MacKillop Bulletin - Term 3, Week 6, 2024

Acting Principal

Dear Families,

Swimming Carnival

Thank you to families for your support of our recent swimming carnival. Any feedback is welcome, so we can improve the offering for 2025. Please be assured we will be continuing with a swimming carnival into the future.

September 6 - Student Free Day

On Friday 6 September, the College will be having a student free day. Staff will participate in a moderation day with other secondary teachers across the state from Government, Catholic and Independent schools. The purpose of moderation provides teachers with an opportunity to work on how to improve student learning outcomes and improve the consistency of judgements. These connections with other secondary teachers will be highly important for our teaching staff and will support their professional development. 

Positive Behaviour Support Guide for Parents

This term we have spent a lot of time improving our behaviour support. This has included visuals in every classroom and refresher sessions for staff and students. It has also meant the construction of a Positive Behaviour Support Guide for Parents. In a recent OECD report, Australia ranked 33 out of 37 in the OECD for disruption and behaviour. This is a concern for every school. My expectation is that we have an orderly, positive and respectful environment at MacKillop Catholic College. It is also my hope that the guide for parents gives some insight into how this is managed at the College. One change is that we will not be constantly sending negative logs home, but will focus on phone conversations and/or face-to-face contact. Fundamentally, our approach is underpinned by the fundamental dignity of every person, independent of ethnicity, creed, gender, sexuality, age or ability. That is the foundation of Catholic Social Teaching.

Staffing Update

• We welcome Ms Laura Trenham who is replacing Mrs Suzanne Bacon. We thank Mrs Bacon for her contribution to the College and wish her every blessing for her retirement.
• We welcome Jodie Dalmazzo as Human Resources Manager.
• We welcome Ms Brittanie McCarthy to the College. Brittanie is working in communications and marketing and is coming to us from St Mary's College. The recent parent survey saw a desire from the community to improve communications at the College. Brittanie will be focused on this goal as well as sharing many positive stories in our community. 
• This term we have advertised many 2025 leadership positions at the College. These will be announced to the community towards the end of term.

Parent Uniform 

As previously communicated, recent feedback from parents made it clear that we should have a broad look at our current uniform offerings at the College. Thank you to the parents and guardians who have already nominated to be part of the discussion. Please email me directly if you are interested bgill@mackillop.tas.edu.au

Feeder School Visits and Principal Tours

In recent weeks, I have been visiting our feeder schools and also conducting regular principal tours. It has been a wonderful insight into the strengths of the College and our broader community. There is a positive narrative in the community about MacKillop but also a hope in the future of the school. The unique 7-12 experience that the College offers continues to be highlighted and we have enrolment enquiries from all over Hobart because of this opportunity. We are also beginning to receive enrolment enquiries specifically for our senior school. This shows that the trust in this new part of the College has grown rapidly.

Brendan Gill
Acting Principal

Deputy Principal - Wellbeing

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

We are pleased to introduce a new initiative aimed at fostering a more supportive and respectful environment at MacKillop Catholic College: our Positive Behaviour Protocol. This new framework aligns with our Vision Statement, "We are a Christ-Centred learning community fostering excellence, compassion, and service," and is designed to support and elevate our community standards.

One of the changes we have made with the introduction of our Positive Behaviour Protocol is the method and timing of when we contact home with behavioural concerns. Negative Behaviour Logs are now not automatically emailed and instead we have asked our staff to call home to express any ongoing concerns. This is in response to ongoing feedback received from our community about the best practice method of communication between key stakeholders.

What is the Positive Behaviour Protocol?

The Positive Behaviour Protocol is an integrated approach to promoting positive student behaviour throughout our school. This framework is informed by the Australian Student Wellbeing Framework (ASWF) and focuses on creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment where students can thrive academically and personally.

You can find our Positive Behaviour Protocol on our College Website and the link below:

Key Features of the Protocol

1.  Clear Behaviour Expectations:

• We have established specific expectations for behaviour in different areas of the school. These expectations will be prominently displayed through signage in key locations such as classrooms, hallways, the canteen, and common areas. These signs will help students clearly understand what is expected of them in various settings.

2.  Restorative Practices:

• Our approach to addressing unacceptable behaviour is grounded in restorative practices. We aim to correct behaviour through respectful, one-on-one conversations that focus on understanding and improvement rather than punishment. This method encourages students to reflect on their actions and make positive changes.

3.  Acknowledging Positive Behaviour:

• We believe in recognizing and celebrating positive behaviour. Students who consistently demonstrate responsibility, respect, and effort will be acknowledged through positive academic and behaviour logs. These achievements will be celebrated in House Assemblies, further reinforcing our commitment to a positive school culture.

4.  Support Structures:

• Our Positive Behaviour Protocol includes a range of support mechanisms such as Lunchtime Reflection Sessions and After School Reflection Processes for addressing repeated or serious behavioural issues. Additionally, Individual Support Plans and Social Emotional Learning Plans will be used to provide targeted support for students with specific needs.

5.  Consistent Procedures:

• Our approach to managing behaviour is consistent and fair. We have developed flowcharts and protocols to guide responses to both positive and unacceptable behaviour. This ensures that all students are treated with respect and that behavioural expectations are clear and consistently applied.

How Can You Support This Initiative?

Your involvement is crucial to the success of the Positive Behaviour Protocol. Here’s how you can help:

1.  Discuss Expectations at Home:

• Talk to your child about the behaviour expectations and the importance of following them. Reinforce these expectations at home to help your child understand and meet them consistently.

2.  Encourage Positive Behaviour:

• Celebrate your child’s positive behaviour and achievements. Encourage them to be mindful of the behaviour expectations and to take pride in contributing to a positive school environment.

3.  Engage with Us:

• Stay informed about how the Positive Behaviour Protocol is being implemented and provide feedback. Your insights are valuable in helping us refine and enhance our approach.

We believe that by working together, we can create a nurturing environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we implement this important initiative.

SCHOOL TV - SPECIAL REPORT: Healthy Study Habits

In today's world, where distractions are abundant and the pressure to excel is high, guiding children to develop healthy study habits is more important than ever. As students aspire to achieve academic success, the cornerstone of that achievement lies not just in their intelligence or drive, but in the study habits they cultivate.

It's essential for students to recognise that good study habits aren't merely about spending extra hours hitting the books. It's more about quality over quantity and having a more balanced approach. Emphasising the value of a routine is essential. Consistent study times establish a sense of structure and discipline, turning studying into a natural part of their daily routine rather than a burdensome task.

Additionally, how students approach their study sessions is equally important. Taking regular breaks is a crucial part of this process in maintaining focus and preventing burnout.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity are indispensable elements that will significantly impact your child's ability to study effectively. Fostering these healthy habits is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer children, paving the way for a lifetime of learning and achievement.

This Special Report will help you support your young person as they embark on studying for exams.

Here is the link to your Special Report:

Andrew Pritchard
Deputy Principal - Wellbeing

Student Achievements

Elliott Stee (Year 11) is a State Champion in The Australian History Competition for 2024! Congratulations Elliott on this fantastic achievement! 

Phoebe Sallese (Year 8) won the Robert Beakley Medal (Best and Fairest) for the Under 14 Girls in the Southern Tasmanian Junior Football League.

Congratulations Phoebe, what a great result!

Kobe Young (Year 9) will represent Tasmania in the Under 16 2024 Australian Youth Volleyball Championship to be held in Bendigo in September.

Kobe has also secured a place on the National Development Camp following the Volleyball Championships.

Congratulations Kobe and we wish you all the very best for these upcoming events!

Charlie Ashford (Year 7) has been selected to represent Tasmania in the Under 14 Footlocker National Championships for basketball in Victoria this September. 

All the best for your participation Charlie!

Reuben Jacobson (Year 9) has been selected to represent Tasmania in the Under 15 National State Water Polo Championships to be held on the Gold Coast in September.

Congratulations Reuben, and all the best for the Championships!

Is your son or daughter doing something outstanding, amazing, or extraordinary that they want to share with us? We would love to hear from you!

Please send your stories and photos to communications@mackillop.tas.edu.au and we will highlight achievements in our bulletin. 

Director of Catholic Identity and Ministry

Blessed Carlo Exhibit

On Thursday and Friday last week, a travelling exhibition about the life of Blessed Carlo Acutis was on display at the College. The exhibit included and relic of Blessed Carlo that was displayed in St Joseph’s Chapel.

Several Theology and Spirituality classes had the opportunity to tour the exhibit and it was available to view at Recess and Lunch.

You can read about the story of Blessed Carlo here: 

Vinnies Winter Appeal and Sleepout

Thanks you to all students and families who were able to make a donation to the Vinnies Winter Appeal over the last two weeks.

These donations go directly to support our local community who are experiencing hardship and homelessness.

On Thursday night, The Vinnies and Mission students participated in a sleepout in the College Gym to show solidarity with people experiencing homelessness. The group made sweet slices to donate to Louis Van and learned about how we can support the work of the St Vincent de Paul Society.

You can make a donation to the Vinnies Winter Appeal here:

Lachlan Marsh
Director of Identity and Ministry

Director of Junior School

Our Year 8 students have had the pleasure of hosting students from our 'feeder schools' years 3-5 for Biology experiences to mark Science Week!  What a great job they have done.  This was a flipped classroom experience which means they got to be the teachers and lead these younger students through a learning adventure where they had the opportunity to work with microscopes, and get to know more about the organs in their bodies. 

The students and teachers that visited said they had a great time and wanted to know when they could come back again so we will have to see what we can do in that regard. 

Well done Year 8, I bet you didn't realise you were such great Science teachers.  Well done to the Science team and everyone that contributed and of course to our mascot Timothy for being such a great sport - over and over again!

Alison Stevens
Director of Junior School

Director of Pastoral Care

Student Leadership Term 3, 2024 - Term 3, 2025

Student leadership at MacKillop Catholic College provides a crucial platform upon which students can build school and community spirit. By taking on leadership roles, students learn to take initiative, make decisions and understand the value of responsibility and accountability. Nominating for a student leadership position is a valuable opportunity for personal and academic growth. Additionally, being a student leader helps build confidence and resilience, as students learn to navigate challenges and inspire their peers. Overall, participating in student leadership is a rewarding experience that equips students with the tools they need to become proactive, empathetic and influential members of society.

On August 16, all year 10 and 11 students were introduced to the process for our next round of Student Leadership Applications, starting with applications received for College Captain and Deputy Captains. 

The role of Deputy College Captains has once again been added to the complement of student leadership opportunities. This decision was supported at our last Leadership Meeting in recognition of our growing College and student needs.

During our Whole School assembly last Friday we heard from a number of students vying for the important, service-oriented roles of College Captains and Deputy Captains. We congratulate these students on their willingness to apply for these important roles. While it is not possible for all to be appointed, we commend each of the nominees for their enthusiasm and dedication. Their efforts and aspirations are truly valued, and we encourage them to continue striving for excellence in their endeavours.

We are pleased to announce that Hunter Howe and Natasha Williams have accepted the positions of College Captain, and Elliott Stee and Nena Timsar have accepted the Deputy Captain positions. We are excited to be working with these students.

This week, we welcome the second stage of applications with the opportunity for students to apply for House Captains for our six Houses: Fitzroy, Penola, Rice, Sion, Tenison and Waterford. Successful applicants will work closely with the House Leaders in each of these areas to foster positive House spirit and to facilitate a range of House based events. Applicants shortlisted will share their ideas and inspirations during this Friday’s House Assemblies, followed by an interview with House Leaders and me early next week.

The third and final stage of the Student Leadership application process will be for anyone in Year 10 or Year 11 to apply for Committee Captain positions. Each committee has been carefully chosen to support the wide ranging endeavours of student engagement. Leaders in these spaces work closely with students from younger grades to promote initiatives and events in each of the respective areas.

We thank all of our applicants for their commitment to student life at MacKillop Catholic College. Whether they hold a specific position of leadership, or importantly, demonstrate their leadership capacity through their daily interactions with peers and school life, we hope that their participation in this process has helped to develop them further in their leadership aspirations and we look forward to working in partnership with them as we move into next term and the year beyond.

Kim Rowlands
Director of Pastoral Care

Religious Education

Blessed Carlo Acutis

Last week we had a holy relic of Blessed Carlo Acutis visiting our College.

Carlo was a young man who died on 12 October 2006 who is soon to be made a saint by the Catholic Church, probably next year. We have also been hosting an exhibition of Eucharistic miracles that was put together by Carlo himself. This has been a very special opportunity for staff and students to venerate this holy relic by sitting in quiet prayer in our St Joseph’s chapel.  You are invited to also write prayers that will then be taken back to his tomb in Assisi in Italy. Many students have had the opportunity to learn more about Carlo, the relic and the exhibition in their Theology and Spirituality classes.

What can we learn from Blessed Carlo Acutis?

Firstly, he was just like you, a young person who was interested and involved in all the same things young people are, hanging out with his friends, playing sport, gaming, he was curious about the world and its meaning.

It is cool to develop your whole self not just parts of your nature

At a young age Carlo developed a devotion to Jesus, the spirit of Jesus, the presence of Jesus was something very real for him. He wanted always to be close to God, he felt drawn to the spiritual and saw no separation between developing his mind and body and growing his spirituality, his faith.

He had experienced the peace and love of God in Mass and so he went often to church. He saw praying before the blessed sacrament and having the Eucharist as the most important thing in his life and he wanted everyone he knew to experience this same peace, hope and love that he knew. This was like breathing for him.

Kindness Matters

Carlo helped others, he was actively involved in works of charity and service, from his own money, giving up his time to help the poor in his community, even though he was only young. He did not leave it to others. Carlo believed we are all called to be saints – to flourish, to be our best selves and be truly happy! He is known to have said if you spend time in the sun you will develop a tan if you spend time with Jesus you will become a saint.

Diagnosed with an aggressive Leukemia at a young age he knew he was going to die and so devoted his time to cataloguing all the eucharistic miracles (these are miracles that have occurred in connection with the Eucharist all over the world). He developed a website and later this became a touring exhibition that has been visiting our school. God loves each of us personally and uniquely we are called to flourish, if we stay connected to the source of all love, we will grow to be more like that love.

Thank you for the gift of The Exhibition and Holy Relic

I wish to thank the staff of the TCEO, Father Remery and especially Leanne Prichard who have supported our students to get the most out of the experience. Thank you to students and staff who have entered the experience with respect, openness and a healthy curiosity? It has been beautiful to see our community give space in their hearts to consider what the example and life of Carlo has to offer?

Soon to be the first millennial saint, a young person who lived an integrated life of faith. Who remains a role model for us to make room in our lives for a God who truly loves us and wants us to be free and happy all of the time.

Here are some take aways from Blessed Carlo’s life:

Step one: Learn about Jesus for yourself, read about Jesus in the Gospels. Don’t rely on what others say about him, find out for yourself.
Step Two: Pray often make it a habit it is an oasis of hope. Learn about the Eucharist.
Step Three: Serve others out of love.

Catherine Sandric
Learning Leader - Religious Education

Careers and Pathways

Dr Karl Presentation

Recently, Mr Cooke, Mr Quinn and I took a group of students to see Dr Karl present at Town Hall about a range of upcoming opportunities and careers in the future of STEM. Dr Karl touched on a series of topics from chemistry to artificial intelligence, global warming, all the way through to 3D printers creating organs for transplanting!

This presentation was a wonderful opportunity for students to be excited about the future of STEM globally and on a local scale. Those who follow Dr Karl know he is a very amusing and often wacky presenter, which really entertained our students, although, Mr Cooke, Mr Quinn and I were quite surprised at the number of students who didn’t know who Dr Karl was! After this excursion, they certainly now know who he is and have all spoken about how much they enjoyed the event. 

TasFire Visit

The recruitment team from TasFire will be visiting the College on Friday 27 September to run a careers presentation and a few interactive activities. We have spaces left for a few more students to attend so please reach out to me if you are in Years 10-12 and are interested in attending.

Work Experience During Exam Period

Year 11 and 12 students who will not have any TASC examinations during the end of year period are strongly encouraged to seek out a work experience opportunity. From study week through to the examination period, this is a great time to go on work experience as if you have no exams, you will be free during this time. 

If you would like some assistance in organising work experience, please come and have a chat with me in the Careers Office.

UTAS Open Day

On Sunday 15 September, UTAS will be holding their Open Day at the Sandy Bay Campus. Senior students who are interested in a university pathway are encouraged to attend the event to chat with academics about their areas of interest or have a talk with the Tasmanian Recruitment Team for any generally questions about university

Careers Office Bookings

A reminder to all students and families that the Careers Office is open for bookings and they can be made via the following link:

Sarah Gurney
Program Leader - Careers and Pathway Planning

Science Week

National Science Week Activities

National Science Week at our school was a resounding success, filled with engaging and educational activities that captivated students of all ages. Here’s a recap of the exciting events we hosted:

Daily Science Quiz

Every day, students were challenged to participate in a science quiz. Congratulations to our top three winners:

• First Place: Henry Fraser
• Second Place: George Fraser
• Third Place: Logan Elliot

A special mention goes to Henry, who narrowly beat his younger brother George on the final quiz day!

Paper Airplane Competition

This year’s paper airplane competition saw our largest turnout yet! Students competed to see whose airplane could fly the longest distance. Congratulations to our winners:

Furthest Distance

• First Place: Elijah George
• Second Place: Josh Donato
• Third Place: Hayden Woods

Longest Flight Time

• First Place: Cameron Deep
• Second Place: Jeremy Truong
• Third Place: Daniel Jetson

Sustainability Poster Competition

Aligned with this year’s theme of sustainability, we received numerous entries for our poster competition. The deadline for submissions is August 30th, and we can’t wait to see the creative ideas our students have come up with.

Lunchtime Activities

Lunchtime was buzzing with a variety of science activities that drew enthusiastic participation from students. Activities included:

• Paper airplane making sessions
• DNA extractions
• Titration competitions
• Electroplating
• Exploding watermelons

International Chemistry Quiz

Our Year 10 Physical Science and Year 11/12 Physical Science classes took part in the International Chemistry Quiz, tackling mind-bending chemistry problems and showcasing their scientific prowess.

Year 4 and 5 Visits

We were thrilled to welcome Year 4 and 5 students to our school. Our Year 8 students, under the guidance of Mrs Alison Stevens and the science team, taught them about body systems and how to use microscopes. It was heartwarming to see the Year 8 students engaging so well with the younger students, making it a fantastic learning experience for all involved. Thanks to our teachers Mrs Whitaker, Mr Fletcher, Mrs Taylor, Mr Smith and Mr Feery for giving your time to this initiative. Special thanks as well to our lab techs Mrs Smith and Mr Roberts. Their help in setting up the activities was greatly appreciated.

National Science Week was a fantastic celebration of science, curiosity, and learning. A big thank you to all the students, teachers, and staff who made it possible!

Fred O'Leary
Learning Leader - Science

Geography and History Competitions

In May this year, we had students across Years 7-11 sit the Geography and History competitions. I am always excited to see students put their hands up (or be nominated by their teachers) for these extra-curricular activities to enhance their knowledge and understanding of all things HaSS. These competitions are great extension activities for all students, and I encourage everyone who participated to sign up again next year to improve their results.

I would like to recognise the following students who participated in these competitions. They will receive their certificates during their HaSS class in the coming weeks.

Geography Competition

• Eamon O’Leary (Participation)
• Samuel Braid (Participation)
• Eamon Genys (Participation)
• Ewan Hurst (Participation)
• Sam Tracey (Participation)
• Lillian Latham (Participation)
• Isabella Patten (High Distinction)
• Stella England (Participation)
• Elliott Stee (Distinction and recipient of the Geography Big Week Out prize)

History Competition

• Ellenore Maynard (Participation)
• Eamon O’Leary (Participation)
• Samuel Braid (Credit)
• Harry Bryant (Participation)
• Maxwell Caesar (Participation)
• Eamon Genys (Participation)
• Jai Hand (Participation)
• Archie Harris (Participation)
• Madeline Iles (Credit)
• Mitchell Scott (Merit)
• Hamish Zegveld (Merit)
• Ayla Beatson (Participation)
• Jack Burley (Merit)
• Noah Capaci (Merit)
• Logan Elliott (Credit)
• Mikayla English (Merit)
• Lillian Latham (Merit)
• Austin Osborne (Merit)
• Isabella Patten (Merit)
• Owen Thristan (Credit)
• Stella England (Credit)
• Elliott Stee (High Distinction)
• Carolyn Townsend (Distinction)

Jacinta Pearce
Learning Leader - HaSS

Performing Arts

School Musical 2025 – School of Rock

We are a year out from our 2025 musical, School of Rock. Last week the team got together and discussed the audition process and started planning the schedule for next years rehearsals. Today at lunchtime in the music room we held an information session for the students - performers, musicians, and backstage crew. We encourage all students who are interested to ask any questions to find out about this awesome opportunity. You won’t regret it. Rock on!

Anna Cato
Teacher & Program Leader

Information Evening for Sunshine Coast Dance Eisteddfod 2025

Students enrolled in Dance for 2025 in Years 9, 10, 11, and 12, along with their families, are invited to an information evening regarding the Sunshine Coast Dance Eisteddfod school trip. The evening will take place on Thursday, 5 September 2024, at 5:30 pm in the Rice Resource Centre (College Library - Tenison Building).

During the evening, we will provide detailed information about the trip, and there will be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

If you have any questions in advance, please feel free to contact me at rwilliams@mackillop.tas.edu.au. 

Rachel Williams
Co-Learning Leader - The Arts

Visual Art and Media Studies

On Thursday last week our senior Visual Art and Media Studies student took an excursion into Hobart to view the annual Hadley's Art Prize at the Hadley's Orient Hotel. The Hadley's is Australia's richest landscape art prize with the winner enjoying a $100,000 first prize.

MacKillop students were lucky enough to have a guided tour of the exhibition, looking at the many varied responses to the land by the artists evident in each work. Students were able to vote for their favourite work in the People's Choice Award category. The Hadley's Art Prize is free to enter and open until 25 August.

In the afternoon students walked to the waterfront to have a guided tour of the School of Creative Arts at UTAS. We were shown through the amazing creative arts spaces and in awe of the superb resources available to the tertiary students studying there. Fascinated students were walked and talked through the Media and film studios, metal sculpture, furniture and ceramics workshops and the life drawing, painting, photography and printmaking areas. It was a wonderful opportunity to observe creatives just like themselves enjoying exploring their creativity and developing their personal practice in a post school context. 

Lincoln Beddoe 
Teacher

Year 10 RYDA Day

On Monday 12 August, our Year 10 students and their HPE teachers participated in RYDA day. The program provides students with the tools and understanding to become active and responsible road citizens, playing an important role in creating the habits and motivation to stay safe on our roads as passengers and drivers throughout their lives.

Activities were delivered as discussion style workshops on road safety, and were led by a team of RYDA facilitators. These facilitators included Police, driving instructors and other community sector specialists.

The workshops covered a number of topics, such as understanding how personality impacts risk taking, buying a safe car, maintaining a safe car, and developing strategies to be more prepared for making good decisions on the road.

Families are encouraged to visit the Road Safety Education website below to understand more about the risks to young drivers and many other guides and resources available to you for your child’s road safety education.

MacKillop students have attended RYDA for many years now, and will be attending for many years to come!

Amy Williamson
Teacher Assistant

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