Filter Content
Dear parents, friends, staff and students,
This Sunday’s Gospel (Matthew 14:22-33) tells us of the story where Jesus walks on water. This story is one that is constantly referred to even by non-Christians as a sign of the power and authority of Jesus. The event comes after Jesus had been preaching and had then gone to be by Himself. What is often not recalled in this story, is that when Peter sees Him from the boat, he steps out of the boat and himself walks on the water toward Jesus. When he realises what he is doing and feels the force of the wind on his face, he begins to sink and calls out to Jesus to save him. The irony here is that we consider it a miracle that Jesus walked on the water but often forget about Peter. Peter’s ability however was only possible whilst he was fully focussed on Jesus. As soon as he lost that focus, he also lost the ability to do more than is humanly possible. For us to achieve great things, we must also ensure that our focus is on Jesus and with that, we can also be part of a miracle.
On Tuesday the church celebrates the Feast of the Assumption. This is the solemnity where we recognise that Mary was taken to heaven, body and soul. It is particularly important to our community because both of our charisms (Marist and Carmelite) consider Mary as a central figure in our quest to reach Jesus. Mary presents us with a figure that is human but perfect. She enables us to envisage what is possible and is instrumental in leading us to Jesus.
Today our whole Year 11 cohort were given the chance to consider and discuss the nature of leadership as a part of their transition into Year 12. These days are an important part of the process of leadership that formally begins in Year 10 with the House Leaders. The students are then given the opportunity in Year 11 to be Youth Ministry Leaders and then in Year 12 for membership on the Student Representative Council (SRC). I had the pleasure of participating in this day and asking the students what type of leaders they want to be and want to have. I am encouraged by the standard of these fine young women and men and know that our college will be in good hands as the new SRC are chosen and developed.
Next Tuesday August 15 (week 5) we will be holding our Term 3 P&F meeting. As always, this is held in room I3 (at the top of the turning circle) and begins at 7 pm. This term our guest speaker will be Mr David Teuma (ICLT Coordinator). Mr Teuma will be speaking about technology use at the College and in particular Artificial Intelligence. As always, all parents and caregivers are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Finally, a reminder that next Friday (August 18) will be our Term 3 Staff Development Pupil Free day. This day will focus on Wellbeing and Pastoral Care and will involve the whole staff. Again, I recognise the disruption that these days may cause and I thank all parents and students for your support.
Ite in Veritate
Mr Steve Lo Cascio
Last week I mentioned that our Year 11 students would be participating in two days of Leadership training as part of their transition to Year 12 for 2024. The first of these days were conducted today, which involved presentations and activities that looked into the importance of leadership in our lives, reflecting on our own individual roles as leaders in our community, styles of leadership and identifying members of our own community who might be best suited to assuming official leadership roles as a member of our 2024 Student Representative Council. Today’s workshops will be followed up on Monday with a team building day at Teen Ranch for all Year 11 students. The Teen Ranch experience will allow students to engage in a range of activities to further demonstrate their individual and group leadership skills as a means of providing staff and students another opportunity to develop a deeper appreciation of the individual talents of students with respect to problem solving, cooperation, leadership and teamwork. Thanks to Mr Harpley and Ms Gardner for their work in preparing the days and for all staff and students for their support and cooperation.
Further to this leadership development, Luna Clara Da Silva and D’Arcy Brennan from Year 11 attended a Breakfast with Premier Chris Minns yesterday morning. This is an annual event conducted by the Greater Narellan Business Chamber and provided an opportunity for students and staff to meet with the Premier and listen to a range of presentations relating to the vision for the local area in terms of the impact of the Western Sydney Airport development and key infrastructure policies for the Macarthur. Thanks to the students and staff who attended this very informative and early start to the day.
Year 12 have almost finished their HSC trial exams, which conclude on Monday. Their return on Tuesday will see them take part in a “Retreat Reconnector” program during sport time. This is an opportunity for them to reflect on the work that they started in November last year and how that has contributed to their journey through Year 12. Thanks to Mrs Meharg, Mrs Pearce and the staff and students who will be involved in this program.
Whilst this time of the year is an important one for our senior students, there are also some important events and initiatives for our Junior cohort that occur at this time of the year. Next Wednesday (August 16) will see our Stage 5 Subject selection evening for 2024 take place. This will provide valuable information, particularly for Year 8 students going into Year 9 in 2024, with respect to their elective subjects. This will commence at 6.30pm and be held in the College Hall. Thanks to Ms Miller, Ms Toogood and the KLA Coordinators who have assisted in the preparation for this night. Next week will also see a number of students participate in the MISA Golf Championships (Wednesday), Stage 5 Visual Arts excursion (Thursday) and MISA Youth of the Year Public Speaking(Thursday). Again, thanks to all those staff and student.
As always, should you have any questions or suggestions about how we can continue to support your son or daughter with their learning or wellbeing, please contact your son or daughter’s Pastoral Advisor, Year Coordinator or the Front Office staff.
Mr Simon Huntly
| THE NINETEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR A | ||
| First Reading | Kings 19:9.11-13 | The Lord passes by Elijah as a whisper. |
| Second Reading | Romans 9:1-5 | Serving Christ involves some pain. |
| Gospel | Matthew 14:22-33 | Jesus walks on water. |
Religious Education Curriculum Overview
Next Unit of study for years 7 to 10.
Year 10 - Catholic Social Teaching
This unit seeks to ground students in the vocation of social justice, founded in the lived example of Jesus Christ and underpinned by Scripture. It is a thread through the history of the church as it has sought to engage with the issues that have faced its people. In the modern world, these ideas have found firm ground in the formal teachings of Catholic social doctrine, which reflect on the mission of the church and calls us to respond to issues in our world today.
Year 9 Living the Commandments and the Beatitudes
This unit addresses foundational concepts in the study of Christian Morality. Students will examine the Ten Commandments as the basis of the covenant or agreement between God and God’s people and as the foundation of Christian moral teaching. The Ten Commandments express the fundamental duties of an individual towards God and neighbour and are the basis of our present-day law. Students will also explore the Beatitudes as they present a vision for life that is radically different from the vision held by many people, both in Jesus’ time and today.
Year 8 Striving for Goodness
Within the Christian worldview God is acknowledged as the highest good. Created in the image and likeness of God, women and men are inherently good. In this unit students will explore and affirm the good in their lives and the reality that the distortion of good can prevent us from realising the fullness of our humanity.
Year 7 Stewards of Creation
In this unit students will examine our belief that God is the source of all creation, and that all human beings have been called to stewardship. Students will be encouraged to explore positive ways to show care for all of God’s creation. The Scriptures and the Creed, inform our beliefs about God, creation and humanity.
Mrs Christine Meharg
The examinations will conclude on Monday 14 August. Yr 12 will resume regular lessons on Wednesday 16th August, following the Retreat Reconnector Day on Tuesday 15 August.
Students are reminded to arrive 30 minutes prior to the start time of their exams. If students have morning and afternoon examinations, they are not permitted to leave the College between examinations. Students are welcome to stay after an examination to study in the Library or arrive earlier in the day to study before an afternoon examination. In these instances students will be required to sign in at the Library and remain in this space to study. On days students do not have a scheduled examination they are welcome to attend the Library to study. A reminder that they can only sign in and out of the Library once during the school day.
To also assist students with their preparations and study, the College Library will be open again this week from 3:30-6:30pm. Please note that the additional evenings are only for Yr 12 students. Yr 10 and 11 students continue to be welcome to attend Senior Study on Tuesdays.
If, for any reason, students are ill or cannot attend the examination because of an accident or misadventure, you must contact the College to inform Mrs Pearce, Mr Lozelle, Ms Miller and Miss Toogood as soon as possible. The general rule is that the student is to attend the examination if possible, unless there is significant medical advice not to do so. If a student does miss an examination, they must follow the College Illness/Misadventure process. Miss Toogood or Ms Miller will be in contact with students to make arrangements for missed examinations.
Stage 5 Elective Course Selection
Today students in Year 8 and 9 received the Electives Selection Handbook and videos about each of the courses we are offering for Stage 5 2024.
A reminder that we have the Stage 5 2024 Electives Information Night this coming Wednesday 16 August. From 6:30pm, KLA Coordinators and specialist teachers will be available in the Champagnat Centre to answer questions regarding the electives that they have on offer. At 7:00pm, members of the College Leadership Team will present information regarding the process of selecting electives for 2024. For students who are currently in Year 8, attendance at the Information Night is fundamental to ensuring that an informed decision is made when nominating their elective selections for 2024. Students in Year 9 are encouraged to attend however given their familiarity with the process (having completed it in Year 8 2022), attendance is not required. Students are expected to attend the information night in their full College winter uniform.
|
TERM 3 |
||
|
Week 5 |
Mon - Last day of Trial HSC exams 16/08/23: Work Studies Year 7 Catholic Studies |
|
|
Week 6 |
Year 11 21/08/2023: 11 Visual Design 24/08/2023: 11 IPT Year 10 21/08/2023: 10 Food Tech (200hr) 24/08/2023: 10 Food Tech (100hr Year 9 IST Food Technology |
|
|
Week 7 |
Year 11 28/08/2023: 11 Visual Arts 28/08/2023: 11 Photography,Video & Digital Imaging |
|
Ms Chardy Miller & Ms Rebecca Toogood
Leader of Learning - Curriculum Pedagogy & Leader of Learning - Acting Curriculum Administration
At Mount Carmel Catholic College, we have CatholicCare Counsellors on site nine days per fortnight. CatholicCare Counsellors are available to support students in a range of wellbeing needs. Students who might be interested in counselling support are to speak to their Pastoral Advisor or Year Coordinator for details of how to engage with the service.
Alternatively, should students or families be in need of wellbeing support outside of school hours or in case of emergency, please find below a list of contact details for agencies that might be of assistance.
- ■ Headspace - 1800 650 890, 9am-1am AEST, 7 days a week
- ■ Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
- ■ Lifeline - 13 11 14
- ■ Beyond Blue Support Service - 1300 22 4636
This week a range of Year Assemblies were held to address many facets of Wellbeing and Learning. These included:
Year 7 - Presentation from CEDoW by Mrs Pontin - Respectful Relationships
Year 8 - House Cup - Dodgeball Competition
Year 9 - Presentation by Mr Daniels - Careers and Pathways
Year 10 - Year 10 Pastoral matters, College expectations, and the impact one decision can have.
Year 11 - Day 1 of Leadership Training (Day 2 will be held on Monday at Teen Ranch)
Year 12 - Finishing HSC Trial Examinations
Thank you to all Year Coordinators, Pastoral Advisors and Staff who assisted in the preparation and delivery of these activities today.
Mobile Phone/Electronic Equipment Policy -
This can be found in the Student College Diary under Pastoral Care.
Please note, mobile phones are not permitted to be used between 8.40am and 3.15pm (except for special permission given by class teachers). Students are NOT to use any mobile device to take photos/video on College grounds of other students. Under no circumstances can such images be published to social media accounts or be shared. Communication required with your child during the school day must happen via the College front office. Please contact on 9603 3000 and a message will be delivered to your child.
Mobile phones which are used inappropriately during class or College times will be confiscated.
Ist offence; phones taken to Student Services for collection by the student at the end of the day.
2nd Offence; phone taken to Student Services and Afternoon Detention issued.
3rd offence; phone kept at Student Services until parents meet and collect.
Finally, please do not hesitate to contact the College or the appropriate Classroom Teacher, Pastoral Advisor or Year Coordinator should you have any questions or require any assistance with matters relating to the wellbeing or learning of your child.
REMINDER
STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAY/PUPIL FREE DAY
Friday 18 August
Thank you for your ongoing support.
Mrs Theresa Moore
Elevate Education Parent Seminars
Dear Parents,
RE: Upcoming webinar for parents – How You Can Make Technology an Ally (& Not the Enemy!)
We are excited to announce that Elevate Education's next free webinar will be taking place on Wednesday 16th August, focusing on Technology & Focus.
Elevate Education works with our students, delivering high impact workshops on study skills, motivation, wellbeing, and exam preparation. By tuning into their webinar series you will learn how you can help better support your children at home through reinforcing the skills they learn at school.
Here is what Elevate will be covering!
 |
Technology addiction and how to reduce technology dependence Practical strategies and apps to minimise procrastination How to help your child use technology productively to enhance their learning |
Around the Grounds
Week four has seen a quiet week of sport around the college with MISA teams playing on Tuesday and recreational sport continuing each week. Upcoming we have some exciting competitions with MISA golf and NSWCCC Netball School Based competition. As we approach the end of the MISA season we keep in mind our year 12 students who will be representing the college for the last few times. Their contribution throughout the years has helped showcase the sporting culture of Mount Carmel by being involved in multiple winning teams throughout their time. As always, keep an eye on compass for future updates and good luck to our MISA teams chasing trophies in their respective competitions.
Recreational Sport - Year 7
During terms one and two we have had multiple opportunities available for students to actively participate in on Tuesdays afternoons. Year 7 have been visiting the local pools to grow their swimming skills through term one and two with Howard and Murray making their way on a bus each Tuesday. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to feel more confident and comfortable in aquatic environments. Each student has the opportunity to join groups that cater for their ability to ensure an equitable experience for all students to gain new skills. Both house groups have also headed down to D’vine Gymnastics Club learning different locomotor and non-locomotor skills in a professional environment. This gives students the opportunity to try new movements in a safe environment with experts. Avila and Mackillop have been at school participating in NRL and AFL skills programs. Both of these programs are run by NRL and AFL professionals giving students access to great knowledge on the game. They have also been participating and building new skills in Hip Hop dance. This is a unique opportunity for students to try something different with a passionate instructor. Year 7 have overall been great in their participation throughout the year so far and we are looking forward to seeing them enjoy Tuesday afternoons for the remainder of 2023.
MISA - Term 3 Round 3
| SPORT | RESULT | MVP | Short Report |
|
Softball 10-12 Girls Mr Withnall |
VS SBCC Loss 7-5 |
Rhianna Gascoine | Despite a brilliant start including 2 home-runs from both Rhianna and Maria, and some great fielding to keep things in our favour, we were ultimately let down by small errors and excellent fielding by St Benedict's. The girls continued to demonstrate MCCC spirit both on and off the diamond, constantly learning and improving, and supporting one another. The team may walk away defeated this week but will look forward with enthusiasm and drive for the games ahead. |
|
Netball 7-8 Girls Ms Jefferys |
VS JTCC Win 16-10 |
Eva Alvarado | The girls were down a few points after the second quarter but demonstrated some great teamwork in the remaining two quarters and came through with a win this week. Great effort especially goes to Emily and Eva who worked hard on defence and being available for the ball. |
|
Netball 9-10 Girls Mrs Armour |
VS JTCC Win 28-7 |
Sienna Wagstaff | The girls endurance is definitely being tested as the weather begins to warm up. Despite this, the girls maintained consistency in skill and managed to pull off a win against our rivals, John Therry. A fitting display of ability before we head off the CCC Netball next week. Our MVP is Sienna Wagstaff who certainly has the title of ‘fiercest players’ |
|
Indoor Cricket 10-12 Boys Mr O’Connell |
VS MAS Loss 112-24 |
Joshua Dennis |
The boys came up against strong opposition in Macarthur Anglican, only being able to field 6 players as opposed to the usual 8. MCCC batted first and reached a healthy total of 24 runs. They needed a masterclass bowling performance to have any chance of winning. The boys were able to get 7 wickets but that wasn’t enough to get the win. Congratulations to Joshua Dennis on a great all round performance. |
|
Soccer 7-9 Girls Miss Heath |
VS SPT Win 5-1 |
Lauren Lo | The girls had a solid win against St Pats, some wonderful through balls and triangle movement up the field led to a 5-1 win. Excellent saves made by Cara and a great backline with Lauren making some excellent runs back to support our keeper and allow our score to remain positive. |
|
Soccer 7-8 Boys Mr King |
VS SBCC Loss 3-2 |
Vincent Brancati |
The boys got off to a very slow start against a strong St Benedicts side going down 3-0 before the break. While this certainly wasn’t what we anticipated, a positive team talk at half time and a few key positional changes saw the boys fight back hard in the second half to reel back two goals in quick succession, thanks to some very cool finishing by Isaiah Nakasenh and Sean Phonthaphanh. A special mention must go to Vincent Brancati, Tadhg Healy and Shou Ye for their outstanding work rate which helped change the dynamics of the game during the second half. The boys threw everything they had at their opposition and were unfortunate to go down 3-2 in the end. Despite the loss, the boys can be proud of their achievement today, the courage, fight and never-say-die attitude was impressive. |
|
Soccer 9-10 Boys Mr Berkeley |
VS SBCC Win 2-1 |
Cameron Taylor |
An amazing effort by the boys today against a quality opposition. The boys dominated from the opening whistle controlling possession and field position and scored an amazing team goal through Lachlan Baker. St Benedicts came out with increased intensity in the 2nd half, with Cameron Taylor making some miraculous saves in goal before SBCC scored an equaliser after a scramble in the box. The team quickly recomposed themselves and retook the lead through a Baxter Bastoli goal which sealed the win. |
|
AFL 10-12 Girls Mrs Abra |
VS THAC Loss 38-35 |
Charlotte Sisonoun |
With another minute on the clock, Charlotte would have scored another 6 points that could have sent us to victory. The whistle blew as it reached Charlotte’s hand and as the last play of the ball had already been completed, Thomas Hassall came away with the win. Charlotte Sisounon was our MVP with an impressive 21 points out of the 35. She is a force to be reckoned with as is the rest of the team who worked brilliantly with their kicking and catching technique. The team is starting to play smarter and conserve their energy (especially when we have no substitutes) as well as being more aggressive in defence and faster in attack. We have a bye next week, so bring on Round 5 where we can keep learning, developing and having an awesome time along the way! |
|
AFL 10-12 Boys Mr Kawa |
VS THAC Win 66-0 |
Kurt Enders |
After a poor start to the season the boys finally got stuck in and finally got a win. With stand-in coach Mr Huntly showing his experience and finding a way to get the most out of the boys to get off the mark in their MISA season. The team was led at the front by Kurt Enders who was on fire making some important disposals and kicking his way into the points on a number of occasions. Hopefully they take some confidence with this win and get the job done against MAG. |
| 15 August | NSW CCC Opens Netball School Based Competition |
| 16 August | MISA Golf Championships |
| 11 September | NSWCCC Athletics |
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 |
| 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 |
Young People need to aim high and to know that their community support them. Our children are our most valuable resource and, all too often, their academic achievements can be neglected. We do encourage learning and reward relevant students.
If you would like to donate towards the Year 12 Academic Medallions, the cost of each medallion is $40.00 or three for $100.00. If you wish to donate towards a particular subject, please visit our office or contact us on 9603 3000 to pay over the phone.
