McAuley College Grafton eNewsletter

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers, Staff and Students,

OPALs and Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews

At this point of the term, students should be settled into the routine of school, know and follow the class expectations and be working on their study habits. OPAL (Ongoing Participation and Application Log) scores will be released in week 8 to give parents and students some feedback on how they are progressing in their efforts this term. Students and parents either celebrate their results or set goals to improve. Parents and students are invited to discuss progress with teachers at the term 1 interviews, which will be held on Tuesday 2nd April in the College Hall between 3.40pm and 6.30pm and we look forward to welcoming you on the night. Here are some suggestions of questions you could ask your child’s teacher.

What is my child learning?
How is she or he doing?
How do you know how he or she is doing?
How can she or he improve?
What supports can I provide and can you provide if she or he is struggling? When can we check in again?

(from Clarity - What Matters Most in Learning, Teaching, and Leading by Lyn Sharratt, 2019)

Parent Forum Night

Our first Parent Forum evening will be held on Tuesday 26th March 2024 from 5.30pm for a 6.00pm start, finishing by 7.30pm. We will also offer parents & carers the opportunity to join the gathering via Zoom. The Parent Forum is one way you can be involved in your child’s education and find out what is happening in the College, meet other parents, provide feedback and ask questions. Each evening has a focus session and this term we will introduce the Parent Forum and the Parent Assembly arm of the group, and seek feedback on ways we can engage parents in the College and build our community.

Open Night and Enrolments for 2025

We have started our marketing campaign for our 2025 enrolments and the promotion of Open Night on Tuesday 9th April, which is being held in Catholic Education Week. Open Night is a great opportunity for prospective and current families to tour the College, view the classrooms and specialty rooms, enjoy entertainment, and meet staff and students. Please let interested families know about this evening and encourage them to come along.

Reminders

Our Staff Development Day for Term 1 is on Monday 25th March. This is a pupil-free day, and so to ensure staff can focus on the required learning, parents are asked to keep their children at home on this day.

Easter: This year the Easter break is during the term (not attached to the holidays), being 29th March - 1st April. School resumes on Tuesday 2nd April. As we head towards Easter we continue to take time in the season of Lent to pray, give to others and fast. Let us continue to think beyond ourselves and find ways to make a difference in the lives of others around us.

Congratulations

Congratulations to all the students who have been trialling for Diocesan and CSNSW competitions. The sports article in this newsletter highlights so many achievements and I congratulate the many students who have been selected in their respective sports at these higher levels. We have some very talented students at the College and are very proud of your achievements!

Another great article this week is the news from the Classroom and Excursions. Students across the year groups have been doing some amazing activities - from learning experiences in the field to fundraising for Caritas. These activities contribute to our Mission of developing the whole person through a range of experiences.

Enjoy the fortnight ahead

Kind regards,

Kate

Kate Thomson
Principal

“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

Catherine McAuley

Learning & Teaching (AP)

Learning and Teaching

NAPLAN

We're pleased to announce that NAPLAN testing for Year 7 and Year 9 students has been completed. Despite some absences, the process went smoothly. Catchup tests for those students who were away will occur throughout this week.

As diagnostic tests, NAPLAN simply provides a snapshot of students' literacy and numeracy levels at a given time. Teachers use the results to support and extend students so they get the most out of their learning. Thanks to our students for their active participation and the PDHPE department for providing the hall for the tests. I want to express my special appreciation to Mrs Leanne McLennan, whose organisation and calm approach were invaluable.

OPALS

Students in Years 7-11 will receive their Term 1 OPAL grades at the end of week 8.

OPAL grades reflect each student's participation and application across all curriculum areas. At McAuley Catholic College, we are committed to fostering self-motivated learners, and these grades allow students to reflect on their progress and set goals for the future.

We encourage parents to talk with their children about their OPAL grades. Here are some questions you may find helpful to facilitate this discussion:

How are you doing with your learning? This question invites students to reflect on their overall progress and identify areas of strength and improvement.
How can you improve? Encouraging students to think critically about ways to enhance their learning experience empowers them to take ownership of their education.
Where do you go for help? Reminding students of the available resources and support systems reinforces the importance of seeking assistance when needed and fosters a sense of community within the school environment.

Parents can play a vital role in supporting their child's academic journey and encouraging a growth mindset by engaging in these conversations.

Thank you for your continued support in this endeavour.

Assessment

Assessment tasks are also typically due as we approach the end of the term. Parents and students can use the assessment calendar to plan focus areas and make quality use of the time leading to an assessment task. The curriculum handbook for each year level advises what steps to take if you are absent on the day of an assessment.

Discussing the nature of the task and looking at the marking criteria with your child is an excellent way for you, as parents, to engage with your child's learning.

Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences

Our next opportunity to work with parents will be the 7-11 Parent-Teacher-Student Conference on April 2nd. Please keep the date free so you can come to the College, meet your child's teachers, and work with them and your child to set learning goals for the year. Booking will be made available soon.

Di McGowan
Assistant Principal - Learning & Teaching

Mission and Wellbeing (AP)

Uniform

As we are still waiting for uniform items to be delivered, students must adhere to the uniform requirements that can be controlled. Please ensure the following:

If a student cannot wear the full and correct uniform:

Students are to bring a note signed by a parent/guardian to school explaining the uniform issue. The note is countersigned by the HR teacher or Year Co-ordinator or Assistant Principal. This note is then presented to the office where the uniform pass is noted in Compass for teachers to see. If the student is wearing a non-uniform item that is deemed unacceptable an alternative item of clothing will be offered to the student or parents will be contacted to rectify the situation.

Students in incorrect uniform without an explanation from parents/carers will be placed on uniform detention.

If a student is unable to wear the correct sport uniform:

Students are to wear their full school uniform with a signed explanatory note and change into appropriate alternative sports gear before sport / PE. If the student is wearing a non-uniform item that is deemed unacceptable an alternative item of clothing will be offered to the student or parents will be contacted to rectify the situation.

Representing the College:

All students representing the College are expected to be dressed in the correct school uniform as directed on information notes that are sent home before any event. Students representing the College in sporting events are to leave the College in full sports uniform. If students cannot abide by this expectation they will be withdrawn from the representative group.

Sports uniform for PE/Pass/SLR/Drama lessons:

Students may wear their sports uniform on days they have a scheduled practical PDHPE/PASS lesson. Students will be advised at the beginning of the year by their class teachers when their practical lessons will be.

All students are to wear full school uniform every Wednesday and on days they do not have a timetabled practical lesson.

PE & PASS students can wear their sports uniform when they have a practical lesson - as indicated on their timetable as HALL.

Wednesday is a formal uniform day for all students.

Drama students are to change into their PE uniform (or shorts etc). This will be in the P1 Toilets and change room.

SLR students are to change into their PE uniform. This will be in the Hall toilets & change room.

GEM students are to change into their PE uniform. (Some of these students may require a uniform pass as discussed with Sophie/Tahnee). Change will be in the Hall toilets & change room

Students training on a day that they don't have PE or PASS prac, change into their sports uniform

Senior students are to wear their formal uniform every day except Thursday.

Year 10 and seniors who have a Yr 10 shirt can wear them on sports day only.

Practical subjects - Tech, Science, VET: When PE/PASS/etc prac falls on the same day as Tech, Science, VET Prac: Students are to bring their appropriate footwear and or clothing (eg boots) OR they can wear their formal uniform for practical work and change into sport uniform

School hats and caps:

The College has a Sun-Protection Policy in which the dangers of exposure to the sun and the requirements of the school are pointed out. Students should wear hats or caps at all times when they are exposed to the sun. These can be purchased from the McAuley Catholic College Uniform Shop (proudly managed by P&C Uniforms) or via the online website. There are 2 types to select from: navy cap and navy bucket hat.

Graffitied and modified hats are not permitted and will be deemed as incorrect uniform, in which case students will need to purchase a new replacement hat.

Hair:

For both boys and girls, hair is to be well-groomed and tidy. Long hair over the collar must be tied back. Ribbons and other hair ties are to be in school colours. Extremes of hairstyle, including extremes of colours, are not permitted. Boys must be clean-shaven.

Mullets, mullets with shaved sides, undercuts, steps, cuts less than a number two, streaks, noticeable dyes and gel or styling products are examples of haircuts that do not meet the requirements of the College policy.

Make-up:

Make-up is not to be worn and fingernails are not to have coloured nail polish.

Jewellery:

Because of uniform requirements and safety factors and to guard against breakage or loss, the wearing of jewellery is restricted. Students may wear a wristwatch, a single neck chain, one simple ring and one bangle. Students may wear a maximum of two sleepers or studs in each ear. These are to be small, plain earrings.

Not permitted: Neckbands, as well as wrist and ankle-chains and ankle-bands, leather jewellery, visible facial piercings (such as nose, eyebrow, tongue, lip). Only clear nose spacers are permitted

Students may be asked to stay home until uniform issues are rectified.

Excess jewellery will be confiscated by staff and returned at the discretion of the Assistant Principal or Pastoral Care Coordinator. All care will be taken, but no responsibility accepted.

Mobile Phones

Please reinforce with your child our Mobile Phone Policy. The following outlines the procedures for students:

Phones must be turned off upon arrival at school in the morning and may be switched on again after classes at 3.10pm.
Students are welcome to leave their phone in the office each day or place on the teacher's desk / phone tub each lesson
If parents or carers must make contact during school hours this must be done in the usual manner through the School Office.
Students must not lend their phones to other students during school hours.
Students can only use their phone with a teacher's permission, for example when used for educational purposes during a lesson, using eftpos at the canteen and office.
After 3.10pm, while being supervised on school grounds, students may use their phone to listen to music, check messages and make calls. However, they cannot take photos or videos.

Please note: The following is deemed an unacceptable use of mobile phones and similar devices - (this list is not exhaustive and therefore not limited to the following):

Accessing social media (such as but not limited to facebook, instagram, snapchat and other similar platforms), taking of photos and videos, text messaging, phone calls, facetime or similar, accessing apps, streaming movies, listening to music etc
The following is an extract from the Terms and Conditions section of the College Enrolment form signed by parents/guardians:

1.3 The Parent/Guardian agrees not to engage in social media or allow children to engage in social media that disparages or brings the school or its employees into disrepute. Further the Parent/Guardian acknowledges the right of the school to suspend or terminate an enrolment in the event that social media statements are made that defame or disparage the school, employees or the Roman Catholic Church.

Mission

On Thursday last week, our Yr 10 students gathered to plant a tree in our Memorial Garden in recognition of a former student, Kaden Danks-Brown, who left us too soon. His mother and grandmother gathered with us as students and staff reflected on Kaden’s life. Ollie Godfrey shared some memories of his time at the College and Rob Imeson played a song he had written. We have planted a beautiful bottlebrush tree which we hope will flourish in the memory of not only Kaden but his sister Sharna who is resting peacefully with him.

Kathy Warby
Assistant Principal - Mission and Wellbeing

From the Classroom, Camps & Excursions

Y 7 Iluka Rainforest Excursion

On Monday 4th & Tuesday 5th March, Year 7 Geography students visited the World Heritage-listed Iluka Rainforest for their Fieldwork studies in Landscapes and Landforms. Students observed the natural and human features of this fragile environment, guided by the NSW National Park Rangers. Students practised their geographical skills and recorded data on the importance and management of this unique remnant littoral rainforest. Our sincerest thanks to our leadership and teaching staff who stepped in to ensure the fieldwork was a success- Ms Kennedy, Mrs Lee, Ms Jansons, Mrs Rodda, Mr Bowling, Ms Lane, Mrs McGowan, and Mrs Gasser. Also, a big thanks to NSW National Parks for their support and for sharing their time, expertise and knowledge in the field, allowing students to fully appreciate the landform and landscape of the Bundjalung National Park.

Year 8 Local Artefacts Lesson

Last week some of our Year 8 classes were treated to a special lesson with Mr Bowling and his Local Family Artefacts. Mr Bowling had on hand a map of the Clarence Valley dating back to the late 1800s as well as a number of items used in agriculture, around the home and in shops in the local area of Ulmarra and Tucabia. Students were challenged to guess what each item was, and estimate the year it was made and what its purpose was, with some very sleuthy historians among the class.

A big thanks to Mr Bowling for coming in and sharing these invaluable items with the class.

White Card Course

Once again, Mr Day has facilitated a group of dedicated students who have recently completed their White Card qualification! This certification is an essential requirement for those pursuing careers in the construction industry and other work placements as part of VET courses. This course was a first step in their commitment to excellence and safety in their future endeavours.

The White Card qualification equips students with vital knowledge and skills regarding workplace health and safety regulations, particularly in construction environments. It ensures they understand the risks associated with working in this field and are prepared to mitigate them effectively. By obtaining this certification, our students have demonstrated their readiness to enter the workforce with a strong foundation in safety protocols and procedures.

Europe Trip Trivia Night

On Saturday 9th March we held a Trivia Night at the GDSC to raise funds for the European Tour. Mr Montford was the MC and Mr Lobsey was the chief judge and marker. The night was attended by approximately 160 students, teachers, parents, siblings, extended family members and friends, many of whom commented how much fun they had trying to answer some very curly questions and recall obtuse facts. One highlight of the evening was the games held between trivia rounds.

The organising committee had sourced 28 raffle prizes from generous local businesses including pizza vouchers, gift packs and a hamper. Thank you to GDSC, Grafton Computer Embroidery, Repco Grafton, Cansdell Signs (Kye Masters), Tupperware (Michelle Fisher), Pure Shine Hair Design Yamba (Casey Thompson), Cakora Aesthetics, Brows and Beauty by Julie, Hair On The Channel (Nardeen Brossman), Farmer Lou, Australis Pizza, Yamba Wholefoods, Beauty (by Hannah), Hire-A-Hubby, Woodvale & Co Barbers, Red Hot Hair, Kane’s Sports, Beauty by Hannah, Buckley’s Music Grafton & Tranquil Beauty with Caitlin Peuser for their support of our Trivia Night and contributing to its success.

Thank you to all the students attending the tour for their help on the night setting up, selling raffle tickets, running the $100 clubs and collecting donations during the games. Thanks to the parents for their support, and in particular, Lee Maitz and Alison Fels. I also want to thank Tiffany Lee, Tahnee Joe, Matthew Lobsey and Alex Montford for their hard work in making the Trivia night so successful and a fun night out!

Project Compassion Year 8 RE Update

We are now approaching our final 2 weeks of Lent for 2024. As we reported in the last newsletter there has been a flurry of activity amongst Year 8 RE classes as they have applied their learning about Jesus' teachings on the Kingdom of God to their school life. Recognising that love, dignity, respect and hope are crucial for all people in all places. Year 8 has endeavoured to use their skills and give their time to serve the poor and vulnerable. Since the last update, the work of these generous youngsters has contributed nearly $1000 to Project Compassion.

One small group from 8RE4 must receive special mention as their efforts saw them raise $199 over a 30 minute lunch break. Giselle Dean, Emily Upston, Josie Chapman, Kayla Ellis, Olivia McIntyre, Macy Batinovic (see pictured) put their baking talents to fabulous use and provided a wide array of yummy treats to encourage the rest of the school community to give generously to Project Compassion. Macy's mum, Ebony, also provided 2 beautiful sourdough loaves (see pictured also) that were auctioned off to help swell the Project Compassion coffers further. It was a joy to see the girls so proud of their achievement not for themselves, but because they knew how their contribution of time and effort would demonstrate love, dignity, respect and hope to those who need it in our world today.

The collective efforts of the Year 8 cohort, the homerooms, along with the stand-alone events such as Pancake Day and Lenten Fish Fry have really injected enthusiasm and energy into Lent this year. Thank you to all those who have selflessly and heartfeltly given to others this Lent.

Year 12 Industrial Technology

Our Year 12 Timber students recently visited Big River Group for an insightful exploration of plywood manufacturing. Guided by industry experts AJ, Tory and James Hiatt, they delved into quality control, sustainability, log supply contracts, technology, and safety.

Quality control was paramount, with students witnessing the rigorous standards upheld on every section of the mill through to final product inspection. They also learned about the company's dedication to eco-friendly practices and the complexities of log supply contracts with State Forest.

Technological advancements were showcased, highlighting how innovation drives efficiency and profit in timber manufacturing.

We extend our thanks to AJ, Tory and James Hiatt for their invaluable insights. This visit not only enriched students' understanding of plywood production but also aligned perfectly with our syllabus.

Sports News

NSWCCC Tennis Selections

On Monday 4th March, Mahala Hitchings travelled and competed in the NSWCCC Tennis selections at the Parramatta City Tennis Centre. Mahala played excellent tennis and was selected for the NSWCCC Open Girls team. Mahala will now attend the NSW All Schools Tennis Championships in Bathurst. Good Luck Mahala!

Dio Rugby League & Football (Soccer) Trials

On Tuesday 5th March Liam Adkin, Mason Cone, Zaden Nipperess and Cruz Sewell travelled to St John's College Woodlawn to compete at the Lismore Diocese Rugby League trials. All students played well against some competition from across the Diocese. Congratulations to Mason Cone who was selected for the 15-year boys side. Mason will now attend the Northern NSW Selection Trials at South West Rocks in April. Good luck Mason!

On the same day students, Jasmine Chellew, Navah Crofton, Zethan Nichols and Will Tait attended and trialled for the 2024 Lismore Diocese Opens Football Girls & Boys Squads. The quality of players was exceptional and it was a very challenging day for selectors. Congratulations to Navah Crofton who, again, has gained selection into the Open Girls team. Navah now travels to Valentine Park, Glendale to compete at the NSWCCC Open Girls Football Championships. Good Luck Navah.

NSWCCC Golf Selections

On Monday 11 March, Annalese McKee travelled to Belmont to compete at the NSWCCC Golf Championships. Annalese played exceptional golf and has gained selection into the NSWCCC Golf team. Annalese will now attend the NSW All Schools Golf Championships where she will compete against NSWCIS and NSWCHS. Good luck Annalese at this next stage!

NSWCCC Cricket Selections

On the 11 March Oliver Seeto travelled to the Norm O'Neill Cricket Training Facility at Penshurst in Sydney for 15 years NSWCCC Cricket Team. After some tough competition Oliver was unable to gain selection. However, he represented our school with pride and had a great day. Congrats Oliver!

NCSS Rugby Union

On Tuesday 12th March, three McAuley Teams travelled to St John's College Woodlawn to compete at the North Coast Secondary Schools Rugby Union Competition. All students played extremely well against some strong teams from across the Diocese, fighting their way to the top with all three teams crowned the Age Champions for the day (U15s Boys, U16s Boys & U16s Girls).

Well done to our teams for their outstanding efforts, and success, and for representing the College so proudly on the day.

Dio Swimming Carnival

Our College's swimming team recently competed in the Diocesan Swimming Championship in Port Macquarie, showcasing their talent and determination. With 14 dedicated athletes, they embodied sportsmanship and achieved outstanding results. Many of our students placed in the top 3 across many events. Stella Skeels, Sophie Sutherland, Archie Pope and Hudson Batinovic all won events and have now been selected to represent the Lismore Diocese at the Combined Catholic Colleges Swimming Championships in Homebush, a testament to their hard work and skill.

Congratulations to all participants for the way they represented the College and for their commendable performance in Port Macquarie. We wish Stella, Sophie, Archie and Hudson all the best in Sydney.

Upcoming Events:

Dio Open's Soccer - Wednesday 27th March 2024
U15's Bill Turner Soccer - Thursday 28th March 2024
MCC School Cross Country - Thursday 4th April 2024

Jim Hand
Sports Coordinator

Career News

University of Newcastle Information Sessions

HSC Support Webinar for Students and Parents/Carers

"Setting up for HSC Success"

Date: 27 March 2024

Time: 7:00pm

Register Here

University of Newcastle is partnering with InspirationED to deliver a HSC Support Webinar. Embark on your HSC journey with confidence through our "Strategies for HSC Success" webinar, tailored for Year 11 and 12 students. Led by a Senior HSC Marker, this session delves into effective study techniques, exam hacks, and strategies for excelling in HSC assessment tasks.

2025 Joint Medical Program Info Session Webinar

Date: 8 May 2024

Time: 6:30pm

Register Here

The Bachelor of Medical Science and Doctor of Medicine (The JMP) is an innovative five-year degree delivered jointly with the University of New England and supported by Hunter New England Local Health District and Central Coast Local Health District. Join us for an info session to hear from Joint Medical Program academics and current students about the program, admission requirements and much more.

TAFE to Uni Webinar

Date: 22 May 2024

Time: 5:00pm

Register Here

Interested in taking your studies to the next level? Join us online to learn why TAFE and vocational qualifications are an excellent and popular pathway into the University of Newcastle. Tune in to meet our admissions staff and student ambassadors. You will learn about what it’s like studying at our University, TAFE and other vocational qualifications, entry pathways, how to apply, scholarships, jobs on campus, support and services and more!

Y10 Subject Selection Webinar for Parents and Students

Date: 29 May 2024

Time: 6:00pm

Register Here

Our student ambassadors will share key subject selection information and share their stories and experiences with subject selection and transition to University studies.

Mid-Year Info Session

Date: 5 June 2024

Time: 5:00pm

Register Here

If you have questions about studying an undergraduate with us from Semester 2, we're here to help! We're hosting an online info session and invite you to join us. If you've recently had a gap year, completed TAFE or similar or have been working and are looking to retrain or make a career change, this session provides you with a number of opportunities to learn more about studying at the University of Newcastle.

University Admission Center (UAC) Information

Live Webinar for Parents

"ATAR Calculation to Application: A Parent's Roadmap to Uni Entry"

Date: 27 March 2024

Time: 6.00pm

Register Here

Our first LIVE webinar for the year is specifically designed for parents supporting their student's journey to higher education. Parents will learn how to navigate the application process more efficiently so that they can confidently guide students towards their university dreams. They'll receive valuable insights on course preferences, adjustment factors and selection ranks plus a detailed timeline of key dates.

This UAC Digital event will be run from several platforms, including Easy Webinar (our preferred webinar service), Facebook and Instagram. Please share the link below with parents so that they can register.

Live Webinar for Year 12 students

"ATAR to Uni Success: Applying to Uni with Ease"

Date: 3 April 2024

Time: 6.00pm

Register Here

Our expert speakers will equip students with the knowledge to make the most of their application and maximise their chances of success. Please encourage your students not to miss this opportunity to get ahead with their university application.

Careers_Information_Sessions_for_Students.pdf

Careers_Information_Sessions_for_Students _pdf 75.30 KB

Rod Paton
Careers Adviser

From the Literacy Coach

Help Your Child Become a Smoother, Better Reader

As parents, we all want our children to be strong, proficient readers who can understand and learn from texts. But did you know there is a key skill that acts as a 'bridge' to comprehension? It's called reading fluency.

Reading fluency is the ability to read texts accurately, automatically, and with proper phrasing and expression. It's not just about reading quickly, but reading smoothly and bringing words to life.

When students read in a laboured, word-by-word manner, they have to put most of their effort into just decoding the words. This leaves few cognitive resources left over to actually make meaning from what they've read. It's like their mental energy gets drained just getting the words out.

Fluent readers, on the other hand, can recognise words automatically without struggling. This allows them to focus their attention on understanding the text. Fluent readers also add expression, pausing appropriately between phrases. This expressive reading ties directly to better comprehension.

So how can we help our children develop this fluency 'bridge' to comprehension?

Extensive practice is key:

Having students reread the same passages a couple of times improves their accuracy, automaticity, phrasing and expression. It seems counterintuitive, but this repeated reading is very effective.
Students also need to read many different texts independently at their instructional level to expand their reading expertise across texts.

At school, teachers may have students rehearse songs, poems, scripts or speeches to work on expressive reading in an engaging way. But your role at home is also crucial.

You can help build fluency by:

Having your child reread favourite stories or passages multiple times, praising improved smoothness and expression
Listening to them read out loud and providing feedback about phrasing
Reading aloud to them often to model fluent, expressive reading

Reading fluency may seem like a basic skill, but it provides the essential bridge to the larger goal of reading comprehension. With regular practice and support, we can set our children up to become the proficient readers we all want them to be.

Rasinski, T. V. (2012). Why reading fluency should be hot! The Reading Teacher, 65(8), 516-522.

Lena Jansons
Literacy Coach

Dates to Note for March & April

March

19th - 22nd: NAPLAN Catch Ups Yr 7 & 9

20th: Yr 9 Geography (9.1 + 9.2) - Tea Tree Farm Visit

21st - 22nd: LEAD

21st: Yr 11 SLR - Lawn Bowls GDSC

Harmony Day

22nd: Yr 9 Geography (9.3 + 9.4) - Tea Tree Farm Visit

25th: Staff Development Day - Pupil Free Day (School Closed)

26th: Yr 10 School Vaccinations

Northern NSW AFL Trials Feighan Oval, Warners Bay

27th: Opens Dio Football (Soccer) - Lismore

28th: Easter Liturgy Assembly

U15’S Bill Turner Cup Soccer MCC Oval

29th: Good Friday Public Holiday (School Closed)

April

1st: Easter Monday Public Holiday (School Closed)

2nd: Yr 7-11 Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences

Training North Country Rugby League, South West Rocks

3rd: North Country Rugby League, South West Rocks

3rd - 27th: European Tour 2024

4th: MCC Cross Country

4th - 5th: Transitus (Yr 7)

5th: School Photos Yr 7-10

Diocesan Netball U15s & U18s Trials, Sport Central Coffs Harbour

8th - 10th: CCC Touch Football, Central Coast Regional Sporting & Recreation Complex

9th: MCC Open Night

10th: Yr12 Biology Solitary Islands Aquarium Excursion

2025 Enrolment Applications Open

12th: Last day of Term 1

15th - 26th: School Holidays

25th: ANZAC Day

29th: First Day of Term 2

School Photos 2024

Dates:

Term 1: Friday, 5th April 2024 (Yr 7-10 Only)

Term 2: Tuesday, 30th April 2024 (Yr 11-12, Staff & Catch Ups)

Your 2024 school photos are now ready to order through the Compass Portal. To place your order, make sure you have your login details handy!

If you're unsure of your login details, please contact the school for assistance.

Click here to get started!

Once you've logged in, you'll need to follow a few easy steps!

Click here for our simple, online ordering guide.

Once you have placed your Individual Photo order you can place your Sibling photo order, these MUST be ordered before midnight prior to photo day.

Please remind your child that they are having their photos taken. If they are having a sibling photo, all siblings will need to be ready for their photo at the allocated time set by the school.

Please note that after 9/05/2024 an archive fee of $15.00 will apply.

If you have any questions regarding the photography service or packages available for purchase, please contact our friendly team on 02 6583 1968 or by email northcoast@msp.com.au

Get your smiles ready!

Kind Regards,

MSP North Coast
02 6583 1968
NORTHCOAST@MSP.COM.AU
www.msp.com.au

Year 7 & 10 Vaccinations Reminder

Dates

Term 1: NEXT WEEK Tuesday 26th March 2024

Year 10 Students ONLY:

Nimenrix (Meningococcal ACWY) 1 dose only

Term 2: Tuesday 21st May 2024

All Year 7 Students:

Gardasil (HPV) 1 Dose Only
Boostrix (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis-whooping cough) 1 dose only

Term 3: Wednesday 11th September 2024

Catchups for Year 7 & 10 (late form submission/ absentees)

Consent for School Vaccinations

Consent for each vaccine must be provided by parents/guardians for students to receive free vaccinations at school.

From 2024 parents/guardians can provide consent online for their child’s routine school vaccinations on the online consent portal. Select login with Service NSW Account.

To provide online consent you will need:

your Service NSW log-in details
Medicare card details for you and your child.

Read a step-by-step guide on how to provide consent online.

If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper-based consent form – available on request from the College.

Parents can withdraw consent at any time before vaccination takes place:

where consent has been given online, please log-in to the secure NSW Health portal and follow the prompts to withdraw consent, or
where consent has been given on the physical consent form, please write to the College to advise the student's name, school grade and those vaccines the withdrawn consent applies to.

The procedure for Withdrawal of consent is available on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation and it is also outlined in the user guide.

Changes to Vaccinations for 2024

Ø Gardasil (HPV) is now a 1 x dose schedule and will only be available as a school-based program to Year 7 students. Year 8 students who consented for their vaccination in Year 7 at school, and did not receive the vaccine, will be offered a catch up during 2024– names will be supplied from Health NSW to the College before each clinic.

Ø Boostrix is only available to Year 7 students. It is a single dose. Year 8 students who consented for their vaccination in Year 7 at school, and did not receive the vaccine, will be offered a catch up during 2024– names will be supplied from Health NSW to the College before each clinic.

Ø Nimenrix (Meningococcal ACWY) – only to Year 10 students. It is a single dose. Year 11 students who consented for their vaccination in Year 10 at school, and did not receive the vaccine, will be offered a catch up during 2024– names will be supplied from Health NSW to the College before each clinic.

Ø To improve vaccination completion, students will be opportunistically offered any missed doses throughout the year where possible.

Education Material For Students - THE HPV PROGRAM:

Parent Support & Education

Clear Minds, Healthy Lives: Choose Vape Free

Parent Information: Understanding Vaping

Vaping continues to be a concerning issue for families, schools and communities who are committed to the health and wellbeing of young people. The government has introduced new laws that will ban the importation of vapes, including refillable products, from 1 March 2024, unless importers hold a licence and these vapes will only be sold in pharmacies to users with a prescription. However, current stockpiles and illegal sales will continue to pose a threat to the health of those young people who choose to vape.

Parents and schools can work together to support young people to make healthy choices and we encourage parents to be part of our school’s campaign to promote the message, Clear Minds, Healthy Lives: Choose Vape-Free. Please read our regular series of articles aimed at informing, supporting and equipping our parents about this issue.

Please see the parent information flyer below with a brief explanation of vaping and its impact. Read and have some conversations with your child about vaping. Some conversation starters could include:

1. Are a lot of kids vaping at your school? Are your friends vaping?

Be sure you don’t react, just listen.

2. What do you think about vaping?

You may hear your child say that vaping is harmless. It’s important to share some good information with your child about the impacts of vaping.

3. Do you know what is in vapes?

Share with them that they’ve tested vapes and they do not contain only water vapour and flavouring. Vapes can contain very high levels of nicotine and other toxic chemicals that damage lungs.

Vaping_Parent_Information_Infographic_1_.pdf

Vaping_Parent_Information_Infographic_1 pdf 206.62 KB

Uniform Reminder

Parents and carers who have ordered the new College uniform are reminded to please collect their orders from the onsite store during trading hours as there are a number of uniforms ready to be collected.

If you need further assistance with this process please contact the MCC Uniform Shop via the contact form below.

Contact the Uniform Shop

Tradings Hours:

Tuesday 8.30am-9.30am

Thursday 2.30pm-3.30pm

College Carpark

As per communication sent to Parents via Compass on Friday 8th March, we ask our Parents and Carers to please avoid double parking within the College carpark.

We understand that parking within this area is limited and can get congested at the end of the school day but there is plenty of available parking outside the school fence you are welcome to utilise instead to ensure the safety of everyone.

Cars that are double parked will be asked to move on.

Thank you for your understanding.

Canteen News

Important Parent Message

A friendly request to our parents and carers who order through FlexiSchools App -

when placing orders online for your child's lunch we ask that you make them aware that you have done so and the items that have been ordered for them. This will save confusion and disappointment when they come to collect their orders during the break.

Thank you for your co-operation and understanding!

From the Canteen

We are proud of our canteen menu and work hard to offer nutritious meals; many being made fresh in-house daily. We also cater for special dietary requirements (please ask).

We work with our suppliers to purchase goods at the best possible prices, but unfortunately, prices on certain lines have increased and we have had to pass on some of these increases.

On offer daily are a variety of freshly made sandwiches, rolls, wraps and salad bowls along with our regular pie warmer staples.

On Mondays, we offer Lasagna, hotdogs and pizza;
Tuesday - beef burgers and crispy chicken wraps;
Wednesday - sushi and other Asian delights, and meatball subs
Thursday - chicken burgers and nachos;
Friday - butter chicken, fisherman’s basket, nuggets & chips, oven-fried chicken & chips, chicken schnitzel on Turkish

Breakfast is available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 am and features bacon and egg muffins, pancakes, croissants, toast, hot chocolate and hash browns when available.

The fridge is full of canteen-approved drinks including no-sugar mineral water, kombucha, milk, and juice to name a few. We also have frozen icy poles and ice creams.

EFTPOS facilities are available (except for American Express) and lunch orders can be placed before 9 am. Our menu is available on the school website and on the canteen window. The College also offers lunch orders online through the Flexischools app. Please see the attached flyer to get started.

Flexischools_orientation_flyer_2_.pdf

Flexischools_orientation_flyer_2 pdf 799.90 KB

Canteen Menu 2024

2024_Canteen_menu.pdf

2024_Canteen_menu _pdf 181.76 KB

Tracey, Cheryl and Kim