On Wednesday of last week, students and staff of the College gathered for our annual Ash Wednesday liturgy, which marked the beginning of the season of Lent. During the liturgy, each member of our community was marked with a cross on their forehead as the minister said “turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel”. These words call us to not only reflect upon our actions and behaviours, but to turn towards Jesus as a model of how to live our lives. Lent can provide an opportunity for us to break old habits and establish new ones so that Lent’s observances can have both a positive and lasting impact on our lives, and not just for the next forty days. 

On the day before Ash Wednesday, known as Shrove Tuesday, I was delighted to be joined by two of our Year 10 leaders, Ella Presti and Lachlan Campbell, along with our Youth Ministry Coordinator, Miss Sarah Neasy, at the launch of Project Compassion which was held at John Therry Catholic College in Rosemeadow. At the launch, Bishop Brian Mascord encouraged all present to consider the role that prayer, fasting and almsgiving will play throughout their Lenten journey, and highlighted how our involvement in Project Compassion can have such a real, tangible impact on the lives of those who are less fortunate. 

Last week we had the incredible joy of experiencing the Year 12 Retreat for the Class of 2024. The retreat was held at two sites, Kiah Ridge and Mt Carmel Retreat Centre, and there was an overwhelming sense of community and fun at both retreat sites. While there was a spiritual side to the retreat, including Reconciliation and Mass, which many students enjoyed, the highlights for most students also centered around the affirmations they received from others and listening to the stories of other students in the large group and the small groups. Many students commented that they enjoyed learning things about people that they hardly knew. 

Congratulations to the Year 12 students who put so much into the retreat and will hopefully carry this experience with them for the rest of the year and possibly the rest of their lives.

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

Opening Mass

The Opening Mass on Thursday 8 February was the first performance opportunity for Music staff and students. Yr 12 students eagerly attended lunch rehearsals and assumed leadership roles within the Music Ensemble. The talented students are to be acknowledged for their significant musical contribution to the celebratory occasion.

Vocals: Emilia Leopardi, Myah Donohue, Charlotte Cornett, Helen Al Morani, Emilia Keramea

Keyboard: Alexander Cooper-Crowley

Bass Guitar: Ethan Williams

Rhythm Guitar: Ms Curtis

Drums: Liam Donnelly 

Sound: Ms Slender

Yr 7 ‘Meet and Greet’ Evening 

Year 12 Musicians Alexander Cooper-Crowley and Joseph Piefke enthusiastically performed at the Year 7 ‘Meet and Greet’ held on Monday 12 February in the College Hall. The two senior students attended the evening and displayed their fine guitar playing skills. Thank you, Alexander and Joseph! 

Music Ensembles

Music Ensemble is a new initiative of the College with the purpose of preparing students to perform for College Events and Functions. This may include rehearsing musical items for Mass, Assemblies, lunch concerts to significant events such as Shines. 

At least one term commitment is required from the students, with no alternation of attendance between Music Ensemble and SPORT.

When? Tuesday Afternoons during SPORT.

Who? Students 7-12 who are already competent on an instrument or vocals and are prepared to work towards performing for College events.

Please speak to Ms Curtis or Ms Slender to register your interest.

Ms Curtis

Leader of Learning Performing Arts

We are thrilled to welcome Year 9 back to Magdalene where they will be open to new experiences and have opportunities for growth. This term will be filled with various activities, specifically camp which will be in week 11.

Students have taken it in their stride to approach their school day aligned with The Magdalene Way, delved into class content and have shown a real interest in their elective subjects. During Pastoral Care we started to explore our year theme ‘Activate, Elevate, Replicate’ through some introductory activities and conversations. To get the students engaged in embracing challenges they were given the opportunity to work in small groups to create a balloon tower. Well done to Dunne and Chisholm who got creative and worked well as a team.

I also take the opportunity to re-introduce to the college community our year 9 SRC leaders for the year. I am confident they will lead the year group in fine form and contribute to the wider community throughout the year.

Name: Isaac Healy

Favourite Subject: Timber and PASS

What I will do to help year 9: I will support and promote sporting and fitness events throughout Magdalene for Year 9 students. 

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: For everyone to be happy and strive to be their very best 

Motto to live by: You get what you give

Name: Indianna Keegan

Favourite Subject: Dance

What I will do to help year 9: I'm 100% committed to going above and beyond to assist Year 9 students on their academic and social journeys.

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: I want to make an impact through mentoring, organising events, or collaborating on projects. I'm extra determined to contribute positively to the community and create a vibrant, inclusive environment.

Motto to live by:  "If you are not obsessed with your life, change it."

Name: Tomas Slater

Favourite Subject: iSTEM and Maths

What I will do to help year 9: Be a healthy role model and someone my peers can always come to for a chat.

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: To further make Magdalene a place where people are comfortable to be themselves

Motto: Never give up

Name: Giuseppina Vecchio

Favourite Subject: TECH

What I will do to help year 9: Listen to others ideas 

What I am hoping to achieve in the Magdalene Community this year: To improve as a Magdalene student

Motto to live by: God removed people from our life because he heard conversations you didn't hear.

Congratulations to Adelaide Bell who was recently awarded a netball umpire scholarship to the South West Sydney Academy of Sports TOUR program after achieving her National C level umpire badge at local community netball. This program aims to develop talented umpires, referees and officials within high performance sport. Learning from umpire mentors from Netball NSW, the program includes development in both training and performance scenarios, with an added focus on communication and interaction with athletes and coaching staff. Adelaide is hoping to achieve her National B level while at the Academy. The College wishes Adelaide the very best as she progresses through officiating ranks.

Congratulations Cristian Quespe Guzman for his love and involvement in soccer. Over the last few years, Christian has demonstrated his passion for soccer by refereeing indoor soccer at Smeaton Grange and volunteering as a ball boy for Macarthur FC. Cristian has also gone above and beyond by taking on the responsibility of becoming a coach for the Macarthur Association Development Program (ADP), as well as Macarthur FC holiday program. The ADP provides boys and girls aged 5-13 the opportunity to develop their technical skills in a program designed to help kids reach their full potential. The ADP is designed to supplement the club player’s local training and provide the technical assistance needed to build a set of skills that will enhance the player’s ability to perform better on match days, at training, and trials for future representative squads. Well done!

Last week, Year 12 students embarked on a transformative journey during their annual retreat. Amidst the serene backdrop of nature, they delved into moments of introspection, fostering deeper connections with themselves and one another. Spread across two sites at Kiah Ridge in Tahmoor and Mt Carmel Retreat Centre in Varroville, we had the privilege of sharing our stories and strengthening our relationships with those outside of our regular friendship groups. 

We engaged in a variety of enjoyable activities that strengthened our connections to one another and brought out confidence in expressing ourselves, including a newspaper fashion show, writing affirmations, karaoke, Just Dance, bushwalks, free time/reflection and making informational videos.

Upon arrival, we held an Ash Wednesday liturgy to celebrate the start of Lent, commencing the three days ahead helping us to develop and express our spirituality and connection with God as individuals and a cohort. 

One of the highlights of the retreat was the small group sharing sessions. We were able to engage in heartfelt conversations, sharing our thoughts, fears, and dreams in a safe and supportive environment. These exchanges allowed us to empathise with one another's experiences, fostering a sense of camaraderie and understanding.

Meditation and journaling played a central role in the retreat, providing us with valuable tools to find inner peace. Guided by Magdalene’s experienced staff, we explored various meditation and reflection techniques, learning to embrace stillness amidst the chaos of our final year of schooling.

This experience was invaluable to the year 12 community and the connection made has carried through to our everyday school life, with a whole grade picnic at lunch on the Monday after we returned and an overall positive atmosphere amongst students. We thank Mrs Taccone, Mrs Hayden, Mr O’Neill, Mr Sligar and all of the supervising staff for organising and guiding us through this wonderful experience, which will be a vivid part of our school memories forever. 

Mrs Rosanne Taccone

Year 12 Coordinator

Assessment Schedules

The Mathematics Resource Centre (available through Compass) provides Assessment Schedules for all Mathematics courses. While students will receive Assessment Notifications for formal Assessment Tasks via Google Classroom, reviewing the Assessment Schedule in advance can help students to begin preparing for their tasks earlier and allow them to have more time to identify areas where they may need additional study or practice.

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. 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 students are currently studying in Mathematics?

Year 7 - Computation with Integers 

Year 8 - Algebraic Techniques 

Year 9 - Algebraic Techniques 

Year 10 (5.1) - Numbers of any Magnitude 

Year 10 (5.2) - Algebraic Techniques 

Year 10 (5.3) - Surds and Algebraic Techniques 

Year 11 Numeracy - Data in the World 

Year 11 Standard - Formulae and Equations

Year 11 Advanced - Functions
Year 11 Extension 1 - Combinatorics 

Year 12 Numeracy - Life After School

Year 12 Standard 2 - Investments and Loans

Year 12 Advanced - Integral Calculus

Year 12 Extension 1 - Trigonometric Equations 

Year 12 Extension 2 - Using Complex Numbers

MATHS MARVEL:

The original 3x3x3 Rubik’s cube can be scrambled in 43 252 003 274 489 856 000 different ways. That’s over 43 quintillion combinations!

MATHS MYSTERY - Course: Year 11 Mathematics Extension 1

Families are encouraged to tackle this problem together. 

Taylor walks into a restaurant for a three course dinner. There are four different entrees, eight different main meals, and three different desserts to choose from. Assuming Taylor wants to eat an entree, a main meal and a dessert, in how many different ways could Taylor order her three course dinner?

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

Answer from the previous MATHS MYSTERY - 41 hours

Mrs Broady

Leader of Learning - Mathematics

The Critical Thinking Elective is a new subject being trialled across the Wollongong Diocese. The course promotes students to apply research skills to analyse problems and question evidence to make informed decisions. The course covers a variety of topics, such as Ethical Decision Making, Strategies used in Business and War, and Innovations in Sport.

On the 8th and 9th of February, five Year 10 students had the opportunity to attend two Critical Thinking Immersion Days. This opportunity was extended to high achieving students, recognising them for their academic achievements throughout their time at Magdalene. This course was seen as a great opportunity for these students to extend their thinking and challenge them to think outside the box in a unique blended learning environment. The students were joined by about 25 other students from around the diocese, congregating at the University of Wollongong. The day provided students with an insight into the coursework for the new elective, and allowed them to meet the students they would work with for the rest of the year.

Early Start Building the University of Wollongong.

The Immersion covered ten hours of the course, where students studied Conspiracy Theories. They explored the dynamics and influences which affect the creation of conspiracy theories, the psychology behind conspiracy theories and how they impact society on a global scale. The students also studied the role of social media in today's generation, and it affects the spread and belief of conspiracy theories. 

Each day included a half hour talk from a guest speaker. The first, Dr Jordan Mackenzie, encouraged students to explore the psychology behind the belief in and formation of conspiracy theories. Professor Patrick Givern spoke about the science of conspiracy theories. He detailed how and why conspiracy theories are often viewed as flawed, using the same methods applied to the evaluation of scientific theories. 

This immersion has given the students an insight into the new approach being taken to the Critical Thinking Elective. The course will aim to add other Immersion Days, where those attending the course will have the opportunity to collaborate and share ideas. All assessment tasks will be compiled into a portfolio that will determine the final grading for the elective. 

Critical thinking is a valued skill that will likely be used in our planned future careers

Isla Attard, Angelina Bampton, Lachlan Campbell and Lachlan Chadwick (Year 10)

On February 16th, Year 12 Drama students embarked on an excursion to the Seymour Centre in Sydney. The 'OnStage’ Exhibit is a showcase of the finest drama projects from the 2023 Higher School Certificate (HSC), and acts as a source of inspiration and aspiration for our Year 12 Drama students. The exhibit provided our Year 12 students a glimpse into the creative possibilities of achievement in the performing arts.

This year, ‘OnStage’ presented a diverse array of performances, including monologues and dynamic group-devised performances. We were treated to a moved script reading, an element that showcased the raw potential of written words brought to life through the power of voice and emotion. This was complemented by a video drama, further illustrating the versatility of storytelling mediums available to students in their own HSC endeavours.

The 'OnStage’ exhibit not only celebrated the achievements of past students but also set a benchmark of excellence for them to aspire to.

The students have returned buzzing with excitement and inspiration, already using their learnings from this experience, to assist in their own Individual Projects and Group Performances. 

UOW Discovery Day

Year 12 students immersed themselves in a day of exploration and discovery at the University of Wollongong's Discovery Day on Monday, February 12th. The event provided a hands-on, authentic glimpse into university life, offering a valuable learning experience. Engaging workshops and interactive sessions allowed students to delve into various fields of study, sparking their curiosity and igniting their passion for learning. From science to arts, engineering to business, attendees embraced the opportunity to engage with faculty members and current students, gaining insights that will shape their academic journey. 

South Western Sydney 2024 Nursing Work Experience 

Applications are now open for Year 10 students interested in doing work experience at Campbelltown Hospital. Whilst the application process is extensive, it is certainly a worthwhile experience for those considering Nursing as a career. Please see Mrs Jones for an application package if you are interested. 

USYD Info Nights

Discover what a future at the University of Sydney looks like. 

Info Night is a chance for students in Years 10 – 12 to learn about admission requirements, entry schemes, pathways, fees, scholarships, financial assistance and support services from our expert staff and a UAC representative. 

You’ll also have time to speak with local current students and alumni from a range of study areas about their experiences and get advice on forging your own path to study.  

• Penrith - 12 March - Register: Book here!

• South Sydney - 13 March - Register: Book here!

• Parramatta - 14 March - Register: Book here!

• Fairfield - 19 March - Register: Book here!
  
  

2024 Discover Western Webinars 

This is a great resource for students and parents wanting to know more about careers and degrees in the fields of most interest to you? Not sure what subjects to select for your senior years? Let us support you to make informed decisions and discover more about why you should study at Western.

• Tuesday 27 February @5PM | What Can I Study? Communication, Music, Visual Design, Screen Media, Creative Industries
• Wednesday 28 February @5PM | What Can I Study? Criminology, Criminal and Community Justice, Policing, Law
• Thursday 29 February @5PM| What Can I Study? Business, Accounting
• Wednesday 6 March @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Information Technology, Data Science,

Mathematics

• Tuesday 12 March @5PM | What Can I Study? Engineering
• Wednesday 13 March @5PM | What Can I Study? Nursing, Midwifery
• Tuesday 19 March @5PM | What Can I Study? Psychology
• Wednesday 20 March @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Health Science, Physical Education, Sport Development and Exercise Science
• Thursday 21 March @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Speech Pathology, Podiatry, Paramedicine,

Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Tuesday 26 March @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Science, Medical Science
• Wednesday 27 March @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Social Science, Social Work
• Wednesday 3 April @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Teaching, Education
• Thursday 4 April @ 5PM | What Can I Study? International Studies, Tourism and Event

Management, Humanitarian and Development Studies

• Tuesday 9 April @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Arts, Languages, Interpreting and Translation
• Wednesday 10 April @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Architecture, Industrial Design, Construction Management, Planning
• Thursday 11 April @ 5PM | What Can I Study? Medicine

More information - Click here

MedEntry UCAT Workshops

For students in year 12 considering Medicine as a career.

29 March, 13 April, 18 May or 6 July

Feeling intimidated by the UCAT? You’re not alone. Most students are nervous as they approach this huge obstacle in their medical career. But you can sit the UCAT with confidence, knowing you have the right strategies and techniques to overcome every challenge. The key is Dr Ray’s UCAT Workshop - the most effective UCAT training course available.

More information - Click here

On Tuesday 27 February (Week 5), Magdalene will be starting up "Kilometre Club". Kilometre Club (KM Club) is a school-based physical movement program that aims to get students moving! Join us every Tuesday morning at 7:55am for an 8:00am start at the bottom of the Back Oval steps for a 1km walk (two laps of the Oval). This is a great chance to get outside, get moving, chat with your friends, and add some kilometres to a cumulative total which will take us as far as we can go! Don't forget a hat, and a water bottle. See Mr Cimino for more information!

2024 School Fees have now been invoiced and all families should have received a statement via email. (If you haven’t received your statement, please check your Junk folder in your email account)

Payment Method

The preferred payment method is either

• Bpay or 
• Payment through the COMPASS Portal

“Pay by Instalment”

• If you have a “Pay by Instalment” in place, please refer to your School Fee Statement for the breakdown of payments and the dates that the payments are due.

If you do not have a “Pay by Instalment” in place your School Fee payment will be due in full by Wednesday 28 February, 2024. If your fees aren’t paid by this date you will receive reminders for Overdue Fees.

If you wish to put one in place, please fill in the “Pay by Instalment” Form and email it directly to the Instalments email that can be found on the Form. You will receive a new Statement once the Instalment Form is processed.

School Fees - Change of Subjects – Yr9 to Yr12

If your child changes subjects during the first 4 weeks of Term 1, adjustments will only be made to your Fee Account once the appropriate “Change of Subject” paperwork has been approved and sent to the Finance Office for processing.

Difficulty with Payment

If you are experiencing financial difficulty, please contact the Finance Office to discuss options that may be available.

2024 Fees need to be finalised and paid in full by Friday 6th December 2024

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.