Weekly Reflection

Hear his voice, ‘I am the gate. Anyone who enters through me will be safe.

I have come so that you may have life, and have it to the full.’ John 10:1-10

During an interview, Pope Francis asked, ‘How are we treating the people of God?’ He answers his own question: ‘I dream of a church that is a mother and a shepherdess.

The church’s ministers must be merciful, take responsibility for the people and accompany them like the Good Samaritan, who washes, cleans and raises up his neighbour. This is pure Gospel.’

From the Principal

Visits from Archbishop Peter Comonsoli and Bishop Mark Edwards next week

Next Tuesday Bishop Mark Edwards is celebrating a whole School Mass with us, as he officially opens our Sports Stadium. Parents are welcome to join us for this important event in our school’s history. If you are planning to attend, please email my Personal Assistant Samantha Sacco at ssacco@crcmelton.com.au

Also, on Friday afternoon, Archbishop Peter Comonsoli is celebrating Mass for the staff of the five Campus' of Catholic Regional College; St Albans, North Keilor, Caroline Springs, Sydenham and Melton at St Catherine’s of Siena Church.

It’s a very special week for us having these two occasions days apart, in our school year - one that I look forward to immensely. 

Privacy Policy

The school has recently reviewed and updated its privacy policy. The updated policy can be accessed from the school's website. Alternatively, you may request a copy from the school office.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Mid Year Exams & Timed Assessment Tasks 2019

The College has a formal assessment schedule that will operate across Years 7 – 11.

Years 7 & 8

Apart from Timed Assessment Tasks that will operate in normal class times, all Year 7 & 8 students will do a Timed Assessment Task in Mathematics Blocks and English at the same times. These assessment tasks will take place in their Homerooms and take the place of the normal timetabled class. These are listed below:

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake assessment tasks beginning Thursday, 13th June.  Elective assessments (TATs) will take place in normal scheduled class times. Exams in Mathematics, English, Science and Humanities will take place on the following dates.

Year 11 and Year 10 June Exams

• Year 11 students will undertake VCE Unit 1 exams from Thursday, 13th June to Friday, 21st June. Year 10 students will also have exams during this time
• All Year 10 & 11 exams will take place in our Osma 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 time to ensure smooth entry into the exam venues
• Friday, 21st June is allocated as a catch up day for any students who need to complete a missed exam or not completed Subject Outcome

 All Year 10 & 11 students have been given a copy of the attached exam schedule.

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

Queen's Birthday

Monday, 10th June is the Queen's Birthday Public Holiday.

VCE Semester 2

Unit 2 Studies begin on Tuesday, 25th June.

Work & City Experience

In the last week of Term 2, Year 10 students will undertake Work Experience (24th – 28th June) and Year 9 students will participate in their City experience program and Reflection day. 

CRC Federation Mass

Families are asked to note that Friday, 31st May is the CRC Federation Mass day where staff from all five Regional Colleges come together at 2.00 pm for Mass and reflection. The morning will be used for our staff to participate in Child Safety and Disability updates.

Semester 2 Subject / Electives Changes

All Year 9 and 10 students will receive copies of their Semester 2 electives next week. After reviewing with parents, request's for changes to Semester 2 electives must be emailed directly to myself at jchristie@crcmelton.com.au between Monday, 27th May and Friday, 7th 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, selection requirements and payment of current subject levies. 

Year 11 students will be able to investigate any Unit 2 subject changes from Monday, 3rd 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 Friday, 21st June.

John Christie

Deputy Principal - Staff

10 & 11 Exam Timetable.pdf

GAT

Any student undertaking a Unit 3/4 subject will be required to sit the General Achievement Test (GAT) on Wednesday 12th June from 10:00am – 1:15pm. The GAT will be held in the Trade Training Centre 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 Padua building prior to the exam.

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

Approved materials for the GAT include:

• A dictionary (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)

Project Rockit Workshop

On Thursday 16th of May, the Year 8s participated in a workshop run by Project Rockit, which reinforced the students' knowledge of cyber bullying. There were many interactive activities across the day that students had the chance to participate in. The presenters taught us about ways to stop bullying when we see it through a range of different activities. They ran games such as a talk off, to teach us lessons about why bullying happens. All the students had a terrific time, it was a fun day with lots of valuable knowledge learnt.

Book Reviews

Grandma Dangerous and the Egg of Glory By Kita Mitchell, Nathan Reed (Illustrator)

Warning: do not give this book to your own grandma. She might get ideas...

Grandma demands justice!

A priceless artefact has been stolen in Russia - and Grandma Dangerous wants to find it. Nothing will stand in her way - not even some poisoned caviar, a prison break or a spot of contemporary dance. Can Ollie and Grandma return the treasure and get back home, before being caught by the politsiya? Or - worse - before Mum finds out?

The Extinction Trials: Rebel By S. M. Wilson

Betrayal. Sacrifice. Survival. Welcome to the Extinction Trials.

Storm and Lincoln's city is burning. The people are starving. The only place left to run is Piloria, the continent of monsters. It's up to Storm and Lincoln to keep their people alive as they colonize this lethal paradise. But will the biggest threat to their survival be the monsters in the jungle...or the ones inside the encampment with them?

The Hunger Games meets Jurassic Park in this wildly popular series filled with action, survival and betrayal.

CRC Melton History

Can you help us record the living history of CRC Melton?
We are looking for past students to record their memories and anecdotes of their time at CRC Melton.
Whether you (or someone you know) was part of this 1980s ‘Originals’ photo, or you are a more recent alumni, we would love if you could take the time to complete the following survey.

https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=2y78L3XGHUaEWG723cfROqqujfow9R1Mn9iTTbV_U-xURFhVSjRHUzhDQzEzSlNUTzUyVUJSN1NFWi4u

Weekly Reflection

Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.

I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.

                                                       (John 15: 4–5)

We praise you, God of life and growth. You have promised that we shall abide in you, and you in us, and that, through the love we show to others, we will be fruitful.

May our lives show forth your love so that our fears shall become love and our sorrows shall become joy. We pray that the grace of Jesus Christ, the true Vine, will always flow into our hearts so that we can reach out and share your love with each person we meet.

Through Christ, our Lord.

Amen

From the Principal

Visit to CRC by Steve McGhie MLA

On Monday, we greeted our local state Member for Melton, Steve McGhie and his assistant Broden Borg.

Our visitors spent an hour visiting our classrooms and facilities, and listening to our local issues.

We look forward to an ongoing relationship with Steve and his office.

Melton History

This week we received a copy of Growth, Progress and Community Spirit, a history of the Melton District. It looks, at first glance, to be a terrific resource for all in the community who have an interest in Melton’s growth over the past hundred years. A copy is available for viewing in the College Library.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Resilience Project Parent Evening

On 7th May, the College hosted a parent workshop presented by the founder of the Resilience Project, Hugh van Cuylenburg, with approximately 100 parents attending the evening.

Hugh told stories from his life, giving practical, evidence-based, positive mental health strategies to build resilience and happiness. “It’s for everyone, no matter how happy they currently feel, no matter how good their headspace,” he said. “It’s about giving them strategies to stay that way.”

He gave tips which included paying attention to all the great things we have, rather than focusing on the things we don’t have, learning how to be calm and present in the moment, learning the importance of being kind to people and how to reconnect in a genuine and authentic way.

Hugh offered simple strategies on how we can practise gratitude, be empathetic and be mindful. For example, ask yourself and write down what are three things that went well for you today? If you do that every day for 21 days, you rewire your brain to start scanning the world for the positive and in 42 days, you are less likely to get sick, have higher levels of energy, feel happier, have a better quality of sleep and have lower levels of depression and anxiety.

Every time you do something for someone else, your brain releases oxytocin and this leads to increased self-esteem and confidence, increased energy, levels of happiness and positivity. A simple exercise when practising mindfulness or meditating he offered was when walking your dog, only focus on the sounds around you not how the day went and what do I have to do in preparation for tomorrow, but be in the present moment.

The messages of Hugh fit with the presentation made by our College Captains, Evana Miesen and Dylan Hassan at a recent full school assembly. They spoke of one of their key focuses as college captains this year being the promotion of mental health amongst our school and community.

1 in 7 young people are affected by a mental health disorder. Suicide is the leading cause of death amongst young people. Rates of suicide are the highest that they’ve been in 10 years. These numbers are tragic and represent the action we must take. I feel as though it is our responsibility as a school to reach out and help those suffering from these terrible diseases. However, it is not that easy, that’s the thing about depression (or any other disorder): many people I have spoken to who are suffering, have explained we can’t force it to go away. If I could just “stop feeling sad” I WOULD. This is why it is so important that we don’t turn a blind eye and realise the significance that the promotion of mental health can bring to students’ academic performance and social interaction.

Through our school community we can look after and support one another by encouraging students to speak up. I urge you to understand that there is nothing weak in asking for help. Give yourself permission to acknowledge that you’re feeling terrible (or bad, or whatever it is you are feeling), and do a little thing, just one little thing, that you probably don’t feel like doing, and I PROMISE you it will help.

Some of these things include talking, seeking professional help, colouring, mindfulness or getting support from a friend. As a friend, it may feel confronting or overwhelming to be in this position.

If you need some guidance, RUOK has suggested 4 steps.

1. Ask your friend “RUOK”?

2. Listen

3. Encourage action - refer them to their Year Level Coordinator

4. Check in.

CRC is full of bright students full of so much potential, we cannot let depression/anxiety win, so I encourage you to seek help, ask your friend if they are okay, and together as a school through supporting one another we can fight back. With the assistance of Media Captain Cassandra Nguyen, students produced a video to support their message.

https://crcmeltonmy.sharepoint.com/:v:/g/personal/528242_crcmelton_com_au/EWdIdidwHclLoZ4z3o_q-z4B_UtJbmuhLE4vtP0jeFaZ0g?e=t9zj5w

Year 9 Rite Journey Calling and Departure Ceremony

On Wednesday 29th May or Thursday 30th May, Year 9 students and their parent/s are invited to participate in the Year 9 Rite Journey Calling and Departure ceremony. This ceremony marks the important journey that Year 9s are embarking on this year in Rite Journey. The Rite Journey reinvents the traditional process of a Rite of Passage to assist in transforming the adolescent from dependency to responsibility, from childhood to young adulthood. The ceremony is a symbol of this transformation.

In preparation for the evening we ask that parents write a letter to their son/daughter. A template for this letter has been provided in the Caremonkey form sent out earlier in the week. During their Rite Journey classes, the Year 9s will also be writing a letter and these letters will be exchanged on the evening.

It is an expectation that one or both parents/guardians attend the night as the purpose of the night is to recognise the role parents have had in their child’s life and the journey they are going on. Due to the significant nature of this ceremony, siblings should not attend.

Details for the night are as follows:

Date:

BOYS - Wednesday 29th May 2019

GIRLS - Thursday 30th May 2019

Time: 7:00pm

Location: Catholic Regional College Melton Sports Stadium

Dress code: Neat Casual (no track pants or active wear)

Outline for night:

7.00 – 7.15pm: Introduction and welcome

7.15 – 7.30pm: Exchange of letters and leaf activity

7.30 – 8.10pm: Calling and Departure Ceremony (Fire pit and archway walk)

8.10pm – 8.30pm: Photos and tea/coffee

If you have any questions about the night, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at lhill@crcmelton.com.au or 8099 6000.

NCCD Resources

Parents, Carers and Guardians can now access our NCCD google folder for updated CECV NCCD Information Sheets for 2019. Please click on the following link:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1oCvbUjSZbjetbn6Q31Wqe9v0bHwQt8mB

Sports News

SACCSS Cross Country Carnival

On 7th May we sent over 50 students to represent the College at the SACCSS Cross Country Carnival. All the students ran great races throughout the day. The encouragement, support and positivity not only between team mates but the sportsmanship between all 14 schools was fantastic. Congratulations to the following students who placed in the top 10 within their age group:

• Girls under 13s- Danielle Ide 6^th place
• Boys under 14s- Gabriel Acosta 10^th place
• Girls intermediate-Lucy Taylor 4^th place
• Boys intermediate- Solomon Miesen 9^th place

And a very special congratulations to Jackson Wright who won the under 13's boys race. An outstanding effort by Jackson for his first year at the College. What a great achievement as a year 7 student.

Thank you to Emma Brown for coaching and training the team and a special thank you to all the parents who attended to show their support for our school.

Year 7 Premier League

Last week on Wednesday 8th May we had our second round of year 7 premier league. We had a home game against CRC St. Albans. Our Footballers played at Arnolds Creek, Soccer was at Kurunjang Synthetic and Basketball, Netball and Volleyball headed to Eagle Stadium. The students were eager and excited to play especially the boys' Football team being their first game. We had an extremely successful day out with all 8 teams winning. Next round we play Mackillop which we know will be very challenging for all teams. The scores from round 2 are as follows:

• Won Boys AFL 115-1
• Won Girls Netball 64-1
• Won Boys Basketball 42-16
• Won Girls Basketball 75-2
• Won Boys Soccer 3-2
• Won Girls Soccer 5-2
• Won Boys Volleyball 94-74
• Won Girls Volleyball 75-39

Book Reviews

Wings of Fire: The Lost Heir Book 2 By: Tui T. Sutherland, Mike Holmes (Illustrator)

The lost heir to the SeaWing throne is going home at last. She can't believe it's finally happening. Tsunami and her fellow dragonets of destiny are journeying under the water to the great SeaWing Kingdom. Stolen as an egg from the royal hatchery, Tsunami is eager to meet her future subjects and reunite with her mother, Queen Coral. But Tsunami's triumphant return doesn't go quite the way she'd imagined. Queen Coral welcomes her with open wings, but a mysterious assassin has been killing off the queen's heirs for years, and Tsunami may be the next target. The dragonets came to the SeaWings for protection, but this ocean hides secrets, betrayal and perhaps even death.

Strange the Dreamer: Muse of Nightmares By: Laini Taylor

In the wake of tragedy, neither Lazlo nor Sarai are who they were before. One a god, the other a ghost, they struggle to grasp the new boundaries of their selves as dark-minded Minya holds them hostage, intent on vengeance against Weep. Lazlo faces an unthinkable choice - save the woman he loves, or everyone else? While Sarai feels more helpless than ever. But is she? As humans and god spawn reel in the aftermath of the citadel's near fall and a new foe shatters their fragile hopes, the Muse of Nightmares must take possession of her power - and of her fate, and everyone else's. Love and hate, revenge and redemption, destruction and salvation all clash in this gorgeous sequel to the international bestseller, Strange the Dreamer.

Woolworths Earn & Learn

Thank you to the staff and students who have been collecting Woolworths Earn and Learn stickers. This promotion runs until 25^th June, so keep collecting! Stickers can be given to your Homeroom Teacher or the Librarians. We also have a collection box located at the Woolworths store inside of Woodgrove for your friends and family to donate to.

Crazy Cycling Contraptions and Daredevil Riders Event

Come and see some amazing bike creations and daredevil riders on the Chopper Stopper, Double Eagle, Penny Farthing and Puny Cycle.

Practise your design skills, watch the stunt riders or have a go yourself! For big and little kids who love bicycles.

Children under 12 need to be accompanied by a responsible adult. No bookings required. Full details in attached leaflet.

Nicole Hilder

Digital Access and Local History Librarian | Melton City Council

DaredevilRidersA4Email.pdf

Filipino Community Profile

The Filipino Community profile is a fantastic opportunity to learn about our growing Filipino Community here in the City of Melton and how to engage with them more effectively. See attached flyer for event details.

Flyer.pdf

Weekly Reflection

The Good Shepherd, who willingly died for his flock, is risen.

He is the gateway; through and with Him is found life and growth – life to the full.  

In memory of Jesus we are called to live and love as he did, to take up our cross daily in acts of unconditional love.

In relationship with God we can experience love and recognise each opportunity to draw closer to God, to experience the joy of faith that we can share with others.

Compassionate God, through the life, death and Resurrection of your Son Jesus, you have given us a new life.

Help us then to witness to your teachings and so, like the Good Shepherd, love unconditionally.

Amen.

From the Principal

I was fortunate to attend today's SACCSS Cross Country held at Brimbank Park. The weather was wonderful and CRC students' spirits were high! Further details and photos of the event will be published in next week's newsletter.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Class Surveys

Staff will undertake class surveys over the next week. 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.

Mid-Year Assessment

To assist families in their planning, our mid-year assessment program will take place in June. Years 7 & 8 students will undertake Timed Assessment Tasks (TATS) in the week 3rd-7th June, Year 9 students will have exams in English, Mathematics, Science and Humanities as well as other end of semester assessment tasks from 13th-21st June. A more formal Exam period will operate for all Year 10-11 subjects from 13th-21st June, with students only required at school for exams. A more detailed program will be finalised and released in the coming weeks.

In the last week of Term 2, Year 10 students will undertake Work Experience (24th-28th June) and Year 9 students will participate in their City experience program and Reflection Day. 

From the Director of Learning

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) for Years 7 and 9 students will be held on Tuesday 14th May, Wednesday 15th May and Thursday 16th 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 Year 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, 14th May

Wednesday, 15th May

Thursday 16th 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 class unless told otherwise (as most tests will not take a full 1 period time allotment). I particularly stress the need for all Year 7 and 9 students to have their own calculator for the Thursday morning test.

Book Reviews

The Dog Who Saved the World, By: Ross Welford

The astounding new novel from the bestselling and Costa-shortlisted author of Time Travelling with a Hamster. This is a story for everyone ten and above who loves adventure, laughs and tears. “One of my favourite middle-grade writers,” Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of The Girl of Ink and Stars. When eleven-year-old Georgie befriends an eccentric retired scientist, she becomes the test subject for a thrilling new experiment: a virtual-reality 3D version of the future. But then a deadly disease threatens the life of every dog in the country and Georgie's beloved dog, Mr Mash, gets sick. And that's only the start of her troubles. Soon, Georgie and Mr Mash must embark on a desperate quest: to save every dog on earth, and maybe even all of humanity …… without actually leaving the room.

An extraordinary quest with the biggest stakes of all, and a huge idea at its heart, this is time travel – but not as you know it.

As Old As Time: Disney - Twisted Tales, By: Liz Braswell

Belle is a lot of things: smart, resourceful, restless. She longs to escape her poor provincial town for good. She wants to explore the world, despite her father's reluctance to leave their little cottage in case Belle's mother returns, a mother she barely remembers. Belle also happens to be the captive of a terrifying, angry beast. And that is her primary concern. But when Belle touches the Beast's enchanted rose, intriguing images flood her mind, images of the mother she believed she would never see again. Stranger still, she sees that her mother is none other than the beautiful Enchantress who cursed the Beast, his castle, and all its inhabitants. Shocked and confused, Belle and the Beast must work together to unravel a dark mystery about their families that is twenty-one years in the making.

Woolworths Earn & Learn

Catholic Regional College will be participating in the Woolworths Earn and Learn Program for 2019. Please return stickers to your homeroom teachers or the library.

Volleyschool

It is not too late to join Volleyschool for Term 2. We have two State qualified coaches working with our students so each student can have more time with a coach.

And now we have a more friendly time slot for Volleyschool - sessions will start at 4.00pm and conclude at 5.30pm.

For enrolment fees and other information, refer to the attached Western Region Volleyball flyer. Contact Michael Hill if needing more details (mhill@crcmelton.com.au).

Michael Hill

Volleyball Coach

WRV Volleyschool Costs 2019 Melton.pdf

VCAL Mother's Day Stall

On Thursday 9th May, VCAL Foundation classes will be holding a Mother’s Day stall at recess and lunchtime. Types of gifts available are plants, cards, jewellery, homewares, coffee mugs with chocolates and homemade slices and truffles.

Prices range from $2.00 - $10.00. This project forms part of the VCAL Work Related Skills program.

Sports News

On Tuesday 30th April, the Senior Girls AFL team started off their season playing rivals CRC Sydenham. Despite the girls' not-so-accurate goal kicking in the last quarter, we managed to still get the win. Final score was 49-24 which was a great start to the season by the girls. Well done to coaches Mrs Dickson & Miss Naumcevski.

The first day of May saw the Year 7s begin their first round of Premier League. We sent out 7 teams to compete against Caroline Chisholm Catholic College for round 1 of the season. The students were super excited to compete and enjoyed the day. We look forward to the upcoming rounds that take place on Wednesday afternoons. The results are as follows:

Won Girls Netball 46-1

Won Girls Volleyball 103-82

Won Boys Basketball 40-33

Lost Boys Volleyball 12-25

Lost Girls Basketball 19-38

Lost Girls Soccer 0-3

Lost Boys Soccer 3-4

Student Achievements

At last week's Moorabool Youth awards Abby Mossop and Chantal Bala won the major award jointly for their Contribution to the Arts through their dancing achievements at Dream Entertainment and in particular their unbeaten hip hop duo that won 4 State titles in 2018. Abby has achieved many significant milestones while dancing with Dream Entertainment including being part of the Carlton Cadets Acrobatics Team who performed at AFL games. She is also part of the State Champion Hip Hop Crew D Nation.

Chantal also won the Mayor's Award for her dancing and personal development achievements at Dream Entertainment and for overcoming adversity in her personal life. Chantal is also a member of the award winning D Nation Hip Hop Crew.

Canteen News

Don’t forget you can get your breakfast at the CRC canteen, for those mornings where you run out of food, or time! You can just get a toastie, raisin toast or a drink or you can take advantage of one of our breakfast specials.

• Cheese Toastie & 300mL Big M or Up n' Go - $5.00
• Cheese Toastie & 500mL Big M or Dare - $6.20

Hot Chocolates are now available at breakfast to warm up those chilly mornings - $2.50 small or $3.50 large size.

Available breakfast and recess times. Full breakfast menu is available at the canteen.

Weekly Reflection

Encounters

They were disciples.  They encountered him on the road.

They hungered to spend time with him.  They recognised him in his actions.

Their hearts burned to know more.

They left, told the story and inspired others with their hope.

Lord, like your disciples present on the road and at the

table we are inspired by your deep love for us. Help us to

fearlessly share the good news with all we meet. Thank

you for the sharing of story here in our community, where

we recognise Jesus in the breaking of bread. Help us to

support the Sacramental life we espouse as a Eucharistic

community, and strengthen us to be authentic witnesses

of life giving presence for all.

Amen.

From the Principal

ANZAC Day

On ANZAC Day, a group of student leaders joined myself, Miss Sertic and Miss Cassar in the dawn service at the Melton Cenotaph.

There were several schools and community organisations present and Federal member, Brendan O’Connor and Melton Mayor Bob Turner both addressed the gathering.

Swen Anthony lay a wreath on behalf of CRC Melton.

On Friday, we held a full school assembly where we remembered all men and women who sacrificed their lives in service of our country.

Dylan Hassan, our College Captain began our service by reading about our Lone Pine, located at the front of the College. Our Liturgy Captain, Denise D’Souza, then lead us in prayer, which was followed by the poem 'In Flanders Fields' read by Deputy Liturgy Captain, Michelle Tennakoon Arachchige.

An ANZAC Day speech by Corporal Mark Donaldson VC caught my attention last week. In one exercpt, he said:

‘Perhaps, it is the capacity of all ordinary humans to do extraordinary things when coupled with extreme circumstance – to fight harder, to march further, dig deeper, move despite overwhelmingly odds and care for wounded mates, no matter what the personal imposition or risk – even if that risk means death. This is spirit worthy of renown, praise and of striving to achieve. This is a human spirit – the ANZAC spirit. 

A Spirit that spans generations, defines what mateship means and drives us to be more than we ever imagined we could be.’ 

Lest we forget.

ref: https://www.awm.gov.au/commemoration/speeches/DawnService2019

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Staffing

We welcome Mr Joseph Jamisola, Ms Joann Budrys, Mrs Margaret Fury, Ms Damla Osman, and Ms Dhanya Murali who will replace teachers on leave at the start of this term. Mr Robert Johns has moved schools to be closer to home and Mr Martin Attard will take his classes in the interim.

Mrs Bianca Mifsud has been appointed to the role of VCAL Coordinator.

Class Surveys

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.

Athletics

Our College Athletics Carnival scheduled for this Thursday has been postponed. The weather forecast for the end of this week indicates that we would not have a safe Field Event nor student seating situation. We will notify all families and students of the replacement date once finalised. Normal scheduled classes will run on Thursday.

Premier League

Best of luck to our Year 7 teams as they begin the inter-school SACCSS Premier League sports competition this Wednesday. We will operate an alternative program for students not competing in teams.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Resilience Project Parent Evening - 7th May 

We are pleased to announce a Parent Information Evening around the theme of resilience will be held at the College next Tuesday 7 May at 7pm in the Performing Arts Centre. In 2018 we engaged the Resilience Project team to work with our students about how to use evidence based approaches to build resilience, in order to develop mental health.

The evidence suggests 1 in 4 adolescents have a mental illness, 65% of adolescents do not seek help for mental illness and 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 5 boys suffer from an anxiety disorder.

We are delighted to have the founder of the Resilience Project, Hugh van Cuylenburg, here next week to present the parent evening. Hugh has worked with over 500 schools, the NRL, Australian Cricket team, Australian Netball team, women’s soccer team and 8 AFL teams. His message is one of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness. Hugh is a most engaging and entertaining presenter.

Teenagers who are resilient have:

• emotional awareness and the ability to regulate their emotions
• control over their impulses
• an optimistic mindset
• flexible and accurate thinking
• empathy towards others
• believe that they can achieve things (self-efficacy)
• a willingness to seek help when needed.

As parents/guardians we want our kids to be resilient and naturally want to protect them both physically and emotionally. However, there are times when our kids don’t let us in or ask for help. Hugh will provide you with very valuable and real strategies to help you, help your child develop and enhance their resilience. A link with information on how to register will be sent via CareMonkey.

School Spirit Award Winners

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

Year 7

Charlotte Boog

Charlotte is a student who is always friendly, optimistic, helpful and studious. She has demonstrated a positive and mature approach to her first term at CRC and 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, she showed her caring nature and leadership skills with her kindness and willingness to help others. 

Ryan Drever

Ryan has also 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. He showed an outstanding team spirit at both the swimming carnival and year 7 camp. He is a kind friend who is an excellent role model and valued member of his homeroom 7O. 

Year 8

Isabella Borg

Isabella has been described by a number of her teachers as an individual who is always hard working during class time and is very considerate to both students and staff. She wears her uniform with pride, helps her peers, is respectful to everyone, especially her homeroom peers and is always impeccably behaved. A really great homeroom class member of 8A. She has demonstrated maturity and initiative beyond her years by completing an assessment early due to her upcoming absence. 

Dave Baracael

Dave has been nominated by a number of staff. During term 1, he displayed a strong work ethic across all of his subjects, which has resulted in some fantastic results, including in drama for the performance. A member of 8R, this individual has also been described as a mature, polite, hardworking and friendly person, who is a valued member of the homeroom amongst his peers. 

Year 9

Alyssa Nankervis & Jessica Ribeiro

Alyssa and Jessica are conscientious students who show a strong interest in their learning. They listen attentively, and make solid efforts to improve by paying attention to feedback. They relate well to teachers and classmates by demonstrating strong communication skills, positivity and maturity.

During year 9 Rite journey camp, they both willingly faced all of the new challenges. Their well-developed intrapersonal skills were shown through their ability to appreciate different perspectives and to embrace diversity. They are both wonderful examples of committed learners and responsible young ladies.

Year 10

Ayla Williams

Ayla was recently elected as Reed Student Representative and is involved in the College Production and Ensemble. She is a diligent student and is a positive and cheerful member of each class. 

Steve Teves

Steve has a strong work ethic, seeks feedback and is an excellent student. He gets along with his peers and is always willing to lend a hand.

Year 11

Chloe Farley

Chloe is committed and enthusiastic with all of the learning in the VCAL program. She readily volunteers to assist teachers and students in any task that is required in the classroom or during practical classes. Chloe is very kind towards her peers and tries her best all of the time. Chloe always comes to class with a positive attitude and puts in 110% effort. 

Chantal Bala

Chantal has demonstrated a commitment to other students and has shown kindness in all of her interactions with fellow students and teachers. Chantal participates in extracurricular activities, especially school productions and always presents the school brilliantly. Chantal has been recognised as a student who lifts herself high above expectations and always with a smile. Finally, Chantal is a student who demonstrates the values of the College and what the School Spirit stands for. 

Year 12

Savannah Naumovski

Throughout term 1 Savannah has shown resilience in the face of challenges. She was able to see beyond the bigger picture, focusing on other people’s wellbeing and not just her own. This student is always happy, courteous to both her peers and staff and always works hard in her classes. She is a student who demonstrates the values of the College and what the School Spirit stands for. When faced with her own personal challenges earlier this term, Savannah stated that ‘there are other people much worse off than herself.' She has been a prime example for student resilience this year.

Eden Wright

Eden is a hard and conscientious worker, takes constructive criticism well and works to improve his work. He is a very quiet achiever but remains an active learner throughout the school day. Eden is working incredibly hard across all his subjects and exhibits a positive outlook and attitude both in and outside the classroom, setting an example of excellence in behaviour and diligence. Eden is a student who demonstrates the values of the College and what the School Spirit stands for. 

Jack O’Rourke

Jack excelled at the recent SACCSS swimming sports held on Tuesday 26th March. He showed support and encouragement that went beyond any expectations. Jack assisted the multi class swimmer with cerebral palsy to get to the end of the pool and in both of the races, Jack walked alongside the pool deck for the entire length of his races. In addition to this, at a moment where the multi-class swimmer was getting visibly tired, Jack jumped in the pool and swum alongside him to the very end. This act was on Jack’s own behalf. It was a demonstration of sportsmanship, and deserves a high amount of recognition. All who were present said it was heart-warming to watch one young person from a different school truly support another young person.

Year 7 Project Rockit Incursion

On Wednesday 3rd April, Project Rockit came to our school to teach us about bullying and how it can affect others. They gave us a better understanding of what bullying is and what emotions are felt because of how cruel people can be. They taught us how you can help a victim or help yourself during this time. They spoke about choosing kindness and gave us a quote, “Do you want to be part of the problem or part of the solution?” to think about.

We learnt a lot of new things in this incursion in an enjoyable and engaging way. Bullying is a serious thing that no one wants to go through, and Project Rockit helped teach us how to avoid or help others during these times. Words and hurting people has a huge impact on how people live their lives and how they think of themselves. Project Rockit helped us get a better understanding of that and we are very grateful they came and taught us so much.

Library News & Book Reviews

The Library will run Homework Club again this term, from 1st May – 19th June on Wednesday afternoons, 3:30pm – 4:30pm.

Girltopia #2 By Hilary Rogers

Girltopia, as everyone now calls the city, is in the grip of a strange virus that affects only men and boys. In the race to find a cure for the virus, Clara and her bestie Arabella have a secret to keep. And it is a big secret. When Clara starts receiving strange messages from a mysterious group called The Girlhoods, she needs to make some tough decisions about who to trust, and who to protect. Girltopia is a new world, and Clara is at the centre of it!

Happy Girl Lucky By Holly Smale

Introducing The Valentines. Fame – It Runs in the Family! Sisters Hope, Faith and Mercy have everything: fame, success, money and beauty. But what Hope wants most of all is love, and it doesn't matter how far she has to go to find it. Except real-life isn't like the movies. Even if you're a Valentine . . . Happy Girl Lucky is the first hilarious, heart-warming book in The Valentines series. From the internationally bestselling author of Geek Girl, Holly Smale.

Sports News

Congratulations to Year 12 students Montana Djatschenko and Joshua Porter.

After competing at the Australian Athletics Championships on 1st April,  Montana has been selected to represent Australia in the Oceania Area Championships (Athletics) in Townsville in June. It will be a great honour for Montana to represent her country and wear the green and gold which she has been dreaming of since she started the sport as a 5 year old!

Josh has been playing for Victoria in Gridiron and has been selected for the Australian training squad. He is very excited to represent Australia.

CRC Melton turns 40!

Can you help us? In preparation for the celebration of the College’s 40th Anniversary in 2020 we are seeking help from the broader community of ex-students, staff and parents. Part of our celebrations will involve documenting our school history to preserve it for the future and we are currently archiving photographs and artefacts important to understanding the story of the College. If you have stories you’d like to tell, or artefacts you’d consider sharing from your time here, we’d love to hear from you! It could be anything – photographs, reports, school assignments with comments from teachers, newsletters, newspaper clippings.  Anything that you feel helps to paint a picture of the life of the College over the years would be gratefully accepted, carefully documented and returned. If you think you might be able to help, or have a story to tell, please get in touch with Kezi Todd via email at ktodd@crcmelton.com.au.

Minds Matter: Youth Mental Health Forum 2019

Teenagers, adults, parents and carers are invited to a night to talk about Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Hear from mental health experts as well as stories from Comedian and radio presenter Em Rusciano and Former AFL star, Heath Black.

See attached flyer for more information and registration details.

Mia Lobé

Healthy Families Officer | Melton City Council

Minds Matter Community Mental Health Forum Flyer.pdf

VCAL Mother's Day Stall

On Thursday 9th May, VCAL Foundation classes will be holding a Mother’s Day stall at recess and lunchtime. Types of gifts available are plants, cards, jewellery, homewares, coffee mugs with chocolates and homemade slices and truffles.

Prices range from $2.00 - $10.00. This project forms part of the VCAL Work Related Skills program.

Canteen News

As we head into the cooler weather, it is time to change the canteen menu.

New to the menu for this term is:

Pizzas – Margherita, Hawaiian and Ham and Cheese - $4.50

Fish Burger – Fish fillet, lettuce and tartare sauce on a lightly toasted bun - $5.00

Wedges with Sour cream, sweet chilli sauce or tomato sauce - $5.00

Ben & Jerry’s mini tubs, Cookies and Cream flavour - $4.50

Later on in the term we will add some soups and pastas to the menu. Our full menu is available on the CRC website under your PAM account. If you haven’t already done so, don’t forget to register for an account with Ultimate Schools for easy online ordering.

Les Misérables School Edition

Catholic Regional College Sydenham presents Les Misérables School Edition performed entirely by students. A musical by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg. 

See flyer for details.

SACCSS Facebook Page

SACCSS have created a new Facebook page where Students and Parents/Guardians can keep up to date with latest results, event information and photos. 

Click here to visit the page.

Weekly Reflection

A Prayer for Easter ... And the Beginning

The stone was not the final word.

The final word still resounds in your world: I conquered death, I am risen.

I am risen, I am here.

I came to my mother, answering her hope -

to my friends Peter and John, giving them courage - to Mary Magdalen, confirming her love -

to those on the road to Emmaus and to all my friends, strengthening, encouraging, loving, being with them. I am with you, now.

I am risen, here in your life.

My living this life, walking this earth,

the suffering injustice and death -

all shouting my love for you.

My resurrection, my triumph, my glory

shouting that I am your courage, your hope, your strength. I have never gone away.

I am here now – for you.

From the Principal

School visit from Bishop Mark Edwards

Bishop Mark Edwards visited the school on Tuesday morning as part of his schedule visiting Parishes, Primary schools and Regional Colleges. Bishop Mark is the Regional Bishop of the Western region and the President of the Canonical Administrators of Catholic Regional College, Melton. Bishop Mark chairs our CRC Federation Council meetings and works closely with Fr Maurie Cooney whom he delegates many of the day to day duties of the CRC role.

Bishop Mark was escorted on a school tour by College Captains Evana Miesen and Dylan Hassan, and then addressed our Year 12 students during period one.

Pictured below is Bishop Mark with myself, Rebecca Cassar and Student Leaders, Ann Praveen-John, Swen Anthony, Ivana Meisen, Dylan Hassan and Luke Heaney.

Parents and Friends office bearers for 2019 are Jenny Machado (President) and Jane Seymour (Secretary).

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Child Safety

At CRC, we are committed to being a nurturing, child-safe school where children and young people are respected, their voices are heard and where they are safe and feel safe. Our commitment and responsibility to child safety is driven by Jesus Christ’s message of hope, love and care for all. Listed below are several strategies currently in place in our school designed to keep students safe and to effect positive student learning.

Examples of our school’s child safety work include:

• Example 1

All visitors must register with the front office before having access to the school grounds.

• Example 2

All teaching staff have recently completed The Protecting Children - Mandatory and other Reporting Obligations eLearning module.

All mandatory reporters must make a report to Victoria Police and/or DHHS Child Protection as soon as practicable if, during the course of carrying out their professional roles and responsibilities, they form a belief on reasonable grounds that: a child has suffered, or is likely to suffer, significant harm as a result of physical abuse and/or sexual abuse, and the child’s parents have not protected, or are unlikely to protect, the child from harm of that type.

I trust you will agree that we have undertaken much work in this space, and our school continues to reflect, review and improve our child safety strategies. Wellbeing and child safety is everyone’s responsibility. As always, we welcome your comments and would be happy to discuss any ideas or concern.

A full complement of the school’s child safety policies are on the school’s website.

School Photos

School photos are scheduled for the 30th of April. All students are to be in full winter uniform for the photos. If anyone needs to purchase winter uniform, extended hours during the holiday period have been organised.

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

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!

School Uniform - Term 2

Students are required to be wear their winter uniform from the start of Term 2. The requirements are set out below. 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, 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 - compulsory
• Tights - navy blue
• Socks - long navy blue
• Shoes - black leather lace up school shoes

Boys

• Blazer - compulsory, 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 - 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 child is wearing the College uniform correctly at all times.

Holiday Uniform Shop Hours

Melton             Tuesday 16th April at 11am to 3pm

Sydenham         Monday 15th April at 1pm - 5pm

                       Thursday 18th April at 8am - 11am

                       Saturday 20th April at 9am - 12pm

Thomastown     Monday - Friday at 9am - 5pm and Saturday 9am - 12pm

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. Students have experienced many opportunities for learning and other experiences including Camps, Sports days and excursions.

Term 1 Reports and Parent Student Teacher Interviews

Interim Reports and Parent Student Teacher Interview bookings are made via the Parent Portal. If you have any difficulty accessing the Portal, please contact the College office or email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au.

Parent Student Teacher Interviews will be held on:

• Tuesday, 2nd April Interviews: 4:00pm-7:00pm
• Thursday, 4th April Interviews: 4:00pm-8:30pm

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 interview times

Bookings for Tuesday evening are now closed. Bookings will open Wednesday morning until Thursday noon for Thursday evening appointments.

SACCSS Swimming

SACCSS Swimming Report

On Tuesday 26th March, 25 students competed in the SACCSS swimming competition at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. The students swam very well throughout the day. A special mention to our younger swimmers who swam in higher age groups and a big thank you to our senior swimmers who led the team. 

Congratulations to Alannah Morrow who won senior age group champion. Alannah came first in every event she entered.

James Morrow also won age group champion for the 15 year olds, an amazing effort by both the Morrows.

And a very special acknowledgement to Jack O'Rourke who helped CRC Sydenham multiclass swimmer Marcus who has cerebral palsy, get to the end of his race. We received this note from Annika Miesen, Head of Sport at CRC Sydenham:

"It was really huge for our multiclass student Marcus to compete in his two events today. Jack, your student, showed support and encouragement that went beyond any expectations. In both of Marcus’ races Jack walked alongside the pool deck and encouraged Marcus for the entire length of his races. In addition to this, at a moment where Marcus was getting visibly tired Jack jumped in the pool and swam alongside him to the very end. This act was on Jack’s own behalf, and it was incredible (I wish I had more adjectives to describe it). It was possibly the truest, most raw demonstration of sportsmanship many have seen. It was heart-warming to watch one young person from a different school truly support another young person. I think it is also something as a CRC Federation that we can be proud of. At the end of the day, it’s moments like these that epitomize what school sport is about and make it such a meaningful experience."

Our aggregate results for the day included intermediate Boys, Senior Girls and overall senior aggregate champions.

Book Reviews

Please note the Library will be open 15-17th April, 9am – 3pm over the school holidays.

You May Already Be a Winner, By Ann Dee Ellis

Twelve-year-old Olivia Hales has a foolproof plan for winning a million dollars so that she and her little sister, Berkeley, can leave behind Sunny Pines Trailer Park. The plan includes everything from designing a preschool curriculum for her sister since neither of them goes to school, fixing the swamp cooler and making dinner each night because their mum’s too busy, writing letters to her dad even though he hasn’t written back yet, and entering a minimum of fourteen sweepstakes a day. Although Olivia is being so brave and so strong, there’s one person she’s forgetting who needs to be taken care of too: herself. But who is going to do that? Luckily, somewhere deep down between her small intestine and stomach is a little pocket with a tiny voice reminding her that sometimes people can surprise you. Even the ones at dumb-bum Sunny Pines.

Fing, By David Walliams, Tony Ross (Illustrator)

Meet the Meeks! Myrtle Meek has everything she could possibly want. But everything isn’t enough. She wants more, more, more! When Myrtle declares she wants a FING, there’s only one problem… What is a FING? Mr and Mrs Meek will do anything to keep their darling daughter happy, even visit the spooky library vaults to delve into the dusty pages of the mysterious Monsterpedia. Their desperate quest leads to the depths of the jungliest jungle where the rarest creatures can be found. But will they ever find a FING? An explosively funny, totally surreal Tall Story about two perfectly nice parents and their unbelievably monstrous daughter from the phenomenal bestselling author David Walliams and illustrated by artistic genius, Tony Ross.

CRC Melton turns 40!

Can you help us? In preparation for the celebration of the College’s 40th Anniversary in 2020 we are seeking help from the broader community of ex-students, staff and parents. Part of our celebrations will involve documenting our school history to preserve it for the future and we are currently archiving photographs and artefacts important to understanding the story of the College. If you have stories you’d like to tell, or artefacts you’d consider sharing from your time here, we’d love to hear from you! It could be anything – photographs, reports, school assignments with comments from teachers, newsletters, newspaper clippings.  Anything that you feel helps to paint a picture of the life of the College over the years would be gratefully accepted, carefully documented and returned. If you think you might be able to help, or have a story to tell, please get in touch with Kezi Todd via email at ktodd@crcmelton.com.au.

Melton Food Bank

Thank you to families who donated food to our local Melton Food Bank. The College was overwhelmed with such a generous response.

Quartrefoils Restaurant

CRC Sydenham restaurant Quatrefoils is open for bookings between 6pm & 7.30pm. 3 course dinner $35 or 2 course $25.

See attached flyer for more information.

Quatrefoils.pdf

Upgrades to Melton Highway

In the lead up to the Federal election, Melton City Council is embarking on an important advocacy campaign calling on the Australian Government to upgrade the Western Highway to an urban freeway standard within the City of Melton.

Around 60,000 vehicles use the highway every day, with this figure expected to increase to 113,000 by 2031. In its current condition, the highway won’t cope with this increase in traffic, and needs urgent upgrades to meet the demands of this projected growth. Upgrades would include the construction of interchanges at Bulmans and Mt. Cottrell Roads, and a pedestrian overpass at Arnolds Creek. Additionally, the project will include road improvement works and the removal of at-grade infrastructure, like bus stops and driveways, between Deer Park and Melton West. Future planning will include additional lanes, an interchange at Harkness Road and an overpass at Paynes Road. These works will improve commuter safety, reduce congestion, and prevent the highway from becoming gridlocked in the next 20 years.

The upgrade will also positively impact the lives of tens of thousands of residents who will spend less time stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and more quality time with their families and friends.

Melton City Council is seeking your support to encourage community members to sign our online petition at //catchup.org.au/melton and get behind this campaign before the election, which is likely to take place in May.

If you require further information, please contact me at your convenience.

Sally Edwards

Lifelong Learning Officer | Melton City Council

MCC0147 A4 Poster_FA1(no bleed).pdf

Holiday Activities

Melton City Council

With Term 1 coming to a close, Melton City Council have a wide range of FREE activities for young people aged 12-25 years these April school holidays!

Registrations are essential and can be made at either Melton Youth Centre or Taylors Hill Youth and Community Centre.

Free activities on offer include boxing, cooking, 3v3 Basketball, Pool Party and Werribee Zoo!

For more information, please contact 9747 5423.

Thank you for supporting Melton Young Communities.

5km Fun Run

Join in the City of Melton’s 5km Fun run/walk around the Toolern Creek Trail. With all proceeds going to Hope Street, a crisis accommodation facility in Melton for young people experiencing homelessness. See attached flyer for more information.

Artists Collective of Melton Inc.

Artists Collective of Melton Inc. will be holding a number of workshops over the Autumn holidays. See attached flyer for more information.

Active April 2019 A4 Flyer.pdf
Melton Young Communities - FREE School Holilday Activities.pdf
Fun Run 2019 Flyer.pdf

Weekly Reflection

We Trust You Are There

Dear Lord,

We cannot see you but we trust that you are there.

We trust that you hold the world in the palm of your hand.

Help us to live every day with this perspective.

Help us to understand that faith is found in the small actions of kindness we make.

When we comfort the grieving, when give help to the homeless, we are declaring your victory.

Amen.

From the Principal

Visit to Al Iman

During Harmony Week, I accompanied Social Justice Coordinator Rebecca Cassar and five Student Leaders who visited the Muslim school in Melton South, Al Iman College.

They met with Brother Othman Abubakar and Mohammed Kahirul and conveyed sentiments to their Leaders in light of the terrorist attacks on the two mosques in Christchurch last Friday.

I read part of a letter from Archbishop Peter Comensoli.

“On behalf of the whole Catholic community of Melbourne, I wish to express our deeply felt shock at the massacre of 50 members of the Muslim community at the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Mosque in Christchurch during the Friday prayer services, and at the wounding of many more.

In our Churches around Melbourne on Sunday, local Catholic communities offered prayers for the families of the victims and the members of the Mosques, and indeed to the whole Muslim Community in New Zealand and Australia.

We condemn this senseless and vicious act. We condemn the hatred of migrants, which is a betrayal of the hospitality to the stranger. We condemn the hatred of the Muslim people, which is a repudiation of the family of Abraham. We condemn the racism, which is a repudiation of the dignity of all human beings created in the image of God.

You are our brothers and sisters.

The Catholic Church in Melbourne stands in solidarity with the Muslims of Melbourne and around Australia who are deeply distressed at this act of violence, and who may feel like strangers in their own land, and who may fear for their safety.”

The CRC Melton students read a poem written by Jinghan Naan and presented a native arrangement representing our Australian nature that we share. Othman and Mohammed presented each person with a plaque which highlights our shared creation and equality amongst all people.

Voice for Change

Last Saturday I had the pleasure of watching Shannon and Regina perform live at the Cultural Diversity Festival at Federation Square.

They have been mentored by the likes of Krown, Mo, P-UniQue and DJ Mat Cant as part of the Voice for Change program.

Shannon and Regina performed “Love", and then later Regina came back on stage to sing another song with Voice for Change participants.

Mr Christie and I enjoyed the experience and we look forward to them performing in our new Stadium.

Parents & Friends

I look forward to meeting with families this Wednesday night at the annual Parents and Friends AGM at 7pm. All welcome.

Mark Sheehan

Principal

NZ Poem_.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Students

School Photos

School photos are scheduled on 30th April. All students are to be in full winter uniform for the photos. If anyone needs to purchase winter uniform, extended hours during the holiday period have been organised.

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

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!

School Uniform - Term 2

Students are required to be wear their winter uniform from the start of Term 2, there is no transition period. The requirements are set out clearly below. 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, 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 - only be worn to and from the College if under the blazer
• Tie - compulsory
• Tights - navy blue
• Socks - long navy blue
• Shoes - black leather lace up school shoes

Boys

• Blazer - compulsory, 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 - 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 at all times.

Holiday Uniform Shop Hours

Melton             Tuesday 16th April at 11am to 3pm

Sydenham         Monday 15th April at 1pm - 5pm

                       Thursday 18th April at 8am - 11am

                       Saturday 20th April at 9am - 12pm

Thomastown     Monday - Friday at 9am - 5pm and Saturday 9am - 12pm

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Term 1 Reports and Parent Student Teacher Interviews

Interim Reports and Parent Student Teacher Interview bookings will open via the Parent Portal on Wednesday, 27th March. If you have any difficulty accessing the Portal, please contact the College office or email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au.

Parent Student Teacher Interviews will be held on:

• Tuesday, 2nd April Interviews: 4:00pm-7:00pm
• Thursday, 4th April Interviews: 4:00pm-8:30pm

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 interview times

Bookings close Monday, 1st April at 4:00pm.

Volleyschool is back

Students will be delighted to know that Volleyschool will be returning to CRC Melton commencing Thursday 2nd May in the new Stadium.

If you would like to see what Volleyschool is all about, come along for a free trial on Thursday 4th April from 4.30 pm to 6.00pm.

This year we hope to be running regular games for ALL members of the CRC Melton Community – current and ex-students, family members and staff. This will happen once we are able to establish a sufficient number of players to form enough teams for a regular competition. If you do not have a team, we will be able to find one for you.

Anybody interested in a regular Thursday night game of Volleyball is asked to email Michael Hill at mhill@crcmelton.com.au. These games would follow the Volleyschool program which finishes at 6.00pm.

Please see the attached flyer for costs and details. Feel free to contact Michael Hill if requiring more information.

Michael Hill

Volleyball Coach

WRV Volleyschool Costs 2019 Melton.pdf

Book Reviews

This Mortal Coil By Emily Suvada

When a lone soldier, Cole, arrives with news of Lachlan Agatta's death, all hope seems lost for Catarina. Her father was the world's leading geneticist, and humanity's best hope of beating a devastating virus. Then, hidden beneath Cole's gene hacked enhancements she finds a message of hope: Lachlan created a vaccine. Only she can find and decrypt it, if she can unravel the clues he left for her. The closer she gets, the more she finds herself at risk from Cartaxus, a shadowy organization with a stranglehold on the world's genetic tech. But it's too late to turn back. There are three billion lives at stake, two people who can save them, and one final secret that Cat must unlock. A secret that will change everything.

Pointe, Claw By Amber J. Keyser

A tale of magical realism in which two best friends, one who wants to be a professional ballerina and the other who is turning into a bear, confront society's narrow definition of what it means to be feminine and find a way to embrace the wildness in them. A brilliant, unique story that fearlessly jumps into the world of magical realism. Features two girls who come to embrace their strength and divergence from the norm. Shows the difficulty girls have in rejecting what society thinks they should be.

Test & Tag

Qualified CRC Sydenham students undertaking electrical studies that have completed the required industry standard are offering Test and Tag Certification. 

Individual Tags supplied for every item. See attached flyer for more information.

CRC Sydenham

Test n Tag.pdf

Weekly Reflection

St Patrick’s Breastplate Prayer

I bind unto myself today

The power of God to hold and lead,

His eye to watch, his might to stay,

His ear to hearken to my need.

The wisdom of my God to teach,

His hand to guide, his shield to ward;

The word of God to give me speech,

His heavenly host to be my guard.

Christ be with me, Christ within me,

Christ behind me, Christ before me,

Christ beside me, Christ to win me,

Christ to comfort and restore me.

Christ beneath me, Christ above me,

Christ in quiet, Christ in danger,

Christ in hearts of all that love me,

Christ in mouth of friend and stranger.

Amen

From the Principal

Christchurch Terrorist Attack

One cannot find words to express our horror and distress at a terrorist attack in two mosques in Christchurch on Friday, which saw at least 50 people killed.

The last few days have been filled with mixed emotions - shock, horror, lack of comprehension and grief. The tragedy of terrorism and right-wing extremism in New Zealand and the senseless loss of innocent people engaging in worship, many who them came to New Zealand seeking safety and freedom. Jacinda Ardern displayed incredible leadership speaking truth and compassion in the face of evil.

The Catholic Bishops of NZ wrote, “We hold you in prayer as we hear the terrible news of violence against Muslims at mosques in Christchurch.”

“We are profoundly aware of the positive relationships we have with Islamic people in this land, and we are particularly horrified that this has happened at a place and time of prayer."

“We are deeply saddened that people have been killed and injured, and our hearts go out to them, their families and wider community. We wish you to be aware of our solidarity with you in the face of such violence.”

 “We assure all New Zealanders, and in particular the Muslim community, of our heartfelt solidarity in the wake of these attacks. We also offer prayers and blessings to those injured, those grieving, those who died and emergency personnel."

“Words cannot convey our distress. Our prayers are with those who are suffering. I invite you now, wherever you are, alone or with family, workmates or friends, to pray together in the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi: Lord make me an instrument of your peace…”

On Monday morning, CRC Staff gathered in prayer for the victims and on Thursday a group of staff and students will visit Al Imar School, in Melton South in a show of support for their faith community. Attached is a copy of Archbishop Peter Comensoli’s letter to the Muslim Community addressing this tragedy.

VFC Live Performance at Cultural Diversity Festival

VFC Next Gen perform at Cultural Diversity Festival - Saturday 23rd March at Federation Square, 1:50pm-2:15pm.

Our fantastic students and mentors including Krown, Mo, P-UniQue and DJ Mat Cant showcase VFC tracks.

Hot off the back of their AO and NGV performances, VFC Next Gen are seriously honing their live performance skills.

See the following link for more information: http://fedsquare.com/events/victorias-multicultural-festival-2

Mark Sheehan

Principal

MESSAGE TO MUSLIM COMMUNITY 18MAR19.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Term 1 Reports and Parent Student Teacher Interviews

Interim Reports and Parent Student Teacher Interview bookings will open via the Parent Portal on Wednesday, 27th March. If you have any difficulty accessing the Portal, please contact the College office or email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au.

Parent Student Teacher Interviews will be held on:

• Tuesday, 2nd April Interviews: 4:00pm-7:00pm
• Thursday, 4th April Interviews: 4:00pm-8:30pm

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 interview times

Bookings close Monday, 1st April at 4:00pm.

End of Term 1/Start of Term 2

The last day of Term 1 is Thursday, 4th April. Classes will finish at the normal time of 3:20pm.

Term 2 will begin for all students on Tuesday, 23rd April. This will be Day 7 of our timetable.

Cultural Diversity Week

This week is Cultural Diversity Week, which is about celebrating our many backgrounds, and highlights respect and belonging for people of all races and cultures. We are more similar than we are different, and something shared across our cultures is having a meal and connecting with people. As a result of this common feature among families, the Social Justice Team have sourced a few recipes from a number of cultures, which we encourage you to try out in your homes. This recipe is a great one for dinner and makes for even tastier leftovers - https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/artichoke-aubergine-lamb-moussaka.

Further recipes will be posted on our Facebook page. 

Library Book Reviews

A Girl Like That by Tanaz Btathena

"A Girl Like That is unlike any YA book I've ever read: a fascinating and disturbing glance into the gender discrimination and double-standards as seen through the eyes of a teenage girl in Saudi Arabia. It raised awareness for me, and is certain to inspire discussion and raise questions about equality, justice, and basic human rights."

- Jodi Picoult, #1 NYT Bestselling Author of Small Great Things and Leaving Time

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott

Can you love someone you can never touch? Stella Grant likes to be in control—even though her totally out of control lungs have sent her in and out of the hospital most of her life. At this point, what Stella needs to control most is keeping herself away from anyone or anything that might pass along an infection and jeopardize the possibility of a lung transplant. Five feet apart. No exceptions. The only thing Will Newman wants to be in control of is getting out of this hospital. He couldn’t care less about his treatments, or a fancy new clinical drug trial. Soon, he’ll turn eighteen and then he’ll be able to unplug all these machines and actually go see the world, not just its hospitals. Will’s exactly what Stella needs to stay away from. If he so much as breathes on Stella she could lose her spot on the transplant list. Either one of them could die. The only way to stay alive is to stay apart. But suddenly five feet doesn’t feel like safety. It feels like punishment.

What if they could steal back just a little bit of the space their broken lungs have stolen from them? Would five feet apart really be so dangerous if it stops their hearts from breaking too?

Senior Girls Volleyball

St Patrick's Day Mass

Last Friday, Sr Mary Sarah, myself and 10 students attended the Catholic Education Week Mass for St Patrick’s Day at the Cathedral. Mass was a wonderful affair, with beautiful singing, bag pipes and banners of all attending school's, presided over by Archbishop Peter Comensoli for his very first time.

Humanities Kryal Castle Excursion

On the 8^th of March the Year 8s all went on an excursion to Kryal Castle where they learned new things about the Medieval times. There were many interactive activities across the day that students had the chance to participate in. On the day they learned about apothecary and medieval medicine and remedies. They also got to practise their accuracy in archery and got to shoot foam arrows in a dodgeball style game. They got to learn about medieval torture in a dungeon and they also learned about the different armour that was worn by the knights during combat. They found out about how the peasants lived and fought each other with foam swords in close quarters in medieval combat. The highlight of the day for the students was watching a medieval style jousting match. All the students had a terrific time learning about the past and couldn’t wait to learn more in class. It was a fun day and all the students enjoyed it.

Djerriwarrh Health Services News

Djerriwarrh Health Services is the public health service for the communities of Bacchus Marsh, Melton and Caroline Springs.

We are currently engaging with the community in preparation for our 5 year Strategic Plan and would like local families to complete the online survey via the attached flyer. 

Our aim is to receive feedback from as many groups within our community as possible. 

If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Andrea Agius

Executive Assistant to Chief Executive

StrategicPlan PosterA4.pdf

Kinship & Foster Care Education (KAFE) News

See attached Learning & Development Guide Calendar from Kinship & Foster Care Education (KAFE).

Carer_KaFE_2019_Calendar (2).pdf

Weekly Reflection

Lord, as we begin this holy season of Lent, grant us a change of heart that we might turn away from sin and follow your Son’s Gospel.  We ask you to fill us with a hunger for what is just.  By your grace, may our lives become more deeply rooted in prayer, self-sacrifice and a willingness to share.

In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus said to the disciples, “Beware of practising your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. 

So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others.  Truly I tell you, they have received their reward.  But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

From the Principal

2018 Academic Excellence Awards

At Thursday's school assembly, the 2018 Academic Excellence Award winners were acknowledged. Attached is a list of students who received awards.

NSIT School Review

The school is going through a three-day Review process this week using the NSIT model.

What is it?

Comprised of nine domains, the National School Improvement Tool (NSIT) assists schools to review and reflect on their efforts to improve the quality of teaching and learning.

Using an evidence-based framework, the NSIT supports school-wide conversations about aspects of current practice, areas for improvement and evidence that progress is being made. When used as an ongoing reference point over a period of time, the NSIT also provides a basis for monitoring long-term improvements in practice.

How can the NSIT help our school?

Research is revealing the powerful impact that school leadership teams can have in improving the quality of teaching and learning. The NSIT synthesises findings from international research into a practical framework that can be used to investigate and evaluate current practices in any Australian school.

By using the NSIT in the process of developing a School Improvement plan, schools can ensure they are adopting the practices displayed by highly effective schools and school leaders, and are supporting the development of their school improvement objectives with a solid base of evidence and research.

What areas does the tool address?

The National School Improvement Tool consists of nine interrelated domains, which combine and overlap to provide a comprehensive framework for school improvement:

• An explicit improvement agenda
• Analysis and discussion of data
• A culture that promotes learning
• Targeted use of school resources
• An expert teaching team
• Systematic curriculum delivery
• Differentiated teaching and learning
• Effective pedagogical practices
• School–community partnerships

Last Thursdays Incident

Please note that I communicated to all families via Care Monkey last week regarding an incident that occurred in the yard on Thursday at lunchtime.

If you did not receive that message, please email principal@crcmelton.com.au.

Mark Sheehan

Principal

Award winners.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Lock Down Drill

We had a change of plans at last Thursday's lock down drill as part of the College’s Emergency Management Plan. Students participated well and followed all instructions. We intend to run an Evacuation Drill late this term or early next.

Year 7 Camps

All the best to our Year 7's on camp next week from 18th - 21st March. All families have received information on CareMonkey. I am sure, that as in previous years, all Year 7 students will thoroughly enjoy their camp experience.

Library Book Reviews

Someday We Will Fly  By: Rachel DeWoskin

From the author of Blind, a heart-wrenching coming-of-age story set during World War II in Shanghai, one of the only places Jews without visas could find refuge. Warsaw, Poland. The year is 1940 and Lillia is 15 when her mother, Alenka, disappears and her father flees with Lillia and her younger sister, Naomi, to Shanghai, one of the few places that will accept Jews without visas. There they struggle to make a life; they have no money, there is little work, no decent place to live, and a culture that doesn't understand them. And always the worry about Alenka. How will she find them? Is she still alive? Meanwhile Lillia is growing up, trying to care for Naomi, whose development is frighteningly slow, in part from malnourishment.

Swing  By: Kwame Alexander, Mary Rand Hess

Things usually do not go as planned for seventeen-year-old Noah. He and his best friend Walt (aka Swing) have been cut from the high school baseball team for the third year in a row, and it looks like Noah's love interest since fifth grade, Sam, will never take it past the “best friend” zone. Noah would love to retire his bat and accept the status quo, but Walt has got big plans for them both, which include making the best baseball comeback ever, getting the girl, and finally finding cool. In Swing, bestselling authors Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess (Solo) present a free-verse poetic story that will speak to anyone who's struggled to find their voice, and take a swing at life.

Weekly Reflection

I Will Turn

Lord, I will turn,
Turn my face towards you.
I will lay before you the desert areas I hide
And turn to soak in your refreshing words of life.
I will cast aside the barren, selfish pursuits
And turn to rest in the tranquil warmth of your love.
I will draw back from the harsh pull of media
And turn to bathe in the gentle power of your Spirit.
Lord, today I turn my face towards you.

I will turn
To soak in your words of life,
To rest in the warmth of your love,
And to bathe in the power of your Spirit.

A Lenten prayer poem by Julie Palmer © 2018

From the Principal

Cardinal George Pell 

It’s been an extraordinary week of media for the Catholic Church in Melbourne with substantial print, electronic and social media coverage. My focus is towards the survivors of sexual abuse in the Church. Here is my prayer for them.

The following text for prayer was sent to Archbishop Diarmuid Martin by a person who suffered abuse so that it could be shared in parishes. 

Lord, we are so sorry
for what some of us did to your children:
treated them so cruelly,
especially in their hour of need.
We have left them with a lifelong suffering.
This was not your plan for them or us.
Please help us to help them.
Guide us, Lord, Amen.

This was written by a survivor of sexual abuse in Ireland . This prayer was inscribed on the healing stone which was unveiled at the 50th International Eucharistic Congress 2012 and now has its permanent home at Lough Derg, Co Donegal.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Evacuation Drill

As part of the College’s Emergency Management Plan, we will run on Evacuation Drill on the afternoon of Thursday 7th March. Please note that during the drill, access to the College will be restricted and students are not permitted to leave the grounds.

Labour Day Holiday

Next Monday, March 11 is Labour Day holiday.

End of Term Dates

Classes will finish on Thursday, April 4 at 3.20pm. The second evening of Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews will run that evening. Friday April 5th is a Staff Professional Learning Day.

Bacchus Marsh Coaches

Students catching most Bacchus Marsh Coaches are required to have and use a valid Myki card. Not only does Myki data provide information to the Victorian Transport Commission on bus usage, but the buses are not free. Non-use will result in 2 things:

1. Buses will be reduced in number as it appears they are not used or required

2. Bus drivers will refuse travel to students who do not have a valid Myki card.

We would expect all students to have and use a valid Myki. If not, they will need to find an alternate method to get to school.

Weekly Mass

Make plans this Lent to grow closer to God, strengthen your faith and begin your day with the Light of the World. Beginning on Ash Wednesday 6th March, Mass will be offered in the CRC Chapel at 8am on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. All families are welcome. The Chapel is located in the centre of campus with convenient parking nearby.

Library Book Reviews

Mallee Boys by Charlie Archbold

Sometimes I feel like I'm neither one thing nor another. I live in the Mallee but I don't like the desert. I live on a farm but I get hay fever and I'm scared of goats. I like school but my best mates don't. I'm stuck between stuff. It's like I'm not meant to be here but I am.

Sandy Douglas knows that life at fifteen is hard, but it's even harder when your mother died a year ago and nothing's gone right since. His brother Red, on the other hand, is eighteen now and working the farm. He's amped up on rage and always looking for a fight. And then there's their dad Tom. He does his best, but - really - he doesn't have a clue.

As Sandy and Red deal with girls, dirt biking, footy and friendship, both boys have to work out who they want to be, without their mum around. The Mallee, where they live, may seem like the middle of nowhere, but it turns out this is going to be one hell of a year.

The House with a Clock in Its Walls by John Bellairs

Lewis Barnavelt doesn't have time on his side. When Lewis Barnavelt, an orphan, comes to stay with his uncle Jonathan, he expects to meet an ordinary person. But he is wrong. Uncle Jonathan and his next-door neighbour, Mrs Zimmermann, are both witches! Lewis couldn't be happier. What's not to like about seeing his uncle practise spells and eating Mrs Zimmermann's delicious cookies? At first, watching magic is enough. Then Lewis experiments with magic himself and unknowingly resurrects the former owner of the house: a woman named Selenna Izard. It seems that evil Selenna and her husband built a timepiece into the walls - a clock that could obliterate humankind.

As the clock can be heard ticking away in the house all the time, sometimes louder, sometimes quieter, sometimes faster, sometimes slower, it is up to the Barnavelts to find where it is hidden in the walls - and stop it. A true race against time...

GADAL Camp

Last week, the Year 9 students went on camp as part of the Rite Journey program. Female students went to Halls Gap, and male students went to Rose’s Gap. The focus of the camps was for students to forge and develop friendships, learn new skills and to face some challenges in order to bond as a Rite Journey group. Below are some student recounts from their time at camp:

Year 9 camp in 2019 is not one you would want to miss. It involves three days filled with petrifying and exhilarating activities that push your limits. Abseiling was one activity that contained terrifying heights, but I have to admit that it was definitely worth the climb to see the spectacular view of the Grampians. Before facing the challenge to walk backwards off a very large rock, not only were we pushed mentally as individuals but also as a group. We took the initiative course where we all worked together to solve impossible challenges, tempers were on the urge of blowing and red heads were ready to pop out. But once we conquered the activities, there was no greater feeling to know that we didn’t give up. Even though the activities will not be forgotten anytime soon, the highlight was the bond that we formed as a Rite Journey group, not just during events but throughout the camp.

Abby Timms

What I enjoyed about camp was the raft building and the canoeing and then going in for a swim afterwards. I also liked the hiking and the giant swing because the hike was enjoyable and the giant swing had a nice view. Most of the food was good, we loved the lasagna and the wraps were pretty good as well.

As the point of this camp was to learn about the people in our Rite Journey group we switched cabins on the second night so that way we got to know the people in the other cabins. Another point of the camp was to challenge us, and try new things for example the giant swing, or the abseiling.

Another way we got to know our groups on the first night was we completed activities to work together to solve a problem in less than five minutes. On the second night we had a trivia night, so we would spend more time with our groups and work together and listen to others to work out the answers. Mr Gavran’s group won but everyone else tried and did well. Overall this camp was a success and we got to know and learn about the people in our group.

Jayden Tabone

2019 European Tour

Information Evening

For families who have a student or students attending the 2019 Tour, there will be a final information evening on Thursday 7th of March at 7:00pm in the PAC.

If you have any questions you would like addressed for the group, please contact Carissa Lock (clock@crcmelton.com.au) or Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au).

Vacancy

There is one position available for the European Tour which will run from 4th April - 27th April, 2019 touring Poland and Italy.

The position is available to students who are currently in Years 9-12. The cost of the Tour is $6,900 which includes flights, transfers, accommodation, breakfasts and some dinners, activities, museum and other site entries, guides and insurance.

Please contact Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au) if you would like more information. Applications will be treated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Canteen News

It’s Ash Wednesday this week so there will be no meat foods sold on Wednesday.

We have included other food options so you will still have plenty of food to choose from, only available this Wednesday. Options include:

• Margarita Pizza
• Fish Burger – crumbed fish with lettuce and tartare sauce
• Potato wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce
• Fish bites
• Cheese sticks

You can order these items online by searching ‘Ash Wed’ in the menu and then selecting your preference.

Our regular vegetarian options are, of course, still available so you can choose from pastizzis, hash browns, veggie burger, rice paper rolls, dip packs, salads and sandwiches.

Our full menu is now available on the CRC website under your PAM account.

Melton Food Bank

The College is welcoming donations for our local Melton community food bank. The following items are in demand; tinned spaghetti, tinned vegies, jam, peanut butter etc., baked beans, tinned fruit, pasta sauce, tomato sauce, longlife milk. They do not need the following as they have lots of stock - pasta, rice, 2 min noodles, oats and drinks.

Please leave items at front reception if you would like to make a donation.

2019 Youth Grants & Awards

Individual grants up to $500 are available for 12-25 year olds in support of the following categories:

• Arts
• Sports
• Social Civic Responsibilities
• Leadership & Environment
• Sustainability Issues

Please see attached flyer for more information.

Katriona Gauci

City of Melton

2019 Grants & Awards.pdf

Centre for Multicultural Youth

The Centre for Multicultural Youth (CMY) now has an office in Melton with a number of great opportunities for youth and their families from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Community Support Group (CSG) offers support for families from South Sudanese background and has a range of services on offer including: school holiday programs, skills training, sports and recreation, volunteering, youth mentoring and leadership. Please contact Program Coordinator Elizabeth Majok for more details. Email: emajok@cmy.net.au

Elizabeth Majok

Program Coordinator

Brochure 2019.pdf

Dream Big Party in the Park

Linking Melton South and Festival For Healthy Living are currently planning for another free Dream Big family friendly event in the Mt Carberry Reserve in Melton South on the 29th of March. The event aims to celebrate art, culture and diversity in our local community.

Also attached is the Expression of Interest Form to get involved in the event – including running an activity, a stall, volunteering on the day, music and performance.

See attached flyers for more information.

Benjamin Taylor

Health Promotion Officer, Djerriwarrh Health Services

Dream Big EOI 2019.docx
DREAM BIG PARTY IN THE PARK_newsletter.docx
Poster DBPIP_screen.jpg
DBPIP flyer_a5.pdf

Eynesbury Eagles Football Netball Club

Our new and growing club are looking for children of all ages to join our teams to encourage physical activity, health and wellbeing while making friends and belonging to an inclusive club.

Contact Angela on 0421 793 390 if you are interested in joining.

Angela Berry

Eynesbury Eagles Football Netball Club

Eynesbury Eagles.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Blessed are those invited to the banquet of the kingdom.

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit: the reign of God is theirs.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed too are the sorrowing: they shall be consoled.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed are the lowly; they shall inherit the land.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for holiness;

they shall have their fill.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed are they who show mercy; mercy shall be theirs.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed are the single-hearted for they shall see God.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed too are the peacemakers; they shall be called Sons of God.’

Lord Jesus, you said, ‘Blessed are those persecuted for holiness’ sake;

the reign of God is theirs.’

Amen.

(Adapted from Source: Lucien Deiss)

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Melbourne University Excursion

A group of Year 11 and 12 students had the great opportunity to attend Melbourne University last week. This afforded them the opportunity to be able to obtain new knowledge about the life of University and the various courses that are offered there. Furthermore, we are very grateful that we were able to meet and interact with experienced university students. Overall, as a group we highly recommend younger year levels to get a glimpse of the nature of university. We would like to thank Mr. Blackley, Ms. Daphne and Simma Maniel for giving us the opportunity to attend the excursion to Melbourne University.

Student Performances - Mushroom Group

Year 10 students Regina Laumata and Shannon Tuilaepa performed at the National Gallery Victoria Teens Arts Party on Saturday 16th February, which was a huge success, according to the Project Coordinator, Aspen Clarke.

Whilst Adrian Eagle headlined the night, the VFC Next Gen kids rocked the show, with amazing feedback from VFC staff. 

Voice For Change is excited to present the video for the inspired track ‘BE’. Written during VFC school’s music development workshops late 2018, ‘BE’ is the final result of hours of work, passion, experience and drive from our future star teen mentees and produced by Nic Martin. The track Be was performed at the Australian Open and the NGV Teen Art Party.

Watch ‘BE’ by VFC Next Gen. ‘BE’ was debuted by VFC students at the Australian Open and recently at the NGV Teen Art Party alongside Voice For Change mentors Adrian Eagle & Known.

Please see links to view/listen below:

·        ‘BE’ video clip:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/voiceforchangevic/videos/563648074112822/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYbeKnxm934

·        Voice for Change tracks: https://soundcloud.com/voiceforchange

Listen to the track ‘Love’ written and performed by our students Regina Laumata, Shannon Tuilaepa and Hanamoa Maiava

Student Wellbeing/Welfare

A number of resources are available to schools and parents to support students to be resilient, responsible and respectful adults and protect students.  See below for two valuable resource sites

www.esafety.gov.au, a valuable resource that promotes online safety including tackling image-based abuse and a complaints service for young people who experience serious cyberbullying. If students are subject to online bullying they need to report it to you, a trusted adult or to their teachers so that we can support them. You may have read newspaper reports recently of a site called Momo, it is an alleged form of cyberbullying that spreads through social media and cell phones. After phone users are enticed to contact a user named "Momo", they receive graphic threats from the user and are instructed to perform a series of dangerous tasks.

www.studentwellbeinghub.edu.au, a resource to support students, parents and teachers to create a learning environment that promotes student wellbeing and the development of respectful relationships.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Information Evening

Thanks to all parents/guardians who attended the Year 12 Information evening.

Camps

Our Year 8 and Year 9 camps finish this week. We look forward to the VCAL Camp next week and our Year 7 Camps starting 18th March. Families will have received information through CareMonkey regarding both these activities.

Bacchus Marsh Coaches

Students catching most Bacchus Marsh Coaches are required to have and use a valid Myki card. Not only does Myki data provide information to the Victorian Transport Commission on bus usage, but the buses are not free. Non-use will result in 2 things:

1. Buses will be reduced in number as it appears they are not used or required

2. Bus drivers will refuse travel to students who do not have a valid Myki card.

We would expect all students to have and use a valid Myki. If not, they will need to find an alternate method to get to school.

From the Director of Learning

As we progress into the fourth week of the academic year, students should turn their attention to an exploration of what academic success will look like for them. Is it a concentrated effort on lifting a particular subject result by 10%? Or ensuring home study is completed every night?  It may even be making more of an effort to ask questions in class. Or is it simply being more engaged in class and enjoying the learning journey they are on?  Whatever the action/s may be for each student, the belief that all students at CRC Melton are capable of achieving academic success is strong amongst teachers and students alike.

Robert Collier once said 'Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in day out'. How does this quote relate to the academic success of our students? Upon speaking with our VCE high achievers each year, the importance of small efforts, repeated over and over again from Years 7 to 12 is always mentioned.  Small efforts such as having the required materials for class, being on time, developing a program of regular revision at home and seeking out teachers when help is needed are some examples. When small efforts such as these are repeated over and over they become a habit, making the achievement of each student's academic goals a satisfying reality.

One small effort repeated day in, day out that leads to academic success is the ability to meet a set deadline. When students are set a due date for a task, be it a basic homework activity or a major piece of assessment, the expectation is that the due date will be met. The teaching staff will always ensure ample time is given for the completion of each task, however if students leave the task till the last minute or use their class time inappropriately they may find it very difficult and stressful to submit the work on time. Careful planning of one’s workload and a consistent effort over time to complete tasks is always required. 

At times, careful planning and consistent effort will be applied but an extension of time may be required due to family circumstances, unexpected incidences or illness. Extensions may be granted by the subject teachers of Years 7 to 10 students if appropriate documentation, such as a medical certificate or a parent letter outlining a significant issue is supplied. For Units 1, 2, 3 and 4 subjects, extensions are not so simple and cannot be granted without a medical certificate. The VCE Coordinator, Mrs Carrisa Lock, and the relevant Year Level Coordinators will be able to give advice to VCE students in such a position.

Attached are the College's Late Submission of Major Assessment Tasks procedures as well as the Non Completion of Homework procedure for Years 7 to 10 students. You will note parent contact will be made by the subject teachers in both instances to ensure that we are all working together to support your student's learning journey and their achievement of academic success. 

Narelle Layton

Director of Learning

Homework Tasks Year 7-10.pdf
Major Assessment Tasks Yr 7-10.pdf

Weekly Mass

Make plans this Lent to grow closer to God, strengthen your faith and begin your day with the Light of the World. Beginning on Ash Wednesday, 6th March, Mass will be offered in the CRC Chapel at 8am on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. All families are welcome. The Chapel is located in the centre of campus with convenient parking nearby.

Languages News

A friendly reminder that all Year 7 and 8 students studying Italian need to now have their ECCO UNO Italian ebook downloaded on their iPad along with their Education Perfect app. Both resources will be used in Italian classes and homework will be set in due course on the Education Perfect app. If there are any  questions, please do not hesitate to relay them to your child’s Italian teacher.

2019 European Tour

Information Evening

For families who have a student or students attending the 2019 Tour, there will be a final information evening on Thursday 7th of March at 7:00pm in the PAC.

If you have any questions you would like addressed for the group, please contact Carissa Lock (clock@crcmelton.com.au) or Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au).

Vacancy

There is one position available for the European Tour which will run from 4th April - 27th April, 2019 touring Poland and Italy.

The position is available to students who are currently in Years 9-12. The cost of the Tour is $6,900 which includes flights, transfers, accommodation, breakfasts and some dinners, activities, museum and other site entries, guides and insurance.

Please contact Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au) if you would like more information. Applications will be treated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Melton City Council News

Community Road Safety Forum

Melton City Council are running a free event for all young drivers and parents of drivers. Improve your knowledge about road rules and avoid being part of road trauma.

The Community Road Safety Forum will be held on 21st March at Lakeview Secondary College.

To register, visit the Melton Learning Website: meltonlearning.com.au/event/community-road-safety-forum/ or see attached flyer for more information.

Carly Billingham 

Acting Community Support Officer | Melton City Council

ReSET Program

Melton City Council, Family Services and Youth Services will be running the ReSET Program commencing on Thursday 14th March at Melton Youth Services, 193 Barries Road, Melton.

The ReSET Program is based on “Step Up” a program which aims to build respectful family relationships. ReSET aims to work with both the young person and their parent/s or carer/s. It is an early intervention program which uses cognitive behavioural exercises, solution focused and problem solving techniques. This program aims to assist young people, their parents and carers to reflect on their negative interactions and develop strategies towards respectful behaviours.   

The program is free and is suitable for any parent and young people. A light supper will be provided. See attached flyer for more information.

Georgina Briffa

Family Support Worker | Melton City Council

iPlay Youth Program

The Melton City Council’s Leisure team provides a free sports program on Monday from 3:30pm-5:30pm at the Melton Indoor Recreation Centre. This program is designed to increase activity levels and for students to gain new connections. See attached flyer for more information.

Tarleah Young

Sports Program Officer | Melton City Council

MEL 1346 A4 Safety Flyer.pdf
ReSET Flyer 2019.pdf
iPlay Flyer 2019.pdf

The Future of Work @ Melton Library

Automation and artificial intelligence are rapidly changing how we work. Join us as Dr Jude Walker, labour market specialist, provides a no-nonsense insight into how emplyment will change over the next ten years and how to prepare for it.

The Future of Work presentation will be held on Monday 4 March @ 6-7pm - Melton Library. Bookings are essential: Visit Melton City Website or call 9747 5300

Future of Work Flyer (1).jpg

Weekly Reflection

Teach Me to Listen

Teach me to listen, O God, to those nearest me,

my family, my friends, my co-workers.

Help me to be aware that no matter what words I hear,

the message is, ‘Accept the person I am. Listen to me.’

Teach me to listen, my caring God, to those far from me –

the whisper of the hopeless, the plea of the forgotten,

the cry of the anguished.

Teach me to listen, O God my Mother, to myself.

Help me to be less afraid to trust the voice inside –

in the deepest part of me.

Teach me to listen, Holy Spirit, for your voice –

in busyness and in boredom,

in certainty and doubt, in noise and in silence.

Teach me, Lord, to listen. Amen.

-Fr John Veltri, S.J

From the Principal

2018 VCE and VCAL Achievers Assembly

On Tuesday morning we hosted an Assembly for our High Achievers from the Year 12 class of 2018.

It was great to see our students back with their families and hear how their University/TAFE/ work prospects are shaping up for this year.

Ethan Trethowan, our College Dux for 2018, made a terrific acceptance speech, a copy of which is attached.

We look forward to seeing our Year 12 2018 students again when we host a BBQ for them on Wednesday 27th February.

Official Opening of Sports Stadium

I can now confirm the date for the Official Opening of the Sports Stadium being:

Tuesday May 28 at 9.15am.

Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Mark Edwards, Auxiliary Bishop to Western Region.

Please note the date in your diary with more details to follow.

Mark Sheehan

Principal

Year 12 DUX Speech.pdf

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

Swimming Sports Day

We are holding our inter-house swimming sports next Tuesday, 19th February at Melton Waves. This is a normal school day, therefore all students are required to be in attendance. The Student Leaders will be running a BBQ and drink stall throughout the day. Students are not permitted to organise a food/lunch delivery from outside businesses, e.g. pizza. If they do so, the food will be confiscated and then available for pick up at the end of the day.

It is most important that students come well prepared to avoid being sunburnt. Each student should have now purchased the CRC cap as part of their uniform. Sunscreen will be available on the day and students will be reminded to be sun smart. Students also need to wear swimwear that is appropriate for a school swimming sports competition and not the beach. Year 12 students are the only year level not required to wear their PE uniform as they have a dress up theme. All other year levels are required to wear their PE uniform to and from the Swimming Carnival.

Attendance

I remind parents/guardians that on the occasion that your child will be late or absent from school, 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 and shown to the student’s Homeroom teachers on their return.

All students who arrive to 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.

Phones at School

Staff have been enforcing the policy of confiscating phones from students if they have them out during the school day, much to the annoyance of students. However, staff have commented more students are engaged in more physical activities or conversation with their peers at lunchtime and recess. I spoke to one student when returning her phone at the end of the day, asking how she went not having her phone, she responded, "I got some work done because I wasn't distracted". 

Student Performances

Two of our Year 10 students Regina Laumata and Shannon Tuilaepa recently performed live on stage at the Australian Open on Sunday January 13. This came as a result of the students participating in music workshops run by the Mushroom Group late last year. Their performances were incredibly well-received to a sold out audience and they have secured another performance opportunity.

In terms of the next performance opportunity, along with other Voice for Change student participants, Regina and Shannon will be performing at the NGV Teens Arts Party next Saturday 16th February at NGV Melbourne. This is another fantastic opportunity to showcase the original tracks they recorded in January, which are set for release Friday 22nd February.

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?

2019 European Tour

Information Evening

For families who have a student or students attending the 2019 Tour, there will be a final information evening on Thursday 7th of March at 7:00pm in the PAC.

If you have any questions you would like addressed for the group, please contact Carissa Lock (clock@crcmelton.com.au) or Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au).

Vacancy

There is one position available for the European Tour which will run from 4th April - 27th April, 2019 touring Poland and Italy.

The position is available to students who are currently in Years 9-12. The cost of the Tour is $6,900 which includes flights, transfers, accommodation, breakfasts and some dinners, activities, museum and other site entries, guides and insurance.

Please contact Paul Iannazzo (piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au) if you would like more information. Applications will be treated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fiesta for a Farmer Fundraiser - The End Result

Last year we raised funds for our struggling farmers. The money was distributed by The Country Women's Association in White Cliffs NSW. We received these wonderful pictures which show the children of the surrounding farming communities enjoying a Christmas celebration which was supported by our fundraiser. These children attend School of the Air in NSW. Thanks to everyone who supported our fundraiser.  

Melton Phoenix Soccer Club

Melton Pheonix is a not for profit local community club seeking junior players of all abilities to participate in the sporting activity of soccer. We pride ourselves as being a family friendly club that is all inclusive, in a fair, safe and supporting environment.  

If you would like more information, please contact Emily on 0437 310 194.

2020 Rotary Youth Exchange

Exchange Program

Are you a Year 9, 10 or 11 student?  You may qualify as a Rotary Youth Exchange Student and have the opportunity to live and study in Germany, France, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Taiwan, Brazil, Hungary, Norway, Spain, Poland, or Switzerland.

The Rotary Youth Exchange Program is a unique opportunity for students to experience the culture of a new country, to learn a new language and develop new friendships.

Applications are now being accepted and close on Sunday 7th April 2019.  Students must be under the age of 17 years and 6 months, as at 1st January in the year of departure.

Further information is available from -

www.rotaryyouthexchangedistrict9800.com.au

Rotary Youth Exchange Victoria (RYEV) – encompassing all Rotary districts in Victoria – is approved by the Victorian Registration and Qualification Authority (VRQA) to provide secondary student exchange programs into and from Victoria.

Host Families Invited Now

Rotary Youth Exchange invites kind and caring Host Families within the community to assist local Rotary Clubs offering an outstanding exchange program to young people from all over the World.

A Host Family is a vital part of this cultural and educational exchange and typically hosts a student on a voluntary basis for a period of between 10 to 16 weeks. In doing so, a Host family officially becomes a Friend of Rotary International. The Host Family plays an integral role in offering the student the experience of a new culture and language, whilst at the same time learning itself about a different culture from a young leader. It is a direct window to the world for all members of a Host family.

You not only share a young person’s hopes and dreams, but more importantly, you make those dreams possible. Hosting is the beginning of a lifelong friendship and connection with a student and family overseas. Whilst it can be challenging to help a young person transition to a new culture and ease into the surroundings, it is always fun and the rewards are immeasurable.

Host Families in the Rotary Youth Exchange program come in many shapes and sizes! Young children, older children, and no children at all, extended families and older generations – all have been successful in hosting exchange students.

Please consider this amazing and rewarding opportunity now. Enquiries are most welcome.

Gabrielle Morgan

YE School Poster 2020.pdf

Weekly Reflection

The Journey Begins

As we step into this new year, Restore our spirits.

Renew our passion for sharing your wisdom

And nurture our compassion

For those in need of greater support.

Transform us as we seek to transform:

Guide us as we seek to guide;

Open our minds and hearts

As we seek to open minds and hearts

To the Good News of justice and peace.

Help us listen more deeply

To the world and to your Word,

So we can walk with those in our care,

Attentive to the Wisdom that

Calls us all to the Kingdom of God.

(Adapted from a prayer by Jane Deren (http://www.educationforjustice.org)

From the Principal

Welcome back to the 2019 school year and a special welcome to all new students, families and staff to CRC Melton. In addition to the new Year 7 cohort, we have 14 new students in Years 8-11.

Welcome to the following new staff members:

• Sarah Rogers - Mathematics/VCAL
• Kristina Stefanovska – Food Technology
• Sam Tammaro - Mathematics/VCAL
• Steven Woolmer – Accounting/Business Management
• Kaylee Jones –Physical Education
• Daniel Smith – Physical Education
• Kristina Hefter – Food Technology Assistant
• Boden Mugridge – Sports Trainee
• Nadia Blanco – Arts Trainee
• Olivia Rabottini - Administration Trainee

We also welcome back Bernadette Lawrence and Gemma Pentony from Maternity Leave.

Staff PD – Andrew Fuller

Last Wednesday, the staff at CRC Melton had the opportunity to work with Andrew Fuller in the lead up to the 2019 academic year. Andrew is a renowned clinical psychologist who has established programs in thousands of schools on neuroscience for education, as well as student wellbeing and mental health. The day focused on resilience, and how to increase resilience in our students. Andrew shared a wealth of knowledge and expertise on brain based teaching, including how students learn, the growth mindset and how we can improve a student’s sense of belonging and ability to form positive relationships in our College.  

Sports Stadium

We were hoping to host a whole school assembly in the new Sports Stadium on Monday morning, but alas it wasn’t quite ready for use. Parents are welcome to join us in our first gathering in the new facility on Thursday 21st February when we celebrate our Opening School Mass at 12 noon.

Policy on mobile phones in classroom

Mr Blackley announced to all students during Monday’s Year Level Assemblies the ban on using mobile phones at school between 8:45am and 3:20pm. Schools across Australia have introduced this policy as it helps students focus on their learning in the classroom and also reduces the opportunity for cyberbullying in the school yard at recess and lunchtime. More information regarding this can be found in the Deputy Principal (Students) section of this newsletter.

I wish you all the best for the 2019 school year.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Welcome back to the 2019 school year and congratulations to our students, who have settled in well to their 2019 classes. 

We are continuing to look at upgrading our facilities for students. We hope to have our new Sports Stadium open in the coming weeks, however students are now able to access the two new outside Basketball courts. We are continuing the construction of our Resource Centre, which we anticipate will 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, and whilst having a disabled sticker, have quite able students arriving or going. With only two Disabled spots we ask that families support us and give priority to those students who need the close access. As the entire area is extremely busy at both the start and end of school times, I also ask that families drive slowly and carefully. 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 the College know if you have any concerns.

Years 7 and Year 9  Information Evenings

I look forward to meeting Year 9 parents/guardians this Wednesday, 6th February and Year 7 parents/guardians next Wednesday, 13th February at our Information Evenings.

Year 9 – 12 Subject Changes

All Years 9-12 students undertook a thorough selection process last year and VCE students undertook our Jumpstart program. VCE students must see Mrs Dickson before any changes will be authorised and no changes will be made after this week unless there are exceptional circumstances. Changes for Semester Two electives at Years 9 & 10 will be considered closer to the start of Term 3.

From the Deputy Principal (Students)

Student Welfare

On behalf of the student welfare team and Year Level Coordinators, I would like to welcome all students and their families to the 2019 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 2019

Our theme for this year is an extension of what we started last year, that being resilience. Our focus will be on how we as individuals and as a community show through our thoughts and actions empathy and compassion to others. Activities, programs and events, e.g. Celebration Day, will be centred around the themes of empathy and compassion.

Phone Use at School

We accept that parents give their children mobile phones to protect them from everyday risks involving personal security and safety. There is also increasing concern about children travelling alone on public transport or commuting long distances to school. lt is acknowledged that providing a child with a mobile phone gives parents reassurance that they can contact their child if they need to speak to them urgently.

There is also concern about students using their phones inappropriately at school to film and post images, bully other students online or be distracted in class thus impacting on their learning. 

A change has been made to the use of phones by students whilst at school.  I spoke to all year levels today informing them of the reasons for the change in policy. These were firstly, the focus in the classroom is on learning and mobile phones are a distraction when students check or send messages to their peers or post on social media whilst in class. Secondly, the phones can and are used to bully or intimidate others and finally students might actually engage in conversation directly with their peers at recess and lunchtime.

Acceptable Use of Mobile Phones

1. Students are not permitted to use their phones at school between homeroom and 3:20pm. Phones are to be kept in their lockers throughout these times, this includes recess and lunchtimes. 

2. Mobile devices may only be used during school times if authorised by College Staff; this includes school excursions, camps and extra-curricular activities (unless the excursion guidelines stipulate that mobile devices are not permitted).

3. Non-observance or breaches of these rules will result in the mobile phone being confiscated for the day and collected from the College Office at the end of the day. A second confiscation will result in the student’s phone being locked in the College safe overnight and collected the next day. A third breach will require parent collection of the phone from the College Office.

4. Parents are reminded that in cases of emergency, the College Office remains a vital and appropriate point of contact and can ensure your child is reached quickly, and assisted in any appropriate way.

5. Any student who is feeling unwell at school and needs to go home must arrange this through the College Office. In some situations, students may need to contact home or parents and it is possible for this to occur in the presence of their Level Coordinator or a Deputy Principal. Any arrangements to leave school must be made through the College Office.

School Uniform - Term 1:

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 their level assemblies this 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, other than ear piercings, are not permitted. 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 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, e.g. College Mass, VCE Awards Ceremony. Students must wear their blazer if they decide to wear their jumper to school as the blazer is the external garment.

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/guardians that on occasions, your child will be late or absent you are asked to contact the College in advance on (03) 8099 6000 and follow the prompt to record your child’s absence (Option 1).  A note in the College diary needs to be provided and 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 absent causing unnecessary confusion and distress.

From the Director of Learning

A very warm welcome to the 2019 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 2018 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      120-150 minutes (6 evenings per week)
• Year 12      150-180 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 student's 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 2019. 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 the student's choice. 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 that students have full access to if they have a library card. Please visit the Melton Library with your student for more information.

Canteen News

Welcome back to 2019. Our Summer Menu continues and will be uploaded onto the relevant College portals shortly. In the meantime you can pick up a copy of our menu at the College Office or at the Canteen.

The online ordering system worked well last year so we have continued to use the Ultimate Schools app. If you have not set up an account, it is easy to do so, Simply Google Ultimate Schools and follow the prompts under ‘Create an Account’.

Once you have registered and loaded some money onto your account, you can begin to place your lunch orders via this system. Orders need to be placed by 9:00am for that day.

If you have any difficulties with setting up or logging into your account, you can contact Ultimate Schools directly on (03) 9020 1473.

The Ultimate ordering system is easy to use, and it means you do not need to have cash on you to place an order. You can also pre-order your lunches days or weeks in advance. If you need further information, you can pick up a flyer from the canteen or the office.

If you are unable to use the online ordering system, you can still place your lunch order directly at the Canteen with your paper bag and cash. We accept lunch orders up until the end of Recess.

All lunch orders are to be picked up from the Canteen at the start of lunch time. The first 5 minutes of lunch is reserved for serving lunch orders. So, if you place a pre-order, not only are you guaranteed to get what you would like but you also get priority service!

We’re looking forward to serving you delicious food again this year.

Melton’s Young Communities

Please see attached Melton’s Young Communities Term 1 FREE Program, available to the young people of our school.

A brief description of each program and flyers are attached. Should any families require further information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me or the workers listed on the program flyer.

Stephanie Serret

Youth Development Officer | Melton City Council

Job HQ Flyer.pdf
Life Skills FLYER.pdf
Melton Explorers FLYER.pdf
Graphic Design Flyer.pdf
FREEZA FLYER 2019.pdf
Girls Night Out Flyer.pdf
Flyer Crafternoon Tuesday.pdf
Cooking Flyer.pdf
Embrace Flyer.pdf
Tags Out flyer.pdf
No restrictionz Flyer.pdf
Melton Communities Program - Term 1.pdf

Foster Care Information Session

As you are probably aware there is a great need for Foster Carers in our local community. Anglicare Victoria is holding an information session at Melton South on 7th February to raise awareness in the Community.

Please download the flyer for further details.

Deb Lord-Webster

Volunteer Recruitment & Support Worker | Anglicare Victoria

2019 VR&S West Info session Feb 2019.pdf

Community Basketball Program

Reclink Melton and Specialist Hoops are excited to deliver our Community Basketball Program to engage our youth.

We welcome youth from 12 to 18 years old of all genders to participate and develop new skills and make new friends in a friendly environment.

For more information please don’t hesitate to contact me for assistance.

Address: 159 Coburns Road, Melton (Melton Recreation Centre)

Day & Time: 5pm - 6pm, Wednesdays

Michael Walsh

Reclink Sports Coordinator

COMMUNITY BASKETBALL (3).pdf

Weekly Reflection

A Prayer for Advent

God of this Advent time

As we watch, wait, long and hope,

Awaken our hearts to you presence

Encourage us in our efforts to listen humbly to each other

Inspire in us the words to speak boldly with each other

Create within us a spirit of discernment

Give us hopeful hearts as we continue our journey through Advent

We ask this in the name of Emmanuel, God with us.

Amen

From the Principal

Christmas 2018

The end of the 2018 school year is upon us and our thoughts turn to preparations for Christmas and the school holidays.

Advent is a time in the Church’s year when we can focus on the important things in our lives, our family and friends, people less fortunate than ourselves. In particular, we think of  those afflicted by hunger and homelessness, and those people for whom Christmas is a lonely or stressful time and offer our thoughts and our prayers that they too may enjoy this wonderful time of the year. We hope and pray that all in our community will be able to spend some valuable time with their families this Christmas break.

Let us learn from Nazareth that the formation received in the family home is so important and that family life, which is a communion of love, has a sacred character.     

May parents, staff and students of CRC Melton school comunuity experience the gift of peace this Christmas and may that peace of Christ endure in your hearts and minds throughout the coming year.

I have included an attachment from Pope Francis on 2018 Advent.

Mark Sheehan

Principal

Pope Francis on Advent 2018.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

College Awards Evening

Our College Awards evening will take place this Wednesday, 5th December at TabCorp Park. Students nominated for an award are to be in Full Winter Uniform and to arrive at 6.30pm.

As this is out last newsletter for 2018, I would like to wish all families a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. I thank you for your support in 2018 and look forward to a successful 2019 together.

Year 7-9 End of Year Dates

Year 9 students finish classes on Tuesday, 4th December and then are involved with City Experience activities until Friday, 7th December.  Year 7 & 8 students finish classes on Thursday, 6th December with a special last day program on Friday, 7th December concluding at 1:30p.m. The College will run activities until 3:20p.m for those students needing to stay until bus pick up.

Buses

On Friday, most Bacchus Marsh Coach buses will come early for a 1:40p.m departure. Town buses (SITA) will not pick up students until normal finishing time. Parents are encouraged to make other arrangements.

2019 Start Dates

Our new Year 7 students will begin the year with an Orientation Day on Friday, 1st February, 2019 with all Year 7 – 12 classes commencing on Monday, 4th February.

2019 European Tour

There is now one position available on the 2019 European Tour in April, 2019.

The cost of the tour is $6,950, which includes:

• All flights
• Accommodation
• Transfers
• Tours
• Travel insurance
• Five dinners, including a Polish and an Italian cooking class
• All breakfasts

The Tour will visit Krakow in Poland, with tours of Auschwitz-Birkenau, Oscar Schinder's factory and much more. From there, we will travel to Italy to visit Venice, hike the Cinque Terra, go to the Leaning Tower, see the greatest collection of art on the planet, stay in the Italian countryside and witness the glory of Rome with its ancient wonders, like the Colosseum and it's more recent additions of St Peter's and the Renaissance art that makes up the city's structure. In addition to the sights, we will soak up the experience of being in another country with its food, shopping and points of interest everywhere.

Students attending this tour will stay with a family from our Italian sister school in Cividale del Friuli for a number of nights. 

If you are interested in sending your child, please email Paul Iannazzo at piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au.

In order to be eligible, students:

• Must be in Years 9 - 12 in 2019
• Families must be fully up to date with their school fees
• Have a reasonable standard of behaviour - in consultation with relevant Year Level Coordinators

You do not need to be studying or speak Italian.

Payment for the tour will need to be made almost immediately.

Weekly Reflection

For Red Wednesday - Persecution of Christians

Almighty God,

You have warned us through your Son Jesus Christ that those who follow Him may be oppressed and abused because of their faith.

We ask that you comfort and give courage to all your children who fall victims to unjust imprisonment, physical harm and intimidation at the hands of their oppressors.

For those who have given their lives in the fight for freedom to openly share and live out their faith, may they be welcomed into your warm embrace.

For those who persecute our brothers and sisters, may their spirits be touched by the incredible faith of those who they attack. And may they turn away from sin and open their hearts to your love.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

On Wednesday evening, the College’s Performing Arts Centre will be bathed in red light, to mirror St Patrick’s Cathedral, the venue at 7.30pm for an ecumenical service.

From the Principal

Graduation

On Friday night we farewelled the class of 2018 with a dinner and dancing. Students enjoyed an evening with friends family and teachers as they said their final farewells to CRC Melton. We wish them all the best of luck in their future endeavours.

Western Edge Cluster Vocational Education & Training Awards

It was great to see so many of our students receive awards last Tuesday at the Western Edge Cluster Vocational Education & Training Awards at TabCorp Park. See below for names of students who received an award.

Mushroom Music Workshop

Recently a group of students participated in the Mushroom Group music workshops held at the College. The students had the opportunity to work with musicians and industry people to write and record their own music. We’re are pleased to announce a number of CRC Melton students have been selected by the Mushroom group for recording opportunities. The students will be recording their group’s original track they wrote in the workshops.

Congratulations to the following students and we look forward to hearing their tracks in the near future:

• Shannon Tuilaepa
• Hanamoa Maiava
• Rebekah-Mae Tipanero
• Regina Laumata

Daily Mass

During the month of December, Daily Mass will be offered only on 12th -14th December. Daily Mass will resume at the beginning of Term 1 in February 2019.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2019 Subject Selections

All Year 9 and Year 10 subject selections should now be finalised.

Year 11 & Year 12 subjects need to be finalised by the end of the Jumpstart period to ensure students have access to the work that needs to be completed before students start classes next year.

Term 4 Key Dates

VCE Year 11 and 12 2019 Jumpstart runs until Friday, 30th November. The Year 11 and 12 Farewell Mass takes place Friday afternoon.

2019 VCAL Jumpstart

VCAL 2019 Jumpstart (Foundation, Intermediate & Senior) will operate from this Wednesday, November 28 (when all students will undertake their 2019 VET Induction) until Friday, 30th November. Attendance at Jumpstart is compulsory and will go towards 2019 VCAL attendance. During Jumpstart students will be working through outcomes and will require their iPAD. Students are required to be in full summer uniform, not sports uniform.

Year 7 - 9 Finish Dates

Year 9 students finish classes on Tuesday, 4th December and then are involved with City Experience activities until Friday, December 7.  Year 7 and 8 students finish classes on Thursday, 6th December with a special last day program on Friday, 7th December concluding at 1.30pm.

College Awards Night

College Awards Night will take place on Wednesday, 5th December at TabCorp Park.

2019 Start Dates

Year 7 students will begin the year with an Orientation Day on Friday, 1st February, with all Year 7 – 12 classes starting on Monday, 4th February.

VET Awards

The Western Edge Cluster Vocational Education and Training (VET) Awards where held on Tuesday the 20^th November at Tabcorp Park.

The VET awards evening acknowledges the commitment and efforts of students from the Western Edge Cluster with respect to their Vocational Education and Training.

Melton Catholic Regional College are delighted to have had several students be the recipients of these awards.

Congratulations to Harris Leiataua who was awarded the prestigious ‘Josh Linder Award’. This award is a symbolic acknowledgment of a student who was able to ‘Overcome Learn and Succeed’.

Congratulation to Denielle Lastra who was awarded the ‘Principals Award’ for exemplar in attitude, behaviour and committment to completing their studies to the best of their abilities.

Congratulations to students that excelled in their chosen vocational field. They are as follows:

Applied Fashion Design & Technology

Most Improved - Year 1 - Mcayla Duarte

Early Childhood Education & Care

Endeavour Award- Year 2 - Taylah Farr

 Electrotechnology

Most Improved - Year 2 - Cooper Rhondes

Engineering

Outstanding Award – Year 2 - Denielle Lastra

Health Services Assistance

Most Improved Award- Year 1 - Josephine Mwaka

Most Improved Award- Year 2 - Erin Salmon

Outstanding Award – Year 1 - Nicole Portelli

Horticulture

Endeavour Award- Year 2 - Antonino Gianino

Outstanding Award – Year 2 - Patrick Elander

Plumbing

Endeavour Award- Year 2 - Harris Leiataua

Most Improved Award- Year 2 - Justin Webster

Wigs for Kids

On Monday 26th November, five Year 12 students, Mrs Bourke and one of the students mums, Natalie Rabottini cut their hair to make Wigs for Kids. Nearly 1kg of hair was cut off and over $1000 has been raised and will go towards kids with cancer. Anyone that donated was able to cut a plait from someone’s head and many of the staff enjoyed cutting the hair. Thank you to everyone who donated and well done to Danielle Sultana, Liv Mifsud, Olivia Rabottini, Natalie Rabottini, Khaw Ti Ling and Cheyenne Llanes for cutting their hair.

Holiday Reading

If you have seem some time and would like to read a good book...or two...or three, why not check out the great collection of eBooks available to you using the eBook Platform from Wheelers.

This book collection is available to you as a member of the CRC Melton community. It works well on a range of devices but is most suited to your College iPad.

Now that you are logged on, you can browse the thousands of titles available and borrow what you would like to read.

Belinda Brown

Library Technician

ePlatform for New Users.pdf

2019 European Tour

There is now one position available on the 2019 European Tour in April, 2019.

The cost of the tour is $6,950, which includes:

• All flights
• Accomodation
• Transfers
• Tours
• Travel insurance
• Five dinners, including a Polish and an Italian cooking class
• All breakfasts

The Tour will visit Krakow in Poland, with tours of Auschwitz-Birkenau, Oscar Schinder's factory and much more. From there, we will travel to Italy to visit Venice, hike the Cinque Terra, go to the Leaning Tower, see the greatest collection of art on the planet, stay in the Italian countryside and witness the glory of Rome with its ancient wonders, like the Colosseum and it's more recent additions of St Peter's and the Renaissance art that makes up the city's structure. In addition to the sights, we will soak up the experience of being in another country with its food, shopping and points of interest everywhere.

Students attending this tour will stay with a family from our Italian sister school in Cividale del Friuli for a number of nights. 

If you are interested in sending your child, please email Paul Iannazzo at piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au.

In order to be eligible, students:

• Must be in Years 9 - 12 in 2019
• Families must be fully up to date with their school fees
• Have a reasonable standard of behaviour - in consultation with relevant Year Level Coordinators

You do not need to be studying or speak Italian.

Payment for the tour will need to be made almost immediately.

World Youth Day

To celebrate World Youth Day here in Melbourne, the Archdiocesan Office for Youth is partnering with the Disciples of Jesus Covenant Community to host the 2019 Summer School of Evangelisation – World Youth Day at Home.

For over 30 years Summer School has been serving the needs of young people around Australia through a week long retreat into the powerful experience of the Holy Spirit, opening up possibilities for deepening faith, joy, freedom and passion for the Gospel of Jesus. In 2019, the Summer School will coincide with World Youth Day week in Panama and will be our World Youth Day at Home experience. We will be reflecting together with Pope Francis and pilgrims around the world on the theme: “Yes Lord, your will be done”.

We are excited to share that Bishop Mark Edwards will be present for the whole of the Summer School, and many World Youth Day elements will be part of the week, including Catechesis with Bishops, a Stations of the Cross, and inspiration from Pope Francis. The week brings together young people from urban and rural parts of the state, and offers a welcoming experience for young people who may have had little encounter with the Church

The Summer School is taking place from 20 January – 27 January 2019 at PGL Campaspe Downs, 1302 Trentham Rd, Kyneton. Registration is now open for young people aged 16-35 years. To register, go to click here.

Concept Maps

How can concept maps be used to support mapping of knowledge?

Information for learning can be processed and stored in memory in two possible ways: through language (spoken words or written text) or nonverbally, (mental image or physical experience) (Paivio, 1991). The main way that new knowledge is presented to students in the classroom is orally (Marzano, Pickering, and Pollock (2001)). However, it been found that showing students how to use imagery to represent information not only stimulates but also increases activity in the brain (Marzano, 1998). As students try to convey what they know and understand in visual ways, they are forced to draw together what they have learned; see how ideas, information, and concepts are connected; develop higher-order thinking skills (e.g., analytical thinking); and organise their knowledge in a way that makes sense to others. Visual representations also help students remember and recall information more easily.

Visual representations can be created as concept maps. Concept maps help students to “read” and understand complex information and relationships more easily. They also help students to generate ideas, structure their thoughts, and learn how to represent what they know in an easy to read way. In constructing concept maps students master understanding of the topic, perceive relationships between concepts, and prioritise information. Concept maps can also be a useful device to assess student knowledge pre and post learning experience. Concept maps help students see patterns and connections (rather than memorise facts) and form mental structures that would help them handle new knowledge and relate it to past knowledge (Erickson, 2002).

There are differing ways to construct concept maps although most methods generally follow these steps:

1.   Identify the main ideas or concepts presented in a text as you read. Concepts are represented as labelled circles or boxes.
2.   Organise the concepts into categories. The organisation may change as you continue to read and add more information.
3.  Use lines or arrows on the map to represent how ideas are connected to one another, a particular category, and/or the main concept. Lines are labeled with verbs in order to specify the relationships between concepts, while arrows are used to show the direction of the relationship (e.g., one-way or two-way). Limit the amount of information on the map to avoid frustration.       
4.  When the map is complete, students are encouraged to share and reflect on how they made the connections between concepts and to use the concept map to summarise the text, plan a work requirement or study for a test.

References

Paivio, A. (1991). Dual coding theory: Retrospect and current status. Canadian Journal of Psychology/Revue canadienne de psychologie, 45(3), 255-287.

RJ Marzano, D Pickering, JE Pollock (2001). Classroom instruction that works: Research-based strategies for increasing student achievement

Marzano, R. (1998) A Theory-based Meta-analysis of Research on Instruction. Mid-continent Regional Educational Laboratory

By H. Lynn Erickson. (2002) Concept-Based Curriculum and Instruction: Teaching Beyond the Facts. Corwin Press Inc

Weekly Reflection

It is God’s Work

It helps now and then to step back and take the long view. The kingdom is not only beyond our efforts, it is even beyond our vision.

We accomplish in our lifetime only a small fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is God’s work. Nothing we do is complete, which is another way of saying that the kingdom always lies beyond us.

No statement says all that could be said. No prayer fully expresses our faith. No confession brings perfection. No pastoral visit brings wholeness. No program accomplishes the Church’s mission. No set of goals and objectives includes everything.

This is what we are about: We plant the seeds that will one day grow. We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise. We lay foundations that will need further development. We provide yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities.

We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realising that. This enables us to do something, and to do it well. It may be incomplete but it is a beginning, a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.

We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker. We are workers, not master builders; ministers, not messiahs. We are prophets of a future not our own.

-Archbishop Oscar Romero

From the Principal

New Student Resource Centre

The demolition of our old School Hall which was built in 1995 is well underway. Magellan Builders from Geelong have the tender for this project which will be at the centre of the school.

It’s a very exciting building and will be at the centre of the school, with lots of glass exterior where one will be able to see in and out.

VCE Exams

VCE Exams conclude tomorrow with the Italian exam. Thanks to all involved in ensuring these exams went as smoothly as possible.

Year 12 Graduation Dinner

We look forward to the Graduation Dinner this Friday night with over 400 parents, students and staff attending this event at Ultima in Keilor.

BYOD for Years 10-12

Parents of current Year 9 students are encouraged to read the information on the BYOD program which will be sent to families through CareMonkey later this week.

Remember that if you are unsure what to buy or financially stretched at the moment, your son/daughter can simply bring their current iPad into Year 10.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

African Summit

On Wednesday 14th November, the African Australian students from CRC Melton along with Simma Maniel and Rebecca Cassar, attended the inaugural African Summit held at Maribyrnong College. With over 100 students from the Western suburbs they were inspired by amazing speakers across all walks of life.  African Australians gave their time to talk about the importance of education, the challenges they face and the amazing opportunities that are out there.

Speakers included:

• Majak Daw and Libby Birch - AFL footballers
• Helen Kassa - film maker/storyteller
• Flora Chol - poet/writer
• Huessin Mohanad- Researcher
• Abdi Ali - President of Phenix football club
• Idil Mohamad - Lawyer at Slater and Gordon
• Fahir Mohamad - Childhood educator
• Ben Millar - The Age

Students had the opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A session.

There was also an opportunity for all the participants to take part in one of the many activities on offer.  The afternoon consisted of activities including Soccer with Melbourne Victory, Basketball, African Drumming and African Cooking. Each student got to experience one of these activities.  

All schools brought their mentors and were engaged in the day. Catering was provided by local African women and the Sorghum Sisters.

Overall the day was a fantastic way for our students to mingle with others and share their own experiences and reflections with each other about their challenges, triumphs and hopes for empowering others in the future.

 Written by Simma Maniel

World Youth Day

To celebrate World Youth Day here in Melbourne, the Archdiocesan Office for Youth is partnering with the Disciples of Jesus Covenant Community to host the 2019 Summer School of Evangelisation – World Youth Day at Home.

For over 30 years Summer School has been serving the needs of young people around Australia through a week long retreat into the powerful experience of the Holy Spirit, opening up possibilities for deepening faith, joy, freedom and passion for the Gospel of Jesus. In 2019, the Summer School will coincide with World Youth Day week in Panama and will be our World Youth Day at Home experience. We will be reflecting together with Pope Francis and pilgrims around the world on the theme: “Yes Lord, your will be done”.

We are excited to share that Bishop Mark Edwards will be present for the whole of the Summer School, and many World Youth Day elements will be part of the week, including Catechesis with Bishops, a Stations of the Cross, and inspiration from Pope Francis. The week brings together young people from urban and rural parts of the state, and offers a welcoming experience for young people who may have had little encounter with the Church

The Summer School is taking place from 20 January – 27 January 2019 at PGL Campaspe Downs, 1302 Trentham Rd, Kyneton. Registration is now open for young people aged 16-35 years. To register, go to click here.

CRC Melton Wishing Tree

CRC Melton Wishing Tree

I would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone for their generous donations for the Wishing Tree. For the past 5 years our school community has donated gifts, treats and money for the Wishing Tree initiative. The overwhelming generosity always astounds me. At a time that is already quite financially demanding, we respond with a caring and compassionate heart to the needs of others. This is the last week for donations to be brought in and packed up into hampers, so if your family hasn’t donated yet and you are able to, I urge you to do so this week. 

Fiesta for a Farmer

I made contact with a small community in White Cliffs: 100 km north east of Broken Hill. This is a very remote rural community experiencing hardship as a result of the drought. The Country Women’s Association usually put on a Christmas party for the community, providing presents for the all the children and party food for approximately 40 families. Due to the inability to do any fundraising this year because of the drought and financial hardship, the party was not going to happen.

When I explained that our students had raised money and wanted to donate it, they were over joyed. The money will be used to buy gifts for each child and to buy some Christmas foods for some of the families.

Below is a short story about the Country Women’s Association and the community.

“Around 10 years ago when my husband and I moved back to White Cliffs to live and raise our family, the CWA had a resurgence with many younger families, and hence women becoming interested in what we do.  When my eldest daughter was a toddler, we decided to resurrect the Christmas Tree.  This entails fundraising throughout the year for presents for the kids and some of the food for a party. Everyone that attends brings either nibbles or a dessert.  Santa usually rocks up in a large piece of machinery and the kids absolutely love it!  This year has been extremely difficult to fundraise, so any extra funds we receive are truly appreciated and we are grateful.” Louise Turner.

Combined Churches Food Bank, Melton

Last week I was able to donate a load of fresh vegetables and herbs to the local Food bank. This donation was a result of produce the VCAL class had planted and grown under the supervision of Ms. Sandra Carey and Sam our gardener. There was a combination of fresh lettuces, Bok Choy, Spinach and fresh herbs. The Food bank supports people in the local area who are experiencing financial hardship.

Weekly Reflection

Prayer for Fallen Soldiers

Dear Lord Jesus and Mary, Mother of God,
Hold all these brave souls in the palm of your hand, comfort them and their families.
Send angels of protection, love, and comfort to all the service men and women still at war,
bring them home safely and comfort their families.
We ask all our prayers in Jesus' name. Amen.

From the Principal

Remembrance Day

Last Friday, CRC Melton held a Remembrance Day commemorative service led by the Student Leaders. Dylan Hassan and Evana Miesen read the oath and Briannah Mungcal sang the Australian National Anthem and Bagena and Phillipa Malua, Regina Tuala and PJ Maae sang the New Zealand National Anthem. 

On Sunday, students Liam Baker, Swen Anthony, Dylan Hassan, Evana Miesen, Jack O'Rourke attended the City of Melton Service and laid a wreath in memory of all who served their country and paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Awards Night

CRC Melton Awards Night will be held at Tabcorp Park on Wednesday 5th December. Be sure to mark this date in your calendar as its a busy time of the year.

Bourke Street Attack

I draw your attention to the attached Pastoral Statement on the Bourke Street attack of 9th November from Melbourne's Archbishop Peter A Comensoli.

Mark Sheehan

Principal

Pastoral Statement - Bourke St.pdf

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2019 Subject Selections

Students have all received their 2019 Year 10 initial confirmation letters. Any change requests will no longer be considered as booklist and levy numbers need to be lodged.

Year 8 students will have their 2019 Year 9 electives confirmed this week.

Students of families that have not completed re-enrolment for 2019 will not receive their confirmation letters until re-enrolment is completed.

Congratulations to all Years 7-8 students for the way they approached their formal Timed Assessment Tasks (TAT's) last week. The experience they gain from sitting these tasks in a Senior exam environment will assist them with exams in Years 10-12.

Years 10 & 11

Year 10 and 11 students are now in our Semester 2 exam period that runs until Tuesday, 20th November. Students are only required at school when they have exams.

All returning students will then be involved in Jumpstart classes for 2019. 

Asthma Awareness

A reminder to all families that November & December are critical months in terms of Thunderstorm Asthma events. All students that experience Asthma need to ensure that they carry their Asthma puffers with them at all times (not left in lockers or home). We are undertaking Staff Asthma Awareness sessions with staff and will have a reminder in the daily Student Bulletin. We are all aware of the tragic results that can occur if treatment is not readily available.

Term 4 Key Dates

Listed below is a summary of Term 4 Key dates for your referral:

Jumpstart Program

VCE Year 11 & 12 2019 Jumpstart runs from Wednesday, 21st November – Friday, 30th November. Our Year 11 farewell mass and Year 10 farewell prayer services take place on Friday afternoon.

Students undertaking VCE Jumpstart have received individual timetables.

2019 VCAL Jumpstart

VCAL 2019 Jumpstart (Foundation, Intermediate & Senior) will operate from Wednesday, 28th November (when all students will undertake their 2019 VET Induction) until Friday, 30th November. Attendance at Jumpstart is compulsory and will go towards 2019 VCAL attendance. During Jumpstart students will be working through outcomes and will require their iPAD, etc. Students are required to be in full summer uniform, not sports uniform.

Year 7-9 Finish Dates

Year 9 students finish classes on Tuesday, 4th December and then are involved with City Experience activities until Friday, 7th December.  Year 7 and 8 students finish classes on Thursday, 6th December with a special last day program on Friday, 7th December.

2019 European Tour

There is now one position available on the 2019 European Tour in April, 2019.

The cost of the tour is $6,950, which includes:

• All flights
• Accomodation
• Transfers
• Tours
• Travel insurance
• Five dinners, including a Polish and an Italian cooking class
• All breakfasts

The Tour will visit Krakow in Poland, with tours of Auschwitz-Birkenau, Oscar Schinder's factory and much more. From there, we will travel to Italy to visit Venice, hike the Cinque Terra, go to the Leaning Tower, see the greatest collection of art on the planet, stay in the Italian countryside and witness the glory of Rome with its ancient wonders, like the Colosseum and it's more recent additions of St Peter's and the Renaissance art that makes up the city's structure. In addition to the sights, we will soak up the experience of being in another country with its food, shopping and points of interest everywhere.

Students attending this tour will stay with a family from our Italian sister school in Cividale del Friuli for a number of nights. 

If you are interested in sending your child, please email Paul Iannazzo at piannazzo@crcmelton.com.au.

In order to be eligible, students:

• Must be in Years 9 - 12 in 2019
• Families must be fully up to date with their school fees
• Have a reasonable standard of behaviour - in consultation with relevant Year Level Coordinators

You do not need to be studying or speak Italian.

Payment for the tour will need to be made almost immediately.

Sports News

Over the long weekend, Montana Djatschenko of Year 11 competed at the Victorian All Schools Athletics Championships at Lakeside Stadium in the city. This event is a competition for elite athletes from Victoria schools to compete against each other.

Montana had a very successful meet with Gold in the U18 Triple Jump and Long Jump and 4^th in the U18 and 100m.

Montana is now off to Cairns in December to compete in the Australian All Schools Athletics Championships.

We would love to promote all of our students sporting achievements outside of school. If your child has been involved in anything, please email me at nbourke@crcmelton.com.au with the details and a photo.

World Youth Day

To celebrate World Youth Day here in Melbourne, the Archdiocesan Office for Youth is partnering with the Disciples of Jesus Covenant Community to host the 2019 Summer School of Evangelisation – World Youth Day at Home.

For over 30 years Summer School has been serving the needs of young people around Australia through a week long retreat into the powerful experience of the Holy Spirit, opening up possibilities for deepening faith, joy, freedom and passion for the Gospel of Jesus. In 2019, the Summer School will coincide with World Youth Day week in Panama and will be our World Youth Day at Home experience. We will be reflecting together with Pope Francis and pilgrims around the world on the theme: “Yes Lord, your will be done”.

We are excited to share that Bishop Mark Edwards will be present for the whole of the Summer School, and many World Youth Day elements will be part of the week, including Catechesis with Bishops, a Stations of the Cross, and inspiration from Pope Francis. The week brings together young people from urban and rural parts of the state, and offers a welcoming experience for young people who may have had little encounter with the Church

The Summer School is taking place from 20 January – 27 January 2019 at PGL Campaspe Downs, 1302 Trentham Rd, Kyneton. Registration is now open for young people aged 16-35 years. To register, go to click here.

Weekly Reflection

All Saints and All Souls

On the feast of All Saints (1st November), we are asked to reflect on the lives of the saints. We can often think of saints as perfect people, but their greatest witness is how they coped with the ordinary difficulties of their life, and how they courageously showed the love of God to others.

We also remember and pray for all those who have died on the feast of All Souls (2nd November). Some of these people may only be known to God. Others are people whose love, sacrifice and fidelity we have seen for ourselves and who have inspired us. They saw God in this world and are now fully alive to him in the next. 

Together we pray:

Lord God, we remember with love all those who have died. We ask the support of all your saints who by their persistence and example have shown us how to live and love in Your ways. Give us strength to cope with the daily routines that wear us down. Help us to act as your witnesses when we respond to each other with love, not with impatience, carelessness, rudeness or fear.

In your love, we can find our way forward into your promised heaven. Amen.

From the Principal

Opening of the Headspace Centre in Melton

On Monday I attended the opening of the new Headspace facilities in Melton South.

Victorian Senator Jane Hume this week launched the centre which will support 12 to 25-year-olds across the key areas of mental health, related physical health, social and vocational support and alcohol and other drug use.

This centre was funded by the North West Melbourne Primary Health Network, as part of the Commonwealth Government’s focus on Youth mental health.

The consortium partners include Odyssey House, Djerriwarrh Health Services, MacKillop Family Services, Cohealth Ltd, Youth Projects, Hope Street Services, and The North West Area Mental Health. They will be providing early intervention health services for young people aged between 12 to 25 years. These agencies have been working with young people, in and around the Melton area, for some time and running a headspace centre will be a great extension to the work already happening.

Melton centre manager Dr Teresa Sedgley said the centre was already popular.

“We had well over 100 referrals waiting for us from local health services when we started, and we’re filling our appointment book as fast as we can open up new space,”

“It really shows the level of support and need there has been for a service like this in Melton, and we’re thrilled to be part of such a strong local community.”

Health figures show Melton has the highest rates of psychological distress of any local government area in Victoria, with 20 per cent of people reporting high or very high psychological distress – nearly double the state average.

City of Melton Mayor, Bob Turner said Headspace would make a real difference to youth mental health in the region. “We’re a fast-growing, young municipality and we know that high rates of young people in our city face a number of mental health risks”

Parents & Friends

There will be a Parents & Friends meeting Wednesday, 31st October at 7:00pm. All Welcome.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Staff PL Day

Wednesday 31st October will be a Student Free Day as staff will be undertaking a presentation by Glen Pearsall on Improving Student Learning.

No students other than those undertaking the VCAA Year 12 English exam are expected at school. To accommodate Year 12 students undertaking the English exam, Bacchus Marsh Coaches will be running normal bus services.

Melbourne Cup Day

Tuesday, 6th November is the Melbourne Cup Public Holiday. The College has a mid-Term break on Monday, 5th November, however VCAA exams will still operate.

Please note that Bacchus Marsh Coaches will not operate services to school this day.

Years 10 & 11 Exams

Due to updated information from our VET providers please note that there will not be a VET Music nor VET Allied Health Services – 1st Yr exam. See attached updated program.

John Christie

Deputy Principal (Staff)

Exam Timetable (Updated1).pdf

Minyip School Shoot Competition

On Monday 22nd of October, 14 students from CRC had the opportunity to be a part of the Minyip schools shooting competition. This is the third year the school has participated, this year being the biggest team of competitors. We had to wake up at 5:00am for a 6:00am departure from school. After a 3-hour journey we arrived at Minyip. Upon arrival we registered and waited for our call up where we were about to compete against 400 students who had come from schools across the western districts.

The competition involved us completing two courses, with targets coming from different directions from each station. The objective was to hit has many clay targets as possible. Even though we were not successful in the final results we all managed to hit targets.  Thank you to parents Shane O’Brien and Rebecca Oliver for organising the team, our registration and coaching us. Thanks also to Anthony Borg for driving the bus to and from the competition. It was a new experience for a number of us and we look forward to future opportunities to participate.

Team members were Luke Pace-Rinaldo, Carlin Wilken, Brendan O’Brien, Liam Summers, Jack James, Charlie Borg, Harrison Coombs, Charlie Vella, Riley Porritt, Kiara Della-Rocca, Xavier Keamy-Browne, Alex Emin, James Collins and Charlee Cassar.

English Booklist

Over the next couple of days, your son/daughter will be receiving their booklist for 2019 English texts.

Please note, you have until 7th November to have this submitted. Please ignore the original date.

If you order online, please ensure you select the Early English Texts - not the 2019 year level. These texts will be delivered to the school around seven days after they are ordered.

If you select the Year Level, the texts will not arrive until late January.

It is an expectation you will purchase these texts at this time as your son/daughter is required to read them over the term break.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact:

Victoria Moore (vmoore@crcmelton.com.au)

Narelle Layton (nlayton@crcmelton.com.au)

World Youth Day

To celebrate World Youth Day here in Melbourne, the Archdiocesan Office for Youth is partnering with the Disciples of Jesus Covenant Community to host the 2019 Summer School of Evangelisation – World Youth Day at Home.

For over 30 years Summer School has been serving the needs of young people around Australia through a week long retreat into the powerful experience of the Holy Spirit, opening up possibilities for deepening faith, joy, freedom and passion for the Gospel of Jesus. In 2019, the Summer School will coincide with World Youth Day week in Panama and will be our World Youth Day at Home experience. We will be reflecting together with Pope Francis and pilgrims around the world on the theme: “Yes Lord, your will be done”.

We are excited to share that Bishop Mark Edwards will be present for the whole of the Summer School, and many World Youth Day elements will be part of the week, including Catechesis with Bishops, a Stations of the Cross, and inspiration from Pope Francis. The week brings together young people from urban and rural parts of the state, and offers a welcoming experience for young people who may have had little encounter with the Church

The Summer School is taking place from 20 January – 27 January 2019 at PGL Campaspe Downs, 1302 Trentham Rd, Kyneton. Registration is now open for young people aged 16-35 years. To register, go to click here.

SS09_A5 Flyer.pdf

Host Families Needed

We are looking forward to our Italian students from our Sister School, Convitto Nazionale Paolo Diacono, in Cividale, Friuli Venezia Giulia, visiting us next year in July. If you would like to host a student for three weeks please email Mrs. Claudia Russo on crusso@crcmelton.com.au by the end of this academic year. Grazie mille.

Weekly Reflection

The Clowns Prayer

As I stumble through this life, help me to create more laughter than tears,
dispense more happiness than gloom, spread more cheer than despair.
Never let me become so indifferent that I will fail to see the wonder
in the eyes of a child or the twinkle in the eyes of the aged.
Never let me forget that my total effort is to cheer people, make them happy
and forget - at least momentarily - all the unpleasantness in their lives.
And, in my final moment, may I hear You whisper:
'When you made My people smile, you made Me smile.' 

From the Principal

Year 12 Graduation Mass

Our Year 12 Graduation Mass was held last Friday night and it was a ‘full house’ at St Catherine’s Church. Thanks to Fr Michael Moody who led the celebration of the Eucharist.

Thank you also to Shaun Coates, Amy Bandeira, Karina Dunne and Kerrie-Ann Mathews who did so much in preparing for both the Mass and the Graduation Ceremony.

Congratulations to the following students who received awards:

Community Spirit Award - Phe Khaw Ti Ling

School Spirit Award - Aukirisitino Leiataua & Olivia Rabottini

Peer Award - Meg Bacchin & Macy Le Huray

Abby Rogers Award - Stephanie Lisolajski

Principal’s Award - Rebecca Chin

National Apology

The Prime Minister delivered a national apology to victims and survivors of institional child sexual abuse on Monday 22nd October, 2018. The National Apology provides an opportunity for us to remember and recall these stories and to pray for healing and atonement. We also acknowledge the courage of those who appeared before the Royal Commission to tell their stories. In addition, we recognise the work that has been undertaken and continues to be done to shape a culture of accountibilty and trust to enable us to protect all children and vounerable adults.

Archbishop Peter Comensoli tweeted:

On this day of the National Apology to victims of sexual abuse, I also humbly say sorry. May survivors, families and communities know healing & hope. I recognise, however, my responsibility is to turn words into actions. I am committed to doing so in @catholicmelb, step by step.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

Year 12

A great farewell was experienced by our departing Year 12 students and staff. Colour, activities and laughter were in abundance all morning last Friday and I would know like to compliment our Year 12 students and thank Mrs Dunne, Mrs Lock and Mr Coates along with our Year 12 Homeroom Tutors for our Farewell Morning and Graduation Mass. The Mass was an inspiring service led by Father Moody. The formal presentations ran smoothly and both our 2018 and 2019 College Captains spoke admirably. I hope all families enjoyed the opportunity to share the experience with their child and then have the chance to join teachers and friends for supper.

Year 12 VCE students are now on SWOTVAC until Tuesday, 30th October. VCAA exams begin on Wednesday, 31st October until Wednesday, 21st November.

As already communicated by Carissa Lock (VCE Coordinator) and Karina Dunne (Year 12 Coordinator), students need to be at the College at least 30 minutes before the exam published reading time to ensure smooth entry into the exam venues. Students may wear casual clothes.

2019 Subject Selections

Current Year 9 students will be interviewed over the next weeks to finalise their Year 10 electives for 2019. Once completed 2019 Year 10 initial confirmation letters will be sent home. Current Year 8 students will then be followed up for their Year 9 electives.

Staff PL Day

Wednesday 31st October will be a Student Free Day as staff will be involved in Professional Learning.

Melbourne Cup Day

Tuesday, 6th November is the Melbourne Cup Public Holiday. The College has a mid-Term break on Monday, 5th November, however VCAA exams will still operate.

End of year Exams and Year 7 & 8 TATS

Years 7 & 8

All Year 7 & 8 students will do a Timed Assessment Task in Mathematics, English, Humanities and Science at the same times. These assessment tasks will take place in Padua Exam Centre starting 7th November and take the place of the normally timetabled class. 

Year 9

Year 9 students will undertake exams beginning Monday, 12th November. Elective exams will take place in normal scheduled class times. Exams in Mathematics, English, Science, and Humanities will take place in the Osma Centre, see attachment for details.

Years 10 & 11

Year 10 and 11 students will finish formal classes on Friday, November 9. Year 10 & 11 exams will run from Monday, 12th November to Tuesday, 20th November. Students are only required at school when they have exams.

All returning students will then be involved in Jumpstart classes for 2019.

The exam schedule for all year levels is attached.

John Christie

Exam Timetable.pdf

VCE Art Folio Exhibition

The Art Faculty would like to invite all Parents/Guardians, students and friends to come and view the Annual Catholic Regional College Melton VCE Student Folio Exhibition. On display will be work completed throughout 2018 by our Year 11 and 12 students. The work has been produced to meet the VCE study design for the subjects of Media Studies, Studio Art and Visual Communication Design.

Official Opening: Thursday 25th October at 6.00pm in the Performing Arts Centre.

The Exhibition will also be open to the students and wider community on Thursday 25th from 9am-3pm and Friday 26th October 9am-12pm.

All year levels are welcome. This is a great opportunity to take a closer look at the work produced at VCE if you are considering choosing any of these subjects in the next few years. We look forward to seeing you there.

Amy Rowley

Domain Leader - Art

2018 exhibition poster.pdf

Fiesta for a Farmer

On 12th October, we held a fundraiser in support of the farmers and their communities suffering from the drought. The Year 12 Legal Studies class decided to hold the fundraiser and chose the theme - Fiesta for a farmer.  We had an excellent day and the students and staff really supported the cause. Following an additional contribution from a VCAL class BBQ held earlier in the year, we raised $1324.

I would like to acknowledge all of the students and staff who supported this cause in any way. 

Wigs for Kids

What will you do at the end of year 12?  Livinia Mifsud, Olivia Rabotini, Cheyenne Llanes, Khaw Ti Ling, Danielle Sulatana and myself have decided to end our school year by cutting our hair and donating it to make wigs for kids who have lost their hair through illness. What can you do? You can follow the link below to our Go Fund Me page:

https://www.gofundme.com/jzv8v-wigs-for-kids?sharetype=teams&member=944518&rcid=r01-153973501956-411eaa96c9164ebf&pc=ot_co_campmgmt_w

Outside the hall at lunch time on 26^th November, we will be cutting our hair, and you could be lucky enough to cut Mrs Bourke’s hair.  If you want to cut my hair, all you need to do is donate and you will go into the draw to cut a plait, so get donating!

Students Need School Libraries

• Did you know… that your school library supports your child to engage with a diverse range of books to extend their imagination and develop a lifelong love of reading?

• Did you know… that school libraries are responsive and collaborative learning spaces that provide students with access to a wide range of resources that are relevant and appropriate to their learning needs?

• Did you know… that school libraries support your child to reach their potential by teaching them how to become capable researchers and to navigate the world of online information and fake news?

• Did you know... that teacher librarians hold specialised qualifications as both a teacher and a librarian? Quality library staff are trained to support keen and reluctant, successful and struggling learners.

Students need school libraries. If you are keen to ensure that EVERY child in Australia has access to a quality school library, check out the information available at https://studentsneedschoollibraries.org.au

https://crcmeltonlibrary.weebly.com/students-need-school-libraries.html

Weekly Reflection

A Prayer for our Graduating Students  
Father God, we thank you for these our Year 12 graduating students. We pray that you will give them direction, purpose, and perseverance as they enter the next phase of their lives. Give them clearness of mind to move forward into the plans and purposes that You have for them. May these young people gain wisdom from You and have discernment for proper behavior. Raise up Christian mentors for these graduates so they have someone who holds them accountable for their actions. We pray that they will have the boldness to stand up for what is right wherever they work, study, or socialise. Give them wisdom to spend their time and money wisely. Grant them success for their efforts at every turn and guide their feet to follow Your ways. May they be eager to do good all the days of their lives. Amen.

From the Principal

Year 12 Farewell

Our thoughts and prayers are with our Year 12 students and their parents, as they conclude their time at CRC Melton this week.

To mark this important time, the College has three annual rituals:

1.       Year 12 Breakfast and ‘Dress up morning’ on Friday 19th October
2.       Graduation Mass at St Catherines on Friday 19th October at 7pm
3.       Valedictory Dinner on Friday 23rd November at Ultima Receptions

I look forward to this exciting time for the College.

Ignite Youth Conference

It was a privilege to take a fantastic group of students to the Ignite Youth Conference 2018. It was an amazing experience for all who attended. Students were able to connect with the catholic faith by meeting different guest speakers from all over the world such as Fr Rob Galea, Garry Pinto and various other guest speakers from America and Canada. The theme of the conference was inspired by Saint Teresa of Calcutta, “Let us be empty, so God can fill us up” in which we were able to pray, sing and reflect on how to let God into our lives to fill us up. It was great to see the students engage in different activities learning so much that they shared with the group. I would like to thank especially Mark Sheehan, Shaun Coates and the leadership team for their support in bringing a group of students to Ignite for the first time. Thanks to Daniel Attard and Sister Mary Sarah for their ongoing support and for all they did on the trip, it wouldn’t have been possible without them. Below are some memories from three students from the Ignite trip.

During the school holidays nine students attended the Ignite Conference in Brisbane, led by Ms Crocitti, Mr Attard and Sr Mary Sarah. The Conference allowed all who attended to explore their faith whilst participating in a range of activities, such as: rallies, workshops and keynote speakers of different themes. They were all inspiring allowing us to meet new people and gain a deeper understanding in different aspects of our faith. It was great to be surrounded by such like-minded people and strengthen our individual connections to God.

- Dylan Hassan

I went into Ignite conference filled to the brim, but I came out empty, empty so that I could be filled with God. Ignite was a wonderful place of worship, praise and rejoice. The conference brought my relationship with God closer than ever, which is why if anyone has the chance to go, GO!

- Cassandra Nguyen

My favourite part of the Ignite trip was being able to go because it really was amazing. As well as being able to experience different things I've never heard of before, which has opened my eyes to new ways in which I can express my faith. I had such an incredible time and would definitely go back. 

- Olivia Rabottini

VCE Art Folio Exhibition

The Art Faculty would like to invite all Parents/Guardians, students and friends to come and view the Annual Catholic Regional College Melton VCE Student Folio Exhibition. On display will be work completed throughout 2018 by our Year 11 and 12 students. The work has been produced to meet the VCE study design for the subjects of Media Studies, Studio Art and Visual Communication Design.

Official Opening: Thursday 25th October at 6.00pm in the Performing Arts Centre.

The Exhibition will also be open to the students and wider community on Thursday 25th October from 9am - 3pm and Friday 26th October 9am -12pm.

All year levels are welcome. This is a great opportunity to take a closer look at the work produced at VCE if you are considering choosing any of these subjects in the next few years. We look forward to seeing you there.

Amy Rowley

Domain Leader - Art

2018 exhibition poster.pdf

Sports News

Police and Schools Basketball Tournament

At the end of last term, Simma and I took 20 Year 7-10 students to compete at the Police and Schools Basketball Tournament held at the Melton Recreational Centre. We played against students from Staughton, Kurunjang, Brookside and Melton Christian College. Each school had 2 teams, and were split into 2 pools.  My team unfortunately did not finish on top so we did not make the finals, however Simma’s team did and they played in the Grand Final. The game went into overtime but unfortunately they were unable to take the win, losing by 2 points to Brookside College.  The students also played in an all-star game against a police side. Simma was asked to coach the team and they won, they beat the police team by 4 points. There was also a 3 point competition where we entered Josh Peters who won. A great day was had by all and congratulations to all the students who played.

Sporting Achievements

Kody Boyle

During the September school holidays Kody (Year 11) represented Ballarat at the Special Olympics State Carnival for basketball in Nunawading.  This is a State tournament where teams from all over Victoria competed.  Kody’s team made it to the Grand Final and Kody shot the winning goal for the game and his team walked away with the gold medal.  By participating in this tournament it means Kody is in the running to be selected to play for Victoria at the Special Olympics National Carnival to be held next year.  

Jessica Barnett-Tonna and Jackson Djatschenko

Both Jessica and Jackson (Year 7) have been selected to play for the U15 Vic Country basketball teams. Both were required to attend 3 training sessions before being selected. Jessica and Jackson are both bottom age players, meaning they have beaten kids who are 1 year older than them to make the teams.  Jessica and Jackson will play in a National tournament in January against teams from Vic Metro, NSW, SA, QLD, Tasmania, NT and the ACT. From this tournament several kids from each team will be selected to try out for the Australian team. We wish them all the best on this exciting journey.

Over the September school holidays, Jessica also competed in the Basketball Australia U14 Club National Championships that was held in Shepparton. This tournament saw club teams from all over Australia compete. Jessica’s team made it through to finals with Jessica scoring the winning points for the game and her team walking away with a bronze medal.  Jessica’s team came into the tournament having won 74 games in a row.

LOTE News

Just a friendly reminder that all Year 7 to 8 Students studying Italian need to be using the app Education Perfect on their digital device for at least 20 minutes a week, either completing homework or studying for upcoming tests.

Also, we wish our Year 12 students: Madeline Rizzo, Dayna Govic and Ethan Trethowan all the very best for their Italian Oral and written exam and Khaw Ti Ling for her Indonesian Oral and Written exam. We are proud of your efforts thus far.

Uniform Shop Extended Hours

Academy Uniforms have extended opening hours at the Melton Uniform Shop this week:

Thursday 18th October: 11:30am - 7:00pm

Usual opening hours during the school term are as follows:

Monday: 8:00am -10:00am

Thursday: 11:30am - 2:00pm

Canteen News

Now that the weather is warming up, we have started our new Summer Menu. New items include:

• Yoghurt cups, served with a fruit coulis and muesli, available all day.
• Rice paper rolls (G/F) – fresh vegetables with noodles, also vegetable, chicken and noodles. Served with a dipping sauce.
• Dip packs – hommus (G/F) or spring onion dip served with vegetable sticks and rice crackers.
• Chicken Caesar wrap – fresh cos lettuce, chicken, bacon, parmesan with a canteen made Caesar dressing.
• Potato Salad – fresh, canteen made with a wholegrain mustard dressing, egg and bacon
• Greek salad – (G/F) fresh lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, capsicum, olives and fetta with a balsamic dressing on the side.

Of course, the old favourites like fresh fruit salad and fresh sandwiches are still available.

We also have some new ice treats to keep you cool on those hot days – Juicies 100% frozen fruit juice available in tropical and apple/blackcurrant flavours. We also have Moosies a frozen dairy dessert available in blue heaven, chocolate and strawberry.

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.

Our full menu is available from the canteen or on the College website.

Please don’t hesitate to call or pop in, if you require further information on canteen services.

CRC St Albans 40th Anniversary

Please see attached information for Catholic Regional College, St Albans 40th Anniversary celebrations.

Laura Cioccia

CRC St Albans

40th anniversary flyer_2 copy.jpg2.jpg

Weekly Reflection

Our Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, prayed for the country’s drought-stricken farmers just days ago at a Pentecostal Church, after praying for the Sulawesi victims, “Sorry, I’ve got another prayer. I meant to pray for this too. I really did, I was a bit overwhelmed by your welcome,” he says.

“Lord, we pray for our farmers. We pray for our rural communities, our Indigenous communities. Lord we pray that you’ll bring light, that you’ll bring hope, that you will bring encouragement, and that you will bring rain.”

At a multi-faith prayer service in Canberra, on October 4, officiated by Rabbi Shmueli Feldman, seven religious leaders offered their own rain prayer/supplication/ritual in support of our Australian farmers suffering from a dreadful drought. Other faith group prayers were offered from leaders of the Christian, Muslim, Sikh, Hindu, Buddhist and Baha’i religions.

In late August, tens of thousands of Muslims across Australia simultaneously prayed for rain to help drought-affected Australian farmers. Sixteen mosques dedicated their celebrations during the holy celebration of Eid al-Adha. The biggest gathering was at Lakemba Mosque in Sydney which was attended by some 30,000 Muslims.

A Prayer for Rain

God our Father,

You created our earth to nourish us and give us life and Jesus told us to ask and it will be given to us.

We ask now in faith, hope and love that you look with favour on our drought-stricken land,

Our starving animals and failing produce.

Sustain, strengthen and give new heart to our farmers and all those affected by this drought.

In your loving providence send abundant rain soon and renew the faith of your people and the face of our land.

We make this prayer with many, through Jesus Christ who gives new life to all living things.

Amen

From the Principal

I trust that all students had a good break during the September holidays, notwithstanding the fact that Year 12 students needed to attend VCE Practice exams. I wish all Year 12's and their families well as they undertake their last few weeks of schooling at CRC.

Thanks to Rob Blackley who was Acting Principal for the last two weeks of Term 3, as I was a participant in the PAVCSS Pilgrimage to Central and South America.

It was an amazing Pilgrimage over 20 days with some of the highlights being:

• Hosted in El Salvador for five days by CRISPAZ (Christians for Peace in El Salvador)
• Revisiting the story of Bishop Oscar Romero at the Divine Province Chapel where he was assassinated during Mass in March 1980
• Immersion experience in the village of Papaturro, two hours from San Salvador
• Visit to Our Lord of Justice Parish in Canto Grande outside of Lima, Peru
• Meeting Sister Mary Dwyer, a Josephite Sister, who taught at CRC St Albans in the 1980s (and briefly here at Melton). Sister Helen’s vocation is in Canto Grande
• Visited the memorial to Sister Irene McCormack, a Josephite Sister, who was assassinated while working in the Mary MacKillop missions in Peru
• Meeting with peace activist, Sister Peggy O’Neill in Suchitoto- an amazing story!
• Tour of Cusco and the Sacred Valley
• A Day at Machu Picchu!
• Visit to the Maryknoll Language Institute, Cochabamba
• Visiting the 17th century Jesuit Missions in the Chiquitania region of Bolivia (San Javier, Concepcion de la Virgen, Santa Ana, San Rafael and San Miguel)

I look forward to next Sunday, 14th October when Pope Francis will canonize Blessed Oscar Romero. Blessed Oscar Romero, who was beatified by Pope Francis May 23, 2015, in El Salvador, was the archbishop of the nation's capital city of San Salvador. He was shot while celebrating Mass on 24th March, 1980 during the birth of a civil war between leftist guerrilla forces and the dictatorial government of the right. An outspoken critic of the violence and injustices being committed at the time, Romero was declared a martyr who was killed in hatred of the faith for his vocal defence of human rights.

I arrived at the church of Our Lord of Justice in Canto Grand in Peru on Saturday morning. We introduced ourselves to the Priest and the local Sister, Mary Dwyer, a Josephetite. She asked where I was from in Melbourne and I responded CRC Melton. With astonsihment, she replied "I know that school because I deputised as Principal for Sister Helen Reed when she was away in 1982!" She was teaching at CRC St Albans at the time and came up to Melton for 4-6 weeks! Amazing coincidence and one for our 40 year History book.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Student Leadership Investiture

In the last week of Term 3, the school community gathered in the hall for the last time to acknowledge and thank the work of our 2018 senior student leaders and induct the 2019 senior student leaders at our full school assembly. The College Captains of 2018 Ethan Trethowan and Maddie McGill and 2019 Captains Dylan Hassan and Evana Miesen addressed the students, attached is a copy of their speeches. As you read them, you will no doubt be impressed by their insights and their leadership qualities. As a school community, we are fortunate and blessed to have such fine young people leading the students of CRC.

 Our Student Leaders for 2019 are:

Senior Leaders:

Deputy Captains 

I would also like to take this opprtunity to thank the following students who were outstanding leaders in 2018: 

Ethan Trethowan, Madalyn McGill, Jarrod Iaria, Boden Mugridge, Shehan Tennakoon, Rebecca Chin, Culain Ardley, Madeline Rizzo, Chloe Laurel, KhawTi Ling, Thomas Presnell, Georgina Azzopardi, Macy Le Huray, Corey Beaton, Erin Crowe, Harmonie Wegener, Kayla Davis, Renee Lancaster, Cassandra Nguyen, Veronica Thatcher, Danielle Sultana, Evana Miesen, Annmariya Praveen John, Denise D'Souza, Nicole Portelli, Dylan Hassan and Nikita Jarosinski.

Resilience Project App

I wrote in the last newsletter about having free access to the Resilience Project app because CRC Melton raised the most money for their Solomon Islands School project. The Resilience Project App is a daily well-being journal. Each day users will be prompted to identify their emotions, record moments of gratitude and practice mindfulness. The aim is to develop emotional literacy, engage with the positive things in life and be actively present. The school has been provided with 200 unique codes to access the app, if you are interested contact the school for a code and details on how to download.

Term 4 School Uniform

The start of Term 4 is a period of transition in the wearing of the school uniform. Students have the option of wearing either the summer or winter uniform in Term 4 up until the Melbourne Cup.  Stated below are the uniform requirements for Term 4. The school jumper is not the outer garment to be worn to and from school.

Boys

Blazer - CRC Blazer need not be worn in Terms 4

Trousers - Navy Blue with CRC monogram

Shorts - Navy Blue with CRC monogram. Worn with navy blue socks. Summer only

Shirt - White open neck shirt with CRC monogram

Jumper - CRC Jumper can only be worn to and from the College if under the Blazer

Tie - Optional. If worn, the tie is to be done up to the shirt collar and worn correctly

Shoes - Black leather lace-up school shoes

Socks - Navy Blue

Belts - Plain Black with traditional plain silver or gold buckle

Girls 

Blazer - CRC Blazer need not be worn in Terms 4

Dress - CRC Summer Dress (length to knee)

Jumper - CRC Jumper can only be worn to and from the College if under the Blazer

Shoes - Black leather lace-up school shoes

Socks - White anklets (no sports socks)

Hair - White, Black or Navy ribbons; clear or hair coloured combs

The only jewellery that is permitted in the ear is one plain silver or gold stud or one small sleeper. If sleepers are worn they must be removed during PE and at other times as requested by staff. No facial piercing is allowed. These items will be confiscated and returned at the end of term. All boys must be clean shaven.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal - Students

Maddy McGill.pdf
Dylan Hassan.pdf
Ethan Trethowan.pdf
Evana Miesen.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2018 Subject Selections

Thank you to all families who supported students in their 2019 subject selections. Initial Year 12 subject allocations were sent home at the end of Term 3 and changes will need to be finalised this week. Families need only return forms to the office if requesting a change.

Current Year 9 and 10 students will be interviewed over the next weeks to finalise their 2019 Year 10/11 electives. Once completed, confirmation letters will be sent home. Current Year 8 students will then be followed up for their Year 9 electives.

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

Thanks to all families who attended these interviews. I am sure the conversations proved useful to parents, students and staff.

Please feel free to provide any feedback to me on the format and operations of the interviews.

Fiesta for a Farmer

The year 12 Legal Studies class is holding a fundraiser to support Australian farmers in need. Please refer to the poster for details.

Students are able to pre-purchase their order to prevent queuing on the day. We have messages regarding this on student notices and on the school Facebook page.

ALP Capital Funding Announcement

See attached letter to parents regarding the Victorian Government Capital Funding Annoucement.

Stephen Elder

Catholic Education Melbourne Executive Director

For Parents - Victorian Government Capital Funding Announcement.pdf

Uniform Shop

Academy Uniforms have extended opening hours at the Melton Uniform Shop for the first two weeks of Term 4:

Thursday 11th October: 11:30am - 7:00pm

Thursday 18th October: 11:30am - 7:00pm

Usual opening hours during the school term are as follows:

Monday: 8:00am -10:00am

Thursday: 11:30am - 2:00pm

Meltown Youth Program

Please see attached flyer for Meltown Youth Program beginning Thursday 11th October.

Melton City Council

MELTOWN_YOUTH_FLYER_OCT_20183559.pdf

CRC St Albans 40th Anniversary

Please see attached information for Catholic Regional College, St Albans 40th Anniversary celebrations.

Weekly Reflection

Lord Teach Us To Pray

“If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my

Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”

                                                                                                                                                      (Matthew 18:15-20)

With Christ in our midst, we have the courage to say the words he gave us. For when we feel insignificant and have lost our sense of worth, our Lord teaches us to pray.

When we want to withdraw from our work to be with you in prayer, Lord, teach us to pray.

When we think of the future as fixed and impossible to change, Lord, teach us to pray.

And when we evade life’s deep demands by saying they are too idealistic, Lord, teach us to pray.

From the Principal

As Term 3 comes to an end, it is possible to reflect on the main events and opportunities that have allowed our students to display their talents. It started early in the term with the production – The Greatest Showcase - an exhilarating show of talent and fun. Our senior AFL girls and Year 9 boys and girls volleyball teams did well winning their respective grand finals.  Last Thursday evening I had the opportunity along with many families to attend our inaugural Years 7-10 Art Show, aptly titled Inspire. It was wonderful to see the number of families who came through with their son or daughter, who had the opportunity to show off their art work.  Our guests were also treated to a fine array of food prepared and presented by the Year 10 Food Technology class.

None of this work is possible without the dedication and commitment of the staff. It does prove when students are given opportunities and challenges are put in front of them, they consistently rise to meet the expectations.

Two weeks ago a group of young women from CRC attended the African Women’s Summit, the theme for this year was- Foster Collaborations, Enhance Growth through Self-Development. Our students had the opportunity to hear from leaders from business, health, academia and politics, it was a great experience for the students.

We wish our staff and students well and safe travels as they are attending The Ignite Conference, a Youth Conference for young Catholics from all over Australia from the 27th to 30th September in Brisbane.

I wrote in the newsletter a couple of weeks ago about having free access to the Resilience Project app because CRC Melton raised the most money for their Solomon Islands School project. The Resilience Project app is a daily well-being journal. Each day users will be prompted to identify their emotions, record moments of gratitude and practice mindfulness. The aim is to develop emotional literacy, engage with the positive things in life and be actively present. The school has been provided with 200 unique codes to access the app, if you are interested, contact the school for a code and details on how to download.

As I noted in last week’s newsletter, the upcoming holidays will be an important period of time for the students who are sitting the VCAA exams to consolidate the subject notes, practice exam questions, attend revision lectures and most importantly attend the VCE practice exams at the end of the second week of the holidays here at school. Students have been given a copy of the exam timetable, it is most important for students to attend these exams. Experience shows those who use their time productively over this period are in the good position to approach their final exams. The holidays should not be seen as holidays and for an opportunity to take a break from school and relax. A tip for students is to use their normal school timetable as a guide for a study program over this period.

Each year more than 220,000 students per year across Australia go through their Year 12 exams. Research has identified that this can be a highly stressful time for young people. Exam stress is an issue that permeates each school year and can become overwhelming in their final years of schooling.

Reach Out provides resources to schools and parents to promote student wellbeing, productivity and achievement. Free and available 24/7, ReachOut.com/Parents provides evidence-based practical support and tips that encourage effective communication and relationships between parents and young people aged 12–18 years, as well as easy-to-read information on a range of mental health and wellbeing issues. The service features more than 140 fact sheets, stories, practical tips and tools, and also provides access to an online community forum so that parents can connect with each other to share experiences in an anonymous, supportive space.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2019 VCE Subject Selections

2019 Year 12 VCE subject allocation sheets will be distributed to all Year 11 students this week. Please note that Year 11 students will only receive their sheets if 2019 re-enrolment and subject levies are finalised.

Year 10 students will receive their 2019 Year 11 VCE Subject allocations in the first week of Term 4, subject to re-enrolment and levy payments being finalised.

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

These will take place after school Tuesday, 18th September (4:00pm – 7:00pm) and Thursday 20th September (4:00pm – 8:30pm). Interviews link to Term 3 interim reports. Interview bookings are still open for Thursday.

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

End of Term

Students will finish classes this Thursday 20th September as Friday, 21st September is a Staff Professional Learning Day and classes will not be operating. 

Term 4 commences on Monday, 8th October, being day 1 of the timetable.

Uniform Shop

Academy Uniforms have extended opening hours at the Melton Uniform Shop for the first two weeks of Term 4:

Thursday 11th October: 11:30am - 7:00pm

Thursday 18th October: 11:30am - 7:00pm

Usual opening hours during the school term are as follows:

Monday: 8:00am -10:00am

Thursday: 11:30am - 2:00pm

Languages News

Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition

We are elated to announce that Ethan Trethowan received third prize for his outstanding performance at the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition. He was awarded his prize at the University of Melbourne on Friday night at the Award Ceremony. Congratulations Ethan. We are very proud of you. Tanti auguri!

Education Perfect Victorian Languages Championships - Indonesian and Italian

Congratulations to Ella Gallagher ranked 88th with 3,244 points with a gold award. Ophelia Fernando ranked 210th with 1,851 points with a bronze award Danielle Ide ranked 398th with 1141 points bronze award and Ajak Majok ranked 1001th with 515 points with a credit award. Well done on your outstanding performance which placed CRC Melton in THIRD position in the entire competition as well. Bravissimi ragazzi!!!! Saluti, Prof Russo, Pak Gavran, Prof Crocitti e Prof Alfonsi.

Exchange Student

What a pleasure it has been having Giuliana Lucci from Rome, Italy at our school this term. She has been in Victoria for three months and has thoroughly enjoyed her experience in our lucky country! We thank Adelaide Hansen and her family for hosting Giuliana. She has been an invaluable addition to our Italian classes and we will miss her dearly. We wish Giuliana the very best in her future endeavours. In bocca a lupo, Giuliana. Buon viaggio!

Science News

On Thursday 13th September, Year 7 Science classes had a presentation from Wild Action Zoo. Students had the opportunity to hear about a range of native wildlife, their ecosystems and how we can help to protect the environment. Students were able to pat and hold many of the animals including frogs, snakes, turtles, frilled neck lizards, baby crocodiles, native birds, and native marsupials.

CRC St Albans 40th Anniversary

Please see attached information for Catholic Regional College, St Albans 40th Anniversary celebrations.

Laura Cioccia

CRC St Albans

40th invitation st albans.pdf

Empowering Connections in STEMM

Amy Searle, a former CRC Melton and Sydenham student will be sitting on a panel discussion for High School girls looking for pathways into STEMM.

Empowering Connections in STEMM is being held on Wednesday 26 September, 2018. The event aims to connect high school students, teachers and parents with PhD students and professionals in science, technology, engineering, math and medicine (STEMM)! There will be the chance to ask questions about studying these fields, attending University and future career opportunities.

Guest speaker, Ms Kristine Hendry, is Senior Executive Officer of the Spinal Research Institute (SRI), a not-for-profit dedicated to supporting world-class clinical research and clinical trials in the field of spinal cord injury. Kristine will share the vision of the SRI and the work they do, as well as her career path within the computer science and technology sector.

STEMM Entrepreneur and Women in STEMM Australia Co-founder, Michelle Gallaher, will then lead a fascinating discussion with five professionals at different career stages in academia and industry, about the key decision-making times in their lives, what influenced their choices, and how to foster a much-needed culture shift toward greater diversity and inclusion, and how to maximise opportunities to pursue STEMM education and careers, and ensure more women in STEMM reach senior-level roles. How do we train and retain these talented professionals?

Gain valuable insight into how we can all better support our students, especially girls in STEMM, and accelerate their education and careers, and foster an environment where more women in STEMM can lead and excel.

The event aims to not only empower young women to pursue a career in STEMM, but also address the lack of diversity within our chosen fields. More information about this free event is available here:

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/empowering-connections-in-stemm-tickets-48112494767

Melton Lifelong Learning Festival

Melton City Council is delighted to welcome you to the inaugural Lifelong Learning Festival

Melton Lifelong Learning Festival is a three-day celebration of all that is lifelong, life-deep and life-wide learning across the City of Melton. It is an inclusive community event that provides opportunities for free activities and events that engage a diverse cohort of participants, across all age groups, abilities and interests.

The Festival offers everyone in our community a chance to investigate new learning experiences, meet and connect with new people, have fun and discover new interests. The 2018 event is our City’s first ever learning festival and we need your support to make it a success, so that in following years we can make it even better, bring in new events, sponsors and participants to reflect this diverse and dynamic learning community.

It is a true reflection of our amazing community that in this, our first year, we have over 130 free learning activities and events, at over 35 venues hosted by over 50 providers.

Learning is for everyone, and happens in many different settings throughout life. This festival encourages everyone, irrespective of age, ability or interest, to investigate, participate in, and celebrate the huge number of learning opportunities offered across the City of Melton.

The Festival plays a significant role in bringing people together to focus on lifelong, lifewide and lifedeep learning and understand the difference it can make to their lives and the beneficial impact on the community as a whole.

Sally Edwards

Lifelong Learning Officer | Melton City Council

MCC0090 LearningFestival_A4Flyer_FA1.pdf

Djerriwarrh Health School Holiday Picnic

On Thursday 27th September, Djerriwarrh Health Services project team will be hosting a School Holiday picnic for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families at Hannah Watts Park, Melton.

Please see attached flyer for more details. 

Charry Owens

Djerriwarrh Health Services

School Holiday Picnic_AboriginalFamilies.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Prayer for September 11

Strengthen the hands of all peoples to defend the common values of freedom and justice.

Inspire our leaders and diplomats to act wisely and to pursue peace everywhere in the world.

May we teach our children to learn and to think, to consider and to reason, to be loving

and courageous in thought and in deed, and to nurture hearts of wisdom

that they may do battle against fear, hatred and bigotry.

Bestow upon us all the blessings of peace, and may we live to see the day

when swords will be converted into ploughshares and nations will not learn war anymore.

Amen.

From the Principal

The Principal, Mr Sheehan is currently on study leave for the next three weeks therefore I will be undertaking his role as Acting Principal and Karina Dunne will be acting Deputy Principal – Students.

SACCSS Athletics

On a cold and blustering day last week, the College athletics team represented us at the SACCSS interschool athletics sports. This year we moved up into Division 1 which proved a good challenge for the team.  As a team we performed well with an outstanding individual result achieved by Montana Djatschenko, who was recognised for her achievements as the age champion. Congratulations to all students who participated and thank you to all staff who assisted on the day.

Bounce Program

Last Tuesday, a group of 11 boys from across Year 9 and 10 graduated from the Bounce Program that has been operating for the past 10 weeks.  The program saw the boys teamed up with mentors to identify goals and work within teams. It was a great learning experience for all those involved.

Year 12 Information

Year 12 students are fast coming to an end of their formal courses. The vast majority of students will complete their last SACs over the next two weeks. The school holidays will be an important period of time for the students who are sitting the VCAA exams to consolidate the subject notes, practice exam questions, attend revision lectures and most importantly attend the VCE practice exams at the end of the second week of the holidays here at school. Students have already been given a copy of the exam timetable. Experience shows those who use their time productively over this period are in a good position to approach their final exams.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2019 Year 9 Subject Selections

Year 8 students and families should note that 2019 Year 9 Elective choices have now closed for online selection. Any hard copy late selections must be given to Homeroom Teachers as soon as possible. These selections will not be included in the first round of elective allocations.

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

PSTI's will take place after school on Tuesday, 18th September (4:00–7:00pm) and Thursday, 20th September (4:00pm–8:30pm). These Interviews link to Term 3 Interim Reports that are now available. Interview bookings will open tomorrow, Wednesday 12th September.

Interim Reports are now available through our Parent Portal (they are not posted home). If you have any difficulty accessing your Portal, then please contact the College Office or email itsupport@crcmelton.com.au. As part of the report, a recommendation on attendance at Parent-Student-Teacher interviews is be included. Interviews are booked through our Parent Access Module (PAM).

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

Year 10 Vincit Work Experience

Year 10 Vincit Work Experience will operate the last week of this term (17th–21st September).

End of Term

Please note that Friday, 21st September is the last day of Term 3. This day will be a Staff Professional Learning Day and therefore no classes will be operating.

SACCSS Athletics Day

Tuesday 4th September saw just over 100 CRC Melton students attend the Division 1 SACCSS Athletics Carnival at Lakeside Stadium in the city.  It was an early cold start to the day and the kids were rugged up and ready to go.  By the time we arrived at the stadium, the sun was out and we had to put on sunscreen. 

The College competed well with many students gaining a 1^st 2^nd or 3^rd placing.  We ended up placing 5^th for the day which means we will be in Division 2 next year.

We did have 1 age group champion for the day:

Montana Djatschenko – 1^st in U17-20 girl’s triple jump, long jump, 100m, 200m and 400m.  The perfect score for age group champion.  Not only was she age group champion, but she broke 2 records, the Triple jump and the long jump.  The triple jump record had not been broken for 30 years and Montana broke it by 37cm and the long jump record had been held for 23 years and she smashed it by 29cm.

Montana also ran in the relay and on the last baton changeover we were coming last, then Montana received the baton and over took almost everyone and the girls came 2^nd.

Well done to everyone who came and participated and a big thank you to Miss Syme, Mr De Wit, Miss Brown, Mr Reithofer, Mrs Wall and 3 of our student teachers who helped out for the day.

Year 9 Volleyball

Congratulations to both our Year 9 girls and boys Volleyball teams who won their Premier League Grand Finals today.

They girls completed the season without losing a single set and continued this form by winning today in 3 straight sets.

The boys team won the Grand Final against the undefeated team this afternoon.

Well done to both teams.

VCE & Year 10 Drama Performance Night

The Year 11 and Year 10 Drama classes will be presenting their solo and group performances. All families and friends of Catholic Regional College are welcome to support the students. 

As the students performing will be assessed on this same evening, it is imperative that standard theatre etiquette is observed. In line with this, it would be advisable that babies or small children do not attend.

Venue: CRC Melton, Performing Arts Centre

Date: Monday 17th September

Time: 6:30pm SHARP

Year 10 History Excursion

On Wednesday 5th September, 45 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.

LOTE News

Italian Migration

On Thursday 6th September, the Year 9 Italian students were privileged to hear Archimede Fusillo, a famous author of Italian background, who has written many short stories and novels such as: Sparring with Shadows and The Dons. This latter novel has been read by some Year 9 students during Reading Time for English.

Archie spoke of his Fellowship Study, which involved visiting Italy last year and speaking to migrants who migrated to Australia and then later, returning to their country of birth. The reasons were all so diverse. The students thoroughly enjoyed the presentation as it was very thought provoking. Imagine wanting to stay in Australia, the land of so many opportunities, but your family refuses to follow you!

Host Families

If you are interested in hosting a student from our Sister School in Cividale, Italy please email crusso@crcmelton.com.au.

I am sure you will enjoy the experience especially if you are visiting Italy in the near future.

Maths Games Days

Last week we saw a team of students from Year 11 travel to Camberwell Grammar School and two teams from Year 8 to Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School to represent CRC Melton at the annual MAV Maths Games day. This week, two Year 7 teams travelled to Waverley Christian College and also participated  in this amazing experience.

A Maths Games Day is an opportunity for students to:

• develop their mathematical talents and thinking skills in a setting where maths is regarded as fun and worthwhile
• work with like-minded students from a diverse range of schools
• participate in mathematical activities without the usual class room pressures
• win prizes and rewards
• get excited about maths!

Maths Games Days are a very effective vehicle for getting young people – particularly in the middle years of schooling – enthused about maths.

Teams of 4 students compete for a variety of prizes including individual prizes for creativity, contribution to group work, and lucky door prizes. The participants are drawn from those who have a keen interest in mathematics and who can operate as a team. Lateral thinking wins the day.

Year 7 Team

• Riley Poritt
• Hayley Owen
• Lachlan Ward
• Alana Martin
• David Balila
• Tait Wolfe
• Sarah Wilson
• Adorrina Jeevakenthiran
• Jai Rowley

Year 8 Team 

• Anupa Peramuna
• Anuji Peramuna
• Amulya Madanu
• Monique Wroblewski 
• Rowan Dewapriya   
• Jayavi Meemaduma
• Lucy Taylor
• Abby Timms

Year 11 Team

• Megan Baselmans
• Ethan Williams
• Liam Beck
• Thanuri Meemaduma

Accompanying teachers were Georgina Solano, Ingrid McRae and Silvana Nuspan.

“It is wonderful to see so many students sharing their passion for mathematics.”

Our Year 11 students competed against 29 Year 11 and 12 school teams and were ranked 24th.

Our Year 8 students competed against 88 school teams and were ranked 80th and 84th.

Our Year 7 students competed against 40 school teams and were ranked 36th and 37th.

Social Justice News

Food Drive for Asylum Seekers

The VICSEG group are collecting food items that can be donated to the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre. This organisation works with refugees and Asylum seekers who have just arrived in Australia and are unable to work to support themselves. These people are the real vulnerable and oppressed in our communities. They need to be welcomed and cared for by us - their new neighbours. The Centre provides meals and also a pantry where tinned and packet foods can be accessed for free. The food is all donated by good people in the community.

Donations can be left in the tubs at the student office. Items such as; packets of rice, noodles, pasta, tea, coffee, milo, flour, sugar etc. Tinned items such as fish, tomatoes, pasta sauces, evaporated milk, beans, vegetables, soups etc. Any long life products are welcomed as well. Donations will be accepted until 12th October. We need your help to make this happen.

St. Vinnies Melton Youth Conference...Making a Difference

Do you have a passion for the world you live in? Want to help make the world a better place? Then join the St. Vincent de Paul Youth Conference. The conference is a group run by young volunteers, who plan community outreach programs. Some of the programs include, assisting on the Vinnies Soup Vans, conducting home visits, running activity days for kids and many more! Please contact youth team at youth@svdp-vic.org.au if you would like to join.

Coles Sports for Schools Vouchers Update

Earlier this year the school community participated in the Coles Sports for Schools Vouchers promotion. Ms Brown and Ms Naumcevski worked together to count all of our vouchers. As a school we collected almost 36,000 vouchers. Ms Brown from the Library and Miss Brown from the PE department spent the vouchers wisely so we could put together a set of equipment to be distributed to each year level. These items can be borrowed by students at lunchtimes. This week our delivery arrived! This created much excitement when we saw just how much we were able to purchase.

We purchased:

• 24 High bounce balls
• 9 skipping ropes
• Large set of marking Cones
• 5 AFL balls
• 10 Basketballs
• 10 Mini Volleyballs
• 10 Netballs
• 10 Soccer balls
• 10 Volleyballs
• A Throw and Catch kit containing various items including bean bags

We would like to offer congratulations to the CRC community for their efforts in collecting so many vouchers and we are sure the students are grateful as well for all the fantastic new equipment they now have to use over the coming sunny months.

Weekly Reflection

Feast of St Teresa of Calcutta

After her death on Sept. 5, 1997, Mother Teresa was canonized as a Saint in a ceremony at the St Peter’s Square in Vatican City in September 2016 by Pope Francis.

Here are a few inspirational quotes by Mother Teresa:

“Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.”

“We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature - trees, flowers, grass- grow in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence... We need silence to be able to touch souls.”

“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”

“Let us touch the dying, the poor, the lonely and the unwanted according to the graces we have received and let us not be ashamed or slow to do the humble work.”

“One of the greatest diseases is to be nobody to anybody.”

Prayer

Saint Teresa, you promised to continuously bring the light of love to those on earth; pray for us that we also may long to satiate the burning thirst of Jesus by loving Him ardently, sharing in His sufferings joyfully, and serving Him wholeheartedly in our brothers and sisters, especially those most unloved and unwanted.   Amen

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2019 VCE Subjects

Please note that due to low student numbers, Year 12 Australian History, Year 11 Australian & Global Politics, Geography, Outdoor Education, Dance and Lab Skills will not run in 2019. VCE Subject blockings are progressing and students will be advised of their initial allocations in the coming weeks.

2019 Year 9 Subject Selections

Next years elective choices are due into Homeroom Teachers for current Year 8 students by tomorrow, 5th September. After this date, WebPreferences will be closed and students will have to submit hard copies, which will not be included in the first round of elective allocations.

Public Ettiquette

Families and students are reminded that whilst in College uniform to and from school, students are subject to our College behavioural expectations. If using a town bus, they are expected to offer their seats to adults, in particular elderly people or parents with children. Language should also reflect our College expectations. 

Parent-Student-Teacher Interviews

These will take place after school on Tuesday 18th September (4–7pm) and Thursday 20th September (4–8:30pm). These Interviews will link to the Term 3 Interim Reports that will be available next week. Information on how to book interviews will be in next week’s newsletter.

End of Term

Please note that Friday, 21st September is the last day of Term 3. This day will be a Staff Professional Learning Day and therefore no classes will be operating.

From the Director of Learning

NAPLAN Results

NAPLAN results for all Year 7 and 9 students were released late last week. Parents/Carers will receive a personal NAPLAN result in the coming weeks. 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 as it may be required in later years for scholarship applications or change of schools.

It was pleasing to note that the College has shown a noticeable improvement on student achievement in the Year 9 Numeracy, Reading and Spelling tests. The College believes the Maths program in Year 7 to 9 has improved not only student ability in Maths, but also their confidence and belief in their ability to succeed in maths learning. 

We continue to encourage all parents/carers to set up an evening routine for their student that includes some reading for pleasure time each day.  The reading for pleasure time set aside for all Year 7 to 10 students during the school day, along with a variety of focused literacy initiatives from each Domain, is believed to have contributed to the increase in achievement on the literacy tests at Year 9.  Melton Library is a great resource for students to access a range of reading material, including an electronic library that may be accessed from home.

Congratulations to all Year 7 and 9 students on their efforts with NAPLAN this year.

Parent Access Module

You will have previously read about the update that has occurred on the Parent Access Module (PAM) that enables it to email parents when a teacher assigns a letter to a student. This means parents will receive instant notification of the assignment of a variety of letters, including Unsatisfactory Performance Letters, Attendance Letters, N Redemption Letters and VCE N Letters. These letters allow parents to monitor their student’s academic performance and support the achievement of successful academic outcomes for their student.  To ensure you are receiving this very important correspondence from the College, please ensure  the email registered on PAM is correct and monitored daily.

CRC Confirmation

Last week four of our students celebrated their Confirmation at St Anthony of Padua in Melton South.

Nicholas Alfonsi and Anthony Cariolo from Year 7 were joined by Baylie Maple and Liam Machado from Year 8 for what was a wonderful evening. The boys were thankful for their preparation for this sacrament which was overseen by Sr Mary Sarah.

Mathematics News

What is Maths Anxiety?

You may have heard of the term Maths Anxiety and wondered what it means?

Last Friday 24th August afternoon, 3AW invited callers to discuss their experience and discussed the differences between long term maths anxiety and anxiety in the moment.

Maths anxiety is the type of anxiety that is experienced when maths is part of someone’s immediate environment, for example, when a student is doing homework or completing a maths quiz. Long term anxiety is more enduring and relates to how threatening the individual perceives maths to be.

On Monday 23rd and Tuesday 24th July, I commenced working with our feeder school leaders at the Australian Council for Educational Research on what Maths Anxiety is and how we can help students (and teachers) who experience this. This is a long term project that we are working on in conjunction with St Anthony’s, St Bernard’s, St. Catherines and St. Dominic’s Primary Schools Numeracy leaders.

ICAS UNSW Global Assessment Papers in Mathematics

Thankyou to all students who participated in the ICAS UNSW Global Assessment papers that were conducted in the second week of August. ICAS is an independent, skills-based assessment program which recognises and rewards student achievement. It is an additional way to better understand what students can and can’t do at a point in time and track learning as students’ progress from year to year. This year we had participation from students in Years 7-10.

Over one million student entries are accepted from over 6,300 schools in Australia and New Zealand annually. In addition, students from over 20 countries including Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa and the USA participate in ICAS each year.

Humanities News

Unit 2 Legal Studies Excursion

On August 27 the Unit 2 Legal Studies students visited the Melbourne Magistrates Court and the Victorian Parliament.  At the courts, the students had the opportunity to observe the court in action.  They witnessed a committal hearing, some summary cases, intervention applications, adjournments and many other court procedures.  At the parliament, the students participated in a role play and had the opportunity to sit in the lower house chamber of the Victorian Parliament.  It was an excellent opportunity for our students to experience the law-making institutions of Victoria first hand.

Student acknowledgment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander History and Culture

Earlier in the term, CRC Melton celebrated NAIDOC week where students were encouraged to learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture. Students from each year level cut a copy of their hand out in a colour that represented either the Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander flag.  For example, Year 7 students hands are all represented by yellow, Year 8 red, Year 9 black, Year 10 blue, Year 11 royal blue and Year 12 white.  We collected approximately 700 hands and collated them into the artwork displayed.  This representation of student work is now proudly displayed in the foyer of our school.

LOTE News

On Wednesday 29th August, the Year 7 students were immersed in a Languages Day. We are blessed to be part of a multicultural community and we wanted to celebrate everything which encompasses languages. We are all proud of the heritage we come from.

The students danced, painted, made masks, competed in competitions, played bingo and musical instruments. We also of course, ate gelati and pizza. The Indonesian activities were very entertaining and so too was the Italian Drama show. I think we all now know how to make gnocchi, in a hilarious manner.

Congratulations to 11O who won the Languages Quiz and a big thank you to the Year 7 students for your enthusiasm. The day was highly successful and we look forward to what 2019 will bring.

VCE and Year 10 Drama Performance Night

The Year 11 and Year 10 Drama classes will be presenting their solo and group performances. All families and friends of Catholic Regional College are welcome to support the students. 

As the students performing will be assessed on this same evening, it is imperative that standard theatre etiquette is observed. In line with this, it would be advisable that babies or small children do not attend.

Venue: CRC Melton, Performing Arts Centre

Date: Monday 17th September

Time: 6:30pm SHARP

Unit 3/4 Practice Exams

All students who are undertaking a Unit 3/4 subject will be expected to attend practice exams scheduled in the school holidays and first two days of Term 4.

These will be held in the Trade Training Centre. VCAA invigilators will be ensuring the exams are run smoothly, with staff members available on campus to supervise students also.

Students can wear casual clothes for the holiday exams, but must wear the school uniform for exams over the two days in Term 4.

These practice exams will provide students with the invaluable opportunity of sitting fully timed exams under the conditions they will experience in Oct/Nov for their VCAA examinations.

If you have any questions, please email clock@crcmelton.com.au.

Carissa Lock

VCE Coordinator

Practice exams 2018 newsletter.pdf

Artist in Residence Program

On 18th and 19th June and 27th and 28th August, Catholic Regional College had an Artist in Residence Program operate during the Year 7 Art classes. Serena Geddes, an international book illustrator and animator conducted a number of drawing and painting workshops for the students. Serena has helped bring to life numerous Walt Disney sequels such as Peter Pan: Return to Neverland, The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea and The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride. She has also illustrated numerous books for many American Publishers such as the Lulu Bell and Misty Inn Series. Serena displayed a folio of her work to view and admire, in order to help motivate many of the young aspiring artists at our school and to encourage them to dabble in their own artistic practice. The students were thoroughly engaged and mesmerized by Serena’s skills and talent. She taught them many drawing and watercolour painting techniques such as blending, rendering, shape building and colour mixing. This program allowed the students to draw from their imagination and to communicate their ideas in a creative manner. Artworks from this activity are displayed at front reception in order to celebrate the students’ achievements.

Artwork 1 by Serena Geddes: “A Lion Wearing a Coat Knitting”
Artwork 2 by Olivia Beck (7C): “An Elephant Wearing Glasses Washing the Windows”
Artwork 3 by Andre Nguyen (7C): “A Giraffe Wearing Rollerblades Knitting”
Artwork 4 by Serena Geddes: “A Cat Wearing Rollerblades Teaching to Monsters”

Watan - Special Movie Event

Watan a film by James L Brown

Watan (Homeland) explores two of the biggest refugee camps in Jordan - Zaatari and Azraq - along with neighbouring city Jerash, to paint intimate portraits of the men, women, and children who have found themselves there. Through observation of daily life, Watan builds a simple yet powerful series of interwoven stories that go beyond the statistics to find the human heart of the refugee crisis. These are stories of sadness, fear, beauty, and surprises: from a young woman raising a family that is not hers, to a seventeen-year-old concreter, an all-women's filmmaking class, a boy who finds meaning through football, and more. 

Watan seeks to inspire action through connection, empathy, and recognition, in a way that allows these people to speak for themselves. It shines a much-needed light on the human stories at the centre of the global debate of immigration and asylum, giving a voice to the Syrian refugees in Jordan 

When: Tuesday 11th September at 7pm - 8pm

Where: Catholic Regional College, Performing Arts Centre 109-141 Bulmans Rd, Melton West

Cost: Gold Coin Donation – Money raised will be donated to the Asylum Seekers Resource Centre

Due to limited seating, please reserve your seat through. Trybooking using the following link. https://www.trybooking.com/XWTL

For further information, contact Kerrie-Ann Matthews 8099 6000.

Youth Group and Family BBQ & Fun Night

The Missionaries of Love and Peace will be hosting a new Youth Group and Youth and Family BBQ & Fun Night.

We hope to bring together Catholic youth in the Spirit of the Two Hearts of Jesus and Mary where we can share our beloved Faith in an environment of friendship and fun. Should you wish to make any enquiries, please feel free to email or call us on the email and mobile listed on the adverts attached.

Youth Group flyer pdf.pdf
Youth Group BBQ flyer pdf.pdf

Melton City Council News

Teenage Holiday Program

The Teenage Holiday Program will be running from 24th September til 7th October.

Bookings open at 10:30am on Thursday 13th September. Bookings will only be accepted by Customer Service on 9747 7200. Please don’t call earlier than the booking date/time as customer service will kindly ask you to call back on the time mentioned above.

Due to the popular demand of the program and to make sure there is equity amongst all participants, each participant can only book a maximum of 2 activities on the booking day. Additional activities requested will be added to a waiting list. Participants who are on the waiting list will be notified if a spot becomes available after the booking date.

Please find attached documents with more information including the flyer and registration forms. It must be filled out to be able to attend the program.

Melton Basketball Tournament

3x3 Basketball Tournament - Registrations now open!

These school holidays, get the kids busy and moving. Boys and girls aged 10-17 at any skill level welcome. The tournament will be split into 3 age groups, U/13's (min. age 10 years), 15's and 17's.

Cost: $8 per player, 4 players per team, guaranteed 3 games.

See attached registration form and flyer for more information. 

Melton City Council

SEPTEMBER THP FLYER,PERMISSION FORM & LETTER.pdf
3x3 Registration Form.pdf
3x3flyer doc.pdf

Map Your Future Programs

Map Your Future aims to assist young people with a disability with planning for their future by defining and understanding their goals and developing skills around self-advocacy, particularly in relation to the NDIS. The program aims to give young people more clear direction around their personal goals and expectations and build confidence around decision-making and speaking up for themselves.

We are running two Map Your Future workshops in September:

1.       Woodend Neighbourhood House on 11 September 2018 (4PM-8PM)

2.       Darley Civic & Community Hub on 27 September 2018 (12.30PM-4.30PM)

The program is free of cost for students aged 16-25. Participants receive a Certificate of Completion at the conclusion of the program.

Registration is availble to young people with disabilities via the following registration link:

WOODEND:  https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/woodend-map-your-future-program-registration-47454422455
DARLEY:       https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/darley-map-your-future-program-registration-47451417467

Program Information:

For young people, navigating the opportunities and challenges of leaving school, embarking upon further education, venturing through a world of changing relationships and making decisions around employment and community engagement can be very exciting, but also very overwhelming. For young people with a disability, interacting with systems such as the NDIS can add further complexity which can leave young people battling just to get through each day, rather than positively planning for the future.

Map Your Future is designed to give participants a clearer understanding of what they are progressing towards, and then assist the participant to connect their goals with the potential support offered by the NDIS, as well as providing valuable skills around self-advocacy and speaking up.

How does the program run?

• 4 hour group workshop
• 3 x one-to-one coaching calls (via Skype, phone or in person). Each call could take up to one hour

MYF provides participants the opportunity to workshop their goals and planning with other young people, as well as to receive supportive and specific one on one coaching on how to make the most of the opportunities available to them.

For more information, contact Emily Tester at ydasmapyourfuture@yacvic.org.au.

Koorie Kids Dental Day

See attached flyer for the Koorie Kids Dental Day at Melton Health Dental Department on Monday 1st October. Bookings can be made by contacting Charry on 8746 1511 or email: CharryO@djhs.org.au

This service is available to Melton Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

Koori Kids Dental Day Flyer Oct.pdf

Weekly Reflection

St. Augustine's Prayer to the Holy Spirit 

Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy. Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy. Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy.

Amen.

From the Principal

Letter of His Holiness Pope Francis to the people of God

Parents may have noted that both Pope Francis and our new Archbishop Peter A Comensoli have published letters recently in relation to the issue of clerical sexual abuse in the Church.

Pope Francis, in part, wrote:

“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it” (1 Cor 12:26).  These words of Saint Paul forcefully echo in my heart as I acknowledge once more the suffering endured by many minors due to sexual abuse, the abuse of power and the abuse of conscience perpetrated by a significant number of clerics and consecrated persons.  Crimes that inflict deep wounds of pain and powerlessness, primarily among the victims, but also in their family members and in the larger community of believers and nonbelievers alike.  Looking back to the past, no effort to beg pardon and to seek to repair the harm done will ever be sufficient.  Looking ahead to the future, no effort must be spared to create a culture able to prevent such situations from happening, but also to prevent the possibility of their being covered up and perpetuated.  The pain of the victims and their families is also our pain, and so it is urgent that we once more reaffirm our commitment to ensure the protection of minors and of vulnerable adults.

For the full text, clink the link below

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2018-08/pope-francis-letter-people-of-god-sexual-abuse.html

Parents & Friends Meeting

Parents & Friends Meeting is this Wednesday night 29th August starting at 7pm.  All welcome.

2018 Book Week

Last week we celebrated 2018 Book Week in the Library. This year’s theme ‘Find your Treasure’ allowed for some fun activities beginning with Staff Dress like a Pirate Day to get the students engaged. Students have enjoyed activities such as a digital treasure hunt, making treasure slime and marshmallow cannons. As well as a pirate selfie booth and a competition matching teachers to their favourite books. Year 8 were treated to an afternoon with Melbourne author Archie Fusillo. Archie spoke to the students about his creative writing process and encouraged them to treasure and write about their own life stories. Fun was had by all this week and it has been great seeing some new faces in the library to try out our activities.

Community Soccer Time

This project focusses on developing soccer skills for children from 11-18 years from African background. The children are being trained by Reclink Australia. The leaders from this group will be trained to be referees who will eventually take over the project.

If you would like to be a part of a great youth leadership opportunity, please feel free to contact Melton City Council.

Inderdeep Thapar

Neighbourhood Programs Officer, Melton City Council

Community Soccer Time Flyer.pdf

CyberParent

Australian Multicultural Foundation has released the CyberParent Web App to help parents support their children to use the internet in safe and healthy ways. This app is available in Dinka and seventeen other languages. It is accessible on any internet device including mobile phones and is easy to use with audio and visual supports.

http://www.amf.net.au/entry/cyberparent

Youth Group and Family BBQ & Fun Night

The Missionaries of Love and Peace will be hosting a new Youth Group and Youth and Family BBQ & Fun Night.

We hope to bring together Catholic youth in the Spirit of the Two Hearts of Jesus and Mary where we can share our beloved Faith in an environment of friendship and fun. Should you wish to make any enquiries, please feel free to email or call us on the email and mobile listed on the adverts attached.

Youth Group flyer pdf.pdf
Youth Group BBQ flyer pdf.pdf

Weekly Reflection

Acceptance and forgiveness in the Scriptures

Loving Lord, you tell us in the Bible that whatever wrong we have done you tread down our faults to the bottom of the sea.

We know there is no need to keep thinking about what we have done in the past,

because you pardon the wrongs we have done, and you delight in showing mercy.

You bind up all our wounds and you renew us by your love.

Lord, you love all that you have made, and it is your very nature to love and forgive.

Lead us to be generous in accepting and forgiving others in the same way as you accept and forgive us.

Amen. 

From the Principal

2019 College Captain

Congratulations to Evana Miesen and Dylan Hassan who have been appointed as the 2019 College Captains. 

Principals meeting with Department of Education

This afternoon I am attending a meeting with DEECD officials and Principals of other secondary schools in Melbourne.

This is the third such meeting that myself and Mr Blackley have been part of this year.

The purpose of this meeting is to to identify effective ways to engage at-risk youth in education, with a focus on school-level/community approaches.

Principals are hoping that schools can:

• improve educational attainment and retention rates amongst at-risk youth
• identify effective, evidence and outcome driven practices which could be replicated
• identify best practice approaches informing department’s culturally and linguistically diverse work and ongoing operational policy. 

As part of this program we have engaged a mentor to help support the high numbers of students from CALD backgrounds. Two mentors have been appointed, one at Melton Secondary College and one at our College to work with students, parents and staff.

We welcome Simma Maniel to our community and look forward to him working with us. He will be working with us on Tuesday's and Wednesday's.

Parent/guardian School Improvement Survey

As you are aware, each year our school participates in School Improvement Surveys to gather information from school staff, students and parents/guardians to help improve our school. The surveys are organised by Catholic Education Melbourne (CEM). The survey of parents/guardians will be open from Monday 3 September and needs to be completed by Sunday 16 September.

When the survey is open, I will email a link to parent/guardians to access the survey.

I hope you will take the time to complete the survey. Our school believes it is important to encourage parent voice to help shape the ongoing improvement of the school. The survey will help us identify the strengths of our school and areas for improvement.  The results will benefit everyone within the school community by providing valuable information about the ways in which our school can be improved.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

PE Uniform

All students are required to wear the correct uniform at the correct times on all occasions. The PE uniform clearly states students are required to wear CRC sport socks. It is advisable to have more than one pair of CRC sport socks to ensure students are in the correct uniform each day the PE uniform is worn. Students are not permitted to wear visible hoodies under the PE uniform.

Poetry Competition

At the full school assembly early in the term the student audience had the opportunity to hear the winner of the Yr 8 Slam Poetry competition. A sample of student work is below.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal - Students

Hope.pdf
Seat.pdf
Dear Bully.pdf
Nathan Furtoda.pdf
Expectations vs reality.pdf
Marina Mitic.pdf
In the human world.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2019 Subject Selections

Year 9 students must submit their Year 10, 2019 Final Selection page (from Selection Guide) and a copy of their Web Preferences receipt to their Homeroom teacher by Thursday, 23rd August.

Year 8 students and families, please note that information and selection guides for their Year 9, 2019 electives will be distributed on Tuesday, 28th August with final selections due on Wednesday, 5th September.

Staff Service Day

Friday, 24th August is the College’s Staff Service Day. The College will be closed as staff undertake various Social Justice activities.

From the Director of Learning

As you know, our Parent Access Module (PAM) has undergone an update and will now email parents when a teacher assigns a letter to a student. This means parents will receive instant notification of the assignment of a variety of letters including Unsatisfactory Performance Letters, Attendance Letters, N Redemption Letters and VCE N Letters. These letters allow parents to monitor their student’s academic performance and support the achievement of successful academic outcomes for their student. In the coming weeks, teachers will no longer notify parents of the assignment of a letter via an email, the system will do it automatically using the email you have registered on your PAM account.

All parents/guardians are required to log in to the Parent Access Module to check that the email registered is correct and monitored daily. If the email is not correct, please note you will not receive these notifications and it will remain your responsibility to log on the PAM periodically to check for learning feedback in the form of letters.

Casual Clothes Day

On Thursday 23rd August, the College will be having a casual clothes day to support the students going to the Ignite Youth Conference in Brisbane in the September school holidays. It is a conference where students from all over Australia come together to deepen their faith and meet other like-minded students. It is a great opportunity for our students and we are excited to bring a number of students for the first time from Catholic Regional College, Melton. Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing for the day and bring along a donation of $2 to support the cause.   The theme is, "Keep warm and dress for the cold".  Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing for the day. Any student that is not dressed appropriately will be asked to go home and change into their full school Winter uniform. We thank everyone for their support. 

Social Justice News

World’s Greatest Shave

What an event it was! Friday lunchtime saw a huge crowd gather for the “greatest shave” of Rebecca Chin, Cassandra Nguyen and Cooper Brown all in the name of raising funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.   Family members attended as well in support for their children.

What amazing young people we have. The students wer participating for various reasons but basically wanted to show support for those that have suffered with any form of blood cancers. The long hair is being sent off to be turned into wigs (for those who have lost their hair) and the short hair will be made into floatable booms that are used to soak up oil spills.  The students, with the support of the community have raised approximately $4,000. Congratulations to our three “stars” and thank you to all that supported them. It’s a fantastic effort for a wonderful cause.

Jesus asked us to help the poor and the poor in spirit. Friday was a perfect example of that putting faith into action.

The Winter Sleep Out 2018

On Friday night students from across all year levels along with 5 Staff spent the night at school, sleeping rough in order to raise awareness around the issue of homelessness. Between the group we raised $1912 that will be donated to St. Vincent De Paul and to Hope St. Both organisations work for the care of the homeless, the latter working particularly in Melton.

The message that came across from all of our amazing guest speakers (including a past student) was that homelessness does not discriminate, it effects people from all sections of society and that it is important to reach out to someone if experiencing hardship.  There was much focus on our own area of Melton and its surroundings.

The Sleepout gave me an insight into the issues faced by homeless people. It was extremely informative on what support systems are available to those who are experiencing homelessness in a local and national sense. Moreover, it left me more educated and attentive to the issue of homelessness - Annmariya John-Praveen

Congratulations to the whole community, including those that participated, those that sponsored students and those that donated. These funds will make a difference to the lives of many.

Year 8 Humanities Exhibition

Last Thursday, the Year 8 Humanities students held an exhibition displaying the wonderful talents and innovative ideas developed throughout their Business Economics Unit. Families were invited to attend the expo which was held in the schools Performing Arts Centre. Students were required to pitch their product or service to the audience, create a prototype of their product and produce an advertisement encouraging consumers to purchase their product. Overall it was an excellent night which displayed the diverse talents of our Year 8 students and their Humanities classrooms.

Weekly Reflection

Feast of the Assumption

Almighty and everlasting God,
You have taken up body and soul
into the heavenly glory the Immaculate Virgin Mary,
Mother of Your Son: Grant, we beseech You,
that, ever intent upon heavenly things,
we may be worthy to be partakers of her glory.
Through Jesus Christ Your Son, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
One God, forever and ever. Amen

From the Principal

Daily Mass

Beginning with tomorrow morning’s 8.00am Mass to celebrate the Assumption of Mary, we will be offering an 8.00am Mass each weekday, except Tuesdays, from now on in the College Chapel.

It is a great opportunity for our staff, students and families to celebrate the Eucharist and come together as members of our College to pray.

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2019 Subject Selections

2019 Year 11 and 12 subject selections have now closed. All students should have lodged their Final Selection page (from Selection Guide) and a copy of their Web Preferences receipt with their Homeroom Teacher.  Any late selections can only be submitted by paper copy and as they are late submissions, may result in subject preferences being missed. Students will be given their allocations later in the term. VCAL students will be notified of their application success.

Year 9 students must submit their Year 10, 2019 Final Selection page (from Selection Guide) and a copy of their Web Preferences receipt with their Homeroom teacher by Thursday, 23rd August.

Year 8 students and families, please note that information and selection guides for their Year 9, 2019 electives will be distributed on 28th August with final selections due on 5th September.

Staff Service Day

Friday, 24th August is the College’s Staff Service Day. The College will be closed this day as staff undertake various Social Justice activities.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Mentor Program

In partnership with Melton Secondary College, CRC Melton lodged an application with the Victorian Government’s Place Based Partnerships to support School Engagement and Completion Initiative. Our application was based on engaging mentors to help support the high numbers of students from CALD backgrounds. 

It was recently announced that we were successful in our application. Two mentors have been appointed, one in each school, to work with students, parents and staff. Simma will be working with us on Tuesday's and Wednesday's. We welcome Simma Maniel to our community and look forward to him working with us.

2019 European Tour

CRC Melton 2019 European Tour

There will be an information evening for all families with students who are attending the European Tour in 2019 on Thursday, 30th August at 7:00pm in the Mary MacKillop PAC. This will be our last planning session until just before the tour and as such, all families should attend. 

Any questions that you would like covered or otherwise, please contact Carissa Lock at clock@crcmelton.com.au.

Melton Basketball Association

Melton Basketball Association is holding tryouts on Sunday 7th October. Please see below attachement for more information, or contact Melton Basketball Association on 9747 2002 or e-mail: manager@meltonbasketball.com.au.

Weekly Reflection

Ever generous God,
You inspired Saint Mary MacKillop
To live her life faithful to the Gospel of Jesus Christ
and constant in bringing hope and encouragement
to those who were disheartened, lonely or needy.
With confidence in your generous providence
and through the intercession of Saint Mary MacKillop
We ask that you grant our request……………….
We ask that our faith and hope be fired afresh by the Holy Spirit
so that we too, like Mary MacKillop, may live with courage, trust and openness.
Ever generous God hear our prayer.
We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.

From the Principal

Tomorrow is the Feast Day of Saint Blessed Mary Mackillop, Australia’s first Saint.

Last Wednesday night, our new Archbishop Peter Comensoli referred to Mary Mackillop in his Homily, on taking the ‘first step’ in proclaiming Jesus Christ:

‘We need only to take a first step. Here, in Melbourne, we have a home-grown example of one such first-stepper, Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Just up on Brunswick St, in the ACU quadrangle you will pass on the way to the reception this evening, there is a statue of a young Mary on the threshold of saintliness. She is sitting on a bench looking out, poised for her future, about to get on the move. I’ve come from the city (Sydney) where Mary completed her missionary journey, to the city where she began it. You are the Church that produced Australia’s first saint. And as Mary sits eager and expectant to what lies before her, I now join you on this threshold, poised in anticipation of what we are to do in Christ Jesus.

CRC Sports Stadium

Parents will have noticed a lot of progress in the building of the Sports Stadium in the last month as shown in the photo below.

Year 8 Coordinator

Congratulations to Jordan Reithofer who has taken over the Year 8 Coordinator position. Jordan can be contacted at jreithofer@crcmelton.com.au for any Year 8 enquiries.

Fees

Re-enrolment occurs during August. Parents are reminded that school fee payments need to be up to date before re-enrolment.

From the Deputy Principal (Staff)

2019 Subject Selections

Year 10 and 11 students need to finalise their 2019 subject selections this week with their Final Selection page (from Selection Guide) and copy of their WebPreferences receipt due Friday, 10th August.  Please ensure these are submitted on time as late submissions may result in subject preferences being missed due to VCE numbers being processed and initial blockings completed. Students will be given their initial allocations later in the term. VCAL students will be notified of their application success or not.

Year 9 students and parents/guardians are invited to join us at 7pm this Wednesday, August 8 for our Year 10 2019 Information Evening.  I strongly encourage all families to attend as the Year 10 Elective selections are by far the most complicated over all year levels.

Buses

It has come to our attention that a small minority of students are not boarding Bacchus Marsh Coaches in a safe manner. Parents of students whose behaviour endangers others in boarding will be contacted. Students will be at risk of being excluded from using the buses.

From the Director of Learning

Our Parent Access Module (PAM) has undergone an update and will now email parents when a teacher assigns a letter to a student. This means parents will receive instant notification of the assignment of a variety of letters including Unsatisfactory Performance Letters, Attendance Letters, N Redemption Letters and VCE N Letters. These letters allow parents to monitor their student’s academic performance and support the achievement of successful academic outcomes for their student. In the coming weeks, teachers will no longer notify parents of the assignment of a letter via an email, the system will do it automatically using the email you have registered on your PAM account.

All parents/guardians are required to log in to the Parent Access Module to check that the email registered is correct and monitored daily. If the email is not correct, please note you will not receive these notifications and it will remain your responsibility to log in to PAM periodically to check for learning feedback in the form of letters.

Casual Clothing Day

On Thursday 23rd of August the College will be having a casual clothes day to support the students going to the Ignite Youth Conference in Brisbane in the September school holidays. It is a conference where students from all over Australia come together to deepen their faith and meet other like-minded students. It is a great opportunity for our students and we are excited to take a number of students for the first time from Catholic Regional College, Melton.

Any student who wishes to support the Ignite group is asked to donate $2 on the day and can then wear casual clothes.  The theme is, "Keep warm and dress for the cold".  Students are expected to wear appropriate clothing for the day and any student that is not dressed appropriately will be asked to go home and change into their full school Winter uniform. We thank everyone for their support. 

City of Melbourne Go Karting Titles - Ryan Bettes

Congratulations to Ryan Bettes who raced in the City of Melbourne Titles on the weekend in Port Melbourne, one of the biggest Go Karting single races in Australia. Ryan competed against 24 of the best go-karters from all over Australia in his class KA3 Junior and finished in 2nd place.

Social Justice News

Characteristics of the homeless population

A few interesting characteristics of the total homeless population in Australia:

• Males made up 58% of the homeless and females 42%. Males outnumbered females in every category, but particularly rough sleepers (66%) and boarding house residents (73%) - This sex difference was mainly among the older population.
• Young people under 18, homelessness was about 50%-50% male-female
• The highest rate of homelessness was in the 19-24yrs age group

Homeless numbers in our Local Area (statistics from 2016 Census)

• Melton – 68 people
• Melton West – 46 people
• Melton South – 57 people
• Bacchus Marsh – 56 people
• Bacchus Marsh outer region – 8 people
• Rockbank – 13 people

This is a total of 248 homeless people on any given night in our local area. These are people that, as a result of circumstances (not choice), have nowhere to call home.

If you want to make a difference to the lives of others and you can’t come to the CRC Annual Winter Sleepout, make a donation at the front office or online at: 

http://VinniesSchoolSleepout.gofundraise.com.au/page/CatholicRegionalCollegeMelton.

Enquiries can be sent to –mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au.

Are you thinking of becoming a Catholic?

A guided faith journey towards becoming a Catholic.

WHO IS R.C.I.A. for?

• Adults who are not Baptised
• Adults who are already Baptised in another Christian Church
• Non-practicing Catholics who wish to renew their faith

If you are interested, the Parish of Melton will be holding an information evening at St Catherines of Siena Church on Tuesday 11th September at 7:30pm. If you would like to attend, please contact the Parish office on 9743 6515 or email melton@cam.org.au.

Weekly Reflection

Great Spirit Prayer

Oh, Great Spirit, whose voice I hear in the wind,

Whose breath gives life to all the world.

Hear me; I need your strength and wisdom.

Let me walk in beauty, and make my eyes ever behold the red and purple sunset.

Make my hands respect the things you have made and my ears sharp to hear your voice

Make me wise so that I may understand the things you have taught my people.

Help me to remain calm and strong in the face of all that comes towards me.

Let me learn the lessons you have hidden in every leaf and rock.

Help me seek pure thoughts and act with the intention of helping others.

Help me find compassion without empathy overwhelming me.

I seek strength, not to be greater than my brother, but to fight my greatest enemy myself.

Make me always ready to come to you with clean hands and straight eyes.

So when life fades, as the fading sunset, my spirit may come to you without shame.

From the Principal

The Greatest Showman

Well, what a production we enjoyed last week. It had everything from an original script written by Jessica Godwell, outstanding acting, singing and dancing. The costumes, props and lighting were first class, and those families who had seen many productions over the years commented it was one of the best performances ever.

Special thanks to Jessica Godwell, Amy Rowley, Shanelle Sertic, Alison Andrada, Ashlee Hughes, Karina Dunne, Amy Bandeira, Dan Askew, Rebecca Cassar and Lauren Whitford for putting a remarkable show together.

For those families who could not make it, I leave you with excerpts from two of the standout songs from the Greatest Showman. From my perspective as Principal, any song, speech or campaign that reinforces the power of positive thoughts and self-talk as I heard in ‘This Is Me’ and the imagery of dreaming ‘the brightest colors fill my head’ from ‘A Million Dreams’ are priceless for our teenagers to hear and be inspired by. These themes are not just for our students - those two songs are on my current playlist inspiring me on my journey!

This Is Me

When the sharpest words wanna cut me down
I'm gonna send a flood, gonna drown them out
I am brave, I am bruised
I am who I'm meant to be, this is me
Look out 'cause here I come
And I'm marching on to the beat I drum
I'm not scared to be seen
I make no apologies, this is me

A Million Dreams

'Cause every night I lie in bed
The brightest colors fill my head
A million dreams are keeping me awake
I think of what the world could be
A vision of the one I see
A million dreams is all it's gonna take
A million dreams for the world we're gonna make

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

Year 10 and Year 11 students need to finalise their 2019 Subject Selections by the end of next week with their final selection page (from Selection Guide) and copy of their WebPreferences receipt due Friday, August 10.  Please ensure these are submitted on time as late submissions may result in subject preferences being missed as VCE numbers will then be processed and initial blockings completed.  Students will be given their initial allocations later in the term.  VCAL students will also be notified if their application has been successful.

Year 9 students and parents/guardians are invited to join us next Wednesday, August 8 for our Year 10 2019 Information Evening.  I strongly encourage all families to attend as the Year 10 Elective selections are by far the most complicated of all year levels.

2019 Term Dates

To assist families in planning for next year, below are our 2019 Term dates for students:

Term 1

Year 7 – 12 Classes begin: Monday, 4th February

Term finishes: Thursday, 4th April 

Term 2

Classes begin: Tuesday, 23rd April

Year 10 Work Experience: 24th – 28th June

Classes finish: Friday, 28th June

 Term 3

Classes Start: Monday, 15th July

Term finishes: Thursday, 19th September

 Term 4

Classes Start: Monday, 7th October

Year 12 VCAA exams finish: Wednesday, 20th November

Year 11 & 10 students finish: Friday, 29th November

Year 7 – 9 students finish: Friday, 6th December

Time to Shine

Over the past 11 months, Lana Sciberras and myself along with hundreds of other Victorian Catholic School students across the state have been rehearsing for the Time To Shine performances at the Melbourne State Theatre. The performance itself showcases the amazing talents of singers and dancers from Years 7 to 12 . Over the 11 months we worked with a vocal coach by the name of Greg Mills, as well as many experienced dance teachers. I personally found this opportunity to share my talent with others to be an amazing one and when the chance comes around again I will be sure to audition once more. To be able to perform in front of a crowd of 2,000 people was an extraordinary experience that I look forward to doing again soon.

Volleyball Victoria 3 Day Schools Cup

CRC Melton sent a team to participate in the Year 12 Division of Volleyball Victoria 3 Day Schools Cup on Friday, Saturday and Sunday last weekend. Despite entering the Year 12 competition, the team comprised of girls from Years 9, 10, 11 and 12. As such, the team lacked the size and experience of the other teams.

This did not prevent the girls from competing strongly in every game. They managed to win a set against the teams who finished 2nd and 3rd, and won two games by two sets to nil.

Overall, the girls won 6 sets and lost 8, and won 263 points, losing 271 points. This highlights how close and even the competition was and how our team remained competitive throughout.

This group of girls are to be congratulated for their dedication (training after school and over the holidays) and their spirit in coming up against bigger and stronger teams but not flinching at all. Their cooperation and effort was first class.

Our thanks to the parents who helped get the girls all the way out to the State Volleyball Centre, Dandenong for the competition.

The team: Alexandra Della-Rocca (10), Sarah Elander (10), Anglena Koj (12), Regina Laumata (9), Cheyanne Llanes (12), Bagena Malua (9), Phillipa Malua (11), Amberlynn Menezes (11), Kristen Pereira (10), Danielle Sultana (12)

LOTE News

It is with great excitement that we acknowledge our finalists for the Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition at the University of Melbourne and the winner for third prize, Ethan Trethowan in Year 12. Congratulations to the following students who made it as finalists on Friday 20th July:

• Annmayria Praveen John - Yr11
• Adelaide Hansen - Year 11
• Ashley Scicluna - Year 11
• Maria Arbizu Duran - Year 11
• Sofia Bagnato - Year 10
• Tania Cariolo - Year 9
• Ayla Williams - Year 9

They will be awarded their certificates and prizes at our next school assembly.

We also welcome Giuliana Lucci, an exchange student from Italy who is staying with Adelaide Hansen's family. We thank the Hansen family for hosting Giuliana. If you would like to host an Italian student next year in July please contact Mrs. Claudia Russo at the school.

Sports News

Western Bulldogs Next Generation Academy

Over the July school holidays, Amber Mifsud was selected to try out for the Ballarat/Wimmera/Hampden/Western District team to compete at the V/Line Cup Carnival, to be held in Gippsland in September holidays.  The V/Line Cup Carnival is an Under 16 AFLW tournament that sees teams from all districts in Victoria compete against each other.  Amber was successful in making the Ballart/Wimmera/Hampden/Western District team which is associated with the Western Bulldogs Next Generation Academy, which is an academy that recognises girls who have potentional to play AFLW.

Social Justice

Characteristics of the homeless population

A few interesting characteristics of the total homeless population in Australia:

• Males made up 58% of the homeless and females 42%. Males outnumbered females in every category, but particularly rough sleepers (66%) and boarding house residents (73%).
• This sex difference was mainly among the older population.
• Young people under 18, homelessness was about 50%-50% male-female.
• The highest rate of homelessness was in the 19-24yrs age group

Homeless numbers in our Local Area

(statistics from 2016 Census)

Melton – 68 people

Melton West – 46 people

Melton South – 57 people

Bacchus Marsh – 56 people

Bacchus Marsh outer region – 8 people

Rockbank – 13 people

Total – 248 people homeless on any given night in the local area. These are people that, as a result of circumstances, not choice, have nowhere to call home.

The major cause for homelessness is domestic violence. 

If you want to make a difference to the lives of others, come along to the CRC Annual Winter Sleepout.

Friday August 10th  6.45pm – Saturday 7.00am

There will be guest presenters and lots of activities.

Dinner and breakfast will be provided.

Email – mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au to indicate your intentions.

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, and that the oppressed will be set free." Luke 4:18

WILL YOU BRING GOOD NEWS TO THE POOR?      WILL YOU SET THE OPPRESSED FREE?

Worlds Greatest Shave

When: Friday 17th August, lunchtime

What: Shave your head or colour your hair

Cost: Temporary colour - $2.00

Where: Outside the Hall

“I have decided to do The World’s Greatest Shave to raise funds for research for Leukaemia - blood cancer. I myself, don’t have any personal stories but there are many others who have either experienced loss or suffered from blood cancers such as Leukaemia. By shaving my hair, I am showing my support for the victims of this awful illness” - Cassandra Nguyen

You can donate to Cassandra by clicking the following link: http://my.leukaemiafoundation.org.au/crcmelton

For over 30 years, Wigs for Kids have been providing Wigs and support for children who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, burns and other medical issues. Wigs for Kids helps children suffering from hairloss look themselves and live their lives. Because we never charge families for wigs, we depend on generous people like you to donate hair for sufferers.

Wigs for Kids accept hair donations 30cms or longer. The more length you can donate, the more of an impact you will make. Mrs. Bourke is looking for someone to cut her hair to dontate to the cause. When you donate $1 dollar, you get a raffle ticket to go into the draw to be the one who cuts it. The more you donate, the more raffle tickets you get. If you are interested in taking part and donating your hair speak to Mrs Bourke or Ms Rowe-Watts or email nbourke@crcmelton.com.au or mrowe-watts@crcmelton.com.au.

Weekly Reflection

Dear Lord, I pray today that I will yield my spirit completely to You, that You may use me as You please.

I pray that You will provide me opportunities to show people how much You mean to me.

Give me discretion to know what to say and how to say it.

Make me bold enough, that I may proclaim salvation cheerfully and joyfully.

I pray that the seeds You allow me to plant will grow and mature.

I pray that You, Father, will water the seeds that You allow me to plant today. I am forever grateful for the cross; may I proclaim it in a contagious way today.

Amen.

“Do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

Luke 12:11b-12

From the Principal

Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition

It is with great pleasure that we announce our School Captain, Ethan Trethowan, has been awarded third prize (Terzo Premio) in the prestigious Dante Alighieri Italian Poetry Competition at the University of Melbourne. Ethan competed against 4000 students who recited their chosen poem. This is a wonderful achievement and the entire CRC school community is very proud of him. Bravissimo Ethan! Tanti auguri.

Staffing

Unfortunately we say good-bye to Sister Mary Rachel, who has been appointed to a Senior role in Nashville at the Provincial House, and Sister Anastasia. We welcome Sister Mary Sarah in their place.

We also farewell Mr Peter Drew, our Property Manager. Peter has had a long association with the College as parent, grandparent and staff member. We wish him well in his retirement. Mr Martin Turner (also a past parent) will take over the role and we warmly welcome him.

Staff Proffessional Learning Day

Last Friday 250 staff from the CRC Colleges heard from renowned Theologian Fr Timothy Radcliffe OP. Fr Timothy is a Dominican friar of the English Province, and former Master of the Order of Preachers from 1992-2001. In 2003, Fr Timothy was made an honorary Doctor of Divinity in the University of Oxford, the University's highest honorary degree. He was the 2007 winner of the Michael Ramsey Prize for theological writing for his book ‘What Is the Point of Being A Christian?’. In 2015 Fr Timothy was named a consultor to the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace.

Fr Timothy had an audience with Pope Francis last year where he engaged our Pope on a range of issues in the Church today. He is a highly sought after speaker, teaching and preaching in many countries around the world. In his presentation on Friday, he spoke about ‘Christian leadership in the light of the parable of the Prodigal Son’ and ‘Can we all feel at home in the Church?’.

From the Deputy Principal - Students

Resilience Project Student Workshop

Last week Martin Heppell from the Resilience Project was at the College to present workshops to all the students as a follow up to the parent and staff presentations made last term. Martin spoke of the values and importance of gratitude, empathy and mindfulness.

Martin asked the students to acknowledge someone else and to do something kind. It was good to witness students shaking hands, giving high fives or hugs to others, there was a good buzz across the hall. As Martin said to them, everytime you do something kind for someone else, your brain releases oxytocin, which leads to increased self-esteem, energy, happiness and positivity.

Martin shared recent statistics on mental health. “With one in four adolescents having a mental illness in today’s society and one in three girls and one in five boys suffering from an anxiety disorder, the need for guidance and direction is essential, the most poignant figure provided by Martin, was 65% of adolescents do not seek help for mental illness. His message was talk to someone.

Martin said the key word is “failure”, that is, how you as students develop resilience. If you don’t know "failure" how do you learn to deal with failure? Follow up activities are happening over the coming weeks during pastoral care periods with the student’s homeroom teachers.

College Captains Madalyn McGill and Ethan Trethowan on behalf of all the students presented Martin with a cheque of $3,417.45 from the amount raised on Celebration Day to support the work of Save the Children in the Solomon Islands. He was overwhelmed with the generosity and empathy shown by our school community.

Full School Assembly

At the assembly last week certificates were presented to those students successful in the recent writing competition, a full version of the stories can be found on the links below. Also the Slam Poetry competition winner Year 8 student Heather Petelo read her poem Expectations vs. Reality to the student audience to a rousing round of applause.

School Spirit Awards

Year 7 - Tahla Ward & Francis Sepe

Tahla is a friendly, optimistic, helpful and studious member of 7B. She is selfless, caring, respectful and encouraging to other students in her class. She is always looking for new ways to improve her work. She is courteous to staff and peers and demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities at camp. Her kindness, compassion and willingness to help others are qualities that should be admired.

Francis is a conscientious and hard-working student.  She is a positive and motivated member of 7M. She shows initiative, works hard in class and contributes positively to classroom discussions. She is personable and has established good relationships with both her teachers and her peers and is a positive role model for other students. 

Year 8 - Hayley Ferris & Nathan Furtado

Hayley is a student who is always punctual to class, completes all set work to the best of her ability and is kind, compassionate and hard-working. She is a very respectful and polite person who possesses a friendly nature.

Nathan is currently achieving high grades in all subject areas. He is a popular and respected member of the Year 8 cohort who always demonstrates a high work ethic and commitment to study across a range of subjects.

Year 9 - Bagena Malua & Isaac Peramuna

Bagena only started at CRC at the start of the year. Her teachers praise her maturity and her positive participation and contribution to all her classes. Bagena interacts well with her peers and teachers, not only sharing a great sense of humour with them, but she is also very kind, and always willing to help and support others.

Issac was nominated by his teachers for a variety of reasons. He is a mature student who is courteous and respectful to both students and staff. Isaac is a student who just ‘gets it done’ and is an example of how a student can balance extra curricular activities, personal life and school.

Year 10 - Ivana Giannakoulis & Tileah Downs

Ivana has demonstrated an excellent work ethic throughout the year. She has been actively involved in both swimming and athletics carnivals, the Year 7 Peer Support Program, camp and Reconciliation Week. Ivana has assisted in numerous NAIDOC week activities around the school. Being a member of the School Representative Council for 2018 has provided her with the opportunity to develop her leadership skills where she has proven to be a positive role model amongst her peers.

Tileah has proven to be a diligent worker managing to successfully balance her academic demands with the extra-curricular activities she has been involved in. A valued member of the school Showcase Tileah has established sound leadership capabilities by assisting and supporting teachers and students in dance performances. Furthermore, she demonstrated maturity by actively participating in all aspects of the recent Geography Camp, which culminated in an excellent result for the subsequent written report.

Year 11 - Alexandra MacDowell & Ashley Scicluna

Alexandra is a quiet achiever who strives to always do her best. She seeks help when needed and scores well on her SAC's. Alex displays maturity and enthusiasm and always seeks teacher feedback to clarify content. She is always working to improve herself and do better. She initiates strategies for personal improvement coupled with an excellent work ethic.

Ashley is highly motivated and works well both independently and with her peers. She continues to strive for higher grades and goes beyond what is required of her. Her marks are exceptionally high and she is always willing to help her peers. Ashley wears her uniform with pride and is an exemplary role model for the Year 11 cohort. Her teachers describe her as the hardest worker they've ever met.

Year 12 - Danielle Sultana & Anglena Koj

Danielle was nominated by various staff members due to her diligent work ethic and active participation in College activities, especially SACCS Girls AFL. Danielle is always happy, courteous to both her peers and staff and always works hard in her classes. Danielle is a student who demonstrates the values of the College and what the School Spirit stands for.

Anglena has shown a positive growth in maturity over the years. In the past year she has become a responsible and organised young woman who takes her studies seriously, who strives for high marks, who asks questions and willingly engages in the classroom. She demonstrates strong organisational skills and commitment to her school work. Her performance in her vocational education suggests that she will have great success in the medical field. In spite of a lengthy commute to school and her work commitments, Anglena finds the time to be an inspirational role model to younger African female students through the Big Sister mentoring programme. She is highly respected by her peers and is a sound role model to the younger students whom she spends time with and who trust her.

Rob Blackley

Deputy Principal - Students

Driftwood by Hayley Ferris.pdf
Focus by Khallea Vanguardia.pdf
The Ties that Bind Us by Luke O'Brien.pdf
The Tragedy at the Plant by Nathan Furtado.pdf
Show Me Your Scars by Sarah Clewer.pdf

From the Deputy Principal - Staff

2019 Subject Selections

Year 10 and 11 students continue with their 2019 Subject Selections. Our 2019 Year 11 Subject Selection process involves family interviews next Tuesday 31st July. I hope to see many parents and guardians take the opportunity to be involved with their child’s selections, as in previous year’s these conversations has been extremely valuable.

Current Year 9 students and parents/guardians are invited to join us on Wednesday 8th August for our Year 10, 2019 Information Evening.

Semester Two Subject Changes

All Year 9 and 10 Elective changes for Semester Two have been finalised.

NAIDOC Week Celebrations