Dear parents, carers and students, 

This past Sunday, we celebrated Father’s Day. A time to acknowledge and honour the fathers and father figures who play a pivotal role in our lives. They are often the pillars of strength, offering guidance, support, and love. Fathers teach us important life lessons, instil values, and shape our character through their actions and words. Their influence is felt in the big moments and the small, everyday acts of kindness and care. On this day, we take a moment to express our gratitude for the sacrifices they make, the wisdom they share, and the unwavering support they provide. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the unique bond we share with our fathers, whether they are with us or remembered in our hearts. It’s a day to celebrate their contributions, express our love, and acknowledge the profound impact they have on our lives. On behalf of the entire College community, I wish all the fathers and father figures in our Magdalene family, a very Happy Father’s Day. 

As many of you would be aware, we celebrated Father’s Day with over 250 guests at our inaugural Magdalene Father’s Day Breakfast last Friday. Once joined by their children and staff at the College, we had an incredible gathering of over 600 people who were treated to our hospitality and moving testimonies from a number of our students. I thank the many staff who worked to pull this event together and of course, extend my gratitude and best wishes to the many fathers, grandfathers and father-figures who joined us on the morning. 

Earlier this week, we had almost 40 of our Year 11 students join us for the 2025 Senior SRC Leadership Day. This day represented one of the final steps in the selection of the 2025 SRC, including the appointments of our College Captains and Vice-Captains. As is the case each year, I was simply astounded by the quality of candidates who put themselves forward to represent the College and its student population in 2025. I have little doubt that any of the students who put their name forward, could undertake this responsibility with distinction, and am most excited to be able to announce the students who have been appointed to various positions and portfolios in the coming weeks. 

I also extend this congratulations to the many students from Years 7 to 10 who have put themselves forward for an SRC role in our junior year groups for 2025. Each one of these students have demonstrated strong leadership skills simply by completing the application process and again, I look forward to announcing these students in due course. I most certainly look forward to witnessing firsthand the impact that they will have on their respective cohorts throughout 2025. 

Finally, I take this opportunity to thank and acknowledge Mrs Ivana Forner who has held the position of Acting Principal in my absence in recent weeks as I recovered from surgery. I also thank Mr Bubb and Mr Houghton who both stepped up into the role of Acting Assistant Principal during my absence in addition to their regular senior roles at the College. 

Wishing you all the best for the weekend and week ahead, 

David Cloran

Principal

Last Tuesday, Ella Thompson and Andraya Leibrand of Year 12 represented Magdalene at the inaugural Diocesan ATSI Graduation Mass held at the Cathedral in Wollongong. The  students were accompanied by their parents, Mrs Forner and Mrs Bennett and joined other ATSI students from across the diocese in celebrating their graduation from high school with a mass with Bishop Brian. It was a wonderful occasion, starting with a traditional smoking ceremony and incorporating Indigenous languages and music throughout the mass. The mass was followed by the presentation of graduation certificates to the students, and an enjoyable lunch with traditional performances of song and dance for entertainment. Congratulations to all our Year 12 ATSI students graduating in 2024.

Ms Sarah Bennett

In our recent Pastoral Care classes, students have delved into the essentials of effective leadership through the completion of both theoretical and practical activities. While engaging in a series of dynamic team-building activities such as Team Jigsaw, Minefield, Leaning Tower of Feetza, and Silent Classroom, students have honed critical leadership qualities such as communication, trust, and collaboration.

Team Jigsaw challenged students to work together to complete a puzzle, promoting problem-solving and cooperative skills. Minefield required participants to guide each other through an obstacle course blindfolded, emphasising trust and clear instructions. In the Leaning Tower of Feetza, teams constructed a structure using the shoes off their feet, which enhanced strategic planning and resource management. Finally, the Silent Classroom activity encouraged non-verbal communication and creative problem-solving as students tackled tasks without speaking.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) leadership process is progressing smoothly. We eagerly anticipate hearing from the SRC candidates in Week 8 during our pastoral session, where they will share their vision and why they believe they are the best person for the position. The cohort will then cast their vote for the 2024-2025 Year 10 SRC. With a very strong field of candidates I wish them all the best.

In addition to leadership focus, we have been developing study habits amongst the cohort. Students worked through activities which concentrated on effective techniques for preparing for tests and exams, equipping students with strategies to enhance their academic performance and reduce stress. This will continue to be a focus as we progress through the semester.

On Thursday, September 5th, students began our round-robin House Cup soccer tournament. The competitive spirit was high as teams battled it out on the field, showcasing their athletic skills and teamwork. With the remaining round games still to be completed, we eagerly look forward to these games occurring in the coming weeks, where the teams will vie for the championship.

Our recent College assemblies have been a celebration of student achievements, with many awards presented. Special recognition goes to our Year 9 students, whose consistent hard work has been outstanding and were able to achieve Silver Principal Awards. A heartfelt congratulations to those who have received the prestigious Gold Principal Awards, which truly reflect their dedication and excellence. I also thank the parents and carers of the students who have received Gold Principal Awards for attending our College Assemblies. I know the students appreciate your ongoing support and for being present to celebrate their achievements.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the continued growth and success of our students as they develop their leadership skills and academic prowess.

Miss Tahlia Cupillari 

Year 9 Coordinator

With only a few weeks of face-to-face classes remaining, it is crucial for our Year 12 students to be present, punctual, and focused. Many courses still have content to cover, and there is great potential for improvement between now and the final exams if students remain committed. Recently, Year 12 has been focusing on exam techniques, practice papers, and revision to refine their skills. I spoke with the students last week about the importance of working together to maximise the cohort’s overall results. We ask for your support in encouraging this at home by stressing the importance of being in class and working hard until the very end.

Students have been receiving their trial results back, and there may be some disappointment. It is important that students take this feedback on board and communicate with their teachers about what they need in these final weeks. To support your child at home, you might:

• Create a quiet study space.
• Help plan a balanced study timetable.
• Encourage group study sessions.

We continue to offer support here at the College. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need guidance or have any concerns. Let’s work together to help our students finish their Year 12 journey strong!

Year 9 Science were given the rare opportunity to attend the Dr Jordan Nguyen Live Stream on Thursday, September 5th and explore the fascinating world of AI, evolving technology, and the human experience with a leading Australian innovator. Year 9 were enthralled with Jordan’s story of overcoming adversity after an accident in a backyard pool, and his initial struggle with trying to pair his interests and inspiration. 

Dr Jordan Nguyen is a leading Australian engineer, inventor and innovator, who is committed to improving as many lives as possible, as well as becoming a driving force behind both human and technological evolution as we move into the future.

An internationally renowned engineer for humanity, Jordan designs life-changing technologies to transform the lives of people with disabilities and the elderly through his role as founder of Psykinetic, a social business committed to bringing positive, sustainable and life-altering change. He also shares his adventures through documentaries across the world. Inspired by human endeavour, Jordan has big ambitions to see our world step consciously and creatively into a better future. 

In 2016 Dr Jordan Nguyen rose to prominence as he worked on his PhD when he helped Riley, a 13-year-old boy with cerebral palsy explore new levels of independence by inventing technology that uses eye movement to power technology and even drive a car. This adventurous exploration into the fusion of the human body and technology was featured in the ABC documentary “Becoming Superhuman”.

Mr Chris Ferry

Science Teacher

Assessment Schedules

The Mathematics Resource Centre (available through Compass, on the star dropdown menu) 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.

Additionally, students are encouraged to utilise the range of resources available in the Mathematics Resource Centre to supplement their learning in the classroom and further enhance their understanding of mathematical concepts.

Over upcoming weeks in Mathematics, students will be studying:

Year 7 - Angle Relationships

Year 8 - Perimeter and Area

Year 9 -  Area and Surface Area

Year 10 (5.1) - Single Variable Data Analysis

Year 10 (5.2) - Properties of Geometric Figures

Year 10 (5.3) - Properties of Geometric Figures

Year 11 Numeracy - Sport and Measurement

Year 11 Standard - Preliminary Exam Preparation

Year 11 Advanced - Preliminary Exam Preparation
Year 11 Extension 1 - Preliminary Exam Preparation

Year 12 Numeracy - Statistics and Probability

Year 12 Standard 2 - HSC Preparation

Year 12 Advanced - HSC Preparation

Year 12 Extension 1 - HSC Preparation

Year 12 Extension 2 - HSC Preparation

MATHS MARVEL: 

A Jiffy is an actual measure of time. For physicists, a jiffy is how long light takes to travel a distance of one femtometre, which is a millionth of a millionth of a millimetre.

https://www.sciencefocus.com/science/how-long-is-a-jiffy

MATHS MYSTERY - Course: Year 9 Mathematics

Families are encouraged to tackle this problem together. 

Sarah is planning to renovate her rectangular bedroom, which measures 5 metres long, 4 metres wide, and 3 metres high. She wants to paint the walls and ceiling and also replace the carpet on the floor. The room has one door that measures 2 metres high and 0.8 metres wide, and one window that measures 1.5 metres wide and 1 metre high.

• The cost of paint is $15 per square metre.
• The cost of the carpet is $30 per square metre.
• Sarah plans to paint all four walls and the ceiling, but she won't paint the door or the window.

Part A: Calculate the total surface area that Sarah needs to paint, taking into account the areas of the door and window, and determine the total cost of the paint.

Part B: Calculate the area of the floor to determine how much carpet she needs to buy, and then calculate the total cost of the carpet.

Part C: Finally, determine the total cost of the renovation, including both the paint and the carpet.

Students and Staff can enter their response to Part C here. 

The first 20 correct student entries will receive a merit.

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

Answer from the previous MATHS MYSTERY - 55 inches

Mrs Broady

Leader of Learning - Mathematics

As part of their study of Law, Society and Political Involvement, Year 9 Commerce attended an excursion to NSW Parliament and the Sydney Police and Justice Museum. At Parliament House, the students met Sally Quinnell, local Member for Camden. The students learnt about how the Legislative Assembly operates, and participated in a mock debate on a proposed law. 

At the Police and Justice Museum, the students learnt about the court structure and layout, viewed forensic evidence from historical crimes, and acted as the detectives in a crime that took ten years to solve. Finally the students participated in a mock criminal trial, giving them an excellent understanding of how courts work. 

Ms Ashleigh Fenech

Year 9 Drama have just completed their scene work on a play called, ‘Stories in the Dark’, by Debra Oswald. Year 10 Drama staged the play ‘Ruby Moon’, by Matt Cameron. They effectively worked to stage characters and stories in the space, and were successful in creating engaging performances that showcased their knowledge of manipulating theatrical devices to create dramatic meaning.

Year 12 Drama successfully completed their practical HSC examination for both Group Performance and Individual Performance on Monday the 26th August. The Individual Costume Design and Video Dramas were also submitted on this day. This class worked so diligently in the lead up to this submission, and the examination was an incredible showcase of their hard work. We are very proud of their efforts. 

We would like to also thank Year 9, Year 10 Drama and Drama Club who supported these students on the day of their exam as crew members, understudies and general audience members. Their presence and assistance ensured a smooth running of the external examination. 

Mrs Ashlee Marino

Creative Arts Leader of Learning

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the Carrington "Through Our Eyes" Project for this year. This meaningful initiative has allowed our students to connect with residents of the Carrington Aged Care Facility in Grasmere, forging intergenerational bonds that have left a lasting impact on both the students and the residents.

Throughout the year, students visited Carrington in small groups, engaging in thoughtful conversations and learning about the rich histories and life experiences of the residents. These visits culminated in the creation of heartfelt videos that recapped the life stories of each resident, which were presented during the final visit on September 3rd.

To celebrate the conclusion of the project, students and residents shared a special lunch together, reflecting on the time spent together and the friendships formed. The final presentations were a beautiful tribute to the connections made, highlighting the importance of listening to and learning from those who have come before us.

We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication to this project and grateful to the residents of Carrington for welcoming our students into their lives. We look forward to continuing this wonderful tradition in the years to come.

Miss Sarah Neasy

Youth Ministry Coordinator

We are proud to announce that Magdalene students have begun volunteering at the local Vinnies Camden Conference "Hub," located on Elizabeth Street, Camden. This initiative is a wonderful opportunity for our students to give back to the community by helping those in need.

Our students are actively involved in stocking and rotating inventory at the Centre, which is part of a broader effort to support the Camden/Oran Park Conference and the Vinnies Shop on Argyle Street. With the rapid population growth in the Camden LGA, the demand for services has significantly increased, making the contributions of our students and other volunteers more important than ever.

The Vinnies Camden Conference "Hub" provides vital welfare services, including emergency assistance to individuals and families struggling with the rising cost of living. The Centre also maintains a well-stocked pantry of food and household essentials to support those in need. Additionally, the Hub offers the Starfish Money Manager service, which provides financial guidance, and a range of other services for discrete support.

Our students’ efforts not only support the dedicated volunteers at Vinnies but also directly impact the lives of those who rely on these essential services. We are proud of their commitment to social justice and willingness to make a difference in our community.

If you know anyone who may benefit from these services, please consider directing them to the Vinnies Camden "Hub" on Elizabeth Street. Together, we can continue to support and uplift those in our community who need it most.

Miss Sarah Neasy

Youth Ministry Coodinator

This fortnight, we added another 23km to our cumulative total - this means that we've travelled from Saltwater to Langley Vale (as the crow flies), and have achieved a cumulative total of 333km so far.

Join us every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 7:55am for an 8:00am start at the top of the Back Oval steps for a 1km walk (course may change due to weather and other conditions). 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! See Mr Cimino for more details.

The uniform shop is now stocked with senior uniforms, and Year 9 students can now be fitted for their uniform. No appointment is required.

Uniform Shop Opening Times

Monday 7:30am - 3pm

Thursday 10:30am - 3:30pm

The Office of Renewal and Evangelisation is really excited to be running again the Compass: Catholic Family Camping Weekend on 13–15 September 2024 at Guntawang Catholic Youth Centre, Sheehys Creek Road, Oakdale (15 minutes from Picton).

The weekend is designed to unite families of every age, including couples with or without children, single parents with their children, and grandparents, all to celebrate the incredible gift of family life.

Mark your calendars now for a wonderful chance to bring families from all over the Diocese together in a laid-back setting to connect and enjoy shared meals, games, music, prayer, and Mass together. To avoid missing out on this incredible opportunity, contact us now to secure your spot (Register here)

The Respect Competition invites students in Years 4–9 across Australia to show what respect looks like in their world. The Australian Government Department of Social Services has launched the Stop it At the Start campaign. This community engagement initiative aims to prevent gender-based violence by influencing change in attitudes and behaviours that support or condone gender-based violence. It is a part of the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-32.

Entries close on 15 September 2024.

To learn more about the competition click here.

For further information on the National Plan click here.

NSW Health’s most recent Respiratory Surveillance Report advises that Whooping Cough (Pertussis) activity continues to increase in school-aged children.

What is Whooping Cough?

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacterium. It is characterised by severe coughing fits, which can make it difficult to breathe, and often ends with a "whooping" sound when the person breathes in.

Symptoms:

Initial symptoms resemble a common cold: runny nose, sneezing, mild fever, and mild cough.

The cough usually gets worse and severe bouts of uncontrollable coughing can develop. Coughing bouts can be followed by vomiting, choking or taking a big gasping breath which causes a "whooping" sound. The cough can last for many weeks and can be worse at night. 

How is it Spread?

Whooping cough is spread when an infectious person coughs bacteria into the air which can be inhaled by people nearby. 

Prevention:

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent whooping cough.  Good hygiene practices, such as covering the mouth when coughing and regular handwashing, help reduce the spread of the infection.

Treatment:

If whooping cough is detected early enough, a doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics. After 5 days of antibiotic treatment, enough bacteria are killed to stop the spread to others, although the cough can linger for weeks.

Without antibiotics, people with whooping cough can spread the infection in the first 3 weeks of the cough starting.  In some situations, other people who have been in contact with an infectious person may also need antibiotics to help prevent them from getting whooping cough, especially young children, people at high risk of health problems and those more likely to pass the infection to children.

School:

Children/staff members with a confirmed case of whooping cough should stay at home until they have completed at least 5 days of a prescribed antibiotic course. 

If close contacts being treated with antibiotics to prevent the spread of the disease are not displaying symptoms and have not tested positive for whooping cough they are permitted to attend school.