perseverance and innovative work of the Mater Christi College Community - its leadership team, its teachers and support staff, its parents/carers and families….and above all, its students over this challenging year. We all appreciated the support from the College Board and Good Samaritan Education. My thanks to Jacinta Crocker as editor, and Simonne Licciardi for designing this publication.

For everyone, it has been an intensely challenging year. I could not be prouder in this my final year as College Principal, nor more excited about the future of the College. I am confident that it will continue to be a community which “listens with the ear of the heart”. As I sign off for this twentieth and final time on a College Yearbook, I pray that Mater Christi College will continue to be an ‘informed, compassionate, creative’ school community “where the strong have something to strive for and the weak have nothing to fear” (Rule of St Benedict).

Mary Fitz-Gerald Principal

Let your Light Shine for Others

College 1 Principal’s Welcome

Board of Governance

Deputy Principal

College Captains

Mary Fitz-Gerald Tribute

School

School

Curriculum

Domain - Arts

Art Gallery

Domain - English

Domain - HPE

Domain - Humanities

Domain - LOTE

Domain - Mathematics

Domain - Religious Education

Domain - Science

Domain - STEM

Domain - Sport

Domain - Technology

SoJuSt - Social Justice and Stewardship

Program

Commons

House Activities College Photos

Middle School Leaders

Year 11 Student Council

Year 10 Student Council

Year 7

Year 11

College Building and Facilities

College Staff

BOARD OF GOVERNANCE

Good Samaritan Education (GSE) is the collegial Public Juridic Person responsible for the ten incorporated Colleges in Australia, each retaining the distinctive spirit that connects them to the local church in which they are situated. Each College is accountable to Good Samaritan Education for its Catholic ethos and mission, embodied in the Good Samaritan Benedictine tradition and for the administration of the temporal goods assigned to it for its work. GSE has full responsibility for all matters of mission, finance and governance of all Good Samaritan schools.

From the GSE group of 15 Members, a Governing Council of seven Members is elected. Each GSE Member is also a Member of the Company for either one or two Good Samaritan schools and as such, is involved in the life of the school communities.

Here at Mater Christi College, we are blessed with the support of the following Mater Christi College Members:

Peter Nicholson - Chair to May

Rosalie Jones - Chair from May

Eileen O'Leary

Veronica Hoey sgs

Leonie Keaney - from November

Gaynor Robson-Garth - from November

Paul Kremer as Chair of Board was supported by the following:

Cherine Kenna - Company Secretary

Mary Close - Director and Deputy Chair

Philip King - Director

Steven Langford - Director

Sharnee Moore - Director

Fiona Bygraves - Director

Trudi Bons - Director

Chris Cartwright - Director from May

Amy Whitehead - Director from May

Tony Chapman - Director to May

Ex Officio

Mary Fitz-Gerald - Principal

Tatum Mitchell - Business Manager

Fiona Griffith - Business Manager

Committee Members

Tim Crowe - Development Committee

Julie Feeney - Development Committee

Collette Bond - Development Committee

Philip Thomas - Compliance and Governance Committee

Deputy Principal

“(The) Internet has contributed to certainly a new kind of communication among us…When we talk about human community, we certainly now have a tool in our hands that enables us to reach out as we never have before. It broadens our sense certainly of what community is and even of our own place in it.” Joan Chittister, OSB

We espouse Community as one of the Benedictine values creating opportunities so that everyone - students and staff- feels that they matter and that they belong. We know that this sense of connection to people and place, where we are known and appreciated for who we are is integral to our sense of self and well-being. During the time of online learning we continued this focus in a number of ways, with the intention of doing what we usually do in a different environment, in a different way but still holding uppermost our connectedness and community.

Communication was the fundamental response to our community in action. Regular updates were promptly published on our website so that our families were aware of information as we received it. Making ‘How are you going?’ phone calls to all families gave us a chance to check in with parents just as our fortnightly Pastoral check-in surveys allowed us to hear from our students and respond effectively. Parent forums were another occasion for feedback across the year levels and Mary and I very much appreciated the social aspect of these conversations alongside the insights offered. Teachers emailed and phoned parents to support students and Mary Fitz-Gerald and I sent a postcard to every student letting them know we were thinking of them.

Progress meetings, webinars and information sessions via zoom provided effective opportunities for school and home communication. We ran a Community time programme twice a week where students could choose from a range of options such as yoga, embroidery and pets on screen time or participate in year level or whole school activities such as Trivia Tuesdays and Chalk Art. In Pastoral Group sessions, students joined in in year level programs, social time and assemblies. Our Health and PE team ran a Virtual fitness Hub and continued the early morning Tuesday and Thursday running club sessions as online get togethers.

What have we learned from the challenging times and circumstances of 2020? We are further convinced that our students can be courageous and creative, adaptive and versatile. Our families have been supportive and realistic, patient and constant in spite of all sorts of other demands and challenges. Our colleagues have been inventive and collegial, forgiving and constant as we continued to deliver our regular programs and opportunities in this new and unexpected environment.

We have all been drawn into a closer consideration and then appreciation for those things in our lives that really matter, and our Mater Christi community is one of those. As you read through this Yearbook, I hope you are able to enjoy a sense of how our community worked, played and celebrated in this most different of years.

Julie Feeney Deputy Principal

Learning and Teaching

2020 has been a year of great challenge and many opportunities. When we started developing our approach to online and remote learning, our three key aims were to ensure continuity of learning, to support the wellbeing of students and staff, and to maintain connection to our community.

The shift from learning and teaching to online was one that required great skill, agility, adaptability and many, many hours of work by all teachers. Difficult decisions had to be made about curriculum and assessment, about what was essential for learning continuity and what we could let go. Teachers in practical subjects had to find new and accessible ways for students to experience learning and success. We have learnt so much from this experience about how to further develop strong learning relationships with students from a distance and how to use new and existing technologies to support learning.

Our Learning Management System, Canvas, was central to our approach to learning and teaching online. Together, Canvas and Zoom enabled us to stay connected and ensure clear communication about learning intentions, activities and assessment. Before long we were using these tools and a whole range of others to engage students in learning activities and provide regular, timely feedback about progress. In the midst of this, we managed to tap into new opportunities and students were able to connect with and learn from experts at organisations such as The University of Melbourne, Young Change Agents, Melbourne Zoo and Yarra Ranges Tech School. The willingness of all teachers to adapt to these significant changes, seek out new and exciting opportunities, and to listen to and respond to student feedback about their learning experience, has been nothing short of astounding.

It’s difficult to express just how proud we are of our students and their 'can-do' attitude in the face of extended periods away from their teachers, classmates, friends and the extracurricular activities they so enjoy. Time and time again they rose to the challenges of online and remote learning and showed themselves to be learners who are knowledgeable, principled, open-minded, caring, willing to take risks, balanced and reflective - learners who have the skills to advocate for and manage their own learning.

None of this would have been achievable without the strong partnerships and collaboration between staff, students and parents. The relationship between home and school has never been so important as we’ve worked together to support student learning and wellbeing. Our hope is that we can continue to build upon these relationships to shape how we engage with parents in the future to continue to support and improve student learning outcomes.

Our undertaking for 2021 is to build back better, for all of us to apply our new learning to the classroom context, to reimagine contemporary learning and teaching practices, to engage in conversation with our communities about what learning could and should look like. A big challenge, but if 2020 has taught us anything, it’s the power of collaboration and community in the face of adversity.

Collette Bond Director of Curriculum

As we reflect on our College theme this year, ‘Let your light shine for others’ we applaud the inspiring and resilient actions of our Year 12 cohort. A challenging year at best, COVID-19 has reshaped our experience as Year 12 students but has encouraged us all to focus on the silver linings within what initially might have been perceived as a setback. The College theme encapsulates a notion that has been crucial this year; spread positivity for others who may need it, thus allowing one to embrace their true talents and letting their light shine.

As Year 12’s we began the year with a celebration of the journey we were soon to embark on. The Formal was a fantastic albeit busy night, with lots of preparation in anticipation of the evening. We were extremely thankful that we were lucky enough to enjoy the night with our friends, partners and teachers before the transition into online learning. This new type of learning has initially been a challenge for many students; however, we feel that it is preparing us for future styles of education and work, ultimately improving our ability to adapt to change. We experienced our last Mater Day this year in a new format; this meant an online liturgy where students were able to join together in prayer through their screens. Some students brought a candle and even a pet or two along to share the experience. This also meant a new way to showcase the House Performing Arts Competition, where students were able to submit videos displaying their talents, such as dancing, singing and even acting! Some amazing Year 12’s won well-deserved podium places. It was enjoyable to watch students embrace their confidence and truly use their talents to shine a light on a very different Mater Day to those we had had before.

Year 12 Reflection Day consisted of checking the letterbox many times in anticipation for our care packages to arrive. These included small affirmations from other students in our year level, funny memes that made us laugh and mindfulness activities handpicked for us by our College Chaplin, Mrs Evans. These care packages were a physical representation of the Mater spirit and were a helpful reminder to share compassion, kindness and faith with others who may be struggling during these unprecedented times. Presenter, Gen Bryant was another highlight for many students during Reflection Day. Gen led us through many curated interactive reflections and sang our favourite Mass song, ‘Send Us Out’. It was amusing to picture a whole year level of girls singing and clapping along at home, and it certainly reminded us that while we may be physically separated, we are still connected.

This year has been very different from the one we predicted. But as we reflect on the school theme that has guided us throughout this year, we know that caring and supporting others has been essential in getting through our final year. We are confident this adventure has taught us to become stronger and more capable women, ready to embrace the future and flourish in anything that comes next.

Lillie Park Jenkinson and India Griffiths

Mary Fitz-Gerald College Principal 2001 – 2020

Following are edited extracts from three contributions to 'Let your light shine for others', a tribute publication acknowledging 20 years of outstanding leadership of Mater Christi College by Mary Fitz-Gerald.

As I reflect on Mary Fitz-Gerald’s fine qualities and gifts I think of a feminine image of the Good Samaritan on a very modern-day mountain ‘Jericho’ road responding to the needs of the College community with genuine hospitality and compassion.

Mary is a true Benedictine woman who has epitomised values of peace, stability and perseverance in creating the inclusive, welcoming and vibrant learning community that Mater Christi is today. She regularly acknowledges through her writing and teaching the guidance offered by St Benedict. She believes that his advice to ‘arrange everything so that the strong have something to yearn for and the weak nothing to run from’ provides a daily challenge for all at Mater Christi.

Mary is strong in holding Mater Christi’s ancestral story and at the same time looking to the future. She has a deep respect for the legacy of the Good Sams. She often speaks with great admiration for Sr Mary Ronayne’s humility and courage in sharing her prophetic vision and wisdom.

Mater Christi staff are encouraged by Mary, a natural mentor, to take up their leadership roles with confidence and with her implicit trust in their professional skills and initiatives.

Mary is a woman of great strength, integrity and courage. She can always name the heart of a matter in truth and with pastoral concern and respect for the wellbeing of individuals whether they be Good Sam Sisters, board members, staff, students or families. She also has a wonderful sense of humour and can hold things lightly even at those times that I know she found very challenging.

Mary’s vision for education in a contemporary and challenging world, her deep commitment to her pastoral responsibility, and leadership through nurturing her own spirit in the Benedictine tradition and Good Samaritan story, will be her legacy.

Mary is a true leader in the Benedictine tradition as servant…visionary…with a discerning spirit and faithful to Mater Christi’s Motto: Informed…Compassionate…Creative Veronica Hoey sgs

Of all Mary’s wonderful qualities, the first that comes to mind is her energy, a very important, perhaps underrated, trait in a leader. Regardless of the time or day, whether presenting ideas and information to staff, or in smaller meetings in her office, across a spectrum of daily encounters both formal and informal, Mary projects boundless energy. She never looks tired or indicates that she is. Mary has energy to do things, to think things, to speak of what needs to be spoken to, and to read the plethora of documents, letters, memos and submissions which cross her desk on a daily basis. Projecting this energy is infectious and motivating to all at the College. Mary is the most innovative of Principals. She is always exploring new ways of organising the school or exploring new and better teaching and learning facilities and materials. During my time at the College, a complete transformation occurred, especially with the expansion of teaching areas. There was an IT revolution at Mater Christi during Mary’s time and this is certainly an area she ‘drives’ with tremendous enthusiasm. Indeed few schools can match Mater Christi in this area.

Mary has faith in abundance! Faith in the Benedictine tradition and the College Mission Statement; faith in her staff whom she trusts implicitly to ‘deliver’ good teaching; faith in the students whom she challenges to believe in themselves and in their capacity to make a difference; and, finally, faith in herself - she is very conscious of the importance of her role as leader and possesses the self-confidence which all good leaders need to have.

As a person, Mary is both humble and approachable. She enjoys a laugh, even at her own expense sometimes. She is unpretentious and mixes comfortably with both teachers and parents. She can be assertive when required but never intimidating. Teachers like Mary and align themselves with her values and work ethic, always with the one overarching aim, namely to provide the best possible education for every Mater Christi student.

Peter Cahill Former Mater Christi College Teacher

In between the extraordinary bookends of 9/11 and a global pandemic lies an amazing 20-year leadership journey tempered by events outside and inside the College. The changing Australian political landscape; crisis in humanity man-made and natural; social change and cultural shifts are never overlooked at staff morning briefings or in countless, well-crafted speeches delivered to students at assemblies.

Within the microcosm of the College so much also happened - a massive shift through the introduction of an International Baccalaureate Curriculum for the Middle Years, a major restructuring of Good Samaritan Education and school governance, huge investments in technology to enhance student learning, restructuring of College leadership teams, a rethinking of the pastoral program, binding learning and well-being, managing course changes or staffing while balancing the increasingly pluralist nature of the College’s demography with the spiritual needs of upholding Catholic identity and Christian values filtered through the Benedictine tradition.

Mary’s journey has been pursued with courage and unflinching conviction. Making change and going beyond the boundaries of the dominant paradigm requires both courage and a degree of calculated risk. There are risks involved when you turn curriculum on its head, when you gradually eliminate all but the most essential text books, when you take away students’ diaries, when you allow two ear piercings instead of one, when you make subtle changes to school uniform, when you festoon the façade of the school with a banner in support of the plight of refugee children in detention, when you do your utmost to support the careers of young mothers as they juggle motherhood and return to career, when you make sure that in this institution there is no such thing as a glass ceiling, when you acknowledge that staff are equally many and varied, in values, lifestyles and beliefs or when you encourage students to stand up publicly for what is right. Some risks cause large waves others barely a ripple. Both require great skill to negotiate and stay the course.

Mary’s courage and unflinching conviction is underpinned by the humanity to understand and nurture the many lives that make up the fabric of the College. Mary’s ability to weave everything cohesively is what gives Mater Christi its much-lauded position as a place of welcome, of innovative and accessible learning and care for all levels of the human condition. All of that can only stem from its driving force and the ability to foster a shared vision and a recognition of common goals

Con Sarris Mater Christi College Teacher

COLLEGE LEADERS

SRC Executive 2020

College

Arts Captain Millie Metcalfe

Chisholm House Captains Cassidy Ede Stephanie Williams

Faith and Avreet Sandu

Social Justice Captains Chelsea Carlyon Louise Punterere

Gibbons House Captains Maddison Davis Gabrielle Sard

International Captains Victoria Chi Shirley Shen

Lyons House Captains Ella Liebler Jade Smith

MacKillop House Captains Jessica Chapman Morgan Godfrey

Sports Captains Jennifer Sahely Hannah Hodges

STEM Captain Shivangi Palliyil

Middle

Year 9

Charli Hart Alisha McGaffin

Year 10 Siann Thomas Sienna Reeves

Captains Lillie Park Jenkinson India Griffiths

School Captains Charli Hart Alisha McGaffin

Middle School Leadership Team

Middle School Captains Charli Hart Alisha McGaffin

Arts Captains Raquel Pospischil Emily Tyquin

Chisholm House Captains Ally Smart Tess Grandia

Faith and Liturgy Captains Kiara D’Sylva Piper Wilson

Gibbons House Captains Ashleigh Thomson Vanessa Bateman

Lyons House Captains Charli Gardiner Danielle Cooke

MacKillop House Captains Ava Zidek Charli Petersen

Social Justice and Sarah MacDonald

Stewardship Captains Hannah Koolstra

Sports Captains Sami Lane Jemma Mason

STEM Captains Simone Martin Alicia Petersen

Student Council

Year 10

Jasmine Andrews

Lily Calvert

Sienna Cross

Matilda McDermott

Sienna Reeves

Siann Thomas

Brianna Wilcox Madison Zapanta

Pastoral Group Representatives

Year 7

Lindhuni Abeykoon

Prachee Adeshara

Hannah Dickason

Layla Gould

Charlie Hyndman

Sophie Merlino

Mira Mylrea Tanvi Patel Claire Pierce Jessica Smith

Year 8

Disha Adeshara

Phoebe Andrews

Cartier Bendix

Audrey Gearon

Elida Licciardi

Milla Macallan

Jen MacDonald

Laura McPeake

Gemma Przychodzki

2019 Awards Presented in 2020

College Dux

Jessica Taffe

VCAL Dux

Monique Bast

ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award

The ADF Long Tan Youth Leadership and Teamwork Award recognises a student in Year 12 who demonstrates leadership and teamwork within both the school and the broader community and who displays strong values (such as doing one’s best, respect for others and “mateship”) that are integral to Australian society.

Monique Bast

Caltex Best All-Rounder Award

Awarded to a Year 12 student who has excelled across a number of areas including scholastic achievements, sport, community work, conduct and leadership.

Mieke Florisson

Hannah Kinross Social Justice Award

In memory of Hannah Kinross (1986 - 2009), student at Mater Christi College from 1999 - 2004 who displayed a strong commitment to social justice both in Australia and overseas.

Olivia Koolstra

Jane Austen Award for Excellence in English Literature

Cara Belvedere-Bain

Astrid Renehan Excellence in Chemistry

Zoe Kouris

Principal’s Technology Award

Vanessa Mackey

Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars Program

This award is presented on behalf of the University of Melbourne and recognises academic performance as well as leadership potential.

Emma Gerber

AWARDS

Rebecca Jago Outdoor Education and Environment Award

Rebecca Jago (1992 - 2011) was a Mater Christi College student 2005 - 2010. Rebecca was an enthusiastic participant in all sporting activities, relished her role as a team member and actively encouraged fair play and enjoyment. Choosing Outdoor Education as a VCE subject allowed Rebecca to pursue her love of the natural world and appreciate opportunities to be with friends in wonderful places.

Jessica Dunning

Rotary Outstanding Citizen Award

Inaugurated in 1989, this annual award is presented to a student from any Year level, judged by staff to be an outstanding school citizen in that year.

Jasmine Andrews

90+ ATAR

Jessica Taffe

Kirsten Andrich

Georgia Robinson

Zoe Kouris

Sera Long

Charlotte Buckingham Brown Chioma Anyadoro

40+ Study Score Year 12

Kirsten Andrich

Chioma Anyadoro

Meg Bottone

Charlotte Buckingham Brown

Fleur de Wit

Ari Dousset

Mieke Florisson

Ruby Fransen Talisha Iacuone Lucinda Issell Dana Kontra

Zoe Kouris

Sera Long Georgia Robinson Jessica Taffe

40+ Study Score Year 11

Tessa Bygraves

Jessica Cunnington

India Griffiths

Gabriella Macfarlane

Lillie Park Jenkinson

Louise Punturere Brianna Smith Bridget Vardy-Willsher Emily White

VCE Season of Excellence

Nominated for Top Designs

Vanessa Mackey

Highlights from the Class of 2019

The College’s High Achievers Assembly held on 12 February 2019, acknowledged and offered congratulations to many of the Year 12 students of 2018. A selection of those students and their future pathways include:

Jessica Taffe, Dux of the College, achieved an ATAR of 98.1 with a perfect score in Business Management 50 and scores of Further Mathematics 43, English Language 41, Chemistry 32 and Mathematical Methods 32. Jessica was offered a place to study Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne.

VCAL High Achiever of 2019 was Monique Bast Monique was also presented with the ADF Long Tan Award which recognises leadership and teamwork within both the school and the broader community.

Top International Student, Anri Kim received an offer to study Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne.

Kirsten Andrich, who attained an ATAR of 96.65, was offered a place in Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) at Monash University.

Georgia Robinson achieved an ATAR of 96.15 and received an offer to study Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) at Swinburne University.

Zoe Kouris, with an ATAR of 96.1, received an offer to study Bachelor of Pharmacy Honours/Master of Pharmacy at Monash University. Zoe was also the recipient of the Astrid Renehan Chemistry Prize, attaining a study score of 38 for Chemistry.

Sera Long achieved an ATAR of 94 and an offer to study Bachelor of Arts at the University of Melbourne.

Charlotte Buckingham Brown achieved a 92.8 ATAR and received an offer to study Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at Deakin University.

Chioma Anyadoro achieved an ATAR of 91.6 and received an offer to study Bachelor of Global Studies at Monash University.

Vanessa Mackey was nominated for Top Designs in VCE Season of Excellence. Vanessa was also the recipient of the Principal’s 2019 Technology Award.

2019 Academic Results

Year 12

2020 has been a different but impressive final year for the class of 2020. The Year 12 students have been able to show resilience, determination and strength in ways they may not have known possible.

The year started with a Welcome Night which provided an opportunity for the students to catch up with each other and prepare for the year ahead before introducing their parents to their Pastoral Group Teachers. We were lucky enough to be joined once again by Dr Michael Carr-Gregg who provided an engaging presentation on how to Survive Year 12. The presentation provided students and parents with tips and tricks to help our Year 12s make the most of their year and achieve their personal best.

Another highlight of the year was the Formal, which was held at The Lincoln on Toorak. The Year 12 class spent the afternoon at hair and makeup appointments and getting glammed up for the night ahead. The Formal Committee worked hard to organise an event to remember and they certainly delivered with an amazing flower wall for photos, great entertainment from the MC’s and a fabulous dance floor.

Reflection Day was done a bit differently this year as it was held over Zoom but nonetheless was an incredible opportunity for the students to bond, be present and grateful and really think about how far they have come not only this year but since they started their journey at Mater Christi College. Prior to the day, students were delivered a package with affirmations from their peers, a letter from Shae Mayes - Head of Senior School and the Year 12 Year Learning Co-ordinators and a few goodies to remind them how well they were doing. Genevieve Bryant joined the day and provided some great tips about staying true to yourself and being the change, you want to see in your world.

The year has been full of surprises and excitement. It has been a pleasure to watch the year level adapt and grow through it all. It is sad to be parting ways, but we know that whatever is to come for this group will be nothing short of amazing.

Tara Baker and Grace Dillon Year 12 Year Learning Coordinators

Vocational Education and Training

(VET)

VET continues to be a popular choice for many of our students. With the publication of GO VET, developed by the VCAA and providing advertising materials for Victorian schools, it has encouraged more students to consider a vocational subject. A VET course can be studied within a VCE (Victorian Certificate of Education or VCAL (Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning) program and provides nationally accredited qualifications.

This year, students at Mater Christi College have studied VET in vocations such as Animal Studies, Allied Health, Early Childhood and Care, Beauty Services, Equine Studies, Hospitality, Horticulture and creative industries.

Whether the student was enrolled in Hospitality at Mater Christi College or through another TAFE provider, all have had to adapt to an online learning platform. Through zoom classes, breakout rooms, virtual role plays, the students have continued their studies to meet the requirements of the certificate they enrolled in. At Mater Christi, the Hospitality students came up with a novel idea of running a delivery service called Mater Eats allowing the class to meet necessary competencies within the program.

VCAL 2020

Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) is an alternative graduation pathway. VCAL offers students the opportunity to create community-based projects, of their choosing, to meet outcomes within the program, so every year diverse programs are offered.

Through zoom classes we had Industry professionals deliver courses such as Certificate II in Public Safety, sessions with the Commonwealth Bank called Start Smart on investing and saving and worked with Yarra Ranges Tech School on a project called The Bees with Backpacks.

Many of our senior students were enrolled in a school-based apprenticeship and traineeship. Placements began in Term 1 and classes continued online with placements being replaced with professional learning activities. This was an opportunity for students to gain further knowledge within their field of study.

VCAL in 2020 although delivered very differently has still provided the students with a variety of learning opportunities.

Sara Mugridge VET and Pathways Coordinator

Emily Cantwell

Emma Carlin

Chelsea Carlyon

Jessica Casey

Shivani Adeshara

Lauren Baker

Beverleigh Brown

Vidhi Adeshara

Keeley Bakes

Madelyn Brown

Shivon Alley

Chanice Bourbon

Anna Bullock

Kirily Ashford

Milly Bradley

Tessa Bygraves

Yawei Chi Chi

Shreya D'Cruz

Madison Church

Claudia Dabb

Stephanie Cooke

Mira Dale

Jessica Cunnington

Qianqian Dong

Casey Donner

Yeurou Feng

Isabelle Dowell

Lucy Fenton

Madison Embury

Alycia Fisher

HongLing Fan

Annie Fitzgerald

Arianna Forman

Amelyn Gilbert

Zoe Haritos

Holly Johnson

Rhianna George

Emily Goldman

Annika Harman

Taraneh Kamari

Chantelle Gerard

Chloe Grandia

Tess Hayman

Kashish Kashish

Savanna Germano

India Griffiths

Shania Hennequin

Rhomony Kennedy

Molly King

Gabriella Macfarlane

Grace Mardy

Carly Miller

Tanisha Kremer

Vanessa Mackey

Laura Marotti

Molly Milne

Hayley Leach

Kira Mackrill

Gemma Masterson

Alana Myatt

Siju Li Li Hayley Mafrici

Amelia Metcalfe

Sarah Nash

Lillie Park Jenkinson

Jasmine Ray

Avreet Sandhu

Molly Paton

Illyah Reid

Yao Shen Shen

Sarah Prass

Dakota Rendell Burns

Ainsley Smith

Louise Punturere

Sophie Ryan

Brianna Smith

Maeve Nixon

Kathleen O'Mahony

Jaime O'Sullivan

Shivangi Palliyil

Bailey Sykes

Jamee Uren

Emily White

Isabella Thomas

Zarli Vandenberg

Grace Wilhelm

Laura Thomas

Bridget Vardy-Willsher

Madelyn Wilson

Sofie Thomas

Mary Westneat

Jordyn Yeoman

Amanjit Sondhu

Ruby Southam

Madeline Steele

Stephanie Stoitsis

Dawt Zaitu

Year 11

This year was the year in which 'remote possibility' took on a new meaning for the Year 11 students and teachers of Mater Christi College. Rather than the term having negative connotations and meaning ‘little or no chance’, the school community, including the Year 11 students and teachers, turned this phrase into a positive one. The upending of norms of learning which we have lived with over the years was met head on with determination, good humour, creativity and pragmatism.

The Year 11 cohort of 2020 have demonstrated the qualities which we, as a school and a wider community, wish to see in our young people - they have shown themselves to be informed, compassionate and creative. As they have faced the pressures, challenges and opportunities presented to them this year the students have grown and developed individually and as a group. They are a group of young women who put the Good Samaritan values of care for neighbour into action in their support for each other and their engagement with the wider school community and, for many, the broader community.

Of note this year, has been the leadership displayed by many Year 11 students within the school community. This has taken place both formally and informally. Informally through the support which many have offered to each other, to younger members of the community and even to staff in dealing with the many challenges which unfolded throughout the year (be they epidemiological, technological and even meteorological), and formally through the efforts of several Year 11 students in positions of school leadership, including those of ‘House Captain’. This was a new role for Year 11 students and those who undertook it exemplified this year's College theme of ‘letting their light shine for others’.

The leadership and personal capabilities of the students also shone through in the speeches presented for leader ship positions in 2021. Rarely have I seen such a broad and consistently excellent presentation of ideals, values and hope for the future.

At times throughout this year, particularly prior to year level assemblies, I put out a call to teachers for the names of students who they believed deserved public acknowledgement for their efforts and willingness to help others and themselves. I found myself being presented not only with a broad range of names but also requests for entire classes to be congratulated for their efforts and their qualities as learners and as people. To me this exemplifies the source of my pride in both these young people and their teachers.

James Bakker Year 11 Learning Coordinator

Year 10

2020 began by officially welcoming the Year 10’s into the Senior school. Wearing their new senior school jumpers proudly on the first day back all Year 10 students returned to school with smiles on their faces and excitement for the year ahead. We started with an assembly where students were presented with their Senior school badges, introduced to Pastoral teachers and set their goals for the remainder of the term. They were also presented with effort and achievements awards attained from 2019.

This was the first year that Year 10 students have been as 'big sisters' to the new Year 7 'little sisters'. With much excitement students were introduced and spent the afternoon completing the year’s first Big Sister, Little Sister activity. Each pair got to know each other and created a unique handshake to represent their sisterhood. They then moved into Houses and were given a theme to create a newspaper outfit. We finished the day with a fun filled fashion parade of all the newspaper outfits including wedding dresses, astronauts, Jungle animals and Sea creatures. Throughout the year, there were other Big Sister, Little Sister activites, including House Chalk Art, The Amazing Race and letter writing over the lockdown period.

In early February, Year 10 students participated in a Transition day. The aim of the day was to introduce students to the roles and responsibilities of senior school and teach them study skills and habits to help them achieve their best. The day began with a presentation from Mr Kadar about planning and time management skills. A panel of ex Mater Christi students came to share their expertise and answer questions. The students then spent the afternoon with their Pastoral teacher creating study timetables and getting organised for the program ahead.

Throughout the year the Year 10 students participated in a range of Pastoral games to promote connections. Round one included a range of 'minute-to-win-it' style games and the winners enjoyed a delicious lunch as a prize for their efforts. Round 2 included music and movie quizzes, a talent quest and a physical challenge. The participation and effort from students was great to see.

Year 10 students were joined by Fr Rob Galea via Zoom for their Reflection Day. Students were invited to further unpack the College Theme, 'Let your light shine for others' through Fr Rob’s experience of music and ministry.

Year 10’s finished the year with a leadership formation day where they explored what it takes to be a good leader and worked on improving their potential as leaders within Mater Christi College and the wider community.

Congratulations to Year 10 on their successes and taking up the opportunities that challenged them to improve and develop their skills and knowledge. Many thanks to the dedicated Year 10 Council for their leadership organisation and enthusiastic ideas throughout the year.

Melinda Lovat Year 10 Learning Coordinator

Year 9

Year 9 students have had a successful year completing our engaging and innovative Discover program. Students embraced the dynamic nature of the program through Adventure, Communication, Challenge, Identity and Expression units, in conjunction with their core subjects. Discover gave them the opportunity to be immersed in project-based learning and develop future proof skills such as critical-thinking, collaboration, self-management, research and thinking skills.

Below are some insights from the studentsAdventure provided me with a knowledge of Geography, a subject which I was completely new to, but was interesting all the same. I learnt at camp to never stop discovering what I am capable of, as opposed to simply ‘try everything’ (which I have heard so many times). Hiking, rock climbing and abseiling, who knew I would be able to do them all? It was during these four days that I confronted my ‘weaknesses’, accepted them, and got to know myself better, emotionally.

Chloe Telling

By the end of the Identity rotation, we had a pure understanding of the significance of Australia’s longlasting history and demonstrated this knowledge through producing a fun video which intended to persuade our class to vote for us as ‘Prime Minister’. Overall, I enjoyed Identity as it both challenged and broadened my understanding of Australian culture.

Alisha McGaffin

I liked communication as I enjoy doing research tasks and writing reports and articles. Communication taught me the best ways to research and get relevant information. I enjoyed the independence of the rotation because we got to work at our own pace.

Keiley Crook

During

Jess Pacevski

The Challenge rotation gave me many new and enjoyable experiences in the STEM subjects. For the major assessment I chose to build a robot and program it to detect fire hazard areas. As I had never built a robot before, it created a new memory that I will never forget.

Simone Martin

During Semester 2, the Middle School Captains began publishing a newsletter providing an update on activities in Year 9, as well as key reminders. It was also an opportunity to acknowledge birthdays and share study tips, exercise and meditation ideas, as well as some laughs.

Reflection Day was a great opportunity to hear from passionate Indigenous activist Scott Darlow. He shared his thought-provoking insights about his Indigenous culture, racial tolerance, harmony and important social matters through song and with humour. Students also created a stained-glass window representing this year’s College theme 'Let your light shine for others' and wrote Christmas messages to the remote community of Santa Teresa in the Northern Territory.

Amanda Morris and Eliza Fildes Year 9 Learning Coordinators

Expression I really enjoyed Food Technology because I love cooking, I also enjoyed working on a project that required a lot of creativity. I liked the balance between creativity and physical activity.

Year 8

As the Year Level Coordinator, it has been a delight to watch the Year 8 cohort welcome the many opportunities presented to them this year. It has enabled them to grow and engage as young leaders and learners. Year 8’s have readily participated as ambassadors for the College as Student Service helpers, tour guides and in school events such as sporting teams and reaching out to our Good Samaritan Ministries across the world.

Margherita Magagna Year 8 Learning Coordinator

Below are a few insights from the Pastoral Group Representatives about their Year 8 experience.

In Drama we studied the topic of melodrama, watching one of two modern melodrama films, both following the plot of Cinderella. We then critiqued the movie we watched, to identify how the classic melodrama roles were portrayed. While in English, we read the heart-breaking novel Goodnight Mr Tom about the protagonist William Beeches. Set in World War II Britain the novel addresses issues of community, integration and the deep connection that one person can have on a life.

Elida Licciardi, Milla Macallan and Phoebe Andrews

Pastoral sessions were a great way for our teachers to connect and check in with us. We also completed a variety of different activities including a visit from Elevate Educate who helped us adopt new study, note-taking and homework skills. Mindfulness, RUOK Day, meditation, relationships and Cybersafety, career planning are some wellbeing aspects of the Pastoral program activities we focussed on this year.

Gemma Przychodzki and Cartier Bendix

On Year 8 Reflection Day we expressed our gratitude for what we take for granted on a daily basis. We recognised that many people around the world don’t have certain luxuries that we do. We listed things that we are grateful for which opened our minds and hearts to give thanks for even the little things. We heard from Ms Costello about her trip to Bacolod, in the Philippines and what an inspirational difference the Good Samaritan Sisters are making there. As an expression of gratitude, we wrote cards and letters of appreciation to send to them.

Jen MacDonald and Audrey Gearon

Medieval day was an opportunity for us to get a taste of what life was like in the Middle Ages while using the resources we had at home. There were a range of activities including cooking Norman cakes to English pies, building forts and medieval weapons, or designing a costume or illumination or even performing a sonnet or play. We were able to participate and even compete for prizes in each category. It made for a thrilling and exciting day with friends and family.

Disha Adeshara and Laura McPeake

Year 7

Year 7 is a critical year for students as they transition from Primary school to High school. As educators we continually strive to find the balance between the vital tools for success at school and a program that provides enough opportunity to ensure students are engaged with building new relationships and connecting with others.

Semester 1 highlighted this balance with an array of opportunities for students to strive academically and socially. The transition program launched them into the Middle Years Program (MYP), learning about important elements such as the Global Context, the Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning Skills. The students successfully handled this new understanding as well as learning and thriving on a new device with all new programs. Socially there have been many activities for the students to flourish. These activities include a pool excursion, Middle School Swimming Carnival, Big Sister and Little Sister activities, Reflection Day and House Chalk Art.

In the second half of the year, the students are to be commended on their resilience and persistence. They have demonstrated the ability to solve problems creatively and have highlighted the school theme 'Let your light shine for others' by supporting not only those within our school, but the wider community. During this time, the standard of work continued to become increasingly better with a number of students demonstrating excellence.

The Pastoral Program provided students with the framework to build some of the necessary skills and tools to manage their own wellbeing in a variety of situations such as dealing with problems; living harmoniously with others; managing their emotional state when things get tough; assessing and taking calculated risks; recognising the needs and defending the rights of others; remaining true to themselves; knowing when to turn the other cheek; reflecting on their actions; praying; knowing when to lead and when to follow with grace and to work towards being part of and contributing to a better world.

In addition, we guide and assist the Year 7 students to begin their plans for their careers through the Career Pathways Program. Students participated in careerdriven activities and were able to connect with our Careers Coordinator. With many new skills and a vision for their future, Year 7 students are ready for Year 8.

Vicki Godfrey Year 7 Learning Coordinator

Curriculum

It is well known that Inspiration awakens us to new possibilities and that the arts have long sought out stimulus from a range of places. However, it is safe to say that the natural world and our beautiful settings here in Belgrave have been a keen source of inspiration this year. How lucky we are! For a number of students from right across the school we have seen so many divine photos in a range of competitions and classes.

In addition to this, students made recycled art, and industriously created face marks for all. They transformed from being instructed learners to seek out, adapting and developing their own aspirations within the arts. Many have demonstrated a burning to explore new methodologies and patiently worked through fostering these skills. It has been a delight to watch many follow their own objectives and set personal goals. In senior art a number of students have relished the challenge of portraiture. While the Senior Visual Communication students set about to satisfy a variety of client briefs, some being architectural and others communication design such as new uniforms, web design and advertising. Our Year 10 students have specialised in the study of flora and leant drawing techniques and mandala designs, finishing with a personal project inspired by Catholic theology. Year 8 students started with landscapes and then created oversized self-portraits and Year 7 used waste to create 3d monsters and creatures before completing a unit on printmaking.

In Performing Arts, students were busy creating, performing, analysing and reflecting. The new subject of Performing Arts at Year 7 combining the focusses of dance and drama was met with energy and enthusiasm by students. Performances of dramatic fractured fairy tales and narrative group dances were a highlight along with the mini monologue film task ‘Sam Shovel’. Year 10 Dance and Drama produced original performance pieces expressing chosen intentions drawing inspiration from the world around us. Skills were developed online and in class and brought to fruition at the end of the semester. The VCE Dance students engaged in choreography of their own dance works while also learning from a professional choreographer (alumni Ruby Winters) where they developed Jazz technique in the group dance ‘Too Darn Hot’.

In finishing, the light has shone brightly for the arts this year, providing time, inspiration and perseverance while watching these students create their own florescence.

Caroline Wareham Arts Domain Leader

Molly Paton

Anastasia Armitage

Oriane Cleary

ORIANE

Oriane Cleary

Matilda Hore

Hannah Hodges

Jessica Silva

Milly Bradley

Indigo Thomson

Amelia Anderson

Jessie Thomas

Maddy Court

Rhomony Kennedy

Gabrielle Blewer

Maddy Court

Gosia Piosicka

Disha Adeshara

Jade Hendy

Isabella Thomas

Hannah Hodges

Our College Theme, ‘Let your light shine for others’ has been a continued source of inspiration for our team and has been particularly relevant to 2020. The English Domain continued to work collaboratively to meet the ever-changing demands of the year, adapting programs in recognition of student feedback and best practices. Overall, there was an emphasis on paring back assessment tasks, and going deeper into the structure of longer written responses. Student responses affirmed these decisions, with many reporting greater confidence in writing essays and a real sense of achievement in completing these challenging tasks.

Our focus on promoting literacy and a love of reading has guided our programs throughout the year for Middle School students. Year 7’s were once again engaged and challenged by our Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) competition, with our top ten readers recording over one thousand minutes of reading per week - an admirable effort! In addition, a highlight of the year has been the Year 8 ‘Slam Poetry’ unit which provided the cohort with a unique means of asserting their opinions and illuminating personal growth. At the Year 9 level, the Holocaust unit was highly engaging. Students were inspired to complete wider reading associated with the topic, and the creative writing which followed demonstrated insight and empathy.

The Senior School English classes were an opportunity for teachers to shine a light on how news is reported as well as draw parallels between schoolwork and current events. At the Year 10 level, the study of Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird provided a thought-provoking point of comparison with the growing Black Lives Matter movement. Our theme this year implies that it is imperative to be visible, and numerous Year 11 English as well as Additional Language students took up this challenge in their passionate persuasive speeches on issues such as travel restrictions and the wearing of masks. In a similar fashion, the VCAL class’ thoughtful ‘Letters Against Iso’ to individuals in aged care facilities underscored the importance of small acts of kindness and sparked positive connections within our local community. English Language students examined how our use of language indexes our multi-faceted identities and can be a means of asserting power. Emily White (Year 12) noted that ‘although Standard Australian English is an easy way of creating connections and promoting an effortless communication across cultures, it may also be one of the many ways ethnic groups within Australia are being silenced and partially erased by the majority.’

As a teacher, it is comforting to see compassion and understanding develop throughout the year, as well as students’ increasing willingness to share unique understandings of contemporary discussions and debate.

Nicole Biggelaar English Domain Leader

The Ocean

(excerpt from Year 8 Slam Poetry)

The pristine beaches, once beautiful and clean,  We filled them all up but that wasn’t enough, Cause we kept on coming back to run, jump and splash  And we kept on leaving our plastic, junk and trash. So, the earth began shaking,  As the creatures began to cry, But we didn’t listen,  To the Earth going dry, As we dump all our sewage, chemicals and waste, The water is slowly dying  And soon, so will our race.

Monique

Year 8

Enriquez

Ignition

(excerpt from creative fiction modelled on Cate Kennedy’s short stories)

The swathes of grass ripple silver as waves running before a moonlit wind, gusts buffeting the silky tops of the lush green swell, but dark figures seep into its depths like spilt oil, slick and deadly. Ironic. Our small group closes in on the oil refinery. This is the biggest statement we’ve made. Too soon, my minute for moving forwards is up, and I have to drop and be still again. I can feel the searching gaze of the camera pass above our bowed forms. If you truly want the concealment of night, you must not be static, but meld into the shifting that surrounds you. I lilt as the wind stirs me. The lengths of grass above my head shiver as if in the wake of a scythe.

Poppy Adams Year

11

DOMAIN HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Health and Physical Education (HPE) took on a new look this year engaging students in practical and active learning experiences online and offline, focusing on Geography and Physical Education. Throughout this unit students develop knowledge, understanding and skills to move safely and competently while valuing a positive relationship with and promoting the sustainable use of outdoor environments.

The Adventure unit in the Year 9 Discover Program provided students with a range of environmental knowledge, not only of our surrounding environment such as the Dandenong Ranges but also National Parks like the Grampians. The students learnt how to read and create maps and graphs in Geography, as well as how to prepare nutritious meals that could be used in camping experiences. Throughout the unit the students also participated in a range of physical and mental challenges to help improve their fitness and teamwork. The students created a 7 - week fitness program based around a goal which they wanted to achieve relating to their wellbeing. They also taught their peers how to tie different types of knots as well as the seven principles of Leave No Trace and how as a class they could follow these.

After Year 9 the next opportunity to continue with the challenge of Outdoor Education is VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies available at Year 10, 11 and 12. Through adventurous activities, fieldwork, nature study and conservation work, students are exposed to issuebased approaches that involve philosophical enquiry and systematic thinking. This content encourages students to face issues and consider their societies existing values while determining the values society needs to adopt for more sustainable lifestyles.

In February, the Year 12 Outdoor and Environmental Studies class participated in a 3-day camp hiking the Eastern Circuit at Wilsons Promontory. The students took part in an educational session by a Park Ranger who discussed the Indigenous culture and heritage of Wilsons Promontory as well as historical events such as European settlement, Industrialisation and Nation Building. The students were physically and mentally challenged as they carried their clothes, food and shelter for their entire hiking trip. Throughout the trip, students were engaged in practical experiences that enabled them to make comparisons between and reflect upon outdoor environments, as well as develop theoretical knowledge and skills relating to Wilsons Promontory.

Eliza Johns HPE Domain Leader

DOMAIN HUMANITIES

The Humanities Domain continued to deliver thoughtprovoking learning with a continued focus on developing students’ critical thinking skills in 2020. All staff have worked collaboratively to engage students in the various branches of cultural learning that is, the Humanities. Curriculum was developed with the focus of every student being able to shine during the year.

The Year 7 students began their Secondary school humanities journey by exploring and understanding the importance of historical events and the significance of these events both locally and globally on their lives and how fitting and significant the Year 2020 will be on their lives, something to remember for a lifetime!

The Year 8 students were not going to miss out on the annual medieval activities usually provided by external facilitators (music and dance, games, early medieval warfare and costume and lifestyle). Thanks to the extremely dedicated and creative Year 8 Humanities teaching team students participated in a medieval zoom incursion day where they baked Norman cakes and designed Eleanor of Aquitaine dresses, family crests’ and noble lady dresses. They also defended with home-made shields and swords, sling shots, jousting swords and protective fortresses and finally, they acted/entertained with violin, piano and Hamlet ensembles.

Year 9 students were ‘challenged’ as they were introduced to the world of Commerce. They explored their current skills and those required by future employers; they wrote a resume, learnt the difference between needs and wants and how choices need to be made and opportunity costs identified; they learnt the benefits of budgeting personally and for our economy. Additionally, they ‘communicated’ their understanding of the reasons for the existence of laws, the idea of rights and responsibilities, specific laws which affect them as a teenager and the role of the courts and powers of police.

Year 10 students in the units: Culture Conflict and Change; Issues and Insights and Dollars and Sense have been given the tools to imagine the future as they explored, were confronted by, questioned and planted the seeds of change in their lifelong journey to understand and actively participate in the world around them.

Year 11 and 12 students were engaged in VCE subjects of Accounting, Business Management, History and Legal Studies. These subjects and teachers developed the skills for our future leaders to be creative, problem-solve, think critically, negotiate, work in teams, apply judgement and make decisions which will give them tools vital to successfully navigating the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

I wish to acknowledge the mammoth and extraordinary efforts this year of all Humanities teachers to plan, change and plan again lessons that helped our students develop a better understanding of the world around them, question what is happening and wonder what if?

Janine Callahan Humanities Domain Leader

In our increasingly interconnected and interdependent world, learning a language other than English has never been more important. It illuminates numerous personal, social, cultural and employment opportunities, and is a challenging and incredibly rewarding pursuit.

In 2020, the LOTE Domain has focussed primarily on increasing the use of the target language within class and to continue to work with AIM (Accelerative Integrated Methodology) gesture-based learning program in the Middle School. It has been heartening to see videos of some of our talented students’ storytelling with AIM in Mandarin on our social media pages, shining a light on their commitment and appreciation of language learning in our community. This multi-sensory approach has catered to a range of learning styles and has really engaged our students by providing a change of pace and opportunities to learn kinaesthetically. For senior students, frequent French tutoring sessions have also improved their fluency and confidence in their abilities by exposing them to a wider variety of voices and experts.

Our LOTE team is always on the lookout for opportunities for students to get involved with extra-curricular activities and excursions. In Term 1, Year 10 students were fortunate enough to be able to attend the French Film Festival screenings and viewed Roxane, a comedy about a French poultry farmer who read one of the French classics to his hens to encourage them to produce the best eggs possible. Events such as this cement just how relevant and satisfying learning a language can be. A small group of Year 9 students also participated in the Global Youth Advocacy Forums, and this allowed students to connect with other young people across Asia, building their sense of community alongside their leadership skills.

Our goals evolved throughout the year to encompass a focus on independent and differentiated learning, given that students have had to take much more responsibility for their studies this year. Platforms such as Education Perfect has been fantastic in providing short tutorials, and the activities gave students a sense of progressive achievement along with meaningful feedback along the way. Similarly, opportunities to work together in Zoom breakout rooms were relished and provided a means to work collaboratively on practising their gestures and reinforcing skills in Mandarin or French.

Staff and students are commended for making the most of remote learning and finding creative ways to integrate language acquisition into their home life. A highlight was cooking demonstrations with recorded voice overs which were a chance to involve other family members and reveal hidden LOTE talents. In addition, the consistency of classroom opening routines such as practising greetings one-on-one with teachers provided our younger students with regular opportunities to connect with others and have a sense of structure to their lessons.

Watching students grow in their self-confidence throughout the year has truly been a privilege and I congratulate all LOTE students.

Nicole Biggelaar LOTE Domain Leader

Agility and adaptability became the focus for the Mathematics Domain as the year progressed. There was a willingness to learn from experiences, share these learnings amongst each other and then apply that learning to the new situations we had to face. The preparedness to embrace change from students and staff is a credit to all.

Maintaining connections and providing a sense of belonging was a priority and assisted in maintaining a strong teaching and learning program. Whether faceto-face or online the interaction between students and between staff and students created a vital connection that assists the mathematics learning journey.

The students learning is always at the centre of what we do and with the aid of online platforms such as Canvas, Cambridge Go, Kahoot, Desmos, Education Perfect and the Office 365 suite to name a few, we have been able to maintain that emphasis. The variety and blend of activities and the feedback cycle through formative and summative tasks contributed to the growth of all involved.

With an emphasis of multiplicity in the Middle School, we introduced an additional focus on literacy. That is the language and meaning that underpins the doing of the subject. Together these lay the foundations of all numeracy and mathematical concepts. We believe strongly in facilitating these concepts within our topic work to enhance the mathematical knowledge and skills of our students. We also continued to develop growth mindset, feedback and conceptual understanding around these focal points.

The Domain provided varied opportunities for students away from the classroom. One such offering was a variety of Maths Support programs (face-to-face on campus or through virtual meetings while remote). These were important activities where students would work oneon-one or in small groups to clarify understanding and misconceptions. In May, we participated in International Woman in Mathematics Day. This community event, celebrates female Mathematicians, attempts problems they posed and promotes mathematics as a career option.

It was extremely encouraging and highly commendable that many of our students participated in the Education Perfect Maths Championships 2020. This worldwide competition gives students the chance to compete against other students using their mathematical skills. Five students achieved Certificate level results: Charithi Fernando and Varina Rami Meina - Elite level, Sarah MacDonald - Emerald level, Jen MacDonald - Bronze level and Sashri De Alwis - Credit level.

We are continually working to create opportunities that allow a variety of learning experiences for our students. This is underpinned, by the relationships built between students and teachers and supported with a blend of activities to promote understanding and knowledge.

George Chilianis Mathematics Domain Leader

In Religious Education (RE) at Mater Christi College, we see the differing religious backgrounds and experiences of our students every day in classes and provide opportunities for them to make personal meaning and to develop a deeper understanding of the beliefs and values of our Catholic Christian tradition. This year, we discovered new ways of providing learning experiences in which we can share and explore our faith.

Year 7s virtually explored a variety of Catholic churches and created their own altar, tabernacle, baptismal font, lectern and stained-glass window as part of their church design portfolio.

Year 8s as part of their unit on St Benedict and his values, found time and space at home for sessions of quiet prayer and reflection which they balanced with work thereby benefitting their home ‘community’ through cooking dinner or gardening - our adaptation of St Benedict’s principle of Ora et Labora (Prayer and Work).

Year 9s explored Catholic beliefs through contemporary and traditional art. They gained knowledge and appreciation of how artists use symbols and colour to convey beliefs in the Incarnation, Jesus - Death and Resurrection and the Trinity. In their unit on forgiveness, students were able to use group chats to share their ideas and learn new skills in better relationships.

Year 10 Core RE gave students a range of units which helped them to connect religious belief with their experience of the world. An introduction to world religions required them to look more deeply at the assumptions about Islam and terrorism. They explored the nature of

DOMAIN RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

good, evil and suffering - particularly relevant in the age of Covid-19 and used the goals and principles of Catholic Social Justice, to reflect on what they wanted the world to look like in the future and to connect with current social justice issues, such as #indigenouslivesmatter.

Year 10 Youth Ministry students explored how to connect with primary school students preparing for their sacraments by creating online sacramental resource packs. Youth Ministry students also planned and led elements of year level Zoom Reflection Days.

Years 11 and 12 used videos, breakout room chats, and a range of online resources to research topics which explored the nature of religion and ethical issues, such as commercial surrogacy.

The Year 11/12 Catholic Action Program was able to provide practical assistance for people in the community between lockdowns, but rose to the challenge of working from home by sending letters and messages of hope and embarking on a major project focusing on the experiences of First Nations peoples, race relations and the need to address racism head on by planning to set up a small community garden of edible and medicinal plants.

Lisa McLean RE Domain Leader

RAISE AWARENESS

Raising awareness of the work that the Good Samaritan Sisters do through media and within our school community, will allow more people to be educated on the issues faced by those in the Phillipines.

SUPPORT

DONATE

The Sisters of the Good Samaritan need our donations of money and goods in order to help the people of the Phillipines.

OFFERING ASSISTANCE

Although now is not the time to travel, giving your time to going to the schools and communities in the Phillipines that are struggling provides them with their much needed supplies and also a sense of hope.

The Sisters of the Good Samaritan

The support from the community for the Sisters of the Good Samaritan is vital in the organisation continuing the great work that they do.

Science is all around us, not confined to a classroom or a laboratory, it is everywhere.

It is with this mindset that our students were able to develop an appreciation for science this year, through making observations, conducting investigations and experiments within their own homes. 2020 has proven to be like no other, and in true Mater Christi spirit, our students challenged themselves and continued to develop their skills in critical thinking, inquiry, investigation and research throughout the year, which is central to the aims and objectives of the Middle Years Program (MYP).

The Year 7 students were introduced to the scientific equipment of the lab and obtained their Bunsen burner licenses. They continued to learn more about the scientific process through the design and analysis of their own experiments, some of which took place in their kitchens. In our Habitats and Ecosystems unit, the Year 7 students attended a Melbourne Zoo webinar, to learn about Australia’s native species of mice and the work they are doing to help keep these animals from becoming extinct.

The Year 8 classes were visited by Leslie Almberg, a volcanologist, who gave the students an insight into women working in different fields of geosciences and possible career paths. She provided them with a hands-on experience in analysing rocks and minerals, many of which were obtained in the Mount Dandenong area. Later in the year, students developed their knowledge about plant and animal cells, and put this information into context by designing and conducting an experiment investigating plant growth.

The Year 9 students continued to build upon their knowledge and skills in their science rotations, as well as exploring STEM as a wholistic subject in Challenge. The five classes of Challenge all had the opportunity to engage in the Design Thinking process through participating in one or more interactive courses or programs. These included Wearable Technologies and 3D printing, High Tech Hospitals, Future Transport, all through the Yarra Ranges Tech School (YRTS), as well as the AI for Good Challenge and the Young Change Agents social enterprise program.

The VCE students continued with their studies with great determination and dedication. While learning online, they were able to engage in many online workshops and courses through establishments such as the University of Melbourne and GTAC, to give them further understanding of the areas of study, in an applied approach.

Congratulations also goes to Year 11 student Emma Gerber, who has been accepted into the New York Academy of Sciences, Junior Academy Program. Emma will be working with international peers on STEM and research projects.

We look forward to many more opportunities in the future to connect with community scientists both locally and globally, to enhance curiosity and learn more about the Science around us.

Laura Overdyk Science Domain Leader and STEM Coordinator

National Science Week was held across Australia on 15-23 August. It looked a little different this year with remote learning, however, the STEM leaders and Science team put on a great event throughout the week. The theme for this year was 'Deep Blue: Innovation for the future of our oceans' which is an extremely important topic to be thinking about. In the Laudato Si encyclical, Pope Francis writes "Oceans not only contain the bulk of our planet’s water supply, but also most of the immense variety of living creatures, many of them still unbeknown to us and threatened for various reasons." At Mater Christi College, it was important that we focussed on this aspect of National Science week, as well as having fun with other various activities.

The Year 10 and 11 Biology/Chemistry students had a unique opportunity to meet with biomedical scientists from the University of Melbourne. They learnt about the latest research and innovations that are currently being investigated and developed and had a chance to ask these professors about what pathways led them to their chosen careers. The theme for Science Week this year was "Deep Blue: Innovation for the future of our oceans" and Year 7 and 8 students engaged with an online virtual performance from the Marine Team. The team taught them about the issues that surround our oceans currently, with reference to ocean sustainability, how oceans impact our planet and what we can all do to help our oceans.

The 2020 STEM Cup was incorporated into Science Week with a range of activities organised such as a daily quiz, STEM HUB challenges, community time experiments, a science Kahoot and more. Our students were also entered into the Education Perfect Global Science competition and placed 7th in Victoria overall. A huge commitment to learning was shown by Sarah MacDonald, Varina Rami Meina, Charithi Fernando for earning over 5000 points on the Education Perfect Global Science competition, achieving the Emerald award.

Other notable achievements go to -

Bel King in Year 7 who participated in all of the five STEM Hub Challenges.

Kahoot winners - Bronya Robinson 1st, Charlotte Scobie 2nd and Maddi Zapanta 3rd.

Kyra Ghalay and Abby Pires for their submission into the MCC Science Week Performance Competition.

There was terrific enthusiasm for all the activities throughout Science week and the overall House winners were Gibbons!

Laura Overdyk Science Domain Leader and STEAM Coordinator

In 2020 we have indeed witnessed the can-do attitude and enthusiasm of all Mater Christi students. The determination and commitment from our students throughout the year has been exceptional. Despite the challenges and an unpredictable calendar, we have seen a number of innovative sporting opportunities continue for students to extend their sporting prowess. Whether students were representing the College or their House colours, they consistently demonstrated great commitment and willingness to have a go.

Early in the year, our annual Middle School Swimming Carnival was held at Lilydale Outdoor Pool. This House competition saw students compete in several different events and as usual, it was the energetic spirit of all Houses that made the day memorable. It was great to see all Middle School students involved, whether it was racing for first place or cheering for their Houses from the side. In a close finish, Lyons House was our 2020 Middle School Swimming Champions with Chisholm awarded first place for House Spirit.

Students across all year levels displayed their enthusiasm and determination in this year’s Virtual House Cross Country event. This event was held in a more local setting away from one another but still connected digitally in their House communities. Students across the year levels raced against time, and with high levels of participation, it made the competition tough. Chisholm was crowned the 2020 Virtual House Cross Country Champions after a 1-point difference to a second-place Gibbons House. It was fantastic to see students adapting to the changes and using several online platforms to experience this event.

Amongst these House events, students were also able to complete a variety of inter-school sports competitions. Whether it was a Triathlon in Geelong or Tennis in Boroondara, our students displayed their talents and were recognised for their outstanding performances. The sports competitions and awards continued as we entered the Secondary Catholic Sports Association ‘Running and

Skilful Competition’. This competition saw our students finish 1st in the ‘high participation’ category accumulating the most running/walking kilometres of the 12 competing associated schools. Students Sienna Kurdian and Jessica Pacevski placed 2nd in the ‘high performance’ category for their efforts in the 3km and 5km runs. The talented Zarli Vandenberg from Year 12 was awarded for her impeccable soccer skills in the ‘skills competition’. Congratulations to all involved and thank you to our 2020 sports leaders who encouraged and supported student participation throughout the year.

We are incredibly proud of the students who have been involved in the sports program this year. From the early morning starts, to lunchtime training sessions to competing in their own backyard, every student has demonstrated an outstanding character and ability to adapt.

Francois Armansin Sports Coordinator

Never before have we appreciated technology and the benefits of its connections more than we have this year. What an amazing and positive experience for our Mater community to truly understand and appreciate the ability to work remotely, to see how easy it is to build, develop and connect no matter where one’s location. This truly is a global world.

As Stephen Hawking said - "Whether you want to uncover the secrets of the universe, or you just want to pursue a career in the 21st century, basic computer programming is an essential skill to learn." This is just what our Year 7 students are starting to learn in Digitech.

What is well known is that technology is only as strong as the conceptual frameworks driving new ideas, developing, analysing, refining and evaluating them. This process is one Mater Christi College is proud to consistently foster right through the Technology curriculum in a number of subjects. The Senior Product Design students have created a range of garments from bathers in a western theme, to garments inspired by church architecture with extensive use of patchwork and applique. Another student has creatively recycled fabrics and used machine embroidery to make statements on equality and diversity in local and global communities.

While in hospitality, students in the Year 10 High Tea class have been able to complete a number of practical activities at home that relate to the High Tea unit this year, despite not being able to use the Food Technology kitchen. Many students baked or prepared dishes for their families such as chocolate brownies, cheesecakes, mini quiches and scones. Students have enjoyed learning about the historical aspects of High Tea and the independent learning opportunities available during online learning. Many students realised that being able to cook was relaxing and enjoyable during this most unusual time. The Mater Chef students took on the role of food magazine editors and using the design cycle they created specific dishes from their chosen food culture. Year 8 Food Technology students were introduced to food safety and healthy eating habits. While for Year 7 students, despite the time available to use sewing machines and equipment this year has been limited, they have still been able to create their own pair of boxer shorts or pyjama pants. Along with working on the textiles folio where students research and design, they have been completing ‘Craft at Home’ activities.

Caroline Wareham Technology Domain Leader

CHRISTI

Designer - Kathleen O'Mahony

Client - Siobhan Steele

Designer - Madison Embury Client - Alanna Myett

Designer - Vanessa Mackey Client - Cassidy Ede

Designer - Hayley Mafrici Client - Hannah Mafrici

DOMAIN SOCIAL JUSTICE AND STEWARDSHIP

This year the Social Justice team had to think creatively and flexibly. While not all the events of previous years have run much has been achieved, and perhaps, even more.

In Term 1 sales of pancakes and Casual Dress for a Cause day raised over $1,200 for Project Compassion. The funds go to Caritas Australia and are distributed nationally and globally to fund a range of community run development projects as defined by the communities themselves.

In late February, Year 12 Catholic Action Program (CAP) students, in partnership with the Shire of Yarra Ranges hosted a screening of the documentary 2040. The film looks at what positive action can be taken to ensure a healthy, thriving planet by 2040. Filmmaker Damon Gameau was present for a Q&A session and there were many probing questions from students and community members keen to make positive change.

CAP students were also lucky in Term 1 to squeeze in one St Vinnies Soup Van - Student Street Retreat. Six Year 12 students were able to join the Vinnies Fitzroy Soup Vans on their city run. Students engaged in conversation and banter as they handed out care packs and other items to people experiencing homelessness.

While we were not able to do our usual drive for food items for Tinnies for Vinnies, the Social Justice Captains and the CAP class organised another Casual Dress for a Cause day and bake sale and were able to gift twenty five $50 food vouchers to the Vinnies Belgrave Chapter. The vouchers were then distributed to local families who were experiencing hardship so they could buy food items of their choice. Before the Tin Shed was required to close, a small group of CAP students served a two-course meal prepared by VCAL students to Belgrave locals looking for a meal and some company.

VCAL students also maintained connections with Vinnies as they provided fortnightly supplies of brownies that were distributed by the Fitzroy/City Monday Soup Vans. As physical outreach was not possible after the second lockdown, students discovered other ways of demonstrating acts of kindness. Letters were sent to nursing homes, posters and cards went to health and frontline workers, messages of hope were drawn on footpaths and teddy bears were placed in windows as bearers of hope.

SoJust Week saw the SoJust captains organise a range of activities encouraging students to take positive action towards environmental stewardship. There were photography challenges celebrating the beauties of nature, recycling challenges, sustainable cooking, and of course, mandatory mask making.

Throughout Term 3, the CAP class has been working on a major project focusing on the experiences of First Nations peoples, race relations and the need to address racism head on. The proposal involves local Indigenous elders setting up a small community garden of edible and medicinal plants with cultural information as to how they were used and how they can be used. The project will be complemented by a series of school and community workshops in 2021 facilitated by students and presented by Indigenous elders.

To round off the year, the Social Justice Captains and the new team for 2021 will launch the Vinnies Christmas Appeal which collects toys and Christmas items to go into hampers for families in the local area.

Congratulations must go to the Middle and Senior School Social Justice and Liturgy Captains, Hannah Koolstra, Sarah MacDonald, Avreet Sandhu, Chelsea Carlyon and Louise Punturere, Year 11 and 12 CAP students and VCAL for their remarkable and compassionate responses to the challenges of 2020.

Con Sarris Social Justice and

Stewardship Coordinator

In 2020 we delighted in welcoming five new International students both on and off campus, along with a Japanese and German exchange student in Term 1. Orientation to Mater Christi this year looked a little different for some and involved Zoom meetings with new teachers as well as virtual tours of our College. Without a doubt, the year has provided students with many opportunities to strengthen their resilience and independence, particularly for those who are living away from home with our supportive homestay families. It has been such a joy to see our new students grow in confidence and make connections with local students.

A key goal for Bridging English staff this year was to develop student confidence in using Canvas’ numerous functions, and to expose new students to some of the innovative resources often employed by mainstream teachers such as Education Perfect and Padlet. A greater use of collaborative tools such as shared documents provided opportunities for students to pool their collective knowledge, and shared screens via Zoom were incredibly useful in assisting students to navigate Canvas - essential for our students who are moving towards greater independence in mainstream classes.

Our International room has been an important point of connection while we were on campus and assisted us in achieving our goal this year of continuing to build relationships across year levels. Sharing food to celebrate milestones throughout the year, playing cards and completing jigsaw puzzles together were enjoyed by students and reinforced our sense of community.

This year certainly provided many occasions for our senior International students in particular to shine their light for others in our community. Participating in the Mater Day House Performing Arts Competition was a highlight, illuminating hidden singing, musical and video editing talents. More importantly, it was a chance to demonstrate the value in taking risks and reflected the close relationships that students have built during their time at Mater Christi College. In addition, a number of our students have continued their studies from China, and our senior students in Australia were a fantastic help in sorting out technical issues and maintaining social connections. I am so very proud of their community spirit and willingness to be a beacon of leadership in the College.

I congratulate all our International students who have each shone their light in a variety of creative ways to reinforce unity, show support and courage in this atypical year.

Nicole Biggelaar International Student Coordinator

Reflections

When I came here on my first day, the teachers showed consideration for me and the International students were enthusiastic.

Alice Wang Year 10

On my first day at Mater, I made many friends in 7D and with the International students. I have good memories of my first day at school.

Lydia Zhang Year 7

This is my third and last year at Mater ChristiI still remember the first day I came to school and how enthusiastic the teachers were towards me. My classmates were kind and friendly, and they were willing to explain the instructions when I was confused with the language. I have learnt many things other than academic subjects at Mater Christi. For example, Mater Christi provides us many opportunities to show our talents and improve our teamwork skills. I am glad that I chose Mater Christi as I have had such a great student life here.

Shirley Shen Year 12 International Student Captain

The House Performing Arts Competition (HPAC) was such a great opportunity to celebrate the people and things of this memorable three-year high school journey. Even though we have been through a tough year in 2020, we still support and inspire each other mentally, and that makes our friendships stronger. I will never forget this remarkable HPAC day and our friendship, and I thank the Year 12 class of 2020 for presenting this wonderful performance.

Victoria Chi Year

12

International Student Captain

CAREERS

The main focus for this year has been assisting Year 12 with their University and TAFE applications. They are all really looking forward to a wonderful transition into Tertiary education and making 2020 count for something worthwhile.

VTAC - the Victorian Tertiary Applications Centre, have worked closely with all schools and particularly the Careers Department, to make sure that all Year 12 students are given special consideration, if their ability to perform to their academic best has been compromised, by COVID restrictions.

Another key aspect has been the delivery of a Careers Newsletter. It is important to be able to provide up to date information to senior school students and the community. Over the year the Careers News, has been full of fantastic information. Each newsletter has profiled an Industry or study area in Victoria. For example:

• Animation and Gaming

• Environmental Science

• Global and International Studies

• Human Resources

• Project Management

• Public Health

• Secondary Education

• Youth Work

This year major Tertiary institutions ran Virtual Events and webinars. These were unique but offered so much opportunity for students to be informed and know exactly what was on offer.

Another major focus was for all students from Year 7-12 to complete an online Career Action Plan. This way there can be meaningful, rigorous discussions with students about pathways and aspirations. This Plan acts as a rolling online counselling tool as students explore careers and are introduced to career management early on in their Secondary school life.

Instead of the regular Subject and Tertiary Expo Subject Selection dialogue was provided online with Curriculum Information Evenings and Subject Selection Consultations. The attendance by parents and students was better than ever.

As we move into a 'new normal' in our workplaces, it will be even more important to be aware of where the jobs will be, where the workforce shortages will be and where the future of work is heading. This will become a key focus in Careers Education in the future at Mater Christi College.

Andy Donnelly Careers Coordinator

LEARNING COMMONS

The Learning Commons certainly lived up to its mission as an agile and flexible learning space for the community. An online presence became even more vital to build and maintain connections between students and teacherlibrarians.

An online Canvas course was created for students to access online materials, instructional video tutorials, tools for researching, links to reading resources and resources for research.

Year 7 DEAR Challenge

The Drop Everything and Read (DEAR) Challenge for Year 7 students began in Term 3 to promote reading for pleasure and encouraged students to read for ten minutes each day. Even though the students were off-site they rose to the challenge and diligently entered their reading times every week.

Award Winners

Highest Achiever - Aaliyah Lacey

Most Consistent Reader with ImprovementIndigo Thomson

"I realised how much time you can actually read without missing out on other things." Jessica Smith

Jennifer Cain Head of Learning Commons

Book Club

"Book Club has brought together some great people with the same brilliant interest: Books! Book Club has helped me to open up and not be so shy and has also helped me stay connected during isolation." Claire Pierce

Students created Book Club experiences mediated by the teacher-librarians. Every week saw each student choose one of her favourite novels to read to peers, facilitate discussions and experiment with different activities and technologies. Students have flourished and the support within the group allowed everyone to feel comfortable sharing and engaging with one another.

Rebecca Nettleton and Kaitlyn Woods Librarians

House Activities

House Swimming

The House Cup Competition began this year with the Middle School Swimming Carnival. It was a sunny morning as the Year 7, 8 and 9 students dressed in purple, orange, blue and green piled off the bus and into the swimming arena. The students were excited to jump in the pool and show off their swimming talents in different races including freestyle, backstroke, breastroke and butterfly to win points for their houses. Swimming wasn’t the only activity available on the day with students invited to join a range of novelty events outside of the pool such as the three-legged race and egg and spoon race ran by the VCAL students. It was tough competition throughout the whole day as the students showcased their very best swimming talents and House spirit. The day ended with each House presenting their chant as loudly and passionately as possible to win the House Spirit award. Chisholm took out first place in the House Spirit followed by MacKillop then Gibbons and Lyons. The students eagerly awaited the final swimming results with smiles on their faces showing that it was a memorable day for all. Congratulations to Lyons winning the 2020 Swimming Carnival followed by Chisholm, MacKillop and then Gibbons.

House Chalk Art Competition

Students enjoyed this year's House Chalk Art Competition in March, with chalk murals displaying the theme of environment and sustainability. The activity was a paired event bringing Year 7 and 10 together to work as buddies. Houses filled their drawing panel with imagery of nature and the harsh realities of how humans can impact it. There was a brilliant sense of achievement among those competing with all students contributing to their House mural. The event was run by the Mater Christi Arts Committee and saw Gibbons take out first place followed by Chisholm, Lyons, and MacKillop.

House Cross Country

The House Cross Country event in May took on a new look this year. It was held as a virtual event with all year levels participating in the opportunity to gain points for their Houses. All students had 20 minutes to see how far they could run or walk. Using an app to track the distance covered, evidence of the distance was then uploaded onto our school program Canvas. Both performance and participation were key to win the Cross-Country Cup. The top three athletes for each year level were awarded based on the distance covered in 20 minutes and gained extra points for their House. Congratulations to the Year level winners -

Year 7 Josie Bamford (Gibbons)

Year 8 Sienna Kurdian (Gibbons)

Year 9 Jessica Pacevski (Chisholm)

Year 10 Taylah Diedrich (MacKillop)

Year 11 Hannah Hodges (Chisholm)

Year 12 Sophie Ryan (Chisholm)

The overall placings for each House was a combination of participation points and points from the Year level winners. It was a very close contest between first and second place with only one point separating the two Houses.

Congratulations to Chisholm for finishing in first place, Gibbons in second place, Lyons third, followed by MacKillop.

House Performing Arts Competition (HPAC)

In mid-August the school came together virtually for Mater Day and our annual House Performing Arts Competition. Ensuring that we could ‘go on with the show’ the event changed from our usual live performances in the Hall to being online! There were over 50 talent video submissions showcasing the skill at the College in areas of Dance, Drama, Singing, Music and Media. This year students were also given the opportunity to perform in mixed House groups allowing combinations of student performers. Highlights included a singing performance from our Senior International Students, a dance styles mash up from Year 9 performers and a group jazz routine from the Year 12 Dance class. The main event was broadcast live on zoom with students learning of the top ten and then the top five talent videos. In fifth place was a mixed House high energy cheer routine from Charli Heart, Sienna Aldons, Ashleigh Thompson and Sami Lane. In fourth place representing MacKillop was Maddy Brown singing a vocal solo from the musical ‘The Great Comet’ while in third place also representing MacKillop was Abbey Sammut with a technically astounding contemporary dance solo. In second place, we saw Isabelle Dowel a member of Lyons house tickle the ivory with a piano solo that was extraordinary. Finally, the winning talent video featured an original song ‘Assumptions’ written and performed by vocal powerhouse Sienna Cross with artwork by Megan Prass, proudly representing Gibbons House. MacKillop took out top spot on the day followed by Lyons, Gibbons and Chisholm. The event was truly memorable despite some changed circumstances with an excellent community feel, involvement of all year levels and wonderful House spirit.

House STEM Cup

In the week following Mater Day, the STEM Cup took place with a variety of activities such as Kahoots, daily quizzes and online challenges involving students and staff. There was strong participation throughout this week contributing to House points, with some fantastic achievements from several students outlined in the STEAM report a result of so many participating students and staff, we saw Gibbons take first place, followed by Chisholm, MacKillop and Lyons.

We would like to thank the wonderful Senior and Middle School leadership teams for their perseverance, enthusiasm and hard work in 2020. These students include Ally Smart, Tess Grandia, Stephanie Williams and Cassidy Ede representing Chisholm House; Danielle Cooke, Charli Gardiner, Ella Liebler and Jade Smith representing Lyons House; Vanessa Bateman, Ashleigh Thomson, Maddison Davis and Gabrielle Sard representing Gibbons House and Charli Petersen, Ava Zidek, Morgan Godfrey and Jess Chapman representing MacKillop House.

Eliza Johns Chisholm House Leader

Natalie Nash Lyons House Leader

Rebecca Woff Gibbons House Leader

Sarah Owen MacKillop House Leader

House

College Photos

SRC

Middle School Leaders

Top Row Ashleigh Thomson, Hannah Koolstra, Sarah MacDonald, Simone Martin, Charli Petersen, Alisha McGaffin

Second Row Marlo VanderZalm, Tess Grandia, Sami Lane, Danielle Cooke, Vanessa Bateman, Charli Hart, Charli Gardiner, Alicia Petersen, Mary Fitz-Gerald

First Row Kiara D’Sylva, Jemma Mason, Piper Wilson, Alexandra Smart, Ava Zidek, Raquel Pospischil

Top Row Cassidy Ede, India Griffiths, Amelia Metcalfe, Ella Liebler, Gabrielle Sard, Jennifer Sahely Second Row Shae Mayes, Stephanie Williams, Hannah Hodges, Jade Smith, Lillie Park Jenkinson, Louise Punturere, Mary Fitz-Gerald First Row Jessica Chapman, Morgan Godfrey, Chelsea Carlyon, Avreet Sandhu, Shivangi Palliyil, Maddison Davis

Year 11 Student Council

Year 10 Student Council

Top Row Siann Thomas, Matilda McDermott, Melinda Lovat, Brianna Wilcox, Jasmine Andrews

First Row Madison-Rae Zapanta, Sienna Reeves, Lily Calvert, Sienna Cross

Top Row Julie Feeney, Stephanie Williams, Cassidy Ede, Sasha Hundle, Ella Liebler, Gabrielle Sard, Jennifer Sahely, James Bakker

First Row Jessica Chapman, Maddison Davis, Jade Smith, Hannah Hodges, Emma Gerber, Morgan Godfrey

Rachel

Anna

Josephine

Ava

Eloise

Emilie

Kathleen

Lara

Year 8B

Audrey

Willow Bakker

Isabella Colussi

Sophie

Sarah Barnett

Michailey Barton-Smith

Phoebe

Matilda

Tanya

Madeline

Ruby

Alicia Petersen

Scarlett Stephens

Charli Petersen

Chloe Telling

Rosemary Roberts

Ava Thompson

Alana Robinson

Sienna Ross

Harriet Seip Willow Simandjuntak

Georgia Birch

Alli De Hoogd

Charlotte Brache

Emma Di Nardo

Alexandra Brown

Monique Doherty

Jessica Brown

Charithi Fernando

Zara Cumming

Eliza Forbes

Amy Cunliffe

Holly Gaul

Emily Dahlborg Charli Hart

Year 9B

Jaya Kumar

Lily Ryan

Ashleigh Thomson

Alisha McGaffin

Abbey Reeves Charlotte Rickards

Evelyn Bamford

Grace Campbell

Jasmin Donner

Ella Jonker

Yu Fang

Tara Kamari

Kahlani Gage

Lilly Gaudion-Arrowsmith

Hayley Kenna

Tess Grandia Ella Kimberley

Angelina Hochholzer

Charlotte Link-Freeman

Jemma

Alice

Lily

Raquel

Phoenix Whitty

Hannah

Bethany

Elise

Madison-Rae Zapanta

Anastasia

Ruby

Daisy Pritchard

Thalia Romero Hill

Charlotte Rose

Jessica Silva

Rachel Webb

Amelia Anderson

Abby Denman

Alicia Masterson

Alexandra Walsh

Molly Argoon

Cassidy Germano

Angeline Pavic

Georgia Atkinson

Meg Groeneveld

Abbey Preston

Emma Beckwith

Ellie Haynes

Emma Rossi

Alessia Cannata

Claire James

Katrina Stokes

Mackenzie Carter

Heather Ladley Lani Sutherland

Stephanie Damon Talia Laurence Jessie Thomas

Lili

Matilda

Brianna

Meg

Pranita

Year 11B

Arwen Wilson

Katelyn

Roselee

Poppy

Indigo

Ebannie Sidoti

Rhianna Little Molly Mai Hailey Norden

Emily Pavic

Gosia Piosicka Indigo Sangster

Ella Liebler

Building and Facilities

Our building and facilities development program continued amid the complications of 2020.

Five Science Labs underwent major refurbishment. This project was partially funded through a Victorian Government Capital Grant. New lockers were installed across the campus. The new and more efficient heating and cooling for the E Building along with LED lighting throughout the College will reduce our carbon footprint and future utilities costs.

Ongoing enhancements to our Audio Visual and Communication Technologies proved invaluable during this year of extensive online learning and teaching as well as for significant whole-school events.

COLLEGE STAFF

College Leaders

Mary Fitz-Gerald Principal

Julienne Feeney Deputy Principal

College Staff

Barbara Alexander Teacher

Francois Armansin Sports Coordinator

Tara Baker Year 12 Coordinator

James Bakker Year 11 Coordinator

Graham Balderstone Teacher

Fiona Bennett Teacher

Nicole Biggelaar International Student Coordinator

Amanda Bischof-Foster Teacher

Colleen Bolton Faith Development Leader

Collette Bond Director of Curriculum

Jennifer Cain Head of Learning Commons

Janine Callahan Domain Leader - Humanities

George Chilianis Domain Leader - Maths

Catherine Close Teacher

Brooke Cooke Psychologist

Lisa Costello Teacher

Jacinta Crocker Marketing Communications Manager

Tim Crowe Director of Development

Rochelle Davy Finance Officer

Grace Dillon Year 12 Learning Coordinator

Deepika Dissanayake Learning Assistant

Andy Donnelly Careers Counsellor

Evelyn Dousset VASS Coordinator/ Daily Organiser

Justine Edwards Learning Diversity Leader

Melissa Evans Chaplain

Shelley Falconer Teacher

Lauren Faragher Teacher

Eliza Fildes Year 9 Learning Coordinator

Michelle Flintoff Teacher

Rhoda Gavin Teacher

Tim Glover Operations Manager

Vicki Godfrey Year 7 Learning Coordinator

Torie Gordon Domain LeaderEnglish and LOTE

Jenny Got Teacher

Debbie Gould Teacher

Fiona Griffith Business Manager

Shona Hardwick Office Manager

Andrea Hayman Administration Assistant

Kate Hazeldine Teacher

Kate Jay Teacher

Eliza Johns House Leader - Chisholm

Jessie Journoud-Ryan Tutor

Peter Kadar Teacher

Cherine Kenna Executive Assistant/ Company Secretary

Bernd Kirsch Teacher

Vanessa Leaver Teacher

Jenny Lee Teacher

Kylie Lee Registrar/Director of International Students

Melinda Lovat Year 10 Learning Coordinator

Sue Lyford Office Manager

Anthea Mafrici Finance Officer

Margherita Magagna Year 8 Learning Coordinator

Genevieve Mallia Teacher

Cara Manion Tutor

Shae Mayes Head of Senior School

Jenny McAdam Tutor

Jennifer McKane Laboratory Technician

Andrea McKay Marketing Communications Coordinator

Annette McKernan Nurse

Lisa McLean

Domain Leader - Religion

Siobhan Merritt Teacher

Tatum Mitchell Business Manager

Amanda Morris Year 9 Learning Coordinator

Sara Mugridge Pathways Coordinator

Natalie Nash House Leader - Lyons

Rebecca Nettleton Librarian

Sharon Olive Teacher Cherene Onslow Nurse

Laura Overdyk Domain LeaderScience and STEAM

Sarah Owen House Leader - MacKillop Karlene Rainbow Teacher

Monica Rankin Teacher Catherine Rashleigh Psychologist

Gregoria Rivaloro Teacher

Libbie Rogers Teacher

Con Sarris Social Justice and Outreach Coordinator

Anne-Louise Sheehan Teacher

Denise Simmons Teacher

Judith Simpson Teacher

Simon Templin Teacher

Linda Tilson

Teacher

Ewa Toomey

Faith Development Leader

Lisa Tran AFL Trainee

Naomi Trumino Teacher

Andriana Tsikouris Teacher

Alisa Turner

Learning Assistant

Saskia Van Schie Home Stay Coordinator

Marlo VanderZalm

Head of Middle School

Catherine Walker Teacher

Caroline Wareham Domain Leader - Arts and Technology

Wendy Warren Food Technology Assistant

Angie Wei Teacher

Rebecca Woff House Leader - Gibbons

Kaitlyn Woods Library Technician

Caitlin Yann Administration Assistant

Ren Zhou Teacher

Leo Zito Teacher

Barbara Alexander Francois Armansin

Tara Baker

James Bakker

Graham Balderstone Fiona Bennet

Nicole Biggelaar

Amanda Bischof-Foster

Colleen Bolton Collette Bond Jennifer Cain

Janine Callahan George Chilianis Catherine Close

Brooke Cooke Lisa Costello Jacinta Crocker Tim Crowe

Rochelle Davy Grace Dillon Deepika Dissanayake

Andy Donnelly

Evelyn Dousset

Melissa Evans Shelley Falconer

Lauren Faragher

Julienne Feeney Eliza Fildes

Mary Fitz-Gerald

Michelle Flintoff

Rhoda Gavin Tim Glover

Vicki Godfrey Torie Gordon Jenny Got

Debbie Gould Fiona Griffith Shona Hardwick

Andrea Hayman

Kate Hazeldine

Kate Jay Eliza Johns

Jessie Journord-Ryan

Peter Kadar

Cherine

Kenna

Bernd Kirsch

Vanessa Leaver Jenny Lee Kylie Lee

Melinda Lovat

Sue Lyford

Anthea Mafrici

Margherita Magagna Genevieve Mallia Cara Manion

Shae Mayes

Jenny McAdam Jennifer McKane Andrea McKay Annette McKernan Lisa McLean Siobhan Merritt Tatum Mitchell

Amanda Morris Sara Mugridge

Natalie Nash Rebecca Nettleton Sharon Olive Cherene Onslow Laura Overdyk

Sarah Owen

Karlene Rainbow

Monica Rankin

Catherine Rashleigh Gregoria Rivaloro Libbie Rogers Con Sarris

Anne-Louise Sheehan Denise Simmons Judith Simpson Simon Templin Linda Tilson Ewa Toomey Lisa Tran

Naomi Trumino

Andriana Tsikouris Alisa Turner Saskia van Schie Marlo VanderZalm Catherine Walker Caroline Wareham

Wendy Warren Angie Wei

LetyourLightShineforOthers