Primary News
Term 1, Week 10, 2024
Term 1, Week 9, 2024
Second Sunday of Easter
Gospel Acclamation:
Jn 20:29 “You believe in me Thomas, because you have seen me; happy are those who have not seen me but still believe.”
Dear Parents and Carers,
Message from the Principal
The Empty Tomb is a symbol for Christians that Jesus is Risen! The apostle to the Apostles is Mary Magdalene, a friend and disciple of Jesus. It is she – along with Mary, the mother of James – who sees Jesus first in his resurrected form. When a name is written in the Bible, it has enormous significance, and given the role of women in the first century, this elevation of women in the Early Church is even greater. Mary is entrusted to tell the disciples to go and meet Him in Galilee. Father Philip, in his Easter Homily, spoke about the importance of the place Galilee to Jesus. It was the place He started His ministry; it was where He performed many miracles of healing and abundance, and it is where He gathered His original disciples. In this Easter Season, our Galilee is where we are! It is in our family and workplace, our sportsclubs and celebrations, it is in our daily encounters. Every day, we have an opportunity to live our faith with the hope and joy it provides and share it openly with those around us.
We are Easter people!
Wellbeing Projects
Late in 2023, MCC was the recipient of a Commonwealth grant to support Wellbeing and pastoral initiatives across the College. The National Student Wellbeing Program provides financial support for the implementation of programs, resources and strategies that enhance the wellbeing of the students in our care. Seasons for Growth, Second Steps, Rock & Water, the Resilience Project, 3-2-1 Magic and PALs are some of the programs that are currently delivered at MacKillop. Some of these programs target students in specific ways, such as overcoming grief and trauma, and social skills that enable improved socialisation and engagement. Some programs bring parents and children together to tackle family and parenting strategies. Other programs are beneficial for all students and highlight skills for self-regulation, stress management and the acknowledgement of gratitude.
The Resilience Project is a program developed by Hugh Cuylenburgh using the GEM model to reflect on acts of Gratitude, Empathy, and Mindfulness. This highly successful program has been used with a variety of groups, from elite sports to big business, to bring about change in group culture. At the beginning of 2024, I invested in a Resilience Project, ‘Six Month Journal,’ to allow myself to fully engage with the program, and it has become part of my daily practice to end each day. Our Year 6 to Year 12 students have also engaged with lessons and a reflection journal. We recently collected some initial data and will collect more later in the program to assess the success of the program.
I am reminded that as Catholics, through the Awareness Examen, we are called to contemplate similar acts of Gratitude, Compassion and Prayer. I hope that our young people and staff may begin to see the benefits of regular practices of daily reflection to bring about clarity, self-regulation and peace as a way to tackle the challenges of daily life.
If you would like more information about the programs offered at MCC, please contact Mrs Kath Ardern, Mrs Kellie Dennemann or Mrs Christine Newell through the MacKillop email.
Enrolments for Year 7 2025
The transition from Primary to Secondary school is relatively smooth for MacKillop people, but I would like to remind parents of children currently in Year 6 to book their interview time promptly. As the recent Open Day and soon the Taster Day occur, we are well aware of the increasing number of students we need to accommodate in our Year 7 cohort. Please make these arrangements through schoolinterviews.com.au. See the PDFs and Letter from Mrs Appleby below for more information.
Term 1, Week 8, 2024
SUNDAY of the RESURRECTION
Gospel Acclamation:
Lk 24:13-35 “They recognised him in the breaking of the bread”
Dear Parents and Carers,
Message from the Principal
The Easter long weekend is a mini break from the structure of our busy lives. For many, it signals a final summer camp or a road trip to relatives before the change of weather or the arrival of winter sporting competitions. For Christians and all Catholics, the weekend is all about gathering at Mass and giving thanks for the life, death and Resurrection of Jesus through the Easter Holy days.
The tradition and ceremony of each ritual allow believers to enter into the narrative of the Easter Triduum. The three key days are meant to feel like one long, continuous ceremony.
Thursday night reenacts the Last Supper, the washing of the disciple’s feet and the garden of ripose symbolises Jesus’ waiting and praying in the garden. Good Friday begins with the Stations of the Cross, following the footsteps of Jesus, from his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane to his burial in a stone tomb. At 3pm, around the time of day it is thought Jesus died, the Mass focuses on The Cross and its powerful role in holding the body of Jesus in His final human moments. The Easter Vigil on Saturday night begins with the blessing of the new light as the 2024 Pascal Candle is lit for the very first time. From it, every person lights their own candle because we are called to continue to be a ‘Light for the World’, the Gloria and Alleluia return to the Mass as a sense of joyous celebration. As Easter Sunday dawns, we give thanks in many ways, exchanging gifts of Easter Eggs which symbolise new life, chocolate rabbits to show the abundance of the season (in a Northern Hemisphere spring) and perhaps a lamb roast to celebrate Jesus as our Pascal lamb. Most importantly, we spend time with family, giving thanks for the many blessings we share and traditions we hold dear.
May you spend your Easter break with those you love. Please take care on the roads and return safely to MacKillop on Wednesday, 3 April, following our Staff Development Day.
Year 6 Camp
This Term, our Year 6 Students will soon be undertaking an education tour of the national capital. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion
Harmony Day
Harmony Day is scheduled to be celebrated in Week 9 this term. Harmony Week will culminate with the entire College celebrating our inclusive and diverse community on Friday, 5 April. The theme for Harmony Week is “Everyone Belongs”.
On Friday, 5 April, students can come to school in either their cultural/traditional dress or wear orange (the official colour of Harmony Week). During Break time students in cultural dress are invited to parade in the Primary shade area and will be joined by secondary students.
This year, the College is offering a meal deal for this day, consisting of a drink and a sausage sizzle. Orders for this promotion can be placed via the Qkr App. Qkr is available for Android and Apple through the Play and App Stores. Orders must be placed before the end of the day on Thursday, 28 March.
Don’t forget your Harmony Day T-shirt (purchased via Qkr will also be delivered to your child before Friday, 5 April, in class.
Uniform
As the weather begins to change to the cooler seasons, it is time to begin planning your child’s Winter Uniform. The changeover officially begins Term 2, Week 3, on Monday, 13 May. Please refer to the Uniform Policy (link below) for accurate information. We ask that students wear one uniform completely rather than elements of both.
The uniform shop is open and is ready to receive orders for Term 2.
Positive Behaviour for Learning
Our focus continues to be on intentionally attending to our actions and behaviours and how they affect others, including the community to which we belong.
Respecting ourselves and others is one of our school rules at MacKillop.
As a community, we are called to:
- Be in the right place at the right time.
- Include others and be fair.
- Use kind words and actions.
- Care for our appearance and belongings.
Blessings for a Happy and Holy Easter,
Kerry Power
Acting Primary Principal
Term 1, Week 7, 2024
PALM SUNDAY
of the Passion of the Lord
Gospel Acclamation:
Phil 2:3-9 “Christ became obedient for us even to death, dying on a cross. Therefore, God raised him on high and gave him a name above all other names.”
Dear Parents and Carers,
Message from the Principal
This week, we enter into the most dynamic experience of the traditions and stories of the Catholic faith.
The events of Holy Week provide us with the pinnacle of our Catholic life. This Sunday, our students and families are invited to remember the final days of Jesus’ life. As we reenact the Passion of Jesus and other key parts of the Easter narrative, we are reminded of Jesus’ suffering and sacrifice. When we recall these events, we are reminded of Jesus’ position as King as the crowd called ‘Hosanna’ as he entered Jerusalem, to the intimacy of the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, followed by Jesus’ arrest and the cruelty of Good Friday. The Easter Vigil declares for us that ‘this is not the end!’ The true message of salvation is revealed in The Resurrection.
Jesus shows us in his actions that faith is the opposite of fear, and His willingness to participate in his suffering and death provides a model for our own lives. It speaks to our personal suffering and that ‘with faith, no explanation is required, but with little faith, no explanation will ever be enough.’ Jesus asks us to be faithful in our deepest suffering, even when it is connected to pain and loss. Jesus speaks to us and says, when you are suffering, I have experienced the ultimate suffering for you, and when you suffer, I suffer with you.
Our candidates for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion begin the last stage of their preparation. First Reconciliation occurs on Tuesday, 26 March, and the First Eucharist is celebrated on Sunday, 27 April. We congratulate these students and their families on this important rite of passage.
Masses in our Parish of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop during Holy Week and Easter:
Second Rite of Reconciliation Wednesday, 27 March, 6.30 pm.
Holy/Maundy Thursday, 28 March, 7.30 pm
Stations of the Cross, Good Friday, 29 March, 10 am
Veneration of the Cross Good Friday 3 pm
Easter Vigil Saturday, 31 March, 7.30 pm
Easter Sunday Masses 8 am, 10 am and 5 pm.
We hope you will consider participating in one or more of our Community celebrations.
NAPLAN
This week, our students participated in the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). It is an annual assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. Congratulations to the students and their teachers who prepared so diligently; the entire MCC community is proud of you. Please remember that this ‘snapshot of learning’ is a single method of measuring student growth and plays an important part in informing teacher planning for student success and flourishing.
Harmony Day
Harmony Day is scheduled to be celebrated in Week 9 this term. Harmony Week will culminate with the entire College celebrating our inclusive and diverse community on Friday, 5 April. The theme for Harmony Day is “Everyone Belongs”.
On Friday, 5 April, students can come to school in either their cultural/traditional dress or wear orange (the official colour of Harmony Week). During Break time students in cultural dress are invited to parade in the Primary shade area and will be joined by secondary students.
This year, the College is offering a meal deal for this day, consisting of a drink and a sausage sizzle. Orders for this promotion can be placed via the Qkr App. Qkr is available for Android and Apple through the Play and App Stores. Orders must be placed before next Thursday, 28 March.
You can also order a special Harmony Day T-shirt (purchased via Qkr also). The preorders for T-shirts close tomorrow, 22 March and will be delivered to your child before the Friday Event in class.
Vegetable Crunch
This week, I have thoroughly enjoyed speaking to our students about their favourite ‘begetables’(sic). Anecdotally, it appears that carrots and cucumbers are crowd favourites. However, some students revealed a love for broccoli and capsicum. The winning comment came from a Kindergarten student who revealed his love of lettuce… as he removes it from a burger: priceless!
Opportunities to challenge children to experience new things – even in the food they try – builds resilience and a vocabulary for expression. We are tallying the veggie count and will announce the winning House soon!
Thanks to Mrs Denneman for inspiring this initiative in our community.
Uniform
As the weather begins to change to the cooler seasons, it is time to begin planning your child’s Winter Uniform. The changeover officially begins Term 2, Week 3, on Monday, 13 May. Please refer to the Uniform Policy (link below) for accurate information. We ask that students wear one uniform completely rather than elements of both.
The uniform shop is open and is ready to receive orders for Term 2.
Reminder regarding student pickup
Afternoon pickup sees some Primary students collected by their parents or an older Secondary School sibling. These students MUST wait in the COLA area, near the Library. Students are not to walk up the Admin pathway to meet their siblings or wait in the under-croft area at the entrance to the College. This will allow for the safe and effective supervision of all students.
Mrs McGuiness will post an action on Compass to reinforce this procedure for our Secondary students.
We appreciate your support in delivering this procedure.
Positive Behaviour for Learning
Our focus continues to be on intentionally attending to our actions and behaviours and how they affect others, including the community to which we belong.
Respecting ourselves and others is one of our school rules at MacKillop.
As a community, we are called to:
- Be in the right place at the right time.
- Include others and be fair.
- Use kind words and actions.
- Care for our appearance and belongings.
Blessings for a wonderful weekend,
Kerry Power
Acting Primary Principal
Term 1, Week 6, 2024
SUNDAY
5th Sunday of LENT
Gospel Acclamation:
John 12:26 “If you serve me, follow me, says the Lord; and where I am, my servant will also be.”
Message from the Principal
Dear Parents and Carers,
Saints are ordinary people who lead extraordinary lives in the name of Jesus! Next week, we celebrate the feast days of two important saints. For those Australians who come from an Irish background St. Patrick is a very important person in faith and action. Green ribbons, Irish flags and parade attendance form part of our formed tradition. The circumstances of Patrick’s life saw him inspired to lead the Irish people to a relationship with God and the Holy Trinity through the use of a simple Shamrock. St. Patrick’s Feast Day is March 17, but due to this falling on a Sunday, we acknowledge the feast on Monday, March 18.
St Joseph is the patron of the order of Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Mary MacKillop and Fr. Julian Tennison Woods were inspired by the love and guidance of St. Joseph. I have included this extract from their website.
As we celebrate the feast of St Joseph (19 March) – Patron of the Universal Church and the Sisters of Saint Joseph – in this year dedicated to prayer and the synodal pathway, we are called to live and respond with a contemplative heart to what the Spirit is asking of us in the midst of the reality of our lives.
It is about being attentive to the signs of this time, calling us to new pathways and ways of being Church.
As the Church, the people of God, prepare our hearts and minds for the next stage of the Synod on Synodality, let us call on the wisdom and humility of St Joseph to guide the process and lead us to new life for the Church today.
Above all, Joseph was a deep listener with a contemplative heart. The process chosen for those involved has been one of ‘deep listening’ through what is known as ‘Conversations in the Spirit’. This means taking time to listen to the ‘whisperings of God’ to each one’s heart through attentive listening and responding.
In the life of Joseph, we see these elements interacting – Joseph first takes note of the reality of Mary’s pregnancy – perhaps somewhat disturbing. He ponders what this could mean for their relationship. He listens to the voice of the angel in his dreams – take Mary as your wife. He responds with a compassionate action. This cycle continues in the recorded stories in the gospel. In obedience to the law, he needs to go to Bethlehem for the census. Here he finds that there is no room in the inn. He ponders what this means and finds safety in the stable. He sees the shepherds approaching – what will this encounter mean? Whose voice do they represent in this synodal journey?
Four times Joseph is called to listen to the invitation of the Spirit in his dreams. Each response is risky, yet Joseph steps out in faith having heard God’s call in his moments of contemplation. May Joseph teach us in the year dedicated as the Year of Prayer, to bring a contemplative mindset to all our responses and actions.
Inspired by the contemplative heart of Joseph, may we be people who take time amid the hustle and bustle of life to listen deeply to our good God, to the needs and voices of our neighbour and world, and to respond as Joseph did with a generous heart. It means at times, taking a significant risk and stepping out into an unknown reality, trusting God who walked with Joseph in each situation.
In a time when our Church and our world is living in uncertain times, we take courage from Mary MacKillop who reminds us, like Joseph’s noble and generous heart, we must be burning with zeal in the service of God:
Happy feast of St Joseph.
Sr Monica Cavanagh
Congregational Leader
Bishop Anthony Randazzo is leading our Diocese of Broken Bay through a process of discernement on the The Synod on Synodailty. As MCC Principals, Mrs Appleby, Mr Lynch, and I will participate in a review of the Synod so we may express the recommendations to you. We are attending our first session of the review this weekend. Please keep us in your prayers as we listen to the recommendations of the Synod to better inform our leadership at a local level.
NAPLAN
This week, our students began the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN). It is an annual assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.
It is a nationwide measure through which parents/carers, teachers, schools, education authorities, governments and the broader community can determine whether or not young Australians are developing the literacy and numeracy skills that provide the critical foundation for other learning and for their productive and rewarding participation in the community.
NAPLAN results allow parents/carers and educators to see how students are progressing in literacy and numeracy over time – individually, as part of their school community, and against national standards.
The tests support monitoring and evaluating of the performance of schools and school systems in these fundamental capabilities. They also provide schools, states and territories with information about how education approaches are working, areas to be prioritised for improvement, and those schools requiring support in the teaching and learning of literacy and numeracy.
The results can assist teachers by providing additional information to support their professional judgement about students’ levels of literacy and numeracy attainment and progress.
NAPLAN tests are one aspect of each school’s assessment and reporting process and do not replace the extensive, ongoing assessments made by teachers about each student’s performance. Each teacher will have the best insight into their students’ educational progress. Parents/carers can use NAPLAN reports, along with other school assessment reports, to discuss their child’s strengths and areas for improvement with their teacher.
NAPLAN results do not measure overall school quality.
The assessments are undertaken nationwide every year. From 2008 to 2022, NAPLAN tests were held in May. From 2023, education ministers agreed NAPLAN tests will be held in March.
Harmony Day
Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises our diversity and brings together Australians from all different backgrounds.
It’s about inclusiveness, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone. People are encouraged to wear orange to show support.
Harmony Day is an annual event that occurs around the date of March 21, which is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
MCC will celebrate Harmony Week in Week 9. Please refer to COMPASS for further information and instructions about participation.
The BIG Vegie Crunch
What is Vegetable Week & The Big Vegie Crunch all about?
The Big Vegie Crunch & Vegetable Week promotes healthy eating in NSW primary schools. For The Big Vegie Crunch, students across NSW crunch together on vegetables to learn and build healthy eating habits.
The Big Vegie Crunch & Vegetable Week:
* promote veggies in schools
* promote healthy eating
* provide teachers with curriculum-aligned resources about healthy eating
* allow schools to include students, families and the community in a fun and healthy event
Students will be awarded House points for their class for choosing to explore different vegetables for the ‘Crunch and Sip’ (Fruit & Water) break in Week 7.
Positive Behaviour for Learning
Our focus for this two week period is about intentionally attending to our actions and behaviours and how they affect others, including the community to which we belong.
Respect ourselves and others is one of our school rules at MacKillop.
As a community, we are called to:
- Be in the right place at the right time.
- Include others and be fair.
- Use kind words and actions.
- Care for our appearance and belongings.
Blessings for a wonderful weekend,
Kerry Power
Acting Primary Principal
Term 1, Week 5, 2024
SUNDAY
4th Sunday of LENT
Gospel Acclamation:
John 3:16 “God loved the world so much, he gave his only Son, that all who believe in him might have eternal life.”
Dear Parents and Carers,
Message from the Principal
International Women’s Day on Friday 8 March, is an opportunity to applaud women in all walks of life who inspire and encourage others to be the very best they can be. The theme of this year’s international event is #inspireinclusion, meaning when we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world.
As a woman of the 21st century, I am inspired by the suffragettes who, in 1911, courageously spoke out against inequality and campaigned for the right to vote. I’m inspired by Mary MacKillop, who, with her Sisters, travelled across the country on horseback, educating the poor children of regional Australia. I’m inspired by my own mother who rode her motorcycle to work, often in the pouring rain. I pray for girls of the world who do not have access to quality education and training, for girls in the world and their equal participation in sport and the arts, and for girls in the world who seek safe and secure homes free of violence and exploitation.
Sharing Food
I had a very interesting conversation this week about allergies and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a severe and sometimes sudden allergic reaction to an allergen. It is important to raise awareness for the serious and intense reactions many members of society have when they ingest or encounter various allergens found in food. We would like you to join us in reminding your children that the food you pack for them is not for sharing.
Birthday Cakes and Parties
If you would like to supply a treat for the class on your child’s birthday, it would be appreciated if cupcakes, lollipops or ice-blocks were provided as an alternative to cakes that need to be cut up. If your child has any food allergies, we suggest you supply suitable foods that can be stored at school in the event of a celebration so that your child does not miss out.
MacKillop Catholic College is concerned for the safety and well-being of all our students. Many of you will know someone who is affected by anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. Our school does its best to be an allergy-aware school. Staff have had training in severe allergy management, and we have implemented lots of strategies to help keep students at risk of anaphylaxis as safe as we can. We have a number of students who live with the risk of anaphylaxis to foods and insect stings. Whilst these children are being taught to care for themselves at an age-appropriate level, we ask that you help us educate your child on the importance of not sharing food with others, washing hands after eating and informing an adult if they think their friend with allergies is sick. With increased awareness and understanding of anaphylaxis, you will be able to help protect those around you.
I have included this extract from allergyfacts.org.au
A food allergy is an immune system response to a normally harmless food protein that the body believes is harmful. When the individual eats food containing that protein, the immune system releases massive amounts of chemicals, triggering symptoms that can affect a person’s breathing, gastrointestinal tract, skin, and/or heart. Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction and is potentially life- threatening. It must be treated as a medical emergency, requiring immediate treatment and urgent medical attention.
It is estimated that up to 400,000 (2%) Australians, including 1 in 20 children suffer from food allergies and some of them will experience a life-threatening (anaphylactic) reaction.
Symptoms of food allergy can include:
Mild to moderate allergic reaction
- Tingling of the mouth
- Hives, welts or body redness
- Swelling of the face, lips, eyes
- Vomiting, abdominal pain (note these are signs of a severe allergic reaction if the person has insect allergy)
Severe allergic reaction – ANAPHYLAXIS
- Difficult/noisy breathing
- Swelling of the tongue
- Swelling or tightness in the throat
- Difficulty talking or hoarse voice
- Wheeze or persistent cough
- Persistent dizziness or collapse
- Pale and floppy (young children)
9 foods cause 90% of food allergies. These foods are:
- Egg
- Sesame
- Milk
- Soy
- Peanut
- Fish
- Tree nuts (cashew, almond, pistachio etc)
- Crustacea (prawns, lobster, crabs etc)
- Wheat
Peanuts are the leading cause of severe allergic reactions, followed by tree nuts, shellfish, fish and milk. Adrenaline (epinephrine) is the first line treatment for severe allergic reactions and can be administered via an injector.
To learn more about anaphylaxis and food allergies, go to www.allergyfacts.org.au and www.allergy.org.au
As the only way to manage a food allergy is avoidance, the College has implemented several strategies to help prevent a severe allergic reaction. We can never totally eliminate the risk of anaphylaxis, but we can all do things that will help lessen the risk. Please consider children with a food allergy when packing your child’s lunch or when sending in food for any occasion, including school excursions. The school canteen has removed peanut butter as a safety measure. Foods that ‘May contain traces of xx or xx’ are fine for students without allergies to consume at school as long as they do not share food. Students will be learning about allergies, including severe food and insect sting allergies, during their PDHPE classes.
MacKillop is a nut-free school, and we have students in our community who have allergies to dairy, eggs, shellfish, and a variety of nuts. Please be aware of this when packing your children’s lunchboxes and speak to them about the importance of not sharing their food. Thank you for your consideration.
Safety around our school
I would again like to raise concerns about safe access to the College. Parents have contacted the College to voice their concerns about the safety of students entering and exiting the grounds each day. They also complain about parents who display risky, illegal or unnecessary behaviour. I have reached out to Central Coast Council to guide us through many elements of parking and access to our campus, including signage and route issues for buses and cars during peak periods. We ask that you please be patient and adhere to parking signs that are already present near or around the school. A parking ranger will occasionally visit the streets around our school in an effort to restrict inappropriate parking. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Open Day
OPEN DAY & Kinder Connect
It was wonderful to welcome so many families to our Open Day. I want to send a special ‘shout out’ to our wonderful student tour guides who led and spoke about our community with knowledge and pride.
Many parents thanked the college and particularly the tour guides at this morning’s Kinder Connect session.
A teacher reflection:
‘Parents were so impressed with how well spoken and articulate our leaders were. They had thought that we must have had a mentor program to facilitate their talents. I explained that in Primary we support them and offer opportunities like running assembly, or addressing the school to accept sport awards. We also have our leadership camp in Year 5 that unpacks what leaders do and we work with them from where they are comfortable to take them to where they want to go.’
Congrats to all on a wonderful Open evening and Kinder Connect morning.
Representative Sport
In the last week, we have had a number of Primary students represent the college at Broken Bay and PSSA Winter Pathway Sport trials.
Congratulations to Aoibhinn T and Sofia W, who have been selected for the Mid North Coast & Inland Girls AFL team. They will travel to Albury in May to compete in the NSWPSSA Competition with Mrs Denneman, who is one of the coaches.
The following students have also been selected to represent Broken Bay at Polding Trials in Tamworth early next term:
Nicholas B – Hockey and Hallie W – Netball
Congratulations also to Carter H, who represented MacKillop in the Australian Mountain Biking Interschool Championships at Thredbo this week. A fabulous effort finishing 22nd in Flow & 25th in All Mountain Downhill with a cracking time.
We are very proud of you all!
Positive Behaviour for Learning
Our focus for the next two weeks is about intentionally attending to our actions and behaviours and how they affect others, including the community to which we belong.
Respecting ourselves and others is one of our school rules at MacKillop!
As a community, we are called to:
- Be in the right place at the right time.
- Include others and be fair.
- Use kind words and actions.
- Care for our appearance and belongings.
Inside the classroom
1 Banksia have been investigating mini beasts in Science. To present what they have found out about their chosen mini beast, Mrs Ellmore’s students created some very informative and creative dioramas. Thank you for sharing your findings 1 Banksia.
Blessings for a wonderful weekend,
Kerry Power
Acting Primary Principal
Term 1, Week 4, 2024
Term 1, Week 3, 2024
Term 1, Week 2, 2024
Gospel Acclamation:
Matthew 4:4 “No one lives on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
Dear Parents and Carers,
Message from the Principal
A significant part of belonging to a community like MacKillop is the ability to see the development of young people from Kindergarten to Year 12. The last Year 6 class I taught will this week begin their journey toward graduation. On Thursday, I had the great pleasure of attending the Senior Mass and Luncheon with our Stage 6 students, many of whom I have known for most of their school lives. I am reminded of the importance of relationship and accompaniment on life’s journey, and I feel very blessed to be present as they consider what life will be like beyond MCC.
I was also extremely proud of our Year 6 Leaders at their grade Mass. Their behaviour was reverent and respectful and they displayed a willingness to embrace their leadership roles.
This week begins a most sacred time for Catholics as we begin the journey toward Easter. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, and over the next six weeks, our hearts and classrooms will be filled with the language of our faith. Sin means to engage in activities that turn us away from God. Instead, we are encouraged to be intentional in our behaviour that is like Jesus. We are also encouraged to forgive those who may have offended us.
Fast means to abstain of forego things we enjoy. When we Fast, we think about the sacrifice Jesus made to bring God’s Kingdom to earth. Adults are encouraged to Fast if they are able on Ash Wednesday and to forego meat on Fridays during Lent. Fish and other seafood are a popular choice during Lent.
Almsgiving is all about charity, we think consciously about the coins we give and who they are supporting. We are also encouraged to speak the words of justice in advocacy for those affected by poverty and war. Spending more time in Prayer during Lent encourages Catholics to focus on the meaning of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, which will be revealed during the events of Holy Week and the Easter Triduum.
I ask you to consider adding the language of Lent to your home as we journey toward Easter.
Ash Wednesday and Shrove Tuesday
Parent Volunteers
We want to extend our sincere gratitude to the wonderful Primary school parents who volunteered to help and serve pikelets to all our Primary students. Parent Volunteers are invaluable to our community, and this certainly contributed to making Shrove Tuesday a delightful experience for our students.
Kindergarten Dismissal
Next week (Week 3), Kindergarten will join the rest of the Primary school at 3.05 pm dismissal. Mrs Shilling and the Kindergarten teachers have taken time to develop the students’ resilience in leaving the school safely. Please encourage your children to meet you in a similar spot so they can find you amid a much larger group of children.
Please remember that children and cars are a dangerous mix and that Kiss and Drop is a place to be extra careful as children are exiting and entering vehicles.
Please consider the positioning of your children and their bags during this time so that their movement makes it easy for them to manage.
As you are waiting in line, please be patient and refrain from overtaking cars that are in front of you.
Thank you for your consideration.
PBL Focus for Learning
Respecting our environment is one of our school rules at MacKillop! As a community, we are called to:
- Keep our school clean
- Use equipment responsibly
- Care for our surroundings
As part of our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) focus, our students will be reminded to respect our environment. The Colour House Leaders will lead the Primary community in caring for our common space by first encouraging those around them to put their rubbish in a bin. Secondly, they will begin an initiative called ‘Cleanup Crew’, which involves students collecting a pair of gloves and a bag and dedicating part of their playtime to cleaning up the playground. A famous quote from Mary MacKillop is, “Never see a need without doing something about it.” This will be an opportunity for our students to think about their own behaviour in relation to the environment and to allow students to accept responsibility for the spaces and equipment they share. Clean-up Australia Day is always scheduled for the first Sunday in March, so our commitment will echo the work of the broader community. You may want to consider a common space that your family would like to beautify over the coming weeks.
Sacraments
Students who are in Year 4 and above will begin their preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion in February.
Information letters from the St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Parish has gone home with Year 4 students. If you would like to enrol your child in the Sacramental Program, please contact the Parish Office.
Parent Information Session: Tuesday, 13 February at 7 pm in the Parish Church
Please contact Kim in the Parish Office, 8379 1740 (Tuesday-Friday) if you have further questions.
Beginning of School Year Welcome Mass
You are invited to attend our Welcome Mass for 2024 on Sunday, 18 February, at 5 pm in the St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Church. This Mass is an opportunity to gather as a community of faith to give thanks for the gift of each other and to welcome new families to our community.
Kindergarten students will be presented with a MacKillop bear, and Year 7 students will receive an MCC Logo Keyring for their locker.
We will also take this opportunity to commission our new College Principal, Mrs. Tanya Appleby. College Parliament, SRC and Primary School Leaders will have an active role in the Mass.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Inside the Classroom
This week, 1 Wattle have been working together on skip counting and looking at tens and ones, using colourful paddle pop sticks and counters to create groups and whiteboards to tally their results. Thank you, Mrs Smith and 1W for sharing your learning with us.
Enjoy your weekend,
Kerry Power
Acting Primary Principal
Term 1, Week 1, 2024
SUNDAY 6th SUNDAY ORDINARY TIME
Gospel Acclamation: Luke 7:16
A great prophet has appeared among us; God has visited his people
Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome
School life has begun to form a wonderful rhythm at MacKillop. All students from Kindergarten to Year 12 are now onsite and engaged in the vibrant life of the College.
Uniform Matters
Our MacKillop College uniform is highly recognisable in the Central Coast community, and it is important that our students feel pride in wearing it. The first two weeks have allowed us to address students in the entire K – 12 College community about the need to maintain consistently high uniform standards.
We ask that parents support our standards regarding correct uniforms and address these with their children. We are currently in a transition phase regarding socks, and we ask for your patience during this period. Please refer to the uniform policy regarding guidelines for jewellery and hairstyles.
Hats are a vital component of UV protection and an element of uniform we strictly adhere to. It is also the main item that is misplaced. Children who are not wearing a hat will be required to play in the shade sail area of the yard.
Please ensure your child’s uniform is clearly marked with, your child’s first, your family name, and their class on hats.
Mobile Devices
While we acknowledge this is a fabulous safety measure for children who walk or catch the bus to and from school, they are becoming a disruption during class times. Just as we disallow the use of mobile phones, we also disallow the use of smartwatches for the purpose of communication during school hours.
Rather than banning these watches, we ask that you please disable the communication function during the hours of 8:20 am and 3 pm.
If your child’s watch proves to be a distraction during class or is used as a communication tool, it will be stored in a safe place and returned to your child before the final bell. Thank you for your understanding.
COMPASS for Communication
As mentioned in my last Newsletter, COMPASS is the primary source of communication with your child’s teacher. COMPASS is a secure and effective method of recording your child’s engagement with school life.
Instructions on how to access email via COMPASS will be provided by class teachers in the coming days.
Inside the Classroom
This week students in 1 Myrtle learnt about ‘Friends of 10’ through a game of whiteboard Tic Tac Toe and rolling Dice. Thank you Ms Shelley and 1 M for giving us a sneak peak of your class in action.
Students who are in Year 4 and above will begin their preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion in February.
Information letters from the St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Parish will go home with Year 4 students this week. If you would like to enrol your child in the Sacramental Program, please attend the Information Session on February 13.
Parent Information Session: Tuesday, 13 February at 7 pm in the Parish Church
Please contact Kim in the Parish Office, 8379 1740 (Tuesday-Friday) if you have further questions.
Ash Wednesday and Shrove Tuesday
Ash Wednesday signals the beginning of Lent. Lent is a sacred time for Catholics as we prepare for the celebration of Easter by Fasting, Giving Alms and Praying.
The day before Ash Wednesday is called Shrove or Pancake Tuesday. Traditionally, before the abstinence of Lent, people get rid of all their treats and goodies before their Lenten fast begins. Sweet pancakes provide the symbol of this ritual. Mrs Marien, along with our Grade Parent helpers and Year 6, will distribute pancakes (with maple syrup and/or ice cream) to the Primary school community on Tuesday, 13 February, from 8 am in the undercroft near the MCC Canteen and Kinder in the Creek Area.
During Lent, the Diocese of Broken Bay actively supports the charitable works of Caritas through Project Compassion. Throughout Lent, students learn about the various charitable works of Project Compassion, and so we ask that, if you are able, please support Caritas by giving a gold coin upon receiving a pancake. Thank you in advance for your compassion in this work of mercy.
Beginning of School Year Welcome Mass
You are invited to attend our Welcome Mass for 2024 on Sunday, 18 February, at 5 pm in the St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Church. This Mass is an opportunity to gather as a community of faith to give thanks for the gift of each other and to welcome new families to our community.
Kindergarten students will be presented with a MacKillop bear, and Year 7 students will receive an MCC Logo Keyring for their locker.
We will also take this opportunity to commission our new College Principal Mrs. Tanya Appleby, College Parliament, SRC and Primary School Leaders will have an active role in the Mass.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Enjoy your weekend,
Kerry Power
Acting Primary Principal
Welcome Edition Term 1 2024
SUNDAY 5th SUNDAY ORDINARY TIME
Gospel Acclamation: John 8:12
I am the light of the world, says the Lord; the person who follows me will have the light of life.
Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome
A very warm welcome back to MCC for 2024! I hope that you have had a relaxing break with your family over the summer. In my first Newsletter as Primary Principal, I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself and thank the community of MCC for the very warm welcome I have received. I feel very humbled and grateful to be joining the College Leadership Team in 2024.
My family moved to the Central Coast in 2014, and I have lived in Wyongah for 9 years. I have two adult daughters, who graduated from MacKillop and now lead ‘grown up’ lives.
I am certain we will have many opportunities to gather and meet at a range of events and experiences over the coming weeks, and I look forward to meeting you all.
Kindergarten
Our Kindergarten children started with us and have settled in so well already. I don’t think I even saw one tear (at least from the children)! They will have time with their beautiful buddies in Year 5 this week. The Buddy relationship is so important for transition, and these students have taken on the mantle of care and guidance with eagerness and capability. Their first day was designed to ease them into their classroom with their teachers, and after the weekend, they will really be thrown right into the dynamic energy of school life! It was lovely to meet so many parents at our Meet & Greet and join in this special occasion. Thank you for entrusting your precious children with us.
A big welcome too, to our new Kindy families who have commenced with us this year. It is a big wrench to send your very first child off to big school, so I hope that you are taking care of your feelings as you navigate this next stage of your child’s life journey.
To those Kindy families who are continuing their journey with MacKillop, I also welcome you back. We each respond in different ways to these big life events, so whether you are rejoicing at your newfound freedom or feeling at a loose end, I pray that, after a period of adjustment, you and your child’s experience at MacKillop is a positive and joyful one!
