Weekly Reflection

A prayer for justice for refugees and asylum seekers

God of mercy, help me to remember:
My ancestors came across the seas!
Help me keep in my mind
Those who came long ago
And those who now come to our shores.

As I face you in prayer, God of Compassion,
I remember my country’s words:
Send them back or Stop the boats.
Then I fear, not your anger
But the steady gaze of boundless love
and unlimited compassion
That impel me to hear Jesus’ command:
Love one another, as I have loved you
Or Pope Francis’ call to open our hearts
To a universal communion
Which excludes nothing and no one.

Daring to step into such relationship, I pray
For those forced to leave family,
home and all they hold dear;
May they find safe passage and helping hands.

I pray for an end to the wars and oppression
that forced them to leave;
I pray that those who welcome them
are blessed in abundance.

And with deep humility
and a heart hungry for justice,
I pray that we Australians, citizens and leaders,
Open our eyes, our minds and our hearts
That we may see, understand and welcome
our brothers and sisters.

May our change of heart penetrate to our beginnings
As strangers in this land.
May we allow those we displaced
– the First People of this land – to welcome us.
Then knowing, in humility, what it is to be welcomed,
We will know how to welcome
the strangers who come to our shores.

This we ask in the name of Jesus your Son,
In whom we are no longer strangers. Amen.

From the Principal

Funding for Catholic Schools

The next week shapes up as a significant time for the Catholic school system in Australia as the Federal Government considers several issues that concern us.

Catholic schools’ concerns are focused on five key issues:

1.       Support for parent choice

At the moment, the government’s policy expects Catholic schools to charge fees at a level that will make them unviable, in many parts of Australia. If the Government truly supports parental choice, what is it doing to make sure that Catholic primary school parents don’t face fees that will double over the next decade?

2.       Calculation of SES

School SES scores – the key measure of ‘need’ in the funding model for Catholic and independent schools – are structurally biased against Catholic education. It is recognised that National Schools Resourcing Board is currently examining the SES scoring methodology with the expectation that a new, fairer measure will be recommended. However, Catholic education has many concerns with the review process up until this point. Will changes to the SES scoring methodology ensure that the calculation is fair for all families and for all schools?

3.       System funding

In the future, there will be greater regulation of funding allocations by Catholic school systems – will Catholic school systems still have the autonomy to distribute funds according to school needs, or will the Government mandate how funding must be spent in each school?

4.       Transition arrangements

As it currently stands, Catholic schools that are assessed to be ‘over-funded’ will transition to lower funding within 6 years, while independent schools in the same category will have 10 years to transition. Will all schools be treated fairly and equally over the transition period of the new funding model, irrespective of whether they are part of a school system?

5.       Indexation

The current indexation rate proposed does not directly incorporate educationally specific measures. With ever-increasing year-on-year educational costs will Government funding for Catholic schools be indexed with a measure that reflects the real costs of education?

Ultimately, the genuine concern of Catholic school educators is that the Federal Government’s education policies threaten our mission to provide affordable, accessible, faith-based schooling.

I will keep parents informed of our progress in this political debate about our future funding.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Mid -Year Exams

We wish our Year 9, 10 and Year 11 VCE students well with their exams that conclude this week. A reminder that Year 10 and 11 VCE students only have to attend school for their exam, therefore no classes will operate. There will be supervised study rooms available for students to use.

Year 11 students will start Unit 2 studies in the last week of term and Semester Two electives for Years 9 & 10 will begin in Term 3.  Year 7 & 8 Art/Technology rotations will also occur at the start of Term 3. All students at Years 7 – 10 will be given a new timetable at the start of Term 3 which they can access via SIMON from 14th July.

Work Experience

We wish all our Year 10's the best on work experience next week. This experience is always valuable as it either reinforces that the pathway is the correct one for that student or tells them that maybe it is not their best option. Regardless, it assists when our Year 10 students choose their 2019 VCE / VCAL Pathways and subjects next term.

Last Day of Term 2 and Buses

Our College will finish classes at 2:30pm on Friday 29th June.

Please note the following information regarding bus service pick-ups. 

Melton Town services will run at their regular time as they are not tied to school finish times.  Students who normally catch the two SITA Buses may wait until their normal scheduled pickup time of 3:30pm or make other arrangements, such as catching other town buses to get home.

All Bacchus Marsh Coaches services will pick students up at approx. 2:40pm except for the Toolern Vale service which will pick students up at the regular time as it needs to meet other services at the Melton Interchange.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

Year 11 students are now able to investigate Unit 2 subject changes requests for Semester 2. Subject changes must first go to Mrs Dickson, our Careers Coordinator. Once a pathway plan has been approved, students can complete a change of subject form. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson. All changes must be applied for and processed by 28th June.

Staff PL Day

The College will be running a Professional Learning day on Monday, 25th June. This is a student free day.  Staff will be involved with training as part of the College Resilience Project.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Resilience Project – Parent workshop

Seats are still available for the The Resilience Project parent evening on 25th June at 7:00pm and is open to all year levels. Click on the link below to book your tickets.

As stated in last weeks newsletter, The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs to schools, providing evidence-based, practical strategies to build resilience and happiness and delivered programs to over 500 schools around the country.

The Resilience Project seeks to help all Australians become mentally healthy through the values of Gratitude, Empathy, Emotional Literacy and Mindfulness. The presenter Martin Heppell is most engaging and informative. I had the opportunity to hear Martin speak to an audience of 17-18 year olds last year and was most impressed with his ability to engage them with his messages. 

The parent workshop will deliver a presentation that provides practical strategies to help you build their son/daughters resilience. 

Find out more information on their website https://theresilienceproject.com.au/schools/ and about Martin https://theresilienceproject.com.au/about-us/

Visit https://www.trybooking.com/WIPF to book tickets.

The Greatest Showcase

The cast of eighty students are working hard in preparation for their Showcase performance at the start of term three (26th and 27th July). Charismatic teacher Mr C and his diligent students travel through the history of the performing arts in Catholic Regional College's 2018 Showcase. We travel from Greek Theatre to Casablanca to Flashdance to Beyonce and even to this year's hit- the Greatest Showman; hence our title 'The Greatest Showcase'. Sit back and relax as our talented students sing, dance and act their way through history. 

Adult tickets $15, student tickets $10. Tickets available only at https://www.trybooking.com/WDXX.

Ignite Catholic Youth Conference

Parent Meeting: Ignite Catholic Youth Conference, September 2018

Parents and students wishing to attend Ignite in the September school holidays are invited to an information meeting:

Thursday, 21st June

7:00pm – 7:45pm

In the Front Office of the School (no longer in the Library)

Please RSVP if you are coming to sanastasia@crcmelton.com.au or call the school on 8099-6000

Ignite Catholic Youth Conference is for young people from all over Australia.

27th September – 1st October, 2018

If you are interested in having your child attend, please contact Sr Anastasia at sanastasia@crcmelton.com.au or call the school on 8099-6000.

More information is available at https://igniteyouth.com/conference18/

St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleep Out and Appeal 2018

Winter sleep out and appeal 2018

Did you know that there are approximately 300 people that are homeless on any given night in Melton?

“Are you ready to step up?”

On Friday 10th August we are hosting our very own Winter Sleep Out at school. Our aim for the night is to raise awareness and some vital funds to help those experiencing homelessness in and around our community. A school sleep out also gives students the opportunity to understand the realities of homelessness by sleeping “rough” for one night.

During the night we will hear from some guest speakers, discuss the issues around homelessness and share a small meal together before setting up our “bed” for the night in the hall.  Several staff will be in attendance and appropriate security measures will be put in place to ensure that our night is a success.

Participants in the event are asked to raise between $75 –$100.00 through sponsorship. The money raised will be passed onto St. Vincent De Paul and Hope St. Melton who provide many valuable services for the homeless in Melton and the surrounding areas.

Students wishing to take part are able to obtain the necessary forms from the student office. They should be returned as soon as possible to the office or to Ms. Rowe-Watts. If you have any concerns please email me at mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au

Winter coats and blankets are urgently needed.

Each year Vinnie’s feeds and houses thousands of families doing it tough through winter. They urgently need good quality winter clothing particularly Coats, blankets, sleeping bags, hats, gloves and scarves.

We will make sure these get given out to those that need them.

Volleyschool

Western Region Volleyball - CRC Melton Volleyschool

Western Region Volleyball is very pleased to bring our Volleyschool program to CRC Melton.

WRV Volleyschool coaches are highly qualified and experienced in delivering a top quality volleyball program in a fun and educational environment.

The Volleyschool program will commence in Term 3 on Tuesday 17th July and run for 10 weeks.

All Volleyschool sessions will be held on Tuesdays after school.

Venue: CRC Melton gym

Time: 3:45 to 5:15 pm

Cost to participants:

The term costs $110 (10 trainings)

Introductory “training only” sessions: 5 sessions for $60 (One time only bundle).

Single session is $15. Payment must be made in advance or on the day.

To Join Volleyschool:

To join the Volleyschool program, please complete and return the following form by Tuesday, 19 June.

The form can be scanned and emailed to Western Region Volleyball directly -

admin@westernregionvolleyball.com.au

The form can also be given to Mr Hill before Tuesday, 19th June.

Payment

Payment by cash or electronic transfer is preferred.

Account name: “Western Region Volleyball”

Account details: BSB 633-000          Account Number: 135065621   

Reference: Your “Full Name” & “CRC Volleyschool” e.g. “Ben Brown, CRC Volleyschool”

Michael Hill

Volleyball Coach

WRVCRC MELTON Volleyschool Costs.pdf

Melton BreastScreen Clinic

This notification is to raise awareness about the importance of booking in a breast screen every two years for women aged 50-74. This is a vital message to share as 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and early detection can help to save lives. A breast screen could save their life. 

What

A breast screen every 2 years is the best way to find breast cancer early when treatment is likely to be most successful. BreastScreen Victoria has a clinic located in Melton.  Appointments are free, take 10 minutes and are with a woman.

Where

Location of your closest BreastScreen clinic:

103 Unitt Street, Melton 3337

When

The Melton breast screen clinic currently has plenty of available appointments. Women can call 13 20 50 or book online TODAY at breastscreen.org.au

Why

·         1 in 8 women in Victorian will develop breast cancer in their lifetime

·         Most women with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease

·         75% of breast cancers occur in women aged 50 and over

·         Early detection of breast cancer offers a better chance of successful treatment and recovery

·         A breast screen is free, takes 10 minutes and is with a female radiographer – no GP referral/Medicare Card required.

Rachel Bottomley

BreastScreen Victoria

BSV_Clinic_eflyer MELTON.pdf

Teenage Holiday Program

The Teenage Holiday Program will be running from 2nd July til 14th July. Customer Service Bookings open Wednesday 20th June at 10:30am. Don’t delay the bookings as spots get filled up fast and may result that you will be put on the waiting list.

See attached flyer for more information.

Melton City Council

THP FLYER,PERMISSION FORM & LETTER.pdf

Artists Collective of Melton Inc. - Holiday Workshop Program

Artists’ Collective of Melton Inc. will be holding a number of workshops over the winter holidays for children and teens of Melton and Caroline Springs area including those with disabilities, autism and those coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. Cost is gold coin donation towards the ACM Inc.

Please see attached flyer for more information.

Sandra

Melton Artists

winter workshops 2018.pdf

Weekly Reflection

From the rising of the winter sun to it’s setting ,
Scatter the darkness with the light of your love, O Shining One.
Make me short on mean thoughts, long on offers of words of comfort.
Make me short on being driven, long on paying attention.
Make me short on focusing only on myself, long on looking beyond.
Make me short of obsessive lists, long on spontaneous acts of kindness,
Make me short on mindless activity, long on time to reflect.
Make me short on tradition as a habit, long on rediscovery and re-owning.
Make me short on rushing and tiring, long on walking and wondering.
Make me short on false, festive jollity, long on stilling and rooted joy.
Make me short on guilt, long on being merciful to myself.
Make me short on being overwhelmed, long on peacableness as I set forth this day.

(From The Celtic Wheel of the Year by Tess Ward)

From the Principal

I was reminded of Matthew's Gospel (Chapter 5:13-16) recently when I received, on behalf of the College, a salt lamp from CRC St Albans to commemorate their 40th Anniversary. This lamp sits at Principal Reception alongside a statue of Jesus and the marginalised, a gift from Fr. Michael. There is no better way for us as a Catholic school to be 'salt of the earth, light of the world’ than to respond to the needs of those people without a home to go to, without a dinner to be shared, or a warm bed to sleep in.

Can I encourage all members of our school community to support the Annual St Vinnies Winter Appeal which is happening in Parishes now, and also our Annual Sleep Out which will be held in early August.

VCAL

A Year 11 Work Related Skills VCAL class spent last Thursday applying their learning in context. Some staff members from Bunnings and Taubman’s taught them the skills of preparing and painting a room.

Room G141 was a great size for all the students to be able to show their ‘hands-on,’ and employability skills. The students reported that they enjoyed the day and would like to continue this type of learning.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

All requests for Year 9 and 10 Elective changes have now closed.

Year 11 students will be able to investigate Unit 2 subject changes from Tuesday, 12th June. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson, Pathways Coordinator. Once a pathway plan has been approved, students can complete a 'Change of Subject' form. All changes must be applied for and processed by Thursday, 28th June.

Mid Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

The College has set out a formal assessment schedule that will operate across Years 7 – 11. Below is a reminder of the first of these. Year 9 – 11 Exams begin on Thursday, 14th  June.

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake assessment tasks beginning Tuesday, 14th June.  Elective assessments (TATs) will take place in normal scheduled class times.  Exams in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre on the following dates.

Year 10 & 11 Exams

Year 10 & 11 students will undertake exams from Thursday, 14th June to Friday, 22nd June. 

• All Year 10 & 11 exams will take place in the Padua exam centre
• Students are only required at school when they have exams
• Supervised study rooms will operate for students who need or wish to be at school during non-exam periods
• Students will be expected to wear full college uniform when present for exams
• Students need to be at the College at least 15 minutes before the published starting times to ensure smooth entry into the exam venues
• Friday, 22nd June is allocated as a catch up day for any students who need to complete a missed exam or not completed subject outcome

Years 11 & 12 - VCAA General Achievement Task (GAT)

All Year 12 VCE Students and any Year 11 students undertaking a Unit 3/4 study must sit the GAT on Wednesday, 13th June as below:

 Year 10 Vincit and Year 11 & 12 VCAL students will follow their normal programs during the exam period.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Resilience Project – Parent workshop

The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs to schools, providing evidence-based, practical strategies to build resilience and happiness. The Resilience Project has delivered programs to over 500 schools around the country, through presentations, wellbeing journals, school curriculum, teacher diaries and the TRP app. The Resilience Project seeks to help all Australians become mentally healthy through the values of Gratitude, Empathy, Emotional Literacy and Mindfulness.

Recently all students were invited to complete the Resilient Youth Survey as part of our commitment and engagement of the Resilience Project team this year. The results will be presented to the staff later this term. As part of our involvement the team will present student workshops early next term and a parent workshop on 25th June.

The parent workshop will deliver a presentation that provides practical strategies to help you build their son/daughters resilience. An invitation will be sent out this week through CareMonkey. The 1 ½ hour workshop begins at 7:00pm and will be presented in the Performing Arts Centre.

Find out more information on their website https://theresilienceproject.com.au/schools/ and the science and research that sits behind the four principles that they teach in their programs https://theresilienceproject.com.au/resources-references/.

Visit https://www.trybooking.com/WIPF to book tickets.

Speech Box Strategy

This Speech Box Strategy outlines the RIDER strategy that is used to help students retain information.  RIDER stands for read, imagine, describe, evaluate and repeat.  By following this technique, students should have opportunity to gain a better understanding of what they are reading and increase their probability of retaining the information.

Narelle Layton

Curriculum Coordinator

speech box 2-retaining information.pdf

The Greatest Showcase

The cast of eighty students are working hard in preparation for their Showcase performance at the start of term three (26th and 27th July). Charismatic teacher Mr C and his diligent students travel through the history of the performing arts in Catholic Regional College's 2018 Showcase. We travel from Greek Theatre to Casablanca to Flashdance to Beyonce and even to this year's hit- the Greatest Showman; hence our title 'The Greatest Showcase'. Sit back and relax as our talented students sing, dance and act their way through history. 

Adult tickets $15, student tickets $10. Tickets available only at https://www.trybooking.com/WDXX.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleep Out and Appeal 2018

Winter sleep out and appeal 2018

Did you know that there are approximately 300 people that are homeless on any given night in Melton?

“Are you ready to step up?”

On Friday 10th August we are hosting our very own Winter Sleep Out at school. Our aim for the night is to raise awareness and some vital funds to help those experiencing homelessness in and around our community. A school sleep out also gives students the opportunity to understand the realities of homelessness by sleeping “rough” for one night.

During the night we will hear from some guest speakers, discuss the issues around homelessness and share a small meal together before setting up our “bed” for the night in the hall.  Several staff will be in attendance and appropriate security measures will be put in place to ensure that our night is a success.

Participants in the event are asked to raise between $75 –$100.00 through sponsorship. The money raised will be passed onto St. Vincent De Paul and Hope St. Melton who provide many valuable services for the homeless in Melton and the surrounding areas.

Students wishing to take part are able to obtain the necessary forms from the student office. They should be returned as soon as possible to the office or to Ms. Rowe-Watts. If you have any concerns please email me at mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au

Winter coats and blankets are urgently needed.

Each year Vinnie’s feeds and houses thousands of families doing it tough through winter. They urgently need good quality winter clothing particularly Coats, blankets, sleeping bags, hats, gloves and scarves.

We will make sure these get given out to those that need them.

Ignite Catholic Youth Conference

The College is planning to take a small group of Year 10 - 12 students to the Ignite Catholic Youth Conference, for young people from all over Australia during 27th September – 1st October 2018 (middle of the September school holidays).

More information is available at https://igniteyouth.com/conference18/.

If you are interested in your child attending, please email me at sanastasia@crcmelton.com.au or contact the College office on 8099 6000.

An Information Evening will be held in the College Library on Thursday 21st June at 7:00pm.

Kinship and Foster Care Education

Carer KaFE is running a training session specifically designed for Carers & Foster Carers.

During this session you will:

• understand the inner working model of those who have experienced abuse and broken attachments that lead to challenging behaviours
• recognise how to gauge the emotional maturity of a child or young person
• learn how to assess when a child is switched on to what you have to say
• appreciate the impact of stress on the ability to make good choices

Click on the attachment for more information, or visit https://www.fcav.org.au/news/training.

FootscrayJun18_ACTGroupThinkingMindReptilianBrain.pdf

Teenage Holiday Program

The Teenage Holiday Program will be running from 2nd July til 14th July. Customer Service Bookings open Wednesday 20th June at 10:30am. Don’t delay the bookings as spots get filled up fast and may result that you will be put on the waiting list.

See attached flyer for more information.

Melton City Council

THP FLYER,PERMISSION FORM & LETTER.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Corpus Christi Prayer

Let us pray
for the willingness to make present in our world the love of Christ shown to us in the Eucharist, Lord Jesus Christ,
we worship you living among us in the sacrament of your body and blood.
May we offer to our Father in heaven a solemn pledge of undivided love.
May we offer to our brothers and sisters a life poured out in loving service of that kingdom where you live with the Father and the Holy Spirit one God for ever and ever.

Amen.

From the Principal

Federation Mass

Last Friday Bishop Mark Edwards led the celebration of the Mass for the 40th Anniversary of CRC St Albans.

St Albans was the first of the CRC Campuses, being established in 1978.

Some 450 staff from North Keilor, Sydenham, Melton and Caroline Springs attended the Mass.

Special guests in attendance included Fr John O’Rielly, Mrs Bev Kennedy, Father Fabian, former Principals Paul Daffey, Sister Sylvia Williams, Brian O’Loughlin and Bernard Dobson.

Stations of the Cross

On Monday, our artists in residence installed the new images of the Stations of the Cross which enhances our Catholic identity on Bulmans Road. Along with the Stations of the Cross at the front, the side panels represent The Road to Calvary and the cleansing properties of holy water.

Chris Sage and Regina Byrne worked in their studio at Malmsbury to design the 15 Stations and the two side panels that were then laser cut and powder coated. The installation will be a valuable learning resource during Religious Education classes.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Resilience Project – Parent workshop

The Resilience Project delivers emotionally engaging programs to schools, providing evidence-based, practical strategies to build resilience and happiness. The Resilience Project has delivered programs to over 500 schools around the country, through presentations, wellbeing journals, school curriculum, teacher diaries and the TRP app. The Resilience Project seeks to help all Australians become mentally healthy through the values of Gratitude, Empathy, Emotional Literacy and Mindfulness.

Recently all students were invited to complete the Resilient Youth Survey as part of our commitment and engagement of the Resilience Project team this year. The results will be presented to the staff later this term. As part of our involvement the team will present student workshops early next term and a parent workshop on 25th June.

The parent workshop will deliver a presentation that provides practical strategies to help you build their son/daughters resilience. An invitation will be sent out this week through CareMonkey. The 1 ½ hour workshop begins at 7:00pm and will be presented in the Performing Arts Centre.

Find out more information on their website https://theresilienceproject.com.au/schools/ and the science and research that sits behind the four principles that they teach in their programs https://theresilienceproject.com.au/resources-references/.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

All Year 9 and 10 students will receive copies of their Semester 2 electives this week. After reviewing with parents, request for changes to Semester 2 electives must be emailed directly to myself at jchristie@crcmelton.com.au between Monday, 28th May and Friday, 8th June. In the email, students need to nominate the electives they wish to change from and change to, along with a reason. I will then email students times to follow up on requests. Note that all changes are subject to blocking clashes, class sizes and selection requirements.

Year 11 students will be able to investigate Unit 2 subject changes from Tuesday, 12th June. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson, Pathways Coordinator. Once a pathway plan has been approved, students can complete a 'Change of Subject' form. All changes must be applied for and processed by Thursday, 28th June.

VCE Unit 3 / Year 12 VCAL Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

A Parent-Student-Teacher Interview evening will be held on Thursday, 7th June between 4.00pm to 7.00pm for VCE Unit 3 & Year 12 VCAL students. These Interviews will be booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM)which will open on Thursday, 31st May.  Normal classes will operate during the day.

It is expected that students attend interviews with their parents/guardians.

Mid Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

Last week we published the College’s formal assessment schedule that will operate across Years 7 – 11. Below is a reminder of the first of these. Year 9 – 11 Exams begin on Thursday, 14th  June.

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake assessment tasks beginning Tuesday, 14th June.  Elective assessments (TATs) will take place in normally scheduled class times.  Exams in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre on the following dates.

Year 10 & 11 Exams

Year 11 students will undertake VCE Unit 1 exams from Thursday, 14th June to Friday, 22nd June. Year 10 students will also have exams during this time.

• All Year 10 & 11 exams will take place in our Padua exam centre
• Students are only required at school when they have exams
• Supervised study rooms will operate for students who need or wish to be at school during non-exam periods
• Students will be expected to wear full college uniform when present for exams
• Students need to be at the College at least 15 minutes before the published starting times to ensure smooth entry into the exam venues
• Friday, 22nd June is allocated as a catch up day for any students who need to complete a missed exam or not completed subject outcome

Years 11 & 12 - VCAA General Achievement Task (GAT)

All Year 12 VCE Students and any Year 11 students undertaking a Unit 3/4 study must sit the GAT on Wednesday, 13th June as below:

Year 10 VINCIT and Year 11 & 12 VCAL students will follow their normal programs during the exam period.

Queens Birthday

Monday, 11th June is the Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday.

VCE Semester 2

Unit 2 and Unit 4 Studies begin on Monday, 18th June.

Reconciliation Week

LOTE News

On Thursday 31st of May Year 9-12 Italian students attended the Dante Alighieri Poetry Competition at Melbourne University.

Each student chose and learnt a poem off by heart, reciting it in front of an examiner on the day. The lucky Year 12 students had the privilege of meeting John Lando, the author of their poem ‘Purificazione’ following their recitation. He was both flattered and proud to not only meet dedicated Year 12 students, but ones who had chosen his poem to recite.

Following the visit to Melbourne University, students explored ‘Little Italy’ and the treasures of Lygon Street, attending the Italian Immigration Museum at CO.AS.IT and taking in the many cultural aspects of the Italian heritage in Lygon Street. Students enjoyed emerging themselves in a traditional Italian lunch of their choice to top off the amazing experience and as a well-earned reward.

A big thank you to Mrs. Russo for organising a wonderful excursion, and to Mrs. Alfonsi and Ms. Crocitti for all their support. We look forward to receiving the results of the competition that will be announced early term 3. Congratulations to all students that participated.

Ignite Catholic Youth Conference

The College is planning to take a small group of Year 10 - 12 students to the Ignite Catholic Youth Conference, for young people from all over Australia during 27th September – 1st October 2018 (middle of the September school holidays).

More information is available at https://igniteyouth.com/conference18/.

If you are interested in your child attending, please email me at sanastasia@crcmelton.com.au or contact the College office on 8099 6000.

An Information Evening will be held in the College Library on Thursday 21st June at 7:00pm.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleep Out and Appeal 2018

Winter sleep out and appeal 2018

Did you know that there are approximately 300 people that are homeless on any given night in Melton?

“Are you ready to step up?”

On Friday 10th August we are hosting our very own Winter Sleep Out at school. Our aim for the night is to raise awareness and some vital funds to help those experiencing homelessness in and around our community. A school sleep out also gives students the opportunity to understand the realities of homelessness by sleeping “rough” for one night.

During the night we will hear from some guest speakers, discuss the issues around homelessness and share a small meal together before setting up our “bed” for the night in the hall.  Several staff will be in attendance and appropriate security measures will be put in place to ensure that our night is a success.

Participants in the event are asked to raise between $75 –$100.00 through sponsorship. The money raised will be passed onto St. Vincent De Paul and Hope St. Melton who provide many valuable services for the homeless in Melton and the surrounding areas.

Students wishing to take part are able to obtain the necessary forms from the student office. They should be returned as soon as possible to the office or to Ms. Rowe-Watts. If you have any concerns please email me at mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au

Winter coats and blankets are urgently needed.

Each year Vinnie’s feeds and houses thousands of families doing it tough through winter. They urgently need good quality winter clothing particularly Coats, blankets, sleeping bags, hats, gloves and scarves.

We will make sure these get given out to those that need them.

Weekly Reflection

You are Our Father, you live in heaven We talk to you, Father you are good. We believe your Word Father We your children, give us bread today. We have done wrong, we are sorry Help us Father not to sin again. Others have done wrong to us And we are sorry for them, Father today Stop us from doing wrong, Father Save us all from the evil one.
You are Our Father, you live in heaven We talk to you, Father you are good.
(The Lord’s Prayer from the “Missa Kimberley”)

From the Principal

CRC Federation Mass Day

Families are asked to note on their calendars that this Friday, 1st June is the CRC Federation Mass day where staff from all five Catholic Regional Colleges come together for Mass.  

The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Mark Edwards at St Albans and it is a special year as it's 40 years since the establishment of CRC St Albans. 

The morning will be used for our staff to participate in Camps and Excursion Procedures, First Aid Training and Welfare meetings. Please note the College Office will be closed on Friday afternoon from 12:30pm.

Great News from Brother Beausang School

Brian Nzuki, Dux of Br. Beausang in 2016 has been awarded a scholarship to Harvard University. In the words of Principal Peter Shanahan, "Brian is a Champion!"

Brian started at Br. Beausang in what is called Baby Class when he was 3. This was down at the old Primary School in a tiny room next to the Head of Primary School's office. Mothers who were struggling to cope had some connection with the school (e.g. were helpers or readers to the children) were able to leave their babies and todlers for much of the school day. Brian did all his schooling at Br. Beausang - Baby, Secondary, 15 years.

Brian lives a few hundred metres from the school in downtown Embulbul. His father is a tailor and his mum sells vegetables in a small stall on the side of the road. 

Brian was the top student in the KCPE exams (end of Primary) which he completed under great stress, as there were some major family challenges at that time. His score was good but not outstanding, but he really shone in Secondary and maintained an A average all the way through including the KCSE final exams (end of Secondary). He was the top student in KCC and hence DUX of the School in 2016.

Parents & Friends Meeting

The next Parents & Friends Meeting will be held on Wednesday 30th May at 7:00pm. All welcome.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

13 Reasons Why

When Season 1 of '13 Reasons Why' was released there was significant demand on the mental health sector, and concerns from schools and families across Australia about the show’s content. The Netflix program directly exposes viewers to very risky suicide content that may lead to distressing reactions. National and international research clearly links the impact of harmful suicide exposure to increased risk and possible suicide contagion.

In preparation for Season 2, Headspace and Netflix have collaborated to develop resources and discussion guides for young people, parents and schools to assist them to have safe conversations about the confronting themes associated with suicide depicted in the series. Headspace seeks to ensure that Australian viewers of the show, many of whom are members of school communities, have access to resources that will assist them to be safe and informed. The resources provide information on how to safely watch the series, self-care, help-seeking.

For further support, refer to the information on the headspace website https://headspace.org.au/news/the-launch-of-13-reasons-why-season-2/ or contact your child’s Level Coordinator, our counsellors or psychologists.

Advice for supporting adults, children or young people who are vulnerable or have expressed concerns about their own mental health is available from:

Lifeline 13 11 14

Suicide Call Back Service (24/7) 1300 659 467

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800

eheadspace 1800 650 890.

Resilience Project – Parent Workshop

Recently all students were invited to complete the Resilient Youth Survey as part of our commitment and engagement of the Resilience Project Team this year. The results will be presented to staff later this term. As part of our involvement the team will present student workshops early next term and a parent workshop on June 25.

The workshop will deliver a presentation that provides practical strategies to help parents build their sons/daughters resilience. You will be invited to attend through CareMonkey in the coming weeks.

Find our more information on their website https://theresilienceproject.com.au/schools/.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Emergency Response Drill

As part of our Emergency Response process, this Thursday afternoon we will undertake a Non-Discrete Lockdown drill. During this time, no student will be able to leave the College grounds nor visitors enter. The importance of these drills cannot be over emphasised.

First Aid Policy

A reminder that the College Policy strongly recommends Family Ambulance cover as in many situations, an Ambulance will be called as part of our First Aid Response protocol.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

All Year 9 and 10 students will receive copies of their Semester 2 electives this week. After reviewing with parents, request for changes to Semester 2 electives must be emailed directly to myself at jchristie@crcmelton.com.au between Monday, 28th May and Friday, 8th June. In the email, students need to nominate the electives they wish to change from and change to, along with a reason. I will then email students times to follow up on requests. Note that all changes are subject to blocking clashes, class sizes and selection requirements.

Year 11 students will be able to investigate Unit 2 subject changes from Tuesday, 12th June. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson, Pathways Coordinator. Once a pathway plan has been approved, students can complete a 'Change of Subject' form. All changes must be applied for and processed by Thursday, 28th June.

VCE Unit 3 / Year 12 VCAL Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

A Parent-Student-Teacher Interview evening will be held on Thursday, 7th June between 4.00pm to 7.00pm for VCE Unit 3 & Year 12 VCAL students. These Interviews will be booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM)which will open on Thursday, 31st May.  Normal classes will operate during the day.

It is expected that students attend interviews with their parents/guardians.

Mid Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

Last week we published the College’s formal assessment schedule that will operate across Years 7 – 11. Below is a reminder of the first of these. Year 9 – 11 Exams begin on Thursday, 14th  June.

Years 7 & 8

Apart from Timed Assessment Tasks that will operate in normal class time, all Year 7 & 8 students will do a Timed Assessment Task in Mathematics and English blocks at the same time.  These assessment tasks will take place in their Homeroom Groups in their normal scheduled class. See below.

General Achievement Test (GAT)

Any student undertaking a Unit 3/4 subject will be required to sit the General Achievement Test (GAT) on Wednesday 13th June from 10:00am – 1:15pm. The GAT will be held in the Padua Building and students are to wear full Winter uniform on this day.

All students are required to stay in the examination room until the completion of the GAT at 1:15pm, even if they finish early.

Students need to be at school no later than 9:15am and are to assemble in the rooms in the Sienna building prior to the exam. There will be no access to Year 12 lockers as this building will house the exam, but students can leave their bags in one of the classrooms in Sienna as the room will be locked.

No Unit 3/4 classes will be scheduled on this day. Year 11 students are permitted to go home following completion of the GAT. Buses will be running as per normal.

Approved materials for the GAT include:

• Dictionary (but minus a thesaurus)
• Pencils (for multiple choice questions) – 2B or HB
• Pens (blue and/or black)
• Water bottle (label removed and no larger than 1500ml)

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this, please contact me at the College or via email at clock@crcmelton.com.au.

2018 Ancient China Expo – Year 7 Humanities

Unit 1-2 Legal Studies - Barwon Prison Excursion

Jewish Holocaust Centre Excursion

On Thursday 17th of May, the Year 8 IS MASP group went to the Jewish Holocaust Centre.

The day was divided up into three parts; an educational talk with the centre educator Lisa about the impact of the Holocaust, a guided tour of the museum, and our day concluded with a special talk from Holocaust survivor Vivienne. We discussed how the Jewish were treated, and how important it is to not distinguish people into groups because of their Race or Religion.

We were honoured when the day ended with an opportunity to talk to Vivienne, since we will be the last generation to have a chance to listen to a survivor’s story as a primary source. A couple of students were able to enter the Memorial room with Vivienne and place a lit candle next to three others in honour of those who passed away during this period of time.

Ultimately, it was a very moving experience to be able to see artefacts and hear stories about World War II, and it taught us to appreciate what we have today. 

Ignite Catholic Youth Conference

The College is planning to take a small group of Year 10 - 12 students to the Ignite Catholic Youth Conference, for young people from all over Australia during 27th September – 1st October 2018 (middle of the September school holidays).

More information is available at https://igniteyouth.com/conference18/.

If you are interested in your child attending, please email me at sanastasia@crcmelton.com.au or contact the College office on 8099 6000.

An Information Evening will be held in the College Library on Thursday 21st June at 7:00pm.

Weekly Reflection

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful
And kindle in them the fire of Your love 
Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created 
And You shall renew the face of the earth
O God, Who instructed the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, Grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise and ever rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

CRC Federation Mass Day

Families are asked to note on their calendars that Friday, 1st June is the CRC Federation Mass day where staff from all five Regional Colleges come together at 2.00pm for Mass and reflection. The morning will be used for our staff to participate in Camps and Excursion Procedures and the College’s Annual Action Plan update. This has operated in Term 1 in previous years.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

All Year 9 and 10 students will receive copies of their Semester 2 electives this week. After reviewing with parents, request for changes to Semester 2 electives must be emailed directly to myself at jchristie@crcmelton.com.au between Monday, 28th May and Friday, 8th June. In the email, students need to nominate the electives they wish to change from and change to, along with a reason. I will then email students times to follow up on requests. Note that all changes are subject to blocking clashes, class sizes and selection requirements.

Year 11 students will be able to investigate any Unit 2 subject changes from Tuesday, 12th June. Students must first talk to their subject teacher before requesting a time to meet with Mrs Dickson, Pathways Coordinator. Once a pathway plan has been approved, students can complete a 'Change of Subject' Form. All changes must be applied for and processed by Thursday, 28th June.

VCE Unit 3 / Year 12 VCAL Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

A Parent-Student-Teacher Interview evening will be held on Thursday, 7th June between 4.00pm to 7.00pm for VCE Unit 3 & Year 12 VCAL students. These Interviews will be booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM)which will be open on Thursday, 31st May.  Normal classes will operate during the day.

It is expected that students attend interviews with their parents/guardians.

Mid Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks

Last week we published the College’s formal assessment schedule that will operate across Years 7 – 11. Below is a reminder of the first of these. Year 9 – 11 Exams begin on Thursday, 14th  June.

Years 7 & 8

Apart from Timed Assessment Tasks that will operate in normal class time, all Year 7 & 8 students will do a Timed Assessment Task in Mathematics and English blocks at the same time.  These assessment tasks will take place in their Homeroom Groups in their normal scheduled class. See below.

Student News

Congratulations to Emily Kro who competed in the Oceania Karate Championships in Auckland over the weekend. Emily took home a Gold Medal and is now the Under 21, Under 50kg Female Kumite Oceania Champion.

VCE Drama Classes WOW Audience!

The VCE Drama classes worked tirelessly in preparation for their ensemble performance night on 16th May. Each presentation was in the non-naturalistic style where the focus is more on the message of each piece, as opposed to more natural styles where the focus is placed on the story and/or characters. As such, the audience saw frequent changes in character, time and place. The Year 11 Drama class presented, 'Keep Your Coins, We Want Change,' and the Year 12 Drama class presented 'Rose Coloured Glasses, and 'Suri: www.mentalbreak.com.' All students involved are congratulated for their dedication and astounding performances. 

Head Lice

The school has had a case of Head Lice reported in Year 7. We ask that parents check their child for Lice.

Students identified with live head lice should be excluded from school until the day after treatment has commenced, as set out in the Health (Infectious Diseases) Regulations 2001, School Exclusion Table.

Parents & Friends Meeting

The next Parents & Friends Meeting will be held on Wednesday 30th May at 7:00pm. All welcome.

Speech Box - Vocabulary Development

Speech Boxes are provided for parents and students to suggest strategies that can be used to support learning.  This speech box considers the importance of vocabulary in academic success. This year we will provide you with many speech boxes that will cover different topics and provide information and suggestions for strategies that can enhance learning.

Attached is the first Speech Pathologists for Schools “Speech Box" for the year.

Speech Pathologists for Schools

speech box 1 vocabulary development.pdf

Reconciliation Week

The theme for Reconciliation Week in 2018 is Don't keep history a mystery - Learn. Share. Grow.

Melton City Council are encouraging people to explore their past, learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and cultures and develop a deeper understanding of our national story.

This year we are hosting an event for Reconciliation Week at the Melton Community Hall. This will include a Welcome to Country, didgeridoo performance and a reading by Charmaine Hamilton from the Melton History book.

Enjoy light refreshments, and take away with you a copy of the Wurundjeri's Cultural heritage of the Melton City Council written by Bill and Mandy Nicholson. A story which is one of the many stories of Australian's first people. 

Fran Grossi

Intercultural Project Officer, Melton City Council

Reconciliation Week Flyer.pdf

Refugee Week and the launch of Intercultural Cities

You are invited to celebrate Refugee Week 2018 and the launch of the Melton City Council's membership to the Council of Europe's Intercultural Cities Programme.

The Melton City Council is proud to announce its membership to the Intercultural Cities programme and its ongoing commitment to promote diversity and inclusion.

As an Intercultural City we focus on building trust and cohesion by encouraging interaction and mixing between cultural groups in the public realm and encouraging a positive discourse and attitude to diversity within the community.

We are pleased to launch this significant milestone for the Melton City Council on Refugee Week; a week to celebrate and acknowledge the valuable contributions of refugees to Australian society.

Please join us on Wednesday, 20th June to hear the inspiring stories of refugees and asylum seekers, enjoy cultural performances and food.

Fran Grossi, Intercultural Project Officer

Melton City Council

MCC0094 RefugeeWeekFlyer2018_FA2(digital).pdf

Weekly Reflection

Father,

Sometimes I feel bewildered by the world.
I don't understand how there can be such richness beside such poverty.
Help me to be generous and thoughtful of others.
I feel upset when I hear others cruel words or see hatred or prejudice.
Help me to be loving and accepting of all I meet.
Sometimes I feel down about the pressure on young people to succeed.
Lord, in this confusing world
Help me to look to you
And stay hopeful and happy

Amen

From the Principal

Principal's Review

I am up for a Review this year as it’s my tenth year as Principal at CRC Melton. The Review Panel are:

Mrs Patricia Cowling               Principal Consultant, CEM

Ms Christina Urti                    Principal CRC St Albans

Mr Damian McKee                  Principal Clonard College, Geelong

If you wish to provide input into the Review process, please email my Personal Assistant Samantha at ssacco@crcmelton.com.au.

NAPLAN

Each year NAPLAN testing attracts a lot of interest in the media and wider community and this doesn’t help many students and their families who are anxious about these tests. My general advice about NAPLAN is to approach it as ‘business as normal’ as it's meant to be informative about student learning- it’s not a test whose results will significantly impact on one’s future life choices.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Upcoming Events

This Friday, 18th May is a Staff Professional Learning day, and thus no classes will operate.

Monday, 11th June is the Queen’s Birthday Public Holiday.

Unit 2 and Unit 4 Studies begin on Tuesday, 14th June.

Travel Safety

We remind all students to be vigilant in their travels to and from school. There have been reports of students being offered lifts by an unknown male in the Melton West area.

Mid-year Exams and Times Assessment Tasks (TAT)

Years 7 & 8

Apart from TAT's that will operate in normal class times, all Year 7 & 8 students will do a TAT in Mathematics blocks and English at the same times. These assessment tasks will take place in Homeroom groups and take the place of the normally timetabled class. These are listed below.

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake assessment tasks beginning Tuesday, 14th June.  Elective assessments (TATs) will take place in normally scheduled class times.  Exams in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre on the following dates.

Year 10 & 11 Exams

Year 11 students will undertake VCE Unit 1 exams from Thursday, 14th June to Friday, 22nd June. Year 10 students will also have exams during this time.

• All Year 10 & 11 exams will take place in our Padua exam centre
• Students are only required at school when they have exams
• Supervised study rooms will operate for students who need or wish to be at school during non-exam periods
• Students will be expected to wear full college uniform when present for exams
• Students need to be at the College at least 15 minutes before the published starting times to ensure smooth entry into the exam venues
• Friday, 22nd June is allocated as a catch up day for any students who need to complete a missed exam or not completed subject outcome

Years 11 & 12 - VCAA General Achievement Task (GAT)

All Year 12 VCE Students and any Year 11 students undertaking a Unit 3/4 study must sit the GAT on Wednesday, 13th June as below:

Year 10 VINCIT and Year 11 & 12 VCAL students will follow their normal programs during the exam period.

School pick up/drop off

Whilst we realise that carparking both before and after school can be congested at times, we do ask that parents/guardians do not park in front of any of our vehicle gates. Last week our Outdoor Education staff and students had difficulty getting back on site through Gate 1 as cars were parked across it. If this continues to be an issue, we will have no other option but to contact Council traffic officers and police and issue fines.

All Schools Swimming Championships

On Monday 7th May, 7 of our top swimmers were selected to represent SACCSS in the inaugural All Schools Swimming Championships held at MSAC. Jack O'Rourke, Ben Wills, Angela Molnar, Kaila & Karlos Nuestro and Alannah & James Morrow represented our College in the SACCSS team. They were up against some of the best schools in the State, with all sporting associations represented.  All 7 of our students swam exceptionally well with some of them swimming against National swimmers. Karlos Nuestro placed 2nd in the 100m Freestyle. Well done to all involved.

Canteen News

We have started our Winter Menu!

New menu items include:

• Pasta bolognaise (Canteen made)
• Macaroni cheese (Canteen made)
• Pumpkin soup (Canteen made)
• Meatball and gravy sub
• Chicken Parma rolls and hot dogs, now available every day
• Cheese and Spinach pastry roll as another vegetarian option
• Hot Chocolates (available from breakfast onwards)

There are also new breakfast deals and egg and bacon muffins to warm you up before school.

Don’t forget you can order online by creating an account with Ultimate Schools or by placing your lunch order direct to the canteen by the end of recess.

Weekly Reflection

Holy Spirit and Seat of Wisdom,

help us in the great endeavour that we are carrying out to meet on a more and more mature way,

our brothers and sisters in the faith.

Through all the means of knowledge, of mutual respect, of love,

may we be able to rediscover gradually the divine plan.

Teach us constantly the ways that lead to unity.

Help us all to proclaim Christ and reveal the power of God.

Amen

Celebration Day

Today we held our annual Celebration Day which began with Mass at our local Parishes. This is a very unique and special tradition the College maintains as most Catholic Colleges celebrate their special days or feast days within the school.

In arriving at school, the students had the opportunity to listen to buskers, take rides, purchase food, compete in bubble soccer or dodge ball and listen and watch students perform in CRC's Got Talent. 

Congratulations and thanks to the Student Leaders and Student Leader Ms Sertic for their organisation and effort in putting together a great day.

Unit 3/4 Practice GAT

All students completing a Unit 3/4 subject will be completing a practice GAT on Thursday 17th May during period 4. Students will be undertaking two written tasks from a past GAT paper, which will take them one hour. This will then be sent to a GAT marker and students will be provided with explicit feedback about their work.

Please note: any student who completed the GAT last year is not required to complete this practice task.

NAPLAN Testing Years 7 & 9 2018

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for Years 7 and 9 students will be held on Tuesday 15th May, Wednesday 16th May and Thursday 17th May. NAPLAN tests assess student knowledge and skills in Writing, Reading, Language Conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy. The results of the tests provide information for students, parents, teachers and school leadership which can be used to improve student achievement.

All Years 7 and 9 students are expected to participate in the NAPLAN tests. The College’s Learning Support staff will contact the parents of those students who may be eligible for an exemption due to a diagnosed disability. Parental consent is required before any support due to disability or exemption is granted.

Parents will receive a personal NAPLAN report later in the year. The report will describe each student’s particular skills in Reading, Writing, Language Conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and Numeracy. The report will also show performance in relation to national minimum standards. These describe the minimum acceptable standards for students across Australia. This report should be kept by parents as it may be required in later years for scholarship applications or change of schools. 

For more information about the tests, please visit the VCAA website at www.vcaa.vic.edu.au or the NAPLAN website at www.nap.edu.au.

NAPLAN Testing will operate at the following times:

TUESDAY, 15th MAY

WEDNESDAY, 16th MAY

THURSDAY, 17th MAY

These times are stipulated by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority to ensure all schools are undertaking tests at common times. Students will need to have a ruler, an eraser and book to read (if they finish early) as well as their books for the remainder of each period class of each session unless told otherwise (as most tests will not take a full 1 period time allotment). Can I particularly stress the need for all Year 7 and 9 students to have their own calculator for the Thursday morning test. 

CRC Athletics Carnival

Tuesday 24th April was the annual CRC Athletics Carnival at the Melton Athletics Track in Atherstone. We had many students participate in a range of track, field and novelty events for the day. Competition was fierce amongst many age groups and winners came down to mere seconds or centimetres.

All of our Year 12’s dressed up in their House colours in some very interesting costumes. The carnival ended with a Fashions on the Field parade to showcase all of their costumes.

Below are the results of the Houses for the day with the relays being the decider in points:

1^st place – Daffey – 2902

2^nd place – Glasheen – 2883

3^rd place – Reed – 2764

4^th place – Fitzgerald – 2739

Well done Daffey on the Athletics Carnival win. It has been a very long time since Daffey has won and you should all be very proud! Every one of you who participated helped contribute to your points and House win, great job. The house MVP's are awarded by the house leaders to one student from each house that has demonstrated high levels of participation, sportsmanship and team spirit. Our 2018 House MVP’s will be awarded at our next full school assembly. 

Mothers Day Stall

VCAL and Vincit students are holding a Mother's Day stall on Thursday 10th and Friday 11th of May at lunch time.

Mugs will be for sale for $4.00, plants for $5.00 and cards for $2.00.

Volleyschool

Western Region Volleyball will be offering a number of FREE VOLLEYSCHOOL sessions allowing students of CRC Melton to come along and see
what the buzz is about Volleyball. Coaching is provided by professional coaches! 
These sessions will commence on Tuesday 15th May at 3.45 pm, running for 90 minutes. If there are sufficient numbers, a second session would run from 5.15pm.
There will be 2 or 3 free sessions (next on Tuesday 22nd May), then students could enrol to participate on a termly basis, with fees to be advised. 
Please visit the Library to enter your name on the sign up sheets.
Contact Mr Hill in the library if needing more information.

Student News - Weightlifting Champions

On 29th March, Joel Wood and Alishia Lane attended the AWF (Australian Weightlifting Federation) Victorian Open School League Round 1. Competing for Invictus Fitness MMA and Geelong Weightlifting Club.

Alishia Lane won Best Female Lifter in the competition overall and winning her age and weight class with a massive Personal Best to her total weight lifted from 98 to 109! She lifted 43kg in the Snatch and 60Kg in the Clean and Jerk. 

Joel Wood won Best under 15 Male lifter and won his age and weight class. Joel improved his overall total by 2kg. He lifted 32kg snatch and a 45kg Clean and Jerk. 

Both students were awarded their medals and trophies by Commonwealth Games Athletes. 

Joel has now officially qualified for Nationals which will be held in Perth in July representing Victoria in his age group. Alishia has one more competition to add only 3kg to her total, for her to also qualify.  

Languages News

There is lots happening in the Languages Department this term. There are three excursions during this term. The first is to the University of Melbourne on Thursday 31st May for all Year 9 to 12 students studying Italian. They will be reciting their chosen Italian poem to an examiner. This task is known as the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition.

The second and third excursions are both being held on Thursday 28th June, the second last day of term. The Year 8 students studying Italian will visit the Calabria Club in Bulla, whereby students will partake in an array of activities such as: playing bocce, playing soccer, learning an Italian dance, la tarantella and making pasta. They will then indulge in a delicious Italian hot lunch followed by gelati for dessert.  The Year 8 students studying Indonesian will look forward to spending the day at the Royal Melbourne Zoo exploring the different animals on display.

Please accept Care Monkey to ensure your child is able to attend their designated excursion.

From the Principal

ANZAC Day at the City of Melton

Our College Captains Madalyn McGill and Ethan Trethowan represented CRC at the City of Melton ANZAC Dawn service on Wednesday. Maddy and Ethan read the Ode with great respect in front of the large crowd assembled for the service.

Young Minds Matter Expo

The College recently hosted a youth mental health forum for the City of Melton on Thursday 19 April. Over 150 people attended and heard from speakers including former AFL star Wayne Schwass and musician Clare Bowditch about their experiences of depression and strategies they used to help them. The evening was launched by the Mayor Bob Turner as part of the City of Melton’s community partnership initiative. Information was available from a number of organisations on the night, eg. Headspace, Beyond Blue, Djerriwarrh Youth Services, Care in Mind, Catholic Care. It was a most informative and valuable evening.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

Attendance Policy

The School requires regular attendance. At the Principal’s discretion, this can be waived where a student suffers a prolonged illness or if prior approval for leave of absence has been granted.

Students must be in school throughout the hours of a normal school day. Students are to attend all timetabled periods. This includes all homeroom, assemblies, house meetings, our Celebration Day, house activities and house sporting carnivals. Students are required to attend a minimum of 90% of classes (unless there are mitigating circumstances). It was most disappointing to see over 220 students not attending the athletics house sports last week. Celebration Day is a compulsory event happening next Tuesday 8th May. We are currently cross checking student absence with the swimming sports to determine if a regular pattern appears.

Whenever a student is absent from school, a written note signed by a parent/guardian is to be presented to the Homeroom teacher on the day of return.  For the absence to be approved by the school, parent/guardians need to support the absence with a Medical Certificate or parental note made by the parent/guardian regarding their son/daughter’s illness preventing them from attending school.  A Statutory Declaration is permissible as an alternative to the Medical Certificate if the student is unable to secure a doctor appointment on the day of the illness for Year 11 and 12 students.  Any student consistently missing class due to illness needs to keep documentation to verify they have genuine reasons, e.g. medical certificates.

Students are to be punctual to school and to class. The day begins with Homeroom at 8.48am. Students are required to be at school by the start of Homeroom.  Appointments are expected to take place out of school hours. If this is not possible, advance notice is required.

No student may leave the school grounds without the prior approval of the Year Level Coordinator. If such permission has been granted, the student must sign out at Student Reception and sign in again when he/she returns. In cases of illness, students must attend Sick Bay and permission must be granted to leave the school if appropriate.

For satisfactory completion of a Semester Unit, a student must demonstrate achievement of the set outcomes as specified for each subject and satisfy the attendance requirement of 90%. The key knowledge and skills required to satisfy these outcomes are taught in class and as such it is expected students will attend. A child’s attendance falling below this requirement could result in not being promoted to the next year level.

Students absent on holiday during regular school term.

The College often gets requests from parents re taking students out of school time for extended holiday periods. The following procedures have been in place to meet these requests

• Parents need to write to the Principal providing details of why and when the student will be absent from school. The College will acknowledge this correspondence.
• Teaching staff will not be required to provide work for students who are absent from class and miss teaching/learning due to holidays taken in term time.
• Course outlines will be provided by the subject teacher and available through the school intranet (PAM) if requested so that parents can deliver/arrange appropriate instruction through a tutor.
• It will be the responsibility of the student to arrange alternative dates for assessment task completion prior to his/her departure.
• If the student does not submit the assessment work prior to his/her departure, he/she may receive a grade NS (not submitted) for each task.
• If the student is absent for a period longer than two weeks, the assessment of his/her work will be made on the tasks completed for the period of the semester he/she has been in attendance at school.
• It is not advisable that VCE students are absent from during school for extended periods during the school term

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Our first Parent-Student-Teacher interviews appeared to run smoothly over the first 2 weeks of term. Any feedback on the organisation of these interviews, as we are trialling this new format, is most welcome.  Please email me at jchristie@crcmelton.com.au.

Upcoming Events

Just a reminder that next Tuesday, 8th May is the College Celebration Day. All students make their way to the parish Church services in the morning followed by a day of celebrations here at the College. Details are included in other sections of this newsletter. 

Friday, 18th May is a Staff Professional Learning day and thus no classes will operate.

Principal Review

Please see attached letter to the CRC Community regarding the Principal Review for Mr Mark Sheehan, to be held 15th and 17th May.

Patricia Cowling

Catholic Education Office, Melbourne

Letter to Community (002).pdf

Celebration Day/Back to Parish Mass

On Tuesday 8th of May, students will start their day at their local parish church for morning Mass with their parish community.

Those attending St Anthony’s and St Bernard’s are expected to make their own way to church and are required 15 minutes before Mass begins. Students celebrating Mass at St Anthony’s or St Bernard’s will return to school by bus for Celebration Day activities.

Darley and Underbank buses will not be operating Tuesday morning as Bacchus Marsh students will meet at St Bernards Church.

CRC staff will be at all parishes and supervise the return to school.

Students of Melton Parish will be celebrating at St Catherine’s and will start the morning at school,  arriving by 8.40am and gathering in year level areas for roll taking and will then move across to church.

The College day will have a  finish time of 3.00pm. Buses will run as normal after school.

Students are to wear PE uniform.

Mass times:       

• St Bernard’s        9.00am
• St Anthony’s       9.15am  
• St  Catherine’s    9.15am

ANZAC Day Remembrance Service

The College held its ANZAC Day service last Thursday in front of our Lone Pine. The service was lead by the College Captains Madie McGill and Ethan Trethowan, they were supported by Liturgy Captains Shehan Tennakon and Evana Miesen with the reading of the Lord's Prayer and In Flanders Field. Sport Captain Boden Mugridge and Deputy Social Justice Captain Annamariya Praveen laid the wreath on behalf of the school. The ceremony finished with the singing of the New Zealand national anthem by Mrs Joyce, students Philipa and Bagena Malua and Regina Laumata and the Australian anthem by Briannah Mungcal. 

ANZAC Day 2018

This year, the final year of the Anzac Centenary, marks the 103rd anniversary of the landings at Gallipoli and the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux in France, in which 2400 Australians died fighting alongside the British to push back a German spring offensive.

The library wanted to recognise the contribution made to the ANZAC spirit by displaying links staff have to the Australian Armed Services. Contributions by staff were made of personal family treasures.

·         Ms Moore volunteered her own slouch hat.

·         Mr Attard provided a bayonet from Malta WWI

·         Mr Hill’s wife sent in her grandfather’s photos and memorabilia.

·         Ms Brown provided a Vietnam service jacket from her step=father and various other pieces of photos from her extended family.

·         Mrs Pope gave us some postcards written home during the war to family from her grandfather, a military farrier.

·         Mr Iannazzo gave us details of a family member with an interesting story.

·         And finally from New Zealand, Mrs Joyce provided photos of her proud kiwi military heritage.

This has made for a very personal display which the children have been enjoyed.

SACCSS Swimming

On Tuesday 27^th March 38 students embarked on a journey to MSAC for SACCSS Swimming.  The students competed in 96 different events for the day.  Our students swam exceptionally well with many of them gaining a place.  The results for the day were:

Tyler Goudge – three 1^st, three 3^rd

Karlos Nuestro – seven 1^st, two new records and Age Group Champion

James Morrow – two 1^st, one 2^nd, two 3^rd

Angela Molnar – five 1^st, one 2^nd and Age Group Champion

Katrina Nuestro – five 2^nd

Kaila Nuestro – three 2^nd and three 3^rd

Celeste Kenner – three 2^nd and one 3^rd

Ben Wills – one 1^st, four 2^nd and two 3^rd

Jack O’Rouke – three 1^st and two 2^nd

Alannah Morrow – two 1^st, three 2^nd and Age Group Champion

We were also Senior Boys Champions and Overall Senior Champions.

We congratulate Karlos Nuestro, James Morrow, Angela Molnar, Kaila Nuestro, Benn Wills, Jack O’Rourke and Alannah Morrow who have made the All Schools Swimming Carnival to be held on 7th May.  Congratulations to all those who participated.

Celebration Day

On the 8th of May CRC will be holding our annual Celebration Day. Students begin the day attending mass at their local parishes before coming back to school where there will be fun games and activities for the students to enjoy to help raise funds for our chosen charities.

Celebration day is an annual event where we celebrate being part of the CRC federation and acknowledge our faith by raising money for our chosen charities. This year the funds raised will be shared between our school in Kenya, Brother Beausang; the Gem Foundation, who care for 40 children with special needs in Uganda, and HoMie, which aims to create pathways out of homelessness and hardship for young people in Melbourne. To find out more about these charities please click the links below:

http://thegemfoundation.com/

https://homie.com.au/pages/about

From this week, early bird wristbands will be on sale for $10 at lunchtime to students outside the front of the library.  They will then be on sale for $15 the week of Celebration Day and on Celebration Day from 10.30-11.30am.  These wristbands will entitle the students to unlimited rides, banner making and entrance to CRC’s got talent.

This year we have four main attractions and rides:

·         The Cha Cha- A carnival ride in which suspended riders spinning in cars experience centrifugal force, while spinning on two separate axes.

·         The Edge Slide- A 10m high inflatable drop slide

·         The Eliminator- An inflatable mechanical wipe-out game which challenges 8 contestants on their ability to jump and dodge the rotating arm

·         The Bungee Basketball Run- An inflatable competitive game which tempts you to slam dunk the ball only to jerk you back at the last second

Other activities include:

·         Talent Show – Students showcase their talents and are in the chance to win one of 3 Woodgrove vouchers

·         Bubble Soccer- Students wear a giant inflatable bubble as they compete in a game of soccer

·         Banner Making – Each house will create a scrapbook where students can add messages and fingerprints, which will be displayed in the school

·         Dodgeball competition - Junior and Senior house competitions will be held in the hall

·         Busking – Students will be showcasing their talents around the school.

·         Lan Party – The computer labs will be open for students to compete in a gaming competition.

·         Community stalls – We have many local and national community stalls coming to talk to students about how they can use their resources or get involved in social justice activities outside of school

Students will receive a raffle ticket which entitles them to a free BBQ sausage or drink. Additional hot food and sweets will be available for purchase throughout the day including pizza, donuts, and potato twisters. A full menu and prices will be released later this week.

We would like parents/guardians to be aware that some of the rides and activities may not be suitable for students with asthma, heart conditions, epilepsy, anxiety, vertigo and low blood pressure.  If you have any queries please contact Sue Davies in the office.

We look forward to celebrating this exciting day with all students next Tuesday and hope to raise in excess of $10 000 for our charities.

Mary MacKillop Museum Open Day

The Mary MacKillop Museum at 362 Albert Street East Melbourne tells the inspiring story of Australia’s St Mary of the Cross MacKillop.

The Museum has a special Open Day on Saturday, 5th May, from 10.00am-4.00pm with a guided Mary MacKillop Walking Tour at 11.00am and a special morning or afternoon tea available between 11.00am & 3.00pm.

Sisters of St Joseph & the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre

2018 OPEN DAY - May.1.pptx.pdf

The Clothesline Project: Changing the Story

The Clothesline project will be happening at Celebration day on May 8th. We are hoping that many students and staff will come along and get involved.

What is the Project?

The project began in 1990 as a way to address the issue of violence against women. It encourages community members to create messages and images on t-shirts to support women and children who have experienced violence and to inspire a community that is free from Violence.

Hanging out washing was traditionally seen as women’s work and in days gone by in small communities, women would communicate over the fence while hanging out the washing. It was often the only way some women had to reach out to other women in their community.

Since its inception in 1990 community members have gathered to discuss their messages with one another while involved in the t-shirt activity.

On Celebration day we will have t-shirts and pens available for students and staff to write/ draw their messages on. We are adapting the project to be about prevention of violence, especially the prevention of domestic violence.

“657 domestic violence matters are dealt with everyday by Australian Police”.

St Vincent de Paul Soup Van Experience

On the last Wednesday of Term 1 Rebecca Carey and myself accompanied 6 students on the soup van experience. We travelled through the city and surrounding suburbs visiting various locations where people gather for conversation and the free food provided by St. Vincent De Paul volunteers. Our role was to give out clothing and toiletries while being a friendly and welcoming face for others to talk to.

The students approached their roles with enthusiasm and showed great compassion and dignity to all that they met. Below are their responses. I would like to thank the students, Rebecca Carey and also the families who donated goods and came out late at night to pick up their children.

Student responses

“such an amazing night that really opens your eyes to the things people who are homeless experience. I’ll never forget the stories I got the privilege to hear and not to mention the amazing hot chocolate.”
- Kate Levett

“one of the most amazing things I’ll ever get to experience. This experience is such an eye opener and it really makes you think about how blessed you are to have a roof over your head and food on your table every night. The people we met were absolutely incredible and they all absolutely destroy the stereotypes of all people suffering homelessness. It’s something I will never forget and I will always be thankful for this experience and the people we met and the stories they told.” - Chelsea Dickinson

“this has been an experience of a lifetime. This has not only been just a volunteer event but something that truly opens your eyes to the different possibilities and circumstances people fight and battle through when facing homelessness.…. I finally realise how many things we take for granted and how privileged we are to have access to lots of facilities that meet our everyday needs.” - Kenrick Mascarenhas 

“Although it was a bit daunting at first, it was an overall amazing opportunity that I would recommend to everyone……..this will be an experience none of us will forget.” - Rebecca Chin

The next opportunity for students to participate in this activity will be Wednesday 20th June. Those interested are asked to email mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au. I will continue to accept donations of toiletries, tissues, razors, toothpaste, beanies, blankets, jackets and sleeping bags. These donations are distributed to those we meet on the soup van evenings.

Study With Your Health Not Against It: 2018 Education Forum

VTAC will again be one of the presenters at the "Study With Your Health Not Against It" Forum on Wednesday 16 May 2018 organised by Royal Children's Hospital, Ronald McDonald Learning Program, Capital City LLEN and Starlight's Livewire Program. This free event is for young people with chronic health conditions and/or disabilities and their support networks (parents and teachers).

More information is available at the event registration page.

Celebrating 40 Years

CRC Federation

40th anniversary_newsletter 1.pdf

NDIS Preperation

Dear Mambourin Community,

RE: We want you to be fully prepared for the NDIS!

To help you prepare, we are again running our NDIS Community Sessions. We have also listed dates where you can book in an individual NDIS pre-planning session with our NDIS team. All the information you need about these sessions is listed below.

NDIS COMMUNITY SESSIONS
The community sessions will take place at Altona and Braybrook. At these sessions we will go over the latest NDIS information and answer any questions that you may have. All of this information will help you through your NDIS journey and assists you to be as prepared as possible.

NDIS Community session dates and times:

Monday 14th May
6pm – 7.30pm             Altona: 130 Queen Street Altona VIC 3016

Wednesday 16th

2pm – 3:30pm              Derrimut : 159 Derrimut Drive Derrimut 3030

Thursday 17th May
6pm – 7.30pm             Braybrook: 1 Ravenhall Street Braybrook VIC 3019

To rsvp to either of the above NDIS Community sessions, please call Head Office 9731 9200.

INDIVIDUAL NDIS PRE-PLANNING SESSIONS
We have opened up a number of dates for you to book in an individual NDIS pre-planning session. At your session, we will discuss your goals and explain what information you will need to collect before your NDIS planning meeting.

Depending on demand, your initial session may be limited to half an hour. To assist us in preparing your Information Pack, please RSVP by the 21st May .

Individual Sessions Dates and times:

*These sessions will start at 9am and run until 5pm of each day. Sessions will run in half hour time slots.*

Mon 28th May             Deer Park: Cnr Mile and Ballarat Rd Deer Park VIC 3023

Fri 25th May               Derrimut: 159 Derrimut Drive Derrimut 3030 9am – 4pm

Wed 30th May             Altona: 130 Queen Street Altona VIC 3016

Fri 1st June                 Sunshine: 50 Stanford St Sunshine VIC 3020

Mon 4th June              Braybrook: 1 Ravenhall Street Braybrook VIC 3019

Wed 6th June               Werribee: 11 Walls Rd Werribee VIC 3030

Tues 12th June            Melton/Bacchus Marsh: 1 Collins Rd Melton VIC 3337

To book an individual session please call Head Office on 9731 9200 to see what times are available.

Can’t make these dates? Don’t worry! We are happy to discuss your NDIS pre-planning with you at another time. Also, we will run these sessions again if there is heavy demand.

Canteen News

Next Tuesday is Celebration Day so regular canteen services will not be offered on this day. There will be other lunch options available and we will instead be operating a sweet/bake stall.

Our favourites are back from previous years, so pop in to our stall and satisfy that sweet tooth craving. Here is what we will have for sale on the day.

$2.00 options

Choc caramel slice

Chocolate brownie

Gluten free Chocolate brownie

Oreo fudge

Chocolate cake

Banana Cake

Rainbow Cupcakes

Sour lolly bags

$1.00 options

Truffles (3 for $1.00)

Honey Joys

All goods are baked on our premises in the canteen and we will be donating a percentage of sales to the nominated charities.

Spartans Basketball Club

Spartans Basketball Club are looking for players. Please see attached flyer if you are interested.

Spartans Basketball Club

Spartans.jpg

Weekly Reflection

Prayer for Autumn Days

God of the seasons, there is a time for everything; there is a time for dying and a time for rising. We need courage to enter into the transformation process.

God of autumn, the trees are saying goodbye to their green, letting go of what has been. We, too, have our moments of surrender, with all their insecurity and risk. Help us to let go when we need to do so.

God of fallen leaves lying in coloured patterns on the ground, our lives have their own patterns. As we see the patterns of our own growth, may we learn from them.

God of misty days and harvest moon nights, there is always the dimension of mystery and wonder in our lives. We always need to recognize your power-filled presence. May we gain strength from this.

God of flowers touched with frost and windows wearing white designs, may your love keep our hearts from growing cold in the empty seasons.

God of life, you believe in us, you enrich us, you entrust us with the freedom to choose life. For all this, we are grateful.

From the Principal

Resilience Project

You will have heard about the Resilience Project that Mr Blackley has introduced to the school this year.

It is based on the key concepts of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness, all of which contribute to building resilience.

There were plenty of examples of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness in the Commonwealth Games over the past two weeks.

Kurt Fearnley, a seasoned performer and Paralympian, displayed enormous gratitude after his performances in the 1500 metres (Silver medal) and the Marathon in which he won Gold.

Kurt praised his fantastic fans for how they had embraced all the para events at the Commonwealth Games, Fearnley also issued a passionate plea that people make disability rights and access a priority in their everyday lives. "I've been put in this amazing position of privilege that I'm extremely grateful for, and I've just got to say there's a lot of people with disabilities out there that haven't been given the privilege that I have"

It was terrific to see Kurt and all the disabled athletes competing at the same time/venue and getting their rightful attention.

And talking about empathy, the Aussie trio of Eloise Wellings, Madeline Hills and Celia Sullohern displayed great empathy and sportsmanship as they waited for Lineo Chaka to complete the 10km final. The exhausted Aussie women had every right to immediately leave the track with the rest of the competitors, but instead they opted to stay behind long after Uganda star Stelle Chesang won the event. Lineo Chaka of the little-known nation of Lesotho came in last place over five minutes behind the winner, and a further three minutes behind the runner in front of her. She was met at the finish line by the gracious Australian girls who waited to congratulate her on completion of one of the most physically demanding events at the Commonwealth Games. Celia Sullohern - who finished fifth - said she was proud of the moment and proud of her sport.

Sports Stadium

On the topic of sport, the new Sports Stadium is starting to take shape as the steel girders for the walls were installed last week.

It is anticipated that the project will be completed in time for on official opening in October this year.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Welcome back to Term 2. I hope you all had the opportunity to share Easter as a family, and students are all rested for the term ahead.  Please note that staff will undertake class surveys over the next 2 weeks. These are now a regular feature of our teaching practice and are designed to provide feedback to staff on how their students are learning and can highlight areas of student affirmation and concern. Staff will then use this to adjust their teaching where necessary to improve learning across the class.

New Staff

We warmly welcome Lisa Hughes and Sarah Abbas to our staff. Mrs Hughes will be employed in our Student Support area and Ms Abbas will be our 2nd College Psychologist assisting our Counsellors in their work. We also have a number of Pre-Service Teachers working with us this term. I am sure our students will make them all feel welcome.

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Parent-Student-Teacher interviews are now open to be booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM). Interviews will take place on 18th and 26th April.

This year we are trialling two afternoon/evening sessions:

·         Wednesday, 18th April Interviews: 4pm to 8:30pm

·         Thursday, 26th April Interviews: 4pm to 7pm

It is expected that students attend interviews with their parents/guardians.

To access P-S-T Bookings:

·         Log in to PAM

·         At the top you will see the Parent Interviews link (click to enter)

·         Then select your child (if you have more than one, each will be listed separately)

·         Select the subject

·         Choose an available time with that teacher

·         Repeat for each class and child as needed.

·         Use the print icon to print off your interview times.

Bookings initially close on Wednesday, 17th April at 10am and will then reopen for the following Thursday at 9pm.

Athletics

A reminder that Tuesday, 24th April is our College Athletics Carnival. Students will either make their own way to the event or come to school as normal and then be bussed to the Melton Athletics track for the day, being dismissed there or returning in time for normal College dismissal time. Families will have received a CareMonkey notification of this and also asking parent/guardians to nominate their child’s method of going and returning on the day. Bacchus Marsh Coaches will alter their solo runs to drop off at the venue and then pick up here at school as normal.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

Term 1 - School Spirit Awards

Congratulations to the following students for being announced as the School Spirit Award for Term 1.

Year 7

Arok Deng (7R)

Arok is always friendly, optimistic, helpful and studious. She has demonstrated a positive and mature approach to her first term at CRC. She works hard in all of her subjects to achieve her best and has met the challenges of Year 7 with diligence and a positive attitude. At Year 7 camp, Arok showed her caring nature and leadership skills with her kindness and willingness to help others.

Aydan Dear (7D)

Aydan has made a positive start to the school year through a conscientious and hard-working approach. He always exhibits a positive outlook and attitude and displays compassion, courtesy, respect and cooperation in all that he participates in. Aydan is a kind friend who is an excellent role model and valued member of his homeroom.

Year 8

Lana Sciberras (8R)

Lana is an extremely hard working member of the Year 8 cohort. Nominated by her teachers she is always willing to listen to feedback and strives to improve her work to achieve a higher standard. Lana participated in all aspects of camp with enthusiasm and also represented the Year 8 cohort at the recent St Patricks Day mass in the city.

Charlie McNab (8B)

Charlie is described by teachers as being very active in her learning whilst being committed to doing her best on every task across a range of subjects. Charlie relates very well to both her teachers and peers and models impeccable behavior at all times.

Year 9

Raheal Mengistu (9R)

Raheal is a very polite and conscientious student. She always wants to do her best, and will ask questions to clarify what is required of her so she can complete her work to a high standard. In her interactions with her peers, she is extremely friendly, and will help others without hesitation.

Kiowa Hilbert (9O)

Kiowa quietly goes about her days, supporting others in the class when needed, and ensuring her work is of a high standard. She wears her school uniform well and looks out for others. She is a quiet achiever who is worthy of recognition

Year 10

Cecilia Riak (10M)

Cecilia was an integral member of the Peer Support Program throughout Term 1 and has consistently shown dedication and enthusiasm towards the demands of this role. Her positive attitude and willingness to assist in the transition of the youngest members of the College serves as an example to her peers. Cecilia's subject teachers indicate the same levels of dedication and selflessness are also being demonstrated within their respective classrooms.

Jack Bacchin (10R)

Jack is a student who has demonstrated a great deal of character and integrity throughout the opening term. He embodies the College ethos through his interactions with both staff and students and his subject teachers attest to the positive influence he has within the classroom. Jack's diligent approach towards his studies has enabled him to achieve excellent results throughout the beginning of the school year. 

Year 11

Irene Thour (11O)

Irene works extremely hard and is always up-to-date with tasks. She constantly seeks feedback and tries to improve on her learning. Irene is always kind, generous and willing to put herself out in order to help others. She has taken on the challenge of her VCE studies with maturity and integrity.

Christina Molnar (11O)

Christina has started the year off impeccably with a commitment to doing her best. Her focus and determination in completing all outcomes to the best of her ability has been outstanding this term. She is polite and works well with her peers. She meets all deadlines and demonstrates a mature approach to her TAFE and work placement commitments.

Year 12

Emily Flack (12O)

Emily was nominated by various staff members due to her diligent work ethic and active participation in College activities. She was an outstanding support at the College School swimming sports by encouraging all students to participate and assisted the House Captains with ensuring there were competitors in the pool. She also assisted to raise money for Caritas by selling icy poles for her homeroom, and attended a Human Rights seminar in her own time. Emily is demonstrating to all her teachers how hard she is working in Year 12. Finally, Emily has proven that she is an active and supportive member of her homeroom.

Rylie Maple (12C)

Rylie has a supporting and caring nature. He is always willing to participate in class discussions and ensure that what needs to be said is done so in a courteous manner. Rylie is very helpful in homeroom assisting with what is asked of him to do. Rylie’s friendly, approachable and caring nature has made him stand out amongst his cohort.

School Photos

Full school photos are scheduled for Thursday of this week 19th April. All students are to be in full winter uniform for the photos. Friday 20th April is a catch up day for those students absent on Thursday. All students will have their photo taken regardless of them ordering photos or not.

As was the case last year ordering of photos is done online, http://www.arphotos.com.au/ using the school code: 1804CR238.

Individual class and family photos will be taken on the day.  Details as to how to order photos has been sent home with students and also attached with the newsletter.

A range of payment options are available online, including ZipPay, so you can order now and pay later!

If paying cash on the day of the photos, it must be the correct amount as the photographers or the school don’t provide change. 

School Uniform – Term 2

All students now need to be in winter uniform, the Blazer is the external garment to be worn to and from school when in school uniform.

The PE uniform is only worn when the student has a timetabled PE or Drama/Dance class, or when otherwise specified by the College Leadership team. CRC sport socks are compulsory for all year levels

Students need to be neatly presented, i.e., for the boys clean shaven and girls not wearing makeup or nail polish. We look for your support in ensuring your son or daughter is wearing the College uniform correctly to and from school.                    

Young Minds Matter Youth Forum

A youth mental health forum is being held here Thursday 19th April 5-8.30pm, it is a free event and includes workshops with the Hopeful Institute and Jonny Shannon. Speakers include former AFL star Wayne Schwass, musician Clare Bowditch, headspace and beyondblue. Arrive at 5pm for dinner and the expo.

Tickets are still available and you can register online: https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?eid=361913&

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal (Students)

CRC Melton-ONLINE LINK-2018.pdf
CRC Melton-ONLINE FLYER-2018.pdf
CRC Melton-FAMILY FLYER-2018.pdf

Languages News

Silvana Nuspan and I were fortunate to spend Easter in Italy visiting our Sister School, Convitto Nazionale Paolo Diacono in Cividale, in the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia. We were invited to not only observe a number of classes in the Liceo Scientifico but we also taught classes in the middle school. It was very interesting observing the pedagogical methods in English, Mathematics and Italian. Mobile phones were never seen in class and students were very focussed. Homework was often set and completed promptly.

There was a diversity of cultures represented in the school including backgrounds from Slovenia, Bangladesh, India and various countries from all over Europe. Australian students have a very good reputation in the schools and it is the dream of many Italian students to visit our beautiful country. It is very evident that being bilingual and trilingual has many employment opportunities overseas and in all industries. Languages is certainly held in very high regard. Our overwhelming experience was also attending the Vatican and listening to the Easter Sunday Mass where we were blessed by Pope Francesco. We felt privileged being in Italy and we look forward to sharing our wonderful Italian journey with the students at CRC Melton. 

Project Compassion Fundraising for Lent

Last term the students were urged to donate to Project Compassion during Lent. Caritas which oversees this yearly collection supports some tremendous programs overseas with the funds raised.

The school community raised $1963 with some more to be added. A great effort.

Young Minds Matter - Youth Mental Health Forum

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Melton City Council would like to invite you to the Young Minds Matter - Youth Mental Health Forum for young people aged 12+ and the adults in their lives, to encourage families to talk about mental wellbeing at home.

The free forum on Thursday 19th April from 5:00-8:30pm will feature high profile guest speakers, workshops and local service providers, including former AFL star Wayne Schwass, musician Clare Bowditch, Headspace and Beyondblue.

There will also be dinner and an expo of local mental health services.

For more information please see the flyer or visit https://www.trybooking.com/UPJT to register.

Melton City Council

Youth Mental Health Forum - Flyer A4.pdf

Weekly Reflection

An Easter Prayer

Of all of God's gifts
Easter shows us our fate
Forgiven we will rise
And pass through Heaven's gate

This Easter remember
The sacrifice of a Son
And through His resurrection
Eternal life we have won

This Easter I pray
That the love of God
Is resurrected
Reborn, renewed
Inside your heart
God Bless You!

From the Principal

Resurrection Power

Since his visit to Australia in July , 2016 I have been following the writings of Fr Ron Rolheiser, an Oblate priest from Canada. As we approach Easter Sunday, I share below with you his writing on ‘Resurrection Power’.

Fr. Ron  reminds us that “the Resurrection is something that buoys up every moment of life and every aspect of reality.” The Resurrection is not just something that happened to Jesus 2,000 years ago and will happen to each of us some time in the future after we die when our own bodies will be raised to new life. It is that, but much more.

The Resurrection is something that buoys up every moment of life and every aspect of reality. God is always making new life and undergirding it with a goodness, graciousness, mercy and love that, in the end, heals all wounds, forgives all sins and brings deadness of all kinds to new life.

We feel this resurrecting power in the most ordinary moments of our lives. A sense of the Resurrection, understood in its deepest sense, manifests itself unconsciously in our vitality, in what we call health; the feeling, however dimly it is sensed, that it is good to be alive. The very atomic structure of the cosmos feels and knows that resurrecting power. That is why it (like us, when we are healthy) pushes forward blindly, buoyed up by a hope that it cannot understand.

A friend of mine once sent me an Easter card that ended with the challenge: “May you leave behind you a string of empty tombs!” That is both my Easter wish and my Easter challenge for all of us.

Let our wounded, muted voices begin to sing again:

“Christ is risen! Life is very, very good! Happy Easter!”

CRC Farewells Leanne Ely

Today the CRC staff farewelled Mrs Leanne Ely who has worked in the Student Support Group helping students with special learning needs for over 30 years. As well as her SSG role, Leanne instilled her passion and positive energy to some many school activities including Year 7 Homeroom, Homework club, Swimming team and Theatre Restaurant. Along with Karen Hunter, Mike McGonergal and John McCann who all have recently retired, Leanne was an authentic link to CRC’s rich history in the 1980's.

May you enjoy your retirement Leanne, it is richly deserved!

Best wishes to all CRC families for Easter and the upcoming school holidays

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

As this is our last Newsletter for the term, I would like to wish all families a safe and restful Easter break. Term 1 always seems short but students have experienced many opportunities for learning and other experiences including Camps, Sports days and various excursions.

End of Term 1 / Start of Term 2

Please note a change for the last day of Term 1, Thursday 29th March. We will now finish classes at 2.30pm not 2.40pm as listed in last weeks newsletter as Melton Secondary College (the Bus coordinating school) has changed to an earlier finish time.  All Bacchus Marsh Coaches will arrive basically an hour earlier than Sita Town bus services.

Term 1 Reports and Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Interim Reports will open through our Parent Portal (PAM) this Wednesday, 28th March. If you have any difficulty accessing your Portal, then please contact the College office or email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au

Parent-Student-Teacher interviews will also open on Wedneday and can be booked through the Parent Portal (PAM).  This year we are trialling two afternoon/evening sessions as families found it difficult to attend day sessions.

·         Wednesday, April 18 Interviews: 4pm to 8.30pm.

·         Thursday, April 26 Interviews: 4pm to 7pm.

It is expected that students attend interviews with their parents/guardians.

To access P-S-T Bookings:

·         Log in to PAM

·         At the top you will see the Parent Interviews link (click to enter)

·         Then select your child (if you have more than one, each will be listed separately)

·         Select the subject

·         Choose an available time with that teacher

·         Repeat for each class and child as needed.

·         Use the print icon to print off your interview times.

Booking close Tuesday, 17th April at 4pm.

Term 2 will begin for all students on Monday, 16th April. This will be Day 6 of our timetable.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

School Photos

Full school photos are scheduled for Week 1 Term 2 Thursday, April 19. All students are to be in full winter uniform for the photos. The holiday period will be an opportunity to organise your child’s winter uniform and order photos

As was the case last year ordering of photos is online, http://www.arphotos.com.au/ using the school code: 1804CR238.

Individual class and family photos will be taken on the day.  Details as to how to order photos have been given to students and attached with the newsletter.

There is a range of extra products available ONLINE ONLY

A range of payment options are available online, including ZipPay, so you can order now and pay later!

If paying cash on the day of the photos, it must be the correct amount as the photographers or the school don’t provide change. 

School Uniform – Term 2

As of the start of Term 2, students are required to be wearing their winter uniform, there is no transition period. The requirements are set out clearly in the student diary. It is clearly stated the College Blazer is the external garment to be worn to and from school.  Excuses of leaving the blazer at home or in the locker will not be accepted

The PE uniform is only worn when the student has a timetabled PE or Drama/Dance class, or when otherwise specified by the College Leadership team. The winter PE uniform requires the wearing of the College rugby top or sports jacket as the external garment to school. CRC sport socks are compulsory for all year levels

We look for your support in ensuring your son or daughter is wearing the College uniform correctly to and from school.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal (Students)

CRC Melton-ONLINE LINK-2018.pdf
CRC Melton-ONLINE FLYER-2018.pdf
CRC Melton-FAMILY FLYER-2018.pdf

From the Director of Learning

Literacy at CRC Melton

In 2018, the College is continuing its effort to improve the literacy of all students.  Research shows that students who have strong literacy skills achieve to a higher level than those who struggle to read, comprehend and write. 

This year, the College has employed a speech pathologist named Michelle Eddleston who works at the College every Friday.  Michelle has spent Term 1 reviewing student reports, NAPLAN results, ACER test results and using teacher recommendations to select students from Year 8 who would benefit most from the support of Michelle. If your Year 8 child has been selected, you will receive a Care Monkey Notification in the coming days.

Reading for Pleasure

An effective way to improve your student’s literacy skills is to encourage reading for pleasure. The Easter break is a great time to visit Melton Library and select a variety of reading materials that students can read as part of their break.  We would recommend that every student spend at least 30 minutes each day reading for pleasure.

Have you checked PAM lately?

As we come to the end of Term 1, it is important to ensure that you have checked PAM for any updates on your student’s progress.  Parents will find the mid semester report on PAM, results from academic endeavours in Term 1, letters regarding unsatisfactory performance and N Redemption as well as other information. Please ensure you are checking PAM regularly throughout each term.

Cultural Diversity Week 2018

Cultural diversity week was a huge success last week. Approx. 30 students attended a lunchtime drumming session beating out African sounds and simple songs. On Wednesday we hosted a “Rice around the world” lunch sale – many students and staff came along and purchased the tasty morsels and some sat in the sun while enjoying their lunch. On Thursday there was mask making and on Friday students participated in origami. It was a great week.

From the Social Justice Coordinator

Be a Good Egg during Easter 2018

Children as young as 12 years old are picking cocoa in West Africa to make the chocolate we eat. Some of these children are trafficked.  Most are forced to pick cocoa from an early age for minimal or no wages, for long hours, in dangerous working conditions, without any possibility of attending school.  

Most of these children have never tasted chocolate and they never will.

Chocolate eaters around the world have made a difference already. A decade ago, slavery-free chocolate was hard to find in our shops.

Some successes are:

·         ALDI stock a wide range of UTZ certified Easter chocolate.

·         Cadbury dairy milk chocolate bars made in Australia have been certified Fairtrade.

·         All Mars bars made in Australia are now certified RAINFOREST ALLIANCE

·         All Nestle chocolate made in Australia and New Zealand is now UTZ certified.

·         Haighs source 70% of their cocoa from UTZ certified farms. Their Easter range is 100% certified.

·         For more information about slavery-free chocolate landmarks, the slavery-free certification program, the need for a living wage for cocoa farmers and the treatment of children in chocolate production, read A Matter of Taste.

What You Can Do?

Join with millions of people around the world who now buy and eat only slavery-free chocolate. To buy slavery-free Easter chocolate look for any of these certification labels on the wrappers: FAIRTRADE, Rainforest Alliance and UTZ.

Compassion and Hope

Last Monday a small group of staff and students were privileged to attend a talk by The Honourable Reverend Tim Costello on the topic of Compassion and Hope. The talk covered many issues around the Education of girls, the need to share our gifts given to us by God and the importance of humanity and respect for all. He also shared with us several stories from his travels around the world as the CEO of World Vision.  Each one of us walked away feeling very inspired and motivated.

Tim Costello is an Australian Baptist Minister and was the Chief Advocate of World Vision Australia. In 2008, Tim Costello received an honoray doctorate from Australian Catholic University in recognition of "his contributions to religious life and social justice".

Student thoughts:

“The men had never carried a bucket of water from a well in their lives” emphasised the importance of women in a third world country, particularly in a Patriarchal society, where women’s opinions are not properly valued. The Reverand Tim Costello was telling us this story as a way to explain why societies are often disadvantaged as a result of directions from the men. The wells were put in the wrong place. The charity workers installing the wells should have asked  the opinions of the females in the community.

“All the children that were dying in these third world countries were girls, as families prioritised the wellbeing of the boys”

- Isobell Turnbull

“The future of institutions and global wellbeing lies in the responsibility of our generations”

“Females are the “magic bullet” of the future in which we must educate and empower in order to ensure they have an equal and beneficial future” 

- Rebecca Chin

“When you give a female a job she puts approximately 90% of her earnings back into the family and community”. Tim Costello was trying to emphasise that educating women is extremely important in reducing poverty in third world countries"

“An educated female is likely to have 1.5 less children than an uneducated female hence education for girls is vital”.

Year 8 Humanities – Kryal Castle Excursion

This term we learnt about Medieval History. The year 8’s really enjoyed the Kryal Castle trip and it was my favourite part of the unit. 

I loved learning about medieval life at Kryal Castle, the medicine used and “The Black Death.” It was enjoyable to learn about jousting, crime and punishment and the lifestyle of people living in medieval times.

I believe it is very important to look back on the past and learn about the past to tell everyone how tough life was back then and how today we get clean water and fresh food.  I also believe we should learn about the past life because we could use this information in further times to discover more and more about the medieval times. 

Year 10 History Excursion

On Tuesday 27th March, 43 History students attended an excursion to the Holocaust Museum and HMAS Castlemaine to further extend their study of World War II.

The students were able to meet a survivor, walk through the Museum and were guided through the HMAS Castlemaine.

It was a great day and all staff commented on the respectful behaviour from all students.

Senior Girls Volleyball Team Triumphant

CRC Melton recently competed in the SACCSS Senior Sports Day with outstanding results. Many of the girls had been competing successfully for a number of years in various Volleyball teams, including winning a bronze medal in the Volleyball Victoria School Cup in 2016. In 2017, the Senior Girls lost a heartbreaker by one point in the Semi Final. Little did we realise what the motivation of losing that final meant to the team.

In 2018, the girls were drawn in a very tough group, starting with Marymede. After a nervous start, the girls worked their way on top to earn a comfortable win. The girls scored a dominant win in the 2nd round against Emmanuel.

Up against St Monica’s in the 3rd round, the team produced an outstanding win built on a consistently powerful serving game. This led to a final round showdown with Kolbe where the girls played a very solid all round game to finish the round robin tournament on top in their pool.

The girls looked a little tired and flat against the pumped up MacKillop team, but very gradually, picking each other up along the way, the CRC Melton team worked their way to the front and eventually won the semi final by 2 points.

This led to a rematch with St Monica’s in the Grand Final. From the very first point, our girls took charge of the game.  Their serving was powerful and their desperation to chase down every ball was team lifting. The many hours of training completed over the years was evident in the high skill level shown by all team members.

CRC Melton were deserving undefeated champions, with fine contributions from all team members. One of our leaders, Cheyenne Llanes, was nominated as player of the Grand Final.

Congratulations to all team members who represented CRC Melton in such a wonderful fashion: Natalie Folker, Imogen Goullet, Raelle Grech, Anglena Koj, Cheyenne Llanes, Amberlynn Menezes, Liv Mifsud, Danielle Sultana.

Volleyschool - Expression of Interest

Students are invited to express interest in joining VOLLEYSCHOOL on Tuesday nights during Term 2. VOLLEYSCHOOL is a successful development program that is already running at Maribyrnong Secondary College and Braybrook College.

Western Region Volleyball will provide qualified coaches to develop Volleyball skills for players, referees and coaches.

Details will be provided when numbers and other arrangements are in place but the program is likely to run on Tuesday evenings in the CRC Melton College Hall from 5:00pm – 8:00pm. There will likely be two sessions of 90 minutes each.

You do not need to be participating in any of the Premier League teams to join VOLLEYSCHOOL.

If we can generate sufficient numbers of participants we are hopeful of starting a College competition also run by Western Region Volleyball. For this to happen, we need lots of students to get involved.

Please contact Michael Hill at the College (mhill@crcmelton.com.au) to express your interest in being involved in this program.

Canteen News

Thanks to all staff and students for their support this term. We have had a good uptake of the school community using the online ordering system. It is working well, and we have received lots of positive feedback. If you haven’t logged onto this system yet, you can do so at any time. If ever you have any difficulties either setting up your account or ordering, then contact Ultimate Schools directly on 9020 1473 and they will assist you. Remember, ordering does not have to be done daily, you can pre order your lunches days or weeks ahead!

We will be changing our menu next term to a winter warmer menu. Our most popular lunch items will remain, but we will be introducing some new varieties of foods, such as soups and pastas. So, keep an eye out for these changes.

We are always happy to listen to feedback, so if there are particular menu items that you would like to see added, please feel free to let us know.

Enjoy the holidays and we look forward to seeing you next term.

Confirmation Preparation at CRC Melton

CRC Melton is aware that there are a number of students who may wish to be prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Preparation sessions may be held partly within school time and/or immediately after school at the college.

The preparation classes will be run by Parish priests from St Anthony and St Bernards or Srs Mary Rachel & Anastasia. The candidates will have 8 sessions during 2nd and 3rd terms in time for Confirmation in August. If students from Saint Catherines are interested in receiving any of the Sacraments, please contact the parish office.

If you wish for your son or daughter to be prepared for confirmation please contact Shaun Coates.

scoates@crcmelton.com.au or 8099 6045.

Young Minds Matter - Youth Mental Health Forum

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Melton City Council would like to invite you to the Young Minds Matter - Youth Mental Health Forum for young people aged 12+ and the adults in their lives, to encourage families to talk about mental wellbeing at home.

The free forum on Thursday 19th April from 5:00-8:30pm will feature high profile guest speakers, workshops and local service providers, including former AFL star Wayne Schwass, musician Clare Bowditch, Headspace and Beyondblue.

There will also be dinner and an expo of local mental health services.

For more information please see the flyer or visit https://www.trybooking.com/UPJT to register.

Melton City Council

Youth Mental Health Forum - Flyer A4.pdf

Teenage Holiday Program

Please see attached information on Teenage Holiday Program run by Melton City Council these Easter School Holidays.

Melton City Council

THP Permission Form APRIL 2018.pdf
THP APRIL 2018.pdf

Phillip Island Coastal Discovery Camp - Girls Surf Weekend

Join us for an exciting weekend of surfing and coastal fun on Phillip Island with accomplished and experienced surfer and surf coach Jess Laing. Immerse yourself in our chilled beach lifestyle, where catching waves and enjoying the outdoors is a daily necessity!

Over the course of the weekend, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills and form close friendships, while having the adventure of a lifetime! We’ll teach you how to surf and stay safe in the water, giving you confidence and knowledge you can apply to other areas of your life.

Our expert coaches will provide you with personalised coaching, whether you are a complete beginner or a surfer with an intermediate level of experience looking for some extra tips.

You’ll stay in comfortable dorm-style accommodation, nestled on the coastal cliffs overlooking our beautiful and protected YCW beach, with private beach access and plenty of local wildlife!

Jai Marchinton

Phillip Island Coastal Discovery Camp

Girls Surf Skills Weekend 2018 A4.pdf

Weekly Reflection

We give thanks to you, Lord

We give thanks to you, Lord,
for you have done marvellous things!
When we were walking in darkness
you were there, you were there,
when we were kneeling in weakness
you were there, you were there,
when we drew near feeling worthless
you were there, you were there,
when we were needing forgiveness
you were there, you were there,
when we were searching for your grace
you were there, you were there.
We give thanks to you, Lord,
for you have done marvellous things!

From the Principal

Nic Manyok RIP

On Monday morning I became aware that our former student Nic Manyok (Year 12, 2014) died tragically on the weekend.

Nic belongs to a large family including sibling's Rabica (current Year 11) and Sarah (Year 12, 2017).

The College conducted a Prayer Service at lunchtime on Monday. I extend my deepest condolences to the family and ask for your prayers and support for the Manyok Family.

Funeral details will available in the coming days.

Year 7 Camp

The Year 7's were enthusiastic boarding the bus to camp on Monday morning. We wish all staff and students involved all the best.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Term 1 Reports and Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Interim Reports will open through our Parent Portal next Wednesday, March 28. If you have any difficulty accessing your Portal, please contact the College Office or email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au

Parent-Student-Teacher interviews will also open that day and are booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM).  Interviews take place in Term 2 (April 18 & 26). This year we are trialling two afternoon/evening sessions as families found it difficult to attend day sessions.

·         Wednesday, 18th April: 4:00pm to 8:30pm

·         Thursday, 26th April: 4:00pm to 8:30pm

It is expected that students attend interviews with their parents/guardians.

To access P-S-T Bookings:

·         Log into PAM

·         At the top you will see the Parent Interviews link (click to enter)

·         Then select your child (if you have more than one, each will be listed separately)

·         Select the subject

·         Choose an available time with that teacher

·         Repeat for each class and child as needed.

·         Use the print icon to print off your interview times.

Bookings close Tuesday, 17th April at 4:00pm.

End of Term 1 / Start of Term 2

The last day of Term 1 is Thursday, March 29. We will finish classes at 2:40pm this day and will advise on Buses next week.  At this stage we hope that stand-alone Bacchus Marsh Coaches will be able to arrive early but those connecting to other schools will operate at normal times as will our Sita Town bus services.

Term 2 will begin for all students on Monday, 16th April. This will be Day 6 of our timetable.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

School Photos - 19th April 

Full school photos are scheduled in Week 1 Term 2 April 19. All students are to be in full winter uniform for photos. The holiday period will be an opportunity to organise your child’s winter uniform.

As was the case last year ordering of photos is done online, http://www.arphotos.com.au/ using the school code: 1804CR238. Individual class and family photos will be taken on the day.  Details as to how to order photos will be given to students before the end of this term and attached with the newsletter.

There is a range of extra products available online only.

A range of payment options are available online, including ZipPay, so you can order now and pay later! 

Place your order before 11.59pm on 29th April (after this time a late fee will apply to your order). **Please note, online orders for family photos need to be placed BEFORE photo day.

School Uniform - Term 2

As of the start of Term 2, students are required to be wearing their winter uniform, there is no transition period. As was published in last week’s newsletter, girls will be allowed to wear tailored CRC slacks as part of the winter uniform from 2018 as an alternative to the winter kilt.  The slacks are now available from the uniform shop at a cost of $73 and are made of poly/wool. The requirements are set out clearly below in the student diary. It is clearly stated the College Blazer is the external garment to be worn to and from school.  Excuses of leaving the blazer at home or in the locker will not be accepted.

Girls

Blazer                   Compulsory - It is the required external garment worn to and from school

Winter Kilt            CRC Tartan-length to knees

Tailored Slacks      CRC slacks

Shirt                     White long sleeve shirt with CRC monogram.

Jumper                  Can only be worn to and from the College if under the Blazer

Tie                        The College tie is compulsory

Tights                   Navy Blue

Socks                    Long Navy Blue

Shoes                    Black leather lace up school shoes

Boys

Blazer                       Compulsory- It is the required external garment worn to and from school

Trousers                    Navy Blue with CRC monogram

Shirt                         White long sleeve shirt with CRC monogram.

Jumper                      Can only be worn to and from the College if under the Blazer

Tie                           The College tie is compulsory

Socks                        Navy Blue

Shoes                        Black leather lace up school shoes

The PE uniform is only worn when the student has a timetabled PE or Drama/Dance class, or when otherwise specified by the College Leadership team. The winter PE uniform requires the wearing of the College rugby top or sports jacket as the external garment to school. CRC sport socks are compulsory for all year levels

We look for your support in ensuring your son or daughter is wearing the College uniform correctly to and from school.

Student Absence - Parent Notified Absences

SIMON now has the capacity for you to notify the College of absences through your Parent Access Module PAM account. You enter the student who will be absent on the day, the reason for the absence, the length of absence, and any notes to accompany the PNA. Once added, the notice will automatically load into Simon, and will be dealt with in the appropriate way. Please note that you will have until 8:40am on the day to enter the PNA yourself, after that time you will need to ring the school, as you have done in the past.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal (Students)

CRC Melton-ONLINE LINK-2018.pdf
CRC Melton-ONLINE FLYER-2018.pdf
CRC Melton-FAMILY FLYER-2018.pdf

World Harmony Day - Special Lunch Menu

Tomorrow is World Harmony Day. As a way to celebrate the day, the Hospitality class and Social Justice team is holding a special lunch sale. The theme is Rice Around the World.  Fried Rice, Rice paper rolls, Arancini balls and Chicken Satay with rice. The food will be available at the food room until sold out.

Marg Rowe-Watts

Social Justice Coordinator

menu.pdf

Student Leaders for Gender Equality and Respect

I am delighted to announce that Rebecca Chin, Social Justice Captain, has been chosen to join the Student Leaders for Gender Equality and Respect (SLFGER) group, run by the Department of Education in 2018. Students involved in the program will provide a voice into the SLFGER on student views and priorities, model leadership and advocate on equality and respect within their school or community. Rebecca will be working alongside senior leaders from the Department of Education, Catholic Education Council of Victorian (CECV),  Independent Schools Victorian (ISV), and school principals from across the three education sectors and will meet four times throughout the year. Congratulations Rebecca.

Archbishop’s Conversation with Student Leaders

On Thursday 8th of March, CRC’s College Captains, Ethan Trethowan and Madalyn McGill, had the opportunity to attend the annual Archbishop’s Conversation with Student Leaders at Caroline Chisholm Catholic College. This gathering brought together senior student leaders from Catholic Secondary schools across Victoria to reflect on their roles as young Catholic Leaders today. This year’s conversation was centred on the theme of ‘Opening new horizons for spreading joy’, which  was taken from  2018’s ‘Year of Youth’. The College Captains were able to partake in small group activities with leaders from other schools to reflect on how they can spread joy and engage young people in their faith within their school communities. The day concluded with an open “Q and A” forum with Archbishop Denis Hart, who welcomed any questions from the student leaders. The College Captains thoroughly enjoyed their experience discussing leadership with student leaders from around Victoria and hope to incorporate their new insights into the school community.

Confirmation Preparation at CRC Melton

CRC Melton is aware that there are a number of students who may wish to be prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Preparation sessions may be held partly within school time and/or immediately after school at the college.

The preparation classes will be run by Parish priests from St Anthony and St Bernards or Srs Mary Rachel & Anastasia. The candidates will have 8 sessions during 2nd and 3rd terms in time for Confirmation in August. If students from Saint Catherine are interested in receiving any of the Sacraments, please contact the parish office.

If you wish for your son or daughter to be prepared for confirmation please contact Shaun Coates.

scoates@crcmelton.com.au or 8099 6045.

Community Road Safety Program

Learn more about road rules and the effects of road trauma including serious injury and fatal collisions.

The information provided in this forum will be about the impact of road trauma on our community and may be confronting.

There are FREE professional driving lessons up for grabs for attendees. Please see attached flyer for information.

Melton City Council

Safety Flyer.pdf

Phillip Island Coastal Discovery Camp - Girls Surf Weekend

Join us for an exciting weekend of surfing and coastal fun on Phillip Island with accomplished and experienced surfer and surf coach Jess Laing. Immerse yourself in our chilled beach lifestyle, where catching waves and enjoying the outdoors is a daily necessity!

Over the course of the weekend, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills and form close friendships, while having the adventure of a lifetime! We’ll teach you how to surf and stay safe in the water, giving you confidence and knowledge you can apply to other areas of your life.

Our expert coaches will provide you with personalised coaching, whether you are a complete beginner or a surfer with an intermediate level of experience looking for some extra tips.

You’ll stay in comfortable dorm-style accommodation, nestled on the coastal cliffs overlooking our beautiful and protected YCW beach, with private beach access and plenty of local wildlife!

Jai Marchinton

Phillip Island Coastal Discovery Camp

Girls Surf Skills Weekend 2018 A4.pdf

Teenage Holiday Program

Please see attached information on Teenage Holiday Program run by Melton City Council these Easter School Holidays.

Melton City Council

THP APRIL 2018.pdf
THP Permission Form APRIL 2018.pdf

Young Minds Matter - Youth Mental Health Forum

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

Melton City Council would like to invite you to the Young Minds Matter - Youth Mental Health Forum for young people aged 12+ and the adults in their lives, to encourage families to talk about mental wellbeing at home.

The free forum on Thursday 19th April from 5:00-8:30pm will feature high profile guest speakers, workshops and local service providers, including former AFL star Wayne Schwass, musician Clare Bowditch, Headspace and Beyondblue.

There will also be dinner and an expo of local mental health services.

For more information please see the flyer or visit https://www.trybooking.com/UPJT to register.

Melton City Council

Youth Mental Health Forum - Flyer A4.pdf

St Dominics Market Day

Please see attached information on the Twilight Market Day to be held this Friday 23rd March at St Dominics Primary School, Melton.

St Dominics Primary School

MARKET FLYER ORIGINAL 2018.pdf

Weekly Reflection

St Patrick’s Prayer

As I arise today,
may the strength of God pilot me,
the power of God uphold me,
the wisdom of God guide me.
May the eye of God look before me,
the ear of God hear me,
the word of God speak for me.
May the hand of God protect me,
the way of God lie before me,
the shield of God defend me,
the host of God save me.
May Christ shield me today.
Christ with me, Christ before me,
Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me,
Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit,
Christ when I stand,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
Amen.

From the Principal

Camp Program

I had the chance to drop in on our Year 9's as they were heavily engaged in their Camp on Monday afternoon. Activities included the Flying Fox, Rock Climbing, Abseiling, and Canoeing to name but a few.

These activities, along with the Surfing undertaken by the Year 8's last week, give the students a chance to learn skills that they won’t learn in the classroom.

According to by Melbourne Child Psychology & School Psychology Services, Port Melbourne, school Camps in the early years of secondary school have five key benefits:

1. Development of social skills

School camp is a great opportunity to develop a range of social skills. Most activities at camp involve team work, which is great to strengthen established friendships and also to develop new friendships by connecting with children they don’t regularly talk with at school.

Through bonding activities, children develop supportive relationships not only with different children, but also with their teachers. At camp, children have the opportunity to learn about acceptance, caring and understanding.

2. Development of independence skills

For many children school camp is their first time away from family and home for a few nights. Parents are not there to remind their kids to eat their vegetables, brush their teeth, or to have a shower.

Therefore, this is a great opportunity for kids to grow up by learning how take care of themselves and to do things on their own. Most kids do rise to the challenge and learn to rely on themselves when they spend time away from home.

3. Development of decision-making skills

Should I go with my friends or should I do the activity I really want to do? Should I have the third slice of pizza? Should I stay up or go to bed? Supervising teachers are not able to hover over each child all the time, so at camp, children are responsible for making more of their own choices.

4. Increased environmental awareness

During camp, children are exposed to authentic nature-based experiences. Hands-on activities in the outdoors stimulate all senses and facilitate learning. Children become more aware of the environment, develop outdoor skills and appreciation for nature.

5. Learning new skills

At school camp, children will be exposed to a range of activities that they may not have tried before. When away from their parents, children are often more adventurous and willing to try new things.

From the Deputy Principal

School Photos - Thursday 19th April, 2018 (*Please note earlier date)

Full school photos are scheduled for Week 1, Term 2 on Thursday 19th April. All students are to be in full Winter uniform for the photos. The holiday period will be an opportunity to organise your child’s Winter uniform.

As was the case last year, ordering of photos is completed online. Details as to how to order photos will be given to students before the end of this term.

Uniform Update

The decision was made late last year across the Federation Schools to allow girls to wear tailored CRC slacks as part of the winter uniform from 2018, as an alternative to the winter kilt. Slacks are now available from the uniform shop at a cost of $73 and are made of poly/wool. College shorts will be available in Term 4 as an option for the girls summer uniform.

Year 9 Rite Journey Camp

The Year 9 students went on their Rite Journey Camp last week, divided into gendered groups as part of the Rite Journey Program. The girls went to Halls Gap and the boys to Rose’s Gap. In each location, the students engaged in activities that helped build trust and connections to the other students in their Rite Journey Groups, and with their Rite Journey teacher. The aim of the program is to build respectful and resilient teenagers, and help them in their transition from childhood to adulthood. A pivotal element of this is being comfortable with those around them so that they can share, learn and grow. The camp was a great way for students to work with others and develop relationships so that the program can be successful this year.

Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) Survey

I write to invite you to participate in the ECSI survey which will assist us in better understanding how our Catholic Identity is expressed in work and practice here at Catholic Regional College, Melton

The Catholic University in Leuven, was commissioned by the Catholic Education Commission of Victoria Ltd (CECV) to design a process and tools, based on sound research, to accomplish the goal of understanding our current Catholic identity and where the school community might like to see it in the future.

This survey is a key element in this process and I write to request your participation.  The online survey gathers responses from students in 7 to 12, all staff, and a representative sample of parents.

The survey is only available through the project website; please refer to the following instructions:

Log into the following site:  www.schoolidentity.net and

>enter password: Ghj654

>TO THE SURVEYS

>NEW USER

>Select the group you belong to: Select CRC Melton from the list  (or use group entry code-R69GT2)

You are now logged in.

Keeping a record of your individual User code and Password will allow you to complete the survey over two or more sessions.

Your responses to this survey are guaranteed to be kept anonymous.

If you have any questions, please contact me through the school office.

Thank you for your consideration of this request and for your anticipated participation.

CRC Melton 2019 European Tour Information Evening

There will be an information evening for families who are attending the 2019 European Tour at 7:00pm on the 21st of March, in the PAC.

There will be a number of items of paperwork handed out at this meeting. Could you please bring your child’s passport with you.

If you have any questions you would like addressed, please email Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au) and we will be happy to address them.

'Rise' Catholic Youth Festival

“Rise”, a Catholic youth festival will be held on Saturday 17th March 2018 at Mount St. Joseph Girls' College, Altona.  This is one of the main events celebrating the Year of Youth on an Archdiocesan level and we celebrate it on the feast of St Patrick, our Archdiocesan patron saint. 

“Rise” aims to empower young people to deepen their relationship with Jesus, discover and celebrate the life of Catholic faith, and be disciples in the world as vital members of the Catholic Church.  It is for young people from year 9 to the age of 30.

“Rise” will gather an impressive line-up of inspiring speakers from all around Australia to break open a wide range of topics. There will also be live music, creative spaces, interactive exhibitions, sports and entertainment and prayer experiences.

Shaun Coates

RE Coordinator

Rise2018 Flyer (2).jpg

Confirmation Preparation at CRC Melton

CRC Melton is aware that there are a number of students who may wish to be prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Preparation sessions may be held partly within school time and/or immediately after school at the college.

The preparation classes will be run by our parish priests or Srs Mary Rachel & Anastasia. The candidates will have 8 sessions during 2^nd and 3^rd terms in time for Confirmation in August.

If you wish for your son or daughter to be prepared for confirmation please contact Shaun Coates.

scoates@crcmelton.com.au or 8099 6045.

Weekly Reflection

Jesus, The Teacher
He never taught a lesson in a classroom...
He had no tools to work with, no blackboards, maps or charts...
He used no subject outlines, kept no records, gave no grades,
and His only text was ancient and well worn.
His students were the poor, the lame, the deaf, the blind, the outcast...
And His method was the same with all who came to hear and learn...
He opened eyes to faith...
He opened ears with simple truth...
And opened hearts with love, a love born of forgiveness...
A gentle man, a humble man,
He asked and won no honours, no gold awards of tribute to His expertise
Or wisdom...
And yet this quiet teacher from the hills of Galilee has fed the needs,
Fulfilled the hopes, and changed the lives of many millions...
For what He taught, brought heaven to earth and God's heart to mankind.

From the Principal

Last Friday afternoon, the office was contacted to say there was a public affray at Woodgrove Shopping Centre and several CRC students were in the vicinity.

John Christie, Rob Blackley and myself attended the shopping centre and spoke with our students present to see if they were safe, which they were.

I observed a high volume of police in attendance on Friday afternoon, and they restored immediate order to the environment.

Parents may want to reinforce with their children who use public transport in that vicinity to quickly transition through the area and not linger unintentionally at the shops.

From the Deputy Principal

Camp

Reviews have been very positive for Year 8 Camps. Thank you to all students and staff involved.

The Year 9 Gadal RITE Journey camps are currently occuring with students returning Wednesday 7th March.

Year 7 camps will take place during the week of 20 – 24 March.

All families would have received CareMonkey notifications regarding these events.

Evacuation Drill

As part of the College’s Emergency Management Plan, we will run an Evacuation Drill on the afternoon of Tuesday 13th March. Please note that during the drill access to the College will be restricted and students will not be permitted to leave the grounds.

Labour Day Holiday

Next Monday, 12th March is the Labour Day holiday. The College will be closed.

End of Term Dates

Classes will finish on Thursday 29th March at 2.40pm. Bacchus Marsh Coaches will supply buses that are not connected to other schools to coincide with the earlier finish but SITA (Town) buses and other Bacchus Marsh Coaches will run on normal times.

From the Director of Learning

Dear Parents/Carers,

As you would be well aware, life is all about deadlines.  The bills and mortgage repayments are due by a certain date, a plane or train will leave at a specified time whether you are on it or not, dentist and doctor’s appointments are often lost if you are late and work tasks must be completed by a time specified by your employer.  All essential tasks in life, all needing to meet a deadline set by someone else.

At CRC Melton there is an expectation that students will achieve to their potential. Part of achieving one’s best is to meet the set deadline as is required in all aspects of our lives. To support students in the development of the skills required to prioritise tasks, to research and study effectively and most importantly, to maintain a home study program that results in timely submission of all tasks, I have included the Assessment work flow charts in this newsletter.  These charts are for all students in Year 7 to 10 and clearly outline the action steps for when a student does not meet the deadline for homework tasks and major assessment tasks.

Please note that the College understands that unexpected events will hinder home study at times, hence the option to seek an extension on the due date is encouraged.  An extension will be granted if the student has a note from home or appropriate documentation, however the student must also be clear that an extension will not be granted if they have not used their time appropriately or prioritised the task. 

We ask that all parents/carers familiarize themselves with the charts and discuss it with their student.  We thank you in advance for your efforts in encouraging your student to achieve their best and for your support in supervising your students program of home study each night.

Parent Access Module (PAM)

Have you checked PAM this week?  Parents/carers should be logging into PAM at least weekly to access your students’ results and feedback on each task. Parents/Carers will also have access to academic reports, homework and letters, such as the unsatisfactory performance letter, on this system.  Please note that letters will not be posted home and must be accessed through PAM.  If you are experiencing difficulties logging on to PAM, please contact the IT department at the College.

Narelle Layton

Director of Learning

2018 Homework Tasks Year 7 to 10.pdf
2018 Major Assessment Tasks Yr7 to 10.pdf

Year 8 Camp

Year 8 camps were a great success last week with students going to Anglesea in their homeroom groups. The students participated in surfing, stand up paddle boarding, a high ropes course and beach games. Our year 8's worked really well together which made the camp an extremely positive experience for all.

Social Justice News

Thanks for last year

I would like to thank everyone in our community for the amazing effort last year with donations of gifts and money for the Wishing tree hampers. We managed to send out hampers to approximately 15 families and also supported St. Vincent De Paul, McAuley Women’s Services and the Lost Dogs home with an enormous amount of gifts and money. Our Community is so generous when the need arises. Thank you and God Bless.

Collections

The senior students and staff will be participating in the St. Vincent De Paul soup van this year. This Activity is about developing empathy and walking alongside those in our community who are doing it “tough”. The students travel around Melbourne in the evening with St. Vinnies, providing food and donations to those experiencing homelessness. St. Vinnies requires us to bring along donations of toiletries, coats, blankets, hats and back packs. Donations can be left at the office or in the Yr 12 corridor collection point.  Donations can include: socks ( mens and womens), underwear ( a range of sizes for both genders), toothbrushes, toothpaste and holders, soap holders, tissues, roll on deodorants and spray deodorants, sanitary items, band aids, razors, shaving cream, coats, hoodies, beanies, blankets, runners, toiletry bags and backpacks.

Cultural Diversity Week

Cultural Diversity week runs from March 19^th - 23^rd with World Harmony day Wednesday 21^st March. This year the team will be hosting a number of events during the week to celebrate our diversity and all that makes us “wonderful”.

Luncheon

Many conversations are had when we are sharing a meal together and many friendships are established. This year we are hoping to hold a “cultural diversity” luncheon sale. The aim is to provide foods from various cultures for sale, prepared by our families with love. I am wanting people to contact me if you are interested in helping out. You can help out in many ways; bake some food at home and bring it to school Wednesday morning (ingredients must be labelled). OR// bake the food at home, deliver it to school and help with the selling of it and/or come and tell us a story about the food that you have prepared. To ensure Health and safety standards are met, I ask that the food be meat free and delivered to the food room in the morning. Please contact me if you intend to make some food for sale or if you want to help out on the day. mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au

Video

The team are putting together a video featuring our students and their stories. Anyone willing to share their story is asked to contact myself or Rebecca Chin. The video hopes to highlight the cultural backgrounds of our community, how and when the families arrived in Australia, celebrations and a fun fact about the Culture. We want others to learn something about us and our cultural heritage.

Songs and dances from around the world

Can you or do you know of anyone who does cultural dancing or sings songs associated with another country? Can you sing your national anthem? We would love you to participate in our week of activities.

Flags

We would love to have a display of different flags for Cultural Diversity week. Please contact me on the above email address if you have one that we can use for the week.

World day of Prayer

Sr Mary Rachel attended Melton’s Anglican Church with some students last Friday to participate in World Day of Prayer.

Year 7 Immunisations

Last Friday, all Year 7 students were issued with this years immunisation cards which are issued by the Melton City Council. They need to be returned to the college by Thursday 8^th of March as the first round of immunisations will take place at the college on Tuesday the 13^th of March in the Performing Arts Centre during periods 2 & 3.

All Year 7 students are required to wear there PE uniform on the day to assist the council nurses in administering the injections.

If your child did not receive, or misplaced their card, please go to the student office to collect another one.

CRC Melton 2019 European Tour

There are a small number of places available for students currently in Years 8 - 11 for the 2019 European Tour, in April, 2019. 

The tour will travel to Poland, with a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Oscar Schindler's factory and a bike tour of Krakow the main activities. From there, Italy, where the students will visit Venice, stay with families from our sister school in Cividale, hike through parts of the Cinque Terra, experience the art, shopping and food of Florence, have cooking lessons in the countryside and take in the sights of Rome such as the Colosseum, St Peter's and the Sistine Chapel.

The cost of the tour is around $6,500, with all flights, accomodations, breakfasts, transfers, entry into museums and guides included.

If you are interested in your child attending, please contact Mr Paul Iannazzo at piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au.

Dinka Information Afternoon

An Information session will be held for Dinka speaking families. 

Date: Thursday 15th March 2018

Time: 4.30pm-6.00pm

Place: Performing Arts Centre (PAC) at Catholic Regional College Melton

Who: Dinka speaking families of students in years 7-12

Confirmation Preparation at CRC Melton

CRC Melton is aware that there are a number of students who may wish to be prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Preparation sessions may be held partly within school time and/or immediately after school at the college.

The preparation classes will be run by our parish priests or Srs Mary Rachel & Anastasia. The candidates will have 8 sessions during 2^nd and 3^rd terms in time for Confirmation in August.

If you wish for your son or daughter to be prepared for confirmation please contact Shaun Coates.

scoates@crcmelton.com.au or 8099-6045.

Gastroenteritis Outbreak

There has been an outbreak of gastroenteritis at the school (vomiting and/or diarrhoea and fever). If your child displays any symptoms please keep them home from school. Students with confirmed gastroenteritis are to be kept away from school a further 24 hours after their symptoms have ceased. We appreciate your cooperation in halting the spread of this illness.

Please see attached fact sheet for more information.

Michelle Molnar

First Aid Attendant

gastroenteritis fact sheet.pdf

'Rise' Catholic Youth Festival

“Rise”, a Catholic youth festival will be held on Saturday 17th March 2018 at Mount St. Joseph Girls' College, Altona.  This is one of the main events celebrating the Year of Youth on an Archdiocesan level and we celebrate it on the feast of St Patrick, our Archdiocesan patron saint. 

“Rise” aims to empower young people to deepen their relationship with Jesus, discover and celebrate the life of Catholic faith, and be disciples in the world as vital members of the Catholic Church.  It is for young people from year 9 to the age of 30.

“Rise” will gather an impressive line-up of inspiring speakers from all around Australia to break open a wide range of topics. There will also be live music, creative spaces, interactive exhibitions, sports and entertainment and prayer experiences.

Shaun Coates

RE Coordinator

Rise2018 Flyer (2).jpg

Community Road Safety Forum

Learn more about road rules and the effects of road trauma including serious injury and fatal collisions.

The information provided in this forum will be about the impact of road trauma on our community and may be confronting.

There are FREE professional driving lessons up for grabs for attendees. Please see attached flyer for information.

Melton City Council

Safety Flyer.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Jesus, The Teacher
He never taught a lesson in a classroom...
He had no tools to work with, no blackboards, maps or charts...
He used no subject outlines, kept no records, gave no grades,
and His only text was ancient and well worn.
His students were the poor, the lame, the deaf, the blind, the outcast...
And His method was the same with all who came to hear and learn...
He opened eyes to faith...
He opened ears with simple truth...
And opened hearts with love, a love born of forgiveness...
A gentle man, a humble man,
He asked and won no honours, no gold awards of tribute to His expertise
Or wisdom...
And yet this quiet teacher from the hills of Galilee has fed the needs,
Fulfilled the hopes, and changed the lives of many millions...
For what He taught, brought heaven to earth and God's heart to mankind

From the Principal

House Swimming Carnival

We had it all last Tuesday at Melton Waves- beautiful weather, Year 12 students in colourful costume, and a terrific spirit amongst all students, staff and parents present. Well done to our Year 12 leaders who set the pattern for the day. Congratulations to Glasheen House who reigned supreme!

Parents and Friends Meeting

Our first meeting for 2018 is being held tomorrow night, Wednesday February 28. All parents and guardians are most welcome.

I plan to host a short school tour of the College at the commencement of the meeting.

Relay for Life

Last weekend, a number of Senior Students participated in Relay for Life and to date have raised $8,700 for the Victorian Cancer Council. A special mention to Boden Mugridge who coordinated the event.

From the Deputy Principal

Information Evenings

Thank you to all parents/guardians who attended our Year 12 Information Evening. Our numbers at our session were lower than expected, so we invite feedback as to factors that may have prevented parents/guardians from attending.

Camps

Our Year 8 camps begin and finish this week and Year 9 Gadal RITE Journey camps (boys and girls) will take place next Monday (5th March) to Wednesday (7th March). All families would have received CareMonkey notifications for these events.

From the Director of Learning

The ATAR or Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank is the number that determines a Year 12 student’s entry into university. Students who complete scored VCE studies will receive their ATAR (out of 100) in the December of their Year 12 study.  Speaking in very rough terms, the ATAR number scored by a student is the percentage of students they did better than in the state.  For example, if a student got an ATAR score of 90, it roughly means they did better than 90% of the students in the state.  So how do students get the best ATAR score that they can?

The achievement of an ATAR that reflects the student’s best effort is the result of many things- careful preparation for their Year 12 year starting in Year 7, choosing the correct course and subjects, academic talent, work ethic, home study and a consistent program of regular revision throughout the year.  Students must take advantage of every learning opportunity at CRC Melton and plan to develop the skills they require to cope with the academic rigour of a scored VCE pathway starting at Year 7.

Upon speaking with Year 12 high achievers over the years, it is always apparent how important regular revision and home study has been in the achievement of their success.  It is an expectation of the College that students complete the following amount of home study:

• Year 7                   45 minutes (5 evenings per week)
• Year 8                   60 minutes (5 evenings per week)
• Year 9                   75 minutes (5 evenings per week)
• Year 10                 90 minutes (6 evenings per week)
• Year 11                 120 to 150 minutes (6 evenings per week)
• Year 12                 at least 150 to 180 minutes (6 evenings per week)

So how does at home study relate to the ATAR?  At home study is where students consolidate their learning; embedding the skills and knowledge learnt in class that day and relating this knowledge to the assessment in that subject.  It is where students make study notes, memorise facts, read texts, complete exercises and past exam questions and compile lists of queries to ask their teachers.  VCE high achievers around the state are always the students who have a program of regular revision.  It is generally accepted that the relationship between the ATAR score a student achieves and the hours of home study they complete in Year 12 follows the rough pattern:

• 1 hour of home study per night will provide possibility for the student to score an ATAR of about 20.
• 1.5 hours of home study per night will provide possibility for the student to score an ATAR of about 30.
• 2 hours of home study per night will provide possibility for the student to score an ATAR of about 40.
• 2.5 hours of home study per night will provide possibility for the student to score an ATAR of between 50 and 60.
• 3 hours of home study per night will provide possibility for the student to score an ATAR of about 70.
• 3.5 hours of home study per night will provide possibility for the student to score an ATAR of 80 or above.

I encourage all parents and guardians to speak with their student about their ATAR goal.  Are they meeting the home study requirement in the year level they are currently in?  Is their home study honest preparation for the hours required in Year 12?  Are they choosing subjects that are realistic for their academic ability?

Year 7 2020 Enrolments

The enrolment process for Year 7 2020 is now open and will close on 3rd August 2018. Enrolment packs will be delivered to all Year 5 students in our feeder Catholic primary schools and will be available on request to parents from other Catholic parishes and other school settings. Letters of offers will be mailed to the student’s residential address by Friday 19th October 2018. 

Application forms will be available from the College from Monday 19th February 2018. 

Applications for Year 7 2020 close on 3rd August 2018. The application must be returned with a photocopy of the child’s Birth certificate, Baptism certificate and an application fee of $50. 

Families who do not have a child attending the College will be required to attend a College Tour and will be interviewed by a senior staff member at a later date.

All families will be required to attend an interview with their Parish Priest. Families who belong to the Parish of Melton are required to contact the Parish office. Families from the Parishes of Bacchus Marsh and Melton South will be contacted by the Parish office.

Applicants are notified by mail of the result of their application by Friday 19th October 2018.

Families wishing to accept the offer are required to confirm their acceptance by completing the Enrolment form and returning it to the College with a $100 deposit which is deducted from the first term fees. This deposit is non-refundable. The paperwork and deposit needs to be returned by Friday 2nd November 2018.

CRC Melton 2019 European Tour

There are a small number of places available for students currently in Years 8 - 11 for the 2019 European Tour, in April, 2019. 

The tour will travel to Poland, with a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Oscar Schindler's factory and a bike tour of Krakow the main activities. From there, Italy, where the students will visit Venice, stay with families from our sister school in Cividale, hike through parts of the Cinque Terra, experience the art, shopping and food of Florence, have cooking lessons in the countryside and take in the sights of Rome such as the Colosseum, St Peter's and the Sistine Chapel.

The cost of the tour is around $6,500, with all flights, accomodations, breakfasts, transfers, entry into museums and guides included.

If you are interested in your child attending, please contact Mr Paul Iannazzo at piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au.

CSEF – Camps, Sports & Education Fund

If you applied for the CSEF at your child's school in 2017, you do not need to complete an application form in 2018 unless there has been a change in your family circumstances. Your child's school will apply for the CSEF on your behalf.

You will only need to submit an application form in 2018 if any of the following changes have occurred:

• new student enrolments: your child has started or changed schools in 2018 or you did not apply at the same school in 2017 or
• changed family circumstances: such as a change of custody, change of name, concession card number, or new siblings commencing at the school in 2018.

Schools are able to accept and process applications up until the end of term two each year.

CSEF payments are made to schools from March onwards each year.

  http://www.education.vic.gov.au/Documents/about/programs/health/csefapplicationform.pdf

Eligibility

On the first day of term one (29 January 2018) or the first day of term two (18 April 2018), a parent or legal guardian of a student must:

be an eligible beneficiary of one of these cards:

• Veterans Affairs Gold Card
• Centrelink Health Care Card
• Pensioner Concession Card

OR they must be a

 temporary foster parent

OR the student is

16 years or older and holds a valid concession card (such as a Youth Allowance Health Care Card)

Parents who receive a carer allowance on behalf of a child, or any other benefit or allowance not income tested by Centrelink, are not eligible for the CSEF unless they also comply with the above.

If the eligible card is in the name of the student, the fund is only granted to that student, not their siblings.

Special consideration is given to:

• Families on a bridging visa, temporary protection visa, are in community detention or are asylum seeker families
• Students in out of home care
• Students in statutory kinship car

Canteen News

Canteen W5 Update.pdf

'Rise' Catholic Youth Festival

“Rise”, a Catholic youth festival will be held on Saturday 17th March 2018 at Mount St. Joseph Girls' College, Altona.  This is one of the main events celebrating the Year of Youth on an Archdiocesan level and we celebrate it on the feast of St Patrick, our Archdiocesan patron saint. 

“Rise” aims to empower young people to deepen their relationship with Jesus, discover and celebrate the life of Catholic faith, and be disciples in the world as vital members of the Catholic Church.  It is for young people from year 9 to the age of 30.

“Rise” will gather an impressive line-up of inspiring speakers from all around Australia to break open a wide range of topics. There will also be live music, creative spaces, interactive exhibitions, sports and entertainment and prayer experiences. 

Shaun Coates

RE Coordinator

Rise2018 Flyer (2).jpg

CAFS Kinship Carer Group

Kinship Care is when children and young people are cared for by Siblings, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles or friends of the family, when the children's parents are unable to care for them.

Parents may be unable to care for their children due to: mental illness, difficulties managing alcohol & drug use, homelessness or domestic violence.

Please see attached file for when the Kinship Group meets and further information.

NL.pdf

2018 Bacchus Marsh EasterFest

Over the last 3 years Bacchus Marsh EasterFest has donated $13,024.88 to Bacchus Marsh & Melton Regional Hospital Urgent Care Department. We will again be donating 100% of net proceeds to the Urgent Care department.

Please see attached flyer for more information.

EasterFest 2018.jpg

Weekly Reflection

Lent is a time when we prepare as a faith community to meet the risen Christ at Easter.  It is a time for us to turn away from what keeps us from living the Gospel, and to remind ourselves that we are called to live lives based on justice. To be just in the biblical sense is to be in right relationship with God.  As we prepare to meet Christ in his resurrected glory, we pray for a change of heart towards greater love of God and each other and we share our food, our wealth and our time with others in need.  

God of love and truth, you called us forth from the dust of earth and claimed us for Christ in the waters of baptism. Look upon us as we enter these forty days bearing the mark of ashes.

Bless us on our journey through Lent to the waters of rebirth.

May our fasting be a hunger for justice; our alms, a making of peace; our prayer, the chant of humble and grateful hearts.

All that we do and pray is in the name of Jesus, for in his cross you proclaim your love now and forever. Amen

From the Principal

How to support your child making a good start to the school year

A lot of our focus at CRC Melton has been on students making a good start to their school year. For Year 11 and 12 students the 2018 school year started last year with their ‘Jumpstart’ program, and on February 1st they heard all about motivation, goal setting and resilence.

Our Year 7s also started classes a day earlier to give them a chance to transition smoothly into secondary school. All Year Level Coordinators have held assemblies to gather their cohorts together to inspire them at the start of their 2018 school journey. How can families support their kids to make a great start to their school year? Many articles have been written over the years by authors such as Andrew Fuller (www.andrewfuller.com.au). Here are my five tips to parents:

1. Six weeks is a proven time frame! If you can get your kids into a routine for six weeks, they can do it for a year. In the adult world think of Quit campaign, fitness programs, learning new skills at work etc. If you can get into a healthy routine for six weeks, you are well on the way to a great year.

2. Children need quality sleep- eight hours minimum! - no computer screens or smart phones in bedrooms. See website- https://www.sciencenews.org/blog/growth-curve/ban-screens-bedrooms-may-save-kids-sleep. Your home internet can be turned off at a certain time each night which many families may find helpful. https://www.shieldyourbody.com/2017/02/turn-off-your-wifi-router-at-night/         

3. Children need to eat breakfast each day- some kids skip breakfast which is not good at all, as a lack of protein can cause low energy, headaches and problems with concentration.

4. Physical movement, play and recreation are all very important for students of all ages- getting the blood flowing helps your motivation and your concentration when you get back to study. Certainly, going for a 30 minute walk this morning helped me when it came to sitting down to write this article!

5. Homework and revision will depend on the year level. As a general guide, Year 7s should be doing 15 minutes of Homework per subject per night. Overall guidelines:

• Year 7s-45 minutes (5 evenings per week)
• Year 8s–60 minutes (5 evenings per week)
• Year 9s -75 minutes (5 evenings per week)
• Year 10s - 90 minutes (6 evenings per week)
• Year 11s- 120 to 150 minutes (6 evenings per week)
• Year 12s - 150 to 180 minutes (6 evenings per week)

From the Deputy Principal

Information Evenings

We continue with information evenings for selected year levels. Year 12 Information evening will be held this Thursday in the PAC.

Year 9 – 12 Subject Changes

Year 9 - 12 students should have completed any necessary changes with their studies. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, there will be no more changes permitted. Year 9 & 10 students will be able to enquire about changes to their Semester 2 electives at the end of next term.

Camps

Year level camps begin on 26th February with the Year 8 Camp. All families would have received CareMonkey notifications of these events.

'Rise' Catholic Youth Festival

“Rise”, a Catholic youth festival will be held on Saturday 17th March 2018 at Mount St. Joseph Girls' College, Altona.  This is one of the main events celebrating the Year of Youth on an Archdiocesan level and we celebrate it on the feast of St Patrick, our Archdiocesan patron saint. 

“Rise” aims to empower young people to deepen their relationship with Jesus, discover and celebrate the life of Catholic faith, and be disciples in the world as vital members of the Catholic Church.  It is for young people from year 9 to the age of 30.

“Rise” will gather an impressive line-up of inspiring speakers from all around Australia to break open a wide range of topics. There will also be live music, creative spaces, interactive exhibitions, sports and entertainment and prayer experiences. 

Shaun Coates

RE Coordinator

Rise2018 Flyer (2).jpg

Relay for Life

This coming Saturday, February 24th and Sunday 25th February, a team of 70 senior school students will be representing the college by participating in the Cancer Council Melton Relay For Life at Tabcorp Park alongside 10 other passionate teams.

The 24-hour event, which requires at least one team member to always be walking laps of the Tabcorp Park race track with a baton, aims to raise much needed funds and awareness for cancer in the community.  

Last year the school’s team raised just over $4000 with its team of 26 and we are pleased to announce that we have already raised in excess of $5300. Woohoo!!

Anyone who wishes to donate to this wonderful cause can click on the link below or type into their browser. Any donation is greatly appreciated.

http://fundraising.cancer.org.au/site/TR/RelayforLife/

Everyone is welcome to attend the event for any period of time across the weekend to support the college team and this important cause.

Important Event times

4pm Saturday- Event opening 

8pm Saturday- Candlelight Ceremony

10:30pm-12:30am Saturday- CRCs 'DJ Mugga' Performing 

10am Sunday- Closing Ceremony and presentations 

We look forward to the event and hope to see you there.

Year 9 Mathematics

Welcome back to all students in preparation for another year ahead in Mathematics. 

Thankyou to all parents and students for your patience on the distribution of the pre ordered (and paid) Texas Instruments TI-nspire CX CAS calculators last week. The calculators were not able to be distributed at the beginning of the year since the delivery had not yet arrived. If your child still has not received their calculator please do not hesitate to contact me via email at snuspan@crcmelton.com.au.

LOTE News

Welcome to the new school year - BENTORNATI.

We have a new club which was launched last week at school known as MAD 4 Languages. This is an opportunity for students to engage in fun Italian and Indonesian activities and it is also where students are able to gain assistance in Languages beyond the classroom.

A big thank you to Louise Crocitti, our new Italian teacher, who is facilitating this new initiative along with the Languages Team. We look forward to seeing you every Day 4 on a Thursday at lunchtime. Students are also encouraged to use Education Perfect at home for at least half an hour a week. New parents to our school, please ask your Year 7 students to show you how this exciting Languages app works.

Weekly Reflection

Lent is a time when we prepare as a faith community to meet the risen Christ at Easter.  It is a time for us to turn away from what keeps us from living the Gospel, and to remind ourselves that we are called to live lives based on justice. To be just in the biblical sense is to be in right relationship with God.  As we prepare to meet Christ in his resurrected glory, we pray for a change of heart towards greater love of God and each other and we share our food, our wealth and our time with others in need. 

God of love and truth, you called us forth from the dust of earth and claimed us for Christ in the waters of baptism.

Look upon us as we enter these forty days bearing the mark of ashes. Bless us on our journey through Lent to the waters of rebirth.

May our fasting be a hunger for justice; our alms, a making of peace; our prayer, the chant of humble and grateful hearts.

All that we do and pray is in the name of Jesus, for in his cross you proclaim your love now and forever. Amen

From the Principal

2017 High Achievers Ceremony

It was terrific to see so many of our Year 12 students from 2017 back at the College today.

All present heard an outstanding speech from or 2017 College Dux, Alison Vasjuta-  see copy below.

Listening to Alison speak about overcoming so many obstacles in her time at CRC and then achieving so well in her VCE was truly inspirational.

Congratulations Alison and all Award winners.

 Alison Vasjuta Speech

I am honoured and incredibly proud to stand here before you as the college Dux of 2017. 

I also congratulate my fellow peers on their academic achievements today. 

For us 2017 was a year of diligence and sacrifice. Now it is time to reflect, to change and to grow into the movers and shakers of the future. Whether you are going onto university, TAFE, travel or full time work this year, I wish you the best of luck. 

As a young woman, I am particularly thankful for receiving an opportunity that millions of girls across the world are denied. In some countries fewer than 10% of girls complete their high school education, which is a privilege we mustn't take for granted.

There is no natural talent or luck which leads me here today. I was always a pretty ordinary student, no different from any one of you. I've always maintained good grades but I have never before been the Dux of my cohort. I had never even been the Dux of a subject until Year 10. So let my example prove to you that in no way do you have to be the smartest, you just have to be willing to work the hardest.

My journey from Year 7-12 at Catholic Regional College was not always easy, yet it has nurtured me into a woman of integrity and resilience. After my mum was diagnosed with cancer in 2015, the support and generosity extended by the staff at CRC was an incredible blessing during this difficult time in my family's life.

The counselling staff, in particular, have been a tremendous support ever since.

To my mum, I'm lucky to have you here today. 

I owe my achievements to several teachers who have taught me over the past six years, who have collectively influenced me in one way or another. I wish to extend my gratitude to an incredible group of women in particular:

Mrs Sullivan, Miss Grech, Mrs Toms, Miss Layton, Mrs Fus and Mrs Spearman.

Your passion for your work is undeniable. Thank you for letting me bother you relentlessly during lunch times and pester you with emails, essays and practice exams. I couldn’t have done it without each of you. On behalf of my cohort, I would like to thank Mr Henneman and Mrs Lock for their support during such a challenging year, know that your efforts and commitment to us did not go unappreciated. I would also like to make a special mention to Mrs Harrington for always offering her support, friendship and my personal favourite, free food over the past two years. You went above and beyond for our homeroom and we honestly cannot thank you enough. Lastly, to my parents, my friends and my boyfriend thank you for always being my biggest supporters in life.

Year 12's of 2018, know that (despite the flood of careers emails and the word VTAC) you don't need to have your life figured out just yet

Now, however, is the time to set yourself goals. In 365 days, do you want to be standing up here? Have a vision for why you’re studying so hard. Write it down. Some days you’re going to be exhausted and you’re going to feel unmotivated, soit’s important to keep the end in sight. I had a number in mind written on my whiteboard where I could see it each morning. This held me accountable on the days I didn’t feel like giving it one hundred percent.

Your teacher’s are right when they tell you VCE is a competition, nothing gets more competitive than trying to get a carpark after July or the race to get your lunch in the microwave first. It’s every man for themselves.

Balance is essential and time management will be your greatest asset. I worked a part time job, went out on weekends and had a busy social life. During winter I spent most weekends snowboarding and during the off season my Monday night basketball team experienced the weekly privilege of having our butts kicked by Mrs Lock. Continuing to do the things you enjoy is critical, without them you run the risk of burning yourself out. Contrary to popular belief; you can have both. If you perfect the art of balancing them, I assure you it will be one of the best years of your life.

In 2018 I will be commencing a Bachelor of Applied Science/Master of Physiotherapy at Latrobe and I am excited and eager for this new chapter of my life.

Class of 2018, I wish you all the best of luck with the year ahead and beyond. They’re not lying when the say it goes fast, so give it your all and turn your expectations into reality.

Thank you

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Term 1 continues with much activity both within and outside the classrooms.  Classes across all year levels are now in full swing, with our updated Mathematics program extended to Year 9 providing positive feedback from students and parents.

The weather looks promising for our upcoming Swimming Carnival. Please read information in today's newsletter about the day’s arrangements and ensure your child is SunSmart ready.

Information Evenings

We begin our information evenings for selected year levels. Year 7 parents / guardians are welcome to attend our Information evening in the Hall this Wednesday starting at 6.30pm.

Our Year 12 Information evening is on Thursday, February 22, with separate sessions being held for our VCAL and VCE Students.

Year 9 – 12 Subject Changes

As stated last week, Year 9 - 12 students should have completed any necessary changes with their studies and no more will occur unless there are exceptional circumstances. Year 9 & 10 students will be able to enquire about changes to their Semester 2 electives at the end of Term 2.

Buses

There appears to be some overcrowding on the Darley bus after school. We are working with the bus company and driver on solutions. Priority will go to students who board the bus in the morning and we will issue cards to these students. I will also look at other longer term solutions with Bacchus Marsh Coaches.

2018 CRC Melton Swimming Carnival

CRC Mass

Mass will be celebrated every Friday in the College Chapel at 8:00am.

Parents welcome.

Peer Support

During Term 1, students will be involved in the Peer Support Program. Each week, groups of 8-9 Year 7 students will meet with 2 Year 10 Peer Leaders and work through a range of activities that focus on resilience. Meeting in small groups allows meaningful connections to form, assisting students with the transition to secondary school. Over a period of five weeks, students will acknowledge their strengths and achievements, identify people who support them and learn how to view challenges as opportunities for growth.

For additional reading and resources to support your child please visit the parent tab on the Peer Support Australia Website www.peersupport.edu.au

Sport News

Welcome back for 2018 and what a year it is going to be in sport. We have our College Swimming Carnival on Tuesday 20th February at Melton Waves.  There will be many activities for the students to participate in, including the usual freestyle, backstroke, breaststokeand relays. There will also be novelty events running in the smaller pool and around both pools there will be activities such as face painting, tug of war and hair braiding.

A number of senior sports are happening this term. Students in Year 10-12 are encouraged keep a look out for sign ups and trials.

Below are a list of State teams that our students can try out for.  If you think you are talented at one of the below sports, go onto the SSV website for more information. Throughout the year more sports will come up to try out for, so stay tuned.

Australian Football – 15 Years and Under Boys (Close 1 March)
Australian Football – 15 Years and Under Girls (Close 1 March)
Netball – 15 Years and Under (Close 22 February)
Softball – 17 Years and Under Boys (Close 6 February)
Softball – 17 Years and Under Girls (Close 6 February)
Tennis – 18 Years and Under Boys (Close 14 February)
Tennis – 18 Years and Under Girls (Close 14 February)

You may also know some emerging 12 year olds...

Cricket – 12 Years and Under Boys (Close 13 February)
Cricket – 12 Years and Under Girls (Close 13 February)
Hockey – 12 Years and Under Boys (Close 1 March)
Hockey – 12 Years and Under Girls (Close 1 March)
Australian Football – 12 Years and Under (Close 1 March)
Netball – 12 Years and Under (Close 1 March)
Basketball – 12 Years and Under Boys (Close 1 March)
Basketball – 12 Years and Under Girls (Close 1 March)
Football (Soccer) – 12 Years and Under Boys (Close 1 March)
Football (Soccer) – 12 Years and Under Girls (Close 1 March)

If you know someone with an emerging talent, be sure to contact the College, or you can find all the details on the Team Vic section of the SSV website: http://www.ssv.vic.edu.au/team-vic

We love hearing about all of our students sporting achievements outside of school, if your child has been involved in something, please email me at nbourke@crcmelton.com.au with the details and a photo.

Coles Sports for Schools

Catholic Regional College Melton has registered with the Coles Sports for Schools program and is looking for your help to collect as many Coles vouchers as we can. For every $10 spent at a Coles supermarket, customers can collect one voucher which can be redeemed for sports equipment for the college. If you would like to help, please place the Coles vouchers in the collection box in the front office of the school. We encourage CRC Melton families to become Coles shoppers for the next six weeks and support us in providing new equipment for our students.

Detox Your Home

Detox your Home at Melton City Council’s free household chemical drop off program.

Do you have unwanted household chemicals you no longer use? Some of these products could harm you, your family and your pets.

Household chemical products can also pollute the environment for future generations as well as harm their health, which is why you shouldn’t throw chemical products out with your regular rubbish collection or pour them down the drain.  Doing so would pollute our waterways, harm animals and vegetation, contaminate our drinking water supply and make rivers and beaches unsafe for swimming.

The good news is you can reduce the risk of poisoning, environmental pollution and bushfire hazards, as well as improve recycling rates, by dropping off unwanted chemicals at the Melton Recycling Facility’s,  Detox your Home event.

Catholic Regional College Melton encourages parents/guardians to take advantage of this safe, free and easy-to-use service for householders to dispose of common, highly toxic household chemicals without harming your health, your family’s health or the environment. Please note that students should not handle household chemicals without adult supervision.

When: Saturday 14th April 2018

Time: 10.00am-1.00pm

Where: Melton Recycling Facility, 33 Ferris Rd, Cobblebank (Melton South)

Do the right thing by your loved ones, the local community and the environment and get rid of unwanted – and potentially dangerous – household chemicals through Detox your Home.

The collected items are recycled for recovery and diverted from landfill.

What you need to do

Simply register online or over the phone, then turn up on the day with your unwanted items, and the expert Detox your Home team will do the rest. Register online to choose your preferred time slot: sustainability.vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome

What can I bring to a Detox your Home mobile event?

Detox your Home is a free program designed specifically to collect unwanted or out-of-date household chemicals. Less toxic items – paint, household batteries and fluorescent lights – can be disposed of throughout the year at a permanent drop-off site.

Visit sustainability.vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome for a full list of accepted items and a list of permanent drop-off sites.

Prayer

What will this year bring?

We do not know; It will likely bring us its usual times of work and play, experiences of learning, newness, success and challenges, All things that are part of school life.  

It's a new beginning; The planting of a seed that will grow for a year, The seed of fruit that will blossom in times to come. It offers new hope; Hope for good work, for successful results, For friendship, for fun, for learning. 

In this coming year, may there be learning, prayer, and fun. May there be hard work, faith and friendship. May no one in school be lonely; May no one be left out in class; May no one suffer because of how others treat them.

As we begin this new school year in hope, in prayer and friendship, May God begin it with us, be with us during it, and successfully bring it to its conclusion.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen

From the Principal

Welcome back to the 2018 school year and a special welcome to all new students, families and staff to CRC Melton. 

Welcome to the following new staff:

• Sister Anastasia - Religious Education and Maths

• Sister Mary Rachel - Religious Education and Humanities

• Jessica Alger – ACU Trainee

• Daniel Attard - Maths and Engineering

• Alison Andrada - Arts Traineeship

• Amy Bandeira - Music and Drama 

• Louise Crocitti - Language (Italian)

• Sandra Carey - VCAL and VET Allied Health

• Mollie Daphne - EAL Coordinator 

• Justin Farrugia - Maths   

• Meryem McLeod - Arts and Humanities

• Bianca Mifsud - VET Coordinator  

• Nirasha Pandi - English

• Kezi Todd - VCE English  

• Lauren Whitford - English  

• Hollie Whitlock – Humanities

We also welcome back Ingrid McRae and Amanda Wall from leave and also welcome to our new Canteen managers Colleen and Debra.

Policy on mobile phones in classroom

Mr Blackley announced to all students at last Friday’s school assembly the ban on using mobile phones in class rooms. Schools across Australia have introduced this policy (see article below) as it assists students to focus on their learning and reduces the opportunity for cyberbullying.

Best wishes to all for the 2018 school year.

An excerpt from the Sunday Herald Sun February 3, 2018

Ban smartphones from classrooms, says Federal Education Minister

Natsha Bita and Grant McArthur

THE Federal Education Minister has called for smartphones to be banned in classrooms. Senator Simon Birmingham made the call as figures show half of children were victim to cyberbullies in the past year.

Mr Birmingham told the Sunday Herald Sun: “There’s almost no reason students shouldn’t have their phones switched off and in their lockers while they’re at school.

“Although learning to work with technology is essential, phones can be a distraction from lessons and a platform for bullying unless schools have the right policies in place.“Those running school systems need to lead from the front with firm policies that ensure the problem isn’t just left to hardworking teachers and principals.’’

University of Melbourne Associate Professor Kay Margetts said smartphones were diluting students’ focus in the classroom and valuable social skills.

“I think it is quite reasonable that they could be banned. The sooner we do these things, the better,” she said. “There is so much research now about the negative impacts of social media on young people’s development that I think we need to put a stop to it.”

Child psychologist Michael Carr-Gregg, who sits on the federal government’s internet safety working group, said smartphones must be banned in primary schools.

Young children needing phones for “security purposes’’ should only be given “dumb phones’’ without internet access, he said.

Victorian Education Minister James Merlino said most of the state’s schools already had bans on phones being used during classes.

“Cyber bullying is complex and doesn’t stop at the school gate. In fact in many cases the most worrying time is when a child is at home and being bullied via social media,” he said.

The recent suicide of 14-year-old Queensland schoolgirl Amy “Dolly” Everett after cyber bullying has put a spotlight on the issue.

“Cyber cop’’ Susan McLean demanded a ban on phones in schools, warning they risked being sued by the parents of cyber bullying victims over messages sent in school hours.

Ms McLean — who advises the federal government as a member of its Cyber Safety Working Group — said she was being flooded with requests from schools, parents and legal firms about the legality of phones in schools.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Welcome back to the 2018 school year and congratulations to our students, who have settled in well to their 2018 classes.  

We are continuing to look at upgrading our facilities for students. We have just opened our newly refurbished Art room (previous Woodwork room) and students are now able to use our new Wood Modular Building (Joseph). Both rooms will have further work done to them during this term as we move to final fit out. We are continuing the construction of our Sports Stadium, which we anticipate to be ready in Term 3. 

Transport

We request that only parents/guardians dropping off or picking up students with disabilities/injuries use the disabled parking spots at the front of the College. We often see vehicles parking there, whilst having a disabled sticker, have quite able students. With only 2 disabled spots we ask that families support us and give priority to those students who need the close access. Students travelling on Bacchus Marsh Coaches and SITA bus lines will have the pick-up procedures monitored to ensure maximum safety and clarity for students. We will be consulting with the companies and bus drivers to see what, if any changes are needed. Please let the Bus Company and us know if you have concerns.

Year 7 Information Evening 

I look forward to meeting Year 7 parents/guardians next Wednesday, February 14 at our Information evening.

Year 9 – 12 Subject Changes 

As all Year 9 - 12 students undertook a thorough selection process last year and VCE students undertook Jumpstart, no changes will be made after this week unless there are exceptional circumstances. Changes for Semester Two electives at Year 9 & 10 will be considered closer to the start of Term 3.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

On behalf of the student welfare team and Year Level Coordinators, I would like to welcome all students and their families to the 2018 school year.  I trust the Christmas holiday break was a great opportunity to spend time with family members and relax. We extend a welcome to parents who have their first son or daughter starting at Catholic Regional College this year.

Theme for 2018

At our full school assembly last week, I spoke to the students about what is resilience and how we can develop our ability to deal with the many challenges we face. In the context of their school work it was about their:

• Ability to bounce back from adversity
• Skill for coping with life’s inevitable obstacles
• One of the key ingredients to success

During Term 2 resilience workshops will be presented for all students, a parent evening offered and a staff workshop by the Resilience Project team. Click on the their link for more details. https://theresilienceproject.com.au/

A copy of the presentation is available on the Knowledge Banks within SIMON.

Term 1 School Uniform

It is pleasing to see the students wearing the correct school uniform. The College has a set school uniform policy and students are expected to wear it correctly. Uniforms are to be kept clean, pressed and mended and school shoes kept clean and polished. The uniform is sold exclusively through the College Uniform Shop.  More details can be found in the student diary regarding the uniform and grooming requirements for students. It was made clear to students at the opening assembly last week what is permitted. We look forward to your support in ensuring your son and daughter is in the correct uniform and neatly groomed.  Facial piercings are not permitted, other than ear piercings. Penalties will be issued to students if they are wearing the incorrect uniform. 

I wish to highlight some key points regarding the uniform. Students wearing PE uniform must wear CRC sport socks and only wear the PE uniform when they have PE/Drama/Dance classes, compete at SACCSS or Premier league competition days. Boys in summer uniform are to wear plain navy blue socks. Students will be required to wear their school uniform at all full school assemblies and official events eg. College Mass, VCE Awards Ceremony.

A note in the diary needs to be provided if your child is not wearing the correct uniform. Notes from parents will not entitle students to be out of uniform for more than one school day.

Attendance

I remind parents that on occasion that students will be late or absent you are asked to contact the College in advance on 8099 6000 and follow the prompt to record your child’s absence.  A note in the College diary needs to be provided to be shown to the student’s Homeroom teachers on their return.

All students who arrive at school after homeroom MUST sign in at the Student Office. Failing to do so results in parents receiving an SMS from the College indicating their child is not here which causes unnecessary confusion and distress.

Canteen

2018 sees new managers, Colleen Morrow and Debra Kenny, with a new menu and ordering system. It is now possible for parents and students to pre-order their lunch on line by creating an account on  http://ultimateschools.com.au/. By ordering before 9am, students will be guaranteed what they want off the menu for lunch. A copy of the menu can be found on SIMON by clicking on the link Canteen menu 2018

Students at all year levels are not permitted to organise for takeaway food deliveries to be made to the College during school hours. Students can order their lunch from the canteen. We also ask you as parents to not organise this for them. If food is delivered it will be confiscated and can be collected at the end of the day from Student Reception.

From the Director of Learning

A very warm welcome to the beginning of the 2018 academic year. This year, we encourage all students to work hard to achieve their personal best in every subject they study by taking advantage of every learning opportunity presented to them. 

The learning of our students involves a partnership between students, staff and parents/carers; with each having a very important role to play in the support of the learning of the students.

For all students, their focus should be on continual academic improvement by setting high standards, believing in themselves and working hard. Students must also set goals and take advantage of the expertise of their teachers and seek help when required.  

For teachers, they will know their students and work with them to ensure they are learning in a way that suits the learning style of each student. Teachers will also be informed of current best practice and educational research to ensure they provide the best learning opportunities for students in their classes.

For parents and carers, we encourage you to be engaged in your student’s learning.  Ask questions, have them teach you what they learnt at school, read their English texts, provide a space conducive to study and supervise their home study. Learning feedback from 2017 will also guide you in what specific support your student needs; perhaps it is to limit social activities to allow students to complete their work at home, or to ensure that the iPad contains largely learning materials and not only games and movies or even ensure that work is simply proofread before submission.  

Home study

Home study is an important part of the learning process and it is expected that every student complete some home study at least five evenings per week.  The recommended times for home study are: 

Year 7 45 minutes

Year 8 60 minutes

Year 9 75 minutes

Year 10 90 minutes

Year 11 120 to 150 minutes (6 evenings per week)

Year 12 150 to 180 minutes (6 evenings per week)

Home study provides students the opportunity to consolidate the knowledge and skills learnt in classes that day.  Revision is also a very important component of home study with research speaking to the fact that regular revision of content and skills is far more effective than ‘cramming’ before the assessment task.  Please note that your student should never claim they have no home study- regular revision is a constant task and should be a focus from Day 1 of classes to the final day of school.  Similarly, if your student is doing excessive amounts of home study, please contact your students Homeroom Teacher.  Balance is important, so although we do expect some home study to take place, we also recommend students spend time with family, friends and hobbies each night.

Reading for Enjoyment, Encouragement and Development (R.E.E.D.)

The educational benefits of reading for pleasure is well documented and in an effort to support our students in reaching their personal best, we are continuing with the Reading for Enjoyment, Encouragement and Development (R.E.E.D.) program in 2018. This program requires all students in Years 7 to 10 to read for pleasure for 15 minutes in period 2 each day.  Reading materials must be hard copy and a book of student choice- it can not be a novel we are studying as part of the curriculum.  The College library has resources available for students to borrow all year round.   

We encourage all parents/carers to supervise their student reading for pleasure at home each evening.  Melton Library carries a large selection of materials of different genres which students have full access to if they have a library card.  Please visit the Library with your student for more information.

Fee Statements

Statements will be posted this week. If you have completed a direct debit form for 2018, payments will commence on 21st February unless otherwise requested.

Canteen News

2 Cookies Catering is pleased to be offering the canteen services to CRC Melton’s students and staff in 2018.

2 Cookies Catering is run by Colleen and Debra. Colleen has previous experience operating a food business and has in the past provided food to the CRC Community at Celebration Day, and Debra has worked as a commercial chef and she also works with Grade 5 students at St Dominic’s Primary School in their café program. 

We aim to bring to the School community a menu and food service which is healthy and tasty. We will be trialling several new menu items over the course of the year and we will welcome feedback regarding menu items. We will run a summer menu with healthy salad options and our winter menu will include soups and pasta options. We will be making these foods in the canteen, so they will fresh and delicious.

We are also implementing an online ordering service via an App which can be downloaded onto any internet enabled device. This App, serviced by Ultimate Schools means that you can order and pay for lunch orders or snacks online. Either, the parent/guardian can have one main account for their children or you can download the app onto each child’s phone or iPad. The easiest and most cost-effective way to pay for food is to transfer money into the App account, there is no fee for a money transfer, but it can take a couple of days. Once there is money in the account, your child can then order their snacks or lunch online and you can then top up the account as needed. Alternatively, you can pay via credit but there is a bank surcharge to cover this option. The Ultimate Schools App is an easy system to use and it removes the need for loose change to pay for school foods. 

All the information regarding the App is available both on the College website and leaflets are available from the office or the canteen.

Lunch orders can still be placed via a paper bag, these orders need to be given direct to the canteen in the morning before 9am. All lunch orders are then picked up from the canteen windows at the start of lunch service.

We look forward to working with the School community to provide a quality food service in 2018.

2 Cookies Catering

Canteen.pdf