This coming week marks the commencement of the season of Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday. Lent is a 40 day season which acts as a period of preparation in the lead up to the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection at Easter. During lent, we focus on prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Prayer during lent allows us to focus on our need for God’s forgiveness and demonstrates our repentance for the times when we haven’t lived according His plan. Fasting is a common tradition during Lent where we give up something that we often consider to be a regular part of life, as a way of acknowledging the sacrifice that Jesus made for us on the cross. Almsgiving is a very practical way that we respond to the need to support those who may be marginalised both within and beyond our community. As a College, we do this by our very valuable participation in Project Compassion which will also be launched at our Ash Wednesday celebration this week. 

Earlier this week, we gathered as a Eucharistic community to celebrate our Opening College Mass. At the outset, I take the opportunity to to thank the large number of parents who were able to join us for what ended up being the largest single gathering that the College has ever hosted, and a fitting way to commence this year. As part of proceedings, we took the opportunity to welcome 13 new staff members who have joined our College community this year, in addition to 210 Year 7 students who commenced their time at Magdalene as the Graduating Class of 2029. I also thank Fr Michael, Mr O’Neil, Mr Sligar and our fantastic musicians who each played such a significant role in this celebration. 

Although the year is only just underway, we have a number of significant events coming up over the coming weeks. On Monday, we will welcome all our new Year 7 parents to the College for our annual Meet and Greet event. This Wednesday, our Year 12 students will head off on their Senior Retreat, an event that many students look back on at the end of the year as one of the highlights of their senior school experience. Our College Swimming Carnival is being held on Friday 23 February and our Year 11 Information Evening is being held on the evening of Monday 26th. We look forward to parents joining us at each of these events and at many more events that we have planned throughout the year. 

You may be aware that we have also recently opened online enrolment applications for Year 7 in 2025. If you have any children who are currently in Year 6 or if you have family or friends who are wishing to join us next year, please be aware that our Year 7 2025 Open Afternoon will be held on Monday 4th March. More details will be circulated in the coming weeks. 

Finally this week, I take the opportunity to thank all families who have supported the College in preparation for a smooth and successful start to the new school year. This partnership is one that we value and are looking forward to building upon as the year progresses. Wishing you all the very best for the week ahead, 

David Cloran

College Principal

To ensure the safety of our students at arrival and departure times, please keep in mind the following.

• The student car park is for Year 12 students only
• Cars are not to turn right out of the driveway between the hours of 7:30-8:30am and 2:30-3:30pm
• Please do not do a U-turn after dropping your child near the bus bay.
• For drop offs and pick ups at the roundabout, please move as far forward as possible before having your child get in/out of the car.
• Please note that there can be no parking, pick ups or drop offs in the bus bay or bus zone areas along Smeaton Grange Road of a morning/afternoon.

Our upcoming P & F Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday 20 February at 7pm in the College Library.

The Australian Space Design National Finals (ASDC) is a high-octane industry simulation event that unfolds over a weekend in mid-January. Finalists from the ASDC Qualifying Round come together to form aeronautical engineering companies and tackle a new Request for Tender (RFT) based on a space settlement scenario. With just 30 hours to meet the RFT requirements and present their designs, the competition culminates in formal presentations to a panel of expert judges.

Magdalene teachers Rosanne Taccone and Chris Ferry, along with our six students, Grant Soinks, Logan Clare, Christine Brazier, Isla Attard, Lachlan Campbell, and Angelina Bampton, journeyed to Brisbane for this event held between January 13-14, 2024. Despite a plane cancellation on Friday afternoon, staff and students arrived in muggy Brisbane and settled into St Leo’s College Student Accomodation for the weekend. Christine, Grant and Isla even hopped up early on Saturday to join Mr Ferry in running the 5km St Lucia Park run alongside the Brisbane river at 7am, to get the blood flowing!

The event took place at the University of Queensland St Lucia campus, with students working tirelessly from 8am on Saturday morning until the presentations began at 5:30pm on Sunday evening. Throughout the weekend, students received guidance from industry experts including several Boeing Engineers and Space Design Competitions Australia Alumni, who shared their knowledge and insights. They competed for a qualifying place in the International competition, held in Florida, US each year. 

Over the intense 30-hour competition, these talented and dedicated Magdalene students took part in the Australian Space Design National Finals. This STEM challenge, resembling the complexities of the engineering industry, demanded not only technical expertise but also skills in workplace relations, marketing, and people management.

Our Magdalene team joined forces with James Ruse High and St Aidan's Brisbane to form the 30 person 'Crux’ company, embarking on an exciting journey to secure a hypothetical space station project set in the year 2059. Grant Spinks led the structural engineering department, while Lachlan Campbell headed the Human Factors division, collaborating with Isla and Christine on the space's design outside working hours. Angelina and Logan were instrumental in the Business and Robotics teams.

Their remarkable journey culminated in a live-streamed presentation, where five competing companies battled for the coveted contract. You can still watch the event here: Facebook Link.

Lachlan Campbell and Grant Spinks led the charge, delivering an impressive presentation before a panel of industry professionals. Their team members, Logan Clare, Christine Brazier, Isla Attard, and Angelina Bampton, played crucial roles in this endeavour leading up to the presentation. All students represented Magdalene College with distinction. We eagerly look forward to returning next year, aiming to achieve even greater heights.

Despite their outstanding presentation and confident responses to the judges' questions, Crux did not secure the tender. Nevertheless, their resilience and dedication were evident, leaving us convinced that they were among the top contenders.

We cannot forget to mention the invaluable support of Mrs Rosanne Taccone, who tirelessly assisted the students throughout the competition weekend. Our genuine thanks go to Rosanne. All travellers returned home safely, exhausted but enriched by an experience that transcends STEM knowledge and skills.

A video showcase will be presented at Assembly during Term 1, but please enjoy some photos from the event. 

Mr Chris Ferry

ASDC Coordinator

Lent starts next week with Ash Wednesday where we are reminded of our sinfulness and also of the saving grace granted to us though the death and resurrection of Jesus. People often give up things in Lent, which is a great idea because it helps us to build our strength to fight temptation and to move ever closer to God in prayer. Also, what about taking up something? Can we commit to reading a Bible passage every day for Lent? Can we commit to a bit of extra prayer or meditation time? Can we deliberately go out of our way to perform acts of kindness for others? Can some of our Lenten practices continue for the rest of the year or even the rest of our lives? Here is a great opportunity to prepare ourselves for the celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus and all that it means for Christians.

 Prayer:

Jesus, help us to  focus our lives more fully on you and others during this Lenten period so that we can improve all of our relationships and live lives that reflect our faith in your life, death and resurrection.

Mary Magdalene,

Pray for us

Amen

We acknowledge the Dharawal people, Traditional Owners of the land on which we met on the first of February 2024 with the students from 7 HSIE 1, a fantastic group of young people on their first day and formal History lesson at Magdalene.  We started with a photo in front of the College Reception. This photo in years to come will be viewed as an artefact  as our students look back into their own personal histories. Even Mr Trimarchi, our Groundsman, dropped in to say hello!  What better way to start than to walk through some of the history of the Magdalene site, with the members of our current year 7 ready to become part of the school’s ongoing history.

The original grant of land was made to Charles Throsby and then purchased by James Fitzpatrick who had come to Australia as a convict in 1822. His daughter, Elizabeth married Edward Sedgwick who built Sedgwick House, our office in 1894. Their son Ted was born in 1896 and served in the First World War, returning to dairy farming on the property. In the 1960’s the site was a novitiate and retreat centre of the Patrician Brothers and in the year 2000, the site became the home for Magdalene Catholic High School which has evolved into the Magdalene Catholic College of today.

Yours in living history

Mrs Russo

HSIE/ RE teacher

Welcome to the first edition of Maths Matters for 2024. Each edition of this article aims to offer Magdalene families insights into student learning in Mathematics.

In each edition of Maths Matters, there will feature a fascinating “Maths Marvel”, shedding light on a captivating mathematical fact. Each edition of Maths Matters will also include an intriguing “Maths Mystery” to solve, carefully selected to relate to one of the current topics being studied by our students. Families are encouraged to tackle these challenges together, fostering rich discussions and problem-solving skills at home. Feel free to use calculators and do some research, but remember, no direct Googling allowed. The answer to the problem will be shared in the next edition of Maths Matters.

New Syllabus for 2024 (Year 7 and 9)

This year marks an exciting transition in the Mathematics curriculum for our Year 7 and 9 students as we embark on the implementation of the new syllabus. A key change you may notice is that the 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 streams are no longer a feature in the new Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10) Mathematics Syllabus*. Instead, topics in Stage 5 are categorised as ‘Core’ and ‘Path’. The Core–Paths structure is designed to encourage aspiration in students and provide the flexibility needed to enable teachers to create pathways for students working towards Stage 6. The structure is intended to extend students as far along the continuum of learning as possible and provide solid foundations for the highest levels of student achievement.

The structure allows for a diverse range of endpoints up to the end of Stage 5. The aim for most students is to demonstrate achievement of the Core and as many Path outcomes as possible by the end of Stage 5. Teachers also have the option of engaging with specific elements of Paths rather than the entire outcome to meet the needs of their students. Students who demonstrate understanding of Core topics are encouraged to complete extension activities to extend their knowledge, and are asked to check in with their teacher regarding this opportunity for guidance.

*Note that Year 10 2024 is not studying the new syllabus. 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 streams still apply. 

*Note that Year 8 2024 is continuing to progress with the Stage 4 Mathematics syllabus from 2023

Access to course Scope and Sequence

All students at Magdalene can access the Mathematics Scope and Sequence for their course of study via the Mathematics Resource Centre (available through Compass). This document provides students with a clear roadmap of what they will learn throughout their Mathematics course and help them to understand the progression of concepts and skills, allowing for better preparation and organisation.

What topics are students currently studying in Mathematics?

Year 7 - Computation with Integers

Year 8 - Algebraic Techniques

Year 9 - Indices

Year 10 (5.1) - Financial Mathematics

Year 10 (5.2) - Right-Angled Trigonometry

Year 10 (5.3) - Trigonometry and Pythagoras’ Theorem

Year 11 Numeracy - Data in the World 

Year 11 Standard - Earning and Managing Money

Year 11 Advanced - Functions

Year 11 Extension 1 - Combinatorics

Year 12 Numeracy - Life After School (current focus - Taxation)

Year 12 Standard 2 - Rates and Ratios

Year 12 Advanced - Differential Calculus

Year 12 Extension 1 - Vectors, Trigonometric Equations

Year 12 Extension 2 - The Nature of Proof, Using Complex Numbers

MATHS MARVEL:

There is no Roman numeral for zero

MATHS MYSTERY - Course: Year 11 Mathematics Standard

Aidan works a 35-hour week and is paid at an hourly rate of $17. Any overtime hours  worked are paid at time-and-a-half. In a particular week, he earned $748. How many hours in total did Aidan work in this week to earn this amount?

Stay tuned for the next edition to reveal the answer to the Maths Mystery. 

Mrs Broady

Leader of Learning - Mathematics

Next week, the season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, which also marks the beginning of the annual Caritas Australia Project Compassion Appeal. Donations to Project Compassion allow Caritas Australia, the Catholic Agency for International Aid and Development, to work with local communities around the world to end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity. 

Magdalene Catholic College will be running a variety of initiatives this term, commencing with the highly anticipated Annual Staff Vs Students Pancake Cookoff on Tuesday, February 13th. We kindly encourage parents to support their children to actively engage in these forthcoming initiatives. Please give generously to Caritas Australia this Lenten season and help vulnerable people around the world, now and for all future generations.

With your support, Caritas Australia has been able to assist communities around the world through income generation, water and sanitation, food security, education and disaster risk reduction programs. 

Project Compassion 2024 reminds us that the good we do today will extend and impact the lives of generations to come. Together, we can help vulnerable communities face their challenges today and build a better tomorrow.

You can donate through Project Compassion donation boxes and online by visiting Caritas or by calling 1800 024 413.

Name: Hamish Henderson

Favourite Subject: Science

What I will do to help Year 8: This year, I will listen to my fellow students’ concerns and try my best to help to change it. 

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: I hope to be a better and more approachable student this year so anyone can come to me and share any worries with me or changes that should be made.

Motto to live by: Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard

Name: Evelyn Poppleton

Favourite Subject: My favourite subject is Art because it is one of my best talents.

What I will do to help Year 8: I will gladly and willingly help Year 8 this year by being motivational and try to encourage our year group to achieve great things when it comes to learning. This will benefit them in so many ways such as pride and self confidence. I will also help Year 8 by being a role model and be someone they can rely on and ask questions. This links to our year group theme T.E.A.M: Together everyone can achieve more! 

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: Something I hope I will be able to achieve in Year 8 and in the Magdalene community is foster an environment that makes people want to go to school and make efficient changes that benefit everyone in Year 8 and other grades.

Motto to live by: A motto that I live by is will it matter in 5 years.

Name: Sara Puse

Favourite Subject: My favourite subject is Maths. I like this subject because I enjoy challenging myself to use my problem solving skills and follow difficult algorithms.

What I will do to help Year 8: I hope to help Year 8 this year by being a role model who leads by example and will work with my peers to improve student life at Magdalene.

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: 

As a member of the Magdalene community, I hope that I can grow in my learning and academic life, as well as in my physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing.

Motto to live by: A motto that I live by is, 'Your only limit is you.' I like to live by this motto because it always reminds me through tough times that anything is possible, so long as I put my mind to it and be the best version of myself.

Name: Paul Collis

Favourite Subject: Sport and PDHPE.

What I will do to help Year 8: I will try my best to better the school by helping others.

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: I am hoping to make the Year 7-9 basketball team and receive an academic award by the end of the year.

Motto to live by: Just do it.

As we begin 2024, it gives me great pleasure to introduce to the Magdalene community our  Year 10 Student Representative Council.

Juliet Merheb

Favourite Subject: Sport and PDHPE

What you aim to do to help Year 10: 

I would like to be a voice for them and a point of contact if they have any problems or need anything discussed they can come to me and I can put forth any issues in the meetings. I would like to be approachable and create an environment where people feel comfortable coming to me with their concerns or ideas. Additionally, I strive to actively listen to others, ensuring that everyone's perspective is valued and respected.  

What you hope to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: 

I would like to as a team create a safe relaxed environment for the Magdalene community

Ella Presti 

Favourite Subject: English and PASS

What you aim to do to help Year 10: 

My hope is to bring our year group closer together as well as being their voice in every aspect of college life.

What you hope to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: 

My goal is to spread awareness for our charitable events and ensure the entire Magdalene Community feels included and appreciated.

Lachlan Campbell

Favourite subject: Mathematics.

What you aim to do to help Year 10:

This year I aim to help my peers reach their own personal bests and to help everyone maintain a high standard of work. Throughout the year I would also like to engender numerous other social initiatives within the grade. 

What you hope to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year:

I hope to be able to promote a stronger awareness of Australian Indigenous issues within our local context.

Luke Severin

Favourite subject: PASS (Physical Activity and Sport Studies)

What you aim to do to help Year 10:

My primary goal is to support Year 10 students in their overall growth and development. I aim to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment where students feel valued and motivated to excel. Through personalised guidance and encouragement, I strive to help students build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and achieve their academic and personal goals.

What you hope to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year:

In the Magdalene Community this year, I hope to foster a culture of inclusivity, respect, and collaboration. I aim to encourage students to actively participate in community events and initiatives, promoting empathy, understanding, and unity. 

Congratulations to Isabella James, Liliola Ward, Elanor Ward and Blessing Donvenekham for being selected to represent the Wests Tigers (Isabella, Liliola and Elanor) and Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles (Blessing) in the 2024 Westpac Lisa Fiaola Cup. This is an U/17 competition, consisting of 13 clubs throughout NSW, each playing games across nine rounds. 

Trials and selection for this competition started in September, 2023, consisting of over 75 young women competing to be named in the summer squad. Official pre-season training then began in November. Final selections, in the form of multiple pre-season trial matches, took place in December and January, with all four girls being successful announced within the final squad. 

The Wests Tigers had their first competition match against the Cronulla Sharks last weekend, winning 20-18. A massive well done ladies on your first win. A special mention to Isabella who scored her first try for the season. Good luck to Elanor, Liliola and Isabella who play against the Sydney Roosters on Saturday at Leichhardt Oval.

The Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles started the season with a bye. We wish Blessing all the best in her first game this weekend against the St George-Illawarra Dragons, to be played at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Sydney.

Congratulations to Tristan Azzopardi who represented Malta U/16 side at the NSW Rugby League Harmony 9’s. This competition was played in October of 2023, held at Croome Road Sporting Complex, Albion Park. The Harmony 9’s is a tournament that brings together talented young Rugby League players, competing in a modified competition. With only nine players on the field at one time, it makes it for a more challenging and exciting competition. The Harmony 9’s also is a competition that is used to celebrate culture and diversity in Rugby League. Tristan was fortunate enough to compete against Italy and the Philippines. This is such a fantastic achievement. Well done.

Mr Tim Manns

Year 11 Coordinator

In recent years, parents were required to give consent via a paper form for both Use of Student Image and Technology Agreement. With the recent Compass upgrade, this permission can now be completed electronically through the 'Insights' section.

A helpful user guide is attached below, please contact the College if you have any enquiries.

Please contact the College if you would like to more information on volunteering at the canteen.