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This Sunday is the feast of Pentecost. As you may recall, last Sunday we celebrated the Ascension where Jesus rose to heaven. Following that event, the apostles entered a period of discernment and uncertainty and the readings tell us that they were huddled in a room unsure of what they would do and fearing for their future. We are also told in that at one point “something appeared to them that seemed like tongues of fire … they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2: 1-11). In the Gospel, Jesus appears to them whilst they are in the room and He then commissions them to go out; “As the Father sent me, so I am sending you” (John 20: 19-23).
We may have been fortunate enough to have experienced something similar in our own lives: A point where we suddenly become relaxed with our situation and we have a new clarity around what is happening and what we need to do next. We sometimes might refer to this as an epiphany. When the apostles experienced this, they suddenly understood what needed to be done and immediately went outside and did it. They had the gift of speech where those listening could suddenly understand what was being said. In our own situation, the commissioning to go out might be achieved in the small everyday actions and interactions that we have with others. When we treat others as Christ would have treated us, we are bringing Jesus to others and are helping to make Him known and loved.
On Tuesday morning, the College captains joined me on a short site visit past the STEM building and onto the new senior girls’ toilet block. It was important for them to get a sense of what stage the construction is currently at and how they might contribute ideas around how the new block might be used and accessed. There was a genuine appreciation for the work that is occurring and they were able to make some good suggestions around future amenities around the College.
Tomorrow our staff will be involved in our annual Spiritual Formation Day. This year our theme is “Created and Called” which is the 2023 theme of Marist Schools Australia. Whilst I understand the imposition that a pupil free day has on our families, the importance of the centrality of Christ within our community cannot be overstated. Mount Carmel is a Christ-centred community which provides opportunities for excellence. The Christ-centredness needs to be maintained and nourished actively and deliberately. It is one of the things that helps to make us who we are and what we are, and our formation days assist us in achieving this. I thank all parents and students for your support in this and congratulate Mrs Meharg on a well-planned and delivered day for the staff.
Last Tuesday we held our Term 2 P&F meeting. Thank you to Mrs Clare Murphy who made a presentation on Literacy at Mount Carmel and evoked a number of thoughts around the importance of reading and contemplation. These meetings take a very informal approach but enable valuable discussion and consultation around what we are doing at the College. Thank you as always to the parents who braved the cooler weather to be part of this meeting and assist with their input.
Ite in Veritate
Mr Steve Lo Cascio
Earlier in the year I placed some information regarding the latest COVID-19 updates courtesy of New South Wales Health and the Catholic Education Office Diocese of Wollongong. The latest data courtesy of New South Wales Health saw almost 13,000 cases of Covid detected by RAT or PCR tests in the week ending on May 11th. As such, along with the Cold and Flu season, we need to be conscious of the need to continue to adopt measures that were in place during the height of the pandemic to minimise the risk of transmission of Covid, Colds and Flus. Should your son or daughter display signs or symptoms, the following advice is in place from NSW Health and CEDoW:
Students and staff who are unwell with any cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms (whether they have tested positive or not) should not attend school until their symptoms are gone. They do not need to present a negative test to the school before returning.
The College also still has a small supply of Rapid Antigen Test kits available for those students or families who may require them. Please contact the Front Office should you wish to collect a kit for home use.
All the best for the week ahead.
Mr Simon Huntly
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PENTECOST SUNDAY YEAR A - Happy Birthday to the Church It's all about being commissioned! |
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| First Reading | 2:1-11 | The Spirit comes to the Apostles as tongues of fire. |
| Second Reading | 1 Cor 12:3-7, 12-13 |
We are one body with different gifts. |
| Gospel |
Jn 20:19-23 |
Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit into the Apostles
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As we commence week 6 we start to explore the characteristic of Love of Work.
What does that mean here at the College and in all Marist places?
We are people of work, ready to ‘roll up our sleeves" especially when there is a need to get things done.
We work with total confidence in God
We are generous of heart, constant and persevering in our daily work
We prepare classes, being visionary and decisive in meeting the needs of our students
We encourage our students to discover the dignity of work, a source of self-fulfillment
We view work as a way to bring purpose and meaning to life
We seek to develop strong character and resilience, balanced moral conscience, and solid values
We foster motivation and teamwork
This week we all are "rolling up our sleeves" so as to prepare for following week's celebration of Champagnat Day.
So that our work helps our fellow Marists in Bougainville.
This week the Marist Characteristic is LOVE of WORK.
We are inspired from this image of St Marcellin, working with others to help build the Hermitage. The Homebase for Marists around the world.
As a College we get our chance to “roll up our sleeves” like Champagnat did - he had a Love of Work, as we focus on the helping others at Champagnat Day.
Mrs Christine Meharg
Year 11 2024
Year 10 students have received the Subject Information Handbook which contains descriptions of the courses that will be offered as well as requirements of Year 11 and 12 patterns of study. Students have been asked to read this booklet with their parents/guardians.
In the coming week, Subject Videos will also be available. In these videos, students will be able to listen and view information from the KLA Coordinators about each course offered.
The next phase of the Subject Selection process will be the Yr 11 2024 Subject Selection Information Evening at the College on Wednesday 21 June at 7pm in the Champagnat Centre. All Year 10 students are expected to attend this evening with a parent/guardian. This will be followed by the Subject Markets held during periods 2-5 on Thursday 22 June.
Students are encouraged to speak with their class teachers or KLA coordinators, if they have subject specific questions and begin considering the learning pathway that they wish to pursue for Year 11 and 12. Mr Daniels (Transition and Pathways Coordinator) is also a valuable resource for advice on TAFE, university and career pathways. Mr Clark (VET Coordinator) can also assist in answering any questions about School-Based Apprenticeships and TAFE VET courses, which students may wish to study in conjunction with courses at the College. For any questions regarding the Subject Selection process or HSC pathways, please contact Ms Miller or Ms Toogood.
| Week 6 |
Year 12 29/05/2023: 12 Mathematics Standard 1 29/05/2023: 12 Mathematics Standard 2 31/05/2023: 12 Studies of Religion 2 01/06/2023: 12 Physics 02/06/2023: 12 Biology {NEW DATE} Year 11 31/05/2023: 11 Visual Arts 01/06/2023: 11 Work Studies (2unit) Year 9 See Assessment Notification for class specific due date Catholic Studies History Mathematics 5.3 Mathematics 5.2 Mathematics 5.1 |
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| Week 7 |
Year 12 05/06/2023: 12 Work Studies 05/06/2023: 12 PDHPE 05/06/2023: 12 Business Studies 06/06/2023: 12 Legal Studies 07/06/2023: 12 SLR 07/06/2023: 12 English Advanced 07/06/2023: 12 English Standard 07/06/2023: 12 English Studies 07/06/2023: 12 Modern History 07/06/2023: 12 Spanish Beginners Year 11 05/06/2023: 11 Biology 05/06/2023: 11 Investigating Science 05/06/2023: 11 English Extension 1 05/06/2023: 11 Mathematics Extension 1 |
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| Week 8 |
Year 12 13/06/2023: 12 English Extension 1 14/06/2023: 12 Chemistry 16/06/2023: 12 Industrial Technology Timber Year 11 13/06/2023: 11 PDHPE 14/06/2023: 11 CAFS 15/06/2023: 11 English Advanced 15/06/2023: 11 English Standard 15/06/2023: 11 English Studies 15/06/2023: 11 SLR 2 16/06/2023: 11 Physics 16/06/2023: 11 Mathematics Standard 1 & 2 Year 10 14 & 15/06/2023: 10 Catholic Studies 16/06/2023: 10 Mathematics 5.1 {NEW DATE} 16/06/2023: 10 Mathematics 5.2 {NEW DATE} 16/06/2023: 10 Mathematics 5.3 {NEW DATE} |
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Ms Chardy Miller & Miss Rebecca Toogood
Leader of Learning - Curriculum Pedagogy & Acting Leader of Learning - Curriculum Administration
As we enter the second part of the Term 2, it represents another period of time where the demands of assessments, changing weather, sporting commitments and a range of other pressures often place our bodies under more stress than usual. It is important that we can identify when we are beginning to show signs of fatigue or stress and implement strategies which will allow us to manage the day to day demands in our lives. The College Diary includes a section on page 33 of both the senior and junior diaries which provides some basic tips for assisting with stress management.
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Mrs Theresa Moore
Some years ago, I read the very moving account of Adeline Yen Mah’s life story entitled, Falling Leaves. This 1997 autobiography is a compelling, painful, and ultimately triumphant story of a girl's very challenging journey into adulthood. With a powerful voice that speaks of the harsh realities of growing up in a family and society which discriminated against her, Falling Leaves is a work of tremendous power which provides a rare insight into twentieth-century China.
Following the success of this critically acclaimed adult bestseller and drawing on the extremely difficult childhood described in the early part of Falling Leaves, the author composed a second book entitled Chinese Cinderella, published two years later in 1999. This memoir, which is a very moving retelling of the classic Cinderella story, with Adeline Yen Mah providing her own courageous voice, is a very popular book with our Year 7 readers. Students are often amazed at the suffering experienced by the young Adeline whose only desire was to be loved and understood by her parents and siblings. Although harrowing, Chinese Cinderella is ultimately an uplifting account of the human capacity to endure hardship and pain.
The following words from Adeline Yen Mah capture the significance of her writing:
I have always cherished this dream of creating something unique and imperishable, so that the past should not fade away forever. I know that one day I will die and vanish into the void but hope to preserve my memories through my writing. Perhaps others who were also unwanted may see them a hundred years from now and be encouraged. I imagine them opening the pages of my book and meeting me (as a ten-year-old) in Shanghai, without actually having left their own homes in Sydney, Tokyo, London, Hong Kong or Los Angeles. And I shall welcome each and every one of them with a smile and say, ‘How splendid of you to visit me! Come in and let me share with you my story … because I understand only too well the rankling in your heart and what you are going through.
Clare Murphy
English Coordinator and Literacy Instructional Coach
Around the Grounds
Back to a busy week of sport with multiple sporting events occurring including our Athletics Carnival, Diocesan Cross Country and MISA getting to the business end of the term. Mount Carmel won 7 MISA games this week with our most successful week of the term. We also have our next rotation of recreational sports occurring next week with students being encouraged to look out for announcements to ensure they are in the right place at the right time on Tuesday afternoon.
Athletics Carnival
Our College Athletics Carnival occurred last and was not only a celebration of physical prowess but also a testament to the strength and unity of our college community. From the dedicated athletes who pushed their limits to achieve personal bests, to the enthusiastic supporters who cheered them on with boundless enthusiasm, every individual played an integral role in creating an unforgettable experience showcasing the very best of our house spirit at Mount Carmel. Unfortunately the carnival ran slightly over time and both the Javelin and 800m events were postponed. These will occur on school grounds during week 6 to determine age champions and the winning house. Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to our exceptional staff members who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of the carnival. From the meticulous planning and coordination to the logistical arrangements, their dedication and attention to detail were instrumental in making this event a resounding success.
Diocesan Cross Country
On Monday the 22 May, Mount Carmel sent their best runners to Willandra south of Nowra for the Diocesan Cross Country Carnival. Going into the day with optimism and high spirits our small team of 37 runners tried their best showcasing some of our elite athletes at Mount Carmel. Some outstanding efforts with three of our runners being selected to represent the Diocese Of Wollongong Cross Country by finishing in the top 6 of their age groups. A tremendous effort by the team from each and every student proudly representing Mount Carmel. Good luck to those who will compete next month.
Best Results
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Sport |
Result |
MVP |
Short Report |
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Softball 10-12 Boys Mr Withnall |
Loss 10-3 VS SBCC |
William McManus |
Yet another week of tough competition with SBCC fielding some highly skilled plays, our boys were already mentally beat. It took some excellent base-running from our MVP, William McManus, to show the team that we were still able to compete if we stick to the basics and play smart softball. It was unfortunate that our fielding did not demonstrate the same level of competitiveness, though the team still had fun, that’s for sure! |
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Basketball 7-9 Boys Mr Rodoreda |
Win 61-37 VS MAS |
Aneek Gamildien |
The boys came out strong this game, streaking ahead to 15-0 after 9 minutes through a combination of tough defence and great passing. We had worked hard on our defence against larger teams, and the boys put this into practice, keeping MAS from taking an offensive rebound through much of the first half, despite a significant height advantage. Students showed their diversity in attack, hitting three pointers, taking fast breaks and creating opportunities inside the key. I continue to be impressed with the way this team supports each other, and gives their all when on the court. It was certainly a tough week to pick an MVP with all players showing great skill and teamwork. |
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Basketball 7-9 Girls Ms Turnbull |
Win 41-21 VS SPT |
Beth Martin |
This game was played at a very fast and exciting pace. While we missed a few shots, our queen of the rebounds, Gabriella supported by Alana, allowed us to score. Chelsea was again her menacing best, terrorising the opposition, while Eva was a great team player keeping the ball in our possession. Veronique, Lovina, Ysabella and Evangeline had strong games. Beth played aggressively and turned the momentum in our favour. She held onto the ball and marked up on the opposition's best player, taking her out of the game. She only scored our only three-pointer. Thanks to our scorers Carla and Emellia and assistant coach Mario. Points scored -Isabella 2, Eva 12, Alana 4, Gabriella 6, Chelsea 12, and Beth 5. |
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Indoor Cricket 10-12 Girls Mr O’Connell |
Loss 42-76 VS MASS |
Erin Nelson |
The girls started the game a player short but came out strong with a strong batting performance against a second placed Macarthur Anglican team. The girls achieved a respectable total and needed a strong bowling performance to get the win. Jessica McMillan and Erin Nelson were on fire! Erin got two quick wickets in her over which reduced MAS’s total by 10. The game was within the reach of MCCC. Unfortunately they put in their best two batswomen for the final two overs and came away with the win. Congratulations to the girls who played a solid game. Well done |
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Netball 11-12 Girls Mrs Armour |
Win 38-12 VS MAG |
Isabella Ashcroft |
We took no chances heading into our last game before finals. The girls had consistent control of the ball and missed no opportunity for a turnover. This weeks player of the match is Isabella who set the pace for the entire game in Centre position. We are lucky to have you play for us, Bella! |
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Hockey 7-9 Boys Mr Rees |
Loss 1-0 VS MAC |
Diesel Wagstaff |
A vastly improved performance this week with MCCC enjoy a few attacking opportunities and holding their own through the middle. The cover defence kept us in the game throughout until some slick passing finally had us beat leading to the only goal of the game. |
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Rugby League 10-12 Boys Mr Kawa & Mr Harpley |
Win 14-0 VS THAC |
Tony Pholi-Pearce |
With a shortened game it seemed that the team with the first score would take the match. Fortunately the boys took early points and consolidated with another two try’s to extend the lead. THAC looked dangerous breaking through our defensive line but brilliant work in defence from Tony helped keep them scoreless as he pushed the opponents over the touch line. Great work from all players today. On to next week. |
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Rugby League U16 Girls Mrs Abra & Miss Heath |
Loss 24-20 VS SPT |
Jane Mikaele |
I am sure this is not the same team that started in round 1 and questioned if they were in the right division. Well girls you are definitely deserving of Division 1. The improvement each week is outstanding and perfectly timed to hit our form come the finals. Every member on the team is working to their best ability. Whether it is finding the courage to take a tackle, run the ball hard or even pass it and make a play. Congratulations to Jane who shows no fear. She is instrumental in our confidence and with her hat trick today, it is undeniable that she is our MVP for round 4. Miss Heath & myself are very proud of you all. |
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Frisbee 7-9 Mixed Mr Martin |
Win 26-0 VS JTCC |
Smriti Pathania |
Beautiful. Poetry in motion. Movement off the disc was spectacular, which was our goal from last week. Big shout out to Makeilah Langi from year 8 who stepped up to play her first game and had an outstanding performance, in defence and attack. Smriti Pathania rounded her game with a great performance in attack, acting as a central anchor for Katerina Krsteski who played excellent in attack as always. Hudson Warren's direct passing was a sight to behold and Baxter Bastoli commanded in defence, not letting a single point through. Hats off to Sebastian Ratajczak who also stepped in for his first game, he is a natural frisbee thrower making some excellent passes. Next week we will look to improve in our transition from attack to defence. We were a bit slow in some stages of the game and the team was able to string a few passes together. Fantastic game nonetheless. |
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Soccer 11-12 Boys Mr Berkeley |
Win 1-0 VS JTCC |
Brayden Greer |
The boys showcased their best performance yet in the competition, displaying remarkable chemistry that had been building over the past few weeks, including Dio Football. Their dominance was evident, particularly in possession, as they created numerous opportunities with well-executed through balls into their front third. However, Zane and Ryan's attacking prowess fell slightly short this afternoon, as they missed some chances in the box. Ryan, in particular, could benefit from more practice in on-target shooting, as he missed a crucial opportunity during a pivotal moment in the game. Nevertheless, the team managed to secure a win by scrambling a goal towards the end of the second half. It's worth mentioning Brayden, who made several crucial saves to prevent JTCC from scoring. Next week we take on Magdalene CC with 2 wins out of 3 matches, so with a win next week that puts us in strong contention for the semi-finals. |
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Soccer 10-12 Girls Miss Nimac |
Win 4-1 VS SPT |
Jessica Forde |
The girls demonstrated solid team work and skill this week in a dominant display against St Pats. The girls showed class through the middle with several classy passes and through balls and countless shots on goal. Special mention to Alisiah Marmont who scored all four goals. This week's MVP IS Jessica Forde who dominated in the middle, assisted in defence and provided several balls up front. Overall, an excellent match - well done girls! |
| Friday 16 June | Diocesan Netball at Narellan Sports Hub |
| Monday 19 June | Diocesan Hockey |
| Wednesday 21 June | Diocesan Volleybal |
| Friday 28 July | Diocesan Athletics |
DIO and NSWCCC EVENTS
Again a very busy term for sport with a lot of events occurring throughout the term. As always, students are encouraged to sign up and trial for representative teams. Below you will find registration links for both our DIO and NSWCCC events. If you require any further information please visit the Diocese of Wollongong sports here
Registrations are Now Open for 2023
Please refer to attached 2023_Registration.pdf
Representative Pathways
MISA Website https:/wwwwmisaonlineeorgg.au/
Diocesan Sport News
Updates and news on Wollongong Diocese sport events and trials can be viewed here Nominations for Term 1 Diocesan sports are now open via google form on Compass.
NSW CCC/CSNSW Sport News
Higher level CCC trials and events status can be monitored here.
SCHOOL SPORT AUSTRALIA SPORT NEWS
More School Sport Australia information can be found here
If you have any questions, please email webbb01@dow.catholic.edu.au
Mr Braydon Webb
Term 2 so far has been a wonderful learning experience in the Sciences at Mount Carmel. Our students have been expanding their scientific knowledge to unlock endless possibilities towards shaping a better future for themselves, as their young minds venture into the realm of scientific exploration. The science teachers at Mount Carmel have been guiding students on how to ignite their curiosity, foster critical thinking, and nurture a love for scientific inquiry.
On Thursday 18th May, some of our students in Years 7 to 10 participated in the Big Science Competition. This competition aims to test and challenge students' scientific knowledge and problem-solving skills. It encourages students to apply their scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities to real-world scenarios. The competition was organised by Mrs Hili and Ms Hynes. Students will receive their results and certificates in Term 3. We wish our participants all the best!
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Year 7 students are in awe and wonder as they explore the ‘unseen world’ using their microscopes this term. They have learnt how to properly use a microscope to view tiny specimens such as onion, cheek and blood cells. This will build upon their knowledge on the structure and function of plant and animal cells. Our year 7 students are also super excited about their upcoming excursion to the Western Sydney Zoo in week 9. They cannot wait to visit the zoo to have an amazing day learning about animal classification and adaptations! Parental consent for this excursion is to be completed by all parents via compass, by June 13 2023. |
| Year 8 students have been quite busy with their scalpels and forceps this term! They have been dissecting sheep hearts, kidneys and chicken wings, as they explore a wonderful journey through the human body to learn about various body systems. |  |
Year 9 students have become microbiologists as they explore the microbial world to learn more about pathogens and diseases in their current Living World topic. Students have been investigating microbes by growing them on agar plates, inside an incubator. They have taken swabs of surfaces such as the bubblers, their phones and door knobs to find out whether these surfaces are ‘clean’ or infested with bacteria. Their results have been mind-blowing!
Year 10 students are enjoying their current topic on atoms and radioactivity. This topic will give them an insight into Chemistry as a possible subject choice for their year 11 studies. Students have been building atomic models to learn about atoms and ions. They have also created wonderful posters to demonstrate their understanding of the history of the development of the atomic model. Students will expand their knowledge further as they learn about radioisotopes and radioactivity in the coming weeks. They will investigate the Fukushima and Chernobyl nuclear disasters to learn how radioactivity can be a ‘double-edged’ sword, as they explore its dual nature of benefits and risks.
These wonderful learning experiences at Mount Carmel have surely ignited a deep appreciation for the wonders of the natural world within our students. Through hands-on experiments and real-world applications, our science teachers have created an environment where scientific knowledge continues to flourish.
