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Dear parents, friends, staff and students,
In last week’s newsletter, I outlined the events of this week which finished with the passion, crucifixion and death of Jesus. As I explained then, Holy week itself concludes with Jesus being laid in the tomb on Good Friday. This weekend however, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday. The resurrection is the most significant event in our faith. It is this resurrection that shows us that Jesus conquered death and gave back to us the hope of eternal life. In three days, He raised the temple of His body and did this under His own power and authority. It is this resurrection that is our message of salvation and the fact that God so truly loves us that he not only gave His only son, but He also gave us His full love and forgiveness. I have often said to the students that we are a people of Hope. When we make mistakes, stumble and fall, this is a normal part of the rhythm of life and this hope is a true value of our faith and sets us apart.
Today we held our Holy Thursday Liturgies. This is an opportunity for us to come together as a College community and to recognise and share some of the ceremonies and values that are important to our faith. Our students relayed the message of Holy Week and were able to paint a clear picture not only of the events but also of their importance to us. Congratulations to the students and staff involved in the setting up and presentation of this liturgy.
At the start of this week, our Year 7 students attended their start of high school camp at Teen Ranch in Cobbitty. This camp encourages the students to get to know those that they have not yet had much of a chance to interact with, and also to challenge themselves with some individual and groupwork experiences. The camp involves one day and evening with half the year group and one day with the whole group. Thank you to the students who entered into these activities with enthusiasm and to the teachers who gave their time to interact with, and supervise, the students. A special thank you to Mr Withnall (Year 7 Coordinator) for your organisation and support.
On Monday evening I attended the Campbelltown Council High Achievers’ ceremony. 31 of our HSC class of 2023 were invited to recognise their outstanding achievements in last year’s HSC. It was lovely to see them acknowledged with other students from the area and to receive a certificate from Dr George Griess the Mayor of Campbelltown. Congratulations to these students.
On Tuesday evening, Mr Huntly and myself accompanied three of our SRC to Wollongong to be present at the Chrism Mass. At this Mass, the priests renew their vows and the oils that will be used throughout the diocese over the following year are blessed. This is a very formal ceremony and we were honoured to be invited. Thank you to Jacob Ramos, Matias Rennert and Liam Tannoury for giving of your time to represent the College.Over the next few weeks, parents, students and staff will be invited to participate in a range of surveys that will provide feedback on various areas of the College and Diocese. Each survey will have a specific focus (Teacher, College, Principal or Diocese). The first of these occurred last week for students as they gave us some of their ideas on their own classes (PIVOT survey). Next term we will be asking for information on the College through our annual ‘Tell Them From Me’ survey and the community will also be invited to provide feedback on my leadership as I undergo my appraisal toward the end of term 2. Next week, you will each be invited to respond to a survey being conducted by Catholic Education, Diocese of Wollongong (CEDoW) around the Wellbeing and student support that is offered. This survey link will be sent via Compass text, and I encourage all community members to provide feedback to these surveys to enable us to review and improve our practices.
A reminder that we are now accepting enrolment applications for Year 7, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to ensure all documentation is included with the application prior to it being lodged. The due date for applications is 2pm on April 12 (the last day of term 1).
I wish you all a relaxed and Holy Easter weekend.
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EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD Mass of Solemnity with Lectionary & Missal texts of Easter Sunday |
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| First Reading | Acts of the Apostles 10:34. 37-43 |
Peter recounts the deeds of Jesus. |
| Responsorial Psalm | Ps 117:1-2. 16-17. 22-23. R. v.24 |
(R.) This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad. |
| Gospel Acclamation |
Corinthians 5:7-8 |
Alleluia, alleluia! Christ has become our paschal sacrifice; let us feast with joy in the Lord. Alleluia! |
| Gospel |
John 20:1-9 |
Mary Magdalene finds the tomb empty, Peter sees and believes. |
YEAR 12 Parent/Teacher/Student INTERVIEWS
Wednesday 10 April
Year 12 Parents and Guardians are encouraged to book interviews with your child’s teachers to discuss their progress and determine strategies to prepare for their final six months of secondary education. Interviews for Year 12 2024 are being held on Wednesday April 10 between 4pm and 8pm in the Champagnat Centre. Bookings can be made via the Compass Parent Portal and will be open from 4pm on Monday 18th March. A guide on how to make a booking can be seen here. If you are experiencing any issues with logging into Compass or making any appointments, please contact Mrs Rina Domingo via an email to domingor01@dow.catholic.edu.au or call the College on 9603 3000. Bookings will close at 3pm on Tuesday 9 April.
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TERM 1 |
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| Week 10 |
Year 10 03/04/2024: 10 English 04/04/2024: 10 D&T (100hr) Year 11 03/04/2024: 11 CAFS 03/04/2024: 11 SLR (1 unit) 05/04/2024: 11 SICT Year 12 03/04/2024: 12 SOR2 04/04/2024: 12 Chemistry 04/04/2024: 12 Business Studies |
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| Week 11 |
Year 11 08/04/2024: 11 ITT (NEW DATE) 08/04/2024: 11 Ancient History 11/04/2024: 11 Society and Culture Year 12 09/04/2024: 12 IPT
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Leader of Learning - Curriculum Pedagogy & Leader of Learning - Curriculum Administration
With the Easter break approaching and the resumption of classes with only two weeks left in term 1, we wanted to take a moment to remind you of the upcoming transition to Winter uniforms starting from Day 1 of term 2.
It's important to note that all students are expected to wear the Winter Uniform from the beginning of Term Two. For detailed information regarding the hours of operation for both the Uniform Shop and the Second-Hand Clothing shop, please refer to the relevant section in this Newsletter.
College Uniform and Grooming
As we approach the Easter period, students are reminded of the uniform and grooming expectations of our College. There have been a few instances recently where students have needed to be reminded of College expectations surrounding uniforms and procedures have been followed in response to grooming choices of our students. The College would like support from parents and families to remind students that the College jumper is not to be worn instead of the Sports Jacket on sports days. The uniform and grooming expectations are outlined in the College diary and are reminded to students and families by our Pastoral team at the start of each College year.
Happy Healthy Easter
Over Easter, we encourage our students to find time to connect with family and to reflect on the place of God in their lives. The feeling of connectedness is a significant factor in helping to boost student mood and strengthen bonds within relationships. Students are encouraged to disconnect from devices and reconnect with the people in their lives.
Communication with the College -
Students attending hospital/discharged from hospital
If a student attends or is admitted to hospital for a health (including mental health) reason it is the parent/carer’s responsibility to ensure that necessary information on the care of their child is relayed to the school.
Health Services are unable to contact the school upon discharge for a variety of reasons including confidentiality and workload. Parents/carers are reminded to contact their child’s school. Hospitals provide parents with a discharge form, which will include the outcome of the health visit including referrals to community services for follow up.
To have the best start back at school before your child returns:
- Contact the School office and speak to your child’s Year Coordinator, or the Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Coordinator.
- Inform staff of what the emergency was, and;
- Inform staff what the Emergency Department recommended.
When your child returns to school they may find it hard to:
- Adjust back into school life.
- Keep on track with their education.
- Stay safe.
What do schools need to know?
- Brief Description: What happened and when?
- Current Health Status: How the student is feeling, and any immediate health concerns.
- Medical Advice: Any specific recommendations or restrictions, including care and safety plans.
- If medications are required to be given at school, please provide a letter outlining the details (e.g. medicine type, dosage, times etc) which is signed by your treating doctor.
- Follow-up: Any referrals made by the hospital or recommendations for follow-up appointments e.g.GP or psychologist.
- Return to School: A timeline of your child's expected return to school. In most cases your child will be able to return to school the following day, however, parents should consult with the school first, to ensure that the school is aware of the current health concerns and can ensure the safety of your child.
The school, in consultation with families, can put in place adjustments to support children and young people's wellbeing, physical health and academic learning. Working with the schools on this will help maintain a safe and supportive student environment.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all parents, carers, and students for their continued support throughout the term thus far. Should you have any questions or requests concerning your son or daughter's learning and well-being needs, please feel free to reach out to your respective Year Coordinator, Pastoral Advisor, Miss Toogood, or Mrs. Moore.
Mrs Theresa Moore Miss Rebecca Toogood
Acting Pastoral Care & Wellbeing Coordinator
Over the past weeks I have been discussing the critical importance of reading. Educational research and academic scholarship tell us that being a confident and competent reader has wide ranging positive effects on the personal, social and intellectual wellbeing of people from early childhood to the senior years. Research continues to highlight the enormous benefits of reading for pleasure. Young people, particularly, need stories to make sense of themselves and their world. They dream in story, daydream in story, remember, hope, believe, learn, and love in story. Encounters with books – as well as being sites for enjoyment, and critical and creative thinking – play a significant part in the formation of one’s identity.
The act of reading therefore plays a crucial role in everyone’s life. The English writer Jeanette Winterson – author of books such as Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal and Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit – states that books were her ‘magic carpets’ when she was young, taking her to a range of wonderful places. Books were also her friends. During her childhood, growing up in the city of Manchester, Winterson found a marvellous home in the local library, a community hub offering everyone a world rich in possibility, wonder, and awe.
We are a society yearning for a sense of possibility, wonder, and awe. As we come to the Easter break, I would encourage parents, teachers, and students to spend some quiet time with a good book. As the writer Virginia Woolf suggests, ‘Sometimes I think heaven must be one continuous unexpected reading.’ Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter. May the Risen Lord bless us with His peace and bring us new life.
Clare Murphy
English Coordinator and Literacy Instructional Coach
Hello and welcome to the ninth week of sports news at Mount Carmel Catholic College. This week, our school has achieved qualification for two major MISA finals and came close to securing spots in two others. Additionally, some of our students proudly represented Mount Carmel at the Diocesan Of Wollongong Rugby League Selection Trials in Albion Park.
Additionally, our Marist Boys Basketball team competed up in Gold Coast this week, facing off against Marist Schools from across the country. Despite being a young team against older and more experienced opponents, they displayed commendable competitiveness in every match. They exemplified the Marist spirit with pride and integrity, representing the college admirably. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the boys and their parents for their dedication, enabling us to participate in the tournament. This year serves as a rebuilding period, and we anticipate it will strengthen us for the challenges ahead in Melbourne in 2025. Congratulations to Isaac Ramos who was awarded the most valuable player from our team and Mario Aoun who was awarded the Champagnat award for his dedication to the team.
Upcoming Events
5 April: Diocesan Football Championships
12 April: College Cross Country Carnival
| Sport | Result | MVP | Short Report |
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Volleyball Years 7-9 Boys NIMM |
VS THAC Loss 2-1 |
Ashton Taelioa |
The MCCC Boys came out firing against a solid Thomas Hassel. The boys dominated the first set with some solid defensive work on the net and managed to run away with the set. This dominance ended when THAC stepped up their game and overcame our boys to win back to back sets showing why they came first overall in the competition. Well done to the boys who now fight off for 3rd place next week. |
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Volleyball Years 7-9 Girls HOBR |
VS THAC Loss 3-0 |
Alicia Lardizabal & Annalise Montgomery |
What a game to watch! The girls’ energy, enthusiasm and passion was so infectious and their encouragement of each other was fabulous to watch. After some long rallies and skillful returns the girls unfortunately went down 3 sets to 0 against a tall Thomas Hassal team. Despite dropping the first two sets, the girls didn’t lose their determination and competitive edge as they went for each and every ball and shot that was played. A special mention to both Alice and Annalise who had a great game. Alice winning 6 points at service. A special mention as well to Caitlin who was consistent and safe in all positions on the court. Well done girls. |
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Indoor Cricket Years 7-9 Girls OCOB
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VS BAC Loss 80-61 |
Eva Alvardo |
The MCCC team felt good coming into this matchup against a 2nd place BAC team, after a convincing win last week. The girls batted and bowled extremely well, with some excellent wicket keeping from Eva Alvarado. The girls should be very proud of their efforts seeing as they were short two players for this match and were able to create some competition against BAC. Well done girls |
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Basketball Years 10-12 Boys HARK |
Semi-Final VS BAC Loss 50-35 |
Aaron Pereira & Zachariah Baydoun |
Heading onto the court at Minto, we stepped into “The Land of the Giants” or so it seemed. Actually, it was only the BAC Basketball team. This did not phase us whatsoever as we knew size was only one obstacle. With passion, energy, pride and excitement, MCCC gave it everything we had. With a team of 10 players who had not played together, we were able to hold our heads up and make BAC work for every point. Aaron was our leading point scorer with 13 points and Zack was great with his steals and defence overall. Zack proved that grit, skill and determination can be a lethal weapon in basketball. Congratulations to all the boys! |
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Basketball Years 10-12 Girls ABRN |
Finished 1st place and into the Grand Final next week | ||
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Oztag Years 10-12 Boys KING |
Round 1 Replay VS SBCC Win 8-2 |
Jacob Latu & Jerome Taateo |
he boys got off to a sluggish start, letting in two early tries against St Benedict's Catholic College. However, they managed to lead 3-2 by halftime, thanks to tries from Brody Taateo, Hudson Warren, and Calvin Beltran. In what marked our strongest defensive performance of the season thus far, the team took control in the second half, scoring five additional tries. Preston Gallant scored twice, with Jerome Taateo, Barukh Semaia, and Nicholas Lalic each adding one. Jacob Latu was outstanding in defence, while Jerome Taateo's impressive solo try added to the team's momentum. Both deservedly earned the title of MVP this week. Congratulations on advancing to the Grand Final, boys! |
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Oztag Years 10-12 Girls HEAS |
Round 1 Replay VS STP Loss 8-2 |
Lauren Ahovelo |
The girls played extremely well in very hot conditions against a highly experienced St Patricks team. The match was back and forth with both teams demonstrating excellent attacking plays. Lauren, Taylah, Liesl and Beth were instrumental in breaking the St Patrick’s defensive line and we scored late in the game to get back in contention with a score of 3-2 with 5 minutes remaining. However, the large defensive effort by MCCC in the first half ultimately led to tired legs and injuries. Congratulations to the whole team! |
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Softball Years 7-9 Boys PONT |
Semi-Final VS MAS (b) Draw 10-10 |
Isaaiah Nakasenh | Thrilling match. MCCC showed a dominant performance in the first innings with all 5 of our starting batters making it to home base. It then looked to be a great start to our first fielding innings with a strikeout, however, MAS recovered well to score 5 runs on the board. The game came down to the final innings, and in the end both teams couldn't be separated with 5 more runs a piece to square the match at 10-10. Special mention to Isaiah as the MVP, scoring two runs and some strong pitching in the second innings. |
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.
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 |
A Transformative Experience in Challenges and Building Strong Connections
It was my pleasure to coordinate and lead Year 7 on their formative camp experience over the last few days. Throughout the camp, we witnessed students rise to challenges, demonstrate acts of resilience, and collaborate as pastoral groups forming stronger friendships and bonds. Whilst the camp was not without a few speedbumps, this helped to provide students with invaluable teaching and learning moments that could only be possible under these circumstances and with the support of the wonderful staff accompanying them.
The activities at Teen Ranch were carefully curated to challenge, inspire, and empower our students. From the heights of Rock Climbing to the fear-inducing High Ropes Challenge Course, each endeavour provided an opportunity for personal triumph and collective support. The Giant Swing, in particular, stands out as a symbol of courage and camaraderie, as students pulled each other up and cheered each other on to brave the exhilarating descent.
The Bush Skills sessions taught them invaluable knowledge about teamwork, and adapting to nature whilst rewarding them with some bush tucker for their hard work. On the other hand, Archery Tag tested their focus and precision in a spirited atmosphere of friendly competition, also giving the students some opportunities to get payback on their group leaders. However, serene moments, such as the night walk under the full moon, truly left a lasting impression. Guided by the Teen Ranch staff with the natural world around them, the campfire culminated in shared stories and laughter around the campfire.
While at school, students engaged in enriching discussions led by our Transitions and Pathways coordinator, Mr Andre Daniels. These conversations provided insights into the journey and pathways that each student can work towards at school and beyond. Additionally, they explored the significance of friendship with Mrs Tara Pontin, fostering a deeper understanding of empathy, support, and inclusivity within their peer groups. Students finished the school camp day with community-building games and Pastoral class challenges with Mr Simon Huntly and Mrs Theresa Moore.
I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to witness the growth and development of these students during this whole camp experience. On behalf of the College, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Teen Ranch for their support and guidance throughout the journey. I would also like to personally thank the Mount Carmel staff that helped to make this experience one to remember, both at the college and those who helped at Teen Ranch, especially those who stayed overnight - Ms Sophie Heath, Ms Rebecca Hobbs, Mr Joseph Estephan, Mrs Tanya Borg, Mrs Colleen Herborn, Mrs Taylah Belgre and Mr Paul Martin. Together, we have created memories that will resonate with our students for years to come, hopefully helping to shape their character and resilience for the challenges that lie ahead.
As I reflect on this transformative experience, I am reminded of the profound impact that shared adventures outside of the classroom can have on the holistic development of our students. I look forward to continuing this journey of growth and exploration with Year 7, nurturing the next generation of resilient and compassionate Mount Carmel graduates.
Mr Adam Withnall
Year 7 Coordinator
Come and celebrate Easter at
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish
193 St Andrews Rd, Varroville
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Holy Thursday |
Mass at 7:30pm |
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Good Friday |
Stations of the Cross at 10am The Passion of the Lord at 3pm |
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Easter Saturday |
Morning Prayer 9am Easter Vigil 7pm |
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Easter Sunday |
Mass at 9:30am & 5pm |
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
New Student Opal cards (including new Term Bus Passes) will be sent to the student’s nominated postal address within two weeks of their application being approved.
Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.
This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their child/youth Opal for any travel outside these times.
All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.
Mount Carmel School Bus Routes
Transit Systems (formerly Interline) school bus route timetable is available via this link. Contact phone number is 8118 7102. Please be advised that Bus Route for Willowdale is currently missing from this updated document.
Busabout school bus route timetable has not changed and is available via this link. Contct phone number is 4631 4200.
Enrolments 2024 Onwards
The CEDoW has transitioned to a new online enrolment platform, called Funnel, removing the use of all paper forms. Please take note, particularly for sibling applications. The online application form is accessible from the College website.
Social Media – Facebook & Instagram
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Coming soon! Watch this space!
P&F Clothing Pool
Due to the Public Holiday monday, the P&F Clothing Pool will not be open. The next open day will be 29 April from 9-11am. Please refer below for 2024 opening days and times. Please click below to view the schedule.
Rainer School Wear
Winter uniforms orders now available. Please click here.