This week’s Gospel reading takes place soon after Jesus first appeared before Mary Magdalene after his resurrection. It recounts him coming before his disciples for the first time as they gathered in a locked room, fearing for their own lives and the unknown intentions of the Jewish leaders. Jesus presented the wounds on his hands and side to his disciples before stating “ As the Father has sent me, so I send you”. There is often a temptation in our own lives to ‘lock the doors’ when times become difficult or stressful. This passage is a reminder that Jesus cannot be stopped by locked doors. He enters our lives in the midst of our fear, pain, doubt and confusion, and strengthens us to overcome our adversities or any obstacles that keep us from fulfilling the mission to which we are both called and sent. 

At our last College gathering, we were fortunate to have a number of students reenact the Stations of the Cross for us in a moving liturgy that saw the stations progress up the middle of the Alan McManus Hall here at Magdalene. I take this opportunity to thank the many students who participated in many hours of rehearsal for this gathering, under the expert guidance of Mrs Marino and Miss Neasy. It was really pleasing to incorporate the talent that is possessed by so many of our students with the liturgical significance of the season of Easter in such an important gathering for us as a faith-filled community. 

Earlier this week I had the pleasure of  joining our Year 12 Coordinator Mrs Rosanne Tacconne and our College Captains and Vice-Captains at a meeting with the Federal Education Minister Jason Clare and our Federal Local Member, Dr Mike Freelander at a reception for local student leaders. Among many topics discussed was the issues of adolescent mental health, housing affordability for young people and challenges facing the education systems across Australia. The ministers spoke openly and candidly about their intentions for these areas while affirming the leadership role that all our young people play in developing collaborative solutions to such critical issues. 

In recent times, the Catholic Education Office in Wollongong have been reviewing their approach to programs and initiatives that support student mental health and wellbeing. As part of this process, they are eager to seek input from our parent community with regards to their insights on this significant issue. Your contribution to the attached survey would be greatly appreciated. Students will also be given the opportunity to contribute to this study over the next week. 

While the coming week is sure to be a busy one for many, with Year 9 camp followed by our College Athletics carnival on Friday, I take the opportunity to wish all our students and staff a very well deserved, relaxing and enjoyable holiday period. I also thank the parent and carer community for the support that we have received throughout the term and for the ongoing partnership that we very much value as a College. I look forward to working with you all in the new term. 

Best wishes, 

David Cloran

Principal

John 20

“4 When she had said this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? For whom are you looking?’ Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, ‘Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.’ 16 Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to him in Hebrew,[b] ‘Rabbouni!’ (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, ‘Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, “I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.”’ 18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, ‘I have seen the Lord’; and she told them that he had said these things to her.”

This wonderful story of the resurrection, where Jesus died and rose again to pay the price for the sins of all humanity, is a reminder that our lives are in God’s hands, both now and in the next life. Also, for us at Magdalene Catholic College, we can marvel at the task that Jesus gave to Mary Magdalene. Firstly, she was the one chosen to meet Jesus before anyone else, immediately after his resurrection. Secondly, she was sent to bring this good news to the other apostles. 

Do we encounter Jesus in our family, our friends, our enemies, the circumstances, the joys and suffering of our lives, at church when we go to Mass and receive Holy Communion? Are we witnesses to the resurrection of Christ by the way we live?

College Prayer

Jesus, you chose Mary Magdalene to be the first witness to your resurrection. Help us to be filled with the power of your Spirit. May we become witnesses to your love and healing, both within and beyond this community.

Saint Mary Magdalene

Pray for us. 

We are delighted to reflect on the profound experience of our Holy Thursday liturgy. The event guided our students through the stations of the cross and was both reverent and spiritually moving.

Led by our dedicated Faith and Liturgy Councillors, in collaboration with our Youth Ministry Leaders, the Easter liturgy was enriched by the talent of our Year 12 Drama students and Drama Club. This collaborative effort touched the hearts of all who attended, bringing each station of the cross to life with solemnity and grace. Through their contributions, our students were able to deepen their understanding of the Easter story and its profound significance in our lives.

The participation of our Audio Visual Team ensured that every moment was captured with clarity and reverence, while volunteer students contributed their time and energy to make the event truly memorable. Together, we embarked on a journey of reflection, prayer, and contemplation, reconnecting with the essence of the Easter season.

As a college community, we are grateful for the opportunity to come together in such a meaningful way, allowing us to pause and reflect on the profound mysteries of our faith. The reverent atmosphere of the liturgy served as a poignant reminder of the importance of spiritual growth and reflection in our lives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the success of this event, and we look forward to continuing our journey of faith together as a college community.

We are thrilled to share the exciting news of our recent Easter fundraising initiatives, which brought joy and generosity to our college community.

Following our reverent Holy Thursday liturgy, our community came together for an Easter raffle filled with an array of enticing prizes. Led by our dedicated students in Year 11 and Year 8, the raffle was a resounding success, with both staff and students winning exciting prizes.

In addition to the Easter raffle, our college organised various fundraising activities, including bake sales, lolly bag sales, and more. Cohorts collaborated seamlessly to organise these events, with Years 9 and 12 hosting a bake sale, Years 8 and 11 leading the Easter raffle, and Years 7 and 10 preparing Easter lolly bags.

We are immensely grateful to all the families who generously supported these initiatives and the Year Coordinators who facilitated them. Thanks to your generosity, all proceeds from these events will be donated to Caritas Project Compassion, making a significant difference in the lives of those in need

As a College community, we are inspired by the spirit of compassion and solidarity that permeates our Easter fundraising efforts. Your generosity embodies the true meaning of Easter, reminding us of the importance of giving back and supporting those less fortunate.

Thank you once again to all who contributed to the success of our Easter fundraising initiatives. Your kindness and generosity are a testament to the strength and compassion of our college community.

On the 25th of March, the year 12 leaders attended National young leaders day at the international convention centre Sydney. 

On the day numerous examples of young leaders in Sydney schools, with their great environmental and political initiatives that affected their communities within and beyond school life.

During the course of the day, numerous speakers attended the day including Rose Jackson, the Minister of Youth. She taught us that our failures only lead to success if we are willing to learn from our mistakes and continue to improve. Paul Gallen spoke to the amount of time and training he had to put in, as a professional NRL star and Boxer, his words of encouragement taught us to never give up on our dreams in times of uncertainty or times we may fail.

Bryson KleIn is an Australian ninja warrior and international champion, who began his ambitious goals of climbing at 8 years old, whilst he was a novice speaker, he told everyone he was always nervous, whenever he was about to attempt anything worth doing. His mantra is that “Bravery is not the absence of fear, that's stupidity but Bravery is the ability to overcome your fears” . He showed us that it's normal to be afraid and nervous even someone as accolades as him, but it's all about how we attack challenges.

Lastly, 2 time Australian memory champion, international ballet and contemporary dancer and a participant of Australian survivor, Anastasia Woolmer spoke about her ability to preserve and put hard effort into all her endeavours. She showed a variety of memory techniques for students to help them remember content from their classes, along with any other important information we may need to remember.

Overall, international young leaders day was a success convention that helped shape our year 12 leaders and help them gain a better understanding of what it means to be a leader in and beyond school life.

Celebrating Success: Emma Cosmo (7H) Shines at the Camden Show!

We're delighted to congratulate Emma Cosmo from 7H for her fantastic achievements at the recent Camden Show. Emma's talent shone bright, earning her:

• 6 x 1st Place
• 3 x 2nd Place
• 10 x Highly Commended

Emma's beautiful artwork impressed judges and spectators alike. Join us in congratulating Emma on her well-deserved success! Her achievements serve as an inspiration and highlight the exceptional talent within our school community.

Here's a glimpse of her winning pieces below.

Celebrating Success: Year 7 Bronze Award Recipients!

Congratulations to our remarkable Year 7 students on their outstanding achievement of receiving Bronze Awards!

We are thrilled to recognise the dedication, hard work, and commitment demonstrated by each of these talented individuals. Your achievement reflects not only your academic excellence but also your perseverance and determination to excel in all areas of your education.

Receiving a Bronze Award is a testament to your continuous effort and enthusiasm for learning. Keep up the fantastic work, Year 7 students! Your journey of success has just begun, and we cannot wait to see the incredible achievements that lie ahead.

Congratulations to all Year 9 students on a fantastic term of academic excellence, remarkable sporting achievements, and inspiring community involvement. Your hard work and dedication have truly shone through and many have emulated our year theme of Activate, Elevate, Replicate by activating their curiosity, elevating their skills and understanding and replicating positive habits. As we approach the holiday break, I want to extend warm wishes to all families for a safe and joyous time together.

Looking ahead to the upcoming Year 9 camp to The Tops, I'm thrilled for the adventures and memories that await. This experience promises to be a fantastic opportunity for personal growth, team building, and forging lifelong friendships. Students will be encouraged to embrace the challenges, cherish the moments, and let this camp be a stepping stone towards even greater achievements in the year ahead.

I leave you with a few reflections from our Year 9 students in regards to the camp experience next week.

What are you most looking forward to experiencing or learning during our Year 9 camp?

‘Having fun with friends, cooperation’

‘I'm excited for anything. This is my first ever camp experience’

‘Exploring new ideas and activities’

‘Learning some skills and developing a stronger relationship with my peers’

‘Making new friends’

‘Learning new skills’

‘I am looking forward to the giant swing and hanging with my friends’

‘Having a good time with my friends and enjoying every activity’

‘I am most looking forward to doing all the different activities during camp’

‘With my mates and make memories with them’

‘The feeling of being free from school work and stress and just enjoying being with friends out somewhere’

‘I'm looking forward to learning how to work with a team well and have the experience’

What do you hope to achieve or gain from participating in the camp activities?

‘Stronger friendships, new friendships’

‘Hopefully a sense of self’

‘I hope to enjoy the camp activities and share the joy with friends and peers’

‘Be more social’

‘I hope to have fun’

‘I hope to achieve more skills from doing the camp activities and to bond with people’

‘Team building’

‘I hope to gain confidence around my peers and also face some challenging but fun experiences along the way’

‘I hope to gain knowledge and skills when participating in the activities’

‘New interests’

‘Having a go at everything and not being scared’

‘Better friendships’

‘More courage and stronger bonds with peers’

How do you plan to contribute positively to the camp experience and support your fellow peers during our time together?

‘I plan to contribute positively to camp by having a go at all the activities and encouraging others and my friends to do them as well’

‘Treat all peers, teachers, staff and people helping with camp with respect and stay positive during this time’

‘By supporting one another and providing motivation to my friends to participate in things they normally would not, to help them grow’

‘I plan to support my peers by helping them do stuff they will not be too confident in doing or are afraid of’

‘I will support them by cheering them on, and helping them when they need it’

‘By not excluding anyone and creating a friendly environment’

‘I plan to contribute positively to the camp by following the rules and expectations and supporting my peers positively’

‘Listen to the teacher's instructions and be respectful’

‘I plan to include everyone in group activities’

‘To always have fun, be positive and encourage my classmates’

‘I will do my best to make those in my cabin comfortable’

‘Listen to the teachers, camp people and be kind to my peers’

Thank you,

Miss Tahlia Cupillari 

Aaron Leopardi is a Year 10 student who has been actively performing on stage since 2018. He has two upcoming performances one with Camden Shorts on Friday 12 April and he will also be playing the role of the Artful Dodger with Holroyd Musical and Dramatic Society from Friday 21 June - Sunday 7 July. His previous notable roles included Oaken & The Bishop in Frozen Jnr 2023 (CTGI), Young Peter Allen in The Boy From Oz 2022 (CTGI), Prince Eric in The Little Mermaid Jnr 2022 (HMS) and Pugsley Addams in the Addams Family Musical 2022 (CTGI). 

Ticket details for both productions are below:

• Free Tickets to Camden Shorts (Friday 12 April 6:00-11:00pm): Camden Shorts tickets

• Oliver (Friday 21 June - Sunday 7 July) : Oliver tickets 

Show dates for Aaron are: 

• Friday 21 June 7:30-10:30pm

• Sunday 23 June 2:00-5:00pm

• Friday 28 June 7:30-10:30pm

• Saturday 29 June 2:00-5:00pm

• Saturday 29 June 7:30-10:30pm

• Friday 5 July 7:30-10:30pm

• Saturday 6 July 2:00-5:00pm

Mr Matthew Dowdell

Year 10 Coordinator

This term, Mrs Cordina’s Year 10 English class has been studying Harper Lee’s novel “To Kill A Mockingbird” as part of the Belonging Unit. The novel explores the harsh realities of prejudice and discrimination prevalent in the Deep South during the era of segregation. It also portrays the struggle of individuals who challenge societal norms and stand up for what is right, despite facing opposition and backlash.

Last week, students engaged in a role play of a pivotal scene in the novel; the trial of Tom Robinson and Mayella Ewell. The students worked together in various capacities to bring this scene to life, including the organisation of authentic props and costumes. The following students had lead roles in the play:

Atticus Finch - Lachlan Campbell

Tom Robinson - Blake Versteeg

Judge Taylor - Bronte Clark

Horace Gilmer - Ayden Kokcek

Mayella Ewell - Bridget Malone

Bob Ewell - Myah Liddell

Sheriff Heck Tate - Krystian Smutek 

Court Clerk - Juliet Merheb 

They delivered an outstanding performance, embodying their assigned characters with remarkable authenticity and skill, bringing the play to life with their talent and dedication. Their portrayal captivated the audience which included our College Principal Mr Cloran, Year 10 Coordinator Mr Dowdell, the English Leader of Learning Mrs Moraghan and some of their peers.

This class has demonstrated exceptional commitment and dedication to their English studies this term, consistently striving for excellence and actively engaging with the subject matter. Their unwavering enthusiasm has truly enriched their learning environment and set a commendable example for their peers. Well done Year 10!

Mrs Cordina

It is fantastic to introduce our Year 8 and Year 9 debating teams for the 2024 MISA Debating competition. These students have been representing our College eloquently, with pride, and determination. 

Year 8 MISA Debating Team

• Anna Maria Anish
• Emily Axiak 
• Mia Craig 
• Alyssa Devile 
• Chelsea Roughley 

Year 9 MISA Debating Team

• Laura Bray 
• Valentina Bugedo 
• Madeline Mazzocco 
• Taylor Young

In other debating news, it is a pleasure to update our College community on the progress of our Year 9 & 10 debating teams. Thus far, both of our teams have performed exceptionally well and are currently sitting at the top of the ladder in their respective competition zones. The adjudicators of these debates have consistently commented on the respectful manner of our students and their insightful arguments. Well done! 

Miss Wang 

SHINES 2024

Magdalene Shines returns in Term 2 - Thursday 20th June in the College Hall.

Magdalene Shines is a performing arts evening showcasing outstanding Elective Drama, Dance and Music students, our MISA Dance team and members of the wider school community. The performance opportunity extends to all students from Years 7- 12 who have successfully completed an audition process and have demonstrated high standards of preparedness and talent in an area of the performing arts. Audition forms have been emailed to all students and will close on Monday 08 April.

Should you have any questions please see Ms Cupilari - Dance, Ms Marino - Drama, Ms Curtis/Ms Slender - Music, Ms Taccone - Yr 12 Act.

MUSIC ENSEMBLES

Music Ensembles is a new Performing Arts initiative supported by the College in 2024. On Tuesday afternoons during sport time students from Years 7-12 who are already competent on an instrument or vocals are invited to attend the ensemble class to rehearse and prepare for College Events and Functions. This may include preparing musical items for a Mass, Assemblies, lunch concerts to preparing repertoire for significant events such as Shines 2024. 

Student comments:

Emilia Keramea - Year 9

‘I like coming to Music Ensemble because it gives me an extended amount of time to practise for upcoming events so that I am fully prepared to perform. I also enjoy talking and connecting with people who have the same interests as me. This helps me widen my range of music considering the genre and style of music and also helps me gain confidence when I sing a song that I am not used to.

Dylan Teuma - Year 9 

I’m both an elective music and music ensemble student. I have chosen Music Ensembles as I have a passion for playing music and the Magdalene Music Ensemble is a great opportunity to find new people to play with. Through this we are able to learn the songs played at school masses and assemblies as well as rehearse songs we will play at school events such as Shines and Magdalene impressions. I along with other students have been able to find and play with many other musicians and expand my musical library. Through this younger students will get an opportunity to become more involved with the school community. I feel the music ensemble is a fun way for musicians to find their band.

Tomasz Koryzma - Year 10 

‘I enjoy playing in the Music Ensembles as it allows for me to share my talent and express the hard work I put into music outside of school. Ensembles also enable me to become more involved within school extra curricular activities whilst also sharing my talent with others’.

Isla Attard - Yr 10 

‘Joining the Music Ensemble has given me an incredible opportunity to continue pursuing music, and expanding my vocal skill, in school despite not taking part in elective studies. The teachers, and students, are all extremely supportive, so I've had the chance to grow more comfortable performing in front of others and with a microphone.  I'm looking forward to having a song prepared to perform!’

Charlotte Cornett - Yr 11

‘Music Ensembles is an incredibly collaborative experience for everyone involved. We have the opportunity to find new people to work with and showcase our talents in rich musical environments such as assemblies, masses and the returning Magdalene Shines. Everyone in the ensemble is lovely, and a pleasure to work alongside every Tuesday afternoon (Even after a tiring day of classes). Although I am often sitting around working on my own music, the environment and talent I am surrounded by is visceral and palpable. I learn something new every Tuesday, THAT is what makes it enjoyable’.

Ms Cheryl Curtis

Leader of Learning - Performing Arts

Is your child missing any uniform items? We have a large amount of unlabelled lost property in the College Office!

Please remember to label all uniform items as all labelled items are returned to students directly.

Year 10 Careers Day

On Friday the 22nd March, 2024 Year 10 had their Careers Day, where they spent the day attending various workshops that focused on preparing for the world of work.

There were four main sessions, with the most popular one allowing students an opportunity to meet with Industry representatives. Students were also encouraged to look at their transferrable skills and were given advice on how to pitch themselves to future employers. 

I’d like to acknowledge and thank the P&F who helped fund the Pizza lunch students enjoyed on the day.

Coming up:

Female students in Years 10 and 11, interested in attending the EMPOWER her Trades  Event are encouraged to email Mrs Dallene Jones (jonesd02@dow.catholic.edu) to put in an Expression of Interest. 

WORK EXPERIENCE:

Work Experience provides hands-on learning in an authentic work environment to further classroom experience and incorporate the benefits of career education, transition planning, entrepreneurial and community learning and mentoring to provide a general introduction to the world of work. Students observe a variety of work, usually in a field of their choice and undertake supervised tasks appropriate to their knowledge and skill level.

Students at Magdalene are encouraged to undertake Work Experience in accordance with the Catholic School’s NSW Policies and Procedures.

Job Jump

Please contact Mrs Dallene Jones: jonesd02@dow.catholic.edu.au for further information.

Western Sydney University: 30 April to 3 May - Nursing and Midwifery Immersion Days

Get ready for an adventure of discovery, experience the thrill of exploring our undergraduate nursing and midwifery programs, and discover the entry pathways that await you. You'll immerse yourself in our cutting-edge Clinical Practice Units, engage in interactive activities, and embark on a guided tour of the campus.

Sessions will run on the following dates. Please note each session is capped at 40 students:

• Parramatta: Tuesday 30th April 2024
• Campbelltown: Wednesday 1st May 2024
• Hawkesbury: Thursday 2nd May 2024
• Liverpool: Friday 3rd May 2024

Secure your spot now by registering using the link: Register here.  Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to ignite your passion for nursing and midwifery! We can't wait to welcome you to a world of endless possibilities.

Western Sydney University 2024 webinar dates are now listed on the website

More information: Click here!

ALTERNATIVE PATHWAYS 

The College

The College is the official pathway provider into Western Sydney University for domestic and international students, offering courses in the form of Integrated Diploma/Bachelors, Extended Diplomas and University Foundation Studies.

The required Selection Rank for entry into our Diploma pathways have changed from 55 to 45, but still guarantees a place at Western Sydney University into the second year of a related degree after successful completion. The highly-qualified staff ensure that students graduate from The College with the necessary skills to take on a bachelor degree.

The College offers diploma to degree pathways in: 

• Arts 
• Building Design Management 
• Business 
• Communication 
• Construction Management 
• Culture, Society and Justice
• Design 
• Engineering 
• Health Science 
• Information and Communications Technology 
• Science 

For more information: Click here!